Are turkey hens affected by light flicker? Effects on performance and health

Light flicker is a commonly overlooked factor of artificial light sources. This study aimed to determine the impacts of light-flicker frequency on performance, general health, and mortality of 11-wk Nicholas Select turkey hens. The experiment consisted of 2 trials (block) in a randomized complete block design, with 3 light-flicker frequency treatments (30, 90, or 195 Hz). Turkeys (n = 364 per replicate) were randomly placed into environmentally controlled rooms (3 room replicates per treatment per trial). Group body weight (BW) and feed consumption were measured at 0, 4, 8, and 11 wk, and feed efficiency (mortality corrected feed-to-gain; F:Gm) was calculated for each period. Mortality and culls were collected twice daily. Flock uniformity, feather condition and cleanliness, footpad score, and mobility were evaluated at 10 wk (30 birds per room). Litter quality and ocular weight and dimensions were evaluated (11 wk; 4 birds per room). Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4) and significance was declared when P < 0.05. At 8 wk, BW was lower under 30 Hz compared to 195 Hz (P = 0.03). Feed consumption was lowest under 30 Hz (0-4 wk and 4-8 wk; P < 0.01). Mortality-corrected F:G was improved under 30 Hz for 8 to 11 wk and 0 to 11 wk (P = 0.05 and P = 0.04, respectively). Total mortality was lower under 195 Hz compared to 30 Hz (P = 0.02). Uniformity, gait score, feather condition, and litter quality were unaffected by flicker. Footpad scores were improved under 90 Hz (P = 0.01), leading to an improved average footpad score (P = 0.02). Feather cleanliness was improved under 90 Hz compared to both 30 Hz and 195 Hz (P<0.01). Right eyeball dimensions differed across lighting treatments, with the dorso-ventral diameter being larger in birds under 30 Hz compared to 195 Hz (P = 0.05). The anterior-posterior size also increased in birds under 30 Hz compared to 90 Hz (P = 0.03). Light flicker impacted turkey hens, with the results demonstrating negative impacts on early growth and changes to ocular characteristics.

How does visible light flicker impact laying hen pullet behavior, fear, and stress levels?

Many characteristics of artificial light have been evaluated; however, light-flicker frequency (F) has not been assessed extensively in poultry. Pullets (1,344 per strain [S]; Lohmann Brown-Lite [LB] and LSL-Lite [LW]) were placed into 8 light-tight rooms, containing 6 floor pens (15 pen replicates per F × S for 30 and 250 Hz; 18 pen replicates per F x S for 90 Hz), and assigned 1 of 3 F treatments (30, 90, 250 Hz). The experiment took place over 2 trials (blocks). To evaluate long-term effects of F during rearing, birds were followed through the hen phase. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4). Differences were considered significant when P ≤ 0.05, and behaviors are expressed as percentage of time. Pullets reared under 30 Hz spent more time performing nutritive behaviors (P < 0.01) and as "unidentified" (P = 0.02) than other treatments. Active behavior demonstrated an age x F interaction, with pullets being more active at 16 wk, regardless of F (P < 0.01). Comfort behaviors were higher at 16 wk compared to other ages, regardless of F (P < 0.01). Exploratory behaviors were lowest at 4 wk in pullets under 30 Hz (P < 0.01). Aggressive behaviors (12 wk) were higher in pullets reared under 250 Hz than those under 90 Hz (P < 0.01). Comb score was unaffected by F (P = 0.79) and all birds scored had a full plumage. Heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was unaffected by F at 7 or 15 wk (P = 0.85 and P = 0.54, respectively). In trial 1, pullets reared under 90 Hz had higher corticosterone concentrations than those reared under 250 Hz (P = 0.02) and trial 2 there were no effects of F (P = 0.97). For novel object test, LW pullets reared under 90 Hz had a higher latency to peck than LW pullets under 30 Hz or 250 Hz (P = 0.03). Hen behavior (wk 39) and fear tests (36 wk; novel object test (P = 0.86) and tonic immobility (P = 0.37)) were unaffected by F. Overall, minimal effects of F were seen on pullet and hen behavior and stress.

Do flickering lights impact turkey hen behavior, stress, and fear?

Little is known about the effect of light-flicker frequency on poultry, particularly on turkeys. This experiment examined the impact of light-flicker frequency on the behavior, stress, and fear response of Nicholas Select turkey hens reared to 11 wk. The experiment was a randomized complete block design (2 trials), with a one-way factorial analysis evaluating 3 light-flicker frequencies (30, 90, or 195 Hertz; Hz). Birds (n = 3,276 per trial) were housed in 9 individual environmentally controlled rooms (3 replicates per treatment per trial). Data collected included: behavior (4, 8, and 10 wk), incidence of aggressive damage, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and novel object test (daily d 1-7 and at 4, 8, and 11 wk). Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4), with significance declared at P ≤ 0.05. Behavior data are presented as the percentage of time spent performing the behavior. At 4 wk, gentle feather pecking and exploratory behaviors were higher under 195 Hz compared to 30 Hz (P = 0.04 and P = 0.05, respectively). Preening was higher under 90 Hz compared to 30 Hz (P = 0.05). At 8 wk, wing flapping was lowest under 195 Hz (P < 0.01). Gentle feather pecking was higher under 90 and 195 Hz compared to 30 Hz (P = 0.02). Fighting (P = 0.05), aggressive pecking (P = 0.02), and aggressive behaviors (P = 0.01) were lower under 30 Hz compared to 90 Hz. At 10 wk, preening was decreased under 30 Hz (P = 0.03). Incidences of aggressive damage were reduced under 30 Hz compared to 90 Hz (0 d-4 wk; P = 0.01) and under 30 compared to both 90 and 195 Hz (4-8 wk; P = 0.01). At 11 wk, heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratios were lowest under 30 Hz (P = 0.04). The novel object test was unaffected by flicker treatment. In conclusion, many behaviors and the stress and fear responses were unaffected by either visible or non-visible flicker. However, visible flicker (30 Hz) reduced some comfort and exploratory behaviors early in life, and the impact on preening continued to older ages, suggesting minor negative impacts of flicker, particularly early in life.

Do flickering LED lights reduce productivity of layer pullets and hens?

Most characteristics of artificial light sources are well studied, however light-flicker frequency (F) has been overlooked. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of F on performance of Lohmann LSL-Lite (LW) pullets and Lohmann Brown-Lite (LB) pullets. In addition, pullets were followed through to the laying phase to evaluate long-term effects of F during rearing on productivity. Two trials were conducted with 3 F (30, 90, or 250 Hz) treatments. LW and LB pullets (n = 2,688 per strain [S]) were randomly assigned to floor pens within 8 light-tight rooms (15 pen replicates per F × S for 30 and 250 Hz; 18 pen replicates per F × S for 90 Hz). At 16 wk, pullets were transferred to conventional layer cages, with no flicker treatment applied. Pullet data collected included BW, feed disappearance, flock uniformity, and overall mortality. Hen data collected included BW, feed intake (feed efficiency calculated), mortality, egg production, and egg quality. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4) and differences were considered significant when P ≤ 0.05. Frequency did not affect pullet uniformity or feed disappearance (0-8 wk and 0-16 wk). Pullets reared under 30 Hz had higher mortality (caused by "other") than those reared under 250 Hz. Lohmann Brown-Lite pullets reared under 30 Hz had the highest feed disappearance. Overall mortality was higher for LW pullets reared under 30 Hz compared to LB reared under 30 Hz or 250 Hz. Lohmann Brown-Lite hens reared under 30 Hz were heavier at the beginning of the hen phase (17 wk), however differences related to F were not seen at 40 or 48 wk. Hen day production (%) was higher for hens reared under 30 compared to 90 Hz (P = 0.03), however no other egg parameters were affected by F. Hen feed efficiency and mortality were unaffected by F. These results indicate minor effects of F, during either the pullet or hen phases. The data also suggest that S (LW vs. LB) may affect response to F.

Light wavelength and its impact on broiler health

Light is a powerful management tool in poultry production systems, affecting productivity, physiology, and behavior. The objective of this study was to understand the impacts of three light colors (blue, green, or white) on broiler health. Broilers (N = 14,256) were raised in floor pens with fresh litter from 0 to 35 d in 9 rooms (2 blocked trials). Additionally, 2 genotypes (Ross YPMx708 and EPMx708) and sex were studied (6 room replications per lighting treatment and 18 pen replicates per sex × genotype × lighting program). Blood samples and tissue samples from the retina and the pineal gland were collected from birds (16-18 d of age) 9 times in one 24-hr period per trial, then analyzed to determine melatonin levels (pg/mL). Mobility was assessed via gait scoring, using a 0 to 5 scale at 31 to 32 d of age. Footpad dermatitis was assessed using a 0 to 4 scale, and litter quality by a subjective scoring system (scores ranging from 0-4). Mortality and morbidity causes were identified through necropsies performed by pathologists. Data were analyzed as a 3 × 2 × 2 factorial design, with trial as a random variable block and lighting treatment nested within rooms (MIXED procedure, SAS). Birds raised under blue light had lower serum melatonin levels during one time-point during the scotophase, but no other differences were noted. No effect of light color was observed for melatonin produced in the tissues, nor mobility and footpad dermatitis. An interaction was noted for litter quality where a higher percentage of pens housing YPM-708 broilers had litter categorized into dry, but not easily moved with the foot (category 1). Males had higher incidence of infectious and metabolic deaths than females. Interactions were observed between light and sex, where males raised under white light had a higher incidence of skeletal causes of mortality. Overall, the results showed that light color had minor impacts only on melatonin levels, mobility, footpad dermatitis, litter quality, and cause of mortality.

Light color and the commercial broiler: effect on behavior, fear, and stress

Light is an important component in poultry production, and it may impact bird behavior, an important component of animal welfare. Light-emitting diode (LED) lamps are of interest for broiler production since they are inexpensive to run and provide monochromatic colors. This study aimed to understand the impact of three light colors (blue, green, or white), provided by LED lighting, on behavioral expression, stress and fear levels of broilers. A total of 14,256 male and female broilers of 2 genotypes (Ross EPMx708 and Ross YPMx708) were housed in 9 rooms in 2 blocked trials (3 room replicates per light per trial), with sexes and genotypes housed in 12 separate pens per room. Behavioral expression was recorded using an infrared camera and analyzed using a scan sampling technique. To assess fear, 3 tests were conducted: tonic immobility, novel object, and response to observer. Blood was collected to evaluate chronic stress using the heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) ratio. Data were statistically analyzed using SAS (MIXED procedure) in a 3 × 2 × 2 factorial design, with lighting treatment nested within room. Fear tests indicated reduced fear levels in birds raised under blue light (lower latency to rise during the tonic immobility test and a lower percentage of birds moving due to the passage by of an observer). No differences were observed for the novel object test. Light color resulted in changes in stress levels, indicated by a lower H:L ratio for broilers raised under blue light compared to those raised under white light. Behavior was influenced by light color, especially at 33 to 34 d of age, where birds raised under white light were more active, and birds raised under blue light spent more time resting. Overall, results indicated that light color has minor influences on behavioral expression. Utilizing blue light during the brooding and rearing phase leads to lower stress and a reduction in fear, suggesting that blue light may improve the emotional states of fear and stress, thereby improving the welfare of poultry.

Does light color during brooding and rearing impact broiler productivity?

Light color during brooding and rearing may impact broiler production; however, literature results are inconsistent. To address this, the effects of 3 wavelength spectra on broiler performance in 2 sex and 2 genotypes (Ross YPMx708 and EPMx708) were studied. Broilers were raised (d 0–35) under wavelength programs provided by LED light bulbs (blue (455 nm), green (510 nm) or white) under similar intensities (clux). Two trials were conducted (total number of birds =  14,256; 6 room replications per lighting treatment; 18 replicate pens per light × sex × genotype). Data were analyzed as a 3 × 2 × 2 (wavelength × sex × genotype) factorial design, with trial as a random variable block and wavelength nested within rooms (Proc Mixed, SAS 9.4). Birds raised under white light were heavier than under blue or green light at d7 (P = 0.004), and green at d14 (P = 0.03). Feed intake, gain-to-feed efficiency and flock uniformity (d15, 28) did not differ. Mortality only differed at wk 5, when broilers raised under white light had higher mortality than those raised under blue (P = 0.03). YPM-708 were heavier at 21 d (P = 0.007), 28 d (P = 0.001), and 35 d (P < 0.0001), had a better total feed conversion rate (P < 0.0001), higher mortality for wk 1 (P = 0.001), lower mortality during the last wk (P = 0.02) and better uniformity at 28 d (P = 0.01) than EPM-708 broilers. Males were heavier at all measured ages except d0 (d7-P = 0.03, other weeks P < 0.0001), had better total feed conversion (P < 0.0001), increased weekly mortality except for wk 1 (wk2-P = 0.04, wk3-P = 0.002, wk4, 5, and total-P = 0.0001) and were less uniform (P = 0.0002) than females. YPM-708 and EPM-708 males had higher total feed intake (P < 0.0001), and males raised under white light had higher mortality than females raised under white or blue light (P = 0.01). To conclude, the use of specific light colors (blue and green) had only minor impacts on broiler production when light intensity was equalized and balanced for bird spectral sensitivity, and its use to improve productivity does not appear to be advantageous for broilers in a commercial setting.

Sediment metal enrichment and ecological risk assessment of ten ports and estuaries in the World Harbours Project

Ten global harbours were assessed for sediment quality by quantifying the magnitude of anthropogenic change and ecological risk. Anthropogenic change (enrichment) was high for Derwent River and Sydney estuary, moderate for Santander Harbour, Rio de Janeiro and Dublin Port, slight for Hong Kong, minimal for Darwin. All 10 enrichment indices used showed similar results. Derwent River sediment was rated at high ecological risk, followed by Sydney and Santander estuaries with moderate risk. Auckland and Darwin sediments exhibited minimal ecological risk and sediment in the remaining harbours (Dublin, Hong Kong, Ravenna, Ria de Vigo and Rio de Janeiro) were assessed at slight ecological risk. The extraordinary variety of environments and types/quantities/qualities of data investigated resulted in as much a critique and development of methodology, as an assessment of human impact, including unique techniques for elemental normalisation and contaminant classification. Recommendations for an improved technical framework for sediment quality assessment are provided.

Use of pattern recognition techniques for early detection of morbidity in receiving feedlot cattle

Two groups of cattle were used to develop (model data set: 384 heifers, 228 ± 22.7 kg BW, monitored over a 225-d feeding period) and to validate (naïve data set: 384 heifers, 322 ± 34.7 kg BW, monitored over a 142-d feeding period) the use of feeding behavior pattern recognition techniques to predict morbidity in newly arrived feedlot cattle. In the model data set, cattle were defined as morbid (MO) if they were removed from their pen to be treated due to visual observation of clinical signs of bovine respiratory disease and healthy (HL) if they remained within their pen and lacked lung lesions at slaughter. Individual feeding behavior parameters collected with a GrowSafe automated feeding behavior monitoring system were reduced via principal component analysis to 5 components that captured 99% of the variability in the data set. Combinations of clustering and cluster classification strategies applied to those components, along with pattern recognition techniques over different time windows, produced a total of 105 models from which precision, negative predictive value, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated by comparing its predictions with the actual health status of individual cattle as determined by visual assessment. When the models with the best specificity (models 79 and 87), sensitivity (models 33 and 66), and accuracy (models 3 and 14) in the model data set were used in a naïve data set, models 79 and 87 were not able to predict any MO heifers (0%), with all animals (100%) being predicted as HL. Model 33 predicted 58.3% of the HL and 66.7% of the MO heifers, with MO heifers identified 3.1 ± 1.64 d earlier than by visual observation. Model 66 predicted 50.0% of the HL and 75.0% of the MO heifers, with MO heifers predicted 3.1 ± 1.76 d earlier than by visual observation. Model 3 predicted 100% of the HL and 50.0% of the MO cattle, with MO cattle predicted 1 d earlier than by visual observation. Model 14 predicted 83.3% of the HL and 58.3% of the MO cattle, with MO cattle detected 2.4 ± 1.99 d earlier than visual observation. The application of pattern recognition algorithms to feeding behavior has potential value in identifying MO cattle in advance of overt physical signs of morbidity. Work on an integrated system that would automatically process data collected from automated feed bunk monitoring systems is still required, however, for this method to have value to the commercial feedlot industry as a practical means of identifying MO cattle in real time.

Trailer temperature and humidity during winter transport of cattle in Canada and evaluation of indicators used to assess the welfare of cull beef cows before and after transport

The current study evaluated 17 loads of cull beef cows transported in Canadian winter conditions to assess in-transit temperature and humidity, evaluation of events during loading and unloading, and animal condition and bruising. Regardless of the use of boards to block ventilation holes in trailers, temperatures were higher within trailers than at ambient locations during both travel and stationary periods (P < 0.01). Boarding was associated with smaller differences in trailer temperature, compared with ambient conditions, while the trailer was traveling at highway speeds versus when trailers were stationary (P < 0.01). Moisture levels within trailers were not different from ambient conditions when loads using boarding were traveling (P < 0.01), whereas loads without boarding had a larger difference (P < 0.01). The moisture within trailers relative to ambient conditions increased when trailers were stationary compared with traveling when boarding was used (P < 0.01). The majority of cattle transported were in good body condition (97.4% within BCS of 2 to 3.5) and had calm temperaments (96.7%). Although all comparisons were made, only the doghouse compartment had an increased risk of severe bruising compared with all other compartments (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 3.0 [1.6–5.5], 3.7 [2.1–6.4], 2.2 [1.3–3.7] and 3.8 [1.5–9.6] in comparison with the back, belly, deck, and nose compartments, respectively; P < 0.05). Increasing the duration of waiting to unload 30 min relative to a 1 h duration increased the odds of severe bruising by 1.18 times (95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.29; P < 0.01). Scoring systems that have been developed for auditing unloading of cattle had limited variation across loads at both loading and unloading. Pretransport assessment of animal condition using the American Meat Institute’s compromised animal score was the only scoring system that was consistent with posttransport scores. We inferred from the temperature and humidity data in the current study that under commercial conditions, boarding may increase ventilation within trailers during travel and decrease ventilation during stationary periods. The current study provides the first indication that issues in Canadian cull cow transport may be related to pretransport animal condition and management of unloading.

Trailer microclimate and calf welfare during fall-run transportation of beef calves in Alberta

Twenty-four commercial loads of beef calves (BW 300 ± 52 kg, mean ± SD) were evaluated for associations among transportation factors, in-transit microclimate, and calf welfare. Transport factors evaluated included vehicle speed, space allowance, compartment within trailer, and transit duration. Calves were transported for 7 h 44 min ± 4 h 15 min, with space allowances ranging from 0.56 to 1.17 m(2)/animal. Compartment within trailer, space allowance, and vehicle speed did not affect the difference between compartment ceiling-level and ambient temperatures during a 30-min period of steady-state microclimate. During the steady-state period, a 1°C increase in ambient temperature above the mean of 5.6°C was associated with a 0.62°C decrease in the difference between ceiling-level and ambient temperature (P < 0.01). Ceiling-level temperature and humidity during the first 400 min of transport could be predicted by ambient conditions and vehicle speed (pseudo-r(2) of 0.91 and 0.82 for temperature and humidity ratio; P < 0.01). Events when animal-level temperature-humidity index (THI) was classified as above the "danger" level lasted for 10.2 ± 4.1 consecutive minutes. Ambient and ceiling-level THI values were not classified as above "danger" for 90.0 and 84.9% of animal-level events. Ambient and ceiling-level THI were 5.0 ± 2.1 and 4.7 ± 2.0° Flower than animal-level THI during periods of disagreement, respectively. The majority of calves arrived in good condition and biochemical indicators of calf welfare were within reference ranges for healthy cattle. Within the study population, high pre-transport cortisol and hematocrit were associated with elevated post-transport values (P < 0.01). A 1% increase in shrink during the weaning to loading interval (24 or 48 h) decreased transportation shrink by 0.26 ± 0.04% when average animal-level temperature was greater than 5°C and decreased transportation shrink by 0.11 ± 0.04% when average animal-level temperature was less than 5°C (P < 0.01). We inferred that the study results support future investigation of the extension of in-transit microclimate as a risk factor for post-transport treatment for disease. The study also provided correction factors for estimating in-transit microclimate that could assist in evaluation of transportation management and decisions affecting profitability and calf welfare.

Effect of previous ramp exposure and regular handling on heart rate, ease of handling and behaviour of near market-weight pigs during a simulated loading

Goumon, S., Bergeron, R., Faucitano, L., Crowe, T., Connor, M. L. and Gonyou, H. W. 2013. Effect of previous ramp exposure and regular handling on heart rate, ease of handling and behaviour of near market-weight pigs during a simulated loading. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 93: 461–470. The objective of this study was to assess whether stress response during simulated loading could be reduced by providing pigs with experience prior to the event. Two weeks before simulated loading, 160 Large White × Landrace near market-weight pigs were allocated to one of four treatments: physical training (EXERCISE), psychological training (RAMP), EXERCISE and RAMP trainings (BOTH) or no training (CON). Once training was completed, pigs were loaded into a simulated trailer compartment, and the metrics of behaviour, pig and handler's heart rates, loading time and handling difficulty were measured. During loading, heart rate was lower (P<0.05) for EXERCISE and BOTH pigs compared with RAMP and CON pigs. The numbers of touch/slap and push were lower (P<0.05 and P<0.05, respectively) for EXERCISE pigs compared with CON, RAMP and BOTH pigs, which did not differ (P>0.05). The number of balks was the lowest (P<0.05) for EXERCISE pigs, whereas there were no differences (P>0.05) between BOTH and CON or RAMP pigs. This study demonstrates that daily exercise, by itself, improves the ease of handling and reduces cardiovascular response, while it appears that previous exposure to a ramp had no beneficial effects.

Effects of transport duration on maintenance behavior, heart rate and gastrointestinal tract temperature of market-weight pigs in 2 seasons

Welfare and meat quality of market-weight pigs may be negatively affected by transport duration and environmental temperatures, which vary considerably between seasons. This study evaluated the effects of 3 transport durations (6, 12, and 18 h) on the physiology and behavior of pigs in summer and winter in western Canada. Market-weight pigs were transported using a pot-belly trailer at an average loading density of 0.375 m(2)/100 kg. Four replicates of each transport duration were conducted during each season. Heart rate and gastrointestinal tract temperature (GTT) were monitored from loading to unloading in 16 pigs from 4 selected trailer compartments (n = 96 groups, total of 384 animals, BW = 120.8 ± 0.4 kg), namely top front (C1), top back (C4), middle front (C5), and bottom rear (C10). Behavior was recorded for pigs (948 and 924 animals, in summer and winter, respectively) in C1, C4, and C5 during transportation (standing, sitting, lying), and during 90 min in lairage (sitting, lying, drinking, latency to rest) for pigs in all 4 compartments. Transport was split into 7 periods: loading, pre-travel (PT), initial travel (IT), pre-arrival 1 (PA1) and 2 (PA2), unloading, and lairage. During IT and PA2, pigs spent less time lying in winter than summer (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05, respectively). During PA1, PA2, and unloading, a greater (P < 0.001) heart rate was found in pigs transported in winter compared with summer. During PA2, pigs subjected to the 18-h transport treatment in winter had a greater (P < 0.05) GTT than the other groups. In lairage, pigs transported for 18 h in winter drank more (P < 0.001) and took longer to rest (P < 0.01) than pigs from other groups. During PA1, pigs transported for 18 h had the greatest GTT (P < 0.001). At unloading, pigs transported for 6 h had the lowest GTT (P < 0.001). In lairage, pigs transported for 18 h spent less time lying than those transported for 6 or 12 h (P < 0.001). These results suggest that in winter, pigs increased their metabolism and were reluctant to rest on cold floors. Pigs transported for 18 h in winter showed greater evidence of thirst. It may be concluded that under western Canadian climatic conditions, long transports (18 h) in cold weather appear to be more detrimental to pig welfare.

Effects of trailer design on animal welfare parameters and carcass and meat quality of three Pietrain crosses being transported over a long distance

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of trailer design on stress responses and meat quality traits of 3 different pig crosses: 50% Pietrain breeding with halothane (HAL)(Nn) (50Nn); 50% Pietrain breeding with HAL(NN) (50NN); and 25% Pietrain breeding with HAL(NN) genotype (25NN). Over a 6-wk period, pigs (120 pigs/crossbreed) were transported for 7 h in either a pot-belly (PB) or flat-deck (FD) trailer (10 pigs/crossbreed(-1)·trailer(-1)·wk(-1)). Temperature (T) and relative humidity (RH) were monitored in each trailer. Behaviors during loading and unloading, time to load and unload, and latency to rest in lairage were recorded, whereas a sub-population of pigs (4 pigs/crossbreed(-1)·trailer(-1)·wk(-1)) was equipped with gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) temperature monitors. Blood samples were collected at exsanguination for measurement of cortisol, creatine kinase (CK), lactate, haptoglobin, and Pig-MAP concentrations. Meat quality data were collected at 24 h postmortem from the LM and semimembranosus (SM) and adductor (AD) muscles of all 360 pigs. Greater T were recorded in the PB trailer during transportation (P = 0.006) and unloading (P < 0.001). Delta GIT temperature was greater (P = 0.01) in pigs unloaded from the PB. At loading, pigs tended to move backwards more (P = 0.06) when loaded on the FD than the PB trailer. At unloading, an interaction was found between trailer type and crossbreed type, with a greater (P < 0.01) frequency of overlaps in 50NN and 25NN pigs and slips/falls in 50Nn and 50NN pigs from the FD than the PB trailer. Cortisol concentrations at slaughter were greater (P = 0.02) in pigs transported in the PB than FD trailer. Greater lactate concentrations were found in 50Nn and 50NN pigs (P = 0.003) and greater CK concentrations (P < 0.001) in 50Nn pigs. As expected, 50Nn pigs produced leaner (P < 0.001) carcasses, with greater (P = 0.01) dressing percentages, as well as lower (P < 0.001) ultimate pH values and greater (P < 0.001) drip loss percentages in the LM and greater (P = 0.002) drip losses and a paler color (greater L* values, P = 0.02) in the SM than 50NN pigs. When used for long distance transportation under controlled conditions, the PB trailer produced no detrimental effects on animal welfare or pork quality. Pigs with 50% Pietrain crossbreeding appear to be more responsive to transport stress, having the potential to produce acceptable carcass and pork quality, provided pigs are free of the HAL gene.

The influence of donor gender on allograft vasculopathy: Evidence from intravascular ultrasound

BACKGROUND

Allograft vasculopathy is a major risk factor for mortality following cardiac transplantation. Several immune and nonimmune factors have been evaluated as risk factors for the development of coronary vasculopathy.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the influence of donor gender on the progression of coronary vasculopathy in heart transplant recipients.

METHODS

Eighty-nine heart transplant recipients (67 men, 22 women of mean age: 56 +/- 12 years) underwent serial volumetric intravascular ultrasound analysis (IVUS) at baseline (within 1 month) and at 1 year after transplantation. Patients were divided into four groups in relation to the donor-recipient gender status: female-female, n=17; female-male, n=28; male-female, n=5; male-male, n=39. Ultrasound images were recorded during an automated pullback and with an equal number of slices (average=22 per coronary vessel). The measured IVUS indices for the left anterior descending artery were: change in maximal intimal thickness, average intimal area, total plaque volume, and intimal index.

RESULTS

Patients were similar in baseline characteristics. At 1 year after transplantation, IVUS indices of coronary vasculopathy were significantly increased among recipients of female allografts (P <.05).

CONCLUSION

Heart transplant recipients of female allografts display increased coronary vasculopathy progression.

Donor intracranial bleeding is associated with advanced transplant coronary vasculopathy: Evidence from intravascular ultrasound

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the impact of spontaneous intracranial bleeding (ICB) in the donor on transplant coronary vasculopathy using serial intravascular ultrasound examinations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 1995 and December 2000, 72 recipients underwent cardiac transplantation from donors who had experienced spontaneous ICB (ICB group). Their findings using serial intravascular ultrasound analysis at baseline (within 1 month) and 1 year after transplantation were compared with 90 recipients who had undergone transplantation from trauma donors (trauma group).

RESULTS

Compared with the Trauma group, the ICB group showed increased coronary intimal thickness (0.55 +/- 0.33 vs 0.39 +/- 0.3 mm; P = .034), plaque volume (3.84 +/- 2.5 vs 2.28 +/- 1.65 mm(3); P = .015) and plaque burden (7.4 vs 2%) at 1 year after transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

Donor spontaneous ICB is associated with significantly increased coronary vasculopathy.

Corrected TIMI frame count does not predict 30-day adverse outcomes after reperfusion therapy for acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grading is limited by subjectivity and imprecision. The corrected TIMI frame count (cTFC) has been proposed to obviate these problems. We sought to validate the utility of the cTFC in predicting adverse clinical outcomes after reperfusion therapy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We used angiographic core laboratory data from the Intravenous nPA for Treating Infarcting Myocardium Early Study (lanoteplase versus alteplase) to assess the predictive capacity of both final TIMI flow and cTFC on 30 day-composite adverse outcome (death, reinfarction, and new or worsening congestive heart failure). Only 390 angiograms of 586 were analyzable for cTFC; 33.4% of angiograms could not be analyzed for cTFC because filling of distal landmarks was not visualized for technical reasons such as inadequate panning. The interobserver correlation for determination of the cTFC was 0.99 and the intraobserver correlation was 0.97. The cTFC in the group with adverse outcomes was 49 +/- 34; in the group without adverse outcomes, it was 44 +/- 31 (P =.27). Of note, the TIMI flow correlated with adverse outcome in the overall group of patients (P =.018, area under the receiver-operator characteristic curve [c] = 0. 590) as well as in the group of patients with cines analyzable for cTFC (P =.025, c = 0.600). The independent correlates of adverse outcomes were age (P <.001), heart rate (P =.001), TIMI flow grade (P =.027), and infarct location (P =.038) but not cTFC.

CONCLUSIONS

The cTFC did not predict adverse outcomes in this population of patients but did show excellent reproducibility within our core laboratory.

Judicial case management and the custody and access assessment: melding the approaches

BACKGROUND

The presence of the Unified Family Court, with procedures emphasizing judicial case management and settlement in custody disputes, provided an opportunity to combine these practices with those of a university hospital-based family court clinic experienced in the provision of custody assessments. Specifically, a process integrating the clinical custody assessment with the work of counsel and court procedures was developed. This format, incorporating the preparation of a clinical settlement conference brief, was then evaluated with emphasis on time management, outcome in relation to settlement or trial, and the effect of clinical assessment at critical points in the combined endeavour.

METHOD

Seventy-two judicial referrals conducted using this format were reviewed. To assess efficiency, we determined time intervals to various points in the process and compared them to previous local practice. Settlement rates, recorded incrementally to mark each component's contribution, were compared with rates noted in the literature. Assessment functions were identified according to the point of resolution of the dispute and in a manner to facilitate comparison with previously published work.

RESULTS

The format resulted in 50% of cases settling without trial in under 5 months, a minimum settlement rate of 50%, and confirmed the ability of clinical assessment to contribute flexibly to dispute resolution in several conciliation venues and at trial.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining legal and mental health efforts can results in more efficient use of resources and a substantial diversion of cases from continuing litigation. While altering the process of clinical assessments enhances such findings, further work is required to assure appropriate selection criteria for various intervention formats.

How general practitioners view alcohol use. Clearing up the confusion

This paper reviews the findings of qualitative and quantitative research into family physicians' attitudes, beliefs, and experience with patients with alcohol problems. The implications of the findings are discussed in the context of the need for educational programs to improve physicians' work with these patients.

C to T nucleotide substitution in codon 713 of amyloid precursor protein gene not found in 86 unrelated schizophrenics from multiplex families

Jones et al. Nature Genet 1:306-309, [1992] recently detected a C to T nucleotide transition (codon 713) in a highly conserved region of the beta-amyloid precursor gene in a single case of schizophrenia. Although the sequence variant may be a natural polymorphism, it is crucial to determine whether the mutation might be present in a small subset of schizophrenics. We isolated DNA from 86 unrelated chronic schizophrenics who had a first degree relative with chronic schizophrenia or chronic schizoaffective disorder. After PCR amplification of exon 17, we were unable to detect the presence of the codon 713 variant in these schizophrenic cases, as well as in 156 controls. Unless additional cases are found with the codon 713 mutation, it is unlikely that the sequence variant is pathogenic for schizophrenia.

Peer support group for adolescents with chronic illness

This study assessed the effects of a monthly peer support group for adolescents with cancer and other hematological diseases. These adolescents shared activities and experiences with nondisabled high school students. At the group's conclusion, the adolescents reported that the group helped them cope with their illness and improved the quality of their daily lives. Nondisabled students reported that the group favorably affected their attitudes about, and intended behavior toward, peers with chronic illnesses. These results suggest that such groups can provide important benefits for individuals with chronic illnesses as well as for their nondisabled peers.