Abstracts - Facilities and equipment

The current study presents an algorithm that extracts novel, objective structural conformation traits and reports corresponding genetic and phenotypic parameters.

The proposed framework enabled reliable tracking of group-housed pigs for extended periods, offering a promising alternative to the independent use of image or RFID approaches alone.

Data suggest that sows fed ad libitum eat what they need and can convert feed more efficiently into the piglets’ growth without additional weight loss.

Trial runs were conducted in winter and summer to compare five deep-litter bedding materials.

Nondestructive prediction of the quality properties of pork butts can be achieved using hyperspectral images obtained from the semispinalis capitis muscle.

A framework for monitoring feeding behavior of grow-finish pigs in real time, using a low-frequency radio frequency identification system.

Combining vulva volume features with days from weaning could be a suitable method to detect the onset of oestrous in sows.

Findings suggest that the choice of point enrichment object can influence the level of interaction, level of interest over time, activity level, and skin lesions in growing pigs.

This study investigates the potential of teaching gestating sows an individual sound signal to reduce aggression resulting from competition for feed access.

This study proves the accuracy of accelerometer-based sow lying behavior classification and shows that free-farrowing systems benefit lactating sows.

An added aroma increased pigs’ exploration behaviour towards the foam, and thus could serve as a distraction when inside a confined foam box.

This study confirmed the hematogenous transmission of African Swine Fever virus between pigs through needle-sharing.

Models provide daily infection probabilities that can be used as a benchmark to more timely support preventive and control strategies on farms.

A new classification of ASFV based on comparisons performed considering the entire encoded proteome.

Findings suggest physical capacity is not the only factor influencing processing rates and highlight existing vulnerabilities to labor shortages.

The composting process can be an efficient strategy for mitigating the spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment.

Frequent emission of short sounds can reduce time spent sleeping and cause behavior changes. However, gestating sows can habituate to the sound stimuli and return to normal behavior.

Results suggested that farrowing pens with temporary crating facilitated mother-young interactions and showed a higher crushing rate.

Environmental enrichment with cubes appears to have the greatest effect when applied post-weaning whereas flavor attractants appear to have the greatest effect when applied both pre- and post-weaning.

The funnel slurry system can lower emissions of both ammonia, odour and methane.

Results demonstrate that ASFV-like nucleocytoplasmic large DNA viruses can retain viability in swine feed matrices during long-term transport across the continental United States.

Effects on trailer microclimate, pig behaviour, physiological response, and meat quality under Canadian summer conditions.

This technology could benefit commercial pig production while providing an enriched behavioral environment.

The jute material and piglet nests positively impacted sow welfare and piglet measures but did not translate into improved piglet survival.