bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Exogenous Glucocorticoid Administration on Appetitic Center Brain Development in Dairy Bull Calves
Authors: McCarty Keelee J , Long Nathan
Published: May 2021

The objective of study was to determine the effects of exogenous cortisol on leptin concentrations and appetitic center development of perinatal dairy bull calves. Holstein bull calves (n = 27) were weighed and randomly assigned to treatments within 4 h of parturition (d0). Each calf was intravenously infused with either a low cortisol (LC; n = 9, 3.5 ug/kg of BW), high cortisol (HC; n = 9, 7.0 ug/kg of BW), or a sham infusion control (CON; n = 9, similar volume of saline). Each calf was administered a second infusion (half dose) of its respective treatment 24 h postpartum. All calves were housed similarly and fed milk replacer (28% CP, 20% fat) three times daily. Blood was collected via jugular venipuncture before infusion and from d 0–5 of age. At 5 d of age, calves were euthanized via sodium pentobarbital overdose. Cerebral-spinal fluid (CSF) from the third ventricle of the brain, hypothalamus, and adipose tissue (AT; omental, perirenal, and mesenteric) were collected. Blood and CSF samples were analyzed for leptin concentrations via a validated RIA. Adipose tissue samples were analyzed via western blotting for leptin and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression and normalized to glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) expression. Hypothalamus samples were analyzed via qRT-PCR for genes associated with neuronal growth factors and normalized to the average of two housekeeping genes. All data were analyzed via ANOVA or repeated measures analysis using appropriate models (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Serum and CSF leptin concentrations were decreased (P < 0.013) in HC and LC compared to CON. Leptin protein expression was decreased (P < 0.044) in perirenal and omental AT of LC calves compared to CON. Hypothalamic expression of BDNF, FGF1, and FGF2 were decreased (P < 0.006) in HC and LC compared to CON. In summary, exogenous cortisol administered to calves at birth reduced leptin concentrations and altered appetitic control center development of the brain.
The Effect of Melatonin Supplementation on Dam Milking Traits and Calf Performance in Beef Cattle
Authors: Reid Dana S , Geary Thomas W , Zezeski Abigail L , Reil M Susan , Waterman Richard C , Devost-Burnett Derris D , Lemley Caleb O
Published: May 2021

Melatonin has been documented to alleviate compromised pregnancies and enhance livestock performance traits. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of melatonin supplementation on milking traits in beef cattle dams and subsequent influence on calf performance. Cows (n = 60) were blocked based on embryo transfer donor and sire, potential calf breed and embryo grade. At d190, 220 and 250 of gestation, dams were administered either 2 subdermal ear melatonin implants (preMEL) or no implants (preCON). After parturition, birth weights were recorded and calves randomly received either melatonin implants (posMEL) or none (posCON) on approximately d 0, 30, and 60. At approximately d 60 of lactation, a subset of dams (n = 32) were selected based on age, weight and calf sex for milk collection and analysis. At weaning, calf weight and morphometric data were collected and adjusted according to weaning age. Prenatal melatonin administration did not change calf birth weight (P = 0.956). Milk yield tended to decrease in the preMEL group (P = 0.054) at 2.368 kg ± 0.11 compared to preCON at 2.054 kg ± 0.11. Milk fat percent tended to decrease (P = 0.07) in preMEL at 3.25 ± 0.19 versus preCON at 3.92 ± 0.19. There were no differences in prenatal treatment in respect to milk protein, lactose, solid non-fats, somatic cell count, and urea nitrogen (P > 0.16). At weaning, calf head circumference decreased (P < 0.031) in the preMEL group at 77.92cm ± 0.42 versus preCON at 79.31cm ± 0.45. Otherwise, there were no prenatal or postnatal treatment differences in respect to weaning weight, crown-rump length, hip height and head length (P > 0.12). Previous studies show crown-to-rump length and ponderal index differences. Our lack of differences might be attributed to geographical locations that impact day length or endogenous melatonin status.
Profitability of Supplementing Dried Distillers’ Grains Cubes to Improve Animal Performance and Replace N Fertilizer for Steers Grazing Introduced Pastures
Authors: Adams Jordan , Farris Rodney , Clawson Scott , Ward Earl , Beck Paul
Published: May 2021

During the summer grazing season, steers grazing introduced forages are oftentimes provided supplemental protein and energy to improve animal performance. However, it is important to determine if the additional supplementation is economically beneficial. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the profitability of supplementing dried distillers’ grains cubes (DDGS) to improve animal performance or replace the use of N fertilizer (112 kg N/ha from urea) for steers (n = 149; BW = 238 ± 13.8 kg) grazing mixed tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea)/bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) pastures (n = 9 pastures, 7.2 ± 2.90 ha) from April 14 to September 17 (n = 155 d) using an enterprise budget analysis. Main plot supplemental treatments (n = 3 pastures/treatment) included 1) Fertilized Control (FC), no supplementation on fertilized pastures; 2) Fertilized Supplement (FS), 2.9 kg/steer DDGS supplemented 3-d/wk on fertilized pastures; and 3) Supplement (S), supplemental DDGS at 0.75% BW/d prorated for 5-d/wk feeding on unfertilized pastures. The assumptions used in this analysis were based on actual costs of inputs for pasture management and the DDGS offered, as well as the 5-year average Oklahoma auction market prices for 227 kg steers in April and 386 kg steers in October. Total cost per hectare was greater for S (P < 0.01), was least (P < 0.01) for FC, and FS was intermediate (P < 0.01). Cost per kg gain for FS and S was greater (P < 0.01) than for FC. Gross return per hectare tended to be greatest for S (P = 0.06), but net return per hectare was less for FS and S (P < 0.01) than FC. Although FS and S allowed for improvement of animal performance, our results imply that FC was the most profitable due to the cost of supplementation and low supplemental efficiency of S and FS.
Effects of Maternal Nutrient Restriction During Gestation on LH Production in the Female Bovine Fetus
Authors: Fahey Sterling H , West Sarah , Long John M , Satterfield Carey , Cardoso Rodolfo C
Published: May 2021

Gestational nutrient restriction causes epigenetic and phenotypic changes that affect multiple physiological processes in the offspring. Gonadotropes, the cells in the anterior pituitary that secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), are particularly sensitive to nutritional changes during fetal development. Our objective herein was to investigate the effects of gestational nutrient restriction on LH protein content and number of gonadotropes in the fetal bovine pituitary. We hypothesized that moderate nutrient restriction during mid to late gestation decreases pituitary LH production, which is associated with a reduced number of gonadotropes. Embryos were produced in vitro with X-bearing semen from a single sire then split to generate monozygotic twins. Each identical twin was transferred to a virgin dam yielding four sets of female twins. At gestational d 158, the dams were randomly assigned into two groups, one fed 100% NRC requirements (control) and the other fed 70% of NRC requirements (restricted) during the last trimester of gestation, ensuring each pair of twins had one twin in each group. At gestational d 265, the fetuses (n = 4/group) were euthanized by barbiturate overdose, and the pituitaries were collected. Western blots were performed using an ovine LH-specific antibody (Dr. A.F. Parlow, NIDDK). The total LH protein content in the pituitary tended to be decreased in the restricted fetuses compared to controls (P < 0.10). However, immunohistochemistry analysis of the pituitary did not reveal any significant changes in the total number of LH-positive cells (control = 460±23 cells/0.5 mm2; restricted = 496±45 cells/0.5 mm2, P = 0.58). In conclusion, while maternal nutrient restriction during gestation resulted in a trend of reduced LH content in the fetal pituitary, immunohistological findings suggest that these changes are likely related to the individual potential of each gonadotrope to produce LH, rather than alterations in cell differentiation during fetal development.
Melatonin-induced Changes in the Bovine Vaginal Microbiota During Maternal Nutrient Restriction in Brangus Heifers
Authors: Messman Riley D , Lemley Caleb O , Contreras-Correa Zully E , Paz Henry A
Published: May 2021

Altering the composition of the bovine vaginal microbiota has proved challenging; with recent studies deeming the microbiota dynamic due to few overall changes being found. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine if gestational age, endogenous progesterone, maternal nutrient restriction, or dietary melatonin altered the composition of the bovine vaginal microbiota. Brangus heifers (n = 29) from timed artificial insemination to d 240 of gestation were used; at d 160 of gestation, heifers were assigned to either an adequate (ADQ; n = 14; 100% NRC requirements) or restricted (RES; n = 15; 60% NRC requirements) nutritional plane and were either supplemented with dietary melatonin (MEL; n = 15) or not supplemented (CON; n = 14). Samples for vaginal microbiota analysis were taken on d 0 (prior to artificial insemination), d 150 (prior to dietary treatments), and d 220 of gestation (60 days post-treatment initiation) using a double guarded culture swab. The vaginal bacterial community composition was determined through sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene using the Illumina Miseq platform. Alpha diversity was compared via two-way ANOVA; beta diversity was compared via PERMANOVA. The linear discriminant analysis for effect size (LEfSe) pipeline was utilized for analysis of taxonomic rank differences between bacterial communities. Gestational age, progesterone concentration, and maternal nutritional plane did not alter alpha or beta diversity of the vaginal microbiota. However, gestational age resulted in compositional changes at the order, family, and genus level. Moreover, dietary melatonin supplementation did not alter alpha diversity of the vaginal microbiota but did alter beta diversity (P = 0.02). Specifically, melatonin altered the composition at the genus level and increased the prevalence of aerobic bacteria in the vaginal tract. To date, melatonin is the first hormone associated with altering the composition of the vaginal microbiota.
Effects of Winter vs. Year-round Supplementation of Multiparous Bos Indicus-influenced Beef Cows on Offspring Postnatal Growth, Immunity, and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Palmer Elizabeth A , Vedovatto Marcelo , Oliveira Rhaiza A , Ranches Juliana , Vendramini Joao , Poore Matt H , Moriel Philipe
Published: May 2021

This 2-yr study evaluated the effects of winter vs. year-round supplementation of Bos indicus-influenced beef cows on offspring feedlot performance. Brangus cows (82–84 cows/yr) were stratified by BW and BCS (475 ± 67 kg; 4.85 ± 0.73) and randomly assigned to bahiagrass pastures (13–14 cows/pasture). Treatments were randomly assigned to pastures (2 pastures/treatment/yr) and consisted of winter supplementation with molasses (MOL-W), or year-round supplementation with molasses (MOL-Y) or cubes (CUB-Y). Supplements were isocaloric and isonitrogenous (75% TDN, 20% CP; DM basis). Total yearly supplement DM amount was 272 kg/cow for all treatments. At weaning (d 421), 33–35 steers/yr were vaccinated against bovine respiratory disease, transported for 720 miles to the feedlot, penned according to prepartum pasture distribution, and fed the same corn silage-based diet until harvest. Data were analyzed using SAS GLIMMIX procedure. Cow BCS at calving was greater (P < 0.01) for MOL-Y and CUB-Y vs. CON cows. Calving rate, calving date, calf birth weight, and calf preweaning BW did not differ (P ≥ 0.22) among treatments. Steer feedlot BW did not differ (P ≥ 0.36) at time of feedlot entry but was greater (P ≤ 0.05) for MOL-Y and MOL-W steers vs. CUB-Y steers at feedlot exit. Plasma haptoglobin concentrations at feedlot entry were greater (P = 0.05) for CUB-Y vs. CON steers, with MOL-Y steers being intermediate, whereas plasma cortisol concentrations at feedlot entry were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for CUB-Y vs. MOL-Y and MOL-W steers. Marbling score, yield grade, and carcass weight did not differ (P ≥ 0.14), but CON steers had greater fat thickness at the 12th rib than MOL-Y and CUB-Y steers. Hence, year-round supplementation (molasses or cubes) of beef cows increased cow BCS at calving but had minor effects on offspring post-weaning growth and immunity compared to winter supplementation of molasses.
The Influence of Diet Type on Ranking for Feed Intake in Angus Cows
Authors: Holder Amanda , Rogers James , Walker Ryon , Beck Paul
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of diet type on feed intake in mature Angus cows. Forty-eight gestating Angus cows (708 ± 52 kg; 7 ± 0.75 years old) were assigned to one of four drylot pens based on their genomic score for residual feed intake (“High” RFI, 7.3 ± 0.5, “Low” RFI, 5.5 ± 0.7). Each pen contained an automatic waterer as well as four GrowSafe individual feed intake units. During the first period, two of the four pens were assigned to a processed hay diet (10.0% CP, 1.98 Mcal ME/kg DM) while the other two pens consumed a mixed ration consisting of 43.0% hay, 33.0% corn, 13.0% soybean hulls, and 11.0% liquid supplement, DM basis (11.7% CP, DM basis and 2.43 Mcal ME/kg DM). Following a 14-day adaptation period, feed intake was recorded for 45 days. Subsequently, diet type was switched and followed by 14 days of adaptation to the new diet and 45 days of feed intake measurement. Data were analyzed as a crossover study using the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS v9.4. Pearson correlation coefficients were determined between phenotypic traits and genomic score. Feed intake was highly correlated (r = 0.75) among the two diet types. In comparison, average daily gain (ADG) was negatively correlated (r = -0.37) among the two diet types. No differences were observed in DMI or performance for cows ranked “high” or “low” based on genomic score. More research is required to determine if selection for increased weight gain when consuming a high-quality mixed ration could be detrimental to cattle performance consuming moderate to low-quality forage.
Tamegrass Forage Options for Growing Heifers During the Summer
Authors: Farney Jaymelynn K , Reeb Macie E , Buessing Zachary T , Malone Katie
Published: May 2021

Developing methods to provide high quality forage through a majority of the year is important for cattle operations. The purpose of this study was to determine forage management options to off-set the summer “slump” with fescue. Four grass pasture treatments (10 pastures total; 1.67 ha each) were used in a completely randomized design and stocked with growing heifers (initial wt 190 ± 9.1 kg). Pasture treatments consisted of fescue (FES; n = 2 pastures with 4 head/pasture), crabgrass (CRAB; n = 3 pastures with 4 head/pasture), bermudagrass (BERM; n = 3 pastures with 5 head/pasture), and sorghum-sudan interseeded into fescue (SS-FES; n = 2 pastures with 6 head/pasture from April to July, then 4 head/pasture from July to November). Heifers were weighed in April, May, July, September, and November. Heifers assigned to FES/SS-FES pastures grazed from April to November (213 d) and for CRAB and BERM treatments, May through September (131 d). Heifers on FES grazed continuously, while other grass treatments were rotationally grazed. Heifers remained in treatment pasture through the entire grazing period. Data were analyzed using mixed procedures of SAS with pasture as experimental unit. Average daily gain for the entire grazing period was greater for heifers on SS-FES as compared to all other grass treatments (P = 0.001). Between April and May, FES heifers had greater ADG than SS-FES (P = 0.001); yet, heavier stocking rate in SS-FES resulted in similar BW gain/ha (P = 0.16). May to July ADG and BW gain/ha was greatest for BERM, then CRAB, with FES and SS-FES having the lowest gains (P < 0.001). From July through September, ADG was greater for SS-FES and CRAB as compared to FES, with BERM intermediate (P = 0.03); and BW gain/ha tended to be lower for FES compared to other treatments (P = 0.10). Average daily gain and BW gain/ha were greater for SS-FES than FES (P = 0.001) from late September to November. As a summer grazing option, warm season grass alternatives, either as the sole source of pasture or interseeded into fescue, are better options for gain as compared to fescue alone.
Economics and Feasibility of Legume Inclusion in Southeastern Perennial Grass-Based Systems
Authors: Mullenix Kim K , Tucker Jennifer J
Published: May 2021

Perennial grass pastures provide the basis for beef production systems across the Southeast United States. One common management practice that is widely recommended among agronomists is interseeding cool-season legumes. Legumes can serve as a complementary resource for filling in production gaps, reducing supplemental feedstuffs, reducing the need for nitrogen fertilization, increasing the nutritional quality of forage available, increase biomass production, improve animal performance, and can reduce the toxic effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue through dilution. A simulated economic analysis was developed to further the economic understanding of the cost of implementation, the subsequent animal and forage performance benefits, and net returns from the inclusion of legumes over many research trials and years. Data from 15 peer-reviewed papers was used to simulate the economic benefits of implementing this production practice. Cost of production and revenue for each paper were calculated using the 10-year average from 2010 to 2019. This analysis provides users with a further understanding of the net returns, critical breakeven areas, and return on investment that is necessary in order to successfully implement the inclusion of cool-season legumes in perennial grass-based systems.
Incorporating Alfalfa into Warm-season Grass Systems in the Southeast
Authors: Tucker Jennifer J
Published: May 2021

Bermudagrass is the primary warm season perennial forage crop grown in the Southeast (~20 million acres) for livestock and forage operations. While prominent in the region, bermudagrass requires large amounts of fertility and forage quality is moderate relative to other options. There has been great success and a growing interest in interseeding alfalfa into existing bermudagrass stands in the region. This combination eliminates the need for nitrogen fertilization, increases relative forage quality (RFQ) better meeting the nutritional needs of livestock, and decreases the need for supplemental feed. In recent years, research evaluations have been conducted across the Southeast to evaluate the use of alfalfa when incorporated into warm-season grass forage systems under various management strategies. Three projects conducted from 2016–2020 at the University of Georgia Tifton campus evaluated ‘Bulldog 805’ alfalfa interseeded into Tifton-85 bermudagrass (1) when harvested as baleage, (2) under grazing management and(3) in a clipping study to better define defoliation management recommendations. Overall findings from this work observed that alfalfa-bermudagrass mixtures provide greater seasonal herbage accumulation, extend the growing season by three to four months annually, and increase forage DM digestibility and CP compared to bermudagrass alone. Steers on ABG managed under rotational stocking had greater total gain/ha (~%33 increase) due to a higher stocking density throughout the growing season than a bermudagrass monoculture. Results indicate that interseeding alfalfa into bermudagrass is a viable option for southeastern forage systems and can be an effective way to improve forage quality, extend the grazing season, and reduce the need for additional supplementation when fed to livestock.
Influence of Season of Lambing on Gastrointestinal Nematode (GIN) Infection of Lambs
Authors: Burke Joan M , Miller James E , Wood Erin
Published: May 2021

The objective was to examine GIN infection and BW of lambs born in fall (Oct–Nov; n = 20–158/yr; n = 716 total) or winter (Jan–Feb; n = 65–208/yr; n = 1717 total). Katahdin lambs born between 2008 and 2020 were weaned between 90–120 d of age and supplemented with a 15% CP grain mix when forage quality was low. Dams were supplemented up to 30 d before to 60 d post-lambing. BW and FAMACHA scores were determined at approximately 60, 90, 120, and 150 d of age; FEC and PCV were determined at approximately 90, 120, and 150 d of age. Lambs were dewormed if FAMACHA score was > 3. Data were analyzed using mixed models with a repeated statement for day of sample collection, and age within season-yr used as a covariate. Season × yr × day influenced all traits (P < 0.001); litter number, sex, age of dam influenced BW (P < 0.001). FEC were higher in fall than winter born lambs only on d 90, and similar on d 120 and 150 (P < 0.001). PCV was lower in winter than fall born lambs on d 120 and 150 (P < 0.001), and FAMACHA lower on all days measured in fall than winter lambs (P < 0.001) making the winter born more susceptible to anemia with a greater need for deworming. Haemonchus contortus was the predominant GIN on most days of culture for both seasons. Fall compared with winter lambs were lighter in BW at all time points (P < 0.001) possibly due to poor forage quality available to dams. Rainfall data will be presented. GIN control was more manageable in fall than winter born lambs, but they weighed less.
Designing a High Enrollment Asynchronous Core Curriculum Science Course, General Animal Science for Declared Non-animal Science Majors
Authors: Frenzel Leslie , Paudyal Sushil , Dunlap Kathrin
Published: May 2021

General Animal Science is a core curriculum science class providing students with an overview of the livestock industry. This case study describes delivery of a high enrollment (n = 634) asynchronous core curriculum science class, General Animal Science, for non-animal science majors. The class progresses from basic agriculture nomenclature, to reproduction, nutrition, genetics, food safety, and concludes with growth and development of beef, sheep, horses, swine, dairy, poultry, and provides a brief description of the companion animal industry. Asynchronous design requires clear and repetitive communication, organized course content, and effective faculty and student engagement. Use of multiple platforms including a learning management system (Canvas), email, and video announcements is helpful for communication and a detailed schedule creates expectations for course progression, vital in an asynchronous course. While content was delivered primarily via lecture and supplementary materials, optional zoom sessions and virtual office hours generate additional engagement opportunities. Learning outcomes were assessed via weekly topic-focused formative student activities and quizzes vs conventional summative exams. Automated grading of assessments provided students with frequent, real-time feedback. In a post-course survey conducted among students enrolled in the Fall 2020 course (n = 634), 97.9% of respondents agreed that course participation was a valuable learning experience and the majority (50.5%) attributed it to lectures, 22% to assignments, 12.2% to group projects, 11.04% to supplementary materials, and 3.9% to optional office hours. Respondents indicated a mean score of 2.02 (SD 2.84) on a Likert scale (0–10) on likely to change their major to Animal Science. This was expected as Biomedical sciences, Agribusiness, Economics, Psychology, and Business were the most frequently declared majors. We concluded that structured schedule utilizing multiple methods of communication and formative assessments are valuable components of a large asynchronous core curriculum general animal science course, and that this course has potential to educate and engage non-animal science majors.
Equine in Vitro Digestibility Using Different Cecal Fluid Dilutions
Authors: Davis Cody , Carrell Russell C , Thompson Serena , Cole Madison , Dillard S Leanne L
Published: May 2021

In vitro digestibility (IVTD) is a useful tool for determining nutritive value of forages. The majority of equine forage digestion occurs in the cecum; however, many studies use fecal inoculum. The current study aimed to determine the optimal buffer:cecal fluid for batch culture fermentation and compare this method with fecal IVTD. Three horses were sourced from the Auburn University Veterinary School. Fecal material was collected via a rectal grab sample, placed in a plastic bag, and into a 39°C water bath. The cecal contents were collected using an abdominal incision within 5 min of termination. Contents were placed in a pre-warmed (39°C) thermos. Cecal fluid was strained and proportioned into 3 treatments (100:0, 75:25, and 50:50 cecal fluid:buffer). Fecal material was weighed and mixed with buffer to achieve a 10:90 by weight. Three samples of alfalfa, bermudagrass, and perennial peanut hay were randomly assigned to a fluid treatment and placed in the respective jar, digested for 48h, then underwent neutral detergent fiber analysis. The experiment was designed as a 4 × 3 factorial with horse considered random (n = 9). Statistical analysis was conducted using Proc Mixed (SAS Inst, Cary, NC) with α = 0.05. There was no effect of fluid treatment on IVTD (P = 0.12). However, a forage effect was observed (P < 0.001). Alfalfa and perennial peanut IVTD were not different (75.6%; P = 0.40), but greater (P < 0.001) than bermudagrass (48.1%). This study showed that no difference in cecal fluid and fecal material occurred when used as microbial inoculant sources for a Daisy-II batch fermentation for determination of equine IVTD.
Using Pressure Mapping to Optimize Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injury Prevention Strategies in the Burn Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Yesantharao Pooja S , El Eter Leen , Javia Vidhi , Werthman Emily , Cox Carrie , Keenan Julie , Moseley Rachel , Orosco Rowena , Cooney Carisa , Caffrey Julie
Published: May 2021

Although prior studies have demonstrated the utility of real-time pressure mapping devices in preventing pressure ulcers, there has been little investigation of their efficacy in burn intensive care unit (BICU) patients, who are at especially high risk for these hospital-acquired injuries. This study retrospectively reviewed clinical records of BICU patients to investigate the utility of pressure mapping data in determining the incidence, predictors, and associated costs of hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs). Of 122 patients, 57 (47%) were studied prior to implementation of pressure mapping and 65 (53%) were studied after implementation. The HAPI rate was 18% prior to implementation of pressure monitoring, which declined to 8% postimplementation (chi square: P = .10). HAPIs were less likely to be stage 3 or worse in the postimplementation cohort (P < .0001). On multivariable-adjusted regression accounting for known predictors of HAPIs in burn patients, having had at least 12 hours of sustained pressure loading in one area significantly increased odds of developing a pressure injury in that area (odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI 1.0–1.5, P = .04). Patients who developed HAPIs were significantly more likely to have had unsuccessful repositioning efforts in comparison to those who did not (P = .02). Finally, implementation of pressure mapping resulted in significant cost savings—$6750 (standard deviation: $1008) for HAPI-related care prior to implementation, vs $3800 (standard deviation: $923) after implementation, P = .008. In conclusion, the use of real-time pressure mapping decreased the morbidity and costs associated with HAPIs in BICU patients.
Exploring the Background, Context, and Stressors of Caregiving to Elderly Burned Patients: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Bayuo Jonathan , Aniteye Patience , Richter Solina , Agbenorku Pius
Published: May 2021

Elderly persons are at risk of experiencing burns and require support from both formal and informal caregivers. Informal caregiving in this situation has been minimally explored. Guided by the Stress Process Model, this study aimed at exploring the background, context, and stressors of informal caregivers of elderly burned persons during hospitalization. A qualitative descriptive design was utilized. Purposive sampling approach was used to recruit fourteen (14) informal caregivers who rendered care to elderly burned persons during hospitalization. Interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim following which directed content analysis was undertaken deductively. Three categories and six subcategories emerged which characterize the background, context, and stressors of informal caregiving to elderly burn patients. All the injuries occurred in the home setting and its sudden nature led to varied postburn emotional responses which characterized the context of burns caregiving. Primary stressors that emerged were related to the injury, actual caregiving demand, and concerns regarding increasing frailty levels. Secondary stressors identified were financial concerns and lifestyle changes. The findings suggest that the occurrence of burn injury served as a precursor to postburn stress response among informal caregivers. Increasing frailty levels, adequacy of household safety measures, and financial issues were key concerns which emphasize the need for psychosocial/transitional support, innovative healthcare financing measures, and continuing education on burns prevention in the home setting.
Improved efficacy of meglumine antimoniate incorporated in anionic liposomes against Leishmania infantum infecting canine macrophages
Authors: Ortega Vanessa , Radaic Allan , de Jesus Marcelo Bispo , de Paula Eneida , Giorgio Selma
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease and several drugs have been used in the treatment, including meglumine antimoniate (AME). The chemotherapy reaches clinical cure but does not eliminate parasites, contributing to drug resistance. To improve AME efficacy we incorporated it in anionic liposomes. The antiparasitic activity and intracellular localization were investigated in canine macrophages infected with Leishmania infantum.

Methods

Liposomes (L-AME) is composed of egg phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, palmitoyl oleoyl phosphatidyl serine and α-tocopherol (4 : 3 : 0.4 : 0.07 mol%) plus AME. L-AME size, polydispersity, zeta potential and morphology were analysed as well as antileishmanial activity and intracellular localization in DH82 macrophages.

Key findings

Liposomes (360 nm) zeta potential range from −40 to −65 mV, had 23% encapsulation efficiency and were stable for 180 days at 4°C. Free AME was cytotoxic towards L. infantum infected macrophages (ID50 = 0.012 M) while L-AME did not reduce cell viability. L-AME colocalized with parasites inside macrophages in a time-dependent manner, and reduced the percentage of infected cells and the number of intracellular parasites, decreasing the infection index (75–80%) twice as compared with AME treatment.

Conclusions

Liposomal AME is a promising delivery system for treating visceral leishmaniasis, improving meglumine efficacy against L. infantum and minimizing its cytotoxicity towards canine macrophages
Rice inter-subspecies hybridization can improve nitrogen use efficiency
Authors: Wang Xiue
Published: May 2021

This article comments on:

Sun Y, Wu Y, Wang YZ, Wang S, Wang X, Li G, Zhang X, Liang Z, Li J, Gong L, Wendel JF, Wang D, Liu B. 2021. Homoploid F1 hybrids and segmental allotetraploids of japonica and indica rice subspecies show similar and enhanced tolerance to nitrogen deficiency than parental lines. Journal of Experimental Botany 72, 5612–5624.
Increased sensitivity of a new commercial reverse transcriptase-quantitative PCR for the detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii in respiratory specimens
Authors: Dellière Sarah , Hamane Samia , Aissaoui Nesrine , Gits-Muselli Maud , Bretagne Stéphane , Alanio Alexandre
Published: May 2021

Optimal sensitivity to detect low Pneumocystis loads is of importance to take individual and collective measures to avoid evolution towards Pneumocystis pneumonia and outbreaks in immunocompromised patients. This study compares two qPCR procedures, a new automated RTqPCR using the GeneLEAD VIII extractor/thermocycler (GLVIII; ∼2.2 h workflow) and a previously validated in-house qPCR assays (IH; ∼5 h workflow) both targeting mtSSU and mtLSU for detecting P. jirovecii in 213 respiratory samples. GLVIII was found to be more sensitive than IH, detecting eight more specimens. Bland-Altman analysis between the two procedures showed a Cq bias of 1.17 ± 0.07 in favor of GLVIII.

Lay Summary

The fungus Pneumocystis needs to be detected early in respiratory samples to prevent pneumonia in immunocompromised hosts. We evaluated a new commercial RTqPCR on 213 respiratory samples to detect Pneumocystis and found it more sensitive and faster than our routine sensitive in-house qPCR assay.
Analysing the gamma-ray activity of neutrino emitter candidates: comparing TXS 0506+056 with other blazars
Authors: Marinelli Antonio , Sacahui J Rodrigo , Sharma Ankur , Osorio-Archila Mabel
Published: May 2021

On 2017 September 22, the IceCube collaboration sent an alert for an EHE (Extreme High Energy) event, corresponding to the reconstruction of a muonic neutrino (IC-170922A) with energy ∼290 TeV. A multiwavelength follow-up campaign associated this neutrino event with a gamma-ray flaring state of the BL Lac TXS 0506+056 located at z = 0.3365. From the same position of the sky, a muonic neutrino excess is observed in a time window of 110 d around 2014 December 13. These observations together suggest TXS 0506+056 as a possible neutrino emitter. We report here a long-term gamma-ray monitoring of this source and we compare it with other blazars spatially correlated with astrophysical muonic neutrino events observed by IceCube. We characterize the most significant gamma-ray flares of the blazars in the sample and introduce the blazar duty cycle as an important parameter to be considered when assessing a possible neutrino counterpart. For the selected blazars, we show the expected neutrino flux variability with different time binning assuming the gamma-rays observed by Fermi-LAT as a product of a leptohadronic emission scenario. The neutrino expectations from the blazar sample are then compared with the IceCube discovery flux searching for the optimal time bin in a multimessenger context. This analysis indicates that the detection of a single flare represents a challenge for a single cubic kilometre detector, underlining the importance of increasing the size of current neutrino telescopes and obtaining a good monitoring of the entire sky through a global neutrino network.
Optical counterparts of ULXs in two dwarf galaxies: NGC 4861 and NGC 4449
Authors: Ela M Ozdogan , Akyuz A , Aksaker N , Avdan S , Oralhan I Akkaya , Vinokurov A , Allak S , Solovyeva Y , Atapin K , Bizyaev D
Published: May 2021

We present the results of a search for optical candidates of ultraluminous X-ray sources (ULXs) in two dwarf galaxies, NGC 4861 and NGC 4449, using Hubble Space Telescope (HST) archival data. With precise astrometry, we confirm that NGC 4861 X1 is associated with an H ii complex and we conclude that NGC 4861 X2 resides in a young star group of mass 400 ± 80 M⊙. We also find that NGC 4449 X7 is associated with three optical candidates within an error radius of 0.2 arcsec at the 90 ${{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ confidence level. Absolute magnitudes (Mv) of these candidates are determined as −5.0 and −4.1. The age and mass values for the three candidates are estimated as 40–50 Myr and ∼8 M⊙, respectively, using stellar evolutionary tracks. The locations of optical candidates suggest a possible association with a nearby group of stars. In addition, we analysed previously unused archival data of XMM–Newton, Chandra, and Swift where the sources were detected. Although the X-ray spectral data do not allow us to discriminate between physical models, long-term data at hand are consistent with the sources being in luminous hard states.
The Pristine Inner Galaxy Survey (PIGS) III: carbon-enhanced metal-poor stars in the bulge
Authors: Arentsen Anke , Starkenburg Else , Aguado David S , Martin Nicolas F , Placco Vinicius M , Carlberg Raymond , González Hernández Jonay I , Hill Vanessa , Jablonka Pascale , Kordopatis Georges , Lardo Carmela , Mashonkina Lyudmila I , Navarro Julio F , Venn Kim A , Buder Sven , Lewis Geraint F , Wan Zhen , Zucker Daniel B
Published: May 2021

The most metal-deficient stars hold important clues about the early buildup and chemical evolution of the Milky Way, and carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) stars are of special interest. However, little is known about CEMP stars in the Galactic bulge. In this paper, we use the large spectroscopic sample of metal-poor stars from the Pristine Inner Galaxy Survey (PIGS) to identify CEMP stars ($\rm {[C/Fe]} \geqslant +0.7$) in the bulge region and to derive a CEMP fraction. We identify 96 new CEMP stars in the inner Galaxy, of which 62 are very metal-poor ($\rm {[Fe/H]} \lt -2.0$); this is more than a 10-fold increase compared to the seven previously known bulge CEMP stars. The cumulative fraction of CEMP stars in PIGS is $42^{\, +14\, }_{\, -13} {{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ for stars with $\rm {[Fe/H]} \lt -3.0$, and decreases to $16^{\, +3\, }_{\, -3} {{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ for $\rm {[Fe/H]} \lt -2.5$ and $5.7^{\, +0.6\, }_{\, -0.5} {{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ for $\rm {[Fe/H]} \lt -2.0$. The PIGS inner Galaxy CEMP fraction for $\rm {[Fe/H]} \lt -3.0$ is consistent with the halo fraction found in the literature, but at higher metallicities, the PIGS fraction is substantially lower. While this can partly be attributed to a photometric selection bias, such bias is unlikely to fully explain the low CEMP fraction at higher metallicities. Considering the typical carbon excesses and metallicity ranges for halo CEMP-s and CEMP-no stars, our results point to a possible deficiency of both CEMP-s and CEMP-no stars (especially the more metal-rich) in the inner Galaxy. The former is potentially related to a difference in the binary fraction, whereas the latter may be the result of a fast chemical enrichment in the early building blocks of the inner Galaxy.
The Gaia-ESO survey: a lithium depletion boundary age for NGC 2232
Authors: Binks A S , Jeffries R D , Jackson R J , Franciosini E , Sacco G G , Bayo A , Magrini L , Randich S , Arancibia-Silva J , Bergemann M , Bragaglia A , Gilmore G , Gonneau A , Hourihane A , Jofré P , Korn A J , Morbidelli L , Prisinzano L , Worley C C , Zaggia S
Published: May 2021

Astrometry and photometry from Gaia and spectroscopic data from the Gaia-ESO Survey (GES) are used to identify the lithium depletion boundary (LDB) in the young cluster NGC 2232. A specialized spectral line analysis procedure was used to recover the signature of undepleted lithium in very low luminosity cluster members. An age of 38 ± 3 Myr is inferred by comparing the LDB location in absolute colour−magnitude diagrams (CMDs) with the predictions of standard models. This is more than twice the age derived from fitting isochrones to low-mass stars in the CMD with the same models. Much closer agreement between LDB and CMD ages is obtained from models that incorporate magnetically suppressed convection or flux-blocking by dark, magnetic starspots. The best agreement is found at ages of 45−50 Myr for models with high levels of magnetic activity and starspot coverage fractions >50 per cent, although a uniformly high spot coverage does not match the CMD well across the full luminosity range considered.
Spatially and size-resolved analysis of gold nanoparticles in rat spleen after intratracheal instillation by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry
Authors: Nordhorn Ilona D , Dietrich Dörthe , Verlemann Christine , Vennemann Antje , Schmid Robin , Elinkmann Matthias , Fuchs Joshua , Sperling Michael , Wiemann Martin , Karst Uwe
Published: May 2021

In a dual approach, laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry was applied to investigate spleen samples of rats after intratracheal instillation of polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated gold nanoparticles. First, spatially resolved imaging analysis was deployed to investigate gold translocation from the lungs to the spleen and to investigate the distribution pattern of gold in the spleen parenchyma itself. Using the same instrumental setup, laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry in single particle mode was applied to determine the species of translocated gold. Single particle analysis allows the determination of particle size distributions and therefore to distinguish between ionic species, intact nanoparticles, and agglomerates. A translocation of instilled gold from the lungs to the spleen was demonstrated for gold nanoparticles of 30 and 50 nm diameter. Furthermore single particle analysis revealed the translocation of intact gold nanoparticles in a non-agglomerated state.
Plasma metabolite indices are robust to extrinsic variation and useful indicators of foraging habitat quality in Lesser Scaup
Authors: Smith Eric J , Anteau Michael J , Hagy Heath M , Jacques Christopher N
Published: May 2021

Energy acquisition and storage are important for survival and fecundity of birds during resource-limited periods such as spring migration. Plasma-lipid metabolites (i.e. triglyceride [TRIG], β-hydroxybutyrate [BOHB]) have been used to index changes in lipid stores and, thus, have utility for assessing foraging habitat quality during migration. However, such an index may be affected by energetic maintenance costs, diet, and other factors, and further validation under experimental conditions is needed to understand potential sources of variation and verify existing indices. We evaluated a plasma-lipid metabolite index using 30 female and 28 male wild Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis; hereafter scaup) held in short-term captivity (~24 hr) during spring migration. Similar to previous observational studies, BOHB was negatively associated and TRIG was positively associated with mass change (R2 = 0.68). BOHB estimates were nearly identical to those published on free-living scaup, but TRIG estimates differed from free-living scaup and varied by sex, with females having a greater rate of predicted mass change than captive and free-living males. Our results suggest TRIG may be a better measure of energy income than deposition because lipid deposition likely varies with energetic maintenance costs, stress, and underlying physiological processes while TRIG relates primarily to energy income. In contrast, BOHB was a reliable predictor of negative mass change across sexes. The sex-based differences in apparent lipid deposition rates warrant further research before a generalizable model is advisable for comparing mass change predictions across studies. However, if predictions are standardized, this technique is generally robust to variations in energy income vs. lipid deposition across sexes. Accordingly, our evaluation provides verification for the utility of plasma-lipid metabolites as an indicator of foraging habitat quality during migration.
The effect of sleep–wake intraindividual variability in digital cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia: a mediation analysis of a large-scale RCT
Authors: Vestergaard Cecilie L , Vedaa Øystein , Simpson Melanie R , Faaland Patrick , Vethe Daniel , Kjørstad Kaia , Langsrud Knut , Ritterband Lee M , Sivertsen Børge , Stiles Tore C , Scott Jan , Kallestad Håvard
Published: May 2021

Study Objectives

Digital cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (dCBT-I) is an effective treatment for insomnia. However, less is known about mediators of its benefits. The aim of the present study was to test if intraindividual variability in sleep (IIV) was reduced with dCBT-I, and whether any identified reduction was a mediator of dCBT-I on insomnia severity and psychological distress.

Methods

In a two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT), 1720 adults with insomnia (dCBT-I = 867; patient education about sleep = 853) completed the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and sleep diaries, at baseline and 9-week follow-up. Changes in IIV were analyzed using linear mixed modeling followed by mediation analyses of ISI, HADS, and IIV in singular sleep metrics and composite measures (behavioral indices (BI-Z) and sleep disturbance indices (SI-Z)).

Results

dCBT-I was associated with reduced IIV across all singular sleep metrics, with the largest between-group effect sizes observed for sleep onset latency (SOL). Reduced IIV for SOL and wake after sleep onset had the overall greatest singular mediating effect. For composite measures, SI-Z mediated change in ISI (b = −0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) −1.04 to −0.52; 13.3%) and HADS (b = −0.40; 95% CI −0.73 to −0.18; 29.2%), while BI-Z mediated minor changes.

Conclusion

Reductions in IIV in key sleep metrics mediate significant changes in insomnia severity and especially psychological distress when using dCBT-I. These findings offer important evidence regarding the therapeutic action of dCBT-I and may guide the future development of this intervention.

Clinical trials

Name: Overcoming Insomnia: Impact on Sleep, Health and Work of Online CBT-I

Registration number: NCT02558647

URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02558647?cond=NCT02558647&draw=2&rank=1
Face mask wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic: comparing perceptions in China and three European countries
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Knobel Phil
Published: May 2021

Face mask recommendations are conflicting across the world during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. While universal face mask wearing is a useful non-pharmaceutical preventive strategy, little is known about the perception of mask wearing during a pandemic. This study aimed to examine people’s face mask use in China and Europe. An online survey was conducted among residents in China, Austria, Germany, and Switzerland from the 1st to 10th of April 2020. With a convenience sampling approach, 655 valid answers were received including 267 Chinese and 388 European residents (261 from Austria, 101 from Germany, 26 from Switzerland). Self-reported face mask wearing status and related perceptions were assessed. Compared with the Europeans, Chinese participants showed a stronger pro-masking tendency. Subjective norm was an important predictor of face mask wearing in public. Wearing of face masks in the Chinese sample was also associated with risk perception as well as obedience to advice from local health authority. Discrepancies in face mask wearing suggest that targeted measures to promote face mask wearing are needed in Europe. Globally coordinated guidelines on pandemics are also warranted to face the next waves of COVID-19 and other infectious respiratory diseases.