bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
192 Towards Year-Round Grazing in the Southeastern U.S
Authors: Pent Gabe J
Published: November 2020

Winter feeds costs for small ruminants exceeds 50% of the total cost of most small ruminant production systems in the Southeastern U.S. Keeping these feed costs low is one of the most effective and time-tested ways to improve farm profitability. While maintaining an appropriate stocking rate will be critical for sustaining long-term farm productivity, a suite of other management practices is available to assist in this objective. Installing appropriate fence and watering system infrastructure for managing grazing will be critical for improving harvest efficiency and stockpiling forages for utilization when forage growth is limited. Filling gaps in forage production may also be achieved through the strategic use of a number of forage species, including warm-season or cool-season forages and annual or perennial forages. Managing stored forages appropriately during storing and feeding will help minimize feed losses, while producing quality hay will reduce the need for supplementary feeds. With the adoption of these proven practices, sheep and goat production may be optimized by allowing them to harvest their own feed almost year-round in the Southeastern U.S.
193 Growth performance of lambs and kids on pasture
Authors: Schoenian Susan
Published: November 2020

There are different methods for growing and finishing lambs and kids. A high percentage of lambs are finished on concentrate diets. At the same time, there is a growing demand for grass-fed meat. Grass-fed meat usually has a more healthful fatty acid profile. The gains obtained on pasture are often more economical. However, there are also challenges to raising lambs and kids on pasture. Performance (ADG and BCS) can be poor, due to seasonal fluctuations in pasture quality (and quantify), poor grazing practices, and heavy burdens of gastro-intestinal parasites (worms). Raising lambs and kids profitably on pasture requires strategies that provide excellent nutrition and minimize the impact of parasites, while meeting the desires of today’s consumers.
198 Beef cattle support system modeling
Authors: White Robin R
Published: November 2020

A model is a tool used to study the dynamics of a system when investigations on the system itself are difficult because of scope, scale, sensitivity, or other complexities. Beef cattle production in the United States is at least a 2- to 4-phase process, consisting of economic, social, environmental, and biological relationships. As such, modeling is a logical strategy to handle many research questions focused on systems responses of beef cattle production systems. There are a number of modeling tools that can be used to research beef cattle production settings, including but not limited to: nutrient requirement models, pasture models, farm system models, and life cycle assessments. Life cycle assessments are the broadest category of models and typically fall under the umbrella of static, deterministic, empirical models that encompass the entirety of the beef production system from manufacture of the inputs through production of the outputs. There are a number of life cycle assessments of beef cattle production systems and comparison of the outcome of these models is a strategy to discern how changes in one aspect of the production system affect all downstream processes. Farm system models can assess an individual economic enterprise or an entirety of a beef production system and typically are dynamic, mechanistic models of the interactions between cattle and their external environments. Several researchers have also established deterministic, empirical farm system models, or hybrids of these two model types. Pasture models can be independent of or tightly linked with farm system models. Most pasture models are dynamic, mechanistic models; however, deterministic, empirical models also exist. Pasture models typically seek to model plant/soil/water interactions. Finally, animal response models and nutrient requirement models can be used to represent animal/feed/management interactions. These models can be dynamic or static, deterministic or mechanistic.
43 Effect of Mushroom Probiotic (Coriolus Versicolor) on Galectin Gene Secretion in Goat Blood
Authors: Ekwemalor Kingsley E , Asiamah Emmanuel K , Adjei-Fremah Sarah , ElukaOkoludoh Eboghoye , Worku Mulumebet
Published: November 2020

Galectins (GAL) constitute an evolutionarily conserved family of β-galactoside-binding proteins that are secreted. They are involved in the regulation of homeostasis, innate and adaptive immune responses to infectious challenge. The mushroom Coriolus versicolor (CV) has been reported to boost suppressed immune function, extending the survival rate and improving quality of life in man. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of mushroom probiotics on the secretion of Galectins in goat blood. Ten BoerXSpanish female goats (5 weeks of age) were used for this study. Powdered CV was soaked in cold water and sterile filtered. Following initial screening for infection, goats were assigned to two groups of five (n = 10). Goats were drenched daily with 10 mL cold (treatment I) extract for 4 weeks. A control group of five age-matched goats received sterile water (treatment II). Blood samples were collected on a weekly basis. The concentration plasma protein was determined by using Pierce BCA kit (Thermo Scientific Pierce, Rockford, IL). Galectins-1, -3, -8, -9 and -12 concentration was detected by using a commercial ELISA kits (ABclonal Biotechnology, Woburn, MA). There was an effect of treatment in total plasma protein concentration when compared to the control group (P < 0.02). Galectins tested were secreted in both control and treatment groups. Treatment with CV decreased the concentration of Gal-1, 8 and 9 and increased the concentration of Gal-3 and -12 (P < 0.05). Results from this study indicate that mushroom probiotics can modulate the secretion of GAL.
177 Use of diatomaceous earth and copper oxide wire particles to control gastrointestinal nematodes in lambs
Authors: Jones Olivia , Burke Joan M , Miller James E , Rosenkrans Charles
Published: November 2020

Anthelmintic resistance urges alternatives to control gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN). Copper oxide wire particles (COWP) are more efficacious when used with dewormers and little is known on efficacy of diatomaceous earth (DE) to control GIN. The objective was to examine the effects of DE and COWP on GIN control. Katahdin lambs (n = 32; ~150 d of age; 25.0 ± 1.8 kg) were randomly assigned to receive: 1) 2% dietary DE, 2) 1g COWP, 3) both 2% DE and 1g COWP, and 4) neither DE or COWP. Feces and blood were collected on d 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 to determine fecal egg counts (FEC) and blood packed cell volume (PCV). Feces were cultured to determine GIN genera. FEC were log transformed; data were analyzed as a 2 x 2 factorial using proc mixed with day as repeated (SAS). There was a mixed GIN population including 58% Haemonchus contortus and 30% Trichostrongylus spp. FEC tended to be lower by d 28 in DE (175 eggs/g) than no DE (753 eggs/g) fed lambs (P = 0.09), but in general, were relatively low and no other differences among treatments detected. PCV tended to be higher in COWP than no COWP lambs by d 28 (P = 0.10), and no other differences detected. In conclusion, during a low GIN challenge, there may have been a small effect of DE on FEC but no advantage was observed in combination treatment.
96 Impact of daily movement with low or higher target residue on ewe weight gain and parasite infestation
Authors: Kukor-Laureano Isabella , Van Buren Izzy , Daniel Jay A
Published: November 2020

Impact of grazing method on ewe performance, parasite infestation, and soil, was examined using mature, non-lactating Katahdin ewes. Pasture consisting of primarily common bermudagrass/crabgrass mixture previously grazed by sheep was divided into four, approximately one acre paddocks (two with a target of 3 cm residue [SR; short residue) and two with a target of 13 cm residue (LR; long residue)] and soil sampled. On May 17 (d 0), 5 ewes were placed on each paddock and provided with daily grazing allocation using temporary electric fence. Body weight and fecal egg count (FEC) was recorded biweekly beginning on d 0. On alternate weeks, ewe body condition score (BCS) and FAMACHA score was recorded. After 84 days of grazing, final data and soil samples were collected. BCS, FAMACHA, FEC, body weight, and soil test results were tested for effect of treatment (SR vs LR), day, and treatment by day interaction using procedures for repeated measures with JMP software (version 10, SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). There was an effect of treatment (P = 0.0345) and day (P < 0.0001) on BCS such that BCS was greater for LR than SR, and d 63 and 77 was greater than 35 and 49. There was an effect of day on body weight (P = 0.0008) such that body weights were greater on d 70 and 84 than d 0, 14, and 28. There was a tendency for a treatment by day interaction (P = 0.0766) on FEC such that FEC was greater for SR on d 70 and 84 than all other treatment days except SR on d 56 and LR on d 0. No effects on FAMACHA score or soil parameters were significant. These data indicate daily rotation with a higher target residue can result in improved body condition and lower FEC.
26 Copper oxide wire particles to complement control of gastrointestinal nematodes with levamisole and/or albendazole in lambs
Authors: Burke Joan M , Miller James E , Acharya Mohan , Wood Erin
Published: November 2020

Due to high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance (AR), complementary approaches to anthelmintic use to control gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) in sheep are necessary. Copper oxide wire particles (COWP) are effective against Haemonchus contortus but not other GIN, and FAMACHA aids to minimize further development of AR. The objective was to determine the efficacy of COWP alone or in combination with levamisole, albendazole, or a 3-way combination to control GIN known to have AR to these anthelmintics. Naturally infected Katahdin lambs were selectively dewormed based on FAMACHA© and/or packed cell volume (PCV). If FAMACHA© scores were 3, 4, or 5, lambs received 1 g COWP alone (n = 120), COWP and levamisole (n = 47) or albendazole (n = 6), or a 3-way combination (n = 10), respectively. Untreated lambs were included (CON; n = 31). Feces and blood were collected on days 0 (day of deworming) and 14 for determination of fecal egg counts (FEC) and FEC reduction (FECRED) and PCV. Data were analyzed using repeated measures in a mixed model. The mean FECRED was greater for the combination of levamisole and COWP than COWP alone (P < 0.001). In a mixed GIN population, COWP in combination with levamisole increased the efficacy of FECRED of H. contortus and other GIN genera present, offering greater GIN management in the presence of resistance to these anthelmintics.
142 Reproductive performance of land race hair sheep ewes in different breeding seasons under a semi-continuous production
Authors: Wildeus Stephan , O’Brien Dahlia
Published: November 2020

A system for semi-continuous lamb production was evaluated using Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix hair sheep ewes under 8-mo accelerated mating. Ewes were managed in a forage-based production system using rotational grazing. Two flocks of ewes (n = 30–35), equally representing the breeds, were bred 4 mo apart. Ewes were synchronized by feeding melengestrol acetate for 10 d, and mated in two single sire groups to like breed sires in November (NOV), March (MAR), and July (JUL) in a 25-d mating period. Pregnancy was recorded by transrectal ultrasound 22 d after breeding. Ewes were supplemented with corn/soybean meal during late gestation (0.75% of BW) and during lactation (1.5% of BW). They lambed on pasture with limited supervision, and lambs were weaned at 2 mo of age. Lambs had access to the supplement provided to ewes. Ewe performance (pregnancy rate, litter size, lamb survival, and birth and weaning weight) was recorded during a 2 yr production cycle, and analyzed for the effect of mating season. Pregnancy rate was not statistically different (P > 0.1) between season, and ranged from 93.9% in NOV, to 85.9 and 86.6% in MAR and JUL. Litter size (lambs born/ewe lambing) was higher (P < 0.05) in NOV (2.09) than MAR (1.68) and JUL (1.82). Lamb survival at birth was reduced (P < 0.001) in JUL (86.5%) compared to NOV (99%) and MAR (100 %), but was not different between seasons for survival to weaning (86 to 90%). Lamb birth weights were higher (P < 0.05) in MAR (3.16 kg) than JUL (2.99 kg), with NOV (3.05 kg) intermediate, while lamb weaning weights were higher (P < 0.001) in NOV (13.6 kg) compared with MAR (11.9 kg) and JUL (11.4 kg) mating. Data suggest that dual flock, accelerated mating of landrace hair sheep ewes can produce lamb cohorts of similar size in 4 mo intervals under a low-input, forage-based production system.
141 Reproductive characteristics of post-pubertal lambs after being rendered short scrotum
Authors: O’Brien Dahlia , Wildeus Stephan , Schoenian Susan , Perdue Maegan
Published: November 2020

A follow-up study was conducted to validate observations from an earlier trial on reproductive function in ram lambs following short scrotum castration. Again, East Friesian x Lacaune male dairy lambs from a commercial sheep dairy born in February and March were either left intact (IN, n=25), rendered short-scrotum (SS; n=18), or completely banded (WE; n=25) within 10 d of birth. At a mean age of 65 d, lambs were moved to the study site and managed as one group on cool season forages and supplemented with grain at 2–3% BW. At a mean age of 172 d, lambs were tested for libido in a 5 min pen test, and semen was collected from 7 IN and 7 SS lambs. Four estrus-induced teaser ewes were used for libido testing and semen collection by artificial vagina. Lambs were harvested the day after testing/collection, and reproductive tracts were recovered from 5 IN and 5 SS lambs at random. Differences between male lamb types were analyzed using PROC GLM. No statistical differences (P >0.05) in reproductive behaviors were observed between IN and SS, though number of services and kicks were numerically higher in IN than SS (1.3 vs. 0.45; 1.6 vs. 0.73). No reproductive behaviors was observed in WE. Ejaculate volume was not different between IN and SS (0.56 vs. 0.49 ml), but percent motile sperm (45 vs. 6 %; P< 0.01) and sperm concentration (1.52 vs. 0.05 billion/ml; P< 0.05) were higher in IN then SS lambs. Total testis and epididymis weight were also higher (P< 0.01) in IN than SS lambs (291 vs. 109 g; 53.8 g vs. 17.7 g). Additionally, epididymal sperm reserves were higher (P< 0.05) in IN than SS (9.42 vs. 0.89 billion) lambs. Results confirm our earlier findings that reproductive function was greatly reduced, but did not cease in short scrotum ram lambs.
95 Impact of daily movement with low or higher target residue on ewe weight gain and parasite infestation
Authors: Kukor-Laureano Isabella , Van Buren Izzy , Daniel Jay A
Published: November 2020

Impact of grazing method on ewe performance, parasite infestation, and soil, was examined using mature, non-lactating Katahdin ewes. Pasture consisting of primarily common bermudagrass/crabgrass mixture previously grazed by sheep was divided into four, approximately one acre paddocks [two with a target of 3 cm residue (SR; short residue) and two with a target of 13 cm residue (LR; long residue)] and soil sampled. On May 17 (d 0), 5 ewes were placed on each paddock and provided with daily grazing allocation using temporary electric fence. Body weight and fecal egg count (FEC) was recorded biweekly beginning on d 0. On alternate weeks, ewe body condition score (BCS) and FAMACHA score was recorded. After 84 days of grazing, final data and soil samples were collected. BCS, FAMACHA, FEC, body weight, and soil test results were tested for effect of treatment (SR vs LR), day, and treatment by day interaction using procedures for repeated measures with JMP software (version 10, SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). There was an effect of treatment (P = 0.0345) and day (P < 0.0001) on BCS such that BCS was greater for LR than SR, and d 63 and 77 was greater than 35 and 49. There was an effect of day on body weight (P = 0.0008) such that body weights were greater on d 70 and 84 than d 0, 14, and 28. There was a tendency for a treatment by day interaction (P = 0.0766) on FEC such that FEC was greater for SR on d 70 and 84 than all other treatment days except SR on d 56 and LR on d 0. No effects on FAMACHA score or soil parameters were significant. These data indicate daily rotation with a higher target residue can result in improved body condition and lower FEC.
175 The Suitability of Autoclave and Pressure Cooker Washing Methods in Comparison to ANKOM200 to Determine Neutral Detergent Fiber Using Different Feedstuffs and Washing Solutions
Authors: Adams Jordan , Norris Aaron B , Rivera Madeline E , Batista Luiz Fernando Dias , Tedeschi Luis O
Published: November 2020

The use of the in vitro gas production (IVGP) technique requires accurate determination of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) residue. However, the NDF determination using standard procedures are not always feasible for IVGP; thus requiring micro-NDF methods, which need autoclave (AC) and pressure cooker (PC) to boil the solution. A complete randomized design using a 3×3 factorial arrangement was implemented to investigate the effect of washing methods (WM: AC, PC, or ANKOM200) and solution ratios (WS: 100 mL neutral detergent solution (ND), 150 mL ND, or 100 mL H2O/g sample) to determine NDF residues, assuming ANKOM200 and 100 mL ND/g as the standard methodology. Each factor combination was performed in triplicate with a replicate being comprised of 12 bottles or bags (two blanks and five feedstuffs in duplicate). Feedstuffs were: alfalfa hay (AH), bermudagrass hay (BH), two high-forage rations (G1 and G2), and a high-concentrate ration (FR). Following each run, bottles were filtered to obtain the NDF. Data were analyzed by diet using a random coefficients model. An interaction of WM ′ WS was present for AH and G1 (P < 0.01), G2 and FR had tendencies (P = 0.08 and 0.06, respectively), whereas BH demonstrated no interaction (P = 0.37). The PC with 100 mL or 150 mL did not differ from the standard methodology for AH, G1, G2, and FR. The BH demonstrated differences between WM and WS (P < 0.01). The PC had lower NDF residue compared to the AC and ANKOM200, whereas H2O had substantially greater NDF residue relative to both ND ratios. We concluded that H2O is not a suitable substitute for ND solution regardless of the feedstuff. Both micro-NDF washing methods may be satisfactory depending on the type of feedstuff used but further investigation is required.
60 Effects of exogenous glucocorticoid administration on leptin concentrations in perinatal dairy bull calves
Authors: Morris Camille , McCarty Keelee J , Long Nathan
Published: November 2020

Previous studies suggest a relationship between leptin and cortisol immediately postpartum is linked to improved feedlot efficiency on cattle exposed to perinatal stressors. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of exogenous cortisol administration on circulating leptin concentrations in perinatal dairy bull calves. Within four hours of parturition, Holstein bull calves were randomly assigned to treatments and intravenously infused with low cortisol (LC; n =9, 3.5 ug/kg of cortisol), high cortisol (HC; n = 9, 7.0 ug/kg of cortisol), or a sham infusion control (CON; n = 9, similar volume of saline). Calves were housed similarly and fed milk replacer (28% CP, 20% fat) three times daily. Blood collections were performed via jugular venipuncture using Z/9mL serum collection tubes (Sarstedt, Newton, NC) from d 0 to 5 of age. Serum samples were incubated for 1 h at room temperature then overnight at 4°C, centrifuged at 1800 x g at 4°C for 20 minutes, serum decanted, and stored long term at -20°C until analysis. At 5 d of age, calves were euthanized utilizing an overdose of sodium pentobarbital (Schering-Plough Animal Health, Union, NJ) and cerebral-spinal fluid (CSF) from the third ventricle of the brain was collected and stored at -80°C until analysis. All samples were analyzed for leptin concentrations via a previously-validated radioimmunoassay. Serum leptin concentrations were analyzed via repeated measures of ANOVA and CSF leptin concentrations via the GLM procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). Serum leptin concentrations of HC and LC were decreased (P = 0.013) compared to CON, and d 0 was decreased (P < 0.001) compared to all other days of age. Cerebral-spinal fluid leptin concentrations of HC and LC were decreased (P = 0.005) compared to CON. In summary, exogenous cortisol administered to perinatal dairy bull calves reduced leptin concentrations in serum and CSF.
39 Effect of Breed on Dairy Calf Vigor from Birth to Preweaning
Authors: Meza Michelle P , Turner Caitlin M , Powers Chad M , Sexten Andrea K
Published: November 2020

There is a stigma in the dairy industry that Brown Swiss calves are not as quick to stand and nurse following birth compared to other dairy breeds. The objective of this study is to determine if Brown Swiss calves are less vigorous at birth, and does this impact their health status and early calf growth compared with the dairy industry’s most prominent breed, the Holstein. All calves (n = 25) were scored shortly after birth using a modified Apgar scoring system used for infants. Thirteen parameters divided into 5 categories were evaluated to determine overall vigor of each calf, these included visual scores for meconium staining and swelling of the head; initial mobility scores for time to lift head, time to stand, and ear position; general responsiveness scores included strength of the suckling reflex, head shake in response to straw in nasal cavity, tongue withdrawal when pinched, and eye reflex; oxygenation score for mucus membrane color; rates scores included heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature. In addition to the vigor scoring a weight was taken at birth and 2 weeks post calving. Jugular blood samples were collected at birth, 24 hours later, and at 2 weeks of age and serum was stored for later analysis of haptoglobin and IgG concentration. Vigor scores and weight data were analyzed by breed using the mixed procedure in SAS. The vigor score for suckling reflex was lower (P = 0.04) for Brown Swiss calves (1.69, n = 12) than Holstein calves (2.39, n = 13). A weakened suckling reflex can lead to more challenges when consuming colostrum. Early colostrum intake is vital to obtaining passive immunity and maintaining health status in young calves. All other vigor scores collected for the Brown Swiss and Holstein calves did not differ (P > 0.05).
103 Impact of weaning strategy on beef cow-calf behavior and activity
Authors: Alexander Molly , Pickworth Carrie L , Moore Mikayla , Poore Matt H
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of three weaning strategies on cow and calf behavior and activity. Research has shown that weaning imposes stress on both the cow and the calf that can alter behavior, activity, and growth performance. Angus-based cow-calf pairs (n = 147) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups, abrupt weaning on d0 (Abrupt, n = 50), fence-line contact for 7 days and then relocation of the cow on d7 (Fence, n = 50), and late weaning by abrupt separation on d84 (Late, n = 47). Both cow and calf behaviors were observed over 7d prior to weaning and 7d post weaning activity for each treatment group. A single observer recorded activity and vocalizations for each animal twice in morning and evening on observation days. Calf activity was also continuously measured using accelerometers secured to collars worn by five calves per treatment group. Observation and activity data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS. Significance was determined at P < 0.05 and a tendency at 0.05< P ≤ 0.10. The average activity units per day (AU/d) prior to weaning were similar among treatment groups. On d1 of weaning, Fence calves, who still had a visual contact with their dam, tended to have greater AU/d (P = 0.09) than the Abrupt calves and maintained a higher level of activity through d14 (P < 0.001). Late calves tended to have greater AU/d (P = 0.10) than Abrupt or Fence on d0-1 after their weaning. No difference in vocalizations (P = 0.41) by calves 7d post weaning were observed (1% Abrupt, 0% Fence, and 4% Late). More cows on Fence paced (1%) than Abrupt (0%) or Late (0%) (P < 0.05) in the 7d of fenceline contact. Late cows (2%) vocalized more than Abrupt (1%) or Fence (0%) when their calves were still with them (P < 0.05), but not after (P >0.05) when no vocalizations were recorded. These results differ from the previous year study; therefore, further investigation of the impact of weaning strategy on cow-calf behavior and activity is warranted.
Contracture Severity at Hospital Discharge in Children: A Burn Model System Database Study
Authors: Yelvington Miranda , Godleski Matthew , Lee Austin F , Goverman Jeremy , Parry Ingrid , Herndon David N , Suman Oscar E , Kowalske Karen , Holavanahalli Radha , Gibran Nicole S , Esselman Peter C , Ryan Colleen M , Schneider Jeffrey C
Published: November 2020

Contractures can complicate burn recovery. There are limited studies examining the prevalence of contractures following burns in pediatrics. This study investigates contracture outcomes by location, injury, severity, length of stay, and developmental stage. Data were obtained from the Burn Model System between 1994 and 2003. All patients younger than the age of 18 with at least one joint contracture at hospital discharge were included. Sixteen areas of impaired movement from the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, and ankle joints were examined. Analysis of variance was used to assess the association between contracture severity, burn size, and length of stay. Age groupings were evaluated for developmental patterns. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Data from 225 patients yielded 1597 contractures (758 in the hand) with a mean of 7.1 contractures (median 4) per patient. Mean contracture severity ranged from 17% (elbow extension) to 41% (ankle plantarflexion) loss of movement. Statistically significant associations were found between active range of motion loss and burn size, length of stay, and age groupings. The data illustrate quantitative assessment of burn contractures in pediatric patients at discharge in a multicenter database. Size of injury correlates with range of motion loss for many joint motions, reflecting the anticipated morbidity of contracture for pediatric burn survivors. These results serve as a potential reference for range of motion outcomes in the pediatric burn population, which could serve as a comparison for local practices, quality improvement measures, and future research.
Thomas Penny and the preservation of Conrad Gessner’s botanical legacy
Authors: Funk Holger
Published: November 2020

The literary legacy of Thomas Penny (c.1532–c.1588) is revealing about the nature of collecting and collections, in that he was lucky enough to find followers (Thomas Muffet and Theodore Mayerne) who mined his entomological research and bundled it into a book. On the other hand, it was unfortunate that nothing of the sort happened to the extensive notes he made during botanical excursions in Switzerland and France with the aim of completing Conrad Gessner’s unfinished ‘Historia plantarum’ of 1565. While we have the benefit of the ‘Insectorum, sive, Minimorum animalium theatrum’ (1634) – a semi-authentic work on insects, on which Penny’s reputation has exclusively rested – yet owing to his failure ultimately to publish either Gessner’s or his own botanical legacy, this aspect of his work has remained little known. Fortunately, much of his preparatory material survives so that we have the authentic, original documents to hand, which remain to be explored. This paper offers an initial contribution to that task by presenting an evaluation of Penny’s botanical notes and by providing his extant letters (as supplementary material) for the first time, both in transcription and in translation, showing Penny as a keen observer of nature amid the political turmoil of his time.
Pairs of giant shock waves (N-waves) in merging galaxy clusters
Authors: Zhang Congyao , Churazov Eugene , Zhuravleva Irina
Published: November 2020

When a subcluster merges with a larger galaxy cluster, a bow shock is driven ahead of the subcluster. At a later merger stage, this bow shock separates from the subcluster, becoming a ‘runaway’ shock that propagates down the steep density gradient through the cluster outskirts and approximately maintains its strength and the Mach number. Such shocks are plausible candidates for producing radio relics in the periphery of clusters. We argue that, during the same merger stage, a secondary shock is formed much closer to the main cluster centre. A close analogue of this structure is known in the usual hydrodynamics as N-waves, where the trailing part of the ‘N’ is the result of the non-linear evolution of a shock. In merging clusters, spherical geometry and stratification could further promote its development. Both the primary and the secondary shocks are the natural outcome of a single merger event and often both components of the pair should be present. However, in the radio band, the leading shock could be more prominent, while the trailing shock might conversely be more easily seen in X-rays. The latter argument implies that for some of the (trailing) shocks found in X-ray data, it might be difficult to identify their ‘partner’ leading shocks or the merging subclusters, which are farther away from the cluster centre. We argue that the Coma cluster and A2744 could be two examples in a post-merger state with such well-separated shock pairs.
Structural dynamics of double-stranded DNA with epigenome modification
Authors: Furukawa Ayako , Walinda Erik , Arita Kyohei , Sugase Kenji
Published: November 2020

Modification of cytosine plays an important role in epigenetic regulation of gene expression and genome stability. Cytosine is converted to 5-methylcytosine (5mC) by DNA methyltransferase; in turn, 5mC may be oxidized to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) by ten-eleven translocation enzyme. The structural flexibility of DNA is known to affect the binding of proteins to methylated DNA. Here, we have carried out a semi-quantitative analysis of the dynamics of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) containing various epigenetic modifications by combining data from imino 1H exchange and imino 1H R1ρ relaxation dispersion NMR experiments in a complementary way. Using this approach, we characterized the base-opening (kopen) and base-closing (kclose) rates, facilitating a comparison of the base-opening and -closing process of dsDNA containing cytosine in different states of epigenetic modification. A particularly striking result is the increase in the kopen rate of hemi-methylated dsDNA 5mC/C relative to unmodified or fully methylated dsDNA, indicating that the Watson–Crick base pairs undergo selective destabilization in 5mC/C. Collectively, our findings imply that the epigenetic modulation of cytosine dynamics in dsDNA mediates destabilization of the GC Watson–Crick base pair to allow base-flipping in living cells.
Granular Cell Tumor: A Technical Approach for Resection of a Rare Suprasellar Mass
Authors: Schupper Alexander J , Yuk Frank J , Zou Hongyan , Ahuja Sadhna , Tsankova Nadejda M , Hadjipanayis Constantinos G
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Granular cell tumors (GCTs) of the sellar and suprasellar regions are rare tumors that may be managed surgically by multiple strategies. The technical approaches for these tumors have rarely been described in the literature.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

We introduce the case of a patient presenting with dizziness and headaches who was found to have a suprasellar and retrochiasmatic mass and eventually underwent surgical resection. We discuss the characteristics of this tumor, and the current state of the literature. Also included are details regarding the surgical approach utilized in this case, and a discussion of the various surgical approaches for this type of tumor.

CONCLUSION

There are several approaches for the surgical resection of suprasellar GCTs, and the approach utilized may depend on patient and/or surgeon considerations. Patient-specific considerations must be made to ensure maximal safe resection of these lesions.
Intracranial Hemorrhage From Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas: Symptoms, Early Rebleed, and Acute Management: A Single-Center 8-Year Experience
Authors: Sorteberg Wilhelm , Sorteberg Angelika , Jacobsen Eva Astrid , Rønning Pål , Eide Per Kristian
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Cerebral dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) presenting with hemorrhage are so rare that reports on their characteristics and guidelines for their acute management are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To identify characteristics of the clinical and radiological presentation of hemorrhaging dAVFs, and establish their frequency of early rebleed so that implications for their acute management can be drawn.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of all patients admitted with intracranial hemorrhage from a dAVF during the years 2011 to 2018.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (14 males) with a median age of 61 yr (27-75 yr) were included. Thunderclap headache was the presenting symptom in 13 (65%) patients. Rebleed prior to treatment occurred in 35% of the patients at median 7.5 h (range 3-96 h) after the ictus. All dAVFs had retrograde venous drainage and a venous aneurysm with a bleb was the source of hemorrhage in 16 (80%) patients, all of them presenting with headache. In contrast, patients bleeding due to diffuse venous hypertension presented with neurological deficits. Endovascular treatment was successful in 2 cases; hence, definite dAVF treatment was surgical in 18 (90%) patients. At median 7 mo (2-29 mo) after the ictus, 13 (65%) patients were in Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended 7 or 8.

CONCLUSION

The typical presentation of hemorrhage from a cranial dAVF is thunderclap headache. The origin of hemorrhage is often a ruptured venous aneurysm with a bleb. The high frequency of early rebleeds warrants management strategies equivalent to those established for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Overall outcome is favorable.
SS-2 Current status and future perspective of radiomics in glioma imaging
Authors: Kinoshita Manabu , Narita Yoshitaka , Kanemura Yonehiro , Kishima Haruhiko
Published: November 2020

Qualitative imaging, primarily focusing on brain tumors’ genetic alterations, has gained traction since the introduction of molecular-based diagnosis of gliomas. This trend started with fine-tuning MRS for detecting intracellular 2HG in IDH-mutant astrocytomas and further expanded into a novel research field named “radiomics”. Along with the explosive development of machine learning algorithms, radiomics became one of the most competitive research fields in neuro-oncology. However, one should be cautious in interpreting research achievements produced by radiomics as there is no “standard” set in this novel research field. For example, the method used for image feature extraction is different from research to research, and some utilize machine learning for image feature extraction while others do not. Furthermore, the types of images used for input vary among various research. Some restrict data input only for conventional anatomical MRI, while others could include diffusion-weighted or even perfusion-weighted images. Taken together, however, previous reports seem to support the conclusion that IDH mutation status can be predicted with 80 to 90% accuracy for lower-grade gliomas. In contrast, the prediction of MGMT promoter methylation status for glioblastoma is exceptionally challenging. Although we can see sound improvements in radiomics, there is still no clue when the daily clinical practice can incorporate this novel technology. Difficulty in generalizing the acquired prediction model to the external cohort is the major challenge in radiomics. This problem may derive from the fact that radiomics requires normalization of qualitative MR images to semi-quantitative images. Introducing “true” quantitative MR images to radiomics may be a key solution to this inherent problem.
MS-1 Surgical strategy for brain tumor based on molecular and functional connectomics profiles
Authors: Abe Tatsuya
Published: November 2020

It is reported that the development of new perioperative motor deficits was associated with decreased overall survival despite similar extent of resection and adjuvant therapy. The maximum safe resection without any neurological deficits is required to improve overall survival in patients with brain tumor. Surgery is performed with various modalities, such as neuro-monitoring, photodynamic diagnosis, neuro-navigation, awake craniotomy, intraoperative MRI, and so on. Above all, awake craniotomy technique is now the standard procedure to achieve the maximum safe resection in patients with brain tumor. It is well known that before any treatment, gliomas generate globally (and not only focally) altered functional connectomics profiles, with various patterns of neural reorganization allowing different levels of cognitive compensation. Therefore, perioperative cortical mapping and elucidation of functional network, neuroplasticity and reorganization are important for brain tumor surgery. On the other hand, recent studies have proposed several gene signatures as biomarkers for different grades of gliomas from various perspectives. Then, we aimed to identify these biomarkers in pre-operative and/or intra-operative periods, using liquid biopsy, immunostaining and various PCR methods including rapid genotyping assay. In this presentation, we would like to demonstrate our surgical strategy based on molecular and functional connectomics profiles.
MS-2 Minimally invasive glioma surgery with navigation system and tubular retractor
Authors: Kurozumi Kazuhiko
Published: November 2020

Navigation systems are reliable and safe for neurological surgery. Navigation is an attractive and innovative therapeutic option. Recently, endo and exoscopic surgeries have been gradually increasing in neurosurgery. We are currently trialing to use 4K and 8K systems to improve the accuracy and safety of our surgical procedures. Surgeries for deep-seated tumors are challenging because of the difficulty in creating a corridor and observing the interface between lesions and the normal area. In total, 315 patients underwent surgery at Okayama University between 2017 and 2019. Among them, we experienced 92 glioma surgeries using navigation systems. Preoperatively, we performed computed tomography imaging and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the neuronavigation system. We experienced Curve(TM) Image Guided Surgery (BrainLab, Munich, Germany). The surgical trajectory was planned with functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging to protect the eloquent area and critical vasculature of the brain. We used a clear plastic tubular retractor system, the ViewSite Brain Access System, for surgery of deep seated gliomas. We gently inserted and placed the ViewSite using the neuronavigation. The tumor was observed and resected through the ViewSite tubular retractor under a microscope and endoscope. If the tumor was large, we switched the ViewSite tubular retractor to brain spatulas to identify the boundary between the normal brain and lesion. We are currently using the combination of the tubular retractor and brain spatulas using navigation system. Here, we present and analyze our preoperative simulation, surgical procedure, and outcomes.
CBMS-04 Novel xenograft model to clarify tumor progressive mechanism and therapeutic target in primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Tateishi Kensuke , Miyake Yohei , Kawazu Masahito , Nakamura Taishi , Sasaki Nobuyoshi , Sasame Jo , Yoshii Yukie , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Nagane Motoo , Ichimura Koichi , Yamamoto Tetsuya
Published: November 2020

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare lymphoma of the central nervous system and has a dismal prognosis despite intensive chemotherapy. Recent genomic analyses have identified recurrent genetic alterations in Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). However, lack of clinically representative PCNSL models has diminished our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of those genetic events. Here, we established 14 patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOXs). Comprehensive analysis showed that PDOXs faithfully retained the phenotypic, metabolic, and genetic features with 100 % concordance of MYD88 and CD79B mutations present in immuno-competent PCNSL patients. Notably, orthotopic xenograft formation was consistently dependent on deregulated signaling through the RelA/p65-hexokinase 2 (HK-2) axis. MYD88/CD79B mutations and Pin1 activation, or LMP1 and Pin1 activation, converge on the RelA/p65-HK-2 signaling in immunocompetent and EBV-positive PCNSL, respectively. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of this key signaling axis potently suppressed PCNSL tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, our models further offer a platform for predicting clinical chemotherapeutics efficacy. Therefore, our models provide critical insights into pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic discovery in PCNSL.
CBMS-05 Biological and Pathological meaning of aneuploidy in mouse glioma stem sell
Authors: Negoto Tetsuya , Jo Minji , Sampetrean Oltea , Motohiro Morioka , Saya Hideyuki , Hirota Toru
Published: November 2020

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a pathological condition where cells continuously mis-segregate chromosomes, producing aneuploid cells. CIN has been recognized as a hallmark of cancer, and its correlation with biological malignancy has been pointed out. Glioma cell line often reveals karyotype aberrations, and a variety of ploidy in the tumor tissue. However, several studies have indicated that aneuploidy is disadvantageous for proliferation or tumorigenesis, and these paradox prompt us to address the role of aneuploid cells in tumor specimens. Here, we adopted mouse glioma stem cell lineages and found that aneuploid population is increased in glioma stem cells in vitro. We also examined Aurora B at centromeres which is crucial for failsafe chromosome segregation and found its reduced activity in glioma stem cells, suggesting that insufficient Aurora B activity plays a causative role in CIN in glioma stem cells. Next, to investigate the tumorigenicity of aneuploid cells, we sorted the glioma stem cells depending on the karyotype pattern, and allografted into mouse brain. We found that the growth rate of diploid glioma stem cells was higher than others in vitro, and the probability of survival after allogeneic transplant was significantly lower in diploid groups. We will discuss the role of ploidy in glioma cells populations.
CBMS-11 PROTEIN DEUBIQUITINATION PATHWAY IS A NOVEL THERAPEUTIC TARGET AGAINST MALIGNANT CNS NON-GERMINOMATOUS GERM CELL TUMORS
Authors: Tomiyama Arata , Uchida Eita , Kawauchi Daisuke , Wada Kojiro , Ichimura Kouchi
Published: November 2020

Central nervous system germ cell tumors (CNSGCTs) are rare intracranial neoplasm usually developed in adolescents and young adults. However, in East Asia including Japan, incidence of CNSGCTs is considerably higher compare with other regions of the world. Whereas germinomas generally respond to chemo-radiotherapy well, malignant subtypes of non-germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCT) are refractory, and development of novel therapy against NGGCTs is urgently needed. To develop a new therapeutic strategy against aggressive NGGCTs, we have investigated novel molecular targets for NGGCT treatment. We screened a total of 120 CNSGCT tumor tissues (including 55 NGGCT), which were registered to the Intracranial Germ Cell Tumor Consortium (iGCT), and discovered multiple mutations of a molecule that regulates protein ubiquitination and degradation specifically in NGGCT cases (5 of 55 cases; 1 immature teratoma, 3 mixed gem cell tumors, and 1 embryonal carcinoma). An in vitro ubiquitination assay revealed the mutations of this molecule discovered in NGGCT cases were loss of function mutations. Reduced expression of this molecule by knockdown in an established human seminoma cell line Tcam2 or a human yolk sac tumor cell line YST1, which was recently established in our institute, resulted in enhanced proliferation as well as upregulation of MEK-ERK activation. Importantly, treatment of these two GCT cell lines with reduced expression of this molecule by MEK inhibitor trametinib suppressed augmented proliferation of these cells. Taken together, these results suggest that protein ubiquitination-related pathways as well as MEK-ERK cascade may serve as a novel therapeutic target against NGGCTs.
TB-03 Newly Established Meningioma Organoid Model Elucidated an Important Role of FOXM1 in Meningioma Progression
Authors: Yamazaki Shintaro , Ohka Fumiharu , Hirano Masaki , Motomura Kazuya , Tanahashi Kuniaki , Takeuchi Kazuhito , Shiraki Yukihiro , Aoki Kosuke , Kitano Yotaro , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Junya , Maeda Sachi , Enomoto Atsushi , Wakabayashi Toshihiko , Natsume Atsushi
Published: November 2020

Meningioma is the most frequently occurring intracranial neoplasms in adults. Tumor removal surgery and radiotherapy were the widely accepted standard treatment for meningioma. Most meningioma cases were cured by extended total removal. However, some tumors develop in locations less amenable to resection, resulting in tumor recurrence after incomplete tumor removal followed by radiotherapy. Although several comprehensive studies have revealed frequently found molecular alterations of meningiomas, effective treatment reagents targeting specific molecular alterations have not been identified yet because of limited number of representative research models such as tumor cell lines or animal models of meningiomas. Recently developed 3D culture technologies have led to the development of novel cancer models, termed organoid models, due to their quite high efficiency of establishment. In this study, we established primary organoid culture methods using malignant meningioma cell lines (e.g. HKBMM and IOMM-Lee) and patient-derived meningioma tissues. Using this novel method, we have been able to establish six organoid models (four WHO grade I meningiomas, one WHO grade III one and one solitary fibrous tumor (SFT)) using tumor tissues derived from six consecutive patients with 100% success rate. Histological analyses, whole exome sequencing and copy number analyses revealed that these organoids exhibited consistent histological features and molecular profiling with those of parental tumors. Using public database, we identified upregulated FOXM1 was correlated with increased tumor proliferation. Over-expression of FOXM1 in benign meningioma organoids increased organoid proliferation, while depletion of FOXM1 in malignant ones decreased their proliferation. We revealed that novel organoid model for meningioma enable to shed light on the tumor biology of meningioma.