bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation of Apartments to Small Hotels: The Case of Nakhon Si Thammarat Thailand
Authors: Riratanaphong Chaiwat , Kaewchan Chutima
Published: December 2019

The support of tourism industry from Thai government leads to the increasing demand and development of accommodation in the less visited cities including Nakhon Si Thammarat, which has been mostly visited in comparison to the other less visited cities since 2017. There is a high demand in small hotel accommodation type in Nakhon Si Thammarat whereas apartment buildings are oversupplied and becoming obsolete. This study aims to propose a step-by-step process for the adaptation of apartments to small hotels in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. Research method includes interviews with tourists, small hotel developers, the apartment developer and the expert in the adaptation of buildings to small hotels. The findings show the alignments between data from the interviews and what have been found in the literature that were developed to a proposed step-by-step process on the adaptation of apartments to small hotels. This study provides the adaptation process based on the case of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. More cases are required to test the step-by-step process in order to increase the validity and to make further progress. Further study could focus on feasibility analysis and the implementation of the step-by-step process in other cities to find out the similarities and dissimilarities regarding the different contexts of the cases.
Reshaping Dormitory by Modular Steel Structure
Authors: Luo Yu , Cheng Dongwei , Yu Hang
Published: December 2019

Modular steel structure with a 100% assembly rate, is one of significant methods to realize building industrialization. It has an extensive application prospect due to the short construction cycle and small impact on the surrounding environment.. Based on the characteristics of modular architecture, this paper takes the work of the 2018 Chinese College Students Steel Structure Innovation Competition as an example to discuss the design possibilities of student dormitories. However, due to production mode and transportation conditions, modular building also has some limitations for application. Through research on design, this paper makes the breakthroughs in the design limitations of modular building.
Research on Body and Architecture
Authors: Li Linxue , Zhang Qi , He Meiting
Published: December 2019

The topic of body is closely related to architecture. Based on the Anthony Vidler’s and others’ study on the relationship between body and architecture, this paper studies the relationship between body and architecture from a historical perspective, including the concept of body in philosophical context, the projection of body in classical architecture, and the metaphor of body in postmodern architecture. The theory of body has had an important influence on the architectural form at the beginning of the development of architecture, and then expanded the understanding of architecture at different stages. Recently, with the environmental issues and sustainable development getting more and more attention, the relationship between body theory and architecture will also face new development potentials and opportunities. Reconsidering architecture from the perspective of body perception and paying attention to the interaction between psychology and environment is an opportunity for the development of body and architecture, which may lead to theoretical and practical guidance of more contemporary significance.
Validation of Bridge Scour HEC RAS Model Using Propagation Error Analysis
Authors: Billy  , Marthanty Dwinanti R , Sjah Jessica
Published: December 2019

The scouring phenomenon is one of the causes of bridge damage in the world. This scouring phenomenon has various kinds such as local scour and contraction scour. There are various equations for calculating pier scouring, including Colorado State University equations, Frochelin and others. A computer program is needed to facilitate the calculation of pier scouring, HEC-RAS based on Finite Difference Method was chosen to simulate pier scouring problem. Up until now, there has not been any research to quantify the uncertainty of bridge scour HEC RAS based of experiment. The objective of this study to validate the pier scouring calculation by comparing the expected value of pier scouring results of HEC-RAS with an experiment and CSU equation. The HEC-RAS was evaluated using experimental data that had been carried out by Shukri in 2017. Furthermore purpose of this study is determining which the variable that is sensitive to the depth of scouring. The sensitive variables are determined by performing sensitivity analysis of the variables on HEC-RAS using the Pearson correlation coefficient method and regression analysis. Error propagation is done to get the uncertainty value from pier scouring due to the influence of sensitive variables.
A Multistage Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Model based on AHP for Construction Enterprises through Value Chain Analysis
Authors: Guo Daoyi
Published: December 2019

The comprehensive performance evaluation for engineering project has received much consideration from academic and corporate over the past decade, developing rapidly and becoming a main area of research for dealing with the complexity of construction management. This paper develops a multistage fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model with systematic and synergy-focused appraisal system from a value chain analysis perspective by using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), to help the industrial practitioners conduct the performance evaluation in a fuzzy environment by handling the vagueness and subjectivity with parameterized linguistic values. The work presented in this paper may help managers and business professionals not only to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the management but also to distinguish the important criteria for creation in value chain, to remain competitive in the market.
The Rules in Reconnecting the City Fabrics: A Morphological Study of the Regeneration Case
Authors: Zhai Y.
Published: December 2019

In the recent 30 years, Shanghai experienced fast urbanization which landscape shows various types of conflicts among the modern forms and the traditional forms. The insertion of new typologies in the traditional district introduces new urban characteristics and dynamics, which are not typically associated with the traditionally framed cities. The constructions of substantial industrial and commercial projects have caused the demolition of traditional urban forms. Urban designers aspire to revitalize the traditional neighborhood by combining urban fabrics without destroying the structure of the historic neighborhood. This paper attempts to exam the effectiveness of the urban network, the continuity of public structures and operational interactions between new projects and the local context through the study of a “failed” regeneration project in Shanghai, China. Consequently, this paper raised rules in reconnecting the city fabrics towards differential urbanism.
Gap Acceptance for Yangon Urban and Suburban Intersections
Authors: Nyein Nyein San Kyaw , Siridhara Siradol
Published: December 2019

Gap acceptance plays an important role in intersection design and signal warrant. This study investigates gap acceptance of drivers in Yangon, Myanmar. Three T-intersections were selected for study sites; two intersections in the urban area and the other one in Yangon suburb. As Yangon drivers drove on the right-hand side, the key movements that defined the intersection capacity would include left-turn from the major stream (LT-major), right-turn from the minor stream (RT-minor), and left-turn from the minor stream (LT-minor). Raff’s method was applied to determine the gap acceptance for these three conflicting movements. The result showed that the gap acceptance for LT-minor was the longest ranging between 7 to 15 seconds. The shortest gap acceptance belonged to the RT-minor for 4 to 8 seconds. The gap acceptance at urban sites was also shorter than that of suburban in all three movements. The drivers tended to decrease their gap acceptance when the traffic volume increased. However, the relationship between the gap acceptance and traffic flow was not significant.
A predictive model for tuning additives for the fabrication of porous polymeric membranes
Authors: Tavakolmoghadam Maryam , Mokhtare Amir , Rekabdar Fatemeh , Esmaeili Majid , hossein khanli khaneghah Abolfazl
Published: December 2019

In order to study the influence of the preparation conditions on the performance of the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) flat membranes, which were prepared via phase inversion method, a set of experiments based on response surface methodology (RSM) of central composite design (CCD) for three variables with five levels was performed. N,N-dimethyleacetamide (DMAc) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were employed as solvent and pore former additive, respectively. PVDF and PVP conditions in the casting solution as well as the ethanol content in the coagulation bath were set as main manufacturing variables. Interactions of the preparation variables besides their quadratic main effects and on the desired responses namely; pure water flux, mean pore size, tensile strength, morphology and the porosity of the prepared membranes were investigated. The predicted and experimental results were found to be in good agreement (R2 values of 0.97, 0.95, 0.91 and 0.81 for pure water flux, mean pore size, tensile strength and porosity respectively, were obtained). The applicability of the CCD based RSM for the performance modeling of PVDF flat sheet membranes has been successfully evaluated.
Tribological properties of swollen nitrile rubber under dry and wet sliding conditions
Authors: Song Shuyuan , Nie Rui , Wang Shijie , Li Yunlong
Published: December 2019

When nitrile rubber contacting with water under the external force during the service life, swelling and sliding wear occur. Since nitrile has similar polarity to water, the interaction between water and nitrile rubber and its influence on mechanical and tribological behaviors of the nitrile rubber play an important role in rubber performance, which is extremely necessary to be studied systematically. In this study, immersion experiments were conducted on three nitrile rubber samples which contained different acrylonitrile weight percentages of 18%, 26% and 41% (i.e. N18, N26, and N41) respectively. The hardness, tensile, dry and wet unidirectional sliding wear tests were further conducted. To reveal the mechanisms, the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were performed and interpreted accordingly. The results showed that cross-linking break based structural damage, substance dissolution and surface layer defects occurred after swelling, resulting in decreases in hardness and tensile strength and increases in permanent deformation fracture rates of the nitrile rubbers. The friction coefficient value of the un-swollen NBRs was positively related to the wear loss and decreased with the increase of the acrylonitrile content. During the wear process under dry conditions, the un-swollen rubbers presented hardening in aging while the swollen samples softened along with the deterioration of adhesive wear with higher steady-state friction coefficient value and wear loss. Under wet friction conditions, the susceptible wear behavior of the swollen rubbers induced reductions in friction coefficient and increases in wear loss. The swelling degree and its effects on mechanical and tribological behavior decreased with the increase of the acrylonitrile content. The swelling influences on the tribological behavior of nitrile rubber affected and acted on the entire wear process.
Impact of a Comprehensive Antimicrobial Stewardship Program on Institutional Burden of Antimicrobial Resistance: A 14-Year Controlled Interrupted Time-series Study
Authors: Peragine Christine , Walker Sandra A N , Simor Andrew , Walker Scott E , Kiss Alexander , Leis Jerome A
Published: December 2019

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) constitutes an international public health threat widely believed to result from excessive antimicrobial use (AMU). Numerous authorities have recommended antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) to curb the selection of AMR, but there is a lack of data confirming this benefit.

Methods

A controlled interrupted time-series study spanning 14 years was performed to assess impact of a comprehensive hospital-based ASP that included pharmacist-led audit and feedback on institutional AMR. Patient-level microbiologic and AMU data were obtained from October 2002 to September 2016. Poisson regression models were used to identify changes in the incidence and trend of hospital-acquired (HA) antibiotic-resistant organisms (AROs) and multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). Changes in community-acquired (CA)–ARO, CA-MDRO, and inpatient AMU were assessed as controls and process outcomes.

Results

Statistically significant shifts in AMU, HA-ARO, and HA-MDRO trends coinciding with ASP implementation were observed, corresponding with a 9% reduction in HA-ARO burden (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 0.91 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .83–.99]; P = .03) and a 13% reduction in HA-MDRO burden (IRR, 0.87 [95% CI, .73–1.04]; P = .13) in the intervention period. In contrast, CA-ARO and CA-MDRO incidence continued to rise, with 40% (IRR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.28–1.54]; P < .0001) and 68% (IRR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.57–1.82]; P < .0001) increases in burden found, respectively.

Conclusions

Implementation of a comprehensive ASP resulting in reduced AMU was associated with a significant reduction in institutional AMR, even though community AMR increased during the same period. These results confirm that ASPs play an important role in the fight against AMR.
Effects of Random Forest Parameters in the Selection of Biomarkers
Authors: Khaire Utkarsh Mahadeo , Dhanalakshmi R
Published: December 2019

A microarray dataset contains thousands of DNA spots covering almost every gene in the genome. Microarray-based gene expression helps with the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of cancer. The nature of diseases frequently changes, which in turn generates a considerable volume of data. The main drawback of microarray data is the curse of dimensionality. It hinders useful information and leads to computational instability. The main objective of feature selection is to extract and remove insignificant and irrelevant features to determine the informative genes that cause cancer. Random forest is a well-suited classification algorithm for microarray data. To enhance the importance of the variables, we proposed out-of-bag (OOB) cases in every tree of the forest to count the number of votes for the exact class. The incorporation of random permutation in the variables of these OOB cases enables us to select the crucial features from high-dimensional microarray data. In this study, we analyze the effects of various random forest parameters on the selection procedure. ‘Variable drop fraction’ regulates the forest construction. The higher variable drop fraction value efficiently decreases the dimensionality of the microarray data. Forest built with 800 trees chooses fewer important features under any variable drop fraction value that reduces microarray data dimensionality.
Accelerated failure time models with log-concave errors
Authors: Liu Ruixuan , Yu Zhengfei
Published: December 2019

We study accelerated failure time models in which the survivor function of the additive error term is log-concave. The log-concavity assumption covers large families of commonly used distributions and also represents the aging or wear-out phenomenon of the baseline duration. For right-censored failure time data, we construct semiparametric maximum likelihood estimates of the finite-dimensional parameter and establish the large sample properties. The shape restriction is incorporated via a nonparametric maximum likelihood estimator of the hazard function. Our approach guarantees the uniqueness of a global solution for the estimating equations and delivers semiparametric efficient estimates. Simulation studies and empirical applications demonstrate the usefulness of our method.
Unraveling the Association Between Gait and Mortality—One Step at a Time
Authors: Dommershuijsen Lisanne J , Isik Berna M , Darweesh Sirwan K L , van der Geest Jos N , Ikram M Kamran , Ikram M Arfan
Published: December 2019

Background

Slowness of walking is one of the very first signs of aging and is considered a marker for overall health that is strongly associated with mortality risk. In this study, we sought to disentangle the clinical drivers of the association between gait and mortality.

Methods

We included 4,490 participants of the Rotterdam Study who underwent a gait assessment between 2009 and 2015 and were followed-up for mortality until 2018. Gait was assessed with an electronic walkway and summarized into the domains Rhythm, Phases, Variability, Pace, Tandem, Turning, and Base of Support. Cox models adjusted for age, sex, and height were built and consecutively adjusted for six categories of health indicators (lifestyle, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and neurological). Analyses were repeated in comorbidity-free individuals.

Results

Multiple gait domains were associated with an increased risk of mortality, including Pace (hazard ratio (HR) per SD worse gait, adjusted for other domains: 1.34 [1.19–1.50]), Rhythm (HR: 1.12 [1.02–1.23]) and Phases (HR: 1.12 [1.03–1.21]). Similarly, a 0.1 m/s decrease in gait speed was associated with a 1.21 (1.15–1.27) times higher hazard of mortality (HR fully adjusted: 1.14 [1.08–1.20]). In a comorbidity-free subsample, the HR per 0.1 m/s decrease in gait speed was 1.25 (1.09–1.44). Cause-specific mortality analyses revealed an association between gait speed and multiple causes of death.

Conclusions

Several gait domains were associated with mortality risk, including Pace which primarily represents gait speed. The association between gait speed and mortality persisted after an extensive adjustment for covariates, suggesting that gait is a marker for overall health.
Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Lyase Inhibition Alters the S1P Gradient and Ameliorates Crohn’s-Like Ileitis by Suppressing Thymocyte Maturation
Authors: Karuppuchamy Thangaraj , Tyler Christopher J , Lundborg Luke R , Pérez-Jeldres Tamara , Kimball Abigail K , Clambey Eric T , Jedlicka Paul , Rivera-Nieves Jesús
Published: December 2019

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor agonists are a promising therapeutic alternative to anti-integrin antibodies in inflammatory bowel disease. Here, we report that modulation of tissue S1P levels via inhibition of the S1P lyase might be an effective alternative, acting by interference with thymocyte maturation.
Decreased biventricular function following thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: Kreibich Maximilian , Morlock Julia , Beyersdorf Friedhelm , Berger Tim , Allweier Stephan , Kondov Stoyan , Pingpoh Clarence , Czerny Martin , Siepe Matthias , Rylski Bartosz
Published: December 2019

OBJECTIVES

Preclinical studies have suggested acute stiffening of the aorta following experimental thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), resulting in acute elevated pulse pressure, hypertension and possibly heart failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate cardiac remodelling following TEVAR.

METHODS

From 2005 to 2018, 519 TEVAR procedures were performed at a single centre. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed pre- and post-TEVAR in 31 patients without previous replacement of the thoracic aorta. Patient characteristics, drug information, radiographic and follow-up data were evaluated. Aortic details were measured in multiplanar reconstruction.

RESULTS

Transthoracic echocardiography was performed 2 ± 2 years after TEVAR. At this time, patients received significantly more antihypertensive drugs compared to the pre-TEVAR intake (beta-blocker therapy: P = 0.037; calcium channel blocker: P = 0.022). Compared to pre-TEVAR, there was a significant reduction in the left ventricular ejection fraction (P = 0.008) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P = 0.013) post-TEVAR. A significant increase in the left ventricular mass was not detected in this study (P = 0.95). The mean distance of 163 ± 66 mm of the descending aorta was covered.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests negative cardiac remodelling with a decrease in the left and right ventricular function following TEVAR despite an increase in oral antihypertensive medication. The impact of stiffer endovascular grafts compared with the native aortic wall should be considered by endovascular specialists and manufacturers.
Association Between Pathophysiology and Volume of Distribution Among Patients With Sepsis or Septic Shock Treated With Imipenem: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Yingzi , Yang Jie , Xie Jianfeng , Liu Ling , Liu Songqiao , Guo Fengmei , Qiu Haibo , Yang Yi
Published: December 2019

Background

This study was performed to explore the apparent volume of distribution (Vd) of imipenem in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Methods

A prospective, observational, single-center study was conducted in patients with sepsis or septic shock. The patients were treated with 1 g of imipenem mixed with 200 mL of normal saline infused intravenously over a 3-hour period at 8-hour intervals. The concentration of imipenem was 5 mg/mL, and the rate of infusion was 5.5 mg/min. Blood samples for measuring imipenem serum concentrations with high-performance liquid chromatography were obtained before and at 0, 1, 2, 3, and 5 hours after drug infusion on study days 1 and 3. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated according to a noncompartment model.

Results

A total of 25 adult patients were enrolled in this study, of whom 15 were diagnosed with sepsis and 10 with septic shock. The initial Vd (Vc) of imipenem was significantly lower in the sepsis than that in the septic shock group (mean [standard deviation], 26.5 [7.1] vs 40.7 [11.0] L; P = .001). The Vc of imipenem was significantly related to serum albumin levels (r = −0.517; P = .008) as well as Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores (r = 0.606; P = .001). Multivariate linear regression identified serum albumin levels and APACHE II scores on day 1 as independent factors influencing the Vc of imipenem (P < .05). The difference in Vd between the imipenem steady state and the initial state was significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (mean [standard deviation], 1.7 [21.5] vs −13.1 [11.4] L; P = .046).

Conclusions

APACHE II scores and serum albumin levels were found in this study to be independent factors that may affect the Vc of imipenem in patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Clinical Trials Registration

clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03308214.
302 Current pain mitigation practices in beef and dairy cattle in the United States
Authors: Johnstone Elizabeth C , Coetzee Johann , Edwards-Callaway Lily , Pinedo Pablo
Published: December 2019

The lack of FDA-approved analgesic drugs for use in cattle in the United States offers limited pain management options to cattle veterinarians and producers. An on-line survey was developed to investigate current use of pain mitigation by cattle veterinarians and producers. The survey was distributed electronically to multiple listservs in Summer 2018 (BEEF Magazine, American Association of Bovine Practitioners, National Milk Producers Federation Farmers Assuring Responsible Management evaluators, Dairy Moms and Dairy Girls Facebook groups; n = 46,577). A total of 1,187 (2.5%) surveys were received; 41.9% of respondents identified as producers, 47.9% as veterinarians, and 10.2% as both. Multivariate logistic regression was used for analysis. Veterinarians [OR (95% CI) = 10.2 (7.21–14.4)] and both veterinarians and producers [OR (95% CI) = 3.30 (2.02–5.39)] had significantly greater odds of using analgesia than producers in all cattle ages. Summary statistics indicate that analgesic use increased with cattle age; 57.6% of respondents used pain management in calves < 2 months of age, while 71.6% of respondents used pain management in adult cattle (>12 months of age). Respondents agreed that “cattle benefit from receiving analgesic drugs” (76.6%) and that “US/USDA/FDA regulations limit my ability to use analgesic drugs in cattle” (64.01%). Fifty-eight percent of respondents indicated their use of pain management had increased in the last 10 years. Data identify impediments to improving pain management practices in cattle. Results indicate the need for education and communication between veterinarians and producers on the necessity of pain management.
198 Sale price of Holstein feeder steer lots relative to other breed descriptions sold through Superior Livestock video sales from 2010 through 2018
Authors: McCabe Esther D , Smith Maggie J , King Micheal E , Fike Karol E , Rogers Glenn M , Odde Kenneth G
Published: December 2019

The objective was to determine relative value of Holstein feeder steer lots compared to steer lots of other breed descriptions sold through video auctions while adjusting for all other factors that significantly influenced sale price. Data were analyzed from 14,075 lots of feeder steers sold through 211 livestock video auctions from 2010 through 2018. All lot characteristics that could be accurately quantified or categorized were used to develop a multiple regression model that evaluated effects of independent factors on sale price using a backwards selection procedure. A value of P < 0.05 was used to maintain a factor in the final model. A lot was categorized into one of four breed descriptions: 1) English, English crossed, 2) English-Continental crossed, 3) Brahman influenced, 4) Holstein. Average weight and number of steers in lots analyzed was 363.2 ± 50.6 kg BW and 121.1 ± 110.3 head, respectively. English, English crossed lots sold for the greatest (P < 0.05) sale price ($152.39/45.36 kg). English-Continental crossed lots sold for the second greatest (P < 0.05) sale price ($150.61/45.36 kg). Brahman influenced sold for the third greatest (P < 0.05) sale price ($148.75/45.36 kg). Holstein lots sold for the lowest (P < 0.05) sale price ($110.56/45.36 kg). To determine potential change in relative value of Holstein feeder steers from 2010 to 2018, data were analyzed in three-year increments. In all three-year increments, Holstein feeder lots sold for the lowest (P < 0.05) sale price compared to the other breed descriptions of beef steer lots. The average discount of Holstein feeder lots relative to other breed descriptions was $33.19/45.36 kg BW in 2010–2012, $42.96/45.36 kg BW in 2013–2015, and was the greatest in 2016–2018 at an average discount of $46.24/45.36 kg BW, likely indicating lessening interest in the feedlot sector to feed Holstein steers to harvest.
203 Development and evaluation of a dynamic simulation model of farm management strategies affecting the reproductive performance of a suckled beef cow herd
Authors: Lynch Richard , Crosson Paul , Kelly Alan , Kenny David
Published: December 2019

Reproductive output in suckled beef cow systems is underpinned by a combination of genetics and the impact of efficient animal management strategies which given their cumulative nature, are difficult to evaluate. A dynamic simulation model (Grange Reproductive Management Model; GReMM) was developed replicating the reproductive performance of a suckled beef cow herd over multiple production cycles using the Stella Architect dynamic modelling platform (isee systems, Ventana, Lebanon, USA). Model inputs for farm parameters include dates and duration of breeding seasons in addition to nutrition and management of the periparturient beef cow. Specific management parameters pertaining to the duration of the postpartum anoestrus interval (PPAI), such as the body condition score of the cow at calving (BCSc), level of postpartum nutrition (PPN), management of the suckling calf and bio-stimulation of the dam pre-breeding are modelled. Outputs are displayed in the form of shifts in calving distribution, calving rates and calves per cow per year. Scenario analysis consisted of the implementation of a BASE scenario representative of current industry best practice (Normal reproductive management; NRM: BCSc, 2.75; PPN, 100 MJ ME/d; ad libitum suckling). Two further scenarios were developed representing a more intensively managed herd, with high levels of nutrition pre and post calving in addition to alternative reproductive management strategies (Intensive reproductive management; IRM), and a herd with a low level of nutritional management pre and postpartum (Poor reproductive management; PRM). Outputs generated in terms of calving distribution over six production cycles, indicated that a shift in the calving spread towards later in the calving season occurred in the PRM scenario, and a small improvement in reproductive efficiency evident in the IRM scenario over NRM. The model developed offers a decision support tool with the capability of evaluating practical on-farm management decisions on herd reproductive performance.
46 The impact of heat stress on feedlot operations; nutritional and breeding options to reduce its impact
Authors: Jennings Jenny
Published: December 2019

Heat stress can and always will be an issue in the feedlot industry. Heat stress can decrease performance in feedlot animals leading to substantial economic losses. High environmental temperatures, relative humidity, solar radiation, and low wind speeds can be life-threatening to beef cattle when these conditions occur simultaneously. Management strategies to decrease or alleviate heat stress-related production losses have been a focus of research for a long period of time. There is a plethora of research completed on the additions of shades, sprinklers, air circulation of covered pens, as well as the physiological changes cattle experience. The physiological discoveries have revealed a lot about how the animal copes with certain stressors and has aided in potential mitigation strategies. The use of sprinklers and shades are the most popular additions to feedlots; however, certain nutritional management strategies and breed selection can be viable options as well. My objectives to address those management strategies were to compile and review past research that specifically addresses bunk management, diet formulation, feeding strategies, and breed characteristics as well as incorporate current information available on the cattle we feed today.
208 Crossbred evaluations using single-step genomic BLUP and algorithm for proven and young with different sources of data
Authors: Pocrnic Ivan , Lourenco Daniela , Chen Ching-Yi , Herring William O , Misztal Ignacy
Published: December 2019

Genomic selection is routinely applied to many purebred farm species but can be extended to predictions across purebreds as well as for crossbreds. This is useful for swine and poultry, for which selection in nucleus herds is typically performed on purebreds, whereas the commercial products are crossbreds. Single-step genomic BLUP (ssGBLUP) is a widely applied method that can use algorithm for proven and young (APY), that allows for greater computing efficiency by exploiting the theory of limited dimensionality of genomic information and chromosome segments (Me). This study investigates the predictivity as a proxy for accuracy across and within two purebred pig lines and their crosses, under the application of APY in ssGBLUP setup, and different levels of Me overlapping across populations. The data consisted of approximately 210k phenotypic records for two traits and more than 720k animals in pedigree. Genotypes for 43k SNP were available for 46k animals, from which 26k and 16k belong to purebreds, and 4k to crossbreds. The models included bivariate animal model with three lines evaluated as one joint line, and for each trait individually a three-trait animal model with each line treated as a separate trait. Both models provided the same predictivity across and within the lines. Using either of the pure lines data as a training set resulted in a similar predictivity for the crossbreeds. Across-line predictive ability was limited to less than half of the maximum predictivity for each line. For crossbreds, APY performed equivalently to direct inverse when the number of core animals was equal to the number of eigenvalues explaining 98–99% of the variance of G including all lines. Predictivity across the lines is achievable because of the shared Me between them. The number of those shared segments can be obtained via eigenvalue decomposition of genomic information available for each line.
66 Current trends in protein sourcing for aquaculture diets
Authors: Villalon Jose
Published: December 2019

This presentation will cover novel ingredients being currently used and analyzed for commercial incorporation into marine and freshwater fish/shrimp aquaculture feed by Skretting, the world’s number one salmon feed manufacturer. Villalón will close with a proposal for the need of encouraging a paradigm shift in how conventional seafood sales should change to facilitate mainstreaming the introduction of expensive innovative ingredients into the value chain by sharing the incremental cost across the entire value chain.
73 Within and between animal variation in supplement intake with the use of a novel precision feeding system for beef cattle
Authors: Hanson Brandon , Morrison Jason , McGeough Emma , Wittenberg Karin , Ominski Kim
Published: December 2019

Survey data suggests that in Western Canada, approximately 62% of forage samples may not meet energy requirements for gestating beef cows in 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Individual supplementation via a precision feeder would improve animal productivity and welfare. A CV of 30% was selected as a threshold for acceptable variation based on previous studies, which reported a CV of 41% for supplements hand-fed to grazing animals. Over three, 14-d experimental periods, precision feeders were used to deliver and monitor consumption of the following supplements to 24 steers (375 kg; n = 8 per pen): 1) supplementation of low protein forage (5.5% CP) with commercial pellets (1 kg hd-1d-1 with and without flavoring); 2) supplementation of low protein forage (5.5% CP) with processed pea screening powder (PPSP), sunflower screenings, and flax screenings provided at 0.57, 1.04, and 1.34 kg hd-1d-1, respectively; and 3) supplementation of low energy forage (41.4% TDN) with wheat screenings, wheat bran, and quinoa dockage all provided at 2.61 kg hd-1d-1. Feeding commercial pellets without flavoring resulted in within animal CVs (15.12% and 13.15%) and between animal CVs (14.78% and 12.68%) similar to pellets with flavoring (13.98% within and 12.85% between animal CV). Steers offered PPSP had significantly higher within and between animal CV (31.05% and 31.41%, respectively) than was observed for animals offered sunflower screenings (14.98% within and 18.30% between animal) and flax screenings (11.19% within and 16.03% between animal). Within and between animal CV was 6.99% and 7.14% for wheat screenings, 10.47% and 11.77% for wheat bran, and 10.07% and 10.42% for quinoa dockage. Intake CV for all supplements was below 30% except for PPSP which may have resulted from the powdery texture or low amount offered relative to other feedstuffs, indicating that the precision feeders are an effective system to deliver supplements on an individual animal basis.
84 Effect of incorporating forage pea (c.v. Pisium sativum L.) into cereal hay on ruminal fermentation and apparent digestibility when fed to beef heifers
Authors: Pursley Alex , Biligetu Bill , Warkentin Tom , Lardner Bart , Penner Greg B
Published: December 2019

The objective was to evaluate the effect of inclusion rate of pea hay in barley and oat hay when fed to beef cattle. Six ruminally-cannulated heifers (407 ± 38 kg) were used in a 6 × 6 Latin square with a 2 × 3 factorial design and 25-d periods. Treatments included barley or oat hay blended with pea hay to achieve inclusion rates of 0, 15, or 30% (DM basis). Pea inclusion increased DMI (P = 0.03) by 0.75 kg/d, and generally reduced sorting (P ≤ 0.006) against NDF and ADF compared to the cereal-only treatments. Pea inclusion decreased CP digestibility by 2.87% relative to cereal-only treatments, but did not affect the predicted microbial protein supply or nitrogen retention (P ≥ 0.77). Pea inclusion did not affect total ruminal SCFA concentration, but increased the molar proportions of acetate and butyrate and decreased the molar proportion of propionate (P ≤ 0.01). While cereal type did not affect DMI (P = 0.36) or total SCFA concentration (P = 0.61), use of oat hay improved DM digestibility (67.73 vs. 63.22% for oat and barley, respectively; P < 0.001) and increased nitrogen retention (P = 0.03) when compared to barley. Overall, incorporating pea into cereal hay increased DMI, reduced CP digestibility, and altered ruminal fermentation.
87 Xylanase effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, organ weight, and short chain fatty acid concentration in colon digesta of weaned pigs fed wheat and canola meal-based diets
Authors: Mejicanos Gustavo A , Nyachoti Charles M
Published: December 2019

This study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of xylanase on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, organ weight, digesta pH and concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) of weaned pigs fed wheat-canola meal-based diets over a 35-d period. A total of 144 piglets (6.2 ± 0.7 kg) received one of 8 diets based on a randomized complete block design. Body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly to calculate average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed efficiency(G:F). Treatments consisted of a control wheat-SBM-based diet and wheat-regular (RCM), dehulled (DCM) or coarse (CCM) canola meal. All diets contained 500 phytase units (FTUs/kg; Quantum Blue-5G), and titanium-dioxide (0.3%), and were fed without and with 16,000 Birch-Xylan Units of xylanase (BXU/kg; Econase-XT). Apparent total tract digestibilities (ATTD) of NDF, CP, P, Ca, DM, and diet were determined. On d 35, one pig per pen was euthanized to evaluate the effect of treatment on organ weight, digesta pH, and digesta concentration of SCFA. Treatment did not affect growth performance. Xylanase supplementation improved nutrient digestibilities, without affecting growth performance. The ATTD of NDF was greater (P < 0.05; 48%) in the wheat-SBM+xylanase, wheat-SBM without xylanase (46%), and DCM+xylanase (45%) diets. The ATTD of CP was greater (P < 0.05; 78%) in wheat-SBM+xylanase, and wheat-DCM+xylanase (75%), diets. Xylanase supplementation increased ATTD of P and Ca by 9 and 19%; whereas ileum and colon digesta pH increased by 6 and 3%. Supplementing xylanase to DCM increased butyric acid by 10%, whereas the concentration of acetic acid increased by 24% in colon-digesta of pigs fed CCM+xylanase. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of xylanase increased nutrient digestibilities, digesta pH without affecting growth performance of weaned pigs fed wheat and canola meal-based diets. Additionally, supplemental xylanase increased butyric acid concentration in colon digesta of pigs fed wheat-DCM diets.
99 Temporal and spatial characterization of interleukin-6 protein in the caprine testis
Authors: Fadlalla Khalda
Published: December 2019

The demand for goat products is one of fastest growing segments of livestock production in the United States. Nonetheless, the development of efficient goat breeding stock remains in its infancy. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have the potential to enhance reproductive efficiency in goats to rapidly propagate superior genetics. In order to improve success with ART, it is pertinent to understand the factors that contribute to reproductive processes, such as spermatogenesis, as well as the factors that affect the production of viable sperm. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine produced mainly by macrophages in response to foreign antigens, pathogens. In recent years, studies showed that mammalian testes produce IL-6. Under in vitro conditions, Sertoli cells secrete IL-6 following stimulation with low levels of testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone in mice. The binding of IL-6 promotes the transcription of genes important to cellular processes, such as cell growth and differentiation, which are critical to testicular function. The overall objective of this study was to characterize IL-6 protein in goat testes during three life stages: neonate (n = 3; 13- 21days), pre-pubertal (n = 3; 110–121 days) and adult (n = 3; 11–12 month) goats. Preliminary data from western blotting revealed that testicular goat tissues express IL-6. Immunohistochemical staining of IL-6 in the peritubular myoid cells and interstitial cells of neonate, pre-pubertal and adult goats; further Sertoli cells express IL-6 in adult goats. Our findings suggest that IL-6 may play a key role in testicular development and function; however, further research is needed.
101 National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) evaluates accuracy of genomic prediction in commercial Angus cattle
Authors: Decker Jared E , Patterson David J , Arisman Brian , Rowan Troy N , Thomas Jordan M , Brown Scott , Lamberson William R , Poock Scott E , Smith Michael F , Spencer Thomas E , Taylor Jeremy
Published: December 2019

One of the goals of the National Center of Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) is to demonstrate in real-world settings the potential of new technologies. To this end, we evaluated the predictive ability of the Zoetis GeneMax Advantage genomic prediction. The GeneMax Advantage test analyzes tens of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) to predict the genetic potential of a commercial Angus female. Genetic predictions are provided for Calving Ease Maternal, Weaning Weight, Heifer Pregnancy, Milk, Mature Weight, Dry Matter Intake, Carcass Weight, Marbling, and Yield. Indices of economically important traits are estimated on an index score (1–100 scale) and are reported in three indices; Cow Advantage Index, Feeder Advantage Index, and Total Advantage Index. Producers can use the scores and indices to make selection, culling, and mating decisions. To measure the accuracy of the trait predictions, data from commercial Angus females and their progeny at the University of Missouri Thompson Research Center was utilized to analyze Weaning Weight, Milk, Marbling, Fat Thickness, Ribeye Area and Carcass Weight. Progeny phenotypic data was matched to the respective dam, and the genomic predictions were then compared to the phenotypic data using correlation and linear models in R software. Linear models accounted for differences in sex, birth year, and the random effect of sire. Interestingly, all genomic predictions had correlations with progeny phenotypes that were significantly different from zero (P-value < 0.05). Likewise in the linear models, genomic predictions for all analyzed traits were significantly associated with calf performance (Table 1). Academics, farmers and ranchers, and extension professionals can trust the effectiveness of GeneMax Advantage genomic predictions in commercial Angus cattle.
110 The National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) in Beef Cattle
Authors: Patterson David J , Brown Douglas S , Smith Michael F , Lamberson William R , Taylor Jeremy , Spencer Thomas E , Poock Scott E , Thomas Jordan M , Decker Jared E
Published: December 2019

Continued research of new and emerging technologies in reproduction and genomics and transfer of these technologies to our nation’s beef cattle industry is currently challenged. Funding for research to support advances in these disciplines, the linkages between them, and their collective economic impact will be essential to improve efficiencies of production, given the anticipated growth in global population and the declining availability of earth’s resources. As budgets to support research and transfer of technology via Extension have dwindled, many states lack the necessary critical mass to support research of new technologies, and as importantly, effective transfer of these technologies to industry stakeholders. Simply put, land grant universities in states across the United States are now categorized as “have and have-nots” when it comes to research infrastructure and qualified extension personnel. Further, there is concern regarding the limited number of veterinarians that specialize in animal reproduction and genomics across the United States and implications for veterinary student training and continuing education offerings for veterinary practitioners in the field. Veterinarians serve as a key information source for US livestock producers and are essential in facilitating the adoption of various reproductive and genomic technologies. Collectively, these considerations form the rationale for a USDA-NIFA funded project with matching support from the University of Missouri to create a National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) in Beef Cattle. NCARG will serve as a new model for research and technology transfer wherein industry participants at all levels and from across the US are afforded the opportunity to access information and acquire new skills that will improve reproductive management and genetic makeup of our nation’s livestock enterprise.
344 Protein supplementation during gestation enhances offspring growth performance of Wagyu sired but not Angus sired cattle
Authors: Moffitt-Hemmer Natasha , Liu Xiangdong , Deavilla Jeanene , Neibergs Shannon , Busboom Jan , Nelson Mark , Du Min
Published: December 2019

Wheat straw based diets are commonly fed to pregnant cows in Pacific Northwest, which may not meet protein requirements, but its impact on growth performance of offspring is unclear. Angus is the most common breed in this region while Wagyu is gaining popularity due to enhanced meat quality. The interaction between maternal nutrition and breed on growth performance of calves was examined. Angus cross cows (621 ± 73kg) were selected and randomly allotted to two groups and inseminated with either Angus or Wagyu semen. At 185 days of pregnancy, cows in each group were further separated into two-subgroups: control diet (CON, n = 21) received 85 % of the NRC metabolizable protein requirement, and protein supplemented group (SUPP, n = 21) received 108 % of requirement until calving. Then, cows and calves were moved to pastures and the cow calf pairs grazed rangeland. After weaning, calves were backgrounded, finished, and harvested at a body weight of 576.5 ± 16.6 kg. There were no differences between CON and SUPP in birth weight. However, SUPP increased 205 days adjusted weaning weight of Wagyu progeny (P < 0.01) and average daily gain (ADG) during the period of birth to weaning (P < 0.05) compared to calves from cows fed the CON diet. Moreover, Angus progeny had higher 205 days adjusted weaning weight (P < 0.01) and ADG during birth to weaning than Wagyu fed SUPP diet (P = 0.056). In both treatments, Angus gained weight faster and showed higher weight before finishing than Wagyu (P < 0.05). Angus had higher harvest weight (P < 0.01) and maternal protein supplementation tended to increase the dressing percent (P = 0.06). In conclusion, maternal protein supplementation enhanced growth performance of Wagyu but not Angus cattle, and Angus grew faster than Wagyu sired cattle. (Supported by USDA-NIFA grants 2015-67015-23219/2016-68006-24634 to MD)