Blocking Factor Research Articles

Improving Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) Production through the Use of Azospirillum sp. AZ6 and Trichoderma harzianum T4-Based Biostimulants

Objectives: The objective(s) of the present experiment was to evaluate the effect of Azospirillum sp. AZ6 and Trichoderma harzianum T4-based biostimulants formulated in Mali on the growth and yield of Sorghum in Mali field during monsoon season. Study Design: The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design with three treatments. The blocking factor was the direction of rainwater runoff. Methodology: The study was carried out in the rural commune of Ouéléssebougou located in the Sudanian. The sorghum seeds inoculated or non-inoculated with Azozpirillum sp. AZ6, Trichoderma harzianum T4, were randomly sown in single-cropped with no nitrogen (N) application. For the control, 100% dose of N was applied at sowing time at 120 kg/ha. Sorghum plant height, sorghum yield, number of panicles and the weight of 1000 grains weight were evaluated. Results: The salient findings showed a significant increase of the parameters examined by Azospirillum sp. AZ6 and Trichoderma harzianum T4-based biostimulants. Inoculation of AZ6 improved sorghum yield by 68,25%, while T4 by 8.73% in comparison with the control. Conclusion: It is evident that Azospirillum sp. AZ6 and Trichoderma harzianum T4 are suitable for inoculating sorghum (Sorghum bicolore L.). Azospirillum sp. AZ6 produced the highest plant height, yield, number of panicles, and 1000 grain weight relative to Trichoderma harzianum T4 and the non-inoculated control. Therefore, this suggest that Azospirillum sp. AZ6 is suitable for large scale application in sorghum fields to reduce the production costs and increase yield while reducing N fertilizer application rate

PSII-12 The effect of the diffusion of geranium and clary sage essential oils on relaxation responses in horses

Abstract Aromatherapy has been used in holistic medicine to improve relaxation in humans; however, there are limited studies on its use in horses. This study investigated the potential of aromatherapy on relaxation responses in horses using two common essential oils geranium (Pelargonium asperum) and clary sage (Salvia sclarea). We hypothesized that aromatherapy using essential oils would improve relaxation responses in horses. Geranium aromatherapy (GA) and clary-sage aromatherapy (CA) were tested against a control (CO; deionized water only) in a replicated 3 x 3 Latin square with three treatments, three horses (584 ± 9 kg of body weight and 11 ± 1 yr old), and three experimental periods. The experiment was replicated using the same horses, and the two experimental replicates were considered the square blocking factor. Aromatherapy session involved a 5-min acclimation period followed by 15 min of aromatherapy using a diffusor. Heart rate and respiration rate at min 0, 7 and 15, and average counts for body position and facial expressions from min 0 to 7 and from 7 to 15 (early and late session, respectively) were used as measure of relaxation. Aromatherapy improved eye expression over time (P = 0.01), with GA and CA horses showing significantly increased durations of relaxed eyes from early to late session (2.8 min vs. 5.3 min for GA and 3.7 min vs. 4.8 min for CA), while horses on CO showed reduced duration from early to late session (2.7 min vs. 1.2 min), indicating increased level of alertness and tension. Aromatherapy tended (P = 0.07) to improve ear expression. Horses receiving CA tended to show longer durations of relaxed ears compared with CO (4.33 min vs. 1.25 min), while GA (3.25 min) did not differ from CA and CO. Aromatherapy did not affect (P > 0.05) measures of body posture and heart and respiratory rates. Although not all relaxation responses were improved by aromatherapy, the results indicate that aromatherapy has potential for improving relaxation in horses as indicated by facial expressions.

240 Feed preference of weanling pigs fed diets containing extruded corn ground to different particle sizes

Abstract The objective was to test the null hypothesis that there were no effects of reducing particle size of extruded corn on feed preference by weanling pigs. Three corn-based diets containing extruded corn ground to 700, 500, or 300 μm were prepared. An 8-d feed preference test was conducted with all possible combinations of the three diets. Each pair of diets constituted a treatment group (i.e., 700 vs. 500 μm; 700 vs. 300 μm; 500 vs. 300 μm). A total of 48 growing pigs [initial body weight (BW) = 12.1 ± 1.34 kg] were allotted to the three preference test combinations using a randomized complete block design with initial BW group as the blocking factor, resulting in eight replicate pens per treatment group. Two pigs were housed in each pen. Pigs had ad libitum access to feed and water. For each preference test, each pen contained two feeders with two of the three diets. Feeder positions within each pen were switched daily to minimize positional preference. Feed allotments and feed disappearances were recorded daily. Feed preference (%) was calculated by dividing the amount of feed disappeared for each diet by the total amount of two diets consumed by pigs. Three statistical models for each preference test included particle size of corn as fixed effect and block as random effect. Results indicated that pigs had greater (P < 0.05) daily feed disappearance and preference for corn with 700 µm on d 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8 when pigs had a choice between 700 µm vs. 500 µm (Table 1). For the other two preference tests, which were 700 µm vs. 300 µm and 500 µm vs. 300 µm, pigs had a greater (P < 0.05) preference for the larger particle size corn (700 and 500 µm, respectively) for d 3 to 8. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that pigs have a preference for larger particle sizes of extruded corn when given the choice. This may be a result of better texture of feed, a satisfying chewing experience, and the perception of greater bulkiness provided by greater particle sizes. However, further research with longer-term feeding trials is needed because pigs may have already adapted to consuming diets with 700 µm particle size prior to the experiment, which is similar to commercial diets.

Metagenomic insights into the mechanistic differences of plant polyphenols and nitrocompounds in reducing methane emissions using the rumen simulation technique

Methane (CH4) emissions from ruminants contribute significantly to greenhouse gas levels and also result in considerable feed energy losses. Plant polyphenols and nitrocompounds are two typical types of methane inhibitors. The study investigates the mechanistic differences between 2-nitroethanol (NE) and proanthocyanidins (PAC) in reducing methane emissions from ruminant livestock using the rumen simulation technique (RUSITEC) combined with metagenomic analyses.The experiment was performed as a complete randomized block design with 3 runs. Run was used as a blocking factor. The treatments included a control (CON) with no additive, NE at 0.5 g/kg dry matter (DM), and PAC at 20 g/kg DM, all incubated in vitro for 24 h (h) with eight replicates per treatment. The results showed that NE significantly reduced CH4 production by 94.9 % (P < 0.01) and total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) concentration by 11.1 % (P < 0.05) compared to the control. NE also decreased the acetate-to-propionate ratio (A/P) from 1.93 to 1.60 (P < 0.01), indicating a shift towards more efficient fermentation. In contrast, PAC reduced methane production by 11.7 % (P < 0.05) and decreased the A/P (P < 0.05) while maintaining microbial diversity and fermentation stability, with no significant impact on TVFA concentration (P > 0.05). Metagenomic analysis revealed that NE markedly suppressed the abundance of key genera involved in carbohydrate metabolism, including Prevotella and Bacteroides, leading to reduced acetate and butyrate pathways. NE also selectively inhibited methanogenic archaea, particularly Methanobrevibacter spp., which are integral to the hydrogenotrophic pathway (P < 0.01). On the other hand, PAC showed selective inhibition of Methanosphaera spp., targeting the methylotrophic pathway (P < 0.01). These findings provide valuable insights into the distinct microbial and metabolic pathways modulated by NE and PAC, offering potential strategies for developing effective dietary interventions to mitigate methane emissions in ruminant livestock.

Meta-hybrid IR cut filter for image sensor

We proposed a meta-hybrid infrared (IR) cut filter consisting of metal/dielectric/metal nanodisks covered by a pigment layer. Compared to a conventional pigment-based IR cut filter, the meta-hybrid IR cut filter dramatically reduces the thickness requirement from 1000 to 425 nm. In our design, the simulated blocking factor of the meta-hybrid IR cut filter achieved 28.1. The measured blocking factor is 13.4, which is due to the oxidation of metal in nanodisks. Nevertheless, the measured blocking factor is still three times higher than a pigment layer under the same thickness. We believe the proposed meta-hybrid IR cut filter can be applied to high-resolution imaging sensors.

Early pregnancy modulates the expression of interferon-stimulated genes, progesterone receptors, and progesterone-induced blocking factor in ovine duodenum

In ruminants, the signal (interferon-tau, IFNT) for the maternal recognition of pregnancy has effects on maternal extrauterine organs, and progesterone plays a key role during pregnancy. However, it is unclear that early pregnancy has effects on the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), progesterone receptors (PGRs), and progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) in ovine small intestine. In this study, small intestines were obtained at day 16 of the estrous cycle, days 13, 16, and 25 of pregnancy, and RT-qPCR assay, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used to analyze the effects of early pregnancy on the expression of ISGs, PGR, and PIBF in the small intestine. The results indicated that expression levels of ISG15-conjugated protein, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), myxovirus resistance protein 1, and interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) at day 13 of pregnancy were the lowest. However, expression levels of PGR isoforms (60 kDa and 40 kDa), PIBF, STAT1 and 2′,5′-oligoadenylate synthetase 1 upregulated, but the expression value of IP-10 downregulated at day 25 of pregnancy compared with day 16 of the estrous cycle. In conclusion, early pregnancy modulated the expression of ISGs, PGR, and PIBF in ovine duodenum, which was implicated in immunoregulation and nutrient absorption of the small intestine in ewes.

Combined Dopaminergic Drugs with Supplemental Progesterone to Treat Recurrent Miscarriage and Ulcerative Colitis despite Diminished Egg Reserve

Rationale: Chronic inflammation of pelvic tissues related to increased cellular permeability may not only be responsible for diminished oocyte reserve (DOR) but may also contribute to recurrent miscarriage and other comorbidities. Objective: To determine if treatment with dextroamphetamine sulfate to release more dopamine from sympathetic nerve fibers to decrease excessive cellular permeability, and thus reduce excessive cellular immune activity, coupled with progesterone supplementation from luteal phase throughout the first trimester to increase the amount of the immunomodulatory protein the progesterone induced blocking factor (PIBF) could prevent another miscarriage in a 37-year-old woman with recurrent pregnancy losses. Findings: With this treatment, not only did she conceive in her first treatment cycle and delivered a full-term healthy baby, but the dextroamphetamine markedly improved her ulcerative colitis. Proof that the improvement of the ulcerative colitis was medication related and not merely fortuitous was determined by proving Koch’s postulates. The improvement was found to be long-lasting in that she has not had any symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease for 1 ½ years post-partum. Conclusions: Dopaminergic drugs plus progesterone should be considered first in women with DOR and a manifestation of potential excessive inflammation as evidenced in this case by inflammatory bowel disease. This is the second case report of improving treatment refractory ulcerative colitis with dextroamphetamine, which is considerably safer to the patient and more efficacious than the standard immune suppressants.

Effect of dydrogesterone drug on physiological parameters in women with recurrent pregnancy loss

Three successive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks have passed since the last menstrual cycle are considered Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL). Progesterone is crucial for the initiation and maintenance of pregnancy. Due to its well-established safety profile, hormonal therapy with dydrogesterone (Duphaston) is used globally to support luteal function and lower the risk of pregnancy loss in women with URPL. Aim. Estimate the concentration of progesterone, estradiol, progesterone induce blocking factor and epithelial - cadherin in women's with RPL compared to control (fertile women) and known the correlation between them. Methods. Blood samples obtained from (70) women with RPL (35 RPL without treatment and 35 RPL with treatment) from different infertility clinics in Iraq. Also, 36 fertile women's as control. All groups are matched in BMI and age. Result. The concentration of these hormones were significantly decrease (p&lt;0.05) between RPL patients without treatment and controls. While, shown increase of all parameters level in RPL patients with treatment compared with RPL patients without treatment. Regarding the results of correlation were positive correlations between these parameters in patients with treatment and without treatment. Conclusion. This study indicates the importance of dydrogesterone and their positive role in an increasing of hormones level in blood and then lead to increase of other proteins concentrations in patients.

Factor XII and prekallikrein promote microvascular inflammation and psoriasis in mice.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory skin disease, featuring microvascular abnormalities and elevated levels of bradykinin. Contact activation of Factor XII can initiate the plasma kallikrein-kinin cascade, producing inflammation and angioedema. The role of Factor XII in psoriasis is unknown. The effects of deficiency of Factor XII or its enzymatic substrate, prekallikrein, were examined in the imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasis. Skin microcirculation was assessed using intravital confocal microscopy and laser Doppler flowmeter. A novel antibody blocking Factor XII activation was evaluated for psoriasis prevention. Expression of Factor XII was markedly up-regulated in human and mouse psoriatic skin. Genetic deletion of Factor XII or prekallikrein, attenuated imiquimod-induced psoriatic lesions in mice. Psoriatic induction increased skin microvascular blood perfusion, causing vasodilation, hyperpermeability and angiogenesis. It also promoted neutrophil-vascular interaction, inflammatory cytokine release and enhanced Factor XII / prekallikrein enzymatic activity with elevated bradykinin. Factor XII or prekallikrein deficiency ameliorated these microvascular abnormalities and abolished bradykinin increase. Antagonism of bradykinin B2 receptors reproduced the microvascular protection of Factor XII / prekallikrein deficiency, attenuated psoriatic lesions, and prevented protection by Factor XII / prekallikrein deficiency against psoriasis. Furthermore, treatment of mice with Factor XII antibody alleviated experimentally induced psoriasis and suppressed microvascular inflammation. Activation of Factor XII promoted psoriasis via prekallikrein-dependent formation of bradykinin, which critically mediated psoriatic microvascular inflammation. Inhibition of contact activation represents a novel therapeutic strategy for psoriasis.

The effect of silkworms (Bombyx mori) chitosan on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial population in vitro.

Ruminant enteric methane (CH4) is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. To minimize environmental harm caused by ruminants' CH4 production, natural substances can be used to suppress it. Chitosan from crustacean sources had been known to obstruct CH4 generation in the rumen. About 18% of silkworm pupae is chitin, but little is known about the impact of silkworm pupae chitosan on rumen methanogenesis. This study investigated the efficacy of the silkworm chitosan extraction method and its impact on rumen fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial growth in vitro. This study employed a randomized complete block design featuring five treatments and four batches for rumen incubation as the blocking factor. In this study, five treatments were implemented: Control (CO) (basal diet with no added chitosan), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Chinese Silkworm strain 804 (CHI804), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the PS 01 Hybrid Silkworm strain (CHIPS01), basal diet with 6% chitosan from the Hybrid F1 Japanese 102 × Chinese 202 races (CHIJC02), and basal diet with 6% commercial shrimp shell chitosan as the positive control (CHICOMM). The in vitro experiments assessed digestibility, pH, total gas generation, CH4 production, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and short-chain fatty acid levels, along with microbial population. Data were analyzed using a general linear model followed by Duncan's test when applicable. A significant effect on dry matter digestibility (DMD), total gas production, CH4, NH3-N, and rumen microbial populations (Methanogens, Ruminoccocus albus, Ruminoccocus flavefaciens, Selonomonas ruminantium, Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Streptoccocus bovis, Prevotella spp., and Bacteroides spp.) was observed (p < 0.05). The extracted chitosan (CHIJC02) used in this study exhibited a similar quality to that of commercial chitosan (CHICOMM). CHI804 treatment could reduce gas production, NH3-N production, and B. fibrisolvens population significantly (p < 0.05), while CHIJC02 could reduce CH4 production, methanogen population, acetate (C2) production, and increase propionate (C3) production significantly (p < 0.05). CHIJC02 and CHICOMM treatments could also increase the population of R. flavefaciens, S. ruminantium, and Bacteroides spp. significantly (p < 0.05). Chitosan addition significantly (p < 0.05) reduced DMD but did not impact organic matter digestibility or pH. The extracted chitosan mimics commercial chitosan in physico-chemical properties. Chitosan derived from Japanese and Chinese F1 hybrid silkworm strains demonstrated superior capacity for inhibiting CH4 generation compared to commercial chitosan. The quality and effects on methanogenesis, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial populations can differ depending on the origin of chitosan.

270 Interactive effects of available phosphorus and Ca:P on growth performance of nursery pigs fed diets containing phytase

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine the interactive effects of available phosphorus (aP) and Ca:P on growth performance of nursery pigs. A total of 2,492 pigs [PIC 337 × 1050, initial body weight (BW) = 5.6 kg], placed in pens with 35 or 36 pigs each, were used in a 36-d trial. Treatments were arranged as a 2 × 4 factorial structure with two levels of aP (0.40 or 0.55%) and four Ca:P (0.85, 1.07, 1.29, and 1.51) with 9 replicates per treatment. Four basal diets with the extreme aP and Ca:P levels were manufactured in meal form and blended at the farm to create intermediate treatments. Phytase [Allzyme Spectrum Swine (Alltech, Nicholasville, KY)] was included in the experimental diets at superdose levels with an estimated 0.15% aP release. The experimental diets were fed from d 0 to 19 and a common corn-soybean meal-based diet with adequate aP and 1.20 Ca:P was fed from d 19 to 36. Data were analyzed with the MIXED procedure in SAS in a randomized complete block design with pen serving as the experimental unit and initial BW as the blocking factor. There was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for aP and Ca:P interactive effects on growth performance (Table 1). From d 0 to 19, there was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for growth performance differences between the aP levels. Increasing Ca:P resulted in a quadratic response (P = 0.043) in gain to feed ratio (G:F), with no evidence for (P &amp;gt; 0.10) differences in average daily gain (ADG) or average daily feed intake (ADFI). From d 19 to 36, pigs previously fed 0.55% aP had improved (P ≤ 0.047) ADFI and ADG. Pigs previously fed increasing Ca:P had improved (linear, P = 0.024) G:F. There was also no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for interactive effects on removal or mortality rates. However, pigs fed greater aP had decreased (P = 0.021) mortality rate. In summary, there were minor performance differences between different aP and Ca:P levels, but feeding greater aP diets resulted in a significant improvement in mortality rate.

110 Effects of increasing levels of soybean meal in nursery diets on growth performance and fecal dry matter of 10 to 25 kg pigs

Abstract With the recent Renewable Fuel Standard Program developed by the Environmental Protection Agency, soybean oil is expected to be in record demand by the fuel energy industry. As a result, there will be the potential opportunity for increased usage of soybean meal (SBM) in swine diets. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of SBM in late nursery diets on growth performance and fecal dry matter (DM). In Exp. pigs [n = 1,266; DNA 241 × 600; initial body weight (BW) = 10.1 ± 0.27 kg] were fed 1 of 4 dietary treatments which were corn-based with SBM levels of 25.0, 28.9, 32.5, or 36.2%. In Exp. pigs (n = 2,340; DNA 241 × 600; initial BW = 13.5 ± 0.29 kg) were fed 1 of 5 dietary treatments which were corn-based with SBM levels of 25.0, 28.9, 32.5, 36.2, or 40.0%. Both experiments lasted 21 d with 14 replicate pens/treatment and 4 or 5 pigs/pen. At d 21 and 26 postweaning for Exp. 1 and 2, respectively, pens of pigs were randomly allotted to treatments in a randomized complete block design with BW as the blocking factor. Additions of SBM replaced feed-grade amino acids to form experimental diets, and all diets were formulated to be nearly isocaloric with SBM NE considered to be 100% of corn NE. Dietary additions of feed-grade AA were adjusted to meet or exceed NRC (2012) AA requirements in relation to Lys for Ile, Met, Cys, Thr, Trp, and Val. In Exp. 1, increasing SBM from 25.0 to 36.2% decreased average daily gain (ADG; linear, P = 0.012), average daily feed intake (ADFI; linear, P &amp;lt; 0.001), and final BW (linear, P = 0.021), with the greatest change occurring when SBM increased from 28.9 to 32.5% (Table). No evidence for difference between treatments was observed for gain to feed ratio (G:F; P = 0.729). Fecal DM decreased (linear, P &amp;lt; 0.006) as SBM increased in the diet at d 7, but not on d 21. In Exp. 2, starting with a heavier initial BW, increasing SBM from 25.0 to 40.0% decreased ADFI (linear, P = 0.017), with the greatest change occurring when SBM increased from 32.5 to 36.2%. However, no evidence for treatment differences (P ≥ 0.198) was observed for ADG, final BW, or G:F. Fecal DM decreased (linear, P ≤ 0.046) at d 7 and 21 as SBM increased in the diet. In conclusion, feeding greater than 28.9% SBM for nursery pigs starting at 10 kg BW does compromise performance, but when pigs are closer to 13.5 kg BW, greater SBM diets did not affect ADG or G:F. Also, increasing the level of SBM reduced fecal DM more markedly a week after the transition to high SBM diets compared with 3 wk after the start of treatment feeding.

160 Awardee Talk: Impact of indigestible protein on coccidiosis and meat and bone meal autoclaving time-related reduction in amino acid digestibility for broiler chickens and growing pigs

Abstract Meat and bone meal (MBM) is a byproduct of the processing of livestock in the rendering industry. Because of its highly digestible protein and balanced amino acid profile, MBM is a valuable protein source in swine and poultry diets. Rendering may reduce amino acid digestibility of MBM because of heat damage to MBM, and the effect of heat damage on amino acid digestibility in MBM may be different between broiler chickens and growing pigs. For this reason, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of autoclaving on standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acid in MBM fed to broiler chickens and growing pigs. Meat and bone meal from the same batch was autoclaved at 134°C for 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, or 180 min, generating 7 samples. Eight experimental diets consisted of 7 diets containing each MBM sample as a sole source of nitrogen and a nitrogen-free diet. In Exp. 1, male broiler chickens [n = 656; initial body weight (BW) = 777 ± 69 g] at d 18 post hatching were assigned to the 8 diets in a randomized complete block design with BW as a blocking factor. On d 23, birds were euthanized by CO2 asphyxiation and dissected for the collection of ileal digesta. In Exp. 2, barrows (n = 16; initial BW = 25.7 ± 1.0 kg) surgically fitted with T-cannulas at the distal ileum were allotted to duplicate 8 × 4 incomplete Latin square design with the 8 diets and 4 periods. Each experimental period consisted of 5-d adaptation and 2-d ileal digesta collection periods. Data for Exp. 1 and 2 were pooled as a 2 × 7 factorial treatment arrangement with the effects of species (i.e., broiler chickens or pigs) and autoclaving time (i.e., 0 to 180 min). The basal endogenous losses of most AA in growing pigs were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared with broiler chickens. The SID of nitrogen and tryptophan in MBM linearly decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in both species with increasing autoclaving time. An interaction between species and quadratic effect of autoclaving time was observed (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in SID of arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, and valine in MBM. Specifically, the SID of lysine both linearly and quadratically decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in broiler chickens (85.0 to 56.0%), whereas the SID of lysine only linearly decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in growing pigs (79.5 to 46.7%) as autoclaving time increased. In conclusion, given the species differences in amino acid digestibility response to the severity of heat damage, target species should be considered when using amino acid digestibility value of MBM in diet formulation.

264 Effects of increasing available phosphorus for 6 to 16 kg pigs fed diets containing phytase

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of increasing available phosphorus (aP) levels on growth performance of nursery pigs under commercial conditions. A total of 2,340 pigs [PIC 337 × 1050, initial body weight (BW) = 6.0 kg], placed in pens with 35 or 36 pigs, were used in a 39-d trial. Treatments were arranged in a dose titration with six levels of aP and 11 replicates per treatment. The aP levels were 0.33, 0.39, 0.46, 0.52, 0.59, and 0.65%. Two basal diets with the least and greatest aP levels were manufactured in meal form and blended at the farm to create the intermediate levels. Phytase [Allzyme Spectrum Swine (Alltech, Nicholasville, KY)] was included in the experimental diets at superdose levels with an estimated 0.15% aP release. Calcium levels were adjusted in each diet to maintain a constant 1.20 Ca:P. The experimental diets were fed from d 0 to 21 and a common corn-soybean meal-based diet with adequate aP level was fed from d 21 to 39. Data were analyzed with the MIXED procedure in SAS in a randomized complete block design with pen serving as the experimental unit and initial BW as the blocking factor. From d 0 to 21, pigs fed increasing levels of aP had improved (quadratic, P ≤ 0.024) average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed efficiency [gain to feed ratio (G:F); Table 1]. For ADG and G:F, the quadratic polynomial resulted in the best fit predicting 100% of maximum response at 0.50 and 0.52% aP for ADG and G:F, respectively. Similar improvements (quadratic, P ≤ 0.049) were also observed in the overall period (d 0 to 39). From d 21 to 39, while pigs were fed a common diet, there was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.05) for differences in growth performance. There was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.05) for differences in mortality rate. However, there was a quadratic response (P = 0.008) in removal rate, with declining rates up to 0.59% aP. In summary, growth performance of 6 to 16 kg pigs was maximized with 0.50 to 0.52% aP with further improvements in removal rate observed with greater aP levels.

64 Effect of feeding intact protein from soybean meal instead of crystalline amino acids on growth performance, protein synthesis, and immune response of growing pigs

Abstract The objective was to test the hypothesis that feeding intact protein from soybean meal (SBM) instead of crystalline amino acids (AA) does not affect growth performance, protein synthesis, intestinal morphology, or immune response of growing pigs. A control corn-SBM diet was used. Three additional diets were formulated by reducing the inclusion rate of SBM and adding 3, 4, or 5 crystalline AA (i.e., Lys, Met, Thr, Trp, Val) to the diets, which resulted in reducing the protein concentration from 20.0% to 13.4%. All diets were formulated to meet requirements for standardized ileal digestible indispensable AA. A total of 176 pigs [initial body weight (BW) = 32.2 kg; SD = 4.2] were used. On d 1, 16 randomly chosen pigs were euthanized and body nutrient composition was determined. The remaining 160 pigs were allotted to the 4 diets using a randomized complete block design with 4 pigs per pen and 10 replicate pens per diet. Starting BW was the blocking factor. Individual pig BW and feed consumption were recorded. On d 28, one pig per pen was slaughtered and blood, carcass, and viscera were collected and analyzed for N, fat, and energy to calculate deposition in the body. Ileal mucosa, ileum and colon tissue and digesta were analyzed for blood characteristics, cytokines, tissue morphology, ammonia, and gene expression. Contrasts coefficients were used to determine linear and quadratic effects of reducing dietary protein. Results indicated that average daily gain, average daily feed intake, gain to feed ratio, carcass characteristics, and protein, lipid, and energy depositions were not affected by reducing SBM and increasing crystalline AA in diets (Table 1). However, energy efficiency tended to decrease (quadratic, P = 0.083) by reducing dietary protein. Blood urea N was reduced (linear, P &amp;lt; 0.001) as dietary protein was reduced, but blood total protein was not affected by dietary treatment. Cytokines, ileal and jejunal morphologies, and gene abundance of AA transporters in the ileal mucosa were not affected by dietary protein. Ammonia concentrations in ileal digesta increased and then decreased (quadratic, P = 0.043) and colon digesta tended to increase and then decrease (quadratic, P = 0.074) as dietary protein was reduced. Bacteria protein in colon digesta was reduced (linear, P = 0.030) by reducing dietary protein. In conclusion, providing AA from intact protein from SBM or from crystalline AA did not affect growth performance, intestinal morphology, and immune response of pigs. However, SBM in diets can provide energy that may be utilized more efficiently than energy from diets with less SBM and crystalline AA. Further research is suggested to elucidate if SBM improves utilization of other nutrients in diets for pigs.

Pregnancy influences expression of interferon-stimulated genes, progesterone receptor and progesterone-induced blocking factor in ovine thyroid.

Embryonic interferon-tau (IFNT) and progesterone affect expression of interferonstimulated genes (ISGs), progesterone receptor (PGR) and progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) in the ovine thyroid. Thyroids of ewes were sampled at day 16 of nonpregnancy, days 13, 16, and 25 of pregnancy, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay, western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect expression of ISGs, PGR, and PIBF. Free ISG15 protein was undetected, but ISG15 conjugated proteins upregulated at day 16 of pregnancy, and expression levels of ISG15 conjugated proteins, PGR isoform (70 kDa), PIBF, interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 and myxovirusresistance protein 1 peaked, but expression level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 was the lowest at day 16 of pregnancy. In addition, the expression levels of PGR isoform (70 kDa) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) decreased, but levels of PGR isoform (43 kDa), 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase, IP-10 and MX1 increased at day 25 of pregnancy comparing with day 16 of the estrous cycle. Early pregnancy affects expression of ISGs, PGR, and PIBF in maternal thyroid through IFNT and progesterone, which may regulate thyroid autoimmunity and thyroid hormone secretion in ewes.

Reporting of interventional clinical trial results in an academic center: a survey of completed studies

BackgroundThe dissemination of clinical trial results is an important scientific and ethical endeavour. This survey of completed interventional studies in a French academic center describes their reporting status.MethodsWe explored all interventional studies sponsored by Rennes University Hospital identified on the French Open Science Monitor which tracks trials registered on EUCTR or clinicaltrials.gov, and provides an automatic assessment of the reporting of results. For each study, we ascertained the actual reporting of results using systematic searches on the hospital internal database, bibliographic databases (Google Scholar, PubMed), and by contacting all principal investigators (PIs). We describe several features (including total budget and numbers of trial participants) of the studies that did not report any results.ResultsThe French Open Science Monitor identified 93 interventional studies, among which 10 (11%) reported results. In contrast, our survey identified 36 studies (39%) reporting primary analysis results and an additional 18 (19%) reporting results for secondary analyses (without results for their primary analysis). The overall budget for studies that did not report any results was estimated to be €5,051,253 for a total of 6,735 trial participants. The most frequent reasons for the absence of results reported by PIs were lack of time for 18 (42%), and logistic difficulties (e.g. delay in obtaining results or another blocking factor) for 12 (28%). An association was found between non-publication and negative results (adjusted Odds Ratio = 4.70, 95% Confidence Interval [1.67;14.11]).ConclusionsEven allowing for the fact that automatic searches underestimate the number of studies with published results, the level of reporting was disappointingly low. This amounts to a waste of trial participants' implication and money. Corrective actions are needed.Trial registrationhttps://osf.io/q5hcs

Most Chronic Medical Conditions in Women are related to Increased Cellular Permeability and most can be Effectively Treated with Dopaminergic Drugs

Based on a conglomeration of basic science research studies a model of hypothetical mechanisms of how the fetal semi-allograft can develop into a live baby was created. One of the tenets of the model is that it is necessary to remodel some of the typically thick-walled uterine arteries found during the proliferative phase into thin-walled spiral arteries to allow nutrient exchange between mother and fetus through an autoimmune mechanism during the luteal phase. The model suggests that the rise in progesterone inhibits dopamine. One function of dopamine is to diminish cellular permeability allowing irritants to infuse into the endometrium thus evoking an inflammatory reaction. The body must suppress these cellular immune cells from attacking the fetus. Progesterone activates membrane progesterone receptors which produces immunomodulatory proteins e.g., the Progesterone Induced Blocking Factor (PIBF), which negates the killing effect of cellular immunity. One hypothesis suggested that PIBF may be secreted by malignant tumors facilitating these tumors with foreign antigens to escape immunosurveillance and thus metastasize. Progesterone receptor antagonists e.g., mifepristone, which suppresses PIBF, have successfully increased length and quality of life in patients with a large variety of end stage treatment resistant cancers. Excessive permeability of various tissues was hypothesized to be related to possible relative deficiency of dopamine. A large variety of medical conditions have been ameliorated significantly by the use of dopaminergic drugs e.g. dextroamphetamine or cabergoline. The model explains why certain conditions may get worse premenstrually e.g., pelvic pain or headaches by the added suppressive effect of progesterone on dopamine. Though possibly further research may modify this model, based on the present hypothesis, a large number of treatment refractory conditions had very successful improvement based on treating with drug releasing dopamine thus correcting tissue permeability disorders.

Abstract 3587: Evidence that membrane progesterone receptors (mPR) play a key role in cancer metastases in most cases of metastatic cancer

Abstract An immunomodulatory protein called the progesterone induced blocking factor (PIBF) is essential for the fetal semi-allograft to escape immune surveillance. Many cancer cell lines make both mPRs for PIBF and the protein itself. The progesterone receptor (PR) antagonist mifepristone added to cancer cell line cultures down-regulated mRNA for PIBF and the PIBF protein. This IRB approved study (that required a compassionate use IND from the FDA) evaluated oral mifepristone 200mg per day (majority) or 300mg in patients with very advanced cancers with no more treatment options available. Patients would remain under the care of their primary oncologists (FDA requirement). Because the nuclear (n) PR may be protective against cancer spread, only patients with cancers negative for the nPR were treated. Patients with the following types of cancers received mifepristone: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (n=9), small cell lung cancer (SCLC) (n=2), colon (n=3), pancreatic (n=2), thymic epithelial cell (n=1), transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis (n=1), malignant fibrous histiocytoma (n=1), glioblastoma multiforme stage IV (n=1), leiomyosarcoma (n=1). All 21 patients showed significant palliative benefits, especially but not limited to, marked reduction in pain and marked improvement in energy, decreased dyspnea on exertion, and return of mental clarity. For those who had repeat CT evaluation no one failed to show shrinkage and decrease in malignant lesions and 2 (leiomyosarcoma and SCLC) showed complete remission after a few months on mifepristone. Five patients (3 females, 2 males) with SCLC (1), NSCL (n=3) and fibrous osteosarcoma (n=1) survived at least 5 years with 2 dying from cancer unrelated causes (SCLC and NSCLC). Two are still alive (NSCLC with EGFR mutation and brain metastases). The male with fibrous osteosarcoma died after stopping mifepristone in favor of a new drug recommended by his oncologist. Two patients lived over 2 years. Most would have lived longer had they not stopped mifepristone. Other observations: significant palliative benefits are seen within 3 weeks of taking mifepristone before any evidence of significant tumor regression. After a period of time, some lesions (especially in the primary location) may start growing slowly, but this is not a sign of loss of drug efficacy and long good quality life is still probable if one remains on the drug. The cancer spreads rapidly if one stops the mifepristone. The usual reason for stopping the drug was intervention by the primary oncologist suggesting a new clinical trial because there has not been complete remission of the cancer or some tumor growth (usually slow) or finances. Not one patient had a side effect. Hopefully this study will generate interest in treating patients with advanced cancer with mifepristone, especially those devoid of the nPR. These data support the role of mPRs in cancer proliferation. Citation Format: Jerome H. Check, Diane Check, Brooke Neumann, Carrie Wilson. Evidence that membrane progesterone receptors (mPR) play a key role in cancer metastases in most cases of metastatic cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3587.

166 Effect of silo type on fermentation characteristics of laboratory-scale silage

Abstract Creating ensiled forage on a laboratory-scale is a tedious and cumbersome process. One must ensure an anaerobic environment for the success of the fermentation while also striving to replicate field-scale conditions. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of laboratory-scale silo type on nutritive value and fermentation profiles of grass-legume silage. This experiment was conducted as a generalized complete block design. There was one treatment factor (silo type) with 11 levels: field-scale baleage control (CON), miniature wrapped baleage (MINI), large fermentation bucket (6GAL), small fermentation bucket (2GAL), miniature silo (PVC), pint-sized Mason-type jar with “BurpLid” (BURP), pint-sized Mason-type jar with Ball-brand fermentation lid (BALL), pint-sized Mason-type jar with an airlock lid (LOCK), single-layered vacuum-sealed bag using a chamber-style sealer (CHMB), double-layered vacuum-sealed bag using a chamber-style sealer (HCHMB), single-layered vacuum-sealed bag using a suction-style sealer (FOOD), or double-layered vacuum-sealed bag using a suction-style sealer (HFOOD). Harvest served as the random blocking factor. Forage was harvested from a single alfalfa-bermudagrass pastures at the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center in Headland, AL. Forage was cut 24 h before collection and allowed to sun-cure. After allocation to treatment, samples were allowed to ferment for 56 d. Following fermentation, samples were assayed for NDF, ADF, ADL, CP, pH, mold, and yeast. Dunnett’s test revealed a difference (P &amp;lt; 0.05) from CON for NDF, ADF, and pH. Samples from PVC had 26% greater NDF and 45% greater ADF than CON (58 and 37%, respectively). Samples from BALL were 3 units greater and samples from LOCK were 2 units greater in pH than CON (4.8). When comparing alternative treatments exclusive of CON, there were differences (P ≤ 0.01) in NDF, ADF, ADL, pH, and mold counts among treatments. Results are interpreted to mean that BALL and LOCK are not effective representatives of field-scale silage production due to lack of pH drop, while PVC alters the fiber profiles. All other methods showed promise as prospects for laboratory silage procedures.