bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSI-12 Effects of increasing rumen propionate on dry matter intake, feeding behavior, glucose clearance, and insulin response in cattle on a finishing ration
Authors: Rathert Abigail R , McConnell Hunter L , Salisbury Carlee M , Uzee Nick , Montgomery Dagan , Foote Andrew P
Published: October 2021

The objective of this experiment was to determine if increasing propionate alters dry matter intake (DMI), feeding behavior, glucose clearance rate, blood metabolites, insulin concentrations, and rumen fluid lactate in steers fed a finishing diet. Ruminally cannulated Holstein steers (n = 6) were fed a finishing diet ad libitum. Steers were randomly assigned to one of three treatments in a 3×6 Latin rectangle design. Treatments of no Ca propionate (CON), 100 g/d (LOW), or 300 g/d (HIGH) were ruminally dosed daily. Individual DMI was measured using an Insentec feeding system. Weekly blood samples and body weight were collected on d 0, 7, and 14 and analyzed for glucose, lactate, NEFA, and insulin. A glucose tolerance test was conducted on d 14 of each period. Data were analyzed using a mixed model with period, treatment, time, and their interaction included, with time within period as a repeated measure, and steer as a random effect. Dry matter intake, meal size, and number of meals per day were decreased (P < 0.049) in HIGH steers. Weekly plasma glucose tended (P = 0.07) to be greater on d 7 than d 0. Plasma insulin was lower (P = 0.019) in both LOW and HIGH than CON steers. Rumen fluid lactate was decreased (P = 0.034) in HIGH steers. There was an effect of time (P < 0.0001) on rumen fluid lactate and pH, with an increase from 0 h to 6 h. There was no treatment effect (P ≥ 0.11) on weekly plasma glucose, NEFA, or lactate, rumen fluid pH, or glucose peak concentration, plateau, and rate. These data indicate that increased propionate may decrease DMI and alter feeding behavior but might not be related to glucose metabolism.
PSI-6 Characterization of in vitro stability for two multi-functional processive endoglucanases as exogenous biocatalysts in pig nutrition
Authors: Cheng Laurence , Wang Weijun , Fan Ming Z Z
Published: October 2021

Poor efficiency of dietary fibre utilization limits global pork production profit margins and mitigation of footprint on environment. The objective of this study was to characterize in vitro stability for two unique processive endoglucanases of tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A that are reported to hydrolyze natural cellulose and have multi-functionality towards hemicelluloses (Basit and Akhtar, Biotechnology and Bioengineering, 2018, 115:1675; Wang et al., Scientific Reports 2019, 9:13630). Both tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A were modelled with the SWISS-MODEL online server and analyzed and visualized by PyMOL2.4.1. These two cellulases were overexpressed in ClearColi®BL21(DE3). Their endoglucanase activities were determined using 0.70 % sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and 5 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) with or without N2 gas purging; and incubated at pH 6.5–7.0 and 37 °C for 15 min. The three-dimensional models showed 1 and 4 Cys residues on the surfaces of tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A, respectively, suggesting their susceptibility to auto-oxidation by air-borne O2. This prediction was tested by comparing the activities of N2-purged and non-purged enzyme preparations as well as their processing and incubation handling. Both tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A activities were enhanced (P < 0.01) by 50% when 5-mM DTT and N2-purging were adopted. Furthermore, after incubating both tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A enzyme preparations under the porcine gastric pH (3.5) and pepsin (274 U/mL) as well as intestinal trypsin (78 U/mL) and chymotrypsin (20 U/mL) activities at pH 6.5 during 0–5 h, Eadie-Hofstee inhibition kinetic analyses showed that tCel5A1 and p4818Cel5_2A respectively lost 18 and 68% (P < 0.01) of their initial activities after 2 h under the gastric conditions and more than 90% (P < 0.01) of their initial activities after 2–3 h under the intestinal conditions. Therefore, further enzyme protein engineering and/or post-fermentation treatments, such as coating for by-passing the gastric-intestinal environment, will be required to enable these two processive endoglucanases as efficacious exogenous fibre enzymes.
PSI-8 Determining the effect of dam milk production and mastitis infection during pregnancy on blood biochemistry in dairy bull calves
Authors: Ricks Elisabeth , Lally Jordan , Barney Amanda , Hoffman Maria L , Gatley Rachael
Published: October 2021

Maternal programming can affect offspring health postnatally. We hypothesized that high milk production and/or mastitis infection during pregnancy will adversely affect calf blood biochemical analytes. Holstein bull calves (n = 45) were transported to the University of Rhode Island within 24 hrs of birth. Calves were classified by dam production and somatic cell counts (SCC) during pregnancy; HI (top 25% for herd M305, n = 7), MOD (lower 60% for herd M305, n = 16), HIMAST (HI with SCC ≥ 200,000 cells/mL; n = 15), and MODMAST (MOD with high SCC; n=6). Calves were sampled once a week for 8 wks. Serum was sent to the Missouri State Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (Columbia, MO) for analyses. Results were analyzed in SAS using proc mixed. At wk 1, Calcium (Ca) concentrations were greater in HI calves (11±0.61mg/dL; P =.05) than MOD calves (10± 0.25mg/dL). At wk 3, Ca concentrations were greater in HIMAST (10± 0.13mg/dL) compared to HI (8±.048mg/dL; P<0.01) and MOD (9±0.36mg/dL; P =.02) calves respectively. MODMAST calves (10 ± 0.460 mg/dL) exhibited greater Ca concentrations than HI calves (P = 0.05). Aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were greater in HIMAST calves compared to MODMAST calves at wk 1 (36±2.49 Units (U)/L vs. 27±2.63U/L; P = .04) and wk 8 (79±7.08U/L vs. 47±5.71U/L; P<0.01). At wk 8, total protein concentrations were greater in HIMAST (6 ± .13g/dL) calves compared to MODMAST(5±0.13g/dL; P =.01) and MOD calves(5±.13g/dL; P = .03). In conclusion, maternal mastitis infection and production level during pregnancy does affect key circulating factors in the offspring. Correlation and gene expression analyses will be performed to better understand these changes.
PSIII-4 Nutritional evaluation of yeast biomass from candida utilis as a protein source in cat diets
Authors: Holt Dalton A , Aldrich Charles G
Published: October 2021

Yeast products have found much favor within companion animal nutrition. A recently developed proprietary process has introduced an enhanced yeast biomass from Candida utilis (merchandised as SylPro®) into the animal food marketplace. Candida utilis has been shown to be a valuable protein in canine, swine and aquaculture diets; however, no previous research has evaluated its use in feline diets. Therefore, the current objective was to determine the nutrient digestibility of diets containing SylPro® yeast biomass (SYL) as the primary protein source relative to soybean meal (SOY), pea protein concentrate (PEA), and chicken meal (CKN) fed to cats. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of diets were estimated using Titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. The DM ATTD for SYL was lower (P < 0.0001) than CKN (86.39 vs. 87.43%, respectively) but similar to both SOY (85.66%) and PEA (86.54%). The OM ATTD of SYL, SOY, and PEA were not different (P < 0.0001) and were each lower than CKN (average of 89.60 vs. 91.16%, respectively). The CP ATTD for SYL (89.9%) was not different from the other three treatments (P = 0.0200). Crude fat ATTD of SYL was lower (92.52%; P < 0.0001) than all treatments with PEA being greatest (94.82%) and CKN and SOY intermediate (average of 93.84%). The SYL and CKN had higher TDF ATTD (average of 66.20%; P < 0.0001) relative to PEA and SOY (average of 49.79%). The GE ATTD of SYL was lower than CKN (90.18 vs. 90.97%, respectively; P = 0.0154) but similar to both SOY (90.18%) and PEA (90.30%). In conclusion, all diets were highly digestible but CKN preformed the best. The SYL diet was similar to CKN for ATTD of CP and TDF. The SYL diet was also similar to both SOY and PEA for ATTD of DM, OM, CP and GE.
PSIII-25 The effects of varying levels of trace mineral supplementation on mineral balance and antibody concentrations in feedlot cattle
Authors: Lippy Brittany A , Wilson Blake K , Robison Colton A
Published: October 2021

Trace mineral (TM) supplementation is critical for optimal performance and health. The objective was to determine the effects of varying levels of TM supplementation on feedlot cattle TM status and antibody concentrations. Angus steers (n = 240; BW = 291 kg ± 27.4) were stratified by arrival BW and source and assigned to 1 of 4 treatments (12 pens/treatment; 5 steers/pen). Treatments included a negative control (CON) in which cattle received no TM supplementation, a requirement treatment (1X) in which cattle received added TM at 2016 Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cattle required levels, a 2 times requirements (2X), and a 4 times requirements (4X) treatment. Selenium was included at 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mg/kg for 1X, 2X, and 4X respectively. Treatments were chosen based on reported TM supplementation levels from the 2015 Feedlot Consulting Nutritionist Survey. One steer was chosen at random from each pen to be evaluated for serum and liver TM status and antibody concentrations to respiratory viruses. There was treatment × day interaction for serum Co, and liver Cu and Se (P < 0.0001). Serum Co was greatest for the 4X treatment from d 28 through harvest. Liver Cu was greatest for the 2X and 4X treatments from d 56 through harvest. Liver Se was greatest for 2X and 4X from d 28 through harvest. There was an effect of day on liver Co, Fe, Mn, Mo, and Zn (P < 0.0001) and serum Cu, Mn, Mo, Se, and Zn (P < 0.0019). Concentrations for individual TM had different trends over time, however, all reported values were within normal ranges. Serum Zn was greater at harvest (P = .02). There was an effect of time on Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Type 1A, Bovine Herpesvirus Type 1, Bovine Parainfluenza 3 virus antibody titer concentrations (P < 0.0001).
PSIII-16 Use of soybean hulls in diets for drylot beef cows
Authors: Moore Rebecca L , Pickinpaugh Wayde J , Caton Joel , Neville Bryan W
Published: October 2021

One-hundred twenty-one Red Angus beef cows were used to evaluate the effects of soybean hull inclusion in beef cow diets throughout gestation and lactation. Cows were stratified by age, body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS), and were randomly assigned to treatment (n = 4 pens per treatment). Treatments included 1) control diet [CON; consisted of corn silage, modified distillers’ grains plus solubles (MDGS), and wheat straw], and 2) soybean hull diet [SBH; consisted of 26 to 27% soybean hulls (DM basis) replacing portions of corn silage, MDGS, and wheat straw]. Beef cow BW, BCS, average daily gain (ADG), and back fat (BF) measurements were evaluated. Colostrum samples were collected on a subset of randomly selected cows from each pen. Weigh-suckle-weigh technique was used to evaluate milk production. Calf birth weight, weaning weight, and ADG were evaluated. At weaning, calves were ultrasounded for BF, rump fat, and ribeye area. Dam BW, BCS, BF, and ADG were not affected (P ≥ 0.12) by treatment. Colostrum fat, somatic cell count, urea nitrogen, and other solids were not altered (P ≥ 0.13) by treatment; however, colostrum protein was greater (P ≥ 0.09) in CON cows. Milk production at d 60 was greater (P = 0.03) for SBH fed cows. Calf birth and weaning weights were unaffected by treatment (P = 0.30). Ribeye area measurements were greater (P = 0.05) in SBH calves (14.6 vs. 13.7 ± 0.76 cm2), but BF and rump fat were not different (P ≥ 0.58). The present study demonstrates that soybean hulls can be included in beef cow diets at 26 to 27 % of dietary DM. Our data and previous research indicate that soybean hulls can be fed to drylot beef cows during gestation and lactation without negative impacts on cow or calf outcomes.
PSIII-15 The interactions of change in nutrition after artificial insemination on plasma metabolites, steroid hormones, and uterine histotroph in beef heifers
Authors: Andrews Taylor , Walker Julie , Epperson Kaitlin M , Rich Jerica J , Kline Adalaide C , Quail Lacey , McCoski Sarah , Sanford Carla , Zezeski Abigail L , Geary Tom W , Perry George A
Published: October 2021

The objective was to evaluate the impact of nutritional changes after artificial insemination (AI) on plasma metabolites, steroid hormones, and uterine histotroph. Beef heifers (n = 50) were randomly assigned to a post-AI dietary treatment (High=161.5% or Low=77.45% of maintenance energy) until uteri were flushed for embryo recovery (d14). Blood samples were collected on d -3, 0 (AI), 3, 6, 9, 12, and 14 for analysis of plasma non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), total protein (protein), glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations. Uterine flushes (UF) were analyzed for concentrations of Mg, P, S, K, Ca, Cu, Zn, Se, Mn, Co, B, Cr, and Fe. Plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations were analyzed as repeated measures in SAS (PROC MIXED). Mineral concentrations in UF were analyzed using the MIXED procedures in SAS. Diet influenced plasma NEFA concentrations, with Low heifers having elevated concentrations (P < 0.01); however, diet did not influence plasma protein, glucose, cholesterol, or progesterone concentrations (P > 0.10). Plasma NEFA, glucose, and progesterone concentrations changed over time (P < 0.05), but protein and cholesterol did not differ over time (P > 0.10). Diet by time interactions influenced plasma NEFA, protein, and cholesterol concentrations (P < 0.05), but glucose and progesterone concentrations were not different (P > 0.10). Presence of a recovered embryo by time interaction influenced plasma protein concentrations (P < 0.04), but NEFA, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations were not affected by the interaction (P > 0.10). Embryo recovery and diet by embryo recovery by time did not impact plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol and progesterone concentrations (P > 0.10). When an embryo was recovered, Mg (P = 0.02) and S (P = 0.02) were decreased in UF. Diet and diet by embryo recovery did not affect UF mineral concentrations (P>0.10). In conclusion, post-AI nutrition influenced plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations. Additionally, uterine histotroph mineral concentrations were affected by presence of an embryo.
PSIV-12 Effects of feeding a novel alfalfa leaf pellet product (ProLEAF MAX™) and alfalfa stems (ProFiber Plus™) on production of lactating dairy cows
Authors: Smith Laura A , Young Allen Y , Pratt Chris , Thornton Kara J
Published: October 2021

Alfalfa is a commonly grown forage in the Intermountain west and is often included in lactating dairy cow rations. This study investigated the effects of including novel alfalfa products: ProLEAF MAX™ (PLM), an alfalfa leaf pellet; and ProFiber Plus™ (PFP), alfalfa stems, in the diet of lactating dairy cows on dry matter intake, milk yield, and milk components. Holstein cows were housed in a freestall barn and milked in a free-flow automatic milking system. All cows were fed each treatment for 21-days, then switched to the next treatment utilizing a crossover experimental design. The five treatments were: control (CON, typical diet including alfalfa hay; n = 65); low-quality alfalfa hay (LQ+PLM, a diet that replaced alfalfa hay with low-quality alfalfa hay and PLM; n = 62); PLM+PFP (a diet that replaced alfalfa hay with PLM and PFP; n = 65); PLM (a diet that replaced alfalfa hay with PLM; n = 62); and PFP (a diet that replaced alfalfa hay with PFP; n = 60). Cows were group fed a partial mixed ration balanced for 40.8 kg milk, 3.9% milk fat and 3.3% milk protein. Individual milk yield and milk components were recorded daily by the automatic milking system. Dry matter intake was also recorded daily. When fed the PFP diet, cows had decreased (P < 0.01) dry matter intake compared to the other diets. Milk yield was increased (P < 0.01) when cows received the PLM diet when compared to the other diets. When fed the PFP and PLM+PFP diets, milk fat was increased (P < 0.01) when compared to the other diets. Milk protein was decreased (P < 0.01) when cows were fed the PFP diet when compared to the other diets. These data indicate that inclusion of fractionated alfalfa products in the diet of lactating dairy cows has the potential to increase milk yield and milk components.
PSIV-17 Impacts of high forage crude protein concentrations on the equine fecal microbiome
Authors: Weinert Jennifer R , Biddle Amy S , Williams Carey A
Published: October 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of forage crude protein (CP) concentrations on the equine fecal microbiome. Six mares were assigned to either a high-protein (HP; 24% CP) or normal-protein (NP; 15% CP) hay cube diet in a randomized cross-over design. Fecal samples were collected on the last day of each 35-d period. Branched-chain and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) were measured by GC-MS; data were analyzed by mixed model ANOVA in R. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was conducted in Qiime2. Alpha and beta diversity were assessed by Kruskall-Wallis Tests and PERMANOVA. Taxonomy was assigned using SILVA. Metacyc pathways were predicted with PICRUSt2. Differential genus-level and pathway abundances were analyzed by LefSe (LDA >2.0). Significance was set at p≤0.05. Species richness did not differ by diet, but evenness was greater in NP vs. HP. Beta diversity metrics including Weighted UniFrac also differed by diet. Genera including Methanocorpusculum, Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, and Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group were more abundant in HP. Treponema and Fibrobacters were more abundant in NP. Twenty pathways related to amino acid synthesis were identified as markers of NP, while 10 pathways related to amino acid degradation and SCFA synthesis were markers of HP. Pathway predictions were supported by metabolite analyses, with acetate (HP: 751; LP: 632 ± 49 ug/g), propionate (HP: 565; NP: 421 ± 43 ug/g), butyrate (HP: 341; LP: 210 ± 34 ug/g), and valerate (HP: 80; NP: 42 ± 11 ug/g) greater in HP than NP. Isobutyrate (HP: 108; NP: 94 ± 7 ug/g; P = 0.09), and isovalerate (HP: 91; NP: 48 ± 10 ug/g) were also greater in HP. These results demonstrate that consuming higher-CP forages impacts equine hindgut microbiota structure and function, leading to increased rates of protein fermentation. Further research is needed to determine physiological significance in forage-fed horses.
PSIV-5 Definition of environmental variables and critical periods to evaluate heat tolerance in maternal-line pigs based on single-step genomic reaction norms
Authors: Freitas Pedro Henrique F , Johnson Jay S , Chen Shi-Yi , Lázaro Sirlene F , Huang Yijian , Gu Youping , Schinckel Allan P , Tiezzi Francesco , Brito Luiz F
Published: October 2021

Heat stress (HS) is a major welfare and economic issue in the swine industry. However, it is not a trivial task to appropriately quantify the environmental HS. Therefore, this study aimed to 1) define the critical periods and environmental descriptors (based on public weather station information) to evaluate heat tolerance (HT); and 2) estimate genetic parameters for HT in Large White pigs. The traits included in this study were: weaning weight (WW; kg), off-test weight (OTW; kg), total number of piglets born (TNB), number of piglets born alive (NBA), and number of piglets weaned (WN). The number of phenotypic records ranged from 6,059 (WN) to 172,984 (TNB), and genotypes were available for 8,686 animals. Seven climatic variables (maximum, minimum and average temperatures, average relative humidity, dew point, discomfort index and temperature-humidity index) based on public weather station records were compared based on three criteria [GxE estimate as measured by the slope term; theoretical accuracy of the genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV); deviation of GEBV per environmental value]. Relative humidity (for WN and WW) and maximum temperature (for OTW, TNB, and NBA) are the recommended environmental gradients for the studied traits. The acute HS (average of 30 days before measurement date) was the critical period recommended for OTW. For WN and WW, a period of 34 days prior to farrowing up to weaning is recommended. For TNB and NBA, the critical period of 20 days prior breeding to 30 days into gestation is recommended. In general, WN and WW were largely affected by the environment, while the remaining traits showed moderate correlations (OTW, TNB, and NBA). Heritabilities estimated for HT ranged from 0.08 (WW) to 0.25 (OTW). In summary, these results suggest that there is genotype-by-environment interaction for all traits analyzed, and genetic progress can be achieved through genetic selection.
PSIV-4 Characterization of heat stress condition on productive performance and physiological indicators, milk composition, gene expression, and metabolomics in blood and milk of early lactating Holstein cows
Authors: Jo JangHoon , Nejad Jalil Ghassemi , Kim WonSeob , Kim Hyeran , Kim SnagHo , Lee HongGu
Published: October 2021

We aimed to characterize heat stress (HS) effects in early lactating Holstein cows using measures of productive performance, physiological and genetic indicators, blood and milk parameters, and metabolomics in blood and milk. Eight cows (milk yield = 29.27 ± 0.38 kg/d, days in milk = 40 ± 8 d) were equally housed in environmentally controlled chambers by providing temperature-humidity index (THI) at two levels of 70~71 (25°C, 35~50% humidity, threshold) and 86~87 (31°C, 80~95% humidity, severe). For each treatment, the environment inside the chamber was adjusted for 7 days of adaptation at 67~68 THI (22°C, 50~60% humidity, normal) level. After the adjustment period, cows were subjected to HS for 7 days. Feed and water intake and milk yield were measured daily, and blood was collected and physiological indicators were monitored on the 7th and 14th days. Data were analyzed using GLM procedure of SAS. Feed intake and milk yield were lower (P< 0.05) and water intake was higher (P < 0.05) in the severe than the threshold and normal. Lactose tended to be lower (P = 0.082) in the severe than the threshold and normal. Heart rate, rectal and skin temperature were higher (P < 0.05) in the severe than the threshold and normal. Blood HSP90 and HSPB1 were higher (P < 0.05) in the severe than threshold and normal. Alanine, proline, glutamic acid, tryptophan, lactic acid, and citric acid in milk and blood were lower (P < 0.05) in the severe than threshold and normal. In conclusion, early lactating Holstein cows are characterized to receive higher HS by showing the changes in historical measures of productive performance, physiological and genetic indicators, and blood and milk parameters under severe HS condition whereas the new approach of metabolomics in blood and milk are recognized as sensitive and reliable indicators of severe HS.
PSIV-7 Effect of maternal infection and dietary supplementation of isoflavones on offspring postnatal immune function
Authors: Bryan Erin
Published: October 2021

The objective was to determine the effect of maternal infection and dietary supplementation of isoflavones during gestation on offspring immune function. First parity gilts (n = 24) at gestational day (GD) 65 were allotted to one of three treatments: uninfected and fed a diet devoid of isoflavones (CON), infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and fed the control diet (POS), or infected with PRRSV and fed a diet supplemented with 1,500 ppm soy isoflavones (ISF). Gilts were inoculated intranasally with saline or 2.5×104 TCID50/mL of suspended live PRRSV (NADC20 strain) on GD 70. At farrowing, 4 offspring pigs weighing closest to the litter average were selected for postnatal immune challenges. Innate immunity was determined by serum TNF-α concentrations after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection (5 µg/kg BW) on postnatal d (PND) 52. Adaptive immunity was determined in the same pigs by peripheral T cell population shifts following vaccination against porcine circovirus-2 on PND 59. Whole blood was collected on days post-vaccination (DPV) 0, 7, and 14 for T cell phenotyping. In the innate immune challenge, all groups experienced increased TNF-α after LPS injection with peak response at 4 h, with ISF eliciting higher (P = 0.04) TNF-α concentrations than CON, and POS being intermediate. Also, ISF had higher (P < 0.01) TNF-α concentrations at both 0- and 8-h post-challenge compared with CON and POS. Prior to vaccination, ISF had elevated memory T cells and reduced total and naïve T cells (P ≤ 0.02). At DPV 14, the reduced total and naïve T cells persisted in ISF pigs. Overall, these data indicate that maternal PRRSV infection alone does not predispose pigs to an exaggerated immune response. However, maternal isoflavone supplementation during PRRSV infection altered offspring innate and adaptive immune responses.
PSIV-16 Genome-wide association study of Rambouillet rams with angular limb deformities
Authors: Becker Gabrielle M , Stegemiller Morgan R , Schauer Christopher S S , Stewart Whit C C , Murdoch Brenda M
Published: October 2021

Lameness and limb deformities can be detrimental to range and breeding sheep. Growing animals are at an increased risk of angular limb deformities (ALD) and lameness, which adversely affects their mobility, breeding soundness and ultimately longevity. Ram testing allows developing ram lambs from different farms to be evaluated together under a consistent nutritive and environment management system. The aim of this study is to investigate rams from four ram test cohorts (North Dakota State University and University of Wyoming in two consecutive years) for genetic associations with ALD occurrence. In total 131 Rambouillet rams, including 17 ALD-affected and 114 unaffected, were genotyped using AxiomTM Ovine Genotyping Array (50K). A genome-wide association study was conducted using a recessive chi-square model with correction by principal component analysis (eigenstrat). A marker on chromosome eight is significantly (unadjusted P-value= 1.74e-08) associated with the incidence of ALD. This marker is located within the gene; branched chain keto acid dehydrogenase E1 subunit beta (BCKDHB). BCKDHB is associated with mitochondrial membranes and metabolism which is required for effective bone (osteoblast and chondrocytes) formation. It is proposed that altered branched amino acid metabolism in rapidly growing sheep with this genotype may impart risk of limb deformities classified as ALD. Identifying genetic associations with ALD in sheep may help detect animals with a higher propensity for ALD, which would provide producers with additional tools to make informed management and breeding decisions.
Estimation of genetic parameters for superovulatory response traits in Japanese Black cows
Authors: Zoda Atsushi , Urakawa Manami , Oono Yoshio , Ogawa Shinichiro , Satoh Masahiro
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for superovulatory response traits in order to explore the possibility of genetic improvement in Japanese Black cows. We analyzed 19 155 records of the total number of embryos and oocytes (TNE) and the number of good embryos (NGE) collected from 1532 donor cows between 2008 and 2018. A two-trait repeatability animal model analysis was performed for both. Because records of TNE and NGE did not follow a normal distribution, the records were analyzed following no, logarithmic, or Anscombe transformation. Without transformation, the heritability estimates were 0.26 for TNE and 0.17 for NGE. With logarithmic transformation, they were 0.22 for TNE and 0.18 for NGE. With Anscombe transformation, they were 0.26 for TNE and 0.18 for NGE. All analyses gave similar genetic correlations between TNE and NGE, ranging from 0.60 to 0.71. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between breeding values of cows with more than 10 records was ≥0.95 with both transformations. Thus, the genetic improvement of TNE and NGE of donor cows could be possible in Japanese Black cattle.
Survival in Young-Onset Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Findings From Cancer and Leukemia Group B (Alliance)/SWOG 80405
Authors: Lipsyc-Sharf Marla , Zhang Sui , Ou Fang-Shu , Ma Chao , McCleary Nadine Jackson , Niedzwiecki Donna , Chang I-Wen , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Blanke Charles D , Piawah Sorbarikor , Van Loon Katherine , Bainter Tiffany M , Venook Alan P , Mayer Robert J , Fuchs Charles S , Innocenti Federico , Nixon Andrew B , Goldberg Richard , O’Reilly Eileen M , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A , Ng Kimmie
Published: October 2021

Background

The incidence of young-onset colorectal cancer (yoCRC) is increasing. It is unknown if there are survival differences between young and older patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

Methods

We studied the association of age with survival in 2326 mCRC patients enrolled in the Cancer and Leukemia Group B and SWOG 80405 trial, a multicenter, randomized trial of first-line chemotherapy plus biologics. The primary and secondary outcomes of this study were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), respectively, which were assessed by Kaplan-Meier method and compared among younger vs older patients with the log-rank test. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated based on Cox proportional hazards modeling, adjusting for known prognostic variables. All statistical tests were 2-sided.

Results

Of 2326 eligible subjects, 514 (22.1%) were younger than age 50 years at study entry (yoCRC cohort). The median age of yoCRC patients was 44.3 vs 62.5 years in patients aged 50 years and older. There was no statistically significant difference in OS between yoCRC vs older-onset patients (median = 27.07 vs 26.12 months; adjusted HR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.88 to 1.10; P = .78). The median PFS was also similar in yoCRC vs older patients (10.87 vs 10.55 months) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.02 (95% CI = 0.92 to 1.13; P = .67). Patients younger than age 35 years had the shortest OS with median OS of 21.95 vs 26.12 months in older-onset patients with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.08 (95% CI = 0.81 to 1.44; Ptrend = .93).

Conclusion

In this large study of mCRC patients, there were no statistically significant differences in survival between patients with yoCRC and CRC patients aged 50 years and older.
Orbital parameters of the hierarchical triplet system CN Lyn
Authors: Liao WenPing , Qian ShengBang , Li LinJia
Published: October 2021

CN Lyn is an intriguing triplet system that contains three equal-mass components. However, the orbital parameters of this rare triple system are still unknown. By monitoring the system since 2016 October 19, 13 eclipse times have been obtained. We discover that the observed minus calculated (O − C) diagram of CN Lyn shows a cyclical variation with a period of 15.80 (± 0.40) years and a projected semi-major axis of 0.0074 (± 0.0008) days. The orbital properties of the third body are investigated by analysing the light travel time effect. It is found that the third body is orbiting the central binary in an eccentric orbit (e3 ∼ 0.38 (± 0.18)). The orbital inclination is determined to be i3 = 25°, which reveals that the third body is non-coplanar to the orbit of the central eclipsing binary. This is the reason why investigators did not detect a clear periodicity in the radial velocities of the third body. By analysing one low-dispersion spectrum obtained with the 2.16-m telescope in Xinglong station, stellar atmospheric parameters of CN Lyn were derived. It is shown that the system has a low metallicity that is only about 21.5 per cent of the solar metallicity. The rare composition, eccentric orbit, low metallicity, and low orbital inclination of the triplets all indicate that the CN Lyn system can provide valuable information on the formation of multiple star systems, a matter of active research and debate.
Formation and evolution of binary neutron stars: mergers and their host galaxies
Authors: Chu Qingbo , Yu Shenghua , Lu Youjun
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we investigate the properties of binary neutron stars (BNSs) and their mergers by combining population synthesis models for binary stellar evolution (BSE) with cosmological galaxy formation and evolution models. We obtain constraints on BSE model parameters by using the observed Galactic BNSs and local BNS merger rate density (R0) inferred from gravitational wave (GW) observations, and consequently estimate the host galaxy distributions of BNS mergers. We find that the Galactic BNS observations imply efficient energy depletion in the common envelope (CE) phase, a bimodal kick velocity distribution, and low mass ejection during the secondary supernova explosion. However, the inferred R0 does not necessarily require an extremely high CE ejection efficiency and low kick velocities, different from the previous claims, mainly because the latest inferred R0 is narrowed to a lower value ($320_{-240}^{+490}\, \rm Gpc^{-3}\, yr^{-1}$). The BNS merger rate density resulting from the preferred model can be described by R($z$) ∼ R0(1 + $z$)ζ at low redshift ($z$ ≲ 0.5), with R0 ∼ 316–$784\, \rm Gpc^{-3}\, yr^{-1}$ and ζ ∼ 1.34–2.03, respectively. Our results also show that R0 and ζ depend on settings of BSE model parameters, and thus accurate estimates of these parameters by future GW detections will put strong constraints on BSE models. We further estimate that the fractions of BNS mergers hosted in spiral and elliptical galaxies at $z$ ∼ 0 are ∼81–84 and ∼16–19 per cent, respectively. The BNS merger rate per galaxy can be well determined by the host galaxy stellar mass, star formation rate, and metallicity, which provides a guidance in search for most probable candidates of BNS host galaxies.
The boosted potential
Authors: Stücker Jens , Angulo Raul E , Busch Philipp
Published: October 2021

The global gravitational potential, ϕ, is not commonly employed in the analysis of cosmological simulations, since its level sets do not show any clear correspondence to the underlying density field and its persistent structures. Here, we show that the potential becomes a locally meaningful quantity when considered from a boosted frame of reference, defined by subtracting a uniform gradient term $\phi _{\rm {boost}}(\boldsymbol{x}) = \phi (\boldsymbol{x}) + \boldsymbol{x} \cdot \boldsymbol{a}_0$ with acceleration $\boldsymbol{a}_0$. We study this ‘boosted potential’ in a variety of scenarios and propose several applications: (1) The boosted potential can be used to define a binding criterion that naturally incorporates the effect of tidal fields. This solves several problems of commonly used self-potential binding checks: (i) it defines a tidal boundary for each halo, (ii) it is much less likely to misidentify caustics as haloes (specially in the context of warm dark matter cosmologies), and (iii) performs better at identifying virialized regions of haloes – yielding to the expected value of 2 for the virial ratio. (2) This binding check can be generalized to filaments and other cosmic structures. (3) The boosted potential facilitates the understanding of the disruption of satellite subhaloes. We propose a picture where most mass loss is explained through a lowering of the escape energy through the tidal field. (4) We discuss the possibility of understanding the topology of the potential field in a way that is independent of constant offsets in the first derivative $\boldsymbol{a}_0$. We foresee that this novel perspective on the potential can help to develop more accurate models and improve our understanding of structure formation.
When did the initial mass function become bottom-heavy?
Authors: Sharda Piyush , Krumholz Mark R
Published: October 2021

The characteristic mass that sets the peak of the stellar initial mass function (IMF) is closely linked to the thermodynamic behaviour of interstellar gas, which controls how gas fragments as it collapses under gravity. As the Universe has grown in metal abundance over cosmic time, this thermodynamic behaviour has evolved from a primordial regime dominated by the competition between compressional heating and molecular hydrogen cooling to a modern regime where the dominant process in dense gas is protostellar radiation feedback, transmitted to the gas by dust–gas collisions. In this paper, we map out the primordial-to-modern transition by constructing a model for the thermodynamics of collapsing, dusty gas clouds at a wide range of metallicities. We show the transition from the primordial regime to the modern regime begins at metallicity $Z\sim 10^{-4} \,\rm {Z_\odot }$, passes through an intermediate stage where metal line cooling is dominant at $Z \sim 10^{-3}\, \rm {Z_{\odot }}$, and then transitions to the modern dust- and feedback-dominated regime at $Z\sim 10^{-2}\, \rm {Z_\odot }$. In low pressure environments like the Milky Way, this transition is accompanied by a dramatic change in the characteristic stellar mass, from ${\sim}50\, \rm {M_\odot }$ at $Z \sim 10^{-6}\, \rm {Z_{\odot }}$ to ${\sim}0.3\, \rm {M_\odot }$ once radiation feedback begins to dominate, which marks the appearance of the modern bottom-heavy Milky Way IMF. In the high pressure environments typical of massive elliptical galaxies, the characteristic mass for the modern, dust-dominated regime falls to ${\sim}0.1\, \rm {M_{\odot }}$, thus providing an explanation for the more bottom-heavy IMF observed in these galaxies. We conclude that metallicity is a key driver of variations in the characteristic stellar mass, and by extension, the IMF.
Rejuvenation triggers nuclear activity in nearby galaxies
Authors: Martín-Navarro Ignacio , Shankar Francesco , Mezcua Mar
Published: October 2021

Feedback, in particular from active galactic nuclei (AGNs), is believed to play a crucial role in the evolution of galaxies. In the local Universe, many galaxies with an AGN are indeed observed to reside in the so-called green valley, usually interpreted as a transition phase from a blue star-forming to a red quenched state. We use data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey to show that such an interpretation requires substantial revision. Optically selected nearby AGN galaxies follow exponentially declining star formation histories, as normal galaxies of similar stellar and dark matter halo mass, reaching in the recent past (∼0.1 Gyr ago) star formation rate levels consistent with a quiescent population. However, we find that local AGN galaxies have experienced a sudden increase in their star formation rate, unfolding on time-scales similar to those typical of AGN activity, suggesting that both star formation and AGN activity were triggered simultaneously. We find that this quenching followed by an enhancement in the star formation rate is common to AGN galaxies and more pronounced in early-type galaxies. Our results demonstrate that local AGN galaxies are not just a simple transition type between star-forming and quiescent galaxies as previously postulated.
Adenovirus prevents dsRNA formation by promoting efficient splicing of viral RNA
Authors: Price Alexander M , Steinbock Robert T , Di Chao , Hayer Katharina E , Li Yize , Herrmann Christin , Parenti Nicholas A , Whelan Jillian N , Weiss Susan R , Weitzman Matthew D
Published: October 2021

Eukaryotic cells recognize intracellular pathogens through pattern recognition receptors, including sensors of aberrant nucleic acid structures. Sensors of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) are known to detect replication intermediates of RNA viruses. It has long been suggested that annealing of mRNA from symmetrical transcription of both top and bottom strands of DNA virus genomes can produce dsRNA during infection. Supporting this hypothesis, nearly all DNA viruses encode inhibitors of dsRNA-recognition pathways. However, direct evidence that DNA viruses produce dsRNA is lacking. Contrary to dogma, we show that the nuclear-replicating DNA virus adenovirus (AdV) does not produce detectable levels of dsRNA during infection. In contrast, abundant dsRNA is detected within the nucleus of cells infected with AdV mutants defective for viral RNA processing. In the presence of nuclear dsRNA, the cytoplasmic dsRNA sensor PKR is relocalized and activated within the nucleus. Accumulation of viral dsRNA occurs in the late phase of infection, when unspliced viral transcripts form intron/exon base pairs between top and bottom strand transcripts. We propose that DNA viruses actively limit dsRNA formation by promoting efficient splicing and mRNA processing, thus avoiding detection and restriction by host innate immune sensors of pathogenic nucleic acids.
THUMPD3–TRMT112 is a m2G methyltransferase working on a broad range of tRNA substrates
Authors: Yang Wen-Qing , Xiong Qing-Ping , Ge Jian-Yang , Li Hao , Zhu Wen-Yu , Nie Yan , Lin Xiuying , Lv Daizhu , Li Jing , Lin Huan , Liu Ru-Juan
Published: October 2021

Post-transcriptional modifications affect tRNA biology and are closely associated with human diseases. However, progress on the functional analysis of tRNA modifications in metazoans has been slow because of the difficulty in identifying modifying enzymes. For example, the biogenesis and function of the prevalent N2-methylguanosine (m2G) at the sixth position of tRNAs in eukaryotes has long remained enigmatic. Herein, using a reverse genetics approach coupled with RNA-mass spectrometry, we identified that THUMP domain-containing protein 3 (THUMPD3) is responsible for tRNA: m2G6 formation in human cells. However, THUMPD3 alone could not modify tRNAs. Instead, multifunctional methyltransferase subunit TRM112-like protein (TRMT112) interacts with THUMPD3 to activate its methyltransferase activity. In the in vitro enzymatic assay system, THUMPD3–TRMT112 could methylate all the 26 tested G6-containing human cytoplasmic tRNAs by recognizing the characteristic 3′-CCA of mature tRNAs. We also showed that m2G7 of tRNATrp was introduced by THUMPD3–TRMT112. Furthermore, THUMPD3 is widely expressed in mouse tissues, with an extremely high level in the testis. THUMPD3-knockout cells exhibited impaired global protein synthesis and reduced growth. Our data highlight the significance of the tRNA: m2G6/7 modification and pave a way for further studies of the role of m2G in sperm tRNA derived fragments.
Gemcitabine radiosensitization primes irradiated malignant meningioma cells for senolytic elimination by navitoclax
Authors: Yamamoto Masahiro , Sanomachi Tomomi , Suzuki Shuhei , Togashi Keita , Sugai Asuka , Seino Shizuka , Sato Atsushi , Okada Masashi , Kitanaka Chifumi
Published: October 2021

Background

Malignant meningioma is an aggressive tumor that requires adjuvant radiotherapy after surgery, yet there has been no standard systemic therapy established so far. We recently reported that malignant meningioma cells are highly sensitive to gemcitabine; however, it remains unknown whether or how gemcitabine interacts with ionizing radiation (IR) in malignant meningioma cells.

Methods

We examined the radiosensitization effects of gemcitabine using malignant meningioma cell lines and xenografts and explored the underlying mechanisms.

Results

Gemcitabine sensitized malignant meningioma cells to IR through the induction of senescence both in vitro and in vivo. Gemcitabine augmented the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by IR, which, together with cell growth suppression/senescence induced by this combination, was inhibited by N-acetyl-cysteine, suggesting a pivotal role for ROS in these combinatorial effects. Navitoclax, a senolytic drug that inhibits Bcl-2 proteins, further enhanced the effects of the combination of gemcitabine and IR by strongly inducing apoptotic cell death in senescent cells.

Conclusion

These results not only indicate the potential of gemcitabine as a candidate radiosensitizer for malignant meningioma, but also reveal a novel role for gemcitabine radiosensitization as a means to create a therapeutic vulnerability of senescent meningioma cells to senolytics.
Multisite Transcutaneous Spinal Stimulation for Walking and Autonomic Recovery in Motor-Incomplete Tetraplegia: A Single-Subject Design
Authors: Samejima Soshi , Caskey Charlotte D , Inanici Fatma , Shrivastav Siddhi R , Brighton Lorie N , Pradarelli Jared , Martinez Vincente , Steele Katherine M , Saigal Rajiv , Moritz Chet T
Published: October 2021

Objective

This study investigated the effect of cervical and lumbar transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) combined with intensive training to improve walking and autonomic function after chronic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

Two 64-year-old men with chronic motor incomplete cervical SCI participated in this single-subject design study. They each underwent 2 months of intensive locomotor training and 2 months of multisite cervical and lumbosacral tSCS paired with intensive locomotor training.

Results

The improvement in 6-Minute Walk Test distance after 2 months of tSCS with intensive training was threefold greater than after locomotor training alone. Both participants improved balance ability measured by the Berg Balance Scale and increased their ability to engage in daily home exercises. Gait analysis demonstrated increased step length for each individual. Both participants experienced improved sensation and bowel function, and 1 participant eliminated the need for intermittent catheterization after the stimulation phase of the study.

Conclusion

These results suggest that noninvasive spinal cord stimulation might promote recovery of locomotor and autonomic functions beyond traditional gait training in people with chronic incomplete cervical SCI.

Impact

Multisite transcutaneous spinal stimulation may induce neuroplasticity of the spinal networks and confer functional benefits following chronic cervical SCI.
Tapentadol effects on brain response to pain in sensitized patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Pujol Jesus , Martínez-Vilavella Gerard , Doreste Andrea , Blanco-Hinojo Laura , Ojeda Fabiola , Llorente-Onaindia Jone , Polino Luciano , Deus Joan , Monfort Jordi
Published: October 2021

Objective

Pain sensitization, in the form of knee tenderness and anatomically spread hyperalgesia, is notably common in patients with knee OA and is often refractory to conventional interventions. Tapentadol, as an opioid receptor agonist and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, has been proposed as a potentially effective symptomatic treatment for pain-sensitized OA patients. We empirically tested whether tapentadol could attenuate brain response to painful stimulation on the tender knee using functional MRI.

Methods

Painful pressure stimulation was applied to the articular interline and the tibial surface, a commonly sensitized site surrounding the joint. Thirty patients completed the crossover trial designed to compare prolonged release tapentadol and placebo effects administered over 14 days.

Results

We found no effects in the direction of the prediction. Instead, patients administered with tapentadol showed stronger activation in response to pressure on the tender site in the right prefrontal cortex and somatosensory cortices. The somatosensory effect was compatible with the spread of neural activation around the knee cortical representation. Consistent with the functional MRI findings, the patients showed higher clinical ratings of pain sensitization under tapentadol and a significant positive association was identified between the number of tapentadol tablets and the evoked subjective pain.

Conclusion

The tapentadol effect paradoxically involved both the spread of the somatosensory cortex response and a stronger activation in prefrontal areas with a recognized role in the appraisal of pain sensations. Further studies are warranted to explore how OA patients may benefit from powerful analgesic drugs without the associated risks of prolonged use.

Trial registration

EudraCT, https://eudract.ema.europa.eu, 2016–005082-31.