bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Grocery Bags and Their Alternatives
Authors: Li Bowen , Liu Jinxi , Yu Boxin , Zheng Xiaoyu
Published: April 2022

Plastic grocery bags can casue a variety of environmental problems. Plastic bags pollute the air through their life cycle, from raw material extraction and manufacturing process to the disposal. The raw materials to produce plastic bags are mainly crude oil and natural gas, and the extraction process of those raw materials can cause the emission of a considerable amount of air pollutants to the atmosphere. In addition, plastic bags can also cause water pollution and soil pollution. Countries around the world have issued bans and tax measures to reduce the use of plastic grocery bags. At the same time, a variety of alternative options have been created and promoted to replace the use of plastic bags, including paper bags, jute bags, and other biodegradable bags. Each alternative has its advantages and disadvantages. After analysis of the environmental impacts and the practicability of plastic bags and their alternatives, we evaluated the feasibility of the utilization of alternative grocery bags under difference occasions as well as corresponding policy measures. Finally, we proposed several suggestions to mitigate the problem of plastic bag pollution, including developing new degradable bag technologies and reusing grocery bags.
Flexoelectric effect induced p–n homojunction in monolayer GeSe
Authors: Zheng Jun-Ding , Zhao Yi-Feng , Bao Zhi-Qiang , Shen Yu-Hao , Guan Zhao , Zhong Ni , Yue Fang-Yu , Xiang Ping-Hua , Duan Chun-Gang
Published: April 2022

Recently, two-dimensional in-plane ferroelectric materials group-IV monochalcogenides MX (M = Ge, Sn; X = S, Se) have attracted much attention due to their rich physical properties. Here, we study the flexoelectric effect on the electronic, optical and transport properties in the monolayer germanium selenide (GeSe). We found that bending along the armchair (polarization) direction can separate the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital in the real space and form the type-II band alignment, which can be used to fabricate p–n homojunctions. This outstanding property hints the potential applications of the bending monolayer GeSe for the exciton transport and solar cell, and provides new routines for advanced two-dimensional semiconductor devices.
Effect of ultrasonic rolling on the surface integrity and corrosion properties of GCr15 steel before and after quenching
Authors: Wang Yongchen , Lin Jianghai , Wang Yanshuang , Fu Xiuli
Published: April 2022

Two new surface strengthening processes,Ultrasonic rolling treatment before and after quenching were investigated on GCr15 steel. The surface integrity and corrosion were tested and ABAQUS simulation was conducted for the two processes. As a result, the proposed process is to carry out ultrasonic rolling on the GCr15 after quenching by the small static loads and rolling times. In comparision with the unquenched sample, the quenched sample is more prone to dislocation and slip, resulting in better grain refinement effect. When the static loads and rolling times are small, ultrasonic rolling has a good peak-cutting and valley-filling effect on the quenched sample surface, which leads to the roughness of the quenched samples less than that of the unquenched samples. The initial residual compressive stress in the quenched sample due to heat treatment is greater and deeper than that of the unquenched sample due to large plastic deformation under small static loads or rolling times. The hardness of the unquenched samples is much lower than that of the quenched samples, owing to better grain refinement effect in quenched samples. The corrosion resistance of quenched samples is better than that of unquenched samples.
Complications of Capsulectomies: An Analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database
Authors: Abi-Rafeh Jad , Safran Tyler , Winocour Sebastian , Dionisopoulos Tassos , Davison Peter , Vorstenbosch Joshua
Published: April 2022

Background

Although plastic surgeons commonly perform capsulectomies for a variety of peri-prosthetic capsular conditions, the safety of capsulectomy remains unknown, and the literature lacks evidence describing its morbidity and complication rates for patients inquiring about its associated risks.

Objectives

The present study aims to identify and define the complication rates associated with capsulectomies.

Methods

An analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was performed between the years 2015 and 2018. All information pertaining to demographics, patient-related information, surgical indications, procedure-related information, outcomes, and complications were assessed.

Results

The study identified 2231 cases of surgeon-reported capsulectomies; indications most commonly reported included capsular contracture (n = 638, 28.6%) and breast implant rupture (n = 403, 18.1%). In total, 141 patients (6.32%) were hospitalized for longer than 1 postoperative day (range, 2-28 days), while the overall complication rate was 3.0% (n = 67/2231 patients). Incidence of minor complications, representing superficial surgical site infections, was 0.8%, while the major complication rate was 2.24%. These included 7 cases of deep surgical site infections (0.3%), 19 organ space infections (0.9%), and 8 cases of wound dehiscence (0.4%). Eight patients developed sepsis (0.4%); 6 patients required transfusions (0.3%); 1 case of postoperative pneumonia and 1 myocardial infarction were also identified (n = 1 each, 0.0%). The overall reoperation and readmission rates were 2.0%, representing a readmission rate of 66% among patients with complications.

Conclusions

The present study provides the first estimate of the incidence of complications associated with capsulectomies. Although the NSQIP database contains significant limitations, the data presented herein describe a complication profile that plastic surgeons can share with their patients during informed consent.

Level of Evidence: 4
Deep learning identifies and quantifies recombination hotspot determinants
Authors: Li Yu , Chen Siyuan , Rapakoulia Trisevgeni , Kuwahara Hiroyuki , Yip Kevin Y , Gao Xin
Published: April 2022

Motivation

Recombination is one of the essential genetic processes for sexually reproducing organisms, which can happen more frequently in some regions, called recombination hotspots. Although several factors, such as PRDM9 binding motifs, are known to be related to the hotspots, their contributions to the recombination hotspots have not been quantified, and other determinants are yet to be elucidated. Here, we propose a computational method, RHSNet, based on deep learning and signal processing, to identify and quantify the hotspot determinants in a purely data-driven manner, utilizing datasets from various studies, populations, sexes and species.

Results

RHSNet can significantly outperform other sequence-based methods on multiple datasets across different species, sexes and studies. In addition to being able to identify hotspot regions and the well-known determinants accurately, more importantly, RHSNet can quantify the determinants that contribute significantly to the recombination hotspot formation in the relation between PRDM9 binding motif, histone modification and GC content. Further cross-sex, cross-population and cross-species studies suggest that the proposed method has the generalization power and potential to identify and quantify the evolutionary determinant motifs.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/frankchen121212/RHSNet.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Dual enkephalinase inhibitor PL37 as a potential novel treatment of migraine: evidence from a rat model
Authors: Descheemaeker Amélie , Poras Hervé , Wurm Michel , Luccarini Philippe , Ouimet Tanja , Dallel Radhouane
Published: April 2022

The dual enkephalinase inhibitor PL37, a small molecule that protects enkephalins from rapid degradation, has demonstrated analgesic properties in animal pain models and in early human clinical trials. This study tested the antimigraine potential of PL37 on cutaneous mechanical hypersensitivity affecting cephalic regions in migraineurs.

Using behavioural testing and c-Fos immunoreactivity in male rats, we investigated the effects of single (oral or intravenous) and repeated oral administration of PL37 on changes in cutaneous mechanical sensitivity and sensitization of the trigeminocervical complex induced by repeated administration of the nitric oxide donor, isosorbide dinitrate.

In naïve rats, single or repeated administration of PL37 or vehicle had no effect on cephalic mechanical sensitivity. However, single oral PL37 treatment effectively inhibited isosorbide dinitrate-induced acute cephalic mechanical hypersensitivity. Single intravenous but not oral PL37 administration inhibited chronic cephalic mechanical hypersensitivity. Daily oral administration of PL37 prevented cephalic mechanical hypersensitivity and decreased touch-induced c-Fos expression in trigeminocervical complex following repeated isosorbide dinitrate administration.

These data reveal the therapeutic potential of the dual enkephalinase inhibitor PL37 as an acute and prophylactic treatment for migraine. Protecting enkephalins from their degrading enzymes therefore appears to be an innovative approach to treat migraine.
New inroads into the brain circuits and network dynamics behind sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
Authors: Gonzalez-Sulser Alfredo
Published: April 2022

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Hyperexcitable superior colliculus and fatal brainstem spreading depolarization in a model of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy’ by Cain et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcac006) and ‘Ictal neural oscillatory alterations precede sudden unexpected death in epilepsy’ by Gu et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcac073)
Relationship of normal-weight central obesity with the risk for heart failure and atrial fibrillation: analysis of a nationwide health check-up and claims database
Authors: Ueno Kensuke , Kaneko Hidehiro , Kamiya Kentaro , Itoh Hidetaka , Okada Akira , Suzuki Yuta , Matsuoka Satoshi , Fujiu Katsuhito , Michihata Nobuaki , Jo Taisuke , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Ako Junya , Node Koichi , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Yasunaga Hideo , Komuro Issei
Published: April 2022

Aims

There have been scarce data on the relationship of normal-weight central obesity (NWCO) with the subsequent risk for heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Using a nationwide health check-up and administrative claims database, we sought to clarify whether NWCO would be associated with the incidence of HF and AF.

Methods and results

Medical records of 1 697 903 participants without prior history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and normal-weight (body mass index of 18.5–23.0 kg/m2) were extracted from the JMDC Claims Database, which is a health check-up and claims database. We defined NWCO as normal-weight and CO (waist circumference ≥ 90 cm for men or ≥ 80 cm for women). The median age was 44.0 (37.0–52.0) years and 872 578 (51.4%) participants were men. Overall, 154 778 individuals (9.1%) had CO. The mean follow-up period was 3.3 ± 2.6 years. Participants with NWCO were older and more likely to be women than those without. HF and AF occurred in 26 936 (1.6%) and 6554 (0.4%) participants, respectively. People having NWCO were associated with a greater risk for HF [hazard ratio (HR): 1.072, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.026–1.119] and AF (HR: 1.202, 95% CI: 1.083–1.333) compared with those having normal-weight without CO.

Conclusion

Our analysis of a nationwide health check-up and administrative claims database including ∼1.7 million participants without prevalent CVD history demonstrated the potential impact of NWCO on the risk for HF and AF, suggesting the importance of abdominal obesity in the developing HF and AF even in normal-weight individuals.
The impact of COVID-19 lockdown announcements on mental health: quasi-natural experiment in Lombardy, Italy
Authors: Wang Yuxi , Lugo Alessandra , Amerio Andrea , Cavalieri d’Oro Luca , Iacoviello Licia , Odone Anna , Zucchi Alberto , Gallus Silvano , Stuckler David ,   Lost in Lombardia Project Investigators, Gallus Silvano , Bosetti Cristina , Jarach Carlotta Micaela , Lugo Alessandra , Stival Chiara , Serafini Gianluca , Amerio Andrea , Amore Mario , Stuckler David , De Sena Roberto , Ghislandi Simone , Wang Yuxi , Iacoviello Licia , Bonaccio Marialaura , Gianfagna Francesco , Ghulam Anwal , Odone Anna , Signorelli Carlo , Bertuccio Paola , Mosconi Giansanto , Vigezzi Giacomo Pietro , d'Oro Luca Cavalieri , Rognoni Magda , Scala Marco , Zucchi Alberto , Ciampichini Roberta
Published: April 2022

Background

Evidence showed that mental health problems have risen markedly during COVID-19. It is unclear if part of the mental sufferings relates to the climate of uncertainty and confusion originated from rough communication by health officials and politicians. Here, we test the impact of unanticipated policy announcements of lockdown policies on mental health of the older population.

Methods

We used a representative telephone-based survey of 4400 people aged 65 years or older in Italy’s Lombardy region to compare information on self-reported symptoms of anxiety, depression and poor-quality sleep of subjects interviewed on the days of the policy announcement with that of subjects interviewed on other days. We used regression models adjusting for potential socio-demographic confounders as well study design with inverse probability weighting.

Results

On days when policymakers announced to extend the lockdown, mental health deteriorated on average by 5.5 percentage points [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1–9.8] for self-reported anxiety symptoms and 5.1 percentage points (95% CI: 2.7–7.4) for self-reported depressive symptoms. The effect of the announcement to shorten the lockdown is more moderate but statistically significant. These associations were short term in duration; after just 1 day, self-reported mental health and sleep quality return to levels better than pre-announcement until a new policy change.

Conclusions

Our research shows that lockdown policy announcements are associated with short-term worsening in mental distress, highlighting the importance of appropriate communication strategies and political determinations in crisis times.
There and back again; historical perspective and future directions for Vaccinium breeding and research studies
Authors: Edger Patrick P , Iorizzo Massimo , Bassil Nahla V , Benevenuto Juliana , Ferrão Luis Felipe V , Giongo Lara , Hummer Kim , Lawas Lovely Mae F , Leisner Courtney P , Li Changying , Munoz Patricio R , Ashrafi Hamid , Atucha Amaya , Babiker Ebrahiem M , Canales Elizabeth , Chagné David , DeVetter Lisa , Ehlenfeldt Mark , Espley Richard V , Gallardo Karina , Günther Catrin S , Hardigan Michael , Hulse-Kemp Amanda M , Jacobs MacKenzie , Lila Mary Ann , Luby Claire , Main Dorrie , Mengist Molla F , Owens Gregory L , Perkins-Veazie Penelope , Polashock James , Pottorff Marti , Rowland Lisa J , Sims Charles A , Song Guo-qing , Spencer Jessica , Vorsa Nicholi , Yocca Alan E , Zalapa Juan
Published: April 2022

The genus Vaccinium L. (Ericaceae) contains a wide diversity of culturally and economically important berry crop species. Consumer demand and scientific research in blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) and cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) have increased worldwide over the crops’ relatively short domestication history (~100 years). Other species, including bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), and ohelo berry (Vaccinium reticulatum) are largely still harvested from the wild but with crop improvement efforts underway. Here, we present a review article on these Vaccinium berry crops on topics that span taxonomy to genetics and genomics to breeding. We highlight the accomplishments made thus far for each of these crops, along their journey from the wild, and propose research areas and questions that will require investments by the community over the coming decades to guide future crop improvement efforts. New tools and resources are needed to underpin the development of superior cultivars that are not only more resilient to various environmental stresses and higher yielding, but also produce fruit that continue to meet a variety of consumer preferences, including fruit quality and health related traits.
Is Time on Smartphones Well Spent?
Authors: Rasmussen Maria A , Frydendahl Julie O , Mekler Elisa D , Hornbæk Kasper
Published: April 2022

The time we each spend using smartphones is increasing. So is the extent of discussions on whether that time is well spent and whether it results in positive experiences and ultimately improves well-being. However, research on this question rarely links the time spent on smartphones, the specific applications used, the motivation for using them and their effects on well-being. We had 70 participants compare experiences with a frequently used smartphone application and an occasionally used one. The participants used the Screen Time feature of the iPhone to select the applications and provided qualitative and quantitative data on their use of the applications. The findings show that the experience of pragmatic and hedonic value differs between the two application types, as does the experience of regret. The motivation for using the applications also in'uences whether the time is experienced as well spent. We use these findings to nuance the general discussion of smartphone usage and well-being.
11 Determination of Milk Concentrations and Pharmacokinetics of Salicylic Acid Following Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin) Administration in Postpartum Dairy Cows
Authors: Fritz Bailey R , Kleinhenz Michael D , Montgomery Shawnee R , Magnin Geraldine , Martin Miriam S , Weeder Mikaela , Curtis Andrew K , Coetzee Johann F
Published: April 2022

Administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as the widely available drug aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), may improve health and milk production in postpartum dairy cows. However, plasma pharmacokinetic (PK) data for salicylic acid (SA), the active metabolite of ASA, are unrepresentative of lactating dairy cows and current treatment regimens, and there are currently no published milk residue and minimal pharmacodynamic data available for ASA or SA in dairy cows. The objectives of this descriptive study were to (1) describe the pharmacokinetics of SA in the milk and plasma of postpartum dairy cows following oral ASA administration; (2) to estimate a milk withdrawal period for dairy cows treated with ASA; and (3) to determine the impact of ASA on plasma prostaglandin E2 metabolite (PGEM) concentrations. Primiparous (n = 3) and multiparous (n = 7) postpartum Holstein dairy cows received 2 oral treatments with ASA at 200 mg/kg, 24 h apart. Plasma and milk SA concentrations from 0 h through 120 h after ASA administration were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Plasma PK analysis was performed using a non-compartmental approach using the free software, PKSolver, in Excel. An estimated milk withdrawal interval of 168 h was determined using the FDA Milk Discard App in R (RStudio, Boston, MA) using a 99th percentile upper tolerance limit with 95% confidence. Plasma PGEM concentrations from 0 h to 24 h after ASA administration were determined in duplicate using ELISA and were reduced compared with baseline for up to 12 h after ASA administration. A mean reduction in PGEM of -49.3% was observed at 2 h. Results from this study suggest that the current milk withhold recommendation of 24 h for dairy cows administered ASA should be revised and that ASA administration may mitigate postpartum inflammation through reduction in prostaglandin production.
9 Evaluation of Predictive Models to Determine Total Morbidity Outcome of Feedlot Cattle Based on Pen-Level Feed Delivery Data During the First 15 Days on Feed
Authors: Heinen Lilli , Lancaster Phillip A , White Brad J , Zwiefel Erik
Published: April 2022

Changes in feeding behavior and intake have been used to identify bovine respiratory disease in individual animals, but not at the pen level. Correctly identifying high morbidity pens early in the feeding period could facilitate interventions to improve health and economic outcomes. The objective was to determine the ability of feed delivery data from the first 15 d on feed to predict total feeding period morbidity. Data consisted of 518 pens (10 feedlots, 56,796 animals). Overall morbidity was classified into high (>15% total morbidity) or low categories with 18.5% of pens having high morbidity. Five predictive algorithms (advanced perceptron, decision forest, logistic regression, neural network, and boosted decision tree) were utilized to predict overall morbidity given arrival (body weight, timing, gender) and feeding characteristics. The dataset was split into training (75%) and testing (25%) subsets. Algorithms were generated in Microsoft Azure and evaluated based on accuracy, sensitivity (Sn, the ability to accurately detect high morbidity pens), and specificity (Sp, the ability to accurately detect low morbidity pens). The decision forest had the highest Sp (97%) with the greatest ability to accurately identify low morbidity lots (103 of 106 identified correctly), but this model had low Sn (33%). The logistic regression and neural network had good Sn (both 63%) with the best ability to correctly identify high morbidity lots (15 of 24 correctly identified), but a decreased Sp (69 and 72%, respectively). Three models provided feature importance data demonstrating that percent change in feed delivery between days and over 4-d moving averages were of great importance. The most frequent variable with a high level of importance among models was the percent change from d 2 to 3 after arrival. In conclusion, feed delivery data during the first 15 d on feed was an important predictor of total pen-level morbidity.
4 Variation in Sow Body Temperature Following Weaning
Authors: Willard Naomi C , Moest Nicole K , Vande Pol Katherine D , Shull Caleb M , Pimpinella Rich , Grein Christoph , Ellis Michael
Published: April 2022

There is limited data available on variation in sow temperature following weaning. The objective of this study was to determine variation (diurnal and with day post-weaning) in rectal (RT) and vulva surface (VT) temperature following weaning. A cross-sectional survey was carried out using 114 multi-parous sows weaned in 7 groups between September and December. Sows were housed in individual stalls and were checked daily for standing reflex from d 4 to 8 post-weaning. Sow RT (measured with a standard thermometer) and VT (measured with an infrared thermal camera) were measured daily [at 06:15 (feeding time), 07:00, 07:30 (heat checking time), 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, 21:00, and 23:00]. A repeated-measures analysis was carried out using PROC MIXED of SAS; models included the fixed effect of either study day or measurement time, and random effect of group. The number of sows exhibiting standing reflex on d 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 post-weaning was 1, 45, 45, 19, 1, respectively; 3 sows did not exhibit standing reflex. Average VT and RT over the study period were 30.8 ± 3.23 and 38.2 ± 0.60°C, respectively; the correlation between these measurements was 0.08 (P < 0.05). There was considerable day-to-day variation in average VT (range between day: 29.5 to 32.6°C) and to a lesser extent RT (range: 37.7 to 38.5°C). The VT was higher (P < 0.05) on d 3 to 5 post-weaning compared with other days. Also, VT was higher (P < 0.05) between 06:15 and 07:30 than at the other measurement times. There was no clear pattern for either day-to-day or diurnal variation in RT. In conclusion, this study described between-sow variation in RT and VT following weaning. Further research is needed to determine if any of this variation in temperature is associated with the onset of estrus.
10 Development of an Essential Oil-Based Intranasal Spray Against Bovine Respiratory Pathogens: in vitro Selection Based on Antimicrobial, Antiviral, Immunomodulatory, and Antibiofilm Activities
Authors: Amat Samat , Rakibuzzaman A G M , Holman Devin , Schmidt Kaycie , Kosel Luke , Ramamoorthy Sheela
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study was to screen and select candidate essential oils (EOs) for the development of an intranasal EO spray against bacterial and viral pathogens associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD) as an alternative to antibiotics. The effects of previously selected EOs (N = 6; ajowan, cinnamon leaf, citronella, grapefruit, fennel, and thyme) on bovine nasopharyngeal microbiota culture was evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The microbiota culture was prepared by growing nasopharyngeal swabs obtained from finishing beef heifers in brain heart infusion broth with and without the presence of EOs (0.025%, vol/vol). The sequencing was performed on genomic DNA extracted from the microbiota culture harvested after 24 h incubation. These EOs were then evaluated for their immunomodulation effect on bovine turbinate (BT) cells by analyzing the concentrations of 15 cytokines and chemokines in cell culture after 24 h incubation. The EOs were further characterized by assessing their antibiofilm activity against E. coli UMN026 using a crystal violet assay. Finally, 15 EOs were screened for their antiviral activity against the bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 (BVDV1) using BT cells and a fluorescence-based method. Ajowan, fennel, and thyme resulted in a moderate reduction of overall nasopharyngeal microbiota growth, and significant alterations of both α- and β-diversity, and relative abundance of predominant bacterial families (e.g., boosting Enterobacteriaceae while suppressing Moraxellaceae) compared with control (P < 0.05). Only IL-6 and IL-8 cytokine concentrations were affected by EOs (P < 0.05). Ajowan, thyme, fennel, and cinnamon leaf exhibited antibiofilm activity at the concentration of 0.05%. Reduction of BVDV1 viral replication on BT cells was observed with thyme (strong), ajowan, and citronella (moderate; 0.0125%). Accordingly, ajowan, thyme, fennel, cinnamon leaf, and citronella EOs were selected for development as an intranasal EO spray to prevent and control BRD pathogens in feedlot cattle.
2 5’ Untranslated Region-Based Detection of Genetically Diverse APPV Strains in US Midwest
Authors: Eaton Christian , Sutton Kylee , Mote Benny E , Burkey Thomas E , Borza Tudor , Loy J Dustin , Ciobanu Daniel C
Published: April 2022

Atypical porcine pestivirus (APPV), an RNA virus member of the Flaviviridae family, has been associated with congenital tremor in newborn piglets. Previous qPCR-based assays, targeting the polyprotein coding sequences of APPV, were unable to detect the virus in novel cases of congenital tremor originated from multiple swine farms from the U.S. Midwest (MW). The polyprotein coding genes of APPV were characterized by a low level of sequence conservation ranging from 58.2 to 70.7% among 15 global APPV strains. In contrast, the 5’ untranslated region (UTR) was found to have a much greater degree of sequence conservation of 81.0% seen among the 15 global and new 4 MW strains, and as high as 91.5% when comparing only 5 MW strains. The complete 5’ UTR sequence of the APPV strains originated from MW was obtained by utilizing the template switching approach followed by amplification and dideoxy sequencing. Notably, previously identified potentially crucial regions for the correct function of the APPV internal ribosome entry site (IRES) were found to overlap with the most highly conserved 5’UTR segments, suggesting their functional role in viral protein translation. By targeting 100% conserved 5’UTR regions across 19 global and MW strains, a new qPCR assay was designed which was able to detect APPV in well documented cases of congenital tremor which originated from 5 MW farm sites (1-18 samples/site). The assay was found to have a detection sensitivity of 6.5 APPV copies (Cq ~38.4). Due to the potential functional importance of the highly conserved 5’UTR sequences targeted by our newly developed qPCR assay, we expect that assays targeting this region would broadly detect APPV strains that are diverse in space and time.
56 Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation Throughout Gestation Affects Liver Trace Mineral Status of Dam and Neonatal Calves but not Calf Morphometric Characteristics
Authors: Hurlbert Jennifer L , Baumgaertner Friederike , Bochantin Kerri A , Menezes Ana Clara Baiao B , Da Diniz Wellison Jarles Silva , Underdahl Sarah R , Kirsch James D , Dorsam Sheri T , Sedivec Kevin K , Dahlen Carl R
Published: April 2022

Objectives were to evaluate the effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplementation (VMSUP) to heifers throughout gestation on trace mineral status of the dam and calf, calving parameters, and calf characteristics. We hypothesized that VMSUP throughout gestation would enhance mineral status in the dam and offspring at birth and positively impact calf morphometric characteristics. Thirty-one Angus-based heifers (body weight [BW]=273.7 ± 1.10 kg) were estrous synchronized, bred with female sexed semen, then were randomly assigned to either a basal diet targeting gain of 0.45 kg/d (CON; n=14) or the basal diet plus a vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM; n=17; 113 g•heifer-1•d-1). Liver biopsies were obtained from dams at breeding, d 84 and 180 of gestation, and at calving from dams and calves. Trace mineral concentrations were determined via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Calving ease, calf vigor and body weight were recorded at birth, and body measurements were recorded at 24 h after birth. Data were analyzed using the GLM Procedure of SAS using repeated measures analysis when appropriate. In maternal liver, concentrations of selenium and copper were affected by a treatment × day interaction (P < 0.0001), being greater (P < 0.001) for VTM than CON at all post-breeding timepoints and decreasing (P ≤ 0.05) from d 84 to calving; while zinc, molybdenum, manganese, and cobalt were not (P ≥ 0.20) affected by treatment. In calves, concentrations of liver selenium, copper, zinc, and cobalt were greater for VTM than CON (P < 0.05). Gestation length, calving distribution, ease and vigor scores, calf BW and body measurements were not affected by treatment (P = 0.278). Therefore, VTM supplementation throughout gestation affected liver trace mineral reserves of dam and calf; but did not affect calf size or any of the calving parameters evaluated. These results suggest that as gestation progresses, maternal liver mineral stores decrease to provide for the gestating calf.
53 Evaluating the Efficacy of Boot Baths with Wet and Dry Disinfectants for Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Harrison Olivia , Elijah Catherine Grace , Blomme Allison K , Ottot Haley , Bai Jianfa , Poulsen-Porter Elizabeth , Woodworth Jason C , Paulk Chad B , Gebhardt Jordan T , Jones Cassandra K
Published: April 2022

Maintaining biosecurity between barns is challenging. Boot baths, either wet or dry, can be implemented to limit pathogen spread. The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of boot baths using wet or dry disinfectants for porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Treatments included 1) control, 2) wet disinfectant (Synergize, Neogen, Lexington, KY), and 3) dry disinfectant (Traffic C.O.P., PSP, LLC, Rainsville, AL). Prior to disinfection, 0.5 mL of both PRRSV (~1×105 TCID50/mL) and PEDV (~1×105 TCID50/mL) was placed onto a new boot with a layer of autoclaved corn dust and allowed to dry for 15 minutes. After the mixture dried, the boot was put on and stepped into its respective boot bath. After 3 seconds, the boot was lifted out of the bath and stepped onto a stainless-steel coupon to simulate walking through a facility. Both boot and coupon were allowed to dry for 1 minute before swabs were taken from both surfaces. Samples were analyzed in a duplex PCR at the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Cycle threshold values were analyzed using SAS GLIMMIX v 9.4 (SAS, Inc., Cary, NC). There was no evidence of a treatment×surface×virus interaction (P > 0.10). The interaction between treatment×surface impacted (P < 0.05) the quantity of detectable RNA. The control had greater concentration of virus on the coupon than the boot. The reverse was true for boots treated with wet disinfectant, where the boot had a greater concentration of virus than the coupon. Treatment×virus also impacted detectable RNA (P < 0.05), where wet and control boots had greater quantities of PEDV RNA than PRRSV. There was no detectable virus when dry disinfectant was used. For this trial, dry disinfectant was the most efficacious in reducing the viral RNA on both boots and subsequent surfaces; however, further research in commercial settings is warranted.
55 The Effect of Feeding 0.3% Benzoic Acid to Growing Pigs, Alone or in Combination with a Direct-Fed Microbial, on Nutrient Metabolism and Manure Composition and Emissions Compared with a Low Protein Diet
Authors: Humphrey Dalton C , Bergstrom Jon R , Perez-Calvo Estefania , Trabue Steven , Scoggin Kenwood , Ramirez Brett C , Greiner Laura L
Published: April 2022

Twenty-four gilts (PIC 337X1050, PIC Genus, Hendersonville, TN) with initial bodyweight (BW) 33.09±1.33kg were used to investigate the effects of benzoic acid (BA), with or without a Bacillus-based direct-fed microbial (DFM), on the nutrient metabolism and gas emissions of growing pigs. Pigs were blocked by BW, placed into metabolism stalls, and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments: control (PC), low nitrogen (NC), PC plus 0.3% BA (VevoVitall, DSM Nutritional Products), and PC plus 0.3% BA and 0.025% DFM (PureGro, DSM Nutritional Products). The 54-d experiment consisted of 4 collection periods, with each period subdivided into 2 sub-periods to measure manure gas emissions and nutrient balance and digestibility. Gas emissions sub-periods lasted 72h. Twice daily, urine and feces were weighed, and urine pH was measured. Urine and feces were stored together and, after 5 d of storage, manure was subsampled and taken to the lab for gas emissions measurements. Urine and feces were quantitatively collected for 96h to measure nutrient digestibility (ATTD), excretion, and retention. Data were analyzed as repeated measures in SAS. Pig was the experimental unit, and results were significant at P ≤ 0.05. Pigs fed BA had greater ADG (922g/d) than pigs fed NC (849g/d), with intermediate ADG for PC (882g/d) or BA+DFM (906g/d). The ATTD of DM, GE, and CP was similar among treatments; however, pigs fed BA or NC excreted less nitrogen in urine than PC and BA+DFM, resulting in greater nitrogen retention in BA compared with PC. Decreased manure pH from pigs fed BA or NC resulted in lower NH3emissions compared with BA+DFM or PC. Manure H2S, CH4, and CO2 emissions were similar among treatments. In conclusion, BA improved nitrogen retention and reduced manure pH and ammonia emissions similarly to feeding low crude protein but improved ADG when compared with a low crude protein diet.
58 Energy Values of Faba Beans and Field Peas Fed to Growing Pigs
Authors: Adekoya Abidemi A , Adeola Olayiwola
Published: April 2022

Faba beans (FB) and field peas (FP) are pulses and variation among cultivars may lead to differences in the response of pigs. Hence, information on the digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) of different cultivars is important. Two experiments (Exp) were conducted with growing pigs to determine the DE and ME of organic FB and Ds-Admiral FP (FPD) in Exp. 1, Hampton FP (FPH) and 4010 FP (FP4) in Exp. 2 using total collection method. Twenty-four barrows were individually housed in metabolism crates and assigned to 3 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with BW as blocking factor in each study. The reference diet was prepared to contain corn, soybean meal, and soybean oil as the sole sources of energy and the test ingredient was added to the reference diet at 300 g/kg. Daily feed allowance was estimated at 4.5% of mean BW of pigs in each block. On d 6 and 11, a marker was added to the first meal fed to the pigs and collection of feces started at the appearance of first marker in feces and stopped at the appearance of second marker. During this period, urine was quantitatively collected. In Exp. 1, diets containing FB or FPD had less (P < 0.01) DE and ME compared with the reference diet. The respective DE and ME were 3,772 and 3,603 kcal/kg DM in FB and 3,683 and 3,542 kcal/kg DM in FPD. In Exp. 2, diets containing FP4 had less (P < 0.01) DE and ME compared with FPH and reference diet. The DE and ME were 4,164 and 4,014 kcal/kg DM in FPH and 3,574 and 3,467 kcal/kg DM in FP4, respectively. In conclusion, the estimated energy values in FB and FP may be used in diet formulation.
65 Evaluation of Essential Fatty Acids in Lactating Sow Diets on Sow Reproductive Performance, Colostrum and Milk Composition, and Pre-Weaning Litter Growth and Survivability
Authors: Holen Julia P , Woodworth Jason C , Tokach Mike D , Goodband Robert D , DeRouchey Joel M , Gebhardt Jordan T , DeDecker Ashley , Martinez Xochitl
Published: April 2022

Mixed parity sows (n = 3,451; PIC, Hendersonville, TN) and their litters were used to evaluate the effects of essential fatty acid (EFA) intake on sow reproductive performance, piglet growth and survivability, and colostrum and milk composition. At approximately d 112 of gestation, sows were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 corn-soybean meal-wheat-based lactation diets with 0.5 (Control) or 3% choice white grease (CWG), 3% soybean oil (SO), or a combination of 3% soybean oil and 2% choice white grease (Combination). Thus, sows were provided diets with low EFA [linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA)] in diets with CWG or high EFA in diets with SO. Lactation ADFI increased (P < 0.05) for sows fed the Combination and CWG diets compared with sows fed the Control or SO diet. Daily LA and ALA intake of sows fed the Combination and SO diets were greater (P < 0.05) than sows fed 0.5 or 3% CWG. Overall, sows consuming high EFA from the Combination or SO diets produced litters with heavier (P < 0.05) piglet weaning weights and greater (P < 0.05) litter ADG when compared with litters from sows fed diets with low EFA provided through CWG. There was no effect of sow EFA intake on piglet survivability (P > 0.10). Lactation diet EFA concentration did not influence colostrum or milk dry matter, crude protein, or crude fat content (P>0.10). However, LA and ALA content in colostrum and milk at weaning increased (P < 0.05) in response to elevated dietary EFA from SO. There was no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) in subsequent sow reproductive or litter performance due to previous lactation EFA intake. In conclusion, increased LA and ALA intake provided by SO during lactation increased overall litter growth and pig weaning weights but did not affect piglet survivability or subsequent performance.
78 Determination for Optimal Time for Marketing in Gilts Immunized Against Gonadotropin-Releasing Factor Based Upon Production Measurements
Authors: Vonnahme Kimberly A , Amodie Debbie , Mellencamp Martha , Pollmann Steve , Pantoja Lucina Galina
Published: April 2022

Gilts immunized against gonadotropin-releasing factor (GnRF) gain weight faster and have improved carcass characteristics compared to controls. The objective was to determine the optimal time post second dose (PSD) of anti-GnRF for feed efficiency. Treatments were arranged as a 2×4 factorial: control vs anti-GnRF (d7 and 77; d0 = 8 wk of age) and marketing time PSD anti-GnRF: (first cut: 10 heaviest gilts; last cut: remaining gilts): d18 and 39 PSD; d25 and 46 PSD; d32 and 53 PSD; and d39 and 60 PSD. Pen (n=120) was the experimental unit (12-18 pens per treatment; 21 gilts per pen). At 25 wks of age, 52.5±0.05% of control gilts vs. 0.92±0.01% of anti-GnRF gilts were cycling based on ovarian structures. Regardless of treatment, gilts performed similarly until PSD anti-GnRF. Prior to the first cut (i.e., d95), there was an increase (P < 0.01) in weight (120.6 vs. 121.7 ±0.52 kg), ADG (0.973 vs. 0.984 ±0.003 kg/d), and ADFI (2.42 vs. 2.45 ±0.01 kg/d) with similar (P = 0.98) G:F (0.40 vs. 0.40 ±0.001). Live weights sold were similar at 18 and 25 days PSD, but anti-GnRF had increased (P≤0.05) weights at 32 and 39 days PSD for first-cut gilts. In final cut gilts, anti-GnRF gilts were heavier (P≤0.05) at d39, 46, and 60 PSD. When ADG, ADFI, and G:F were calculated from d81 (i.e., 4 days PSD anti-GnRF) to market, ADG and ADFI was greater (P≤0.05) in anti-GnRF vs. control gilts. In first-cut gilts, G:F was similar between anti-GnRF and control gilts at 18, 25, and 32 days PSD, with poorer (P≤0.05) G:F in anti-GnRF gilts at d39. At final cut, G:F was less (P≤0.05) at 53 and 60 days PSD compared to control. To optimize feed efficiency, it is recommended that gilts are marketed between 25 and 46 d PSD anti-GnRF.
263 Improvest Improves Gilt Performance
Authors: Vasquez-Hidalgo Manuel A , Vonnahme Kimberly A , Pollmann Steve , Amodie Debbie , Pantoja Lucina Galina , Mellencamp Martha
Published: April 2022

Improvest (Zoetis, Parsippany NJ) is approved in the U.S for temporary suppression of estrus in gilts. Estrus suppression has secondary performance benefits, including increased average daily feed intake (ADFI), which leads to greater average daily gain (ADG), greater final body weight (FW), and improved group uniformity. Based on 4 recent (2016 to 2021) peer-reviewed articles (Brazil, Belgium, and Spain) and 5 Zoetis studies (USA and Canada), this summary quantifies the arithmetic mean (average) percent increase and the 95% confidence interval for ADFI, ADG, FW and hot carcass weight (HCW) of Improvest-treated gilts compared with untreated control gilts. The confidence interval (CI) was calculated in Microsoft Excel based on the average, standard deviation of the population, and the number of data points (measurements) for each parameter. Results showed that Improvest-treated gilts had a 3.2% (CI: 2.78% - 3.71%) increase in FW and 3.1% (CI: 2.49% - 3.91%) increase in HCW compared with controls. Overall ADG was increased by 4.4% (CI: 3.53% - 5.31%), with an 11.7% (CI: 68.7% - 14.66%) increase after the second dose. Similarly, Improvest-treated gilts showed an increase in overall ADFI of 6.1% (CI: 4.59% - 7.53%), and 12.8% (CI: 11.41% - 14.13%) increase after the second dose. There were no significant differences in overall feed efficiency (FE) in any of the studies. The rapid increase in ADFI occurs 7-10 d after the 2nd Improvest dose. Feed supplies must be managed carefully during this period to avoid out-of-feed events and capitalize on the increased ADG. This summary provides producers with solid estimates of the performance benefits associated with estrus suppression in gilts. Improvest clearly demonstrated an increase in HCW in gilts across all studies. Strategic use of Improvest has the potential to mitigate slow growth and reduced ADFI that is seen in the summer heat. TU-07020
76 Awardee Talk: Maternal Immune Activation Impacts Offspring Immune Function but not Muscle
Authors: Bryan Erin , Smith Brooke N , Chen Xiaofei , Dilger Ryan N , Dilger Anna
Published: April 2022

Gestational health challenges may influence growth performance and immunity of offspring pigs during postnatal life. In particular, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is endemic in the U.S. herd, but its effects on surviving piglets are largely unknown. Further, dietary supplementation with soy isoflavones lessened the severity of PRRSV infections in weaning and growing pigs. Therefore, the goals of this study were to determine the impact of maternal PRRSV infection on offspring muscle and immune development and the potential of isoflavones to mitigate those effects. Thirteen first parity gilts were randomly allotted to 1 of 3 treatments: fed a diet devoid of isoflavones and not infected (CON), fed the control diet and infected with PRRSV (POS), and fed the control diet supplemented with 1,500-ppm soy isoflavones and infected with PRRSV (ISF). Isoflavone supplementation reduced (P = 0.04) viral load in dams 21d after infection, but did not alter (P > 0.05) feed disappearance and rectal temperature. Piglet mortality was increased (P = 0.04) by PRRSV infection in dams, and surviving piglets were infected with PRRSV throughout the study. Interestingly, muscle and organ weights were not different (P > 0.05) among treatments at postnatal d (PND) 3 with the exception of relative liver weight which was increased (P = 0.04) in POS compared with CON, with ISF being intermediate. Infected litters were lighter (P = 0.02) at PND 21, likely due to postnatal infection. Interestingly, at PND 21 relative liver weight was increased (P < 0.01) in ISF compared with CON and POS. Muscle fiber number and size did not differ between treatments (P ≥ 0.39). Piglets born to infected dams had slower responses during innate immune stimulation (P < 0.01) and also had shifts in T cell populations compared with CON pigs (P ≤ 0.02), indicating an inadequate vaccine response. Overall, maternal infection altered offspring immune responses but not muscle fiber development. Isoflavone supplementation did not mitigate these effects.
89 Practical Screening of Enzymes in Pigs Fed Diets Containing High Dried Distillers’ Grain (DDG)
Authors: Kitt Steve J , Bertram Mark J , Higgins Niall , Duong Tri , Moya Sara Llamas
Published: April 2022

After two decades of using corn dried distillers’ grains (DDG) in swine diets, there is still a general perception that although exogenous enzymes may increase digestibility of various nutrients, it is often difficult to translate these benefits into performance improvements. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of 3 enzyme blends on the performance of pigs fed a high DDG grower-finisher diet. Pigs (n = 2,048; average start weight 10.5 ± 0.01 kg) were allotted to 64 pens with 32 pigs/pen, split by sex equally within each replicate. Pens were assigned randomly to 1 of 4 treatment groups and fed a corn-soybean meal-DDG diet formulated to meet or exceed NRC (2012) requirements. Dietary concentration of DDG varied according to BW as follows: 15% (9-16kg), 25% (16-24kg), 38% (24-45kg), 50% (45-69kg), 35% (69-90kg) and 26% (90kg to market). Treatments 2, 3 and 4 contained enzyme preparations based on cellulase, xylanase and a combination of cellulase/xylanase, respectively, dosed at 200 g/MT. Pigs were followed to market, with key performance indicators measured throughout. Data were analyzed as a RCBD, using pen as the experimental unit and treatment as the main effect. Treatment had no effect on BW or ADG through 113 d from study start (P > 0.10). Significant differences in ADFI indicated that all enzyme treatments (T2-T4) reduced feed consumption (P < 0.05). Feed efficiency (G:F) was significantly improved by enzyme supplementation, with the largest improvements observed in T4 (P < 0.001). These results suggest that enzyme supplementation, particularly a cellulase/xylanase preparation (T4), may improve feed efficiency of growing-finishing pigs fed high DDG diets. Therefore, this enzyme mixture may represent a feasible strategy to increase the value of DDG in swine diets.