bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calling behavior of Tetropium fuscum (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Spondylidinae)
Authors: Lemay Matthew A. , Silk Peter J. , Sweeney Jon
Published: April 2011

We describe the calling posture of the brown spruce longhorn beetle, Tetropium fuscum (F.), and demonstrate, using solid-phase micro-extraction and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry, that this posture is positively correlated with the release of fuscumol, a male-produced long-range pheromone. The posture is observed only in males and is characterized by an extension of the legs that raises the body entirely off the substrate at an angle of approximately 10°, with the posterior end higher than the head. Characterization of the calling posture is a useful diagnostic tool for future research on the reproductive biology of T. fuscum, since a simple visual assessment can be used instead of chemical analysis to determine when males are emitting fuscumol. In addition, we demonstrate that the presence of conspecific males stimulates calling behaviour in T. fuscum. This study contributes much-needed data on the biology and mating behavior of this invasive wood-boring species.
Laboratory evaluation of flight activity of Dendroctonus armandi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae)
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Zhen , Tang Ming
Published: April 2011

Dendroctonus armandi Tsai and Li is an important native pest of Chinese white pine (Pinus armandii Franch. (Pinaceae)) in the Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China. Populations can reach epidemic levels and cause widespread mortality of trees in forest ecosystems. We studied the flight behaviour of D. armandi collected under controlled conditions using a flight-mill system to gather information to aid in its management. Our results indicate that D. armandi has three distinct flight patterns (intermittent flight, short-burst flight, and sustained uninterrupted flight). There were no significant differences in flight performance between males and females. Median daily values for total distance traveled, total flight time, and maximum uninterrupted flight time were 275.1 m day−1, 815 s day−1, and 40 s day−1, respectively (n = 148). Individuals displayed positive phototactic behaviour: total flight distance and total flight time were greater under artificial illumination than in natural light or darkness. The level of flight activity increased throughout the morning, remained high during the afternoon (1400–1600), dropped considerably at 1800, and was lowest at midnight. There was no significant difference in flight distance or flight time between the first and second generations. From the data collected, it is clear that the phototactic response is an important factor in the flight behaviour of D. armandi and may influence its spatial dispersal.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Three Methods of Recanalization in a Model of the Middle Cerebral Artery: Thrombus Aspiration via a 4F Catheter, Thrombus Aspiration via the GP Thromboaspiration Device, and Mechanical Thrombectomy Using the Solitaire Thrombectomy Device
Authors: Tennuci Christopher , Pearce Gillian , Wong Julian , Nayak Sanjeev , Jones Tom , Lally Frank , Roffe Christine
Published: April 2011

Introduction. This paper compares different approaches to recanalization in a model of the middle cerebral artery (MCA).Methods. An occlusive thrombus (lamb's blood) was introduced into the MCA of a model of the cerebral circulation perfused with Hartmann's solution (80 pulsations/min, mean pressure 90 mm Hg). Three methods of clot retrieval were tested: thrombus aspiration via a 4F catheter (n=26), thrombus aspiration via the GP thrombus aspiration device (GPTAD) (n=30), and mechanical thrombectomy via the Solitaire Device (n=30).Results. Recanalization rate was similar for all 3 approaches (62%, 77%, and 85%). Time to recanalization was faster with aspiration devices (41 SD 42 s for 4F and 61 SD 21 s for GPTAD) than with the Solitaire (197 SD 64 sP<.05Kruksal-Wallis). Clot fragmentation was the same in the Solitaire (23%) and the GPTAD (23%), but higher with the 4F (53%,P<.05).Conclusion. In this model, thrombus aspiration was faster than mechanical thrombectomy, and similarly effective at recanalization. These results should be confirmedin vivo.
In SituEvaluation of Fludarabine-DNA Interaction Using a DNA-Electrochemical Biosensor
Authors: Eda Satana H. , Oliveira-Brett Ana Maria
Published: April 2011

Fludarabine, 9-β-D-arabinosyl-2-fluoroadenine, the nucleoside analog, represents a highly effective treatment for hairy cell leukemia. The electrochemical behaviour of fludarabine is an irreversible diffusion controlled oxidation mechanism and was investigated at a glassy carbon electrode in different supporting electrolytes using cyclic, differential pulse, and square wave voltammetry. The diffusion coefficient of fludarabine was calculated to beDFLU=1.71×10−6 cm2s-1in pH 7.0 0.1 M phosphate buffer. The oxidation mechanism of fludarabine occurs with the transfer of one proton and one electron and the formation of a hydroxylated species. The interaction of fludarabine with DNA was investigated, by differential pulse voltammetry, in incubated solutions and using dsDNA- and polyhomonucleotides-, poly[G] and poly[A], electrochemical biosensors. The results showed that fludarabine interacts with DNA causing changes in the DNA structure.
Perspectives on the History of Bovine TB and the Role of Tuberculin in Bovine TB Eradication
Authors: Good Margaret , Duignan Anthony
Published: April 2011

Tuberculosis remains a significant disease of animals and humans worldwide. Bovine tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacteria with an extremely wide host range and serious, although currently probably underdiagnosed, zoonotic potential. Where bovine tuberculosis controls are effective, human zoonotic TB, due toMycobacterium bovisorM. caprae, is uncommon and clinical cases are infrequent in cattle. Therefore, the control and ultimate eradication of bovine tuberculosis is desirable. Tuberculin tests are the primary screening tool used in bovine eradication. The choice of tuberculin test is dependent on the environment in which it is to be used. Tuberculin potency is critical to test performance, and the accurate determination of potency is therefore particularly important. The design of a control or eradication programme should take into consideration the fundamental scientific knowledge, the epidemiological profile of disease, the experience of other eradication programmes, and the presence, in the same ecosystem, of maintenance hosts, in which infection is self-sustaining and which are capable of transmitting infection. A control or eradication programme will necessarily require modification as it progresses and must be under constant review to identify the optimal desirable goals, the efficacy of policy, and constraints to progress.
Biochemical Characterization and 16S rRNA Sequencing of Few Lipase-Producing Thermophilic Bacteria from Taptapani Hot Water Spring, Orissa, India
Authors: Bisht Satpal S. , Panda Amrita K.
Published: April 2011

Three lipase-producing thermophilic bacteria (AK-P1, AK-P2, and AK-P3) were isolated from the Taptapani hot water spring in Orissa, India. The crude extra cellular lipases from cell-free culture supernatant were reacted in an olive oil mixture, and their lipolytic activities were compared. Identification of the bacteria was carried out using biochemical tests, 16SrRNA sequencing and sequences submitted to NCBI GenBank. Strain AK-P3, exhibited the highest lipolytic activity of 5.5 U/mL was identified as Porphyrobacter sp. The lipolytic activities of strains AK-P1 and AK-P 2 were 4.5 U/mL and 3.5 U/mL, respectively. Strains AK-P1 and AK-P2 were identified as Acinetobacter sp. and Brevibacillus spp. The GenBank accession numbers of the 16S rRNA gene sequences determined in this study for the strains AK-P1, AK-P2, and AK-P3 are HM359120, HM359119, and HM359118, respectively.
Autonomic Disorders in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lensch E. , Jost W. H.
Published: April 2011

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease leading to disseminated lesions of the central nervous system resulting in both somatomotor and autonomic disturbances. These involve the central centers of the autonomic nervous system, as well as the automatic control and pathway systems. All autonomic functions may be disordered individually or in combined form. There is no other disease with a clinical picture so multifaceted. Besides cardiovascular dysfunctions disorders of bladder and rectum have become apparent. Somatomotor and autonomic disturbances occur with similar frequency; however the focused exam often heavily favors somatomotor symptoms. Autonomic disturbances should primarily be taken into account on history taking and clinical examination. Individual diagnosis and treatment is a secondary feature. Impairments of the autonomic nervous systems in multiple sclerosis are frequently overlooked.
Idiopathic REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Implications for the Pathogenesis of Lewy Body Diseases
Authors: Miyamoto Tomoyuki , Miyamoto Masayuki , Iwanami Masaoki , Hirata Koichi
Published: April 2011

Objectives. Both results of the odor identification and cardiac123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine accumulation have been investigated for their potential to enhance the detection of pathogenesis resembling that of Lewy body-relatedα-synucleinopathies in patients clinically diagnosed as having idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder.Methods. We performed both the Odor Stick Identification Test for Japanese and123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy in 30 patients with idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder, 38 patients with Parkinson's disease, and 20 control subjects.Results. In idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder, reduced odor identification score and an early or delayed heart to mediastinum ratio on123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine were almost as severe as in Parkinson's disease patients. Delayed cardiac123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake was even more severe in the idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder group than in the Parkinson's disease group.Conclusions. Reduced cardiac123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake, which is independent of parkinsonism, may be more closely associated with idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder than olfactory impairment.
Ultrasonographic Application in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Pericarditis in Cows
Authors: Imran Sheikh , Tyagi S. P. , Kumar Amit , Kumar Adarsh , Sharma Shivali
Published: April 2011

The present study was conducted on 5 cows diagnosed with late-stage pericarditis based on a combination of clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, and postmortem examinations. On clinical examination, all the cows were found to be depressed, dyspnoeic, and moderately to severely tachycardic. The main radiographic findings were poor thoracic details and indistinguishable cardiophrenic silhouette. Ultrasonographically, the pericardial sac contained varying quantities of hypoechogenic exudate and echogenic fibrin shreds, which had caused physical compression of the cardiac chambers. The clinical and radiographic findings did not allow a definitive diagnosis of pericarditis, because all of the characteristic signs were not present in every case. Thoracic and abdominal ultrasonography played an important role in the early diagnosis and prognosis of the disease.
Influence of Water Quality on Cholesterol‐Induced Tau Pathology: Preliminary Data
Authors: Sparks D. Larry , Ziolkowski Chuck , Lawmaster Todd , Martin Timothy
Published: April 2011

The studies employed the cholesterol‐fed rabbit model of Alzheimer′s disease (AD) to investigate the relationship between AD‐like neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) neuropathology and tau protein levels as the main component of NFT. We measured brain and plasma tau levels and semiquantified NFT‐like neuropathology in cholesterol‐fed rabbits administered drinking water of varying quality (distilled, tap, and distilled+copper) compared to animals receiving normal chow and local tap water. Total tau levels in plasma were increased in all cholesterol‐fed rabbits compared to animals on normal chow, regardless of quality of water. In contrast, increased tau in brain and increased AT8 immunoreactive NFT‐like lesions were greatest in cholesterol‐fed rabbits administered distilled water. A substantial decrease in brain tau and incidence and density of AT8 immunoreactive NFT‐like lesions occurred in cholesterol‐fed rabbits administered copper water, and an even greater decrease was observed in cholesterol‐fed animals on local tap water. These studies suggest the possibility that circulating tau could be the source of the tau accumulating in the brain.
Amino Acid Features of PIB-ATPase Heavy Metal Transporters Enabling small Numbers of Organisms to Cope with Heavy Metal Pollution
Authors: Ashrafi E. , Alemzadeh A. , Ebrahimi M. , Ebrahimie E. , Dadkhodaei N. , Ebrahimi M.
Published: April 2011

Phytoremediation refers to the use of plants for extraction and detoxification of pollutants, providing a new and powerful weapon against a polluted environment. In some plants, such as Thlaspi spp, heavy metal ATPases are involved in overall metal ion homeostasis and hyperaccumulation. P1B-ATPases pump a wide range of cations, especially heavy metals, across membranes against their electrochemical gradients. Determination of the protein characteristics of P1B-ATPases in hyperaccumulator plants provides a new opportuntity for engineering of phytoremediating plants. In this study, using diverse weighting and modeling approaches, 2644 protein characteristics of primary, secondary, and tertiary structures of P1B-ATPases in hyperaccumulator and nonhyperaccumulator plants were extracted and compared to identify differences between proteins in hyperaccumulator and nonhyperaccumulator pumps. Although the protein characteristics were variable in their weighting, tree and rule induction models; glycine count, frequency of glutamine-valine, and valine-phenylalanine count were the most important attributes highlighted by 10, five, and four models, respectively. In addition, a precise model was built to discriminate P1B-ATPases in different organisms based on their structural protein features. Moreover, reliable models for prediction of the hyperaccumulating activity of unknown P1B-ATPase pumps were developed. Uncovering important structural features of hyperaccumulator pumps in this study has provided the knowledge required for future modification and engineering of these pumps by techniques such as site-directed mutagenesis.
A Case of Metastatic Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma Complicated by Resistant Hypercalcemia
Authors: Popalzai Muhammad J. , Aoun Nelly , Baz Walid , Mourad Mervat , Forte Frank , Friscia Philip
Published: April 2011

Tumors of salivary glands are uncommon and comprise of about 2%–4% of all head and neck tumors. About 75%–80% of these tumors are benign and include pleomorphic adenoma, monomorphic adenoma, oncocytoma, and papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common malignant tumor of salivary glands, representing 5–10% of all salivary gland tumors. Although known to be metastatic to local lymph nodes, distant metastases are rare (especially, with low and intermediate grade tumors). Histologic grade and the expression of various mucin glycoproteins are useful prognostic indicators. We present a case of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of parotid gland origin with distant metastases which is an uncommon occurrence with intermediate grade tumors. Also, this is the first reported case of humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy secondary to mucoepidermoid carcinoma.
Analysis of Plasma Zinc and Copper Concentration, and Perceived Symptoms, in Individuals with Depression, Post Zinc and Anti-Oxidant Therapy
Authors: Russo A.J.
Published: April 2011

Aim

To assess plasma Zn and Cu levels in individuals with depression.

Subjects and Methods

Plasma from 73 clinically depressed individuals, 38 individuals with anxiety and 16 controls were tested for plasma Zn and Cu concentration using inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.

Results

Depressed individuals, with and without secondary anxiety, had decreased plasma Zn and elevated plasma Cu compared to controls. Zn normalized (increased to the level of normal controls) but Cu increased in individuals with depression (with and without secondary anxiety), after Zn therapy, whereas both plasma Zn increased and Cu levels decreased in anxiety, with and without secondary depression, after Zn therapy. Individuals with depression, with and without secondary anxiety, had significantly higher symptom severity when compared to neurotypical controls. Symptom severity in individuals with anxiety (both with and without secondary depression) significantly decreased after Zn therapy, whereas symptoms remained the same in individuals with primary depression.

Discussion

These data show an association between Zn and Cu plasma levels and clinically depressed individuals, and suggest that high Cu levels are associated with high symptom severity.
Subjective Definitions of Problems and Symptoms in Palliative Care
Authors:   The Members of the HOPE Steering Group, Stiel Stephanie , Hollberg Christina , Pestinger Martina , Ostgathe Christoph , Nauck Friedemann , Lindena Gabriele , Elsner Frank , Radbruch Lukas
Published: April 2011

Background

Data from the core data set of the Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation (HOPE) from 1999 to 2001 demonstrated considerable variance in the incidence of patients’ symptoms and problems between participating services. This paper aims to investigate these differences more closely.

Methods

During the evaluation period of HOPE in 2002 a telephone survey with a representative of each participating unit was performed. Telephone interviews assessed the professionals’ definitions of selected symptoms and estimates of problem and symptom incidences. Content analysis was used to evaluate qualitative answers.

Results

Staff members rated pain, weakness, nausea/emesis as the most frequent physical symptoms; anxiety, depression and amentia as most frequent psychological symptoms; wound treatment, mobilisation and weakness as nursing problems and organisation of care settings, loneliness, demands of relatives the most common social needs. Staff members used a wide range of definitions for cachexia, weakness and depression.

Discussion

Standard definitions of symptoms and problems were lacking in the articulation of subjective staff members’ perspectives. Meaningful evaluation of multicentre surveys would require training in symptom assessment and classification in order to produce a common basis for documentation. Even though definitions differed widely, underlying concepts seemed to be compatible.
Efficiency of utilization of metabolizable energy for carcass energy retention in broiler chickens fed different wheat cultivars
Authors: Pirgozliev V. R. , Rose S. P. , Kettlewell P. S. , Bedford M. R.
Published: April 2011

Six different wheat cultivar grain samples were grown in both the 1993 and 1996 harvest years, and their concentrations of nitrogen-corrected, apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) were determined and carcass energy retentions compared when fed nutritionally complete diets for broiler chicks. The AMEn protocol involved a 14 d feeding period with growing chickens, with all excreta collected for the final 96 h. The carcass energy retention protocol involved a comparative slaughter technique in which growing chickens were given a wheat sample in a nutritionally complete diet at 90% of ad libitum intake. There was a significant (P = 0.023) linear relationship between energy retention and AMEn, although an r2 = 0.42 indicated that there was a substantial amount of unexplained variation. The ratio of energy retained per kg of additional wheat (kcal kg–1) eaten to AMEn (kcal kg–1) intake ranged from 0.49 –0.56 in the 12 wheat samples. There were no significant (P > 0.05) relationships between the proximate nutrient or polysaccharide compositions of the wheat samples and the ratio of energy retained to AME intake. However, there was a significant, (r2 = 0.40; P = 0.028) negative, linear relationship between the water extract viscosity of the wheat sample (log transformed) and this ratio. Key words: Metabolizable energy, energy retention, wheat, poultry
Optimizing pasture management for cow-calf production: the roles of rotational frequency and stocking rate in the context of system efficiency
Authors: Phillip L. E. , Goldsmith P. , Bergeron M. , Peterson P. R.
Published: April 2011

An experiment was conducted on grass pasture in southwestern Quebec to evaluate the benefits of management intensive grazing (MiG). Sixty-one spring-calving cows, with calves, were assigned to nine treatments, arranged as a 3 x 3 factorial of rotational frequency (RF) (high, 2-d; medium, 6-d; continuous grazing) and stocking rate (SR) ( high, medium and low; 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 ha per cow-calf pair, respectively). Hay harvested early in the season was used for pasture supplementation late in the season. Increasing RF had no effect (P > 0.05) on mean forage mass. Increasing SR from 0.9 to 0.5 ha per cow-calf pair resulted in a linear reduction (P < 0.01) in mean forage crude protein (CP) in September; forage CP was highest with 6-d rotation. At the start of the season, increasing RF caused a linear decrease (P < 0.01) in cow gain per head as well as gain per hectare, whereas increasing the SR caused a linear increase (P < 0.01) in cow gain per hectare without influencing cow gain per head (P > 0.05). Calf gain per hectare increased linearly (P < 0.01) in response to SR throughout the grazing season, but calf gain per head was unaffected (P > 0.05) by SR. Calf gains per head and per hectare were not influenced by RF until late season, when calves under a 6-d RF performed slightly better than both continuously grazed and 2-d RF calves. A 6-d-high SR system generated the greatest net revenue. The study showed little benefit of MiG on animal performance, but substantial benefit on efficiency of land use and economic performance. Key words: Grazing, cow-calf, net revenue, economics, animal performance
Effect of feed restriction on plasma concentration of hormones and metabolites in steers fed grass silage
Authors: Ouellet D. R. , Seoane J. R. , Bernier J. F. , Lapierre H.
Published: April 2011

Plasma concentrations of hormones and metabolites were measured in growing steers to establish their relation with degree of feed restriction. Sixty medium frame beef steers (259 ± 29 kg) were divided in groups of five and fed during 3 mo either timothy (T) or bromegrass (B) harvested at stem elongation of the first cut or at boot stage of the aftermath. Forages were fed at one of three levels of intake: ad libitum (FF), 80% of FF, or 65% of FF. Plasma concentrations of growth hormone (GH), insulin, glucagon, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), glucose and nonesterfied fatty acids (NEFA) were measured on day 1 and day 78 before the morning meal. The effect of a meal on GH, insulin, glucagon, IGF-1, glucose and NEFA concentrations was also determined in 24 steers sampled from 3 h before to 3 h after a meal. Severity of feed restriction resulted in a linear decrease (P < 0.05) of plasma glucagon (0.139, 0.130, 0.121 ± 0.005 ng mL–1) and IGF-1 (109, 98, 84 ± 7 ng mL–1). Insulin concentration tended to be affected quadratically (0.37, 0.35, 0.27 ± 0.04ng mL–1 for FF, 80% of FF and 65% of FF, respectively, P < 0.10). Ingestion of a meal resulted in a decrease (P < 0.05) of GH, NEFA and glucose, and an increase of insulin concentrations (P < 0.05). There was a positive correlation (r = 0.53, P < 0.05) between IGF-1 and average daily gain, and lipid percentage of carcasses suggesting that IGF-1 is related to growth rate and fat accumulation in growing steers. Key words: Feed restriction, growth hormone, insulin, IGF-I, metabolites, grass silage
Behavioural responses to climatic demands of dairy heifers housed outdoors
Authors: Redbo Ingrid , Ehrlemark Anders , Redbo-Torstensson Peter
Published: April 2011

The aim of the present study was to investigate the behavioural responses to different climatic demands of growing dairy heifers, during winter at a latitude of 60°N. Two groups (n= 11,12) of yearling dairy heifers were housed in two similar 3-ha enclosures, characterised by deciduous forest, ley and pasture. Each enclosure also contained a lying area, a heated water source and a feed bunk from which the heifers had free access to grass silage. The behaviour and location of each heifer were recorded by instant interval observations every 5 min between 0600 h and 2000 h during 23 observation days spread over the entire winter period. Outdoor temperature, wind speed and solar radiation were measured continuously. The climatic energy demand (CED, W m–2) was measured with a heated animal model. The climate had significant effects on all the main activities and on the location of the heifers. Higher CED values corresponded to a greater number of observations of heifers in the lying area, and a greater incidence of lying and of ruminating, but to a decreased incidence of eating and grazing. Increased migration to the forested areas instead of to open areas reflected increasing CED values. The results from the present study show that dairy heifers adapt their behavioural activity and choice of location to the climatic conditions, to reduce energy expenditure. Thus, dairy heifers can be sustained in a cold climate if they are provided with wind breaks and dry lying places. Key words: Bos taurus, dairy cattle, behaviour, winter climate
Substrate oxidation by isolated ovine enterocytes is increased by phlorizin-induced glucosuria
Authors: Beaulieu A. D. , Overton T. R. , Drackley J. K.
Published: April 2011

Intestinal cells harvested from wethers injected with phlorizin were utilized to determine the effects of decreased glucose availability on glucose, glutamine, and butyrate oxidation by ovine intestinal cells. Phlorizin injection increased (P = 0.002) conversion of substrates to CO2 by isolated enterocytes but not by colonocytes (P = 0.098). Key words: Enterocytes, colonocytes, ruminant, glucose
Glycerol addition and conservation of fresh and cryopreserved ram spermatozoa
Authors: Morrier A. , Castonguay F. , Bailey J. L.
Published: April 2011

Fresh extended ram semen has a short fertile lifespan whereas acceptable fertility with cryopreserved semen is achieved only by laparoscopy, which limits widespread artificial insemination in sheep. Although glycerol is considered essential for freezing spermatozoa, it is often included in extenders for short-term storage at above-freezing temperatures. To test the hypothesis that glycerol reduces the function of fresh sperm, ram semen was divided into two aliquots and diluted with commercial extenders that were identical, except that one contained 7% glycerol (n = 6). In a second experiment, ram semen was prepared for cryopreservation by a one-step dilution with a 7% glycerol extender or gradually, with a two-step protocol, to test the hypothesis that the method and time of glycerol addition affects sperm quality after freezing and thawing (n = 7). For both experiments, semen was diluted in a synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF-m) and sperm quality was assessed by computer-assisted motility, viability and chlortetracycline fluorescence (CTC) patterns (an indicator of capacitation status). The presence of glycerol did not affect the quality of fresh sperm (P > 0.27). For cryopreserved sperm, the method of glycerol addition also did not affect thawed sperm. However, a decrease in sperm motility and viability, and different distribution of CTC patterns occurred due to the duration of time in extender and in SOF-m (P ≤ 0.0002). Cryo-capacitation was also observed. In conclusion, the presence of glycerol in the extender did not reduce ram sperm quality during conservation of the semen at 5°C or when it was used to completely and rapidly dilute the semen before cooling for cryopreservation. Key words: Sheep, Triladyl, Biladyl, chlortetracycline, artificial insemination, spermatozoa.
Measuring individual free-choice protein supplement consumption by wintering beef cattle
Authors: Garossino K. C. , Ralston B. J. , McAllister T. A. , Olson M. E.
Published: April 2011

Free-choice supplements provide protein, trace minerals, vitamins, salt and chemotherapeutic agents to cattle. For optimal benefit, a supplement should be consumed on a regular basis and at levels that do not vary significantly on a day-to-day basis. Many factors affect variability in supplement intake such as palatability of the supplement, competition between animals and the ease with which the supplement may be consumed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences between a solid molasses-block supplement and a liquid-molasses supplement with respect to intake and the associated behaviors (attendance, duration, and intake rate). Using a cross-over design, 34 pregnant cows weighing 720 ± 11kg were randomly allocated to two separate groups (n = 17 for each group) and evaluated for two 3-wk periods (24 February to 16 March 1999 and 25 March to 14 April 1999), using both forms of the supplement. The individual intake was recorded by way of an electronic feeding system, which made use of an electromagnetic field around the feeder in conjunction with electronic identification (EID) tags, which registered each animal’s unique eight-digit number. Cows fed the liquid supplement visited the feeder more often (P < 0.05) when compared to those fed the block supplement. The mean dry matter intake did not differ between the supplements (349 g head-1 for the block and 330 g head-1 for the liquid), but there were significantly larger deviations in intake for the block supplement than the liquid (P < 0.05) indicating more uniformity in daily intake with the liquid supplement. In almost all cases the liquid supplement was consumed at a faster rate (P < 0.05) and significantly less time (P < 0.05) was spent at the feeder. Free-choice administration of additives in liquid supplements, as compared to blocks, may result in a more frequent and less variable intake. Key words: Protein, intake, supplement, cattle, behavior
Nutritional value of wheat screenings for broiler chickens
Authors: Audren G. P. , Classen H. L. , Schwean K. V. , Racz V.
Published: April 2011

Two trials were conducted to study the nutritional value of two wheat screening samples in broiler diets. Experiment 1 evaluated the chemical composition, and energy and amino acid digestibility while, exp. 2 evaluated the performance of 1980 female broiler chickens, housed in straw litter pens, and fed four different levels of the two wheat screening samples. In exp. 2, the wheat screening samples replaced 0%, 25%, 50% and 100% for sample 1 and 0, 25, and 50% for sample 2 of the wheat in diets fed to broilers. Each treatment was replicated six times with 55 birds per replication. The metabolizable energy, and protein content, and mean ileal amino acid digestibility were 3107 kcal kg-1, 15.77%, 83.3%, and 3023 kcal kg-1, 15.19%, 80.4% for wheat screening samples 1 and 2, respectively. The samples contained 90.5 and 88.2% wheat and the major weed seed in both samples was wild buckwheat, which was 4.5 and 6.3% in samples 1 and 2, respectively. In the broiler feeding trial, no significant differences were found between the wheat diet and those containing wheat screenings with regards to growth, feed efficiency, and mortality. There were variations in the composition of wheat screening samples; however, in this study, these variations did not significantly affect the performance of broiler chickens. Wheat screenings totally replaced wheat in balanced broiler diets without negatively affecting performance. Key words: Broiler chicken, feed, wheat screenings, wild buckwheat.
Digestible energy and amino acid contents in Canadian varieties of sorghum, pearl millet, high-oil corn, high-oil–high-protein corn and regular corn samples for growing pigs
Authors: Yin Y. -L. , Gurung Nar K. , Jeaurond E. A. , Sharpe P. H. , de Lange C. F. M.
Published: April 2011

Fecal digestible energy (DE) and ileal digestible crude protein (CP) and amino acid (AA) contents in sorghum, pear millet, high-oil corn, high-oil-high-protein corn, regular corn I and II were determined in growing pigs fitted with ileal “T ”cannulas. The cereal grain samples were grown in Canada and supplemented with vitamins and minerals to produce six experimental diets. Six pigs, with an average initial body weight of 17 kg, were fed the diets during six subsequent experimental periods according to a Latin square design. Pigs were fed twice daily at 2.6 times maintenance energy requirements. After a 7-d adjustment period, feces were collected for 3 d, followed by a 48-h collection of ileal digesta. Apparent and standardized ileal AA digestibilities were calculated. The high-oil corn and high-oil-high-protein corn had the highest (P < 0.05) DE content [4029, 4048 kcal kg-1 dry matter (DM), respectively]. The sorghum had a higher (P < 0.05) DE content (3941 kcal kg-1 DM) than pear millet (3603 kcal kg-1 DM) and regular corn I (3710 kcal kg-1 DM basis) and similar DE content to regular corn II (3945 kcal kg-1 DM). Contents of standardized ileal digestible CP and AA varied between cereal grains were generally highest (P < 0.05) for PM (CP: 101.6 g kg-1 DM; lysine, methionine plus cysteine, threonine: 3.4, 4.8 and 4.3 g kg-1 DM, respectively), HOPC (CP: 100.9 g kg-1 DM; lysine, methionine plus cysteine, threonine: 3.1, 5.4 and 4.3 g kg-1 DM, respectively) and similar for the other cereal grains (CP: 94.1–98.4 g kg-1 DM; lysine, methionine plus cysteine, threonine: 2.6–3.0, 3.4–4.3 and 3.3–4.0 g kg-1 DM, respectively). Differences in feeding values of these cereal grains should be considered when evaluating their potential inclusion in pig diets. Key words: Grains, pigs, energy, amino acids, digestibility
Digestibility of protein, amino acids and starch in mink (Mustela vison) fed diets processed by different extrusion conditions
Authors: Ljøkjel K. , Sørensen M. , Storebakken T. , Skrede A.
Published: April 2011

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of different extrusion processes on digestibility of a fish-meal-based diet fed to mink. The feed was processed in a twin-screw extruder with the exit temperatures of the meal of 100, 125 or 150°C. Feed production was carried out three times, using different extrusion conditions to achieve the target temperatures. An untreated meal mixture was included as a control diet. True digestibilities of crude protein and total amino acids were lower for diets extruded at 125 and 150°C than for the control (P < 0.05). Digestibilities of crude protein, total amino acids, and the amino acids alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine and valine decreased when increasing extrusion temperature from 100 to 125 °C (P < 0.05), a further increase in temperature did not influence digestibility (P > 0.05). The highest reduction was seen for cysteine (6.8 percentage units). Starch digestibility was increased by extrusion, but there was no effect of temperature (P > 0.05). Digestibilities of crude protein, total amino acids, alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, histidine, lysine, tryptophan and valine were affected by the processing method (P < 0. 05), which, by multivariate analysis, was revealed to be associated mainly with processing parameters: revolutions per minute, conditioner temperature, die temperature and feeding rate. Digestibility of starch was influenced mainly by the addition of water. Key words: Digestibility, protein, amino acid, starch, mink, extrusion
Effect of dietary linseed oil and α-tocopherol on selected properties of pig fat
Authors: D’Arrigo M. , Hoz L. , Lopez-Bote C. J. , Cambero I. , Pin C. , Rey A. I. , Ordóñez J. A.
Published: April 2011

The effect of linseed oil and α-tocopheryl acetate on the fatty acid composition, the susceptibility to oxidation of pig adipose tissue and the subcutaneous fat consistency was studied. Fifty female pigs were penned individually at approximately 25 kg and fed a conventional diet until 48.1 ± 3.5 kg. Pigs were then randomly assigned to one of five diets including: C, control (3% sunflower oil); L and LE (3% linseed oil) and LO and LOE (1.5% of linseed oil plus 1.5% of olive oil). LE and LOE had 200 mg α-tocopheryl acetate added per kilogram of diet whereas C, L and LO had 20 mg α-tocopheryl acetate added per kilogram of diet. Animals were slaughtered at 100.1 ± 7.1 kg. In the lard of the control diet animals the concentration of n-6 fatty acids rose markedly during the first 4 wk, and then stabilised. The concentrations of these fatty acids in the lard of L and LE group were not modified over time. In the lard of animals fed on LO and LOE diets, a moderate linear rise in the concentration of n-6 fatty acids was found. The addition of linseed oil to pig diets either as the only source of dietary fat or in combination with olive oil produced a higher (P < 0.0001) C18:3n–3 and total n-3 fatty acids concentration in adipose tissue lipids. The n6/n3 ratio was sharply reduced (from 9.88 in the control batch to at least 2.48) when pigs were fed diets enriched in linseed oil. It was concluded that the higher the dietary concentration of n-3 fatty acids the greater and faster the response of pig tissue. The α-tocopherol content of adipose tissue from pigs fed diets enriched with α-tocopheryl acetate (200 mg kg-1 feed) was significantly greater (P < 0.001) that those from pigs receiving a basal diet of 20 mg kg-1 feed. Adipose tissue from pigs fed diets enriched in C18:3n-3 showed higher susceptibility to oxidation than that from pigs fed diets containing high levels of C18:2n-6, but dietary supplementation with α-tocopheryl acetate markedly reduced the pig fat oxidation in groups fed diets enriched in n-3 fatty acids, eliminating the difference in the oxidative status between the two treatment groups. No effect of dietary treatment on lard rheological parameters (hardness, adhesiveness, springginess, gumminess and chewiness) of fat was observed. Conclusively, the diet enrichment in both linseed and α-tocopherol is a very effective approach to produce a healthier fat and to prevent the lipid oxidative deterioration. Key words: Pig, adipose tissue, linseed oil, fatty acid, α-tocopherol
Influence of lambing-to-rebreeding interval on ewe reproductive performance in anestrous season
Authors: Goulet F. , Castonguay F W
Published: April 2011

Seventy-nine primiparous crossbred Lacaune ewes were synchronized (in the anestrous season) with progestagen sponges, with mating at 75 or 90 d post-partum. Increasing the post-partum interval from 75 to 90 d improved body condition at mating, lambing rate, number of lambs born per ewe lambed, litter weight at birth, and number of lambs born per ewe treated. In conclusion, the productivity of primiparous ewes in an accelerated lambing system tended to improve when the lambing-to-rebreeding interval was increased from 75 to 90 d. Key words: Ewe, post-partum, anestrus, estrus synchronization, fertility, prolificacy
Savaging behaviour in domestic gilts: A study of seven commercial farms
Authors: Harris M. J. , Gonyou H. W.
Published: April 2011

Piglet-directed aggression at farrowing was investigated on seven large, new pig units. Gilts were subject to a light (continuous or diurnal light) and/or sound (newborn piglet vocalisations or no vocalisations) treatment around the time of farrowing. Behaviour records were collected for the first farrowing of 6625 crossbred gilts. The incidence of savaging, number of piglets affected by it and factors associated with piglet-directed aggressive behaviour were recorded. Piglet-directed aggression was scored as 0 (none), 1 (moderate) or 2 (severe). Effects of the light and sound treatments, situation of the farrowing crate within the farrowing room and time (from first to fourth fill of the farrowing rooms) were examined. Three hundred and thirty-one gilts (5.3%) displayed some degree of aggression towards their piglets (scoring either 1 or 2), while 201 (2.9%) killed piglets.
A comparison of neural network and multiple regression predictions for 305-day lactation yield using partial lactation records
Authors: Grzesiak W. , Lacroix R. , Wójcik J. , Blaszczyk P.
Published: April 2011

Milk yield predictions based on artificial neural etworks and multiple regression were studied. The 305-d lactation yield predictions were based on milk yield of the first 4 test days. Average 305-d milk production of the herd, number of days in milk and month of calving. The predictions made with either the neural network or the multiple regression model did not differ (P > 0.05) from the values estimated with the current Polish dairy cattle evaluation system. The neural network model may be alternative method of predicting these traits. Key words: Artificial neural networks, multiple linear regression, milk yield prediction, test day data
Diet, total plasma homocysteine concentrations and mortality rates in broiler chickens
Authors: Samuels S. E.
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to determine if total plasma homocysteine (HCY) concentrations and mortality rates due to ascites syndrome and (AS) sudden death syndrome (SDS) in broiler chickens could be lowered by diet. Elevated plasma HCY is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease in humans. A total of 828 day-old male broiler chickens (Arbor Acre) were fed, for 6 wk, either a basal practical diet or one supplemented with excess vitamins B6 and B12, folic acid and betaine to stimulate the degradation of HCY. The supplemented diet decreased plasma HCY by 17% (P < 0.05; n = 16 per diet). Total mortality due to AS and SDS was 18% lower in the supplemented diet but this difference was not statistically significant. Key words: Homocysteine, folate, chickens, cardiovascular disease, ascites, sudden death syndrome
Performance and carcass characteristics of growing-finishing pigs fed diets containing graded levels of canaryseed
Authors: Thacker P. A.
Published: April 2011

This study was conducted to determine the performance and carcass characteristics of growing-finishing pigs fed diets containing graded levels of canaryseed. Sixty-four crossbred pigs (Pig Improvement Canada Ltd) weighing 34.4 ± 2.8 kg were assigned on the basis of sex, weight and litter to one of five dietary treatments in a factorial (5 treatments × 2 sexes) arrangement. A barley and soybean meal diet served as the control. The remaining pigs were fed diets in which approximately 25, 50, 75 or 100% of the barley was replaced by canaryseed (cv. Elias). There was a linear (P = 0.01) decrease in dry matter digestibility with increasing level of canaryseed. In contrast, crude protein digestibility showed a linear increase (P = 0.01) with increasing level of canaryseed. Gross energy digestibility of the diets did not differ (P > 0.05). Over the entire experimental period (34.4 to 107.8 kg), there was a quadratic (P = 0.01) response for weight gain. The 25% canaryseed diet supported the highest growth rate and pigs fed the 100% canaryseed diet had the lowest gain. Feed intake and feed conversion were unaffected (P > 0.05) by level of canaryseed. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in carcass weight, carcass value index, estimated lean yield, loin fat depth or loin lean depth as a result of canaryseed inclusion. However, there was a quadratic (P = 0.02) response for dressing percentage with increasing level of canaryseed. The overall results of this experiment provide a favorable indication that canaryseed can be successfully fed to growing-finishing pigs without dramatically affecting pig performance or carcass characteristics. Therefore, in the future, the swine industry may provide an alternative to the caged bird market as an outlet for growers of canary seed to market their product. Key words: Canaryseed, swine, digestibility, growth
Nutritionally related disorders affecting feedlot cattle
Authors: Galyean M. L. , Rivera J. D.
Published: April 2011

Digestive disorders account for approximately 25 to 33% of deaths in feedlot cattle and likely contribute to decreased performance and efficiency of production. A variety of nutritional, management, genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors seem to be involved in the development of metabolic disorders in feedlot cattle. Excessive production of acid in the rumen is often either the cause of or a significant contributing factor to metabolic and nutritional disorders, including acute or sub-acute (chronic) acidosis, liver abscesses, and feedlot bloat. Decreasing the percentage of highly fermentable concentrates in feedlot diets by increasing roughage level or limiting feed intake should decrease the incidence of these disorders, but this approach is usually not economically feasible. Careful feed bunk management is often thought to be important for decreasing the incidence of nutritionally related disorders, but research to support its importance is limited and conflicting. Certain feed additives like ionophores seem to be effective for decreasing the incidence of acidosis and feedlot bloat, presumably through decreased total feed intake, smaller and more frequent meals, and direct effects on the ruminal microbial population. The incidence of liver abscesses can be decreased by the feeding of various antibiotics. Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) can result from several causes, including thiamine deficiency; however, recent data suggests that overproduction of H2S in the rumen is an important cause of PEM when intakes (feed and water) of sulfur are high in feedlot cattle. Key words: Beef cattle, acidosis, bloat, liver abscesses, polioencephalomalacia