bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSIV-A-9 Effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on growth performance and diarrhea of weaned pigs
Authors: Jansen Mariah , Polniak Veronica I , Luttman Andrea M , Barber Riley , Stull Delani , Rozeboom Dale W , Kim Kwangwook
Published: May 2024

The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of non-nutritive sweeteners on growth performance and severity of diarrhea in weaned pigs. Pigs [n = 168; 6.13 ± 0.41 kg body weight (BW)] were weaned at 21 ± 1 d and allotted to one of the 4 dietary treatments with 6 pigs/pen, using a randomized complete block design based on BW and sex as blocks. The 4 dietary treatments were: 1) Control (CON): Basal nursery diet; 2) Sucralose (SCL): CON supplemented with 150 mg/kg of sucralose; 3) Neotame (NEO): CON supplemented with 30 mg/kg of neotame; and 4) Antibiotic (ATB): CON supplemented with 50 mg/kg carbadox. Pigs were fed for 28 d, divided into 2 phases (Phase 1: d 0 to 14; phase 2: d 15 to 28), with the experimental diets formulated to meet or exceed nutrient requirements as suggested by NRC, 2012. The BW and feed disappearance were measured at the end of each interval (d 7, 14, 21, and 28) after weaning to calculate average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed efficiency [gain to feed ratio (G:F)]. Diarrhea scores were recorded twice daily throughout the experiment, with scores ranging from 1 to 5 (1 = normal to 5 = watery diarrhea). The frequency of diarrhea was calculated as the percentage of pen days with a diarrhea score of 4 or greater, indicating severe diarrhea. All data were analyzed using ANOVA with the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS, with a pen as the experimental unit. The frequency of diarrhea was analyzed using a Chi-square test. Supplementation of NEO resulted in greater (P < 0.05) BW on d 7 and improved (P < 0.05) ADG, ADFI, and G:F during d 0 to 7, compared with the CON group. Pigs supplemented with ATB had greater (P < 0.05) BW on d 7, enhanced (P < 0.05) ADG, and tended to increase ADFI (P = 0.062) and G:F (P = 0.068), compared with the CON group. In phase 2, NEO supplementation tended to increase ADFI (P = 0.070) compared with pigs in the ATB group. Pigs fed non-nutritive sweeteners or antibiotic diet had limited impacts on overall growth performance and daily diarrhea scores. However, supplementation of SCL significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the frequency of severe diarrhea during phase 1 (9.18% vs. 19.39%) and throughout the experiment (4.59% vs. 10.71%) compared with pigs fed the CON, respectively. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of non-nutritive sweetener neotame could improve growth performance during the first week after weaning, while sucralose could alleviate the severity of post-weaning diarrhea, respectively. Further studies are warranted to explore the effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on post-weaning responses and the mechanisms underlying these observed changes in pigs.
PSIV-A-5 Effect of roughage inclusion in limit-fed cow rations on behavior, cow hygiene, and manure scores
Authors: Fowler Meg , Freeman Brayden , Ewing Kylie P , Meteer W Travis T , Chapple Wesley P , McCann Joshua C , Shike Daniel W W
Published: May 2024

The objective was to determine the effects of roughage inclusion in isocaloric total mixed rations (TMR) fed to drylot housed cow-calf pairs on behavior, manure score, and hygiene score. Spring-born Simmental x Angus cows (n = 72) and their calves were stratified by calf age, sex, and body weight (BW) and assigned to 12 pens with 6 pairs to pen. Pens were randomly assigned to one of two treatments: moderate roughage inclusion (40%) TMR targeting DMI of 1.7% of BW (LimitTMR) or high roughage inclusion (60%) TMR targeting DMI of 2.1% of BW (BulkyTMR). Concrete bunks (4.7 m; 0.8 m/cow). Cow-calf pairs were housed in concrete dry lots with open-front buildings. Buildings were bedded with straw once a week. Cow and calf behavior (standing, lying, at bunk, and eating bedding) was observed hourly from 1 h before feeding until 6 h post-feeding. Behavior assessments were done on 2 consecutive days (before new bedding and after new bedding) each week for 5 wk. Hygiene and manure scoring was conducted on d 40 and 75 by 2 trained evaluators. Hygiene was scored on a 1-4 scale; 1 – no manure, 4 confluent plaque of manure. Cow hygiene was evaluated on the lower leg, udder, and upper leg and flank. Manure from each pen was scored on a 1-5 scale; 1 – very liquid consistency, 5 – firm fecal balls. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4. On day prior to new bedding, there was a treatment × time interaction (P < 0.01) for cows at bunk. More cows on BulkyTMR were at the bunk at h 2, 3, 4, and 5 post-feeding. On day after new bedding, there was also a treatment × time interaction (P < 0.01) for cows at bunk. More cows on LimitTMR were at the bunk before feeding; however, more cows on BulkyTMR were at bunk at h 2 and 3 post-feeding. On both evaluation days there was a treatment × time interaction (P ≤ 0.05) for calves at bunk. More calves on BulkyTMR were at the bunk at h 1 and 2 post-feeding. Cows fed the LimitTMR had dirtier (P ≤ 0.02) lower leg (1.5 vs 1.2) and upper leg/flank (1.4 vs 1.1) hygiene scores on d 40 than cows fed the BulkyTMR; however, there were no treatment differences (P ≥ 0.31) on d 75. There were no treatment differences (P ≥ 0.26) for manure scores on d 40 or d 75. In conclusion, a bulkier TMR with more roughage inclusion resulted in more time at the bunk for cows and calves and cleaner hygiene scores for cows, but roughage inclusion did not affect manure scores.
PSIV-A-2 Comparison of rising plate meter and total collection methods for forage mass determination of tall fescue
Authors: Delgado Fernando , Ewing Kylie P , McCann Joshua C , Shike Daniel W W
Published: May 2024

The objective was to compare estimates of forage mass (FM) determined with a rising plate meter (RPM) with forage mass determined by total collection method. Estimates of FM impact management decisions and give the producer a greater understanding of forage availability for their herd. Traditional methods of FM estimation using a forage ring or quadrat and total collection are labor intensive and time consuming. The RPM tool aims to provide a quicker method of FM estimation without sacrificing accuracy. The reliability of this tool can be impacted by season, species composition, plant growth state, and pasture management. Forage samples were collected from six random locations within both continuous and rotationally grazed systems. The predominant forage species was endophyte-infected tall fescue. A 0.25 m2 forage ring was randomly thrown, then two RPM (Jenquip Manual Platemeter) measurements were collected in the ring, followed by five measurements adjacent to the ring. The RPM determined the compressed sward height (CSH). Subsequently, forage within the ring was hand-clipped at ground level and collected. Samples were dried for 120 h at 55° C to determine forage availability (kg/ha). This process was repeated weekly for 6 wk. Rising plate meter FM was estimated using the equation: kg dry matter (DM)/ha = CSH × 158 + 200. Data were analyzed using the CORR procedure of SAS 9.4. Forage mass estimates from total ring collection method and RPM were weakly correlated in the rotational grazing system (r = 0.26; P = 0.13) and in the continuous grazing system (r = 0.20; P = 0.24). It is important to note that certain sample collection dates had stronger correlations than others. In the rotationally grazed paddocks, FM from RPM were strongly correlated (r ≥ 0.89, P ≤ 0.02) with FM from total ring collection on 6/23/23 and 7/26/23. In the continuously grazed paddocks, FM estimations from RPM were strongly correlated (r ≥ 0.73, P ≤ 0.10) with forage mass from total collection on 7/20/23 and 7/26/23. Variation among the seven RPM readings at each collection site could have contributed to variability. Coefficient of variation ranged from 9 to 48% and averaged 18% for all samples. The inconsistencies in relationship of forage mass determination methods suggests that more variables need to be considered when determining the accuracy of RPM-derived estimates of forage mass of tall fescue.
PSIV-A-10 Pilot study: Acute changes in mare milk composition in response to concentrate feeding
Authors: Oberlin Carlee , Zimmerman-Cameron Savea , Pyles Morgan , Gerbracht Izabell H
Published: May 2024

Evaluating dietary effects on mare milk composition is important for optimizing nutrition programs for broodmares. Additionally, accurately measuring milk composition is important for many research studies. Different techniques have been used to collect milk samples, however, the effect time of collection after feeding has not been investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the short-term changes in mare milk composition after a concentrate meal. We hypothesized that milk composition, specifically lactose, follows a similar pattern as blood glucose after a high starch meal. Milk samples were collected from four mares at 6 to 7 d postpartum. Baseline blood samples and milk samples were collected, then mares were fed a concentrate meal containing 0.697 g starch/kg body weight (BW). Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture at 60, 120, 240, 360, and 480 min postprandial. Blood glucose was measured using a glucometer (OneTouch Ultra 2, LifeScan, USA). Milk samples were collected every 60 min for 480 min postprandial. Foals were muzzled for 60 min intervals and allowed to nurse at each time point to induce milk ejection. Milk samples (> 50 mL) were collected by hand while foals nursed. Milk lactose was measured using an infrared-based milk analyzer (MilkoScan FT+, Foss, Denmark). Area under the curve for lactose and glucose were calculated using the trapezoid method. Changes over time in milk lactose and blood glucose were evaluated using mixed model ANOVA with repeated measures. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to evaluate relationships between variables (SAS 9.4). Results were considered significant when P < 0.05. There was a change over time in milk lactose after the concentrate meal (P < 0.0001). Milk lactose was the least pre-feeding (59.0 ± 0.50 g/L) and greatest between 240 to 360 min postprandial (61.6 ± 0.47 g/L; P < 0.05). Blood glucose changed over time after the concentrate meal (P = 0.0365). Pre-feeding glucose was 88.25 ± 2.10 mg/dL which increased to 126.75 ± 10.82 mg/dL by 60 min postprandial (P < 0.05). By 240 min blood glucose was similar to pre-feeding (91.25 ± 6.90 mg/dL; P >0.05). Mean blood glucose AUC was 663 and mean milk lactose AUC was 834. Time to peak glucose was 82.5 min whereas time to peak milk lactose was 225 min. There was no relationship between peak blood glucose and peak milk lactose (P = 0.7311) or AUC for blood glucose or milk lactose (P = 0.8256). The lack of significant relationships may be due to the small sample size. The results from this pilot study demonstrated short term changes in milk lactose after a concentrate meal. Collecting milk samples between 240 to 360 min may be suitable to evaluate dietary effects on milk lactose. However, additional research is needed to evaluate other milk components.
PSIV-A-1 Comparing early and late spring grazing of cereal rye utilizing a high-density, short-duration grazing system
Authors: Stone Rachel , McCann Joshua C , Trennepohl Keela
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to compare forage yield, nutritive value, grazing forage disappearance, in situ dry matter (DM) disappearance, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility between late- and early-grazed cereal rye. Cover crop grazing time varies from year to year due to environmental and management conditions. Cereal rye is a high-yielding forage cover crop; however, rye matures quickly and subsequently declines in nutritive value. This experiment was conducted at Western Illinois University Kerr Farm, Macomb, IL. The late-grazed rye was planted October 9, 2020, while the early-grazed rye was planted November 8, 2022. Rye was planted at a rate of 90 kg/ha with a no-till drill following corn harvest. In yr 1, cereal rye was grazed and sampled during anthesis (mid to late May). In yr 2, cereal rye was grazed and sampled during the late boot stage (in mid to late April). A high-density, short-duration grazing system was used in both years. Cow-calf pairs (n = 58 pairs) grazed 0.40-ha plots for 24 h per plot. Plots were randomly sampled in four locations before and after grazing within a 0.40 m2 forage ring to determine forage nutritive value, height, and yield. All grass within the ring was clipped at approximately 12 cm to mimic grazing. Samples were analyzed at Rock River Laboratories (Watertown, WI) for crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) at 12, 30, and 48 h. In situ DM disappearance was determined using ruminally cannulated beef heifers. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4. Early-grazed rye had a greater (P < 0.01) CP and less (P < 0.01) NDF and ADF than late-grazed rye. Accordingly, early-grazed rye had more than 50% greater (P < 0.01) DM disappearance at 24 and 48 h compared with late-grazed rye. Moreover, early-grazed rye had greater (P < 0.01) NDFD at 12, 30, and 48 h. However, late-grazed rye was 108 cm taller (P < 0.01) before grazing and remained 10 cm taller (P = 0.04) than early-grazed rye after grazing. Late-grazed rye yielded (P < 0.01) more DM than early-grazed rye, 3,873 vs. 1,079 kg/ha, respectively. After grazing, more DM (P < 0.01) remained on early-grazed rye plots than late-grazed rye plots, 496 vs. 2,445 kg/ha, respectively. Cows consumed 20% more DM (P = 0.04) of the early-grazed rye compared with late-grazed rye. Overall, an early-grazed rye cover crop was more digestible with a greater nutritive value and resulted in greater grazing consumption using a high-density, short-duration grazing system.
PSIV-A-4 Effect of late gestational nutrient restriction on locomotor activity of beef heifers
Authors: DeHaven Mattie T , Redifer Colby A , Rathert-Williams Abigail R , Meyer Allison M
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of nutrient restriction on locomotor behavior during late gestation. Fall-calving crossbred beef heifers were moved to 3.7 × 15.8 m partially-covered pens and individually-fed 100% (control; n = 13) or 70% (nutrient restricted; n = 13) of NASEM metabolizable energy and metabolizable protein requirements for maintenance, pregnancy, and growth from d 160 of gestation to calving. Diets were based on chopped sorghum sudan hay fed in Calan gates and supplemented to meet targeted nutritional planes. IceQube accelerometers (iceRobotics, Edinburgh, UK) were placed on the left hind fetlock between d 158 and 168 of gestation to determine standing time, lying time, step count, number of lying bouts, and motion index. Daily behavior data were averaged for 5 distinct periods (period 1: IceQube placement to d 180 of gestation; period 2: d 181 to 201 of gestation; period 3: d 202 to 222 of gestation; period 4: d 223 to 243 of gestation; and period 5: 244 to 264 of gestation). Days in which animals were moved from their pens were excluded from the data set, resulting in an average of 17.2 ± 2.35 d per period. Data were analyzed with fixed effects of nutritional plane, period, and their interaction in the model. Maternal sire and day of treatment initiation were included as covariates. The number of lying bouts was affected (P = 0.02) by the nutritional plane × period interaction. Within period, there was no effect (P ≥ 0.20) of nutritional plane on lying bouts. Lying bouts in control heifers decreased (P = 0.008) from period 1 to 2, whereas lying bouts in nutrient restricted heifers decreased (P = 0.002) from period 1 to 2 before increasing (P = 0.02) again from period 2 to 3. Motion index and step count were affected (P ≤ 0.05) by nutritional plane, where both were greater in control heifers. Motion index and step count were affected (P < 0.001) by period, while standing time and lying time tended to be affected (P ≤ 0.09) by period. Motion index and step count decreased (P < 0.001) between periods 1 and 2 and periods 3 and 4 but increased (P ≤ 0.004) between periods 2 and 3 and periods 4 and 5. Standing time decreased (P = 0.02), while lying time increased (P = 0.02), between periods 3 and 4. These data suggest that nutrient restricted heifers may have reduced locomotor behavior in late gestation compared with control heifers. Throughout all periods of gestation, control heifers took more daily steps and had a greater motion index, suggesting that nutrient availability in late gestation may directly impact locomotor behavior of beef heifers.
PSIV-A-6 Effects of a yeast cell wall additive on the growth performance and fecal Eimeria load of finishing lambs
Authors: Kahler Kristen , Dahmer Payton L
Published: May 2024

Yeast-based additives have been shown to alter the rumen environment and exhibit immunomodulatory properties that can lead to enhancements in health status and subsequent performance. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impacts of supplementing a yeast cell wall additive (Safwallâ, Phileo by Lesaffre, Milwaukee, WI) on finishing lamb growth performance and fecal Eimeria load. A total of 44 Polypay lambs were used in a 35-dexperiment at the Kansas State University Sheep and Meat Goat Center. On d 0, a fresh fecal sample was collected from each lamb and submitted to the Kansas State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab to determine a baseline Eimeria count via quantitative fecal float. Lambs were then randomly assigned to either a control diet or diet supplemented with 1.5 g Safwallâ. Diets were fed for 35-d and contained no coccidiostat. Lambs had ad libitum access to both feed and water for the duration of the experiment. A basal lamb finisher diet was manufactured as a control diet and Safwallâ was hand-mixed into rations daily to make the treatment diet. Lambs and feeders were individually weighed weekly to track dry matter intake (DMI) and changes in body weight (BW). Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (v.9.4, SAS Inst., Cary, NC) with an alpha set at (P < 0.05). From d 0 to 7 there was no evidence of a difference (P = 0.19) in DMI between treatment groups; however, during the second week of the study (d 7 to 14) lambs fed the control diet had significantly greater (P = 0.02) DMI compared with those fed a diet supplemented with yeast cell wall (Table 1). There was no evidence of differences in DMI between treatments for the remainder of the study (P > 0.05). Likewise, BW did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between treatments on d 0 or by d 35. There was no evidence that fecal Eimeria load differed significantly (P > 0.05) on d 0 or 21; however, on d 35, lambs fed the control diet had a decreased Eimeria load compared with those fed a diet with yeast cell wall, but neither group had biologically relevant levels of Eimeria present in the feces. In summary, feeding a diet containing a yeast cell wall additive did not alter finishing lamb growth performance. While lambs fed the control diet had reduced fecal Eimeria at the end of the study, there was a reduction in this variable across both treatments. Further research should be conducted with younger animals with a known Eimeria challenge.
PSIV-A-3 Effect of fiber and stimbiotic on growth performance and the gut microbiome in pigs challenged with F18 enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC)
Authors: Shirer Erika , Watson Alisun N , Story Robert , Maxwell Charles V V , Becker Spenser , Wilcock Pete , Gerhart Amanda J , Zhao Jiangchao , Tsai Tsungcheng Cheng
Published: May 2024

Dietary fiber has been shown to promote a healthy gut microbiota, while stimbiotics enhance fermentable substances and boost the expansion of the commensal microbiome, improving host health by alleviating deleterious effects of proinflammatory responses. The intended purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the effectiveness of dietary fiber sources and stimbiotic on the sustainability of F18 enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) challenge. A total of 216 piglets were blocked (n = 8) by weaning body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments, including corn-SBM based control diet (CC), high fiber diet (HF: 5.0, 3.8. 2.5% sugar beet pulp and 4.0, 3.0 and 2.0% soy hulls for phases 1, 2, and 3, respectively), CC plus 0.01% stimbiotic (CS: Signis, ABVISTA Marlborough, UK), and HF plus 0.01% stimbiotic (FS). Pigs were fed a four-phase feeding regimen: phase 1 (d 0-9), phase 2 (d 9-16), phase 3 (d 16-22), phase 4 (d 22-41). Dietary fiber and stimbiotic were provided from weaning (d 0) to d 22, and then a common diet was fed from d 22 to the end of the trial. On d 5 postweaning, all pigs were orally inoculated with 10 mL of F18 ETEC (108 CFU/mL). One median BW pig from each pen was selected at weaning for fecal sampling. Before the challenge, the same pigs were sampled on d 5 and again on d 8 and d12. Samples were used to quantify the E. Coli using 3M Petrifilm (3M Food Safety, St. Paul, MN) and virulence genes of the isolate were qualified using multiplex PCR. Colony-forming-count was log-transformed. All data normality was verified using Univariate procedure and analyzed using Mixed procedure of SAS (Cary, NC). Pigs fed both CS and HF increased average daily gain (ADG) in phase 2 and phase 1-3 compared with pigs fed CC diets, while adding stimbiotic had no additional benefit to HF (Fiber×Stimbotic P = 0.03 and 0.06, respectively). This response led to heavier BW in pigs fed CS at the end of phase 3 compared with pigs fed CC with HF and FS as intermediate (Fiber×Stimbotic P = 0.06, respectively). Overall, average daily feed intake (ADFI) was greater in pigs fed CS than pigs fed FS while no difference was found between CC and CF (Fiber×Stimbotic P = 0.02). Dietary fiber did not impact gain to feed ratio (G:F); however, G:F was improved in stimbiotic fed pigs in phase 2 (Stimbiotic P = 0.01). Total coliform count was reduced from d 2 to d 7 (day; P < 0.01), but neither fiber nor stimbiotic altered the coliform count. Results of this study demonstrated that both high fiber and stimbiotic help restore ADG when pigs were challenged with ETEC. Additionally, stimbiotic also benefited feed efficiency and resulted in the heaviest BW.
PSIV-A-11 Potential of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae frass as a functional ingredient for nursery pigs
Authors: Rubio Sarah , Kuneff Izadora Batista , Soler Fernando , Espinosa Charmaine , Koutsos Liz , van Heugten Eric
Published: May 2024

Frass is the leftover material from the production of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), which includes chitin-containing exoskeleton shedding, small, processed larvae, leftover dietary substrate, and larvae excrement. A total of 120 nursery pigs (initial body weight of 6.85 ± 0.10 kg) weaned at 21 d of age were used in a 6-wk study to evaluate the effect of increasing dietary levels of frass on growth performance, diarrhea score, and serological indices. Pigs were randomly assigned within sex and body weight blocks to 1 of 3 dietary treatments using 30 pens (4 pigs/pen; 10 replicates/treatment). Diets were prepared from a common basal and fed in 3 dietary phases of 2 wk each and included: 1) a control diet based primarily on corn and soybean meal; 2) the control with 3% added frass; and 3) the control with 6% added frass. On d 4, 7, and 14, individual fecal samples were obtained using fecal loops and were evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5 representing hard, normal, soft, watery soft, and watery liquid feces, respectively. Blood samples were collected on d 42 from 1 median pig per pen for the analysis of serum chemistry. Data were analyzed using the mixed model procedures as a randomized complete block design using linear and quadratic contrast comparisons to determine the effects of frass. Supplementation of frass linearly increased average daily gain (ADG) from d 7 to 14 (P = 0.044; 347.9, 378.8, and 396.8 g/d for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and tended to linearly increase ADG during Phase 1 (P = 0.079; 265.1, 284.8, and 298.6 g/d). No differences were observed for final body weight (P ≥ 0.146; 29.90, 31.48, and 30.70 kg for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and overall ADG, average daily feed intake (ADFI), or gain to feed ratio (G:F). Diarrhea scores increased (P < 0.001) from d 4 (2.96) to d 7 (4.20) and then decreased (P < 0.001) on d 14 (3.69). Inclusion of frass at 6% had a decreased diarrhea score compared with 3% frass on d 7 (P = 0.029), but pigs fed 6% frass had a greater diarrhea score (P = 0.038) than pigs fed the control diet on d 14. However, scores were indicative of diarrhea for all treatments on d 7 and 14. Serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltranspeptidase, urea N, creatinine, glucose, Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, Cl, triglycerides, amylase, cholesterol, and creatine phosphokinase measured on d 42 were not different (P > 0.093) between treatments. All serological analytical results were generally within normal expected ranges. In conclusion, these findings suggest that dietary inclusion of frass may improve growth performance of nursery pigs, especially during the early stages of the nursery period.
PSIV-A-13 The relationship between breed-wide expected progeny differences, genomic predictors, and phenotypic values in mature Angus cows
Authors: Riddle Jacy , Holder Amanda
Published: May 2024

For many years, selection for improved beef production centered on heavier weaning weights and more rapid post-weaning gain. More recently, measurement of post-weaning feed intake has facilitated direct improvement in feed efficiency in the feedlot. However, intake on a high concentrate diet is controlled by different biological mechanisms than intake on a high roughage diet. For this reason, the question remains whether an animal that efficiently converts calories from a high-quality concentrate-based ration similar to that of a feedlot diet where the expected progeny differences (EPDs) and genomic predictors (GPs) are developed would also be an efficient forage utilizer as a mature cow. To evaluate this relationship, we compared breed-wide EPDs and predictors to performance on a roughage diet and on a concentrate diet in mature cows. The objective of this study was to determine if EPDs and GPs developed and used in feedlots are applicable to commercial cow/calf producers utilizing forages and other roughages as the main diet ingredient. Data for this study were collected at Oklahoma State University from the fall of 2018 to the spring of 2021. Tissue samples from 64 mature Angus cows were submitted to Neogen for profiling according to genetic potential for 16 different traits. In each trial, retained energy (RE), dry matter intake (DMI), milk production (MILK), mature weight (MW), and average daily gain (ADG) were recorded and compared with the corresponding EPD and GP. Pearson correlations were determined between phenotypic values, GPs, and EPDs for both diets on each trial. No EPD or GP was significantly correlated to any measured trait on the forage diet. The DMI EPD was strongly correlated with DMI on a concentrate-based diet, however, did not predict DMI on a forage diet in mature cows. Based on the evaluations performed in this study, selecting for animals that perform well in the feedlot may be inadvertently selecting for mature cows that perform poorly on a typical mature cow diet of medium to low-quality forages.
PSIV-A-12 Ruminal in vitro digestibility of novel pennycress meal using the Daisy II incubator
Authors: Brown Alyssa , Prybylski Emma G , Neuleib Lauren , McCann Joshua C , Heller Nicholas , Earing Jennifer E
Published: May 2024

Field pennycress seed has a high oil content, making it valuable for biofuel production. The high protein content of the resulting pennycress meal makes it a potentially valuable protein feedstuff for livestock. However, pennycress meal also contains greater content of fiber, erucic acid, and glucosinolates, which limit its use in livestock rations. Golden pennycress, a novel pennycress, was developed to contain greater oil content and decreased content of fiber, increasing the value of pennycress meal as a potential livestock feed. The objective of this research was to characterize a novel pennycress meal using an in vitro rumen fermentation system. Digestion of golden pennycress (GPC), black-seeded pennycress (BPC), and a total mixed ration (TMR, as the control), was evaluated in vitro using the Daisy II incubator. Each incubation vessel contained 12 filter bags (4 containing GPC, 4 containing BPC, and 4 containing the TMR). Rumen fluid was collected from two cannulated steers and processed according to Ankom procedures; samples were incubated in the rumen fluid inoculum for either 24 or 48 h. Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) of GPC averaged 23% (dry matter basis) and was less than the BCP NDF content (30%, dry matter basis). In vitro true dry matter disappearance (IVTDMD) and in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) were calculated and shown in Table 1. Proc Mixed procedures of SAS were used to identify difference in digestibility. Due to the novelty of golden pennycress, this study appears to be the first that compares ruminal digestibility of pennycress meals, thereby establishing initial data relative to the feeding value of GPC. As the novel pennycress was developed to have a reduced fiber level, the reduced NDF content of GPC over BPC was expected. The significant increase of IVTDMD of GPC compared with BPC at either incubation length suggests increased overall digestibility and improved dry matter utilization of the novel pennycress. Additional research investigating the reduced NDFD of GPC is warranted. As the first study evaluating the use of golden pennycress meal in ruminant diets, this study provides baseline values from which to build additional research projects.
Antibody-drug conjugates in solid tumors; new strategy for cancer therapy
Authors: Takakura Toshiaki , Shimizu Toshio , Yamamoto Nobuyuki
Published: May 2024

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have emerged as a novel class of anticancer treatment. ADCs are composed of three parts: a monoclonal antibody, a linker and a payload. A monoclonal antibody binds to the specific antigen present at the cancer cells, allowing selective delivery of the cytotoxic agents to the tumor site. Several ADCs are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of hematologic cancers and solid tumors with clinically meaningful survival benefit. However, the development of ADCs faces a lot of challenges and there is a need to get better understanding of ADCs in order to improve patient outcomes. Here, we briefly discuss the structure and mechanism of ADCs, as well as the clinical data of current approved ADCs in solid tumors.
Utility of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as an indicator of tumor immune status in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Iwata Kazuma , Suzawa Ken , Hashimoto Kohei , Tanaka Shin , Shien Kazuhiko , Miyoshi Kentaroh , Yamamoto Hiromasa , Okazaki Mikio , Sugimoto Seiichiro , Toyooka Shinichi
Published: May 2024

Background

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported as a prognostic biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, the underlying biological rationale remains unclear. The present study aimed to explore the potential utility of NLR as a surrogate biomarker for immune response to cancer and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Methods

This retrospective study included the medical records of 120 patients with NSCLC who underwent surgery at the study institution in 2012. NLR in peripheral blood was determined from blood test within 30 days before surgery. Tumor immune status was evaluated using immunohistochemical staining to identify CD3+, CD8+ and FOXP3+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and the relationship of NLR, with clinicopathologic characteristics including 5-year overall survival (OS), and the tumor immune status was investigated. The median values of NLR and TIL count were used as cutoff points.

Results

The 5-year OS was significantly better in patients with low NLR (<2.2) than in those with high NLR (≥2.2) (70.1% vs. 56.8%, P = 0.042) and in patients with high CD3+ TIL count (≥242) than in those with low CD3+ TIL count (<242) (70% vs. 56.8%, P = 0.019). Additionally, the CD3+ TIL count was negatively correlated with preoperative NLR (P = 0.005).

Conclusion

NLR might potentially reflect the immune status of tumor microenvironment, explaining its impact on prognosis of patients with NSCLC.
Review and meta-analysis of correlates of home range size in bats
Authors: Wood Matthew R , de Vries J Low , Monadjem Ara , Markotter Wanda
Published: May 2024

Home range is an ecological concept that affects many aspects of the life of vertebrates and hence understanding how it varies between species is crucial. Mammalian home range size has been linked to body size and diet, but these studies were based predominantly on terrestrial species and most specifically excluded bats. As the only group of flying mammals, bats experience distinctly different constraints on movement, and hence home range. However, despite their diversity, relatively little is known about the home ranges of bats, and this is the first global review assessing correlates of their home range size. Our hypothesis is that home range will be impacted by different ecological conditions experienced by the bats and by the biological traits of the bats themselves. We performed a meta-analysis based on published data for 81 bat species to identify variables that contribute most to home range size. Sex, wing loading, functional group, colony size, dietary class, distance from the equator (latitudinal region), habitat type, and the interaction between habitat type and latitudinal region were all important explanatory variables. Wing loading was positively correlated with home range size—while females, open-air foragers, large colony sizes, and bats in temperate regions consistently had large home ranges. Understanding the correlates of home range has important implications, for example, for bat conservation and for assessing the risk of spillover of zoonotic pathogens from bats to humans and livestock.
Assessment of optimal blood exposure time at 37 °C during in vitro tsetse flies feeding for quality production in mass-rearing colonies
Authors: Pagabeleguem Soumaïla , Yoda Rebecca Lebcara , Somda Martin Bienvenu , Toé Ange Irénée , Bagayogo Abdramane , Dao Daouda , Dabiré Metuor Amana , Yoni Moise
Published: May 2024

Control of African animal trypanosomosis is implemented through an integrated control strategy, with the sterile insect technique (SIT) as one of its components. The SIT requires mass rearing of tsetse fly colonies using an in vitro feeding system. The exposure of blood at 37 °C on heating plates over time can have an impact on the quality of fly productivity. In this study, we investigated the survival and fecundity of adult tsetse flies fed at 37 °C on 8 blood exposure times ranging from 30 min to 4 h with increments of 30 min (treatment 1, flies were fed 30 min after exposure to blood at 37 °C; treatment 2, 1 h and so on until treatment 8 [4 h after]) in order to determine the optimal exposure time. In addition, bacterial growth in blood from each treatment was assessed by agar culture at 37 °C for 72 h. The results showed that the adult female survival rates were similar regardless of the treatment. For males, only those of treatment 1 (30 min) showed a marginal lower survival than those of treatments 7 and 8 fed after 3 h 30 min and 4 h of blood exposure, respectively. Over the 4-h interval of blood exposure at 37 °C, the results showed that the number of pupae produced per initial female and pupal weight tended to increase with exposure time, but the differences were not significant. We discuss the implications of these results on tsetse mass rearing for the SIT program.
Quality-of-life outcomes in metastatic spinal cord compression: findings from the SCORAD trial
Authors: Hoskin Peter J , Reczko Krystyna , Rashid Memuna , Hackshaw Allan , Lopes Andre ,   the SCORAD Investigators, Hopkins K , Misra V , Holt T , McMenemin R , McKinna F , Krishnaswamy M , Bates A , O’Rourke N , Lester J , Sevitt T , Roos D , Brown G , Shibu Thomas S , Forsyth S
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This article reports detailed quality-of-life data including preferred and actual place of care from SCORAD, the only large prospective randomized trial in metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC).

Methods

SCORAD compared 2 doses of radiotherapy in patients with MSCC: 8 Gy single fraction and 20 Gy in 5 fractions. In total, 686 patients were randomized, of whom 590 had Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) data collected at baseline and at least 1 later time point. HRQoL was measured using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire–Core 30 supplemented with the QLU-C10D and data on place of care at weeks 1, 4, 8, and 12 postrandomization. Quality-of-Life Adjusted Survival was computed by multiplying Kaplan-Meier survival probabilities with the UK utility weights obtained from the QLU-C10D.

Results

Patients with a baseline physical functioning score of above 50 demonstrated a 28% reduction in the risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.72, 99% confidence interval [CI] = 0.54 to 0.95; P = .003). An increased risk of death was associated with fatigue (HR = 1.35, 99% CI = 1.03 to 1.76; P = .0040), dyspnea (HR = 1.61, 99% CI = 1.24 to 2.08; P < .001), and appetite loss (HR = 1.25, 99% CI = 0.99 to 1.59; P = .014). The preferred place of care for the majority was at home or with relatives (61%-74% across the 12 weeks) but achieved by only 53% at 8 weeks.

Conclusions

Prolonged survival in patients with MSCC was associated with better HRQoL. More than 60% of patients preferred to be cared for at home or with relatives, but only half were able to achieve this. There was no difference in HRQoL between the multifraction and single-fraction groups.

Trial registration

ISRCTN97555949 and ISRCTN97108008.
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 regulates CYP27A1-induced myometrial contraction during preterm labor
Authors: Peng Ting , Cui Jiayan , Ni Ziyun , Tang Yao , Cao Xiaojing , Li Sihan , Cheng Xixi , Huang Jin
Published: May 2024

Persistent and intense uterine contraction is a risk factor for preterm labor. We previously found that methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), as a target of infection-related microRNA miR-212-3p, may play an inhibitory role in regulating myometrium contraction. However, the molecular mechanisms by which MeCP2 regulates myometrial contraction are still unknown. In this study, we found that MeCP2 protein expression was lower in myometrial specimens obtained from preterm labor cases, compared to those obtained from term labor cases. Herein, using RNA sequence analysis of global gene expression in human uterine smooth muscle cells (HUSMCs) following siMeCP2, we show that MeCP2 silencing caused dysregulation of the cholesterol metabolism pathway. Notably, MeCP2 silencing resulted in the upregulation of CYP27A1, the key enzyme involved in regulating cholesterol homeostasis, in HUSMCs. Methylation-specific PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and dual luciferase reporter gene technology indicated that MeCP2 could bind to the methylated CYP27A1 promoter region and repress its transcription. Administration of siCYP27A1 in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced preterm labor mouse model delayed the onset of preterm labor. Human preterm myometrium and the LPS-induced preterm labor mouse model both showed lower expression of MeCP2 and increased expression of CYP27A1. These results demonstrated that aberrant upregulation of CYP27A1 induced by MeCP2 silencing is one of the mechanisms facilitating inappropriate myometrial contraction. CYP27A1 could be exploited as a novel therapeutic target for preterm birth.
Photon counting detector computed tomography in pediatric cardiothoracic CT imaging
Authors: Siegel Marilyn J , Ramirez-Giraldo Juan C
Published: May 2024

Photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) is the most recent advancement in CT technology and has the potential to change clinical practice. Unlike conventional energy-integrated-detector (EID) that uses a two-step process to convert X-rays into a digital signal, PCD-CT directly converts photon energies into electronic signal. The advantages of PCD-CT over EID-CT are higher spatial resolution, electronic noise reduction, higher contrast-to-noise ratio, improved radiation dose efficiency, and intrinsic spectral imaging. Successful implementation into clinical practice requires adaptations in CT protocols. In this review, we summarize the basic principles of PCD-CT and technical scanning factors followed by a discussion of its clinical benefits in pediatric pulmonary and cardiovascular imaging.
Pricing protest: the response of financial markets to social unrest
Authors: Barrett Philip , Bondar Mariia , Chen Sophia , Chivakul Mali , Igan Deniz
Published: May 2024

We identify start days of 156 episodes of social unrest from textual analysis of media reports and show a systematic negative impact of social unrest on stock market performance. Social unrest on average leads to a 1.4 percentage point drop in cumulative abnormal returns in 2 weeks, more for events that last longer and that happen in emerging markets. Stronger institutions, particularly better governance and more democratic systems, are associated with a smaller adverse impact of social unrest on stock market returns. We argue this reflects the ability of better institutions to provide a more reliable way to reconcile conflicting views and dampen uncertainty after unrest.
Factors Influencing the Self-management of Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema
Authors: Wang Ying , Wei Tingting , Li Miaomiao , Wu Peipei , Qiang Wanmin , Wang Xian , Shen Aomei
Published: May 2024

Background

Patients with breast cancer have an estimated 14% to 60% risk of developing lymphedema after treatment. Self-management behavior strategies regarding lymphedema are essential in preventing and alleviating the severity of lymphedema.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate qualitative research evidence on the potential influencing factors for self-management behaviors of lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

A systematic search of 10 electronic databases was conducted to identify qualitative studies on patient experience of lymphedema self-management. The following databases were included and appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist: Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Med Online, and Chinese Biomedical Database.

Results

The literature search yielded 5313 studies, of which only 22 qualitative studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Five synthesized findings were derived encompassing personal characteristics, personal knowledge and experience, personal health beliefs, self-regulation skills and abilities, and social influences and support.

Conclusions

Patients with breast cancer are confronted with many challenges when performing self-management of lymphedema. Therefore, it is important to recognize potential facilitators and barriers to further offer practical recommendations that promote self-management activities for lymphedema.

Implications for Practice

Healthcare professionals should receive consistent training on lymphedema management. On the basis of individual patient characteristics, tailored education and support should be provided, including transforming irrational beliefs, and improving related knowledge and skills, with the aim to promote self-management behaviors with respect to lymphedema.
Towards a toolkit for global insect biodiversity monitoring
Authors: van Klink Roel , Sheard Julie Koch , Høye Toke T. , Roslin Tomas , Do Nascimento Leandro A. , Bauer Silke
Published: May 2024

Insects are the most diverse group of animals on Earth, yet our knowledge of their diversity, ecology and population trends remains abysmally poor. Four major technological approaches are coming to fruition for use in insect monitoring and ecological research—molecular methods, computer vision, autonomous acoustic monitoring and radar-based remote sensing—each of which has seen major advances over the past years. Together, they have the potential to revolutionize insect ecology, and to make all-taxa, fine-grained insect monitoring feasible across the globe. So far, advances within and among technologies have largely taken place in isolation, and parallel efforts among projects have led to redundancy and a methodological sprawl; yet, given the commonalities in their goals and approaches, increased collaboration among projects and integration across technologies could provide unprecedented improvements in taxonomic and spatio-temporal resolution and coverage. This theme issue showcases recent developments and state-of-the-art applications of these technologies, and outlines the way forward regarding data processing, cost-effectiveness, meaningful trend analysis, technological integration and open data requirements. Together, these papers set the stage for the future of automated insect monitoring.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Towards a toolkit for global insect biodiversity monitoring’.
Systematic challenges and opportunities in insect monitoring: a Global South perspective
Authors: Sánchez Herrera Melissa , Forero Dimitri , Calor Adolfo Ricardo , Romero Gustavo Q. , Riyaz Muzafar , Callisto Marcos , de Oliveira Roque Fabio , Elme-Tumpay Araseli , Khan M. Kawsar , Justino de Faria Ana Paula , Pires Mateus Marques , Silva de Azevêdo Carlos Augusto , Juen Leandro , Zakka Usman , Samaila Akeweta Emmanuel , Hussaini Suwaiba , Kemabonta Kehinde , Guillermo-Ferreira Rhainer , Ríos-Touma Blanca , Maharaj Gyanpriya
Published: May 2024

Insect monitoring is pivotal for assessing biodiversity and informing conservation strategies. This study delves into the complex realm of insect monitoring in the Global South—world developing and least-developed countries as identified by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development—highlighting challenges and proposing strategic solutions. An analysis of publications from 1990 to 2024 reveals an imbalance in research contributions between the Global North and South, highlighting disparities in entomological research and the scarcity of taxonomic expertise in the Global South. We discuss the socio-economic factors that exacerbate the issues, including funding disparities, challenges in collaboration, infrastructure deficits, information technology obstacles and the impact of local currency devaluation. In addition, we emphasize the crucial role of environmental factors in shaping insect diversity, particularly in tropical regions facing multiple challenges including climate change, urbanization, pollution and various anthropogenic activities. We also stress the need for entomologists to advocate for ecosystem services provided by insects in addressing environmental issues. To enhance monitoring capacity, we propose strategies such as community engagement, outreach programmes and cultural activities to instill biodiversity appreciation. Further, language inclusivity and social media use are emphasized for effective communication. More collaborations with Global North counterparts, particularly in areas of molecular biology and remote sensing, are suggested for technological advancements. In conclusion, advocating for these strategies—global collaborations, a diverse entomological community and the integration of transverse disciplines—aims to address challenges and foster inclusive, sustainable insect monitoring in the Global South, contributing significantly to biodiversity conservation and overall ecosystem health.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Towards a toolkit for global insect biodiversity monitoring’.