bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSVI-18 Effects of Vitamin U Supplementation on Growth Performance, Carcass and Gastric Keratinization Scores in Aspirin-Induced Gastric Ulcer Finishing Pigs
Authors: Jang Se Yeon , Yu Sun Gu , Lim Chai Bin , Shanchuan Cao , Kim In Ho
Published: October 2023

Oesophagogastric ulceration is a common disease in pigs. It is almost exclusively confined to the non-glandular pars-oesophagea. The prevalence of this gastric ulcer has been raised globally. Vitamins and trace elements play important roles in different physiological processes in pigs. Requirements of these elements will depend on ages, physiological statuses and feeds. Hence, there were only limited studies conducted on Methyl methionine sulfonium chloride (also known as Vitamin U), particularly in barrows and gilts. Thus, we investigated the beneficial effects of Vitamin U supplementation on the gastric ulcer problem of finishing pigs. One hundred-forty [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] barrows and gilts (86.5 ± 1.5 kg) were used in a 28-d experiment in a randomized complete blocked design and assigned to TRT1 (basal diet); TRT2- (basal diet + stress), TRT3 (basal diet + 0.05 % Vitamin U), TRT4 (basal diet + aspirin 15g (3 days) + stress), and TRT5 (basal diet + aspirin 15g (3 days) + stress + 0.1 Vitamin U ), respectively. The active ingredients of Vitamin U: 50mg/g, MgO 60mg/g, Na2CO3 70mg/g. TRT 5 group pigs showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in final body weight and average daily gain (ADG) compared with other groups. However, there was no significant difference in body condition scores between treatment groups (P > 0.05). Stomach keratinization scores were significantly greater in TRT2 and 4 than in TRT 3 (P < 0.05). In summary, the addition of Vitamin U (stayvill) to the diet improved the degree of gastric ulcer to a certain extent and effectively improve growth performance in finishing pigs.
PSIV-8 The Effects of Quercetin Supplementation During Oocyte Maturation on the in Vitro Production of Pig Embryos
Authors: Nau Cameron , Throop Makayla , Christy Alayna , Whitaker Brian D
Published: October 2023

Oocyte viability can be reduced during in vitro maturation due to oxidative stress and a lack of antioxidant presence in the environment. Additionally, oxidative stress is a culprit in the relatively low success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in pigs. Quercetin is a natural antioxidant dietary flavonoid that has the ability to suppress free radical formation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the quercetin supplementation during oocyte maturation on IVF embryonic development success rates in pigs. Oocytes were matured for 40 to 44 h supplemented with quercetin (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 mM; Sigma-Aldrich Co.) then fertilized using frozen-thawed boar semen (1.0 x 105 sperm cells/mL) and co-incubated for 6-8 h followed by embryo culture for 144 h. After maturation, oocytes were evaluated for cumulus cell expansion (n = 300, r = 6) under a stereomicroscope (scale 0 to 4) then denuded to determine reactive oxygen species (ROS) production (n = 135) by measuring the fluorescent intensity from the oxidation of 2’,7’-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. After IVF, zygotes were fixed, permeabilized, and stained with bisBenzimide H 33342 trihydrochloride and evaluated for penetration, polyspermy, and pronucleus formation rates (n = 480) and embryos were evaluated for cleavage and blastocyst formation (n = 599) at 48 h and 144 h post-IVF, respectively. Cumulus cell expansion score percentages were determined and analyzed using the Chi-squared test. Fluorescent intensities of oocytes were analyzed using a GLM and compared using LSD after adjusting the control group value to 1. The IVF and embryo development data were reported as the percent observed/drop and mean percentages, and were analyzed using GLM. Means were analyzed using Tukey’s test. The average cumulus cell expansion post-maturation when no quercetin was supplemented was 2.78 ± 0.15. As quercetin supplementation increased, cumulus cell expansion decreased (1.33 ± 0.11 for 0.75 mM quercetin). Supplementation of 0.25 mM quercetin decreased (P < 0.05) ROS levels (0.52 ± 0.12) but 0.75 mM quercetin increased (P < 0.05) ROS levels (1.73 ± 0.11) compared with no quercetin. Supplementation of quercetin decreased (P < 0.05) oocyte penetration rates, increased (P < 0.05) polyspermic oocytes and pronuclear formation. Quercetin supplementation during maturation also reduced embryonic development success through decrease (P < 0.05) of cleavage and blastocyst formation rates compared with no quercetin (78.69 ± 0.02 and 31.18 ± 0.03, respectively). It appears that quercetin supplementation to the oocyte maturation media in concentrations greater than 0.25 mM are detrimental during in vitro production of pig embryos. Supplementation of 0.25 mM quercetin appears to not be different to supplementing quercetin to the maturation media except for reduction in ROS concentrations in the oocyte.
PSIV-11 The Effects of Vanillic Acid Supplementation During in Vitro Oocyte Maturation in Pigs
Authors: Throop Makayla , Christy Alayna , Nau Cameron , Whitaker Brian D
Published: October 2023

In vitro fertilization (IVF) typically has low success rates in pigs partially due to the negative effects of oxidative stress on both the sperm and egg. Antioxidants, such as vanillic acid, are known to have protective effects on the oocyte in terms of maturation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of vanillic acid supplementation during porcine oocyte maturation on reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, IVF, early embryonic development success rates, membrane lipid peroxidation, and catalase activity. Oocytes were matured for 40 to 44 h supplemented with vanillic acid (0, 3, 6, 12 mg/mL; Sigma-Aldrich Co.). After maturation, oocytes were denuded and either evaluated for ROS production (n = 183, r = 3) by measuring the fluorescent intensity from the oxidation of 2’,7’-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate, membrane lipid peroxidation (n = 360), catalase activity (n = 724), or fertilized using frozen-thawed boar semen (1.0 x 105 sperm cells/mL) and co-incubated for 6 to 8 h followed by embryo culture for 144 h. After IVF, presumptive zygotes were fixed, permeabilized, and stained with bisBenzimide H 33342 trihydrochloride and evaluated for penetration, polyspermy, and pronucleus formation rates (n = 390) and embryos were evaluated for cleavage and blastocyst formation (n = 529) at 48 h and 144 h post-IVF, respectively. Fluorescent intensities indicating ROS of individual oocytes, lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, and were analyzed using GLM, and means were compared using LSD. The IVF and embryo development data were reported as the percent observed/drop, and mean percentages, and means were analyzed using a GLM with differences being compared using Tukey’s test. Supplementation of 6 g/mL vanillic acid or 12 mg/mL vanillic acid reduced (P < 0.05) the amount of ROS (0.68 ± 0.06, 0.63 ± 0.06; respectively) compared with no vanillic acid supplementation (1 ± 0.06). Vanillic acid supplementation did not have any effect on oocyte penetration rates; however both 6 mg/mL and 12 mg/mL vanillic acid decreased (P < 0.05) polyspermic penetration rates (23.79 ± 0.02, 24.03 ± 0.02; respectively), and increased (P < 0.05) pronuclear formation (83.76 ± 0.02, 84.80 ± 0.02; respectively). Supplementation of vanillic acid had no effect on cleavage rates (78.69 ± 0.02) by 48 h post-IVF or blastocyst formation (31.18 ± 0.03) by 144 h post-IVF. Supplementation of 6 mg/mL vanillic acid decreased (P < 0.05) membrane lipid peroxidation (0.46 ± 0.06) and catalase activity (0.01 ± 0.01) compared with no vanillic acid supplementation (0.79 ± 0.06, 0.03 ± 0.01; respectively). Based on these results, supplementation of 6 mg/mL vanillic acid or 12 mg/mL vanillic acid during oocyte maturation reduces the amount of ROS formed in vitro and improves IVF success rates. Supplementation of 6 mg/mL decreases catalase activity and membrane lipid oxidation following oocyte maturation.
PSI-6 Effect of Calcium Magnesium Carbonate And/or Tylosin Phosphate Supplementation on Behavior and Rumination Activity in Yearling Beef Steers Fed a Finishing Diet
Authors: Maday Haley , Grimes Becca , Francis Forest L , Gubbels Erin R , Norman Thomas , Hanson Santana , Ribeiro Thiago Maia , Smith Zachary K , Ross Cassidy , Paulus Devan
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of CaMg(CO3)2 (MIN-AD, Papillon Agricultural Company, Easton, MD; MA) and or tylosin phosphate (Tylan, Elanco, Indianapolis, IN; TY) supplementation on 24-hour behavior and rumination activity of yearling beef steers fed a finishing diet. A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used resulting in 4 dietary treatments: no MA and no TY (-MA/-TY), MA and no TY (MA/-TY), no MA and TY (-MA/TY), or MA and TY (MA/TY). Beef steers (n = 158; 469 ± 18.0 kg) were randomly assigned to dietary treatments with pen (n = 20 pens total, 10 pens/main effect mean, and 5 pens/simple effect mean) serving as the experimental unit. The MA was included at 1.5% of the diet (DM basis) in replacement of dry-rolled corn and TY was provided at 90 mg·animal-1·d-1. Observation began at 0800 h and ended at 0750 h the following day, resulting in a 24-hour observation period. Observations were recorded on a pen basis, with number of animals/type of activity recorded every 10 minutes on d 42 on feed (22 d on finisher). Activity categories included number of animals drinking (DR), eating (EA), active (standing; AC), ruminating (RU), and resting (RE) per pen. Chewing (CHE) was determined as the sum of eating and ruminating activity. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design with the fixed effects of MA, TY, and their interaction; block (pen location) was considered a random effect. An interaction was noted between MA and TY for time spent drinking (P = 0.03) and ruminating (P = 0.01). Steers from -MA/TY spent more time drinking compared with the -MA/-TY and MA/TY steers; steers from MA/-TY were intermediate (P < 0.10). Steers from -MA/-TY ruminated 28% longer compared with MA/-TY steers (P = 0.05) and 20% longer than -MA/TY (P = 0.05), steers from MA/TY ruminated 16% longer than steers from MA/-TY (P = 0.05), while steers from -MA/TY were intermediate (P > 0.10). The main effect of MA tended to increase time spent eating by 19.3% (P = 0.06); however, no differences (P ≥ 0.28) were noted for the main effects of MA or TY for minutes/day spent chewing, resting, or active. These results indicate that supplementation of MA may alter feeding behavior, resulting in increased minutes/day spent eating. In addition, supplementation of TY and MA may result in increased water intake, and alter time spent ruminating per day.
PSV-14 Effects of Forage or Coproduct-Based Transition Diets on the Rumen Microbiome and Ruminal Fermentation ex Vivo in Feedlot Steers
Authors: Linder Haley F , Fritz Adam , McCann Joshua C
Published: October 2023

The objective was to determine the effect of replacing forage with coproducts in transition diets on rumen microbiome composition and ruminal fermentation ex vivo after steers consumed a common finishing diet. A random subset of 30 steers were selected from a larger, separate pen study. Steers were blocked by initial BW and allotted into 9 pens. Pens were then assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments for the 35 d adaptation period: a forage-based diet (FO; alfalfa and grass hay), a coproduct-based diet (CO; soybean hulls and modified wet distillers grains with solubles), and a coproduct-based diet pair-fed (CO-P) to isoenergetic levels of FO. Dry-rolled corn inclusion increased with either decreasing forage or coproduct inclusion. Both FO and CO were fed with slick bunk management. At d 35 and 63, rumen fluid was collected by esophageal tubing to determine differences in fermentation of the finishing diet as the substrate in an ex vivo model. Rumen fluid was also utilized for microbiome analysis using 16S rRNA sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform with 2 × 300 bp paired-end sequencing. Sequencing reads were analyzed within QIIME2. Statistical analyses were conducted using SAS 9.4. Fermentation data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure, while bacterial relative abundance data were analyzed in the GLIMMIX procedure. Correlations were analyzed using the CORR procedure. A treatment × sampling day interaction (P = 0.02) was observed for in vitro dry matter disappearance; on d 35, it was greater in steers fed CO compared with CO-P (58 vs. 53%, respectively), but no differences were observed on d 63. Within the rumen microbiome, there was a tendency (P = 0.06) for alpha diversity to have a treatment × day interaction. Specifically, CO steers had the greatest decrease in alpha diversity from d 35 to 63, but there was no change in alpha diversity in FO steers and CO-P steers over time. Final pH in from the ex vivo model was positively correlated (r = 0.32) with Bacteroidetes relative abundance but negatively correlated (r = -0.25) with Proteobacteria (P ≤ 0.05). In vitro dry matter disappearance was positively correlated (r = 0.38) with relative abundance of Firmicutes, but negatively correlated (r = -0.43) with Proteobacteria (P < 0.01). Dietary treatment did not affect (P ≥ 0.21) richness within the rumen microbiome. Rumen microbiome composition and ex vivo fermentation results suggest all treatments were adapted for the finishing diet at the conclusion of the 35-d adaptation period.
PSVI-4 The Influence of Diet Type on Beef Cattle Performance and Meat Quality Characteristics
Authors: Royer Lillian R , O’Malley Micah L , Privett Grady A , Holder Amanda
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of diet type on feed intake in yearling steers. Hereford steers (n = 21; BW = 444 ± 10 kg) were assigned to one of three drylot pens based on initial BW. Each drylot pen was assigned to one of three diets: a long-stemmed grass hay (HAY, 10.8% CP, 2.11 Mcal ME/kg DM), an alfalfa hay diet (ALF, 20.5% CP, 2.85 Mcal ME/kg DM) or a mixed ration consisting of 30.0% corn silage, 28.0% DDGS, 30.0% rolled corn, 10.5% soybean meal, and 1.5% mineral supplement (CON, 22.0% CP, 2.90 Mcal ME/kg DM). Animals were fed daily at 0700 and 1700 h and weighed weekly at 0630 h. For the duration of the trial, animals were housed in drylot pens with ad libitum access to feed and water and had shade structures in each pen. Following a 14-day adaptation period, feed intake was recorded for 35 days. Body weight gain for diets HAY, ALF, and CON were 0.1, 0.77, and 1.47 kg/day, respectively. After the intake portion of the study was completed, an animal from each pen was slaughtered and evaluated for meat quality. Hot carcass weights for diets HAY, ALF, and CON were 237.4, 334.7, and 394.8 kg, respectively. Following 14 days aging, samples from the ribeye area were collected from each animal and subjected to sensory analysis and other assessments of quality. Data were analyzed as a completely random design in SAS v9.4. There was not a significant difference between the ALF diet and the CON diet based on assessment from Warner-Bratzler shear force, carcass yield, marbling score, and sensory assessment (P < 0.05). It was concluded that high-quality forage can achieve similar carcass quality without detrimental effects on meat quality when compared with a high concentrate diet.
PSI-A-3 Validation of Rising Plate Meter for Predicting Herbage Mass in Tall-Fescue Pastures
Authors: Grey Kayla R , Hernandez Esmeralda Lopez , Ewing Kylie P , McCann Joshua C , Shike Daniel W
Published: October 2023

The objective was to compare herbage mass (HM) estimates using a rising plate meter (RPM) and hand-sampled total collections using a forage ring. Accurate measurement of HM can be used to budget available forage in grazing systems, particularly as grass is a dynamic resource. While accurate estimation of HM can be achieved through total forage collection obtained from clipped quadrants, this is labor-intensive and time-consuming. For optimal and informed management, grass needs to be measured quickly and reliably in relation to both accuracy and precision. An RPM can be used to estimate the HM of grasslands based on the compressed sward height (CSH). However, device reliability can be affected by the naturally large variation of dry matter (DM) within CSH, which is governed by numerous factors, such as plant growth state, season species composition, and grassland management regime. Forage samples and heights were obtained weekly from grazed paddocks, which were rotated daily, over a 10-week period from June 6 to August 2, 2022. Paddocks were predominately endophyte-infected tall fescue. Each week two paddocks were randomly selected for sampling. Across both paddocks a total of 9 hand-clipped samples were randomly collected using a 0.25 m2 forage ring. All the forage within the forage ring was collected and dried for 48 h at 55 °C to determine forage DM. A Jenquip Manual Platemeter was used to measure the CSH within the forage ring before clipping. Herbage mass was estimated using the rising plate meter equation (kg DM/hectare = rising plate meter height × 158 + 200). The data were analyzed using CORR procedure of SAS 9.4. Herbage mass measured by total ring collection and RPM were not correlated (r = 0.15; P = 0.17). When RPM and total ring collection forage mass were averaged by pasture, they tended to be correlated (r = 0.44; P = 0.07). When the outlier weeks (samples 1 ,5, 6, and 7) were removed, HM measured by the total ring collection was correlated (r = 0.41; P = 0.01) to RPM. The variability in correlations across pastures and time suggest that further work is needed to understand how variables like season, weather, and clipping procedures affect reliability of RPM to accurately predict forage mass.
PSI-A-1 Effects of Agolin-Pig on Milk Composition Throughout Lactation
Authors: Denton Alicia N , Fisk Alexandra , Harlow KaLynn , Scaff Taw , Richert Brian T , DeDecker Ashley , Hoogland Marlin , Parsley Mike , Stewart Kara R
Published: October 2023

Essential oils are increasingly being used in the swine industry as an alternative to antibiotics. New areas of research indicate that essential oils may alter milk composition and production in lactating sows with the potential of increasing resistance of piglets to harmful bacteria. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine the effects of Agolin-Pig, a product containing micro-encapsulated essential oils, on milk composition and production. The treatment group (n = 13) consisted of sows fed 200 ppm of Agolin-Pig mixed in an in-house premix combined with a standard lactation diet (NRC, 2012). The control group (n = 13) consisted of sows fed the same diet without added essential oils. All sows were started on their corresponding diets 14 days before their calculated farrowing date. Sows were induced on day 114 of gestation if they had not already farrowed. Colostrum was collected within 2 hours of the onset of farrowing from all teats and mixed to form a 50 to 100 mL homogenate, representative sample. On days 3 and 14 of lactation, sows were administered 0.5 mL of oxytocin via their ear vein to induce milk ejection. Three teats were selected along the midline of the sow and milked completely into 3 separate, corresponding 50 mL conical tubes. All milk samples were stored at -20°C until analysis. Protein composition of the three teats was averaged by sow before statistical analysis. Weigh-suckle-weigh (WSW), an indirect measure of milk production, was performed on d 10 to 12 of lactation by removing piglets from the sow for 45 minutes before recording a litter weight. The piglets were then returned to the sow to nurse for 30 minutes and weighed again. Colostrum and milk samples were analyzed for protein composition via a Bradford assay using a bovine serum albumin (BSA) standard. The PROC Mixed procedure of SAS v9.4 (Cary, North Carolina) was used to evaluate the effects of Agolin-Pig on the protein composition of milk at day 0, day 3, and day 14 of lactation along with WSW data. Treatment and parity (P1 vs P ≥ 2) were main effects with day of collection as a repeated measure and the random effect of sow. There was a significant decrease for both groups in protein composition from day 0 to 3 (P = 0.0001) and day 0 to 14 (P < 0.0001) with no significant change between day 3 to 14, which is expected as colostrum transitions into whole milk. There were no significant differences between treatment groups in protein milk composition throughout lactation. WSW data showed no significant differences between treatments in milk production. While no significant differences were observed in milk composition and production, future analysis will show the effects of Agolin-Pig on milk fat and immunoglobulin composition during lactation.
PSI-A-7 Prediction Models for Estimating Metabolizable Energy Intake of Pigs Based on Body Weight and Ambient Temperature
Authors: Park No A , Son Jeonghyeon , Kim Beob G
Published: October 2023

Prediction models for estimating feed intake (FI) or metabolizable energy intake (MEI) of pigs are available in the literature. During the recent two decades, several reports have addressed the influence of heat stress on FI. The objectives of the present work were to validate the accuracy of prediction equations for estimating FI or MEI of pigs in the literature using data from heat stress experiments and to develop novel equations for estimating FI and MEI of pigs under thermoneutral or heat stress environment. A total of 123 data from 25 research papers measuring the effects of heat stress on FI of pigs published between 2001 and 2021 were used for the validation of previous equations and the development of novel equations. In the 25 papers, the thermoneutral temperature (T) ranged from 17 to 24℃ and the heat stress T ranged from 21 to 35℃. The body weight (BW) of pigs ranged from 19 to 119 kg. In the first validation study, the equation for estimating FI was evaluated: FI, g/day = –1,264 + 73.6×BW – 0.26×BW2 + 117×T – 2.40×T2 – 0.95×T×BW. The slope representing a linear bias did not differ from 0 but the intercept representing a mean bias was greater than 0 (109 ± 36; P < 0.01), meaning that the predicted mean underestimated the FI. In the second validation study, the equation for estimating MEI using equations for lower critical temperature (LCT) and fraction of MEI: LCT, ℃ = 17.9 – 0.0375×BW and fraction of MEI = 1 – 0.012914 × [T – (LCT + 3)] – 0.001179 × [T – (LCT + 3)]2. The slope representing a linear bias did not differ from 0 but the intercept representing a mean bias was greater than 0 (731 ± 68; P < 0.001), meaning that the predicted mean underestimated the MEI. A novel equation for estimating MEI under thermoneutral or heat stress environment was developed: MEI, kcal/day = 2,603 + 137×BW – 0.189×BW2 – 38.4×T – 0.556×T2 – 1.165×T×BW (P < 0.001; R2 = 0.83). An equation for estimating fraction of MEI under thermoneutral or heat stress environment was also developed: fraction of MEI = 1 – 0.00677 × [T – (LCT + 3)] – 0.000668 × [T – (LCT + 3)]2 (P < 0.001; R2 = 0.98). In conclusion, previously published equations underestimate FI and MEI and novel equations for estimating MEI under thermoneutral or heat stress environment have been developed in the present work. However, the novel equations have not been validated under cold stress.
PSI-A-12 Evaluation of Novel and Traditional Cover Crops Utilizing Cattle in High-Density, Short-Duration Grazing
Authors: Westerfield Brooklyn , Trennepohl Keela , Wilcoxen Delson , McCann Joshua C , Benards Mark
Published: October 2023

The objective was to evaluate yield, nutritive value, and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) of traditional and non-traditional cover crops utilizing short-duration, high-density grazing. This experiment was conducted at Western Illinois University Kerr Farm, Macomb, Il. Cow-calf pairs (n = 58) grazed 0.4046 hectare plots in spring 2021. Dry cows (n = 58) grazed 0.4046 hectare plots in the fall 2021. Grazing duration was 24 hours per plot. In the spring, five plots of rye were grazed. In the fall, two plots of kernza, two plots of cover crop mix (CMIX), and one plot of red clover were grazed. The cover crop mix contained 12 varieties including brassicas, legumes, cereal grains, and grasses. Kernza is a novel perennial crop harvested for grain in the summer and used for grazing in the fall and winter. Plots were randomly sampled four times pre and post grazing using a 0.4047 square meter forage ring. All grass within the ring was clipped leaving 10.16-15.24 cm of material to mimic grazing. Forage height was recorded using a tape measure. Samples were collected and dried prior to combining and averaging data. Data pre- and post-grazing included DM, forage height, and DM yield. Cattle intake was calculated using pre- and post-grazing DM yields. Samples were analyzed at Rock River Laboratories (Watertown, WI) for CP, aNDF, ADF, and NDFD at 12, 30, and 48 hours. Data were analyzed using the Mixed procedure of SAS 9.4. Means were determined using LSMeans and separated using the p-diff function. Pre-grazing height of rye was 141 cm, CMIX was 87.6 cm, while kernza and red clover were both 26.7 cm (P < 0.01). Rye was most abundant in kg/ha of DM pre-graze and post-graze (P < 0.01). Cows consumed over 50% of kernza and CMIX, but only 29% of rye (P < 0.01). Forage dry matter percentages did not differ. Kernza had a lower CP (6.36%) than rye (8.91%; P = 0.02). Kernza CP did not differ from CMIX at 7.78% (P = 0.19). Kernza had a 7.18% greater aNDF than rye (P = 0.04). The aNDF of CMIX (55.56%) was greater compared with red clover at 44.75% (P = 0.04). Kernza ADF was 49.22% compared with rye at 43.8% (P = 0.02). The CMIX had the most desirable NDFD at 12, 24, and 48 hours (P < 0.01). Data indicated that rye, kernza, red clover, and cover crop mixtures offer value in high-intensity, short-duration cover crop grazing in terms of nutritive value and NDFD for cattle. Rye had the greatest DM yield values but less consumption by cattle due to forage maturity.
PSI-A-2 Effects of Microencapsulated Zinc Oxide on Nursery Pig Growth Performance and Intestinal Morphology
Authors: Dahmer Payton L , Fisher Elizabeth , Jones Cassandra K
Published: October 2023

The inclusion of pharmacological levels of zinc oxide (ZnO) has been used to enhance the health and performance of piglets immediately post-weaning for decades, but there is consumer and regulatory pressure to limit this practice. Microencapsulation can allow for a more targeted release and better utilization of zinc oxide, thus making it a viable alternative to conventional ZnO. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the impact of a microencapsulated ZnO on growth performance and intestinal morphology in newly weaned pigs. A total of 300 nursery pigs (DNA 200 x 400; initially 6.03 ± 0.08 kg BW) were allotted in a completely randomized design to one of five dietary treatments: 1) Negative control (basal diet with no added ZnO); 2) basal diet + 3,000 ppm added Zn from ZnO in phase 1 and 2,000 ppm added Zn from ZnO in phase 2; 3) basal diet + 400 ppm added Zn from ZnO; 4) 3,000 ppm added Zn from microencapsulated ZnO in phase 1 and 2,000 ppm added Zn from microencapsulated ZnO in phase 2; and 5) 400 ppm added Zn from microencapsulated ZnO in phases 1 and 2. Pigs were fed treatment diets from d 0 to 28, and a common diet was fed to all pigs from d 29 to 42. To determine average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed efficiency (G:F), pigs and feeders were weighed weekly. On d 28, 6 piglets per treatment were euthanized to collect small intestinal samples. Tissue samples were fixed in formalin, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and slides were then evaluated for villi height (VH) and crypt depth (CD) on 10 villi per sample. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. There was no evidence of differences (P > 0.05) in ADG, ADFI or G:F for the entire treatment period (d 0 to 28); however, pigs fed the negative control or a diet with microencapsulated ZnO had improved (P < 0.0001) ADG and ADFI during the common period compared with pigs fed conventional ZnO. There was no evidence of differences (P > 0.05) in the VH and CD of both proximal and distal ileum samples. Results indicate the need for further investigation of the use of M-ZnO in post weaned nursery pigs.
PSI-A-8 The Effect of Rumen Capacity Manipulation on Dry Matter Intake on Diets Differing for Processing Level
Authors: Privett Grady A , O’Malley Micah L , Royer Lillian R , Holder Amanda
Published: October 2023

Rumen fill is a driving force behind intake in ruminant animals consuming unprocessed forage. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of rumen available capacity on feed intake of diets processed to different levels. To evaluate the effect of rumen capacity, intake of a fistulated Angus heifer (716 kg, 4 yr) was evaluated at full rumen capacity and one-half capacity on the same diet processed to three different fiber lengths: unprocessed, long-stemmed hay, processed in a bale buster to fiber lengths of 15 cm, and ground hay with fiber lengths of 3 cm. The heifer was housed in a drylot pen with ad libitum access to water and consumed the diet out of a SmartFeed individual intake unit. The intake unit was filled twice a day at 0700 and 1700 h. The heifer consumed each diet for a period of 10 days. The first 5 days of each period the heifer consumed the diet at full rumen capacity, for the remaining 5 days of each period, two weather balloons were inserted into the rumen and distended with water to reduce rumen capacity to 50% capacity. As expected, the heifer consumed more of the diet when the diet had some form of further processing (P < 0.05). Rumen capacity affected intake in a linear manner related to the level of processing in the diet (P < 0.05).
Is “4 for $16” Better than “4 for $15.30”? The Price Divisibility Effect in Multipack Purchases
Authors: Park Hanyong , Kwon JaeHwan , Bagchi Rajesh
Published: October 2023

While much is known about product bundles comprised of different items, much less is known about multipacks—a product set comprised of multiple identical items (e.g., a 4-pack body washes). Using the context of multipacks, the authors propose a novel price divisibility effect, which suggests that a multipack’s price that is easily divisible (vs. non-divisible) by the number of component items in the multipack will increase its purchase likelihood. For example, purchase likelihoods of a four-pack body wash multipack will be higher when its price is $16 (easily divisible by 4) versus $15.30 (non-divisible by 4). This occurs because a divisible versus non-divisible price shifts consumers’ attention to the unit and creates a belief that each unit item in the multipack will be consumed quickly, which, in turn, helps justify purchasing multiple units. The authors report findings from 15 studies (including a field experiment), where they demonstrate the effect and its underlying mechanism and delineate several moderators and boundary conditions. This research contributes to several literature streams, including those on product bundling, multiple-unit pricing, product consumption, and numerical cognition.
TDM copyright for AI in Europe: a view from Portugal
Authors: Pereira Alexandre L. Dias
Published: October 2023

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) justified the introduction at the level of the European Union (EU) of a new copyright exception regarding text and data mining (TDM) for purposes of scientific research conducted by research organizations and entities responsible for cultural heritage. This exception is binding and mandatory, as Member States have to provide it in their domestic laws and it cannot be excluded by contract nor by technical measures. In addition to this exception for scientific purposes, a general TDM exception is provided, which is also binding but only applies by default, meaning that it can be excluded by contract and/or by technical measures. The default TDM exception also applies to computer programs, raising the question whether acts allowed under the Software Directive can now be excluded by contract and/or technical measures. It is far from clear whether the new regime extends or, on the contrary, restricts freedom of innovation in AI and whether and how the TDM copyright will contribute to the development of AI and encourage ‘machine learning’ in Europe. The Portuguese implementation of the new ‘TDM copyright’ has been faithful to EU law, and therefore, AI development in Portugal will be carried out under the copyright terms of the Digital Single Market Directive, which seeks a fair balance between the principle of high-level protection of rightholders, the rights and freedoms of users and the good functioning of the digital market in the EU.
How people’s concepts of marriage, childbearing, childrearing, and child education affect their fertility willingness and behaviour under the three-child policy in China?
Authors: Guo Qingmin
Published: October 2023

Fertility is not only related to childbearing but also relevant to marriage, childrearing, and child education. To explore how Chinese people’s concepts of marriage, childbearing, childrearing, and child education affect their fertility willingness and behaviour in the context of the three-child policy, an empirical investigation was conducted through a questionnaire survey of 507 respondents and semi-structured interviews with 40 respondents in 2022. Some key issues are revealed: First, betrothal gifts are commonly recognized; late marriage is widely accepted; and out-of-wedlock birth is largely disapproved. Secondly, the importance of traditional reproductive purposes has declined but still significantly affects some respondents. Fertility willingness is very low for three children but relatively high for two children. The four most important reasons for not having three children are: limited economic conditions; shortage of childcare; high costs of raising children; and concerns about career development. Thirdly, grandparents are the primary child caregivers in addition to parents. Women undertake more childcare compared with their spouses. Inclusive and high-quality childcare services are highly needed. Fourthly, the family is over-reliant on school education but undervalues family education. The costs of education and training are the primary financial burden of childrearing. This article puts forward four recommendations following a discussion of the investigation.
ATCA study of Small Magellanic Cloud supernova remnant 1E 0102.2–7219
Authors: Alsaberi Rami Z E , Filipović M D , Dai S , Sano H , Kothes R , Payne J L , Bozzetto L M , Brose R , Collischon C , Crawford E J , Haberl F , Hill T , Kavanagh P J , Knies J , Leahy D , Macgregor P J , Maggi P , Maitra C , Manojlović P , Martín S , Matthew C , Ralph N O , Rowell G , Ruiter A J , Sasaki M , Seitenzahl I R , Tokuda K , Tothill N F H , Urošević D , van Loon J Th , Velović V , Vogt F P A
Published: October 2023

We present new and archival Australia Telescope Compact Array and Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array data of the Small Magellanic Cloud supernova remnant 1E 0102.2–7219 at 2100, 5500, 9000, and 108 000 MHz; as well as H i data provided by the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder. The remnant shows a ring-like morphology with a mean radius of 6.2 pc. The 5500 MHz image reveals a bridge-like structure, seen for the first time in a radio image. This structure is also visible in both optical and X-ray images. In the 9000 MHz image, we detect a central feature that has a flux density of 4.3 mJy but rule out a pulsar wind nebula origin, due to the lack of significant polarization towards the central feature with an upper limit of 4  per cent. The mean fractional polarization for 1E 0102.2–7219 is 7 ± 1 and 12 ± 2  per cent for 5500 and 9000 MHz, respectively. The spectral index for the entire remnant is −0.61 ± 0.01. We estimate the line-of-sight magnetic field strength in the direction of 1E 0102.2–7219 of ∼44 µG with an equipartition field of $65\pm 5\, \mu$G. This latter model uses the minimum energy of the sum of the magnetic field and cosmic ray electrons only. We detect an H i cloud towards this remnant at the velocity range of ∼160–180 km s−1 and a cavity-like structure at the velocity of 163.7–167.6 km s−1. We do not detect CO emission towards 1E 0102.2–7219.
Infliximab biosimilar-induced lupus nephritis: A case report
Authors: Shidahara Kenta , Katsuyama Takayuki , Hirose Kei , Matsumoto Kazuya , Nawachi Shoichi , Nakadoi Takato , Asano Yosuke , Katayama Yu , Miyawaki Yoshia , Katsuyama Eri , Takano-Narazaki Mariko , Matsumoto Yoshinori , Sada Ken-Ei , Wada Jun
Published: October 2023

We present a case of microhematuria, proteinuria and hypocomplementemia which developed in a 55-year-old female who was being treated with an infliximab biosimilar for rheumatoid arthritis. Renal biopsy showed lupus nephritis (ISN/RPS classification class IV + V). Treatment with the infliximab biosimilar was discontinued, and treatment with prednisolone, hydroxychloroquine and abatacept was started, resulting in clinical remission of lupus nephritis and RA. Although tumour necrosis factor-α α inhibitors are known to induce production of autoantibodies, symptoms are usually limited to skin involvement or arthritis, and renal complications are rare. Physicians should be aware of the risk of lupus nephritis and carefully monitor patients for the development of renal involvement during treatment with tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitors.
Structural and functional investigation of GajB protein in Gabija anti-phage defense
Authors: Oh Hyejin , Koo Jasung , An So Young , Hong Sung-Hyun , Suh Jeong-Yong , Bae Euiyoung
Published: October 2023

Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect bacteria and archaea. To fend off invading phages, the hosts have evolved a variety of anti-phage defense mechanisms. Gabija is one of the most abundant prokaryotic antiviral systems and consists of two proteins, GajA and GajB. GajA has been characterized experimentally as a sequence-specific DNA endonuclease. Although GajB was previously predicted to be a UvrD-like helicase, its function is unclear. Here, we report the results of structural and functional analyses of GajB. The crystal structure of GajB revealed a UvrD-like domain architecture, including two RecA-like core and two accessory subdomains. However, local structural elements that are important for the helicase function of UvrD are not conserved in GajB. In functional assays, GajB did not unwind or bind various types of DNA substrates. We demonstrated that GajB interacts with GajA to form a heterooctameric Gabija complex, but GajB did not exhibit helicase activity when bound to GajA. These results advance our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying Gabija anti-phage defense and highlight the role of GajB as a component of a multi-subunit antiviral complex in bacteria.
A protein engineering approach toward understanding FKBP51 conformational dynamics and mechanisms of ligand binding
Authors: Lerma Romero Jorge A , Meyners Christian , Rupp Nicole , Hausch Felix , Kolmar Harald
Published: October 2023

Most proteins are flexible molecules that coexist in an ensemble of several conformations. Point mutations in the amino acid sequence of a protein can trigger structural changes that drive the protein population to a conformation distinct from the native state. Here, we report a protein engineering approach to better understand protein dynamics and ligand binding of the FK506-binding protein 51 (FKBP51), a prospective target for stress-related diseases, metabolic disorders, some types of cancers and chronic pain. By randomizing selected regions of its ligand-binding domain and sorting yeast display libraries expressing these variants, mutants with high affinity to conformation-specific FKBP51 selective ligands were identified. These improved mutants are valuable tools for the discovery of novel selective ligands that preferentially and specifically bind the FKBP51 active site in its open conformation state. Moreover, they will help us understand the conformational dynamics and ligand binding mechanics of the FKBP51 binding pocket.
Gender bias in team formation: the case of the European Science Foundation’s grants
Authors: Pezzoni Michele , Visentin Fabiana
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates gender bias (if any) when teams are formed. We use data from the European Science Foundation to estimate if female scientists have the same opportunities as their male colleagues to join a team when applying for funds. To assess gender bias, we construct a control group of scientists with the competencies for being invited to join the team but who do not join. By comparing the proportion of female scientists in the control group with the one in the observed teams, we find a gender bias against female scientists. Exploring heterogeneity across teams, we find that gender bias is less pronounced in teams led by women, junior scientists, and in more recently formed teams. We also observe differences across disciplines.
Silicon dioxide-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress of alveolar macrophages and its role on the formation of silicosis fibrosis: a review article
Authors: Li Shuang , Zhao Jiahui , Han Guizhi , Zhang Xin , Li Ning , Zhang Zhaoqiang
Published: October 2023

Silicosis is a chronic lung inflammatory disease induced by long-term inhalation of high concentrations of silicon dioxide (SiO2), characterized by pulmonary fibrosis. Inhalation of silica invades alveolar macrophages (AMs) and changes the micro-environment of the cell, resulting in abnormal morphology and dysfunction of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Once beyond the range of cell regulation, the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) will occur, which will lead to cell damage, necrosis, and apoptosis, eventually causing silicosis fibrosis through various mechanisms. This is a complex and delicate process accompanied by various macrophage-derived cytokines. Unfortunately, the details have not been systematically summarized yet. In this review, we systematically introduce the basic two processes: the process of inducing ERS by inhaling SiO2 and the process of inducing pulmonary fibrosis by ERS. Moreover, the underlying mechanism of the above two sequential events is also be discussed. We conclude that the ERS of alveolar macrophages caused by silica dust are involved deeply in the pathogenesis of silicosis. Therefore, changing the states of SiO2-induced ERS of macrophage may be an attractive therapeutic target for silicosis fibrosis.
Alteration of cholesterol content and oxygen level in intestinal organoids after infection with Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Mergani AhmedElmontaser , Meurer Marita , Wiebe Elena , Dümmer Katrin , Wirz Katrin , Lehmann Judith , Brogden Graham , Schenke Maren , Künnemann Katrin , Naim Hassan Y. , Grassl Guntram A. , von Köckritz‐Blickwede Maren , Seeger Bettina
Published: October 2023

The pathogenicity elicited by Staphylococcus (S.) aureus, one of the best‐studied bacteria, in the intestine is not well understood. Recently, we demonstrated that S. aureus infection induces alterations in membrane composition that are associated with concomitant impairment of intestinal function. Here, we used two organoid models, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived intestinal organoids and colonic intestinal stem cell‐derived intestinal organoids (colonoids), to examine how sterol metabolism and oxygen levels change in response to S. aureus infection. HPLC quantification showed differences in lipid homeostasis between infected and uninfected cells, characterized by a remarkable decrease in total cellular cholesterol. As the altered sterol metabolism is often due to oxidative stress response, we next examined intracellular and extracellular oxygen levels. Three different approaches to oxygen measurement were applied: (1) cell‐penetrating nanoparticles to quantify intracellular oxygen content, (2) sensor plates to quantify extracellular oxygen content in the medium, and (3) a sensor foil system for oxygen distribution in organoid cultures. The data revealed significant intracellular and extracellular oxygen drop after infection in both intestinal organoid models as well as in Caco‐2 cells, which even 48 h after elimination of extracellular bacteria, did not return to preinfection oxygen levels. In summary, we show alterations in sterol metabolism and intra‐ and extracellular hypoxia as a result of S. aureus infection. These results will help understand the cellular stress responses during sustained bacterial infections in the intestinal epithelium.
Associations of Race With Sedation Depth Among Mechanically Ventilated Adults: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ramadurai Deepa , Kohn Rachel , Hart Joanna L. , Scott Stefania , Kerlin Meeta Prasad
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the association of race with proportion of time in deep sedation among mechanically ventilated adults.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort study from October 2017 to December 2019.

SETTING:

Five hospitals within a single health system.

PATIENTS:

Adult patients who identified race as Black or White who were mechanically ventilated for greater than or equal to 24 hours in one of 12 medical, surgical, cardiovascular, cardiothoracic, or mixed ICUs.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

The exposure was White compared with Black race. The primary outcome was the proportion of time in deep sedation during the first 48 hours of mechanical ventilation, defined as Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale values of –3 to –5. For the primary analysis, we performed mixed-effects linear regression models including ICU as a random effect, and adjusting for age, sex, English as preferred language, body mass index, Elixhauser comorbidity index, Laboratory-based Acute Physiology Score, Version 2, ICU admission source, admission for a major surgical procedure, and the presence of septic shock. Of the 3337 included patients, 1242 (37%) identified as Black, 1367 (41%) were female, and 1002 (30%) were admitted to a medical ICU. Black patients spent 48% of the first 48 hours of mechanical ventilation in deep sedation, compared with 43% among White patients in unadjusted analysis. After risk adjustment, Black race was significantly associated with more time in early deep sedation (mean difference, 5%; 95% CI, 2–7%; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS:

There are disparities in sedation during the first 48 hours of mechanical ventilation between Black and White patients across a diverse set of ICUs. Future work is needed to determine the clinical significance of these findings, given the known poorer outcomes for patients who experience early deep sedation.
Typology of ICU-Healthcare Providers Who Delayed or Declined COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Azoulay Elie , Pochard Frédéric , Dumas Guillaume , Kentish-Barnes Nancy ,   FAMIREA Study Group
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES:

To assess COVID-19 vaccination rates in ICU-healthcare providers (HCPs) in France and to identify the typology of those who delayed or declined vaccination.

DESIGN:

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING:

Twenty-one ICUs in France.

SUBJECTS:

Members of the nursing and medical staff and other allied professionals.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Six hundred ninety-six of the 950 respondents (73.3%) had undergone a full vaccination schedule. Other HCPs either declined vaccination (n = 112) or delayed vaccination until it became mandatory (n = 142). Factors independently associated with full vaccination were age older than 50 years (odds ratio, 0.25 [95% CI, 0.12–0.51]), more than 5 years of ICU experience (0.66 [0.47–0.93]), increasing working time during the surge (0.94 [0.88–1.00]), and spending time with the family (0.92 [0.85–0.99]). Conversely, being a nurse (1.94 [1.25–2.99]) or a nurse assistant (2.77 [1.62–4.73]), and feeling not supported by hospital and ICU directors (1.49 [1.01–2.20]) was independently associated with not being vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results are important to take into account to better implement vaccination strategies in HCPs for existing or future pandemics.