bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marked variation in atherosclerotic plaque progression between the major epicardial coronary arteries
Authors: Bax A Maxim , Lin Fay Y , van Rosendael Alexander R , Ma Xiaoyue , Lu Yao , van den Hoogen Inge J , Gianni Umberto , Tantawy Sara W , Andreini Daniele , Budoff Matthew J , Cademartiri Filippo , Chinnaiyan Kavitha , Choi Jung Hyun , Conte Edoardo , de Araújo Gonçalves Pedro , Gottlieb Ilan , Hadamitzky Martin , Leipsic Jonathon A , Maffei Erica , Pontone Gianluca , Stone Gregg , Shin Sanghoon , Kim Yong-Jin , Lee Byoung Kwon , Chun Eun Ju , Sung Ji Min , Lee Sang-Eun , Berman Daniel S , Narula Jagat , Chang Hyuk-Jae , Shaw Leslee J
Published: March 2022

Aims

Atherosclerosis develops progressively and worsens over time, yet event risk patterns vary in the left circumflex (LCx), right coronary artery (RCA) and left anterior descending (LAD). The aim of this analysis was to examine varying progressive disease alterations between the three major coronary arteries.

Methods and results

Patients were included from a prospective, international registry of consecutive patients who underwent serial CCTA at a median interval of 3.3 years. Annual progression of quantitative total and compositional plaque volume were compared between the three coronary arteries (LCx, LAD, and RCA). Other analyses compared stenosis ≥50% and new high-risk plaque (HRP; ≥2 of the following: spotty calcification, positive remodelling, napkin-ring sign, and low-attenuation plaque) on follow-up. Generalized estimating equations and marginal Cox regression models were used to compare progression, with covariate adjustment by the baseline atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk score, statin use, and plaque burden. Quantitative plaque measurements were calculated in 1344 patients (age 60 ± 9 years, 57% men). Plaque progression occurred less often in the LCx (41.0%) as compared to the RCA (52.7%) and LAD (77.4%, P < 0.001). Odds for annual plaque burden increase ≥population mean were 1.98- and 1.43-fold as high in the LAD (P < 0.001) and RCA (P < 0.001) as compared to the LCx. Similarly, the LAD was associated with a 2.45 higher risk of progression to obstructive CAD (P < 0.001), as compared to the LCx; with no differences between the RCA and LCx (P = 0.13). New HRP lesions formed least often in the LCx (3.4%), followed by the RCA (8.1%) and most often in the LAD (10.1%; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings reveal novel insights into varied patterns of atherosclerotic plaque progression within the LCx as compared to the other epicardial coronary arteries. These varied patterns reflect differing stages in the disease process or differing pathogenic milieu across the coronary arteries.
HrgS (Avin_34990), a novel histidine-kinase related to GacS, regulates alginate synthesis in Azotobacter vinelandii
Authors: López-Pliego Liliana , González-Acocal Verónica , García-González Diana Laura , Reyes-Nicolau Jimena Itzel , Sánchez-Cuapio Zaira , Meneses-Carbajal Alan Shared , Fuentes-Ramírez Luis Ernesto , Castañeda Miguel
Published: March 2022

Azotobacter vinelandii is a soil bacterium that produces alginates, a family of polymers of biotechnological interest. In A. vinelandii, alginate production is controlled by the two-component system GacS/GacA. GacS/GacA, in turn, regulates the Rsm post-transcriptional regulatory system establishing a cascade that regulates alginate biosynthesis by controlling the expression of the algD biosynthetic gene. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, GacS/GacA is influenced by other histidine-kinases constituting a multicomponent signal transduction system. In this study, we explore the presence of GacS-related histidine-kinases in A. vinelandii and discover a novel histidine-kinase (Avin_34990, renamed HrgS). This histidin-kinase acts as a negative regulator of alginate synthesis by controlling the transcription of the sRNAs belonging to the Rsm post-transcriptional regulatory system, for which a functional GacS is required.
Two alpha isopropylmalate synthase isozymes with similar kinetic properties are extant in the yeast Lachancea kluyveri
Authors: Vigueras-Meneses Liliana Guadalupe , Escalera-Fanjul Ximena , El-Hafidi Mohammed , Montalvo-Arredondo Javier , Gómez-Hernández Nicolás , Colón Maritrini , Granados Estefany , Campero-Basaldua Carlos , Riego-Ruiz Lina , Scazzocchio Claudio , González Alicia , Quezada Héctor
Published: March 2022

The first committed step in the leucine biosynthetic pathway is catalyzed by α-isopropylmalate synthase (α-IPMS, EC 2.3.3.13), which in the Saccaromycotina subphylum of Ascomycete yeasts is frequently encoded by duplicated genes. Following a gene duplication event, the two copies may be preserved presumably because the encoded proteins diverge in either functional properties and/or cellular localization. The genome of the petite-negative budding yeast Lachancea kluyveri includes two SAKL0E10472 (LkLEU4) and SAKL0F05170 g (LkLEU4BIS) paralogous genes, which are homologous to other yeast α-IPMS sequences. Here, we investigate whether these paralogous genes encode functional α-IPMS isozymes and whether their functions have diverged. Molecular phylogeny suggested that the LkLeu4 isozyme is located in the mitochondria and LkLeu4BIS in the cytosol. Comparison of growth rates, leucine intracellular pools and mRNA levels, indicate that the LkLeu4 isozyme is the predominant α-IPMS enzyme during growth on glucose as carbon source. Determination of the kinetic parameters indicates that the isozymes have similar affinities for the substrates and for the feedback inhibitor leucine. Thus, the diversification of the physiological roles of the genes LkLEU4 and LkLEU4BIS involves preferential transcription of the LkLEU4 gene during growth on glucose and different subcellular localization, although ligand interactions have not diverged.
COVID-19 in Central Asia: exploring the relationship between governance and non-pharmaceutical intervention
Authors: Alfano Vincenzo
Published: March 2022

To fight coronavirus disease 2019, non-pharmaceutical interventions were adopted all over the world. Non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI) effectiveness also depends on governments’ capacity to implement sound policies. Stay-at-home orders are binding measures that can raise serious concerns among the population. The perceived quality and effective need for these measures are therefore crucial for the willingness of the citizens to accept NPIs. This study investigates the relationship between the efficacy of NPIs and governance quality in Central Asia. Results suggest that overall governance quality matters and that in this relationship regulatory quality is more important than rule of law, which matters more than government effectiveness.
Predicting the likelihood of successful medical treatment of early pregnancy loss: development and internal validation of a clinical prediction model
Authors: Hamel C C , Vart P , Vandenbussche F P H A , Braat D D M , Snijders M P L M , Coppus S F P J
Published: March 2022

STUDY QUESTION

What are clinical predictors for successful medical treatment in case of early pregnancy loss (EPL)?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Use of mifepristone, BMI, number of previous uterine aspirations and the presence of minor clinical symptoms (slight vaginal bleeding or some abdominal cramps) at treatment start are predictors for successful medical treatment in case of EPL.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Success rates of medical treatment for EPL vary strongly, between but also within different treatment regimens. Up until now, although some predictors have been identified, no clinical prediction model has been developed yet.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Secondary analysis of a multicentre randomized controlled trial in 17 Dutch hospitals, executed between 28 June 2018 and 8 January 2020.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Women with a non-viable pregnancy between 6 and 14 weeks of gestational age, who opted for medical treatment after a minimum of 1 week of unsuccessful expectant management. Potential predictors for successful medical treatment of EPL were chosen based on literature and expert opinions. We internally validated the prediction model using bootstrapping techniques.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

237 out of 344 women had a successful medical EPL treatment (68.9%). The model includes the following variables: use of mifepristone, BMI, number of previous uterine aspirations and the presence of minor clinical symptoms (slight vaginal bleeding or some abdominal cramps) at treatment start. The model shows a moderate capacity to discriminate between success and failure of treatment, with an AUC of 67.6% (95% CI = 64.9–70.3%). The model had a good fit comparing predicted to observed probabilities of success but might underestimate treatment success in women with a predicted probability of success of ∼70%.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

The vast majority (90.4%) of women were Caucasian, potentially leading to less optimal model performance in a non-Caucasian population. Limitations of our model are that we have not yet been able to externally validate its performance and clinical impact, and the moderate accuracy of the prediction model of 0.67.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

We developed a prediction model, aimed to improve and personalize counselling for medical treatment of EPL by providing a woman with her individual chance of complete evacuation.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

The Triple M Trial, upon which this secondary analysis was performed, was funded by the Healthcare Insurers Innovation Foundation (project number 3080 B15-191).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03212352.
A Practical Index to Distinguish Backwash Ileitis From Crohn’s Terminal Ileitis in MR Enterography
Authors: Khosravi Bardia , Salehnia Aneseh , Pak Neda , Montazeri S Ali , Sima Ali Reza , Vahedi Homayoun , Malekzadeh Reza , Radmard Amir Reza
Published: March 2022

Background

Differentiating ulcerative colitis-associated “backwash” ileitis (BWI) from Crohn’s terminal ileitis (CTI) is a diagnostic challenge and highly affects patient’s management. This study aimed to investigate magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) features including ileocecal valve patency index (ICPI) in patients with BWI and CTI and distinguish these entities based on MRE findings.

Methods

After obtaining institutional review board approval, we reviewed 1654 MREs; 60 patients with pathologically proven BWI (n = 30) and CTI (n = 30) were enrolled. Two radiologists who were blinded to the clinical diagnosis analyzed MREs. We evaluated bowel wall thickness and enhancement pattern, ileocecal valve (ICV) diameter, and lip thickness. Ileocecal valve patency index-T and ICPI-C were calculated to normalize the ICV diameter with respect to terminal ileum (TI) and cecum, respectively. An additional group of non-BWI-UC patients (n = 30) was also included to validate indices.

Results

Circumferential mural thickening (90% vs 1%, P < .001) and inner-wall enhancement (P < .001) of TI were more frequent in BWI patients than CTI. Serosal irregularity (53% vs 13%, P = .002), higher mural thickness (5mm vs 3mm, P < .001), and asymmetric hyperenhancement (P < .001) of TI were more prevalent in CTI than BWI. Ileocecal valve patency and lip atrophy were significantly higher in BWI than CTI and non-BWI-UC groups (both P < .001). Ileocecal valve patency indices-C and ICPI-T indices were able to accurately distinguish BWI from CTI (area under the ROC curve [AUC], 0.864 and 0.847 for ICPI-T and ICPI-C, respectively) and non-BWI-UC (AUC, 0.777 and 0.791 for ICPI-T and ICPI-C, respectively). Ileocecal valve patency indices-T  ≥31.5% were 100% specific to distinguish BWI from CTI, but sensitivity was 63%.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance enterography features of ICV and TI can accurately differentiate BWI from CTI. Two practical indices introduced in this study showed high specificity to distinguish BWI from CTI.
Digital constitutionalism in the new era of Internet governance
Authors: De Gregorio Giovanni , Radu Roxana
Published: March 2022

Digital technologies are profoundly intertwined with constitutionalism. They are not only a sum of material and immaterial architecture, but also provide infrastructures to exercise freedoms and powers. Even if digital technologies are likely to remain the key driver of global transformations in the next decades, the current evolution of Internet governance promises to affect this relationship. This article argues that Internet governance is evolving towards fragmentation, polarization and hybridization. These trends do not only concern the governance of the technical infrastructure. They also contribute to reshaping the architecture of freedom and power in the digital environment, giving impetus to a new role for constitutionalism in the digital age. Therefore, the primary question is how far does the evolution of Internet governance leads towards a new constitutional paradigm in the digital age? As digital spaces are governed at the crossroads of a new phase, these trends question the global paradigm at the basis of the Internet, thus opening a new research agenda. By examining the challenges raised by fragmentation, polarization and hybridization in the governance of digital technologies, this work examines emerging challenges to constitutional models protecting rights and limiting powers on a global scale.
Flipped Inflammatory Time and the Role of Antibodies Against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2: Optimizing Tocilizumab Against Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Guisado-Vasco Pablo , Aguareles Gorines José , Carralón González María M , Sotres Fernández Gabriel , Carnevali Ruiz Daniel
Published: March 2022

Use of interleukin (IL-6) inhibitors has become one of the most complicated clinical issues in treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Recently, randomized open-label platform trials have found that IL-6 inhibitors have a beneficial effect on mortality in severe COVID-19. However, several questions arise around their mechanism of action in this disease, as well as how, when, and at which dose they should be used. IL-6 has both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which may modulate the course of COVID-19, whose immunopathogenesis is driven by the innate immune system, autoantibodies, and interferon. Given that patients with delayed seroconversion against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein would be at the highest risk of complications beyond the second week of disease, we propose that considering patient serostatus at admission could optimize the use of IL-6 inhibitors in COVID-19. We predict that the net treatment benefits could be higher in the subgroup of patients with delayed seroconversion as compared to those who seroconvert more rapidly after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Hyperinflammatory Syndrome, Natural Killer Cell Function, and Genetic Polymorphisms in the Pathogenesis of Severe Dengue
Authors: Vuong Nguyen Lam , Cheung Ka Wai , Periaswamy Balamurugan , Vi Tran Thuy , Duyen Huynh Thi Le , Leong Yan Shan , Binte Hamis Zayanah Noor , Gregorova Michaela , Ooi Eng Eong , Sessions October , Rivino Laura , Yacoub Sophie
Published: March 2022

Background

Severe dengue, characterized by shock and organ dysfunction, is driven by an excessive host immune response. We investigated the role of hyperinflammation in dengue pathogenesis.

Methods

Patients recruited into an observational study were divided into 3 plasma leak severity grades. Hyperinflammatory biomarkers were measured at 4 time points. Frequencies, activation, and cytotoxic potential of natural killer (NK) cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. RNA was extracted from sorted CD56+ NK cells and libraries were prepared using SMART-Seq and sequenced using HiSeq3000 (Illumina).

Results

Sixty-nine patients were included (grade 0, 42 patients; grade 1, 19 patients; grade 2, 8 patients). Patients with grade 2 leakage had higher biomarkers than grade 0, including higher peak ferritin levels (83.3% vs 45.2%) and H-scores (median, 148.5 vs 105.5). NK cells from grade 2 patients exhibited decreased expression of perforin and granzyme B and activation markers. RNA sequencing revealed 3 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in NK cell functional genes associated with more severe leakage—NK cell lectin-like receptor K1 gene (KLRK1) and perforin 1 (PRF1).

Conclusions

Features of hyperinflammation are associated with dengue severity, including higher biomarkers, impaired NK cell function, and polymorphisms in NK cell cytolytic function genes (KLRK1 and PRF1). Trials of immunomodulatory therapy in these patients is now warranted.
Ex Vivo Human and Porcine Skin Effectively ModelCandida aurisColonization, Differentiating Robust and Poor Fungal Colonizers
Authors: Eix Emily F , Johnson Chad J , Wartman Kayla M , Kernien John F , Meudt Jennifer J , Shanmuganayagam Dhanansayan , Gibson Angela L F , Nett Jeniel E
Published: March 2022

Candida auris proliferates and persists on the skin of patients, often leading to health care-associated infections with high mortality. Here, we describe 2 clinically relevant skin models and show that C. auris grows similarly on human and porcine skin. Additionally, we demonstrate that other Candida spp., including those with phylogenetic similarity to C. auris, do not display high growth in the skin microenvironment. These studies highlight the utility of 2 ex vivo models of C. auris colonization that allow reproducible differentiation among Candida spp., which should be a useful tool for comparison of C. auris clinical isolates and genetically mutated strains.
62 Transitioning the Alabama Bermudagrass Hay Summit to a Virtual Workshop
Authors: Dillard Leanne L , Thompson Gerry , Stanford Kent , Marks Landon , Justice Maggie M , Mullenix Kim
Published: March 2022

The Bermudagrass Hay Summit is an in-state Extension workshop that began in 2017. The objective of this workshop has been to provide recent updates and advanced information to bermudagrass hay producers in Northern Alabama. Topics have included insect pests, weed control, soil nutrients, and hay storage techniques. In 2021, organizers of the meeting were left with the conundrum of canceling the event or converting the event into a virtual-only platform as current Alabama Cooperative Extension guidelines would not allow an in-person meeting. As a result of deciding to convert the meeting to a virtual format, the organizers broaden the promotion of the event. The meeting was a 6-hour workshop with multiple speakers. The videoconferencing software Zoom (Zoom Video Communications, Inc., San Jose, CA) was used to register and deliver the workshop. The workshop was advertised on social media, through an Extension communications press release, email blasts, and word of mouth. All presentations were delivered remotely from different locations across Alabama. To ensure technology problems could be resolved quickly, an Extension information technology specialist participated in the videoconference, as well as a graduate student to communicate any chat questions/discussions from participants and assist individual participants as necessary. There were 129 people registered for the meeting, a 1,075% increase over the average from the four previous years (12 participants). Of those registered, 26% were out of state and 1 participant was out of the US. Even though the platform was virtual, the overall satisfaction of the meeting did not change in 2021 (4.7 on a 5-point scale) compared with 2020 (4.8 on a 5-point scale). While it is important to continue in-person and one-on-one interactions in Extension, the ability to provide virtual or hybrid events will allow Extension agents to be relevant to a broader audience, as well as inform potential clients of Extension’s mission.
60 Repairing Hay Feeding Areas with Crabgrass: A Master Beef Producer Demonstration
Authors: Webb Matt , Mason Katie , Rhinehart Justin D
Published: March 2022

The Master Beef Producer Program in Tennessee is a fee-based educational program for producers. In Marshall County, Master Beef Producer funds were used to purchase crabgrass seed for a demonstration which aimed to help producers decide if crabgrass is a viable option for repairing hay feeding areas. Producers were asked to fill out a survey to receive a small bag of crabgrass. Producers were given a factsheet with directions for planting, managing, and controlling weeds in crabgrass stands. In a pre-survey, producers were asked about previous use and opinion of crabgrass, and location of hay feeding areas. Sixty producers had not planted crabgrass before. When asked their opinion of using crabgrass, 53% liked crabgrass, 41% were indifferent and 6% did not like crabgrass. For hay feeding areas, 51% use the same hay feeding areas every year, whereas 45% switch their hay feeding areas. Post-survey results showed that when ranked (1=very low; 10=very high) how well producers liked using crabgrass, the average was 8.1. When asked to rank how well the crabgrass established, the average was 7.3. All producers used broadcasting and some included disking as their establishment method. Crabgrass was used for grazing only by 92% of producers, and for both grazing and hay by 8%. Pest issues including pigweed, iron weed, and mint, as well as armyworms, were observed in some stands. When asked if they would consider using crabgrass in the future, 67% of producers said yes, 25% said maybe, and 8% responded no. It is difficult to quantify the value of repairing hay feeding areas with crabgrass when considering erosion control, water quality, reduced weeds, and providing additional grazing for livestock. However, with a conservative yield of 2 tons/acre and forage value at $80/ton, the potential benefit of repairing these hay feeding areas is a gross of $160/acre. This demonstration is just one example of how fee-based programming and Extension demonstrations support informed decision-making and positive impacts for producers.
25 Temperament and Age Impact Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Capacities in Angus Steers
Authors: Simons Jessica L , Wesolowski Lauren T , Semanchik Pier L , Guy Chloey P , Earnhardt Audrey , Long Charles L , Perry George A , Randel Ron D , Welsh Thomas H , White-Springer Sarah H
Published: March 2022

Temperament impacts skeletal muscle mitochondria in Brahman heifers, but this relationship has not been investigated in Angus steers. We hypothesized mitochondrial measures would be greater in temperamental than calm steers, in the trapezius (TRAP) than the longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle, and would increase from 13 to 18 mo of age. Samples from calm (n = 13), intermediate (n = 12), and temperamental (n = 13) Angus steers were evaluated for integrative (per mg tissue) mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (P) and electron transfer (E) capacities by high-resolution respirometry. Data were analyzed using linear models with repeated measures (time) and fixed effects of time, muscle, temperament, and all interactions. Leak, P with complex I (PCI), maximal coupled P (PCI+II), maximal noncoupled E (ECI+II), and E with complex II (ECII) decreased from 13- to 18-mo-old (P < 0.0001). Integrative PCI+II, ECI+II, and ECII were greater in the TRAP than LT (P0.005). Leak respiration was greatest in intermediate steers at 13 mo of age (P< 0.0001) but was unaffected by temperament at 18-mo-old. Additionally, ECI+II was greatest in temperamental steers (P0.05) and tended to be greater in intermediate than calm steers (P = 0.1) at 13-mo-old. Overall, PCI, PCI+II, and ECII were greater in temperamental than calm steers (P0.05). ECII was also greater (P = 0.03) and PCI and PCI+II tended to be greater (P0.08) in intermediate than calm steers. The contribution of leak (FCRLeak) and PCI (FCRPCI) to total ECI+II decreased (P < 0.0001) while the contribution of PCI+II (FCRPCI+II) and ECII (FCRECII) to E increased (P0.006) from 13- to 18-mo-old. FCRLeak and FCRPCI were greater (P0.01) and FCRPCI+II tended to be greater (P = 0.08) in the LT than the TRAP. FCRLeak was lowest in temperamental (P0.03) while FCRPCI+II was lowest in calm steers (P0.05). Temperament clearly impacts skeletal muscle mitochondrial capacities and efficiency of energy production in Angus steers, which may be related to product quality at harvest.
19 Evaluation of Fixed-time Artificial Insemination and Estrus Expression in Angus-cross Heifers with Female Sex-sorted Semen Using 6-day and 7-day CIDR Protocols at Multiple Time Intervals
Authors: Weber W E , Powell J G , Littlejohn B P , Kegley E B , Noga N N , Looney C R
Published: March 2022

The objective was to investigate the influence of progesterone exposure time and breeding time on fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols using sex-sorted semen in Angus-cross heifers (n = 85; mean BW = 324 kg.). Heifers were assigned randomly into four treatment groups. Treatments 1 and 2 used a 6-day CO-synch + controlled internal drug release (CIDR) protocol with gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) administration and CIDR insertion on day 0 and prostaglandin F2α (PGF) administration on day 6, upon simultaneous CIDR removal. Treatment 1 heifers underwent FTAI 72 h post CIDR removal, and Treatment 2 heifers underwent FTAI 80 h post CIDR removal. Treatments 3 and 4 used a 7-d CO-synch + CIDR protocol with GnRH administration and CIDR insertion on d 0 and PGF administration on d 7, upon simultaneous CIDR removal. Treatment 3 heifers underwent FTAI 54 h post CIDR removal, and Treatment 4 heifers underwent FTAI 62 h post CIDR removal. Estrus expression was determined using an estrus detection patch (Estrotect™, Rockway Inc., Spring Valley, WI). Estrus expression was classified as a patch with 50% or more of the color rubbed off and the absence of estrus expression as a patch with less than 50% of the color rubbed off. All heifers were inseminated using female sex-sorted semen from a single Angus sire (SexedULTRA 4M™, STgenetics, Navasota, TX). Pregnancy was determined by ultrasound 57 d following FTAI. Pregnancy rates and patch scores were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 with treatment as a fixed effect. There was no effect of treatment on the first service AI rates (P = 0.91) or on estrus expression (P = 0.17) in heifers. In conclusion, the combinations of progesterone and breeding time in this study did not affect first service AI conception rates or estrus expression in beef cattle heifers.
11 Inclusion of Quebracho Tannin as a Silage Additive in Tall Fescue Silage: Effects on Fermentation
Authors: Grote Ally J , Nieman Christine , Coffey Ken , Thomas Ivan
Published: March 2022

Tall fescue (Schedonurus arundinaceus) is commonly grazed in the mid-south, but also has potential use for spring silage. During ensiling, protein can be converted to ammonia, but condensed tannins such as those in Quebracho (Schinopsis quebracho-colorado) can reduce this conversion. However, acid production may also be reduced. Quebracho tannin was added to chopped tall fescue and ensiled at different moisture concentrations to determine those effects on ammonia and silage fermentation products. Tall fescue was harvested with a Carter harvester at 1000 h, spread on concrete, mixed thoroughly, and dried for 1 and 2 h to achieve 67 and 44% moisture (high moisture (HM) and low moisture (LM), respectively). Quebracho tannin was either not applied, or was mixed with distilled water 48 h prior to packaging and applied at 1 and 2% of the total silage dry matter (DM) to both moisture treatments. Laboratory silos were pressed to achieve a packing density of 192 kg/m3 and stored at room temperature (23.7 ℃) for 60 d, after which sub-samples were removed and analyzed for fermentation parameters. Post-ensiling crude protein (CP) was greater (P < 0.05) from LM vs. HM, but did not differ among tannin treatments (P = 0.11). Ammonia concentrations (%CP equivalent) were greatest in 0% tannin (P < 0.05). A moisture by tannin interaction affected acetic acid, with greater concentrations in HM silages with 0 and 2% tannin compared to LM with 2% tannin. Lactic acid (%) was greater (P < 0.05) in 0 compared to 2% tannin, but 1% did not differ from either 0 or 2% tannin. Butyrate was greater (P < 0.05) in HM, and in silos with 2% tannin, but not 1% tannin. Overall, total acids (%) were greatest (P < 0.05) in HM but did not differ (P = 0.54) among tannin treatments. Therefore, ensiling tall fescue with tannins reduced proteolysis regardless of moisture concentration, and did not reduce fermentation up to 2% tannin inclusion.
26 The Effect of Cannabidiol on Follicular Growth and Ovulation in Cattle
Authors: Purnell Emily , Runyan Cheyenne L , Roper David , Guay Kim A
Published: March 2022

The role of the endocannabinoids in regulating female reproductive processes such as follicular development has become an area of heightened interest with the prevalence of Cannabidiol (CBD) increasing as a natural mediator to physiological issues as well as the addition of hemp meal as a feedstuff for livestock. Initial studies indicate that cannabis use including Δ 9- tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has negative implications on folliculogenesis and multiple aspects of pregnancy. However, there is limited knowledge on the effect of CBD on follicular growth and ovulation. The objective of this study was to identify the presence of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in bovine ovarian theca and granulosa cells and its effect on follicular dynamics leading to ovulation. Theca and granulosa cells from medium (< 4 mm) and large ( >4 mm) follicles from abattoir bovine ovaries (n=61) were collected. Upon completion of pooling theca and granulosa cells, protein was isolated for detection of cannabinoid receptors, type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2) through western blot. Receptors CB1 and CB2 are G- protein coupled receptors with an effect on the adenylyl cyclase pathway, which is key to many reproductive functions in the ovary. A strong visual representation of CB1 receptor detection was found in large granulosa cells and theca cells. Using Stain-Free total protein measurement as the loading control, the densitometric ratio in medium granulosa cells and large granulosa cells had a greater abundance of CB2 (P < 0.05) compared to theca cells. This data suggests a detectable effect by cannabinoids on granulosa and theca cells. Future studies are needed to investigate the role the ECS has in folliculogenesis and key steroidal production for successful ovulation. The subsequent knowledge is a key first step in understanding the effect CBD has on fertility and pregnancy in livestock.
8 Efficacy of Sequential Estrus Synchronization and Timed Artificial Insemination Protocols in Beef Cattle
Authors: Carter Courtnie L , Rhinehart Justin D , Fontes Pedro , Crites Ben , Anderson Les , Schneider Liesel G , Mercadante Vitor R G
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of sequential estrous synchronization and timed artificial insemination (TAI) in beef cattle using transrectal ultrasonography (US) for pregnancy diagnosis 26d after the initial TAI (TAI-1;d0) to determine pregnancy status and eligibility for the second TAI (TAI-2) on d 29. Angus and angus cross primiparous and multiparous cows were randomly assigned to one of two treatment regimens; either single TAI (CON; n = 468) or two sequential TAI (RS; n = 473). Estrus was synchronized for both treatment groups using the 7-day CO-synch + CIDR protocol forTAI-1 at 60h - 66h post- Prostaglandin injection (PGf2α). A second 7-day CO-synch + CIDR protocol was initiated for RS groups on d 19 and pregnancy status determined by US coincident with CIDR removal on d 26 post TAI-1. Non-pregnant RS cows received an injection of PGf2α and Estrotect® estrous detection aid was applied. All non-pregnant cows received a second TAI (TAI-2) and GnRH injection 60-66h after PGf2α (day 29). The probability of pregnancy at 30d post TAI-2 was higher (P < 0.01) for RS (82%) than CON cows (56%). Overall pregnancy rate on d 120 post TAI-1 did not differ between treatments (92%; P < 0.823). The probability of pregnancy to AI on d 120 was higher (P < 0.0001) for RS (78%) than CON cows (50%). Conversely, the probability of pregnancy sired by natural service was higher (P < 0.03) for CON (41%) than RS (15%) by design. Mean fetal age at 120d pregnancy diagnosis did not differ (P < 0.5547) between treatments (RS, 94 days; CON ,96 days). In conclusion, re-synchronization for a second TAI beginning 19 d after the initial TAI increased total AI-sired pregnancies and has the potential to reduce the required number of natural service sires without negatively influencing calving distribution.
22 Incorporating Crabgrass in Southern Pasture Systems to Improve Animal Performance
Authors: Whatley Kendall S , Burt Justin C , Baxter Lisa , Stewart Lawton , Tucker Jennifer J
Published: March 2022

Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum L.) is a perennial warm-season forage commonly grown in the Coastal Plains of the Southeastern US, but the nutritive value may not be sufficient for a cow-calf pair. The inclusion of a warm-season annual, such as crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) may improve the forage base when interseeded into bahiagrass monocultures. A three-year summer grazing evaluation was conducted at the University of Georgia Range Cattle Research Station in Alapaha, GA from 2019-2021 to compare concurring production of bahiagrass interseeded with an improved crabgrass (BCG) with bahiagrass monoculture (BG) pastures and animal performance. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replications. All paddocks were evaluated on a biweekly basis for herbage availability, botanical composition, and nutritive value. Paddocks (2.6 ha) were continuously grazed using the put-and-take method of stocking with cow-calf pairs, 4 tester pairs per treatment. Pairs were weighed at initiation and on a 28d interval for calculation of calf ADG, cow BCS, and gain/ha. Statistical analyses were conducted using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS. Average daily gains were analyzed within year and treatment differences were only significant in Y1 (P = 0.05). Forage yield was never limiting in this experiment but CP and TDN were greater (P < 0.001) for BCG when compared to BG for Y1 and Y2. Rainfall was 27cm below average in Y1, therefore these data suggest that during a drought, crabgrass interseeded into bahiagrass can improve the forage nutritive value, and subsequent calf gain, as compared to bahiagrass alone.
32 Bacterial Communities in the Uterus and Rumen of Beef Heifers Throughout Development with Protein Supplementation
Authors: Ault-Seay Taylor B , Brandt Kiernan , Henniger Madison T , Mathew Daniel , Moorey Sarah , Schrick F Neal , Pohler Ky G , Rhinehart Justin D , Schneider Liesel G , McLean Kyle J , Myer Phillip R
Published: March 2022

Protein supplementation to replacement heifers is utilized to reach targeted body weights, which may affect the animal’s gut and reproductive microbiomes and potentially impact breeding outcomes. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of protein supplementation on the ruminal and uterine bacterial communities of developing heifers. Thirty-nine pre-pubertal commercial Angus heifers were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to one of three supplementation groups: 10% crude protein (CP), 20% CP, or 40% CP. Supplements were provided four times weekly for 140d. Blood and BW were taken every 14d to monitor development. Every 56d, uterine flushes and rumen content were collected for bacterial identification. Uterine flushes were collected via 20 mL sterile saline flushed through a Foley catheter, and rumen content by esophageal tubing. Bacterial DNA was extracted and amplified targeting the V1-V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Microbiome analyses were performed in R 4.1 with dada2 and phyloseq packages. Statistical analyses were performed in R and SAS 9.4. The GLIMMIX procedure was used including fixed effects of protein, month, and pubertal status. Random effects included BW, interaction of BW and protein, and heifer within the interaction, with repeated measures of month. Alpha diversity differed by month in the rumen, and by month and pubertal status in the uterus (P < 0.05). Bray Curtis analyses indicated clustering by month and pubertal status (P < 0.001) in the uterus, and by month in the rumen (P < 0.001). Multiple uterine and ruminal bacteria abundances differed over time and by protein supplementation and pubertal status (P < 0.05). The impact of pubertal status and month of development may indicate maturation of the uterine bacterial communities through development. Protein supplementation affecting the uterine bacterial communities may provide opportunity to manipulate the uterine microbiome, potentially affecting future reproductive success.
38 Using Canine Olfaction to Detect Bovine Respiratory Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Juge Aiden E , Hall Nathan , Richeson John , Daigle Courtney L
Published: March 2022

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in feedlot cattle and is therefore a major welfare and economic concern. Identification of BRD-affected cattle using clinical illness score is problematic, and speed and cost constraints limit the feasibility of many diagnostic approaches. Dogs can rapidly identify humans and animals affected by a variety of diseases based on scent. Canines’ olfactory systems can distinguish between patterns of volatile organic compounds produced by diseased and healthy tissue. In this pilot study, two dogs were trained for seven months to discriminate between nasal swabs from cattle that developed signs of BRD within twenty days of feedlot arrival and swabs from cattle that did not develop BRD signs within three months at the feedlot. Nasal swabs were collected during cattle processing upon arrival to the feedlot and were stored at -80°C. Dogs were presented with sets of one positive and two negative samples and were trained using positive reinforcement to hold their noses on the positive sample. The dogs performed moderately well in the final stage of training, with accuracy for Dog A of 0.817 and Dog B of 0.647. During a double-blind detection test, dogs evaluated 123 unique and unfamiliar samples that were presented as 41 sets (3 samples per set), with both the dog handler and data recorder blinded to the positive sample location. Each dog was tested twice on each set of samples. Detection test accuracy was slightly better than the 0.333 expected by chance for Dog B at 0.451 (95% CI: 0.341-0.565) and was no better than chance for Dog A at 0.390 (95% CI: 0.284-0.504. Overall accuracy was 0.421 (95% CI: 0.344-0.500). While dogs showed some ability to discriminate between BRD-affected and healthy cattle using nasal swabs, the complexity of this task suggests that more testing is needed before identifying whether dogs could be effective as a screening method for BRD.
37 Performance, Health, and Physiological Responses of Feedlot Cattle Supplemented with Pre- and Probiotic Ingredients
Authors: Mackey Shea , Cooke Reinaldo F , Colombo Eduardo , Pickett Autumn , Batista Luis Fernando , Block Elliot , Brandão Alice
Published: March 2022

This experiment compared performance and health responses of feedlot cattle receiving a ymbiotic supplement, which replaced or was fed in conjunction with feed-grade antimicrobials. Angus-influenced steers (n = 192) from 4 different sources were weaned and immediately transported for 800 km. Steers arrived at the experimental feedlot on d 0, and a shrunk body weight (BW) was immediately recorded. Steers were ranked by source and shrunk BW, and allocated to 1 of 24 drylot pens (8 steers/pen). Pens received a free-choice diet containing: 1) monensin and tylosin (RT; 360 mg/steer daily from Rumensin and 90 mg/steer daily from Tylan; Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN), 2) yeast-derived ingredient and B. subtilis probiotic (CC; 18 g/steer daily of Celmanax and 28 g/steer daily of Certillus; Church and Dwight Co., Inc., Princeton, NJ), or 3) combination of RT and CC (RTCC). Cattle were slaughtered according to BW, and slaughter groups were balanced by treatments (33 steers on d 200, 33 steers on d 230, 63 steers on d 257, and 63 head on d 285). Feed intake during the experimental period (d 0 to slaughter) was greater (P < 0.01) in CC compared to RT and RTCC, although feed efficiency was lower in CC (P = 0.02). No treatment effects were observed for BW gain (P = 0.61), final BW (P = 0.67), or morbidity (P = 0.15). Upon slaughter, CC had higher marbling scores compared to RT (P = 0.04). Both CC and RTCC had larger Longissimus muscle area (P = 0.07) and more carcasses grading choice or better (P < 0.01) than RT. Liver abscesses tended (P ≤ 0.09) to be greater in CC compared to RTCC and RT. Hot carcass weight, dressing percentage, backfat thickness, and yield grade did not differ among treatments (P ≥ 0.20). Collectively, replacing RT with CC improved feed intake and certain carcass measures despite decreased feed efficiency, whereas combining CC with RT did not yield additional performance and health benefits.
54 Physical Effects of Carrot Fiber as a Binder in Cooked Chicken Sausage
Authors: Johnson Jessica A , Heller Jacob , Owsley Frank F , Cassens Andrew M , Kinman Lea Ann A
Published: March 2022

Binders are commonly used in sausage formulations to increase cook yield and improve texture. Soy protein (SP) and Non-Fat Dry Milk (NFDM) are common binders used in sausage, but an increase in allergen mislabeling incidents drives the need for allergen free alternatives. This study sought to test the effectiveness of carrot fiber (CF) in cooked chicken sausage. Chicken breast and thighs (90:10) were coarse ground (12.5 mm), mixed with 1.5 L of water and seasonings consisting of curing salts, sodium erythorbate and salt, then fine ground (9.5 mm). The blend was divided into 4.5 kg batches and randomly assigned a treatment: no-binder (control), CF 2% or 3.5%, NFDM 2% or 3.5%, SP 2% or 3.5%. Formulations were stuffed into cellulose casings, cooked to an internal temperature of 71°C, cold showered, and stored in a cooler (4°C). Texture profile analysis (TPA) was executed in triplicate. Sausages were reheated in an aluminum-lined baking pan covered in foil in an convection oven set at 121°C to an internal temperature of 71°C. TPA variables (hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience) were established using model TA.XTPlus. Statistical analysis was conducted using Statistix (Ver. 10.0 USA), as a completely randomized design. Least square means were separated for significant main effects, at α = 0.05 level. Hardness values for sausages made with CF 2% and 3.5% were higher and less resilient (P < 0.05). Sausages made with CF 3.5% were less cohesive (P < 0.05) than NFDM 2% and 3.5%, SP 3.5%, and control. CF 3.5% was chewier (P < 0.05), however, CF 2% was similar (P > 0.05) to NFDM 3.5% and SP 3.5%. Therefore, the use of CF 2% in cooked chicken sausage created a similar texture profile as NFDM and SP, which may make this inclusion rate a more practical replacement.
47 Effects of Sous Vide Cooking on the Tenderness of Beef Loins from Different USDA Quality Grades
Authors: Franke Grace , Dias Jennifer , Kinman Lea Ann A , Cassens Andrew M
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of sous vide cooking on the tenderness of beef loins from different USDA quality grades. Certified Angus Beef (CAB, n = 6), consisting of Motest0-Moderate100 marbling scores, USDA Low Choice (CH, n = 6), and USDA Select (SEL, n = 6) beef loins were purchased from a local meat purveyor and aged for 20 d with pack date set as d 0. Following aging, loins were cut into 2.54-cm-thick steaks, and every alternating steak was assigned to tenderness evaluation. Steaks were randomly assigned 1 of 3 treatments: sous vide 1 h (SV1), sous vide 2 h (SV2), and grilled (GR). Following sous vide cooking at 57°C, all treatments were grilled using the flat surface of a clamshell grill to an internal temperature of 71°C. Instrumental measurements for external cooked color (L*, a*, and b*) were recorded at 3 different locations on each steak following cooking using the HunterlLab Miniscan EX Plus spectrophotometer. Beef tenderness was evaluated using TA.XTPlus Warner-Bratzler shear (WBS) force machine after steaks chilled at 4°C for 12 – 18 h. There was no significant (P > 0.05) treatment by quality grade interactions for WBS force. GR steaks had a higher (P < 0.05) WBS force compared with SV1 and SV2 indicating a less tender product. SEL also had a higher WBS force value (P < 0.05) than CAB. Additionally, there was an increase (P < 0.05) in L* between GR, SV1, and SV2 indicating GR steaks were whiter, followed by SV1, then SV2 being the darkest. SV2 had a higher (P < 0.05) cook loss than SV1. In conclusion, there was no difference between the interactions of WBS force and treatments. Therefore, sous vide has an impact on tenderness that overpowers the quality grade differences, providing a more tender product compared to grilling.
51 Influence of Thermoforming Films on Surface Color in Vacuum Packaged Ground Beef
Authors: Reyes Tristan , Smith Hunter R , Wagoner Madison , Wilborn Barney , Bonner Tom , Sawyer Jason T
Published: March 2022

With meat industry efforts focused on improving environmental influencers, adopting alternative packaging films may allow the meat industry to address the sustainability demands of the consumer. The current study evaluated instrumental surface color changes on fresh ground beef using vacuum packaging films identified as recycle ready (RRF), standard barrier (STB) and enhanced barrier (ENB). Coarse ground beef (80:20) was purchased from a commercial processing facility, ground once through a 3.18 mm plate and portioned into 454 g bricks. Ground beef bricks were allocated randomly to one of three packaging treatments (n = 25 packages/treatment), placed into a form and fill pouch, vacuum sealed, and displayed in a three-tiered retail display cabinet (3 °C ± 1.5 °C) for a 21-day simulated retail display period. Ground beef packages were rotated daily for the duration of the 21-d study among all shelves of the display cabinet. On each day of the display period, packages were scanned three times with a hand-held colorimeter (HunterLab) to capture instrumental color readings for lightness (L*), redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Hue angle, Chroma, and spectral wavelength values (400 to 700nm) to calculate relative values of Red:Brown (630:580nm), deoxymyoglobin (DEO), oxymyoglobin (OXY), and metmyoglobin (MET). Calculations of relative myoglobin forms were completed using the log of the reflectance values at 473, 525, 572, and 700nm respectively. Ground beef packaged using ENB barrier film was lighter (L*), redder (a*) and more vivid (Chroma) than all other packaging treatments during the simulated display period (P < 0.05). By day 12 of the simulated retail display, ground beef surface color became lighter (L*), more yellow (b*), less red (a*), less vivid (chroma) and contained greater forms of calculated metmyoglobin, oxymyoglobin (P < 0.05). These results suggest that vacuum packaging of ground beef remains a plausible option for extending surface color during fresh shelf-life conditions.