Observations about declining fertility in a feline breeding colony

Feline breeding colonies are important to the feline industry by preserving traits desirable for a particular breed or in research settings by maintaining medically valuable genetic traits. As breeding females age, their reproductive efficiency declines. The objective of this study was to determine the most common causes of infertility in breeding females that were producing fewer kittens. Knowing the cause and average age of infertility would allow management decisions to be made for the betterment of the colony. The medical records of 70 queens retired from breeding from a single research colony were examined for litter size and number, fertility over their lifespan, and age and reason for removal from breeding stock. Sections of uterus and ovaries were evaluated using gross and histopathological examination for a subset of these queens (46). The data suggests that mature, continuously breeding female cats may show signs of reduced fertility (infertile matings or reduced litter size) as early as 3 years of age and may be a result of undiagnosed Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH), endometritis, pyometra and/or ovarian cysts. Evaluation of breeding queens should include periodic ultrasounds to monitor for ovarian cysts and evidence of CEH. Retiring animals from breeding once signs of infertility become apparent is recommended.

Changes in HIV Prevention and Sexual Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study

BACKGROUND

STI and HIV services and infection rates were affected during the COVID-19 pandemic, because of changes in access to health care and individual behavior. Understanding how individuals made decisions around prevention and sexual activities during different phases of the pandemic is useful to addressing the rising rates of STIs and HIV.

SETTING

Federally-qualified health center focused on sexual and gender minority health, Chicago IL, 2021.

METHODS

Patients with a history of PrEP use who were contacted by the PrEP retention team as part of standard care were invited to complete an online survey. A subset of survey participants were then contacted to complete one-on-one interviews. Participants were asked about two distinct periods: November 2020 to January 2021 and February to June 2021.

RESULTS

From the 356 survey participants (mostly young, insured, and experienced with PrEP), more than half maintained their number of sex partners during the early pandemic and most also maintained PrEP use; during the later pandemic; most reported more or the same number of sex partners and almost all maintained PrEP use. From interviews, we identified diverse and changing experiences regarding sexual practices throughout the pandemic; whereas many participants changed PrEP use in accordance with sexual practices, many others maintained PrEP use as a habit. COVID-19 prevention was also a factor in sexual activities, particularly prevaccination.

CONCLUSION

Many PrEP users try to align their HIV prevention with their sexual exposures and establish PrEP as a long-term habit. Removing financial and access barriers is important to improve PrEP use and STI testing.

Increased duration of laser environmental enrichment increased broiler physical activity and pen-wide movement without altering tibia measurements

Inactivity and leg disorders negatively impact broiler welfare. Enrichment designed to increase barn complexity may encourage physical exercise. The study aim was to implement a second-generation laser enrichment device, previously shown to increase broiler activity, for extended periods of time and to measure behavior and tibia quality. A total of 1,360 Ross 708 broilers in 40 pens of 34 were assigned to laser enrichment or control (no laser enrichment) for 49 d. Seventy focal birds were randomly selected on d 0 for individual behavior analysis. Laser-enriched birds were exposed to 6-min laser periods 4 times daily. A 3-min novel object test was performed on all pens and tonic immobility was induced on 1 bird/pen on wk 1 and 6. Focal bird time budget and walking distance and pen-wide laser-following behavior and movement were obtained during laser periods d 0 to 8 and 1 d/wk through wk 7. Right tibias were collected from focal birds on d 49 for dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and bone breaking analysis. Time spent active during laser periods was increased on d 3, 6, and 8 and wk 2 to 3 in laser-enriched vs. control focal birds (P = 0.04). Time at the feeder was increased in laser-enriched focal birds on d 0, 3 to 4, and 8 and wk 2 and 4 (P < 0.01). Distance walked during laser periods was increased in laser-enriched focal birds on d 1, 3 to 5, 8, and wk 2 compared to the control (P < 0.01). Pen-wide movement was increased on d 0, 2, 4 to 8, and wk 1 to 5 and 7 in laser-enriched vs. control birds (P < 0.01). More laser-enriched broilers were within 25 cm of the novel object at 1 min 30 s than the control (P = 0.03), and latency to approach the novel object was reduced in both treatments at wk 6 compared to wk 1 (P < 0.01). Tonic immobility duration was increased by 123 s on wk 6 compared to wk 1, regardless of treatment (P < 0.01). Daily laser enrichment for extended periods increased bird activity without inducing fearfulness or altering tibia measures.

Breast muscle white striping and serum corticosterone reduced in broilers exposed to laser environmental enrichment

Genetic selection for breast yields and fewer days to market has inadvertent effects on broiler meat quality. Woody breast (WB) and white striping (WS) are pectoralis major myopathies prevalent in commercial broilers. Effects of voluntary exercise on these disorders, specifically, are unknown. A second-generation laser enrichment device shown to induce activity in Ross 308 and 708 birds was implemented using 1,360 Ross 708 broilers randomly assigned to laser enrichment or control for 49 d. Laser-enriched birds were exposed to 6-min laser periods 4 times daily. Seventy focal birds were gait and contact dermatitis scored weekly. Blood was collected wk 5 to 7 from 56 broilers for serum corticosterone, myoglobin, and troponin. Seventy broilers were sampled for breast muscle width, fillet dimensions, and WB and WS at wk 6 and 7. One and 2-day postmortem, fillet compression force and water-holding capacity were measured. Serum corticosterone was reduced by up to 21% in laser-enriched birds wk 5 to 7 (P < 0.01). Serum myoglobin was increased in laser-enriched broilers by 5% on wk 5 (P < 0.01) but increased in control birds wk 6 to 7 by up to 13% (P < 0.01). Serum troponin was reduced in laser-enriched broilers by 9% at wk 5 (P < 0.01). Laser exposure increased breast width and fillet weight at d 42 by 1.08 cm (P < 0.05) and 30 g (P < 0.05). At d 49, fillet height was increased 0.42 cm in laser-enriched birds (P < 0.05). Laser enrichment reduced severe WS incidence at d 42 by 24% (P < 0.05) and on d 49 by 15% (P < 0.10). Severe WB score was numerically reduced by 11% in laser enrichment on d 42 and 18% on d 49 (P > 0.05). Water-holding capacity was improved in laser-enriched breasts (P < 0.01) and expression of myostatin and insulin-like growth factor 2 were increased on d 49 (P ≤ 0.01. Laser enrichment reduced markers of stress and muscle damage while improving breast muscle quality and is therefore a potential effective enrichment for commercial broilers.

Improving young pig welfare on-farm: The Five Domains Model

Considering welfare through the "neonatal and nursery pig perspective" is an exciting approach, and one that resonates with consumers. Overlaying this with the Five Domains Model, as we suggest in this review, points to practical on-farm improvements that provide each pig the opportunity to experience positive mental states. The Five Domains Model is broken into physical and functional states, that includes Domain 1 Nutrition, Domain 2 Physical Environment, Domain 3 Health and, Domain 4 Behavioral Interaction, and Domain 5 Mental State. The Five Domains Model can build on the breadth and depth of swine welfare science to highlight opportunities to improve welfare on-farm. In Domain 1 management of increasingly large litters is considered, with examples of sow vs. artificial rearing, colostrum quality and quantity, and creep feed management strategies. Efforts can result in positive mental states such as feeling full and content and the ability to experience pleasure of drinking and food tastes/smells. Domain 2 considers space complexity and access to key resources, along with thermal and physical amenities, to promote feelings of physical comfort. Domain 3 considers pig health in three broad, yet inter-linking categories, (a) congenital and hereditary health, (b) environmental pathogen load and, (c) colostrum quality and quantity, and its effect on the microbiome. Improvements can result in a pig that displays vitality and feels healthy. Domain 4 provides the pig opportunities to express its rich behavioral repertoire, specifically positive social interactions, play, and exploration. These efforts can result in pigs feeling calm, safe, comfortable, having companionship, engaged, interested and rewarded. In conclusion, using the Five Domains Model can highlight numerous opportunities to improve current and future housing and management through the "neonatal and nursery pig perspective" with a focus on inducing positive mental states that can result in improved quality of life and welfare state.

Attitudes towards animals and belief in animal mind among first-year veterinary students before and after an introductory animal welfare course

Veterinarians are increasingly looked to for guidance on matters relating to animal welfare, yet little is known about US veterinary students' attitudes and beliefs about animals. In 2019, we surveyed all first-year veterinary students at a major US veterinary college (n = 123) before and after taking a required one-credit introductory animal welfare course. Attitudes were measured using the Pests, Pets and Profit (PPP) scale and belief in animal mind (BAM) was measured using an ad hoc measure adapted from previous work. Pre- and post-course comparisons indicated the introductory animal welfare course had no immediate effect on veterinary students' attitudes or BAM. Veterinary students' attitudes were most positive for animals considered pets, followed by pests and those used for profit. Students believed most species possess a wide variety of mental capacities, including many secondary emotions often considered uniquely human (eg guilt, embarrassment, jealousy). Sociodemographic variables consistently associated with more positive attitudes towards animals were: female gender, vegetarianism and liberal political ideology. Preferring a career involving large or food animal practice was consistently associated with less positive attitudes towards animals. Belief in animal mind explained 3% of the variation in attitude scores, whereas sociodemographic variables explained 49% of variation in attitude scores. Female gender, vegetarianism and preferring small (vs large or food animal practice) were all associated with greater BAM scores. Understanding veterinary student attitudes towards animals and beliefs about the mental capacities of animals is important when evaluating a veterinarian's ability to adhere to their oath.

Reciprocal interactions between sodium appetite and need-free sugar intake

Behavioral sensitization occurs during sodium appetite (expressed as sodium intake to compensate for depleted sodium) and need-free sodium intake (expressed as daily overnight sodium intake in excess of dietary sodium need). Previously, we found that a slow-onset sodium appetite protocol cross-sensitized need-free sucrose intake in sucrose-naïve adult rats. That is, a history of sodium depletion elevated later sucrose intake. The objective of the present work was, first, to investigate whether a protocol that evokes a rapid-onset (within 2 h) sodium appetite using furosemide along with a low dose captopril (Furo/Cap), also cross-sensitizes sucrose intake. Then, we investigated whether 1) sensitization of need-free 0.3 M NaCl intake interacts with need-free sucrose intake, and 2) MK-801, a glutamate NMDA receptor antagonist, inhibits cross-sensitization of sucrose intake. Groups received 3-4 Furo/Cap or vehicle treatments with 48/72-h intervals. We investigated sucrose intake in hydrated and fed conditions for 2 h/day for 5 days, starting 6-10 days after the last Furo/Cap treatment. Episodes of Furo/Cap sensitized need-free sodium intake, as expected. Similar to our prior work, the rapid-onset Furo/Cap protocol cross-sensitized sucrose intake in sucrose-naïve rats and had no persistent effect on blood biochemistry. MK-801 treatment along with Furo/Cap injections appeared to prevent cross-sensitization of sucrose consumption. Sucrose intake tests unexpectedly reduced sensitized need-free sodium intake. However, MK-801 treatment allowed a rebound in need-free sodium intake subsequent to the last sucrose intake test. The results suggest that plasticity in glutamatergic mechanisms mediate inverse and reciprocal interactions between the production of sodium appetite and sucrose intake.

0977 Risk Factors For Developing Sleep Disorders In Children

Introduction

Unidentified sleep disorders can affect emotional, cognitive and social development in children. Screening for sleep disorders within the pediatric population is not common practice during medical visits. The objective of this study is to identify specific questions related to behavioral and physiological factors having potential to screen and detect those at risk for sleep disorders in a general pediatric clinic.

Methods

A retrospective archive from electronic medical records was analyzed from 1,361 children patients, 0-18 years old, that visited a pediatric clinic from March-November of 2019. Children or their parents reported on the presence of eight objective behavioral and physiological factors on the Kids Sleep Screener Questionnaire (KSSQ), which were used as potential risk factors for sleep disorders. Propensity of daytime sleepiness was measured through the Epworth Sleepiness Scale for Children and Adolescents (ESS-CHAD). Scores higher than 11 were considered a positive indicator of potential sleep disorders because of excessive daytime sleepiness. Positive scores from the ESS-CHAD were used for comparison with the KSSQ factors using chi-square test of SAS software.

Results

Among the eight factors, snoring was the strongest risk factor and increased sleep duration was the weakest risk factor associated with a positive ESS-CHAD. Relationships among risk factors and the increased likelihood for developing sleep disorders were statistically significant (p&lt;0.05-p&lt;0.0001) and identified as following: snoring by 2.46 times, restless sleeper by 2.03 times, behavioral or learning difficulties by 1.43 times, nocturnal awakenings by 1.16 times, excessive sleepiness during the day by 1.10 times. Sleep onset latency and increased sleep duration were weak indicators due to a likeliness of less than one time (p&lt;0.05) to be associated with a positive ESS-CHAD. Abnormal sleep behavior was not a statistically significant risk factor (p≥0.05) for potential sleep disorders in children.

Conclusion

There were associations between seven behavioral and physiological risk factors with overall sleep propensity in children. These results exhibit that the KSSQ is an important tool to identify potential sleep disorders in children and the need for follow up with a sleep specialist. The KSSQ is under validation for becoming a standard sleep screener in pediatrics.

Support

N/A

A novel environmental enrichment device improved broiler performance without sacrificing bird physiological or environmental quality measures

Modern commercial broilers have been genetically selected for fast growth and heavy breast muscling, contributing to a top-heavy phenotype and increased leg lameness. A quick-growing phenotype coupled with poor leg health fosters inactivity. The objective of this study was to stimulate broiler movement using novel environmental enrichment and determine the impact of movement on production, leg health, and environmental parameters. A total of 1,200 Ross 308 broilers were housed in 40 pens with 30 birds/pen for 6 wk in 2 separate rooms (laser enrichment or control). Each enrichment device was mounted above 2 adjoining pens, projected 2 independent, randomly moving laser beams at the floor to stimulate innate predatory behavior, and was active 4 times daily in 4-min periods. Performance outcomes were calculated by pen and averaged per bird for each performance period and overall days 0 to 42. A total of 70 randomly selected focal birds were examined for breast blisters and footpad dermatitis each week and euthanized on day 42 for tibia quality measures. Air quality and litter moisture were sampled by week. Laser-enriched pens had greater average bird feed intake in starter (P < 0.001), grower (P = 0.004), finisher periods (P = 0.004), and overall days 0 to 42 (0.19 kg/bird; P = 0.0003). Average bird weight gain was also increased in enriched pens in each performance period: starter (P = 0.043), grower (P = 0.001), finisher (P < 0.001), and overall days 0 to 42 (0.24 kg/bird; P < 0.001). Enriched pens had improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) vs. control with a decrease of 3 FCR points in the grower (P = 0.031), 18 points in the finisher (P < 0.001), and 7 points overall (P < 0.001). Enriched pens had higher ADG during starter (P = 0.048), finisher (P < 0.001), and overall (5.7 g/bird/d; P < 0.001). No differences were found in breast blister, footpad dermatitis, tibia, air, or litter quality measures (P > 0.05). In summary, a novel enrichment device based on bird visual feeding and predatory instincts positively affected performance through decreased FCR and increased ADG without sacrificing external animal-based measures, tibia quality, or air or litter quality.

Correction: Adapting ACMG/AMP sequence variant classification guidelines for single-gene copy-number variants

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Frequency of Germline Mutations in Cancer Susceptibility Genes in Malignant Mesothelioma

PURPOSE

The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence and clinical predictors of germline cancer susceptibility mutations in patients with malignant mesothelioma (MM).

METHODS

We performed targeted capture and next-generation sequencing of 85 cancer susceptibility genes on germline DNA from 198 patients with pleural, peritoneal, and tunica vaginalis MM.

RESULTS

Twenty-four germline mutations were identified in 13 genes in 23 (12%) of 198 patients. BAP1 mutations were the most common (n = 6; 25%). The remaining were in genes involved in DNA damage sensing and repair (n = 14), oxygen sensing (n = 2), endosome trafficking (n = 1), and cell growth (n = 1). Pleural site (odds ratio [OR], 0.23; 95% CI, 0.10 to 0.58; P < .01), asbestos exposure (OR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.11 to 0.72; P < .01), and older age (OR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.92 to 0.99; P = .01) were associated with decreased odds of carrying a germline mutation, whereas having a second cancer diagnosis (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.22 to 9.07; P = .02) significantly increased the odds. The odds of carrying a mutation in BAP1 (OR, 1,658; 95% CI, 199 to 76,224; P < .001), BRCA2 (OR, 5; 95% CI, 1.0 to 14.7; P = .03), CDKN2A (OR, 53; 95% CI, 6 to 249; P < .001), TMEM127 (OR, 88; 95% CI, 1.7 to 1,105; P = .01), VHL (OR, 51; 95% CI, 1.1 to 453; P = .02), and WT1 (OR, 20; 95% CI, 0.5 to 135; P = .049) were significantly higher in MM cases than in a noncancer control population. Tumor sequencing identified mutations in a homologous recombination pathway gene in 52% (n = 29 of 54).

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of patients with MM carry germline mutations in cancer susceptibility genes, especially those with peritoneal MM, minimal asbestos exposure, young age, and a second cancer diagnosis. These data support clinical germline genetic testing for patients with MM and provide a rationale for additional investigation of the homologous recombination pathway in MM.

Targeted exome analysis identifies the genetic basis of disease in over 50% of patients with a wide range of ataxia-related phenotypes

PURPOSE

To examine the impact of a targeted exome approach for the molecular diagnosis of patients nationwide with a wide range of ataxia-related phenotypes.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy patients with ataxia of unknown etiology referred from clinics throughout the United States and Canada were studied using a targeted exome approach. Patients ranged in age from 2 to 88 years. Analysis was focused on 441 curated genes associated with ataxia and ataxia-like conditions.

RESULTS

Pathogenic and suspected diagnostic variants were identified in 88 of the 170 patients, providing a positive molecular diagnostic rate of 52%. Forty-six different genes were implicated, with the six most commonly mutated genes being SPG7, SYNE1, ADCK3, CACNA1A, ATP1A3, and SPTBN2, which accounted for >40% of the positive cases. In many cases a diagnosis was provided for conditions that were not suspected and resulted in the broadening of the clinical spectrum of several conditions.

CONCLUSION

Exome sequencing with targeted analysis provides a high-yield approach for the genetic diagnosis of ataxia-related conditions. This is the largest targeted exome study performed to date in patients with ataxia and ataxia-like conditions and represents patients with a wide range of ataxia phenotypes typically encountered in neurology and genetics clinics.

Review: Effects of Ractopamine Hydrochloride (Paylean) on welfare indicators for market weight pigs

This review summarizes the effects of ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) dose (5, 7.5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) on market weight pig welfare indicators. Ractopamine hydrochloride (trade name Paylean) is a β-adrenergic agonist that was initially approved in the U.S. in 1999 at doses of 5 to 20 mg/kg to improve feed efficiency and carcass leanness. However, anecdotal reports suggested that RAC increased the rate of non-ambulatory (fatigued and injured) pigs at U.S. packing plants. This led to the addition of a caution statement to the Paylean label, and a series of research studies investigating the effects of RAC on pig welfare. Early research indicated that: (1) regardless of RAC administration, fatigued (non-ambulatory, non-injured) pigs are in a state of metabolic acidosis; (2) aggressive handling increases stress responsiveness at 20 mg/kg RAC, while 5 mg/kg reduces stress responsiveness to aggressive handling. Given this information, dosage range for Paylean was changed in 2006 to 5 to 10 mg/kg in market weight pigs. Subsequent research on RAC demonstrated that: (1) RAC has minimal effects on mortality, lameness, and home pen behavior; (2) RAC fed pigs demonstrated inconsistent prevalence and intensity of aggressive behaviors; (3) RAC fed pigs may be more difficult to handle at doses above 5 mg/kg; and (4) RAC fed pigs may have increased stress responsiveness and higher rates of non-ambulatory pigs when subjected to aggressive handling, especially when 20 mg/kg of RAC is fed.

Goosefish Lophius americanus fecundity and spawning frequency, with implications for population reproductive potential

To improve knowledge of goosefish Lophius americanus' reproductive biology, females were collected during 2009-2012 from the Mid-Atlantic Bight shelf region of the U.S. east coast. Batch fecundity increased with total length (L_T ), from 229 100 to 2 243 300 mature oocytes per female (L_T range: 55·5-112 cm; n = 54). This estimate of fecundity at L_T is lower than one derived from a sample collected during 1982-1985. Examination of whole oocyte diameters in different months indicated that L. americanus is a serial spawner, releasing more than one egg veil per spawning season, as suspected or observed for other Lophius species. Seasonality of spawning was evident from whole oocytes and gonad histology, and from larval fish surveys spanning the U.S. north-east shelf, and confirmed a protracted (c. 6 months) spawning period. Peak spawning activity progressed northward from spring to autumn. The population-level implications of these results were explored by estimating population reproductive potential (P_RP ), which considered the value of both current and future per capita reproduction using decade-specific age structure and fecundity at length. P_RP is now more than 50% lower compared with the historical period (1982-1985), a result of the lower proportions of large females and reduced fecundity across all sizes. Mechanisms that could explain this loss of stock productivity are fishing-induced size-age truncation or regime shifts in egg production caused by changes in energy density of common forage species.

A survey of current practices for genomic sequencing test interpretation and reporting processes in US laboratories

PURPOSE

While the diagnostic success of genomic sequencing expands, the complexity of this testing should not be overlooked. Numerous laboratory processes are required to support the identification, interpretation and reporting of clinically significant variants. This study aimed to examine workflow and reporting procedures among US laboratories to highlight shared practices and identify areas in need of standardization.

METHODS

Surveys and follow-up interviews were conducted with laboratories offering exome and/or genome sequencing, to support a research program or for routine clinical services. The 73-item survey elicited multiple choice and free text responses, later clarified with phone interviews.

RESULTS

Twenty-one laboratories participated. Practices highly concordant across all groups included: consent documentation, multi-person case review, and enabling patient opt-out of incidental or secondary findings analysis. Noted divergence included use of phenotypic data to inform case analysis and interpretation, and reporting of case-specific quality metrics and methods. Few laboratory policies detailed procedures for data reanalysis, data sharing or patient access to data.

CONCLUSION

This study provides an overview of practices and policies of experienced exome and genome sequencing laboratories. The results enable broader consideration of which practices are becoming standard approaches, where divergence remains, and areas development of best practice guidelines may be helpful.

Improved molecular diagnosis of patients with neonatal diabetes using a combined next-generation sequencing and MS-MLPA approach

BACKGROUND

We evaluated a methylation-specific multiplex-ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA) assay for the molecular diagnosis of transient neonatal diabetes mellitus (TNDM) caused by 6q24 abnormalities and assessed the clinical utility of using this assay in combination with next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis for diagnosing patients with neonatal diabetes (NDM).

METHODS

We performed MS-MLPA in 18 control samples and 42 retrospective NDM cases with normal bi-parental inheritance of chromosome 6. Next, we evaluated 22 prospective patients by combining NGS analysis of 11 NDM genes and the MS-MLPA assay.

RESULTS

6q24 aberrations were identified in all controls and in 19% of patients with normal bi-parental inheritance of chromosome 6. The MS-MLPA/NGS combined approach identified a genetic cause in ~64% of patients with NDM of unknown etiology.

CONCLUSIONS

MS-MLPA is a reliable method to identify all known 6q24 abnormalities and comprehensive testing of all causes reveals a causal mutation in ~64% of patients.

Measuring the efficacy of flunixin meglumine and meloxicam for lame sows using a GAITFour pressure mat and an embedded microcomputer-based force plate system

Pain associated with lameness on farm is a negative affective state and has a detrimental impact on individual farm animal welfare. Animal pain can be managed utilizing husbandry tools and through pharmacological approaches. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including meloxicam and flunixin meglumine are compounds used in many species for pain management because they are easy to administer, long lasting, and cost-effective. Assessing an animal's biomechanical parameters using such tools as the embedded microcomputer-based force plate system and GAITFour pressure mat gait analysis walkway system provides an objective, sensitive, and precise means to detect animals in lame states. The objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy of meloxicam and flunixin meglumine for pain mitigation in lame sows using the embedded microcomputer-based force plate system and GAITFour pressure mat gait analysis walkway system. Lameness was induced in 24 mature mixed-parity sows using a chemical synovitis model and compared 3 treatments: meloxicam (1.0 mg/kg per os), flunixin meglumine (2.2 mg/kg intramuscular) and sterile saline (intramuscular). Weight distribution (kg) for each foot was collected twice per second for a total of 5 min for each time point using the embedded microcomputer-based force plate system. Stride time, stride length, maximum pressure, activated sensors, and stance time were collected using 3 quality walks (readings) for each time point using the GAITFour pressure mat gait analysis walkway system. Sows administered flunixin meglumine or meloxicam tolerated more weight on their lame leg compared with saline sows (P < 0.005). Sows administered flunixin meglumine or meloxicam had smaller differences in stance time, maximum pressure, and activated sensors between the sound and lame legs compared with saline-treated sows between 37 and 60 h after lameness induction (P < 0.03). In conclusion, flunixin meglumine and meloxicam administration mitigated pain sensitivity in sows after lameness induction when pain sensitivity was evaluated with the embedded microcomputer-based force plate system and GAITFour pressure mat gait analysis walkway system. Analgesic drugs may be a key tool to manage negative pain affective states associated with lameness.

Reinitiation of mRNA translation in a patient with X-linked infantile spasms with a protein-truncating variant in ARX

Mutations in the Aristaless-related homeobox gene (ARX) lead to a range of X-linked intellectual disability phenotypes, with truncating variants generally resulting in severe X-linked lissencephaly with ambiguous genitalia (XLAG), and polyalanine expansions and missense variants resulting in infantile spasms. We report two male patients with early-onset infantile spasms in whom a novel c.34G>T (p.(E12*)) variant was identified in the ARX gene. A similar variant c.81C>G (p.(Y27*)), has previously been described in two affected cousins with early-onset infantile spasms, leading to reinitiation of ARX mRNA translation resulting in an N-terminal truncated protein. We show that the novel c.34G>T (p.(E12*)) variant also reinitiated mRNA translation at the next AUG codon (c.121-123 (p.M41)), producing the same N-terminally truncated protein. The production of both of these truncated proteins was demonstrated to be at markedly reduced levels using in vitro cell assays. Using luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrate that transcriptional repression capacity of ARX was diminished by both the loss of the N-terminal corepressor octapeptide domain, as a consequence of truncation, and the marked reduction in mutant protein expression. Our study indicates that premature termination mutations very early in ARX lead to reinitiation of translation to produce N-terminally truncated protein at markedly reduced levels of expression. We conclude that even low levels of N-terminally truncated ARX is sufficient to improve the patient's phenotype compared with the severe phenotype of XLAG that includes malformations of the brain and genitalia normally seen in complete loss-of-function mutations in ARX.

Consumption of a high n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid diet during gradual mild physiological stress in rats

n-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3PUFAs) may be beneficial for anxiety and depression under stressful conditions. Studies however, typically utilise physical or sudden physiological stress, while gradual physiological stress is also relevant to human conditions. Using deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) administration to induce gradual physiological stress, this study investigated the impact of n-3PUFAs under gradual physiological stress in rats. Animals (aged 2 months) (N=8-12/group) received daily injections of DOCA or vehicle and were concurrently fed a high n-3PUFA or control diet for eight weeks. Behavioural measures were taken throughout. Behavioural tests and physiological measures were conducted after six and eight weeks respectively. DOCA administration decreased plasma renin, plasma proteins and relative adrenal weight, and increased water intake, relative kidney weight, and anxiety in the open field. These findings demonstrate disruptions to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, a result of mild physiological stress, that also impact on anxiety behaviours. No effects of n-3PUFAs were found.

A novel mutation in the promoter of RARS2 causes pontocerebellar hypoplasia in two siblings

Pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH) is characterized by hypoplasia and atrophy of the cerebellum, variable pontine atrophy, microcephaly, severe mental and motor impairments and seizures. Mutations in 11 genes have been reported in 8 out of 10 forms of PCH. Recessive mutations in the mitochondrial arginyl-transfer RNA synthetase gene (RARS2) have been recently associated with PCH type 6, which is characterized by early-onset encephalopathy with signs of oxidative phosphorylation defect. Here we describe the clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings and molecular characterizations of two siblings with a clinical diagnosis of PCH who displayed a novel variant (c.-2A>G) in the 5'-UTR of the RARS2 gene in the homozygous state. This variant was identified through next-generation sequencing testing of a panel of nine genes known to be involved in PCH. Gene expression and functional studies demonstrated that the c.-2A>G sequence change directly leads to a reduced RARS2 messenger RNA expression in the patients by decreasing RARS2 promoter activity, thus providing evidence that mutations in the RARS2 promoter are likely to represent a new causal mechanism of PCH6.

Evaluation of mechanical and thermal nociception as objective tools to measure painful and nonpainful lameness phases in multiparous sows

The objective of this study was to quantify pain sensitivity differences using mechanical nociception threshold (MNT) and thermal nociception threshold (TNT) tests when sows were in painful and nonpainful transient lameness phases. A total of 24 mixed parity crossbred sows (220.15 ± 21.23 kg) were utilized for the MNT test, and a total of 12 sows (211.41 ± 20.21 kg) were utilized for the TNT test. On induction day (D0), all sows were anesthetized and injected with Amphotericin B (10mg/mL) in the distal interphalangeal joint space in both claws of one randomly selected hind limb to induce transient lameness. Three days were compared: (1) D-1 (sound phase, defined as 1 d before induction), (2) D+1 (most lame phase, defined as 1 d after induction), and (3) D+6 (resolution phase, defined as 6 d after induction). After completion of the first round, sows were given a 7-d rest period and then the procedures were repeated with lameness induced in the contralateral hind limb. During the MNT test, pressure was applied perpendicularly to 3 landmarks in a randomized sequence for each sow: 1) middle of cannon on the hind limb (cannon), 2) 1 cm above the coronary band on the medial hind claw (medial claw), and 3) 1 cm above the coronary band on the lateral hind claw (lateral claw). During the TNT test, a radiant heat stimulus was directed 1 cm above the coronary band. The data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS with sow as the experimental unit. Differences were analyzed between sound and lame limbs on each day. For the MNT test, pressure tolerated by the lame limb decreased for every landmark (P < 0.05) when comparing D-1 and D+1. The sound limb tolerated more pressure on D+1 and D+6 than on baseline D-1 (P < 0.05). Thermal stimulation tolerated by the sound limb did not change over the 3 d (P > 0.05). However, the sows tolerated less heat stimulation on their lame limb on D+1 compared to D-1 levels (P < 0.05). Both MNT and TNT tests indicated greater pain sensitivity thresholds when sows were acutely lame.

Determining the influence of dietary roughage concentration and source on ruminal parameters related to sulfur toxicity

Cattle feedlot diets often include ethanol coproducts that provide excess dietary sulfate, which is reduced to sulfide by ruminal bacteria and can be converted to hydrogen sulfide, which has been correlated to S toxicity. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of feeding varying concentrations of NDF from chopped cornstalks (CS) or chopped bromegrass hay (BH) on ruminal pH, ruminal H2S concentration, and DMI of steers fed a high-S finishing diet. Five ruminally fistulated steers (595 ± 87 kg BW) were used in a 6 × 6 Latin square with 14-d periods and fed diets containing 0.45% S from a mixture of dried distillers grains and condensed corn distillers solubles. The study was a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments with 2 roughage sources--CS or BH--and 3 concentrations of added roughage NDF (rNDF)--4, 7, or 10%. Steers had individual ad libitum access to feed and adapted to each diet for the first 7 d of each period. Effective NDF linearly increased (P < 0.01) as rNDF increased and did not differ between sources (P = 0.44). There was no effect of concentration or source of rNDF on DMI (P ≥ 0.69). Steer behavior was observed on d 13 of each period for 3 h postfeeding. Source of rNDF did not affect time at bunk, DMI during observation, or rate of DMI (P ≥ 0.42). Time at bunk linearly increased as rNDF increased (P = 0.01), while rate of DMI linearly decreased (P = 0.02). Area under the curve for ruminal pH of 5.4, 5.6, and 5.8, calculated using data from d 8 to 14 via an indwelling ruminal bolus, were linearly decreased (P ≤ 0.03) as rNDF increased. Manual ruminal pH taken 6 h postfeeding on d 14 of each period did not differ by source (P = 0.12) but linearly increased (P < 0.01) as rNDF increased. Ruminal H2S concentrations measured 6 h postfeeding on d 14 of each period did not differ by source (P = 0.47) but linearly decreased (P < 0.01) as rNDF increased (0.62, 0.35, 0.31 g/m(3) for 4, 7, and 10% rNDF, respectively). A segmented linear model was found to best fit the ruminal pH and H2S relationship data, suggesting that at or below a pH of 5.6 ± 0.08 with 95% confidence intervals of 5.4 and 5.8, pH is a strong predictor of H2S (P ≤ 0.05), while above this pH range H2S concentrations are not well correlated with ruminal pH (P > 0.50). In conclusion, adding at least 7% NDF from CS or BH to high-S feedlot cattle diets will increase ruminal pH and decrease H2S concentrations, thus decreasing potential for S toxicity.

Clinical utility of next-generation sequencing for the molecular diagnosis of monogenic diabetes

Monogenic diabetes resulting from mutations that primarily reduce insulin-secreting pancreatic β-cell function accounts for 1-2% of all cases of diabetes, and is genetically and clinically heterogeneous. Currently, genetic testing for monogenic diabetes relies on selection of the appropriate gene for analysis based on the availability of comprehensive phenotypic information, which can be time consuming, costly and can limit the differential diagnosis to a few selected genes. In recent years, the exponential growth in the field of high-throughput capture and sequencing technology has made it possible and cost effective to sequence many genes simultaneously, making it an efficient diagnostic tool for clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders such as monogenic diabetes. Making a diagnosis of monogenic diabetes is important as it enables more appropriate treatment, better prediction of disease prognosis and progression, and counseling and screening of family members. We provide a concise overview of the genetic etiology of some forms of monogenic diabetes, as well as a discussion of the clinical utility of genetic testing by comprehensive multigene panel using next-generation sequencing methodologies.

Angiotensinergic and cholinergic receptors of the subfornical organ mediate sodium intake induced by GABAergic activation of the lateral parabrachial nucleus

Bilateral injections of the GABA(A) agonist muscimol into the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) induce 0.3 M NaCl and water intake in satiated and normovolemic rats, a response reduced by intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of losartan or atropine (angiotensinergic type 1 (AT₁) and cholinergic muscarinic receptor antagonists, respectively). In the present study, we investigated the effects of the injections of losartan or atropine into the subfornical organ (SFO) on 0.3M NaCl and water intake induced by injections of muscimol into the LPBN. In addition, using intracellular calcium measurement, we also tested the sensitivity of SFO-cultured cells to angiotensin II (ANG II) and carbachol (cholinergic agonist). In male Holtzman rats with cannulas implanted bilaterally into the LPBN and into the SFO, injections of losartan (1 μg/0.1 μl) or atropine (2 nmol/0.1 μl) into the SFO almost abolished 0.3M NaCl and water intake induced by muscimol (0.5 nmol/0.2 μl) injected into the LPBN. In about 30% of the cultured cells of the SFO, carbachol and ANG II increased intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca²⁺](i)). Three distinct cell populations were found in the SFO, i.e., cells activated by either ANG II (25%) or carbachol (2.6%) or by both stimuli (2.3%). The results suggest that the activation of angiotensinergic and cholinergic mechanisms in the SFO is important for NaCl and water intake induced by the deactivation of LPBN inhibitory mechanisms with muscimol injections. They also show that there are cells in the SFO activated by both angiotensinergic and cholinergic stimuli, perhaps those involved in the responses to muscimol into the LPBN.

Development and refinement of a technique for short-term intravascular auricular vein catheter placement in mature sows

Intravenous drug administration in adult swine is difficult to perform due to inaccessible superficial veins and thick subcutaneous fat layers. However, successful intravenous drug administration is critical for many biomedical applications including pharmacokinetic studies as extravascular drug administration can influence the drug’s absorption and elimination rate. The purpose of this study was to develop and refine an effective technique for indwelling auricular vein catheter placement in the conscious mature sow. We developed a protocol using a topical anesthetic cream and minimal physical restraint to place indwelling catheters in the auricular vein of six multiparous sows. This method was quick (3 min 20 s ± 8 s [mean ± SE per catheter]), effective (11/12 catheters successfully placed) and reliable, allowing a large drug volume (20–22 mL) to be administrated successfully during the trial without relying on prolonged restraint or general anesthesia of the sow.

Validation of a lameness model in sows using physiological and mechanical measurements

The objective of this study was to develop a validated, transient, chemically induced lameness model in sows using subjective and objective lameness detection tools. Experiment 1 determined an effective joint injection technique based on volume and placement of dye using feet collected from 9 finisher pigs and 10 multiparity cull sow carcasses. Experiment 2 confirmed the injection technique in live animals and produced a transient clinical lameness in 4 anesthetized sows injected with amphotericin B (15 mg/mL) in the distal interphalangeal joints of the claw. Clinical lameness was assessed by a categorical lameness scoring system, and a postmortem visual confirmation of joint injection technique was obtained. In Exp. 3, 6 sows were injected with 0, 10, or 15 mg/mL amphotericin B in either the left or right hind foot and were monitored until clinical resolution. Treated sows demonstrated elevated clinical lameness scores. These changes resolved by 7 d after lameness induction. Control sows injected with sterile saline developed a clinical lameness score of 0.5, which resolved 72 h post injection. In Exp. 4, 36 sows were injected with 10 mg/mL amphotericin B in 1 of 4 injection sites (left front claws, right front claws, left rear claws, and right rear claws). All injected sows exhibited a decrease in maximum pressure, stance time, and number of sensors activated on the GaitFour (P < 0.05) sensor system. A static force plate also demonstrated a decrease in weight (kg) being placed on the injected foot when all feet were injected (P ≤ 0.05). Injection of amphotericin B induced a predictable acute lameness that resolved spontaneously and is an effective method to model lameness in sows.

Altered ADAR 2 equilibrium and 5HT(2C) R editing in the prefrontal cortex of ADAR 2 transgenic mice

Modulation of serotonin signaling by RNA editing of the serotonin 2C receptor (5HT(2C) R) may be relevant to affective disorder as serotonin functions regulate mood and behavior. Previously, we observed enhanced endogenous behavioral despair in ADAR2 transgenic mice. As the transcript of the 5HT(2C) R is a substrate of ADAR2, we hypothesized that perturbed ADAR2 equilibrium in the prefrontal cortex of ADAR2 transgenic mice alters the normal distribution of edited amino acid isoforms of the 5HT(2C) R and modifies the receptor function in downstream basal extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. We examined groups of naive control and ADAR2 transgenic mice and found significantly increased ADAR2 expression, increased RNA editing at A, C, D and E sites and significantly altered normal distribution of edited amino acid isoforms of the 5HT(2C) R with increased proportions of valine asparagine valine, valine serine valine, valine asparagine isoleucine, isoleucine asparagine valine and decreased isoleucine asparagine isoleucine amino acid isoforms of the 5HT(2C) R in ADAR2 transgenic mice. Localized serotonin levels (5-HT) were unchanged and perturbed ADAR2 equilibrium coincides with dysregulated edited amino acid isoforms of the 5HT(2C) R and reduced basal ERK signaling. These results altogether suggest that altered 5HT(2C) R function could be contributing to enhanced depression-like behavior of ADAR2 transgenic mice and further implicate ADAR2 as a contributing factor in cases of affective disorder.

The effect of selection for residual feed intake on general behavioral activity and the occurrence of lesions in Yorkshire gilts

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of selection for improved residual feed intake on behavior, activity, and lesion scores in gilts in their home pen. A total of 192 gilts were used, 96 from a line that had been selected for decreased residual feed intake over 5 generations (LRFI) and 96 from a randomly bred control line. Gilts were housed in 12 pens (16 gilts/pen; 0.82 m(2)/gilt) containing 8 gilts from each line in a conventional grow-finish unit. Twelve hours of video footage were collected on the day of placement and then every 4 wk for 3 more observational periods. Video was scored using a 10-min instantaneous scan sampling technique for 4 postures (standing, lying, sitting, and locomotion) and 1 behavior (at drinker). Categories of active (standing, locomotion, and at drinker) and inactive (sitting and lying) were also created. Lesion scores were collected 24 h after behavior collection had begun. The body of a gilt was divided into 4 regions, with each region receiving a score of 0 (0 lesions) to 3 (5+ lesions). All statistical analyses used Proc Mixed of SAS. Data were analyzed separately for the day of placement and the subsequent 3 rounds. General activity was summarized on a percentage basis by each posture and behavior and subjected to an arcsine square root transformation to normalize data and stabilize variance. Analysis was performed on each behavior and posture. Lesion scores for each region of the body were analyzed as repeated measures. There were no differences (P > 0.05) between genetic lines for all postures and the behavior at drinker on the day of placement. However, over subsequent rounds it was observed that LRFI gilts spent less (P = 0.03) time standing, more time sitting (P = 0.05), and were less active (P = 0.03) overall. Gilts from the LRFI line had decreased (P < 0.045) lesion scores on the day after placement. However, over subsequent rounds there were no (P > 0.05) differences between the genetic lines. In conclusion, on the day of placement there were no postural, behavior, or general activity differences between genetic lines, but LRFI gilts had decreased lesion scores. Behavioral differences were observed between genetic lines over subsequent rounds, with LRFI gilts becoming less active, but there were no differences in lesion scores.

Performance and carcass characteristics of finishing beef cattle managed in a bedded hoop-barn system

The use of bedded hoop barns in finishing systems for beef cattle has not been widely researched. In this management system, beef cattle are confined to hoop barns throughout finishing, and bedding is used to absorb animal waste, which results in minimal effluent. The objective of this study was to compare the performance and carcass characteristics of finishing beef steers (n = 1,428) managed in a bedded hoop-barn management system vs. an open-feedlot system with shelter. Six feeding trials were conducted over a 3-yr period. Three trials were conducted during summer-fall and 3 trials were conducted during winter-spring. Crossbred steers were allotted to 3 pens in the hoop-barn system and to 3 pens in the open-lot system (approximately 40 steers per pen in both facility systems). Stocking densities for the steers were 4.65 m(2) per steer in the hoop-barn system and 14.7 m(2) per steer in the open-lot system. The steers were begun on trial weighing 410 and 411 kg (SD = 21), were fed for 102.3 and 103.0 d (SD = 3.8), and were weighed off test at 595 and 602 kg (SD = 21) for the hoop-barn and open-lot systems, respectively. Steer performance measures consisted of ADG, DMI, and G:F. Carcass characteristics were HCW, fat thickness, LM area, KPH percentage, marbling score, USDA yield grade, and USDA quality grade. No year, season, or pen (management system) main effects, or season x management system and year x management system interactions were observed for any of the items measured related to cattle performance or carcass characteristics (P > 0.05). Final mud scores (a subjective evaluation of the amount of soil and manure adhering to the hair coat of the animals) were greater for the steers from the open-lot system compared with those from the hoop-barn system (P < 0.02), suggesting steers in the hoop-barn system carried less mud than steers from the open-lot system. Average daily cornstalk bedding use in the hoop-barn system was 2.3 kg/steer during summer-fall and 2.6 kg/steer during winter-spring. The performance of finishing cattle managed in a hoop-barn system was not different from the performance of cattle managed in an open-feedlot system with shelter during summer and winter. Managing beef cattle in hoop barns required more bedding but resulted in decreased mud scores compared with cattle managed in an open-lot system with shelter. Hoop barns are a viable alternative housing management system for finishing beef cattle.

Drinking behavior in nursery pigs: determining the accuracy between an automatic water meter versus human observers

Assimilating accurate behavioral events over a long period can be labor-intensive and relatively expensive. If an automatic device could accurately record the duration and frequency for a given behavioral event, it would be a valuable alternative to the traditional use of human observers for behavioral studies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the accuracy in the time spent at the waterer and the number of visits to the waterer by individually housed nursery pigs between human observers scoring video files using Observer software (OBS) and an automatic water meter Hobo (WM, control) affixed onto the waterline. Eleven PIC USA genotype gilts (22 +/- 2 d of age; 6.5 +/- 1.4 kg of BW) were housed individually in pens with ad libitum access to a corn-based starter ration and one nipple waterer. Behavior was collected on d 0 (day of weaning), 7, and 14 of the trial using 1 color camera positioned over 4 attached pens and a RECO-204 DVR at 1 frame per second. For the OBS method, 2 experienced observers recorded drinking behavior from the video files, which was defined as when the gilt placed her mouth over the nipple waterer. Data were analyzed using nonparametric methods and the general linear model and regression procedures in SAS. The experimental unit was the individual pen housing 1 gilt. The GLM model included the method of observation (WM vs. OBS) and time (24 h) as variables, and the gilt nested within method was used as the error term. Gilts consumed more water (P = 0.04) on d 14 than on d 0. The time of day affected (P < 0.001) the number of visits and the time spent at the waterer regardless of the method. However, the OBS method underestimated (P < 0.001) the number of visits to the waterer (3.48 +/- 0.33 visits/h for OBS vs. 4.94 +/- 0.33 for WM) and overestimated (P < 0.001) the time spent at the waterer (22.6 +/- 1.46 s/h for OBS vs. 13.9 +/- 1.43 for WM) compared with WM. The relationship between the 2 methods for prediction of time spent at the waterer and number of visits made by the gilts was weak (R(2) = 0.56 and 0.69, respectively). Collectively, these data indicate that the use of the traditional OBS method for quantifying drinking behavior in pigs can be misleading. Quantifying drinking behavior and perhaps other behavioral events via the OBS method must be more accurately validated.

ASAS centennial paper: Farm animal welfare science in the United States

Compared with the more traditional sciences of nutrition, physiology, and reproduction, the acceptance of animal welfare science in its own right is still relatively new. Seven colleagues, who had an average of 10 yr experience with beef (n = 5), swine (n = 5), dairy (n = 2), poultry (n = 1), and sheep (n = 1) were asked several questions on the opportunities and challenges facing the field. The information collected was pooled for anonymity. General challenges identified by the group were (1) are we making progress and how can this be defined, (2) demand for information has outpaced the science, and (3) pressures from stakeholders. Solutions were (1) to continue providing sound science that has been validated, measured objectively, and is reliable; and (2) to continue to have animal science and veterinary medicine departments employ faculty trained in farm animal welfare. Highlights for the future were willingness for animal welfare scientists to work across disciplines and across departments, within the same institution, and enthusiastically across state lines, and expansion of new teaching models. In conclusion, new and innovative tools, personalities, and dedication to the field of animal welfare will continue to provide scientific information and direction for farm animal welfare science.

Factors associated with fatigued, injured, and dead pig frequency during transport and lairage at a commercial abattoir

The objective of this study was to identify environmental and management factors that are associated with the frequency of fatigued, injured, and dead pigs on arrival and in resting pens during lairage at a commercial Midwest abattoir. The terms transport losses or total losses refer to pigs that die or become nonambulatory at any stage of the marketing process. In this study, fatigued, injured, and dead pigs were summed into a variable termed total losses. Relative humidity (%), temperature ( degrees C), wind speed (m/s), and dew point ( degrees C) data were collected on 12,333 trailer loads of pigs. Week, sort from barn (first or third pig removal from barn), farm, normal vs. split load type (from 1 or multiple barns), load crew, driver, trailer, and wind direction were used as fixed effects in the model for the analysis of losses per load using generalized mixed models for Poisson distributions. Seven temperature-humidity indices (THI) were calculated and compared as model covariates. Load time per pig, trailer density (pigs per trailer x average BW/trailer space; kg/m(2)), wait time before unloading at the abattoir, and wind speed were used as model covariates. The log of the number of hogs per trailer was used to standardize the response variable. The linear covariate density accounted for the greatest portion of variance (based on F-value) followed by the fixed effect sort from barn, the fixed effect load type (pigs from 1 or multiple barns within a farm), load time per pig linear covariate, and THI. Pigs transported to the abattoir from June through July experienced fewer losses (P < 0.001) when compared with pigs that were transported from November through December. Keeping other factors constant, the log of total losses (%) per load increased by 0.0102x + 0.000541x(2) per unit of THI and 0.0191 kg/m(2) of density. Similarly, of 9 farms, the poorest-performing farm in regards to total loss percentage experienced 0.93% more losses per load when compared with the farm with the least loss percentage. This study demonstrates that multiple environment and management factors influence the incidence of market hog transport losses.

Sex differences in angiotensin II- induced hypertension

Sex differences in the development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease have been described in humans and in animal models. In this paper we will review some of our studies which have as their emphasis the examination of the role of sex differences and sex steroids in modulating the central actions of angiotensin II (ANG II) via interactions with free radicals and nitric oxide, generating pathways within brain circumventricular organs and in central sympathomodulatory systems. Our studies indicate that low-dose infusions of ANG II result in hypertension in wild-type male mice but not in intact wild-type females. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that ANG II-induced hypertension in males is blocked by central infusions of the androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide, and by central infusions of the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tempol. We have also found that, in comparison to females, males show greater levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species in circumventricular organ neurons following long-term ANG II infusions. In female mice, ovariectomy, central blockade of estrogen receptors or total knockout of estrogen a receptors augments the pressor effects of ANG II. Finally, in females but not in males, central blockade of nitric oxide synthase increases the pressor effects of ANG II. Taken together, these results suggest that sex differences and estrogen and testosterone play important roles in the development of ANG II-induced hypertension.

Multitiered health assessment of Atlantic menhaden in the Pamlico River, North Carolina

During the fall of 2001 and 2002, Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus were collected from several creeks in the Pamlico River, North Carolina, to investigate recent fish kills and ulcerative skin lesions. High skin lesion prevalence (>50%) was associated with the Atlantic menhaden kills in fall 2001, whereas there were no fish kills in fall 2002 and skin lesion prevalence was lower (< or =50%). Indicators of tissue damage (histopathological analyses of gills, heart, liver, intestine, and anterior kidney), body condition (liver somatic index), and immune status (transforming growth factor-beta [TGF-beta] messenger RNA [mRNA] production, hematology, plasma chemistry, and splenosomatic index) were compared between Atlantic menhaden with and without ulcerative skin lesions in fall. Atlantic menhaden with ulcerative skin lesions had significantly higher liver somatic indices, neutrophil and monocyte percentages, and splenic mononuclear cell TGF-beta mRNA levels than did fish without lesions. Hematocrit values, plasma protein, and Ca concentrations were significantly lower in fish with ulcerative skin lesions than in those without. The indicators used in this study at multiple levels of biological organization have provided valuable baseline data for understanding the health status of lesioned and nonlesioned Atlantic menhaden in the Pamlico River.

Dietary inclusion of colicin e1 is effective in preventing postweaning diarrhea caused by F18-positive Escherichia coli in pigs

With worldwide concern over the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture and their contribution to the spread of antibiotic resistance, alternatives to conventional antibiotics are needed. Previous research in our laboratories has shown that colicin E1 is effective against some Escherichia coli strains responsible for postweaning diarrhea (PWD) in vitro. In this study we examined the efficacy of the dietary inclusion of colicin E1 in preventing experimentally induced PWD caused by F18-positive enterotoxigenic E. coli in young pigs. Twenty-four weaned pigs (23 days of age), identified by genotyping to be susceptible to F18-positive E. coli infections, were individually housed and fed diets containing 0, 11, or 16.5 mg colicin E1/kg diet. Two days after the start of the trial, all animals were orally inoculated with 1 x 10(9) CFU of each of two F18-positive E. coli strains isolated from pigs with PWD. The dietary inclusion of colicin E1 decreased the incidence and severity of PWD caused by F18-positive enterotoxigenic E. coli and improved the growth performance of the piglets. Additionally, the reduced incidence of PWD due to dietary colicin E1, lowered the levels of expression of the genes for interleukin 1beta and tumor necrosis factor beta in ileal tissues from these animals. The dietary inclusion of colicin E1 may be an effective alternative to conventional antibiotics in the diets of weaning pigs for the prevention of PWD caused by F18-positive enterotoxigenic E. coli.

5-HT2 and 5-HT3 receptors in the lateral parabrachial nucleus mediate opposite effects on sodium intake

The present study investigated the role of several 5-HT receptor subtypes in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) in the control of sodium appetite (i.e. NaCl consumption). Male Holtzman rats had cannulas implanted bilaterally into the LPBN for the injection of 5-HT receptor agonists and antagonists in conjunction with either acute fluid depletion or 24-h sodium depletion. Following these treatments, access to 0.3 M NaCl was provided and the intakes of saline and water were measured for the next 2 h. Bilateral injections of the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, ketanserin or the 5-HT2C receptor antagonist, mianserin into the LPBN increased 0.3 M NaCl intake without affecting water intake induced by acute fluid-depletion. Bilateral injections of the 5-HT2B receptor agonist, BW723C86 hydrochloride, had no effect on 0.3 M NaCl or water intake under these conditions. Treatment of the LPBN with the 5-HT2B/2C receptor agonist, 2-(2-methyl-4-clorophenoxy) propanoic acid (mCPP) caused dose-related reductions in 0.3 M NaCl intake after 24 h sodium depletion. The effects of mCPP were prevented by pretreating the LPBN with the 5-HT2B/2C receptor antagonist, SDZSER082. Activation of 5-HT3 receptors by the receptor agonist, 1-phenylbiguanide (PBG) caused dose-related increases in 0.3 M NaCl intake. Pretreatment of the LPBN with the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, 1-methyl-N-[8-methyl-8-azabicyclo (3.2.1)-oct-3-yl]-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide (LY-278,584) abolished the effects of PBG, but LY-278,584 had no effects on sodium or water intake when injected by itself. PBG injected into the LPBN did not alter intake of palatable 0.06 M sucrose in fluid replete rats. The results suggest that activation of the 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptor subtypes inhibits sodium ingestion. In contrast, activation of the 5-HT3 receptor subtype increases sodium ingestion. Therefore, multiple serotonergic receptor subtypes in the LPBN are implicated in the control of sodium intake, sometimes by mediating opposite effects of 5-HT. The results provide new information concerning the control of sodium intake by LPBN mechanisms.

Sadness and broken hearts: neurohumoral mechanisms and co-morbidity of ischemic heart disease and psychological depression

Heart disease and depression are highly co-morbid. Clinical and experimental research over the past 70 years has led to several neurohumoral hypotheses of causative factors present under the conditions of either heart failure or of psychological depression. Some of these hypothesized factors are common to both disorders and are therefore attractive candidates to account for the high incidence of co-occurrence of depression and heart disease. One experimental approach to study the co-morbidity of heart failure and depression has been to study the behavioral, biochemical and physiological changes in a chronic mild stress model of depression and in heart failure induced by experimental myocardial infarction. Our studies have led us to focus on the pro-inflammatory cytokines, in particular tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Both of these families of humoral factors are elevated in human heart failure and in depression and the two experimental models we have studied. The demonstrated validity of each of these models will be of great value in elucidating the nature of the actions and interactions of these humoral agents as they contribute to the co-morbid conditions of heart failure and depression.

Application of broken-line analysis to assess floor space requirements of nursery and grower-finisher pigs expressed on an allometric basis1

Few issues in swine production are as complex as floor space allowances. One method for pork producers to calculate floor space allowance (A) is to convert BW into a 2-dimensional concept yielding an expression of A = k * BW(0.667). Data on ADG, ADFI, and G:F were obtained from published peer-reviewed studies. Five data sets were created: A = grower-finisher pigs, fully slatted floors, and consistent group size; B = grower-finisher pigs and fully slatted floors (group size did not need to be consistent); C = grower-finisher pigs, partially slatted floors, and consistent group size; D = grower-finisher pigs, partially slatted floors (group size did not need to be consistent); and E = nursery pigs, fully slatted or woven wire floors (group size did not need to be consistent). Each data set was analyzed using a broken-line analysis and a linear regression. For the broken-line analyses, the critical k value, below which a decrease in ADG occurred, varied from 0.0317 to 0.0348. In all cases the effect of space allowance on ADG was significant (P < 0.05). Using the linear analyses based on data with k values of < 0.030, the critical k values for the 4 grower-finisher data sets did not differ from those obtained using the broken-line analysis (0.0358 vs. 0.0336, respectively; P > 0.10); however, none of the linear regressions explained a significant proportion of the variation in ADG. The slopes for the nonplateau portion of the broken-line analyses based on percent values varied among data sets. For every 0.001 decrease in k (approximately 3% of the critical k value), ADG decreased by 0.56 to 1.41%, with an average value of 0.98% for the 5%-based analyses. The use of an allometric approach to express space allowance and broken-line analysis to establish space requirements seem to be useful tools for pig production. The critical k value at which crowding becomes detrimental to the growth of the pig is similar in full- and partial-slat systems and in nursery and grower-finisher stages. The critical point for crowding determined in these analyses approximated current recommendations to ensure the welfare of pigs.

A quantitative real-time RT-PCR assay to measure TGF-beta mRNA and its correlation with hematologic, plasma chemistry and organo-somatic indices responses in triamcinolone-treated Atlantic menhaden, Brevoortia tyrannus

A quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was developed to measure transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) in Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus), an estuarine-dependent species plagued by ulcerative skin lesions in the estuaries along the eastern United States. Atlantic menhaden were acclimated in a closed system for two weeks prior to initiation of the study. The synthetic glucocorticoid, triamcinolone acetonide (10mg/kg body weight) was administered by intracoelomic injection and its effect on the splenic mononuclear cell TGF-beta mRNA transcription, liver-somatic index, spleno-somatic index, hematology, and plasma chemistry were compared to untreated fish at 48 and 96h post-treatment. Triamcinolone-treated Atlantic menhaden showed suppression of TGF-beta mRNA production, neutrophilia, monocytosis, lymphopenia, and an increase in blood glucose concentrations. The health indices used in this study may help us interpret some of the changes observed during the development of ulcerative skin lesions in wild-caught menhaden.

Environmental Prevalence and Persistence ofSalmonellaspp. in Outdoor Swine Wallows

Swine can harbor Salmonella in their gastrointestinal tracts. It has been estimated that up to 48% of the U.S. swine herd may carry Salmonella. Housing sows in farrowing stalls has become controversial due to animal welfare-based criticisms. An alternative production system is to keep sows outdoors on pasture with access to individual farrowing huts. This study was designed to determine the effects of two production systems on indicator bacteria and Salmonella of sows housed indoors in farrowing stalls (n = 52) compared to sows housed outdoors (n = 52) in English style huts. Each farrowing radial contained one wallow, from which mud (n = 290) and water (n = 290) samples were collected weekly. All samples were analyzed for generic E. coli, coliforms and Salmonella. No differences (p > 0.05) were detected in Salmonella, generic E. coli and coliform populations between indoor farrowing stalls and outdoor farrowing huts. However, all 8 outdoor wallows contained Salmonella spp. at some point during the study (n = 49 Salmonella isolates). Salmonella genotypes persisted within some wallows for >5 months, and genetically indistinguishable Salmonella isolates were found in multiple wallows. Salmonella isolated from outdoor sow feces were genetically indistinguishable by PFGE from Salmonella isolated from wallows (n = 33) throughout the study, indicating that pathogenic bacteria were cycling between swine and their environment. In conclusion, the role of wallows in disseminating Salmonella within an outdoor swine herd appears to be significant.

Effect of water sprinkling on incidence of zoonotic pathogens in feedlot cattle1

Heat stress and dusty conditions are common challenges for cattle during the summer, and a typical method of alleviating these problems involves sprinkling cattle and pens with water. The effect of sprinkling water on the incidence of zoonotic pathogens has not been previously studied. Four pens of heifers (n = 41) were cooled using sprinklers, and four pens (n = 43) served as controls. Heifers were crossbred Charolais, with white and red hair coats. Sprinkling was initiated when cattle were on full concentrate feed (July). Fecal samples, hide swipes, and BW were collected on d 0, 28, 63, 95, and 98. Average daily gain, DMI, and G:F were calculated, and carcass traits were collected 36 h after processing. Performance data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design, and zoonotic pathogen data were analyzed using chi2 analysis. Sprinkling tended (P = 0.054) to increase the incidence of fecal Salmonella spp. populations on d 98, but simultaneously tended to decrease (P = 0.058) the Escherichia coli O157:H7 incidence on hides on d 98. The most prevalent Salmonella serovars in this study were Kentucky, Muenster, Meleagridis, and Cerro. Performance measures and carcass traits did not differ between treatments (P > 0.10). Under our conditions, sprinkling cattle with water did not affect the incidence of zoonotic pathogens in feces or on hides.

Fender design and insulation of farrowing huts: effects on performance of outdoor sows and piglets

Two studies assessed sow and litter performance when design features of farrowing huts varied. A fender is a structure that extends out the front of the hut to create a veranda that prevents young piglets from leaving. In Exp. 1, 206 lactating sows and their litters were used to assess litter performance and the time required to process litters for two fender designs (short wooden [WS] vs. tall metal with a board front [MT-b]) and insulation status (insulated [IN] vs. uninsulated [UN]) farrowing huts. A significant fender x insulation interaction was observed for total litter weaning weight. Lighter litters weaned (P = 0.013) from WS fenders with UN huts compared with the other treatments. Fender design did not (P > 0.05) influence the time required to process a litter with one stockperson. Less total time (P = 0.001) was required to process a litter when two people were present (10.60 +/- 0.74 min) compared with one stockperson (14.52 +/- 0.74 min). There were no (P > 0.05) differences between IN and UN huts for temperature and relative humidity measurements. In Exp. 2, 331 lactating sows and their litters were used to determine sow and litter performance when using one of two fender front designs (boards [MT-b] vs. roller [MT-r]). The front design of the fender did not influence (P > 0.05) most litter performance measures. We conclude that fender design, fender fronts, and insulation effects did not have large influences on sow and litter performance in a West Texas environment.

Effects of the transportation of beef cattle from the feedyard to the packing plant on prevalence levels of Escherichia coli O157 and Salmonella spp

Two hundred steers and heifers from a large feedyard (65,000-head capacity) were used to determine the prevalence levels of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157 (EHEC O157) and Salmonella spp. prior to and after shipping to a commercial packing facility. Two samples, a ventral midline hide swab and a fecal sample, were aseptically collected from each animal 2 weeks prior to the date of transportation and at the packing plant immediately after exsanguination. Samples were collected from all trailers (n = 46) before animals were loaded for transport to the packing facility. The average prevalence levels of EHEC O157 on hides (18%) and in feces (9.5%) at the feedyard decreased (P > 0.05) at the packing plant to 4.5 and 5.5%, respectively. The average prevalence levels of Salmonella spp. on hides (6%) and in feces (18%) at the feedyard increased to 89 and 46%, respectively, upon arrival at the packing plant. Average prevalence levels for EHEC O157 and Salmonella spp. on the trailers were 5.43 and 59%, respectively. The results of this study demonstrate that transportation may be a potential stressor for cattle, as evidenced by the increased shedding of Salmonella spp.