bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interstitial Lung Disease Associated with Anti-PM/Scl or Anti-Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetase Autoantibodies: A Similar Condition?
Authors: LEGA JEAN-CHRISTOPHE , COTTIN VINCENT , FABIEN NICOLE , THIVOLET-BÉJUI FRANÇOISE , CORDIER JEAN-FRANÇOIS
Published: March 2010

Objective.

To compare anti-PM/Scl autoantibody-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD) with anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (anti-ARS) autoantibody-associated ILD.

Methods.

We retrospectively studied 21 patients with ILD from a department of respiratory medicine, including 9 with anti-PM/Scl autoantibodies (6 women, median age 55 yrs, followup 5.5 yrs) and 12 with anti-ARS autoantibodies (6 women, median age 59 yrs, followup 2.3 yrs).

Results.

Pulmonary manifestations in patients with anti-PM/Scl autoantibody-associated ILD usually followed the extrapulmonary manifestations of the connective tissue disease (CTD) (7/9 cases). The predominant imaging features on initial high resolution computed tomography were ground-glass attenuation and reticular opacities, and mainly suggested nonspecific interstitial pneumonia in both groups. CTD was classified as dermatomyositis (DM; 2), undifferentiated CTD (2), cutaneous limited systemic sclerosis (2), rheumatoid arthritis (RA; 1), and overlap syndrome (1) in the anti-PM/Scl group; and polymyositis (4), undifferentiated CTD (5), DM (1), amyopathic DM (1), and RA (1) in the anti-ARS group. Frequencies of arthralgia, Raynaud phenomenon, cutaneous rash, and mechanic’s hands were comparable in both groups. Myalgia or muscle weakness was present in 0/9 PM/Scl and 5/12 ARS patients (p < 0.05). More than 1 autoantibody was present in 11 patients. ILD worsened despite treatment in 4 patients with anti-PM/Scl autoantibodies and 2 with anti-ARS autoantibodies, and included 1 death.

Conclusion.

Anti-PM/Scl and anti-ARS antibodies are associated with similar clinical manifestations, with the exception only of more overt myositis in the latter, therefore challenging the clinical specificity of the antisynthetase syndrome.
White-matter Volume Reduction and the Protective Effect of Immunosuppressive Therapy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients with Normal Appearance by Conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: XU JIAN , CHENG YUQI , CHAI PEI , LU ZHAOPING , LI HAIJUN , LUO CHUNRONG , LI XIZHI , LI LIN , ZHOU QIXIN , CHEN BING , CAO JUN , XU XIUFENG , SHAN BAOCI , XU LIN , WEN JIANFAN
Published: March 2010

Objective.

The central nervous system (CNS) is often affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but assessment of CNS outcomes using noninvasive cerebral structural measures remains in its infancy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with expert visual interpretation is critical to diagnosis, but does not permit quantitative measurements. Our pilot study investigated whether quantitative brain volumetric analyses could be used to detect white-matter (WM) abnormalities and responses to treatment in SLE (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00703742).

Methods.

Forty-two pairs of SLE patients and healthy controls underwent high-resolution 3-dimensional structural MRI scans. Combining voxel-based morphometry and region of interest analyses, subtle WM volume abnormalities in whole brains from SLE patients were identified, and regional WM volume was calculated. Associations between WM volume and symptom severity, as well as the effects of immunosuppressive therapy, were then investigated.

Results.

The WM volume of the SLE group was significantly decreased in the bilateral posterior and anterior crus of the internal capsule (PIC and AIC, respectively), the subgyral right frontal lobe, and left temporal lobe (p < 0.001). Regional WM volume (left PIC and right AIC) was correlated with SLEDAI scores. The WM volume of patients treated with immunosuppressive therapy was greater than that of patients who were never treated with immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusion.

Quantitative brain volumetric analyses detect brain injuries in WM for SLE that are not obvious by conventional MRI, and may be adequately sensitive and quantitative to measure the effect of therapeutic interventions in preventing brain injury and outcomes in SLE.
Risk Factors for Axial Inflammatory Arthritis in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: CHANDRAN VINOD , TOLUSSO DAVID C. , COOK RICHARD J. , GLADMAN DAFNA D.
Published: March 2010

Objective.

Axial involvement is an important manifestation of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). We aimed to identify risk factors associated with the presence of axial PsA (AxPsA) in patients with PsA.

Methods.

Patients with AxPsA (bilateral sacroiliitis ≥ grade 2/unilateral sacroiliitis ≥ 3 and inflammatory neck/back pain or limited spinal mobility) at first clinic visit were identified from the University of Toronto PsA clinic database. Risk factors associated with the presence of AxPsA were determined. Subsequently, patients without AxPsA at first clinic visit were identified. Under a multistate framework, the proportion of patients with PsA who subsequently developed AxPsA was estimated robustly using marginal methods and a Markov model. Risk factors at baseline that were associated with future development of AxPsA were identified through multiplicative time-homogeneous Markov models.

Results.

Our study included 206 patients. Fifty patients had AxPsA at first clinic visit. HLA-B*27, radiographic damage to peripheral joints, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) increased odds of having AxPsA, while family history of PsA decreased the odds. One hundred fifty-six patients did not have AxPsA at first clinic visit. On followup, 28 developed AxPsA, and 11 died. We estimated that after 10 years of followup, 15% would develop AxPsA. Nail dystrophy, number of radiographically damaged joints, periostitis, and elevated ESR increased the risk of developing AxPsA, while swollen joints decreased the risk.

Conclusion.

These results suggest that severe peripheral arthritis and HLA-B*27 are risk factors for AxPsA.
Diet, growth and reproduction of four flatfishes on the Portuguese coast
Authors: Teixeira Célia M. , Batista Marisa I. , Cabral Henrique N.
Published: March 2010

Four flatfish species were collected between January 2003 and June 2005 from commercial fishing vessels operating with gill nets and bottom trawls along the Portuguese coast in order to examine feeding habits, age and growth and reproduction. Citharus linguatula (Linnaeus, 1758), Lepidorhombus boscii (Risso, 1810) and Microchirus azevia (de Brito Capello, 1867) fed mainly on crustaceans, whereas Platichthys flesus (Linnaeus, 1758) fed mainly on echinoderms and crustaceans. Feeding activity was highest in spring and summer; females and small individuals showed the lowest vacuity index values. For all the species, significant differences were found in the proportion of prey items according to season, sex and size class. M. azevia had the largest diet spectrum. Ages were determined from sagittal otoliths. The von Bertalanffy growth equation coefficients differed between sexes. The asymptotic length L∞ of females was higher than that of males, except in C. linguatula. The lowest growth coefficient was obtained for P. flesus (k=0.11 for males and k=0.10 for females) and M. azevia showed the highest growth coefficient estimates (k=0.40 for females and k=0.30 for males). The highest proportion of individuals at spawning stage was recorded in winter for L. boscii, P. flesus and M. azevia, and in autumn for C. linguatula.
Antimicrobial potential of marine organisms collected from the southwest coast of India against multiresistant human and shrimp pathogens
Authors: Manilal Aseer , Sujith Sugathan , Selvin Joseph , Seghal Kiran George , Shakir Chippu , Premnath Lipton Aaron
Published: March 2010

Diverse marine flora and fauna collected from the southwest coast of India was evaluated for its antimicrobial potential against shrimp Vibrio and multiresistant human pathogens. In total, 47 species of various taxa of marine organisms (29 flora and 18 fauna) were screened for antimicrobial activity. The marine flora includes twenty species of seaweeds, two species of mangroves, four species of cyanobacteria and three species of microalgae. The marine fauna comprises three species of porifera, twelve species of molluscans, one species of sea urchin, one of sea cucumber and one of cnidarian. The organic extractives were tested against five type cultures (Microbial Type Culture Collection) of prominent shrimp Vibrio pathogens, including V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus, V. harveyi, V. alcaligenes and V. alginolyticus, and five multiresistant clinical pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Among the marine organisms screened, seaweeds showed a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The highly active seaweed Falkenbergia, a heteromorphic sporophyte of Asparagopsis taxiformis (Delile) Trevisan, was evaluated further to purify the active compounds using different chromatographic systems, including reverse phase HPLC and GC-MS. The analysis revealed that the most abundant metabolites are oleic acid (51.33%) followed by n-hexadecanoic acid (42.87%).
Review of the Septibranchia (Mollusca: Pelecypoda) from the deep sea of Campos Basin, Brazil: Family Lyonsiellidae, with description of a new species
Authors: Dilnei de Castro Oliveira Cléo , Silva Absalão Ricardo
Published: March 2010

A review is made of the members of Lyonsiellidae present on the continental slope (750-2000 m) of Campos Basin (22°S), off south-eastern Brazil. A total of six taxa are recognized. Two taxa were previously unknown to science (Lyonsiella pipoca n. sp., described herein, and Policordia sp.). Lyonsiella frielei and Policordia gemma are recorded from Brazilian waters for the first time. Lyonsiella abyssicola is distributed throughout the Atlantic Ocean, but the present record fills a gap in its distribution in the southwest Atlantic. Lyonsiella cf. formosa has a confused taxonomic status, and we believe that more than one species has been called L. formosa. Lyonsiella abyssicola, L. frielei and L. cf. formosa have the shell surface covered by small spines that typically have a hexagonal column and a stellate structure at the distal end.
Referencing geostrophic velocities using ADCP data Referencing geostrophic velocities using ADCP data
Authors: Comas-Rodríguez Isis , Hernández-Guerra Alonso , McDonagh Elaine L.
Published: March 2010

Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) have proven to be a useful oceanographic tool in the study of ocean dynamics. Data from D279, a transatlantic hydrographic cruise carried out in spring 2004 along 24.5°N, were processed, and lowered ADCP (LADCP) bottom track data were used to assess the choice of reference velocity for geostrophic calculations. The reference velocities from different combinations of ADCP data were compared to one another and a reference velocity was chosen based on the LADCP data. The barotropic tidal component was subtracted to provide a final reference velocity estimated by LADCP data. The results of the velocity fields are also shown. Further studies involving inverse solutions will include the reference velocity calculated here.
Feeding on protists and particulates by the leptocephali of the worm eels Myrophis spp. (Teleostei: Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae), and the potential energy contribution of large aloricate protozoa
Authors: Govoni John Jeffrey
Published: March 2010

The food sources of the leptocephali of the teleostean superorder Elopomorpha have been controversial, yet observations on the leptocephali of the worm eels, Myrophis spp. (family Ophichthidae) collected in the northern Gulf of Mexico indicate active, not passive, feeding. Leptocephali had protists in their alimentary canals. Estimates of the physiological energetics of worm eels indicate that large aloricate protozoa including ciliates could provide substantial energy to these leptocephali toward the end of the premetamorphic and metamorphic stages, given the low energy requirements of metamorphosing leptocephali. Global ocean warming will likely force a shift in oceanic food webs; a shift away from large protozoa toward smaller protists is possible. Such a disruption of the oceanic food webs could further compromise the survival of leptocephali.
Evidence for Unfolded Protein Response Activation in Monocytes from Individuals with α-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Authors: Carroll Tomás P. , Greene Catherine M. , O’Connor Catherine A. , Nolan Áine M. , O’Neill Shane J. , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: March 2010

The hereditary disorder α-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency results from mutations in the SERPINA1 gene and presents with emphysema in young adults and liver disease in childhood. The most common form of AAT deficiency occurs because of the Z mutation, causing the protein to fold aberrantly and accumulate in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This leads to ER stress and contributes significantly to the liver disease associated with the condition. In addition to hepatocytes, AAT is also synthesized by monocytes, neutrophils, and epithelial cells. In this study we show for the first time that the unfolded protein response (UPR) is activated in quiescent monocytes from ZZ individuals. Activating transcription factor 4, X-box binding protein 1, and a subset of genes involved in the UPR are increased in monocytes from ZZ compared with MM individuals. This contributes to an inflammatory phenotype with ZZ monocytes exhibiting enhanced cytokine production and activation of the NF-κB pathway when compared with MM monocytes. In addition, we demonstrate intracellular accumulation of AAT within the ER of ZZ monocytes. These are the first data showing that Z AAT protein accumulation induces UPR activation in peripheral blood monocytes. These findings change the current paradigm regarding lung inflammation in AAT deficiency, which up until now was derived from the protease–anti-protease hypothesis, but which now must include the exaggerated inflammatory response generated by accumulated aberrantly folded AAT in circulating blood cells.
Chlamydial Respiratory Infection during Allergen Sensitization Drives Neutrophilic Allergic Airways Disease
Authors: Horvat Jay C. , Starkey Malcolm R. , Kim Richard Y. , Beagley Kenneth W. , Preston Julie A. , Gibson Peter G. , Foster Paul S. , Hansbro Philip M.
Published: March 2010

Neutrophilic asthma is a prevalent, yet recently described phenotype of asthma. It is characterized by neutrophilic rather than eosinophilic airway inflammation and airways hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and may have an infectious origin. Chlamydial respiratory infections are associated with asthma, but how these Th1-inducing bacteria influence Th2-mediated asthma remains unknown. The effects of chlamydial infection on the development of asthma were investigated using a BALB/c mouse model of OVA-induced allergic airways disease (AAD). The effects of current and resolved Chlamydia muridarum infection during OVA sensitization on AAD were assessed and compared with uninfected and nonsensitized controls. Current, but not resolved, infection attenuated hallmark features of AAD: pulmonary eosinophil influx, T cell production of IL-5, mucus-secreting cell hyperplasia, and AHR. Current infection also induced robust OVA-driven neutrophilic inflammation and IFN-γ release from T cells. The phenotype of suppressed but persistent Th2 responses in association with enhanced neutrophilia is reminiscent of neutrophilic asthma. This phenotype was also characterized by increased pulmonary IL-12 and IL-17 expression and activation of APCs, as well as by reduced thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine. Inhibition of pulmonary neutrophil influx during infection blocked OVA-induced neutrophilic inflammation and T cell IFN-γ production and reversed the suppressive effects on mucus-secreting cell hyperplasia and AHR during AAD. These changes correlated with decreased IL-12 and IL-17 expression, increased thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine and altered APC activation. Blocking IFN-γ and IL-17 during OVA challenge had no effect. Thus, active chlamydial respiratory infection during sensitization enhances subsequent neutrophilic inflammation and Th1/Th17 responses during allergen exposure and may have a role in the pathogenesis of neutrophilic asthma.
Differential IL-17 Production and Mannan Recognition Contribute to Fungal Pathogenicity and Commensalism
Authors: Rizzetto Lisa , Kuka Mirela , De Filippo Carlotta , Cambi Alessandra , Netea Mihai G. , Beltrame Luca , Napolitani Giorgio , Torcia Maria Gabriella , D’Oro Ugo , Cavalieri Duccio
Published: March 2010

In this study, we present evidence of differential Th17 responses in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells exposed to the pathogenic Candida albicans or the nonpathogenic Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We use different forms of the microorganisms, cells, hyphae, and spores, as a toolbox to dissect the role of surface mannan in the fungal immune response. In contrast to the S. cerevisiae yeast cell-induced Th1 response, dendritic cells stimulated with spores or C. albicans hyphae induce cellular responses shifted toward Th17 differentiation. The differential recognition of specific mannan structures is the master regulator of the discrimination between harmful and harmless fungi. The switch between spores and yeast is crucial for the commensalism of S. cerevisiae and depends on the use of a different receptor repertoire. Understanding the role of cell wall recognition during infection might lead to understanding the boundaries between safety and pathogenicity.
Unexpected Role for the Immunoproteasome Subunit LMP2 in Antiviral Humoral and Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Hensley Scott E. , Zanker Damien , Dolan Brian P. , David Alexandre , Hickman Heather D. , Embry Alan C. , Skon Cara N. , Grebe Kristie M. , Griffin Thomas A. , Chen Weisan , Bennink Jack R. , Yewdell Jonathan W.
Published: March 2010

Proteasomes are multisubunit proteases that initiate degradation of many Ags presented by MHC class I molecules. Vertebrates express alternate forms of each of the three catalytic proteasome subunits: standard subunits, and immunosubunits, which are constitutively expressed by APCs and are induced in other cell types by exposure to cytokines. The assembly of mixed proteasomes containing standard subunits and immunosubunits is regulated in a tissue specific manner. In this study, we report that the presence of mixed proteasomes in immune cells in LMP2−/− mice compromises multiple components that contribute to the generation of antiviral Ab responses, including splenic B cell numbers, survival and function of adoptively transferred B cells, Th cell function, and dendritic cell secretion of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and type I IFNs. These defects did not result from compromised overall protein degradation, rather they were associated with altered NF-κB activity. These findings demonstrate an important role for immunoproteasomes in immune cell function beyond their contribution to Ag processing.
IL-17 Promotes p38 MAPK-Dependent Endothelial Activation Enhancing Neutrophil Recruitment to Sites of Inflammation
Authors: Roussel Lucie , Houle François , Chan Carlos , Yao Yu , Bérubé Julie , Olivenstein Ron , Martin James G. , Huot Jacques , Hamid Qutayba , Ferri Lorenzo , Rousseau Simon
Published: March 2010

Neutrophilic inflammation plays an important role in lung tissue destruction occurring in many chronic pulmonary diseases. Neutrophils can be recruited to sites of inflammation via the action of the cytokine IL-17. In this study, we report that IL-17RA and IL-17RC mRNA expression is significantly increased in asthmatic bronchoscopic biopsies and that these receptors are not only expressed on epithelial and inflammatory cells but also on endothelial cells. IL-17 potently stimulates lung microvascular endothelial cells to produce chemoattractants (CXCL8 and derivatives of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway) that selectively drive neutrophil but not lymphocyte chemotaxis. Moreover, IL-17 promotes endothelial activation by inducing the expression of endothelial adhesion markers (E-selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1) in a p38 MAPK-dependent manner. This increased expression of adhesion molecules stimulates the trans-endothelial migration of neutrophils, as well as the transmigration of HT-29 colon carcinoma cells, suggesting a further role in promoting lung metastasis. Finally, IL-17 increased neutrophil adhesion to the endothelium in vivo as determined by intravital microscopy of mice cremaster muscle. Overall, our results demonstrate that IL-17 is a potent activator of the endothelium in vivo leading to neutrophil infiltration. Therefore, preventing neutrophil recruitment by blocking the action of IL-17 on endothelial cells may prove to be highly beneficial in diseases in which neutrophilic inflammation plays a key role.
Peripheral B Cell Tolerance and Function in Transgenic Mice Expressing an IgD Superantigen
Authors: Duong Bao Hoa , Ota Takayuki , Aït-Azzouzene Djemel , Aoki-Ota Miyo , Vela José Luis , Huber Christoph , Walsh Kevin , Gavin Amanda L. , Nemazee David
Published: March 2010

Transitional B cells turn over rapidly in vivo and are sensitive to apoptosis upon BCR ligation in vitro. However, little direct evidence addresses their tolerance sensitivity in vivo. A key marker used to distinguish these cells is IgD, which, through alternative RNA splicing of H chain transcripts, begins to be coexpressed with IgM at this stage. IgD is also expressed at high levels on naive follicular (B-2) and at lower levels on marginal zone and B-1 B cells. In this study, mice were generated to ubiquitously express a membrane-bound IgD-superantigen. These mice supported virtually no B-2 development, a greatly reduced marginal zone B cell population, but a relatively normal B-1 compartment. B cell development in the spleen abruptly halted at the transitional B cell population 1 to 2 stage, a block that could not be rescued by either Bcl-2 or BAFF overexpression. The developmentally arrested B cells appeared less mature and turned over more rapidly than nontransgenic T2 cells, exhibiting neither conventional features of anergy nor appreciable receptor editing. Paradoxically, type-2 T-independent responses were more robust in the transgenic mice, although T-dependent responses were reduced and had skewed IgL and IgH isotype usages. Nevertheless, an augmented memory response to secondary challenge was evident. The transgenic mice also had increased serum IgM, but diminished IgG, levels mirrored by the increased numbers of IgM+ plasma cells. This model should facilitate studies of peripheral B cell tolerance, with the advantages of allowing analysis of polyclonal populations, and of B cells naturally lacking IgD.
Chronic Cigarette Smoke Exposure Primes NK Cell Activation in a Mouse Model of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Motz Gregory T. , Eppert Bryan L. , Wortham Brian W. , Amos-Kroohs Robyn M. , Flury Jennifer L. , Wesselkamper Scott C. , Borchers Michael T.
Published: March 2010

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a debilitating, progressive lung disease punctuated by exacerbations of symptoms. COPD exacerbations are most often associated with viral infections, and exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) followed by viral infection has been shown experimentally to enhance lung inflammation, tissue destruction, and airway fibrosis. Despite this, however, the cellular mechanisms responsible for this effect are unknown. In this study, we examined NK cell function in a mouse model of COPD given the vital role of NK cells following viral infection. Ex vivo stimulation of lung leukocytes with poly(I:C), ssRNA40, or ODN1826 enhanced production of NK cell-derived IFN-γ in CS-exposed mice. NK cells from CS-exposed mice exhibited a novel form of priming; highly purified NK cells from CS-exposed mice, relative to NK cells from filtered air-exposed mice, produced more IFN-γ following stimulation with IL-12, IL-18, or both. Further, NK cell priming was lost following smoking cessation. NKG2D stimulation through overexpression of Raet1 on the lung epithelium primed NK cell responsiveness to poly(I:C), ssRNA40, or ODN1826 stimulation, but not cytokine stimulation. In addition, NK cells from CS-exposed mice expressed more cell surface CD107a upon stimulation, demonstrating that the NK cell degranulation response was also primed. Together, these results reveal a novel mechanism of activation of the innate immune system and highlight NK cells as important cellular targets in controlling COPD exacerbations.
Cutting Edge: CD28 and c-Rel–Dependent Pathways Initiate Regulatory T Cell Development
Authors: Vang Kieng B. , Yang Jianying , Pagán Antonio J. , Li Lin-Xi , Wang Junmei , Green Jonathan M. , Beg Amer A. , Farrar Michael A.
Published: March 2010

Regulatory T cell (Treg) development proceeds via a two-step process in which naive CD4+ thymocytes are first converted into CD4+CD25+CD122+GITR+Foxp3− Treg progenitors, followed by a second step in which IL-2 converts these Treg progenitors into CD4+Foxp3+ Tregs. The costimulatory molecule CD28 is required for efficient Treg development. However, the stage at which CD28 affects Treg development remains undefined. In this article, we demonstrate that Cd28−/− mice lack Treg progenitors. Furthermore, the P187YAP motif in the cytoplasmic tail of CD28, which links CD28 to Lck activation, is required for this process. In contrast, the Y170MNM motif, which links CD28 to PI3K activation, is not required for Treg progenitor development. Finally, the CD28/Lck pathway was shown to activate the NF-κB family of transcription factors. We demonstrate that c-Rel, but not NF-κB1, promotes the development of Treg progenitors. Thus, a CD28/c-Rel–dependent pathway is involved in initiating Treg development.
EFFECT OF CONTINUOUS FEEDING OF RAPESEED MEAL ON GROWTH OF DAIRY CALVES AND SUBSEQUENT FIRST LACTATION YIELD
Authors: INGALLS J. R. , SEALE M. E.
Published: March 2010

Thirty dairy heifer calves were reared from birth to calving on rations containing 0, 6.8 or 13.7% rapeseed meal in substitution for soybean meal. The level of rapeseed meal did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect feed intake, weight gain or feed efficiency of heifers up to breeding weight (330–340 kg). The level of rapeseed meal did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect reproduction or milk production during the first lactation. However, there may have been a trend for lower conception rate and milk fat production during first lactation with the higher level of rapeseed meal.
INFLUENCE OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS ON HORMONE-INDUCED SUPEROVULATION IN NORMALLY CYCLING EWES
Authors: TAIT R. M.
Published: March 2010

Two groups, each of 18 normally cycling ewes, were subjected to either a low plane (3.0 Mcal digestible energy) or a high plane (4.5 Mcal DE) of nutrition prior to and during breeding. All ewes were synchronized by means of progestagen-impregnated intravaginal pessaries, and one subgroup within each nutritional group received 800 IU PMS (pregnant mare serum) to induce superovulation. The average litter size was 1.78 and 0.89 for the low plane group, with and without PMS, respectively, and 2.10 and 1.44 for the high plane group, with and without PMS, respectively. The plane of nutrition significantly (P < 0.05) increased the lambing percentage, as did the PMS treatment (P < 0.01). There was no significant (P > 0.05) interaction between the plane of nutrition and PMS level. The results suggest that gonadotropin treatment combined with estrus synchronization could provide a commercially feasible means of increasing litter size in ewes.
INTERSEXUALITY IN ONTARIO SWINE
Authors: Krishnamurthy S. , Macpherson J. W. , King G. J.
Published: March 2010

not available
USE OF MILK RECORDS IN ONE HERD TO PREDICT A COW’S PRODUCTION IN A SECOND HERD
Authors: BURNSIDE E. B. , FREEMAN M. G. , BATRA T. R. , WEAVER G. B.
Published: March 2010

The objective was to relate the average herdmate milk deviation of cows which completed one or more records in each of two Canadian dairy herds. Record of Performance records of Canadian Holstein cows transferred at least once during their productive life were studied to evaluate the use of milk records in one herd to predict a cow’s production in a second herd. Each record was adjusted for days open and age-at-calving and then expressed as a deviation from first lactation or second and later lactation herdmate averages. Weighted regression of the cow’s average herdmate deviation in the second herd on her real producing ability estimated in the first herd was 0.87 ±.07 Breed Class Average (BCA). Weighted regression of the cow’s average BCA in the second herd on her real producing ability estimated from absolute BCA’s was much lower (0.30 ±.05). Approximately 80% of the cows ranked similarly on deviations in the second herd as they did in the first herd. A study of cows transferred from low to high producing herds revealed that real producing ability estimates based on herdmate deviations were excellent indicators of future production (b = 0.98 ±.15). The regression for cows transferred from high to low producing herds was lower (b = 0.44 ±.17).
GROWTH AND CARCASS TRAITS OF CATTALO, HEREFORD, AND 1/4-BRAHMAN BULL CALVES
Authors: LAWSON J. E. , PETERS H. F.
Published: March 2010

The 1/4-Brahman bull calves exceeded those of the cattalo and Hereford by 19.6 and 14.8% in weaning weight. However, the Hereford surpassed the 1/4-Brahman and the cattalo by 11.1 and 14.9% in feedlot average daily gain. Cattalo (cattle × bison species cross) bulls weighed 17.7 and 12.0% less than 1/4-Brahman and Hereford bulls just before slaughter at an average age of 425 days. Similar differences were apparent for cold carcass weight. When age-of-dam and age-at-slaughter were covariate factors, area of the longissimus dorsi from 1/4-Brahman calves was larger by 13.5 and 8.7% than those from cattalo and Hereford. Fat thickness over the 1. dorsi did not differ among groups. Carcass weight and age at slaughter were covariates for the weights of meat cuts. Weights of loin, round, or plate cuts did not differ among groups. However, the rib cut from the 1/4-Brahman was lighter than that from the cattalo and Hereford, and the chuck cut was heavier. The Hereford exceeded the 1/4-Brahman in total weight of the more expensive rib–loin–round cuts. Warner-Bratzler shear estimates of tenderness did not differ among groups. Average fat thickness over the 1. dorsi was not significantly correlated to any of the means of the shear test on raw or broiled samples. In general, 1/4-Brahman and Hereford groups each exhibited superiority over the other two groups for several traits, while cattalo bulls did not exceed the other two groups in any of the traits considered in this study.
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED COLD AND THE OUTDOOR WINTER ENVIRONMENT ON APPARENT DIGESTIBILITY IN SHEEP AND CATTLE
Authors: CHRISTOPHERSON R. J.
Published: March 2010

Digestion experiments were performed on sheep and cattle exposed for prolonged periods to various temperatures in controlled environmental chambers and in field studies on cattle kept outdoors during the winter. Exposure of sheep receiving pelleted hay or a hay–grain mixture to cold (−6.5–−10 C) temperatures as compared to warm (18 C) temperatures resulted in reductions in the apparent digestibilities of dry matter (DM) and nitrogen which could not be explained by changes in feed intake. In sheep, DM digestibility decreased on average by 0.31% per degree C decrease in temperature. Exposure of two cows to −11 C for 4 wk did not influence the apparent digestibilities of DM, energy or nitrogen of a long hay ration compared to values measured at 20 C. In the field studies, beef calves consuming an equal mixture of chopped hay and grain and kept outdoors during winter had apparent digestibilities of DM which were on average 8% lower (P < 0.05) than calves on the same ration kept in a heated barn. The apparent digestibility of nitrogen was also lower (P < 0.05) for the calves kept outdoors. Beef steers kept outdoors during winter and fed an equal mixture of chopped hay and grain had significantly lower apparent digestibilities of DM and acid detergent fiber (P < 0.01) than steers kept indoors. In the steers, low apparent digestibilities tended to be associated with high resting metabolic rates. The effect of temperature on the steers was smaller than that observed for calves although the diets were similar. The decreases in DM digestibility per degree decrease in temperature were: for the calves, 0.21% per degree C and, for the steers, 0.08% per degree C, suggesting that the digestive function in younger, smaller animals my be more markedly influenced by environmental temperature than that of older, larger animals.
STUDIES ON BEEF EATING QUALITY IN RELATION TO THE CURRENT CANADA GRADE CLASSIFICATIONS
Authors: HAWRYSH ZENIA J. , BERG R. T.
Published: March 2010

The eating quality, cooking losses and chemical composition of semitendinosus (ST) and longissimus dorsi (LD) roasts from 48 young steers weighing 475–513 kg and representing Canada Grade A1 to A4, B1 and an unofficial grade of A1X (dairy-type) beef carcasses were determined. There was a tendency for Grade A4 and A1X ST and LD samples to be higher in percent fat (ether extract) than comparable samples from the other grades. In spite of fat differences in the muscles among grades, subjective evaluation of the eating quality of the roasts by a trained panel indicated that ST and LD roasts from all of the grades were acceptable and quite similar. However, judges did note the presence of larger amounts of fat in those beef samples which contained greater amounts of chemically determined fat (A4, A1X). Consumer panel judgements of ST roasts were similar to those of the trained judges. Objective measurements of juiciness (water-holding capacity) and tenderness (Warner Bratzler shear. Kramer shear) for ST and LD roasts supported the findings from sensory evaluation. Cooking losses for ST and LD roasts did not appear to be affected by grade. These studies provide evidence that the cooking and eating quality characteristics of beef from the various categories of the A grade, from the B1 grade and from the unofficial A1X (dairy-type) grade were similar and that all the beef was acceptable.
COMPARISON OF FABA BEANS (VICIA FABA) WITH SOYBEAN MEAL OR FIELD PEAS (PISUM SATIVUM) AS PROTEIN SUPPLEMENTS IN BARLEY DIETS FOR GROWING–FINISHING PIGS
Authors: CASTELL A. G.
Published: March 2010

Forty-eight Yorkshire pigs were fed, ad libitum, 18% protein diets which contained 0, 7.5, 15 and 30% faba beans (Vicia faba L. cv. Ackerperle), over the growth period from 25 to 90 kg liveweight. An additional 16 pigs were similarly fed diets containing 15% faba beans or 15% field peas (Pisum sativum L. cv. Trapper). In experiment I, replacement of soybean meal (44% protein) by faba beans as the protein supplement resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) linear reduction in growth rate, from 784 g to 727 g/day, and a linear improvement in Carcass Value Index, from 103.5 to 106.5. The latter effect appeared to be a result of a reduction in backfat thickness rather than an increase in areas of lean tissue. Feed to gain ratio of pigs fed the 7.5% faba bean diet (3.30 kg feed/kg gain) was significantly (P < 0.05) better than all other levels examined. In experiment II, significant differences in live performance and in carcass characteristics of pigs fed faba beans or field peas were not detected. Calculation of the replacement value of faba beans, in relation to barley and soybean meal prices, confirmed the conclusions from other studies which suggested that the greatest benefit is obtained when faba beans constitute part but not all of the supplementary protein in diets for growing–finishing pigs.
EFFECTS OF DIETARY COMPOSITION ON THE RELATIVE PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF MALE AND FEMALE PIGS FED FROM 25 KG TO 92 KG LIVEWEIGHT
Authors: CASTELL A. G. , SPURR D. T.
Published: March 2010

One hundred and twenty-four feeder pigs, representing two breed groups (Hampshire × Yorkshire and Yorkshire) were used in three experiments to compare the live performance and carcass characteristics of boars, barrows and gilts fed, from 25 to 92 kg, a 16% protein, barley–soybean meal diet or diets based on a utility grade, soft wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Pitic 62) with 0, 7½ and 15% field peas (Pisum sativum cv. Century) to provide total protein levels of 13, 14 or 15%. Under conditions of adequate nutrition, boars were superior to barrows in efficiency of feed conversion and estimates of carcass leanness, while gilts were intermediate in feed conversion and equivalent to boars in carcass indices. The amount and composition of the diet consumed had a greater effect upon the relative performance of boars and, to a lesser extent, of gilts than was observed with barrows. In addition, the dressing percentage was consistently lower with boars than with barrows or gilts. Sexual odor or taint was not noticeably present in the carcasses at the packing plant, although there was a tendency for meat from boars on restricted feeding to have a higher moisture and darker lean than that present in carcasses from barrows and gilts. The results also suggested that satisfactory performance of growing–finishing pigs could be achieved with diets based on Pitic 62 wheat using field peas as the sole source of supplementary protein.
AN EVALUATION OF MILK REPLACERS BASED ON THE GROWTH RATE, HEALTH AND BLOOD CHEMISTRY OF HOLSTEIN CALVES
Authors: FISHER L. J.
Published: March 2010

Forty male Holstein calves were divided into four groups; one group was offered whole milk and each of the others was given a different milk replacer. All calves were fed at 12% of body weight for 6 wk and a starter ration was fed free choice for the last 3 wk of the trial. Growth rate was 0.58, 0.32, 0.30, and 0.25 kg/day for whole milk and milk replacers B, C, and D, respectively, while the respective intake of calf starter was 0.23, 0.36, 0.34, and 0.38 kg/day of dry matter per calf per day. Feed conversions during the last 3 wk of the experiment were 1.15, 1.66, 1.45, and 1.65 kg of dry matter per kg of gain for whole milk and replacers B, C, and D, respectively. Blood hematocrit was higher for calves fed milk replacer B than for the other three treatments. Blood glucose levels were 123, 96, 107 and 101 mg percent for whole milk and milk replacers B, C, and D, respectively. The relationships between plasma glucose and blood urea nitrogen with growth rate and intake of calf starter were evaluated.
INFLUENCE OF BODY SIZE ON THE BIOLOGICAL EFFICIENCY OF COWS: A REVIEW
Authors: MORRIS C. A. , WILTON J. W.
Published: March 2010

Relationships between body size and the biological efficiency of cows are reviewed in three parts: (1) size and biological efficiency of milk production; (2) size and biological efficiency of beef production; (3) a discussion of some important factors in experimental design, when cattle are of different sizes. Ranges of correlation estimates from different experiments were not always small. The overall relationship between milk yield and body size was 0.33 within breeds of dairy cattle; genetic correlations averaged 0.14. The average correlation of measures of body size with dairy efficiency (milk yield/feed intake) was −0.18, and genetic correlations averaged −0.37. Overall correlations between dairy efficiency and milk yield were large and positive (0.81), and genetic correlations averaged 0.89. In dairy cattle the relationship between milk production and body weight change during lactation was negative. Similarly, in beef cattle, the relationship between calf weaning weight and weight change of cow during lactation was negative. Weaning and yearling weights of calves generally increased with weights of their dams. Biological efficiencies of cow and calf to weaning or yearling weights were superior for small cows, where only combined cow and calf feed requirements and calf weights were considered. When feed requirements for replacements to the breeding herd were included (with extra salvage weight of saleable beef from the breeding herd as cow weight increased), biological efficiency was affected little by cow size unless reproductive performance also changed. Problem areas related to experimental design were the definition of size of cow, the definition of efficiency, and the selection of equitable diets for any given stage in the life cycle.
RESPONSE OF MALE HOLSTEIN CALVES FROM SEVEN SIRES TO FOUR MANAGEMENT STRESSES AS MEASURED BY PLASMA CORTICOID LEVELS
Authors: JOHNSTON J. D. , BUCKLAND R. B.
Published: March 2010

A total of 42 Holstein bull calves from 7 sires were used over three replicates, each lasting for 5 mo, to examine the adrenal cortex response, as measured by plasma corticoid level, to four environmental stresses. The four stresses examined were (1) transportation within the 1st wk of life, (2) water withdrawal for 48 h at 3 mo, (3) castration and dehorning at 4 mo, and (4) transportation at 5 mo of age. Blood samples were taken just prior to each stress (resting), immediately after (except 2), 24 h after (1, 2, 3 and 4) and 48 h after for 3 and 4. Additional resting samples were collected at 1 and 2 mo of age. The average resting plasma adrenal corticoid level was 4.11 ± 0.47 ng/ml, while the average peak plasma corticoid values for the four stresses were 21.77 ± 1.78 ng/ml, 9.61 ± 1.13 ng/ml, 10.11 ± 1.36 ng/ml, and 19.63 ± 2.10 ng/ml, respectively. The adrenal cortex response was significant in the case of both transportation stresses (P < 0.01) and for the castration and dehorning stress (P < 0.05). Forty-eight hours of water withdrawal did not elicit a significant response. Replicate had a significant effect on corticoid levels (P < 0.01), while sire had a significant effect only on the values associated with the second transportation stress (P < 0.01).
PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKS FED TWO DIETARY PROTEIN LEVELS (18 AND 22%), TWO NEEPAWA WHEATS (14.5 AND 21.0% PROTEIN), AND SIX L-LYSINE LEVELS
Authors: GARDINER E. E. , DUBETZ S.
Published: March 2010

Day-old male broiler chicks were fed 14.5 and 21.0% protein Neepawa wheats as ingredients in broiler diets to 4 wk of age. Two levels of dietary protein (18 and 22%) and six levels of added L-lysine HCl (L-lysine) (0.0, 0.06, 0.12, 0.18, 0.24, and 0.30%) were used with each wheat. The desired dietary protein contents were obtained by varying the proportions of the wheats and soybean meal. Body weights and feed-to-gain ratios were significantly affected by the three variables. Within the 18% protein diets, the diet containing 14.5% protein wheat and supplemented with at least 0.18% L-lysine gave maximal growth and most efficient feed conversion. Maximal growth was not obtained on any of the 18% protein diets with 21.0% protein wheat, regardless of L-lysine supplementation. With the 22% protein diets, L-lysine supplementation up to 0.24% of the diet improved the body weight and feed conversions of the chicks when the diet contained 21.0% protein wheat, and generally the results were not different from those obtained when the diet contained the 14.5% protein wheat. L-lysine supplementation of the 22% protein diet containing the 14.5% protein wheat did not significantly affect growth or feed conversion. High-protein wheat supplemented with adequate L-lysine can be fed to chicks and thereby substantially reduce the amount of supplemental protein required.
APPLICATION OF A SCORING PROCEDURE AND TRANSFORMATIONS TO DAIRY TYPE CLASSIFICATION AND BEEF EASE OF CALVING CATEGORICAL DATA
Authors: TONG A. K. W. , WILTON J. W. , SCHAEFFER L. R.
Published: March 2010

An objective scoring procedure was used to assign numerical scores for dairy cow type classification categories and for beef cattle ease of calving codes. The scores derived were (0, 22, 46, 66, 84, 100) for the six categories of final type classification and (0, 38, 100) for the three categories of ease of calving. This scoring procedure attempts to provide homogeneous residual variances over subclasses and to provide residual deviations that are normally distributed. Logarithm and square root variance stabilizing transformations for equally spaced ease of calving scores did not affect sire rankings, but increased the ratio of error to sire variances and reduced heritability estimates compared to untransformed scores.
THE ROLE OF EMBRYO TRANSFER IN CATTLE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS
Authors: CHURCH R. B. , SHEA B. F.
Published: March 2010

Embryo transfer has added a new dimension to animal reproduction and breeding. It is now possible to obtain up to 40 offspring from a selected female in 1 yr. Originally all transfers were done surgically; however, recently, non-surgical embryo recovery has been highly successful. Future developments are required for equal success in non-surgical implantation. The problems in embryo transfer rest with unreliable superovulation, fertilization, embryo and recipient identification. Pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin has shown considerable variation as a superovulating agent when administered to embryo transfer donors with the use of prostaglandin F2α as a leuteolytic agent. Sources of variation in donor and recipient females are discussed, including egg quality, timing of transfer and the use of surgical and non-surgical transfer procedures. With the use of optimal conditions it should be possible to obtain an average of approximately eight pregnancies per successful donor. The role of embryo transfer in beef, dual purpose and dairy improvement programs is discussed. Embryo transfer is currently being used for the expansion of limited gene pools whereas in the future such transfers will be for the successful proliferation of offspring from the mating of genetically superior dams and sires. A doubling of response can be obtained in beef improvement programs where defined objectives can be identified.
TESTS FOR EPI-PROGOITRIN, DERIVED NITRILES, AND GOITRIN IN BODY TISSUES FROM CATTLE FED CRAMBE MEAL
Authors: VANETTEN C. H. , DAXENBICHLER M. E. , SCHROEDER W. , PRINCEN L. H. , PERRY T. W.
Published: March 2010

Beef cattle were fed a ration formulated with up to 10% processed crambe seed meal, which contained varying amounts of the glucosinolate epi-progoitrin (e-PG), unsaturated nitrile [(S) 1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3-butene], and goitrin. Taken at commercial slaughter of the animals, samples of their fat from near the kidney, the kidney, liver, and shoulder muscle tissues contained no detectable e-PG, unsaturated nitrile, episulfide nitriles [isomers 1-cyano-(S)-2-hydroxy-(R)- and (S)-3-epithiobutanes], or goitrin. Examination of gas–liquid (GLC) curves also showed absence of an isomer of goitrin, recently reported to be formed by the action of sheep rumen fluid on progoitrin. Details on the separation of the small amounts of active compounds from the body tissues and on their subsequent GLC analyses are presented. Detection was possible to levels below 1 ppm. Results from spiked body tissues show the sensitivity and the precision that can be expected.
BODY COMPOSITION AND GLYCOGEN RESERVES IN THE NEONATAL PIG DURING THE FIRST 96 HOURS POSTPARTUM
Authors: ELLIOT J. I. , LODGE G. A.
Published: March 2010

Fourteen Yorkshire sows were given either 0.45 or 2.27 kg feed per day from day 100 of gestation until farrowing to determine if short-term nutritional stress during late pregnancy affected the energy reserves or body composition of their piglets at birth or during the early postnatal period (96 h). The diets were formulated so that the intake of trace minerals and vitamins in both groups was the same. Level of feeding from day 100 of gestation affected significantly (P <.01) the weight change of the sows to farrowing, but not birthweight of the piglets, their muscle glycogen levels or their body composition. Piglets from sows fed 2.27 kg/day had significantly (P <.05) higher liver glycogen levels at birth, but this advantage had disappeared by 6 h postpartum. Level of prepartum feeding did not affect the rate of utilization of glycogen by the piglets postpartum. Percentages of fat and protein in the piglets increased and those of water and NFE decreased significantly [Formula: see text] during the 96-h postpartum period.