bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of levosimendan on ventriculo-arterial coupling and cardiac efficiency in paediatric patients with single-ventricle physiology after surgical palliation: retrospective study
Authors: Iacobelli Roberta , Ricci Zaccaria , Marinari Eleonora , Haiberger Roberta , Di Molfetta Arianna , Toscano Alessandra , Di Chiara Luca 
Published: December 2019

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The use of levosimendan for paediatric patients with low cardiac output after congenital heart surgery has been recently described. We sought to evaluate ventriculo-arterial coupling (VAC) and other ventricular energetic parameters before and after 72 h from levosimendan start in infants with single-ventricle physiology and cardiac failure after palliation with Norwood or hybrid procedures.

METHODS
In this single-centre retrospective study, 9 consecutive patients affected by hypoplastic left heart syndrome-like anatomy were retrospectively analysed. Systolic elastance, diastolic elastance, arterial elastance, VAC and cardiac mechanical efficiency were calculated by measuring, through 2-dimensional echocardiography, end-systolic volume and end-diastolic volume and by recording mean arterial pressure and central venous pressure.

RESULTS
The median (range) weight and age were 2.8 (2.3–6) kg and 16.5 (6–116) days, respectively. After 72 h from levosimendan start, end-systolic volume significantly decreased (−1 ml, −3.2 to −0.1, P = 0.007), whereas mean arterial pressure and end-diastolic volume remained stable. Heart rate showed a significant decrease (−28 beats/min, −41 to 22, P = 0.008). Systolic elastance (2.9 mmHg/ml, 0.4–5.4, P = 0.008), arterial elastance (−5.9, −24 to −0.5, P = 0.038), VAC (−0.86, −1.5 to −0.16, P = 0.009) and cardiac mechanical efficiency (0.18, 0.03–0.22, P = 0.008) differences also showed significant modifications.

CONCLUSIONS
In a small case series of patients with single-ventricle physiology, levosimendan showed to improve contractility and optimize VAC, with a reduction of heart rate. Monitoring of VAC and ventricular energetics can be an interesting aspect to improve the management of heart failure in infants with univentricular anatomy.
Thrombotic risk following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery versus open thoracotomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Spiezia Luca , Liew Aaron , Campello Elena , Di Gregorio Guido , Zuin Andrea , Simioni Paolo 
Published: December 2019

AbstractOBJECTIVESThere is no consensus on the risk of thrombotic events following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) versus open thoracotomy (OT), despite multiple studies. In fact, the estimates for the overall thrombotic risk for VATS versus OT are inconclusive. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we endeavoured to ascertain the best estimate of thrombotic risk in VATS versus OT.METHODSRelevant studies were searched through PubMed and Cochrane Library database. Outcomes of interests were myocardial infarction (MI), pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Data were pooled using random-effects model. The results were presented as odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).RESULTSNineteen studies were meta-analysed: 17 observational studies and 2 randomized controlled trials. Using propensity-matched data, in comparison with OT, VATS was associated with a statistically significant, postoperative reduction in MI (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.39–0.91; P = 0.017), DVT/PE (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.44–0.61; P &lt; 0.001), PE (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.43–0.82; P = 0.001) and DVT (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.35–0.64; P &lt; 0.001). Unadjusted data showed no statistical differences for all outcomes. The risk of DVT/PE (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.42–0.72; P &lt; 0.001), but not the other outcomes, remained significantly lower following the exclusion of the sole large study. There is no significant statistical heterogeneity between the included studies.CONCLUSIONSOverall, the postoperative thrombotic risk following VATS is significantly lower than OT. Further prospective randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes are warranted to corroborate our findings.
321 Socio-demographic factors associated with attitudes towards animals among first-year veterinary students
Authors: Robbins Jesse , Parsons Rebecca , Johnson Anna , Jorgensen Matthew , Danielson Jared , Millman Suzanne 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Veterinarians are seen as experts in matters relating to animal welfare and ethics. However, relatively little is known about veterinary students’ attitudes and beliefs towards animals. To begin to address this gap, we surveyed the freshman class of veterinary students at a major U.S. veterinary college (n = 125) to examine their views on the ethics of various forms of animal use, their beliefs about the extent to which different species are capable of experiencing emotions (AKA ‘belief in animal mind’) and their beliefs about the degree to which humans and non-human animals are similar. The 20-item attitudes towards animal scale showed high internal consistency (a = 0.91, CI95 [95% Confidence Interval] 0.89, 0.93). Preliminary multiple regression analyses indicated female (vs male) students held more positive attitudes toward animals (b = 0.35, P = .005). Growing up in a household where animals were raised for food was associated with less positive attitudes (b = -0.30, P = .006). More liberal political ideology was associated with more positive attitudes towards animals (b = 0.17, P = &lt; .0001). Female students also believed animals were capable of experiencing a greater diversity of emotions (b = 126.96, P = 0001). Neither socioeconomic status (P = 0.65) nor having a pet as a child (P = 0.12) were associated with attitudes towards animals or belief in animal mind. However, childhood pet ownership was associated with greater perceived similarity between human and non-human animals (b = 1.38, P = 0.01). Subsequent analyses will assess whether taking a required, introductory course in animal welfare has any effect on these measures. Eventually these data could provide baseline information for longitudinal analyses exploring how student attitudes and beliefs about animals are affected as they progress through the veterinary curriculum.
199 Beef cattle genetic technology utilization - survey of stakeholders 2018
Authors: Weaber Robert L , Kuehn Larry A , Snelling Warren , Thallman Mark , Golden Bruce L , Spangler Matt L 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
A web-based survey was conducted to understand the utilization of digital and genetic information by beef producers to inform the development of an online beef cattle selection decision support tool allowing creation of customized selection indices. Of 1,656 respondents, responses from U.S. seedstock, commercial cow-calf, stocker and feedlot sectors in 43 states formed a subset (n = 1,065) used in this analysis. Of respondents, 89% were owners, 76% and 47% identified involvement in the commercial cow-calf sector and seedstock sector, respectively (responses were permitted for multiple sectors). Respondents averaged 55 years old with 31 years beef industry experience. Percentages with 100 or fewer females for breeding, 100–500 cows, 500–1,000 cows and more than 1,000 cows were 47, 38, 8, and 6%, respectively. Bull purchases per year were 0 (21%), 1–2 (53%), 3–5 (15%), 6–10 (5%), 11–20 (2%), and &gt;20 (2%). Seedstock producers and industry meetings were most frequently cited as good sources of genetics information. Expected progeny differences were the most commonly reported/used source of genetic information. Nearly 70% (57%) reported keeping very or somewhat detailed animal production/performance (cost of production) records. The majority (90%) have a smart phone while only 45% use a tablet/iPad. Most producers (65%) used the internet as a source of agriculture data/information at least daily. Of all respondents, 44% spend 10 hours or more per week on the internet and 59% had greater than DSL speed. Two-thirds correctly identified the definition of a selection index with 80% indicating that selection indexes provide an efficient, consistent and objective method of ranking selection candidates. Nearly 64% would probably or definitely use an online tool to generate customized indexes. Willingness to pay annually for a tool varied with 36% only using it if free/sponsored, 17% would pay $50–99, 14% would pay $100–249, with 3% would pay $500 or more.
212 Genomic prediction of carcass average daily gain, fat and loin depth in three-way crossbred pigs including information collected on purebreds
Authors: Tiezzi Francesco , Schwab Clint , Fix Justin , Maltecca Christian 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to predict three-way crossbred performance for carcass traits using different crossbred/purebred reference populations. Carcass measures (average daily gain, back-fat and loin depths) were collected in 4,893 three-way-cross individuals (CB individuals, 1,252 being genotyped). Live measures of body weight and tissue deposition were collected on 3,050 purebred Duroc individuals (PB individuals, 941 being genotyped), paternal-half-sibs (PHS) of the CB individuals. Models’ predictive performance was tested via 4-fold cross-validation. The basic model included CB phenotypes from the training set without inclusion of genomic information (i.e. pedigree BLUP). We also sequentially included: 1) CB genotypes; 2) PB phenotypes and genotypes for the training families (PBt); 3) PB phenotypes and genotypes for the validation families (PBv). Variance components (heritabilities and genetic correlations between CB and PB traits) were not estimated but fixed at different values within a plausible interval, the combination of such parameters that gave the best predictive ability was considered for that model. Results reported pedigree prediction of CB traits to show about 0.25 accuracy (correlation between breeding value and adjusted phenotype) for the three traits. The inclusion of CB genotypes was beneficial, with an increase ranging from 25 to 50% (depending on the trait) compared to pedigree prediction. When PBt genotypes and phenotypes were included, prediction accuracy dropped to almost null accuracy. When PBv genotypes and phenotypes were included, predictive performance was better than models that included CB information only. Results suggest that PB information can improve selection accuracy for CB traits, with the condition PB are PHS of the CB in validation. Otherwise, inclusion of PB information from the training set can be detrimental. CB genotypes, on the other hand, always improve prediction accuracy. We can conclude that reference populations aimed at improving CB performance should include phenotypes and genotypes from these individuals.
217 Capturing genetic diversity – an assessment of the nation’s gene bank in securing Duroc pigs
Authors: Wilson Carrie S , Rohrer Gary A , Newcom Douglas W , Blackburn Harvey D 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Benchmarking the completeness of gene bank collections (GBC) vs in-situ populations is an indicator of how well collections can represent a breed. To that end, we compared Durocs in the gene bank (69 animals) vs in-situ population (175 animals) using molecular markers. The in-situ pigs were from 10 states and 42 breeders (provided by National Swine Registry and USMARC) while the GBC pigs were from 14 states and 39 breeders. In-situ and GBC pigs were genotyped using the Illumina PorcineSNP60v1 and GGP-HD SNP arrays, respectively. Using both arrays, the SNP mapped to autosomal chromosomes were imputed using AlphaImpute software resulting in a combination of 71,515 SNP. Analyses were done using SNP & Variation Suite v8.8.1. After quality control deletions for call rate, sample rate, and monomorphic markers, 32,215 SNP remained and 4 in-situ animals were excluded. In-situ and GBC estimates of heterozygosity were similar (HO ~ 0.32 and HE ~ 0.32). The in-situ and GBC populations had 459 and 1,228 monomorphic markers, respectively, that were polymorphic in the other population. The in-situ pigs had more rare alleles, defined as an allele frequency &lt; 0.01, than the GBC pigs (1,790 vs 1,154). Both populations had a similar number of highly polymorphic markers, defined as an allele frequency 0.3 to 0.5, with 12,703 for the in-situ and 12,603 for the GBC pigs. Wright’s FST between the two populations was 0.0065, suggesting no difference between the two populations. Principle components 1 and 2 explained 22 and 12% of the variation, respectively, with no distinction between the in-situ and GBC populations. Benchmarking the in-situ and GBC populations indicated 98.1% of sampled in-situ alleles were captured in the collection. This evaluation indicates that gene banks can capture a breed’s genetic diversity and have the germplasm available for utilization by industry and research communities.
242 Effects of different carbohydrate sources on taurine status in healthy Beagle dogs
Authors: Pezzali Julia Guazzelli , Acuff Heather L , Alexander Celeste , Swanson Kelly S , Aldrich Charles G 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Consumption of grain-free (GF) diets has recently been linked to canine dilated cardiomyopathy in selected dog breeds. Soluble fiber present in GF carbohydrate sources may be contributing to taurine depletion, thus affecting heart health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different carbohydrate sources on taurine status in healthy Beagle dogs. Two practical diets sufficient in sulfur-amino acids and taurine were formulated with the same proportion of carbohydrate sources: a grain-based (GB) containing sorghum, millet, and spelt, and a GF containing peas, potatoes and tapioca starch. Twelve Beagle dogs were fed experimental diets for 4-wk in a randomized complete block design. The morning prior to feeding experimental diets (baseline) and two and four weeks after, markers of taurine metabolism were analyzed in blood, urine, and fresh fecal samples. Data were analyzed as a change from baseline in a repeated measures model by GLIMMIX (SAS, version 9.4) in which the main effects of time, diet, and their interaction were evaluated. Greater concentrations of taurine in plasma (158 vs. 117 nmol/mL) and whole blood (254 vs. 234 nmol/mL) were observed during experimental period compared to baseline. An increase in plasma methionine was also observed during experimental period compared to baseline (64 vs. 57nmol/mL). Dogs fed GF exhibited higher plasma taurine concentration compared to those fed GB (181 vs. 138 nmol/mL). There were no significant effects of diet, time, or their interaction on plasma cystine concentration, urinary taurine:creatinine ratio, or total fecal bile acid (BA) excretion (P &gt; 0.05). However, dogs fed GF had greater fecal primary BA (26 vs 14%) as a proportion of total BA compared to those fed GB. This study suggests that GF diets do not impair taurine blood concentration, but the increased proportion of fecal primary BA may decrease recycling of taurine through enterohepatic circulation.
358 Effects of fermented feed supplementation on pig growth performance: A meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Bocheng , Li Zhi , Lu Zeqing , Wang Yizhen 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Fermented feed (FF) is recommended due to its high nutritional value and digestibility, but its effects on pig growth performance are inconsistent. This meta-analysis was conducted to quantify the effects of FF on pig growth performance. We systematically searched in PubMed and Web of Science for studies (published between January 1, 2000 and December 20, 2018) comparing the effects of FF supplementation with basal diet on the pig growth performance. The main outcomes were average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and gain: feed ratio (G/F). Random-effects model was used to compute the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). The robustness of the pooled estimates was determined using sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Of 1371 identified articles, 25 were eligible and were included in the meta-analysis (n = 2391 pigs). Compared with the basal diet, FF supplementation improved ADG and G/F of weaned piglets (ADG: WMD = 18.698 g/d, 95% CI: 13.925 to 23.472, P &lt; 0.001; G/F: WMD= 0.027, 95% CI: 0.020 to 0.036, P &lt; 0.001), growing pigs (ADG: WMD =24.436 g/d, 95% CI: 12.441 to 36.430, P &lt; 0.001; G/F: WMD = 0.011, 95% CI: 0.003 to 0.021, P = 0.004), and finishing pigs (ADG: WMD = 42.012 g/d, 95% CI: 8.799 to 75.226, P = 0.015; G/F: WMD = 0.018, 95% CI: 0.004 to 0.032, P = 0.014), but had no effect on ADFI (P &gt; 0.05). The subgroup analyses revealed that fermented feed ingredients could boost the growth performance of weaned piglets and growing pigs. Moreover, the fermented feed additives promoted growth at all stages. Our study supports FF can enhance pig growth performance. To our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis on the topic to provide production strategies for FF application in pig industry.
145 Eco-efficiency of Northeast U.S. grass-fed beef systems
Authors: Dillon Jasmine A , Rotz Alan , Karsten Heather 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Grass-fed beef systems (GFB) are one approach proposed to improve the sustainability of animal-sourced foods. Our objective was to estimate carbon (CF) and reactive nitrogen (NF) footprints and cost of production (COP) for northeastern U.S. GFB. A partial life cycle assessment was conducted using the Integrated Farm System Model (IFSM). Systems were characterized using surveys and interviews. Representative operations were simulated in IFSM by grouping farms with similar environments and forage management practices. Environments were defined using USDA Plant Hardiness Zones. Farms were categorized as feed sufficient (FS: produced all supplemental forage on-farm) or feed importing (FI; purchased all supplemental forage). Differences between zones and farm types were analyzed using Dunn’s test with a Bonferroni correction and the Kruskal-Wallis test, respectively. Warmer zones supported longer grazing seasons (P &lt; 0.01), greater pasture legume content (P &lt; 0.05), and denser stocking rates (P &lt; 0.01), resulting in twice the market weight production per hectare compared with farms in cooler zones (P &lt; 0.01). Grazing season length and pasture legume content were similar between farm types (P &gt; 0.1). FI herds were half the size of FS herds (P &lt; 0.01), used 37% more land per animal (P &lt; 0.01), and had 10% lighter market weights with 52% lower market weight production per hectare (P &lt; 0.05). CF, NF, and COP/animal were 1.1, 1.3, and 2.1-fold greater for FI farms, respectively. Zone differences in climate, soils, and pasture legume content affected footprints. In warmer zones where soils had greater clay content, N2O contributed a greater portion of CF and NF, and NO3 leaching was moderate. In the coolest zone with coarser soil, N2O contributed a small portion of CF and NF, with greater NO3 losses. Analyses suggest attention to nitrogen management, efficient resource utilization, and botanical composition might reduce CF and NF.
PSVI-7 Variation in bitter taste receptor genes in three breeds of goats
Authors: Worku Mulumebet , Ekwemalor Kingsley 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
The objective of this study was to detect bitter taste receptor (T2Rs) variants in three breeds of goats. The ability to taste bitter taste impacts feed intake, digestion, and rejection of potentially toxic substances. Blood was collected from three breeds of goats (Spanish, Savannah, and Boer n = 5 /breed). Genomic DNA was extracted. The concentration and purity of DNA was determined using the Nanodrop spectrophotometer. Primers specific for seven T2R gene variants (T2R3, T2R4, T2R10, T2R12, T2R13, T2R16, and T2R67) were used to detect the goat T2R gene based on average threshold cycle. DNA products were commercially sequenced (Eurofins Genomics). The sequenced products were used in BLAST against the Capra hircus redundant nucleotide database. All seven taste gene variants were detected in the Savannah breed, In Spanish goats T2R4 and T213 were not detected, In Boer goats only T2R3, T2R16 and T2R13 were detected. Polymorphisms in T2R impact dietary preference, innate immunity and health. Thus, studies are needed to ascertain the possible functional significance of this variation using a larger sample size
PSII-21 Vaginitis incidence and effects on fertility of beef females enrolled on estrus synchronization protocols using a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device
Authors: Dias Nicholas W , Sales Alvaro , Timlin Claire , Pancini Stefania , Currin John , Mercadante Vitor R G 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Our objectives were to characterize the incidence of vaginitis caused by a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) device and its effects on fertility of beef females enrolled on estrus synchronization followed by timed-artificial insemination (TAI). A total of 1,097 mature cows and 215 heifers from 9 different locations were enrolled in the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR synchronization protocol. At CIDR insertion, all females were inspected for any previous signs of vaginitis prior to enrollment in the experiment. As evidence of vaginitis, a CIDR score was determined at CIDR removal, and an AI plastic sheath score was also performed at TAI following a 1 to 4 system: 1=clean presenting no secretion; 2=clean presenting clear secretion; 3=presence of purulent secretion; 4=presence of purulent secretion and blood. Pregnancy status was determined by rectal ultrasonography approximately 40 days after TAI. The scores for CIDR and AI plastic sheath did not differ between cows and heifers. Of all females, 6% had a CIDR score of 1, 31% score 2, 56% score 3, and 7% score 4. Plastic sheath score was 1 for 16%, 2 for 62%, 3 for 15%, and 4 for 7% of females. Pregnancy rate to TAI differed between cows and heifers (P &lt; 0.01), among locations (P &lt; 0.001) and ranged from 36 to 66%; however, it was not influenced by CIDR score (P = 0.259) and plastic sheath score (P = 0.785). Pregnancy rate of females by different CIDR scores was 60%, 57%, 52%, and 46% for scores 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Pregnancy rate of females by different AI plastic sheath score was 60%, 55%, 45%, and 48%, for scores 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The presence of vaginitis caused by a CIDR does not influence pregnancy rates of TAI in beef females.