Current Industry Recommendations Research Articles

Modelling the impact of increasing supplementary feed allowance on predicted sheep enterprise production, profit and financial risk across southern Australia

Context Supplementary feeding may alter sheep enterprise production and profit margin, but use may vary across regions, sheep breeds and mating seasons. Supplementary feeding is a means of ensuring adequate nutrition but increases operating costs. Modelling has previously indicated the most profitable sheep enterprises optimise stocking rate and target lamb production, whereas those that minimise supplementary feeding incur the least financial risk. Aims To explore the impact of increasing supplementary feed allowance on production, profit and financial risk. Methods Seventy-two sheep farm enterprises were simulated across eight southern Australian locations, including three breeds and three mating seasons. For each enterprise a low grain allowance (LGA) of 30 kg/head.year (threshold used in previous modelling) was compared to a high grain allowance (HGA) of 35 kg/head.year and 42 kg/head.year for Merino and non-Merino ewes (current industry recommendations), respectively. The financial risk of each enterprise was determined via Conditional Value at Risk of gross margins over 30 years, exploring downside risk in the worst 20% of scenarios. Key results A HGA increased production and profit in 32% of farm enterprises, but financial risk was often increased. Merino enterprises were generally the most profitable, least risky and consumed the greatest amount of supplementary feed, followed by Composite and then Maternal enterprises. Summer and autumn mating was often most profitable, but high supplement consumption in autumn-mated enterprises increased financial risk. Conclusions Increasing supplementary feeding may improve production and profit but may also increase financial risk using the parameters examined. Implications Producers may be able to improve the production, profit and financial risk of an enterprise through increased supplementary feeding, but this will be dependent on breed, input costs, commodity prices and location.

Zinc about it - zinc and calf immunity.

Micronutrients, such as vitamins and trace minerals, are critical for supporting growth, performance, health and maintaining redox balance. Zinc (Zn), an essential micronutrient, aids the functioning of innate and adaptive immune cells. This scoping review aims to assemble and evaluate the evidence available for the role of Zn within calf immunity. Relevant literature was identified within Web of Science, PubMed, and CABI using search terms specific to the major innate and adaptive immune cell populations. There was no evidence that Zn supplementation altered neutrophil, natural killer cell, or T-cell functions. However, there was limited evidence to support Zn supplementation with reduced monocyte numbers, but there was no evidence to associate the monocytopenia with improvements in monocyte function. There is moderate evidence to suggest that Zn supplementation was beneficial for maintaining epithelial barriers of integumental and mucosal surfaces. The evidence supports supplementation above the current industry recommendations for improving immunoglobulin (Ig) production, with the strongest results being observed for IgG and IgM. Moreover, Zn supplementation was associated with reduced proinflammatory cytokine production, which may reduce inflammation-associated hypophagia and warrants further investigation. Furthermore, Zn reduced the duration of clinical signs in animals facing respiratory disease and diarrhea. However, consensus is needed about the optimal dose, route, and Zn formulation most appropriate for supporting immunity. In conclusion, while the literature supports that Zn could enhance calf immunity, there is insufficient evidence to adequately determine the extent to which Zn impacts innate immune cell and T-cell functions. Determination of the immune cell functions susceptible to modification by Zn supplementation is an important knowledge gap for enhancing the understanding of Zn and calf immunity.

Metabolism and excretion of therapeutic peptides: current industry practices and recommendations

Metabolism and excretion of therapeutic peptides: current industry practices and recommendations

Spacing Between Substations and Liquid-Type Transformers: How Close is Too Close?

Substations exist at every petrochemical facility, from the incoming power high-voltage substation and switchyard through all levels of distribution downstream. Typically, large liquid-type transformers are located near these substations to step voltages down to levels required by process units and other loads. This article examines current industry standard requirements and recommendations, fire considerations, and best engineering practices used when installing new liquid-type transformers and retrofilling existing liquid-type transformers with different types of dielectric liquids. The scope of this article is limited to in-plant power distribution outdoor transformers that have secondary voltages ranging from 480 V to 35 kV and are limited to installations subject to ANSI/National Electrical Manufacturers Association codes and standards.

Metabolism and Excretion of Therapeutic Peptides: Current Industry Practices, Perspectives, and Recommendations.

Therapeutic peptides (TPeps) have expanded from the initial endogenous peptides to complex modified peptides through medicinal chemistry efforts for almost a century. Different from small molecules and large proteins, the diverse submodalities of TPeps have distinct structures and carry different absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties. There is no distinct regulatory guidance for the industry on conducting ADME studies (what, how, and when) for TPeps. Therefore, the Peptide ADME Working Group sponsored by the Translational and ADME Sciences Leadership Group of the International Consortium for Innovation and Quality in Pharmaceutical Development (IQ) was formed with the goal to develop a white paper focusing on metabolism and excretion studies to support discovery and development of TPeps. In this paper, the key learnings from an IQ industry survey and U.S. Food and Drug Administration/European Medicines Agency submission documents of TPeps approved between 2011 and 2022 are outlined in detail. In addition, a comprehensive assessment of in vitro and in vivo metabolism and excretion studies, mitigation strategies for TPep metabolism, analytical tools to conduct studies, regulatory status, and Metabolites in Safety Testing considerations are provided. Finally, an industry recommendation on conducting metabolism and excretion studies is proposed for regulatory filing of TPeps. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This white paper presents current industry practices for metabolism and excretion studies of therapeutic peptides based on an industry survey, regulatory submission documents, and expert opinions from the participants in the Peptide Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion Working Group of the International Consortium for Innovation and Quality in Pharmaceutical Development. The group also provides recommendations on the Metabolites in Safety Testing considerations and metabolism and excretion studies for regulatory filing of therapeutic peptides.

ПРАКТИЧНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ РОЗРАХУНКУ ПАРАМЕТРІВ БЕЗПЕЧНОЇ ГЛИБИНИ ПРИ ВИКОРИСТАННІ ЕКНІС

The safety of marine navigation in coastal areas and narrow waters, which account for 80% of total navigational accidents, remains a pressing concern. These circumstances indicate the need to improve traditional and automated methods of passage planning and control of navigation and traffic management processes, based on the assessment of the actual navigation accuracy and navigation safety parameters. According to current industry recommendations, the main parameters of safe navigation are safety depth, safety contour, permissible cross-track limit, and accuracy of position fixing. This study deals with the development of a general practical approach to the calculation of the safety depth, as one of the main safety parameters in the ECDIS system, with an increased focus on those aspects of calculation where navigators tend to make mistakes. Analysis of data obtained during the training on the ECDIS simulator for navigators directly involved in the passage planning process (master, navigation officer) showed systematic mistakes in assessing the route safety, which can lead to ship grounding in real world. At the same time, navigators often do not recognize the danger, misinterpret it or make mistakes when checking the passage plan for safety. The results of the competence assessment showed that 40% of masters and 30% of navigation officers make mistakes in calculating the safety depth. The most common mistakes are the incorrect application of category zones of confidence (CATZOC), miscalculation of the minimum depth on the route, miscalculation of the tide height, tidal window period, the neglect of corrections for increased draught due to roll and pitch. The paper suggests that the UKC (under keel clearance) company policy shall take into account the accuracy of chart information. Furthermore, the research further develops the method of calculating the safety depth, implemented in the software, which makes it possible to systematically assess the safety of a route with multiple legs with heterogeneous parameters.

External Orthopaedic Implants in the Magnetic Resonance Environment: Current Concepts and Controversies.

MRI provides diagnostic three-dimensional imaging and remains extremely important in the diagnosis and management of spinal trauma as well as other acute traumatic injuries, including those of the extremities. The American Society for Testing and Materials has created standards against which all implantable medical devices are tested to ensure safety in an MR environment. Most implantable passive orthopaedic devices can undergo MRI without consequence to the patient. However, the American Society for Testing and Materials has recently updated its terminology resulting in confusion among providers and institutions. Primary safety concerns are radiofrequency-induced heating and magnetically induced torque or displacement. These safety concerns have emerged as a recent source of debate, particularly regarding the imaging of patients with external fixation and cervical immobilization devices in place. Surveys have shown a lack of consensus among radiologists regarding this issue. Having an institutional protocol in place for the imaging of these patients streamlines the diagnosis and early stabilization of certain polytraumatized patients. The purpose of this review is to summarize the pertinent literature as well as the current industry recommendations regarding the safety of commonly used external fixation, cervical immobilization, and traction devices in the MR environment.

A survey of northern Victorian dairy farmers to investigate dairy calf management: calf-rearing practices.

To describe the calf-rearing practices carried out in northern Victorian dairy herds and to identify weaknesses that may affect calf health and welfare by comparing the results with current industry recommendations. Survey of dairy farms from Rochester and the surrounding farming area. The response rate was 39% (58/150). Many dairy producers were not meeting the current industry recommendations in the following areas: (1) delayed access to pellets and roughage, (2) failing to provide access to water from birth, (3) delayed disbudding of calves, (4) delayed timing of booster vaccinations, (5) weaning based on age alone, (6) failing to isolate sick calves and (7) early sale age of excess calves. The results from this survey highlight the need for greater awareness of industry standards for calf husbandry and weaning.

A survey of northern Victorian dairy farmers to investigate dairy calf management: colostrum feeding and management.

ObjectivesTo describe colostrum management practices carried out in northern Victorian dairy herds and to identify weaknesses in these areas that may affect calf health and welfare by comparing the results with the current industry recommendationsMethodsA questionnaire to obtain information about colostrum management and calf‐rearing practices was sent to commercial dairy farming clients of Rochester Veterinary Practice between June and September 2013. The questionnaire consisted of a general herd overview and colostrum harvesting practices.ResultsThe response rate was 39% (58/150). Many dairy producers were not meeting the current industry recommendations in the following areas: (1) time of removal calf from the dam, (2) relying on calf suckling colostrum from the dam to achieve adequate passive transfer, (3) failing to supplement calves with colostrum, (4) feeding inadequate volumes of colostrum, (5) delayed colostrum harvesting, (6) pooling of colostrum, (7) failing to objectively assess colostrum quality or relying on visual assessment and (8) storing colostrum for a prolonged periods of time at ambient temperatures.ConclusionThe results from this survey highlight the need for greater awareness of industry standards for colostrum management and feeding hygiene.

Footbath dimensions and management on California dairies

Lameness is a common disease on dairy herds with implications on animal welfare and herd production. Digital dermatitis is one of most common infectious causes of lameness. Footbaths (FB) are commonly used on California dairies to prevent infectious foot diseases. However, few studies have evaluated FB design, dimensions, and hoof bath solution management. Based on current industry recommendations, the FB volume should be 1 liter per cow. The objective of this study was to describe footbath dimensions and management practices on California dairies.

In this issue – July 2017

In this issue – July 2017

Factors associated with colostrum immunoglobulin G concentration in northern-Victorian dairy cows.

To determine the proportion of first-milking colostrum samples produced on four northern-Victorian dairy farms that meet industry standards in terms of immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration and to identify risk factors that affect colostrum quality. Colostrum IgG concentrations from 442 dairy cows on four farms were estimated using a Brix refractometer and risk factors for colostrum IgG concentration were determined using multivariable logistic regression. Only 39% of samples met the definition of high quality. The strongest predictor for colostrum quality was the interval from calving to colostrum harvesting. Colostrum harvested from cows within 12 h of calving was 6-fold more likely to be high quality compared with colostrum harvested later. Colostrum from cows in ≥ 4th lactation was nearly twice as likely to be high quality compared with cows entering their 1st lactation. If the calf was not allowed to suckle from the dam prior to colostrum harvesting, the odds of producing high-quality colostrum were nearly 4-fold greater. If the cow had not leaked colostrum prior to harvesting, it was more than 3-fold more likely to produce high-quality colostrum. The majority of samples assessed were below industry standard. Herd, lactation number, calf suckling or cow leaking colostrum prior to harvesting and time between calving and colostrum harvesting were factors that influenced colostrum IgG concentration. The results support current industry recommendations of harvesting colostrum shortly after parturition (ideally within 12 h of calving) and testing the quality of all colostrum prior to feeding to dairy calves.

Survey of bovine colostrum quality and hygiene on northern Victorian dairy farms.

One of the major challenges for dairy producers is to produce, harvest, and store high-quality colostrum and feed it to their replacement heifer calves. Limited published data are available in Australia regarding the relationship between colostrum management, hygiene, and quality. The objectives of this study were to investigate (1) the colostrum storage and handling practices carried out on farm; (2) the immunoglobulin concentration and bacterial composition of colostrum being fed to replacement dairy heifer calves; (3) the percentage of colostrum being fed to replacement dairy heifer calves that meet industry recommendations; and (4) risk factors for bacterial contamination of colostrum. The study was carried out on 24 dairy farms located near Rochester, Victoria, Australia. Two hundred forty colostrum samples were collected (10 samples per farm). Each farm harvested and stored first-milking colostrum under normal farm conditions. A 10-mL sample of the colostrum was collected in a sterile container immediately before feeding, and a Brix refractometer reading was taken. The samples were then frozen at -4°C and submitted for bacterial concentration analysis. Fifty-eight percent of colostrum samples met the recommended industry standard of a total plate count (TPC) of <100,000cfu/mL, and 94% of colostrum samples met the recommended industry standard of total coliform count (TCC) of 10,000cfu/mL. However, when all the current industry recommendations for TPC, TCC, and Brix refractometer percentage for colostrum quality were considered, only 23% of the samples met all standards. These findings demonstrate that a large number of calves were at risk of receiving colostrum of poor quality, with high bacterial loads that may have interfered with the acquisition of transfer of passive immunity and affected calf health. Further investigation is required to identify the farm-specific factors that may influence the level of bacterial contamination of colostrum. Recommendations as a result of this study include refrigeration of excess colostrum shortly (within 1h) after collection and thorough disinfection of the calf feeding apparatus before use.

Effect of oestrus number of nulliparous sows at first service on first litter and lifetime performance

Current industry recommendations are to mate gilts on their second or third oestrous cycle (heat) to ensure that they have reached sufficient maturity and have adequate body reserves in order to sustain reproductive performance over subsequent parities. Delaying breeding has the financial implications of increased non-productive days and extra feed costs. However, these could be offset by increased fertility and/or increased lifetime productivity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of heat number (oestrous cycle number) on which gilts where mated on first litter and lifetime performance. In total, 157 gilts born between 2002 and 2006 were mated on either their 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th observed standing oestrus. Litter and reproductive data were collected on a continual basis until all animals had completed their commercial reproductive life. Sows were culled as of normal commercial practice and reason for culling was classified into groups. There was no effect (P>0.05) of oestrus number at first service on first litter performance (numbers of piglets born alive, dead, total born, average birth weight or pre weaning mortality). There was also no effect (P>0.05) on sow performance in the first lactation (feed intake during lactation, weight change during lactation or weaning to service interval). However, over their lifetime, gilts served on their fourth and fifth oestrus had significantly fewer numbers of piglets born alive (P<0.001) and weaned (P<0.001) and gilts served on their fifth oestrus also completed fewer parities compared with gilts served on their first, second or third oestrus. Gilts served on their third oestrus had the greatest (P<0.001) number of piglets born alive and weaned over their lifetime but completed a similar number of parities to those gilts mated on their first, second and fourth oestrus. However, there was no significant effect (P>0.05) of oestrus number at first service on the total weight of piglets born alive, dead or weaned over the sow's lifetime. There was no significant effect (P>0.05) of oestrus number at first service on reason for culling but there was on the culling rates of the sows between parities (P<0.05). This research found that the oestrus number that gilts are first mated on affects their lifetime performance and would suggest that the third oestrus is the optimal oestrus to mate gilts, as this resulted in these gilts producing significantly more (P<0.05) piglets over their lifetime.

Putting Merino weaner management recommendations to the test

Merino weaner survival is poor under normal traditional management practices. Data from four trials conducted between 2001 and 2005 were used to assess the effectiveness of current industry recommendations to achieve 95% survival rates of Merino weaners. There was very little difference between 2001 and 2003 in survival of Merino weaners despite average weaning weight ranging from 20 to 24 kg between years. The recommended target weaning weight of 23 kg does not always appear to be a good predictor of survival. However, a target of 45% mature liveweight at pasture senescence achieved the industry recommendation of 95% weaner survival. Merino weaners were fed over the summer–autumn period to reach 40 kg liveweight by the time green feed became available. Weaner survival reached 93% compared with 89% survival to hogget shearing in weaners managed under normal growth paths. Furthermore, twice as many ewe weaners died in the traditional feeding program compared with the well fed ewe weaners. Differences in mortality between feeding levels in the wether weaners was less than that observed in the ewe weaners. Flock average growth rates were not useful indicators of weaner survival and there was no relationship between Merino ram estimated breeding values for weaning weight and the survival of the progeny.

Mechanical Characterization and Performance Optimization for GPU Fan-Sink Cooling Module Assembly

Three GPU fan-sink cooling module assembly mounting mechanisms are mechanically characterized to determine the relationships between the clamping forces and screw torques. The first-order screw torque solutions are determined from the statistical regressions according to current industry recommendations. The screw tension force theoretical solution is derived for application to the finite-element model to assess the stress distributions on the thermal interface material (TIM) and solder joint layers by varying the retention sizes. The analysis results and stress differences are defined as the design objectives to optimize the retention design. Two optimized retentions are obtained from the characteristic stress difference curves accordingly. Through the thermal resistance measurement validation, the proposed retention designs improve the thermal performance to indicate less gap distance variation in the TIM. In addition, Better solder joint reliability can be obtained.

Investigation and Repair of Glazed Brick Cladding: A Case Study

Abstract The design and repair of exterior glazed brick walls differ from that of unglazed (normal) brick walls. Water that penetrates a typical brick wall usually enters through mortar joints, through failed sealant joints, and by absorption of the brick and mortar. Much of this water escapes the wall by evaporation from the face of the wall. However, the impervious face of ceramic glazed brick significantly reduces the amount and rate of evaporation of water that enters a wall, thereby exposing the glazed brick cladding to spalling caused by the freezing of moisture trapped in the brick units. In addition, since the glaze will trap efflorescence in the brick, the buildup of this cryptoflorescence behind the glaze can result in spalling of the glazed surface of the brick. Therefore, the prevention of water penetration into the masonry wall and the rapid removal of water that has entered the wall are critical to the successful performance and durability of glazed brick clad walls. This paper discusses the common failure modes of glazed brick walls and the current industry recommendations for the design and detailing of glazed brick walls. A case study of a project that includes the investigation of a wall with spalled glazed brick and the design and installation of new glazed brick on the wall is presented. This paper discusses the specification of glazed brick materials; the difficulties in color matching new glazed brick to existing glazed brick; the design and detailing of a new glazed brick wall; and other repair methods to prevent water infiltration and increase the durability of glazed brick walls.

Improving Stall Design: Use of 3-D Kinematics to Measure Space Use by Dairy Cows when Lying Down

Uncomfortable stalls reduce the time cows spend resting and are a risk factor for lameness. Although recommendations for stall dimensions are available, little research supports these recommendations. In this study, kinematic techniques were used to provide the first accurate measures of space used by Holstein dairy cows during lying-down movements in an open space and in a free stall. Cows (n=5, mean parity 3.2 +/- 1.0, body weight=607 +/- 21 kg) used up to 300 cm of longitudinal space when lying down, more than is typically provided by current industry recommendations for stall length. Cows used up to 109 cm of lateral space (180% of hip width), an estimate that is within current recommendations for stall width. During the lying-down movement, maximal lateral displacements at the hip occurred in two vertical zones: one between 95 and 135 cm, and the second less than 50 cm above the lying surface. Maximal longitudinal displacements of the nose were clustered 10 to 30 cm above the surface. These heights should be taken into account when designing and positioning stall partitions. Maximum instantaneous velocity of body markers approached 220 cm/s, indicating that cows can contact inappropriately placed stall partitions and the lying surface with considerable force. Kinematic techniques are promising ways of assessing spatial requirements of cattle to improve stall design. Further work is required to assess a wider range of cow sizes and stall configurations.

Structural and Hydraulic Performance of 1500-mm Smooth-Interior High-Density Polyethylene Pipe in Soil Cell

Soil cell tests have been used for decades to evaluate the structural performance of a variety of pipes. The structural performance of a 1500-mm (60-in.)-diameter, corrugated-exterior, smooth-interior high-density polyethylene pipe in a soil cell with two different backfill strengths is presented, and the results are compared with the values predicted theoretically. Specifiers demand assurance of the long-term hydraulic performance of smooth-interior corrugated polyethylene pipe. Fortunately, a mathematical model that allows for the estimation of the Manning value by using measurable pipe dimensions and flow characteristics is available. A discussion of the geometric changes in the interior pipe surface measured during the soil cell test is included, and an estimate of the resulting Manning values is provided. The results indicated a maximum increase in Manning values of approximately 3 or 10 percent, depending on backfill, for pipe buried within current industry recommendations for cover height.

Tightening up the design brief for building engineering services

The basis of design for the engineering services in an office development is established at the outset by the design brief. This becomes a reference document for the developer, design team and, ideally, the landlord and tenant/occupier as the case may be. A study of commercial office buildings in London that were either under design, under construction or recently occupied, showed that the concepts upon which building engineering services are developed vary widely and can be misleading (Table 1). Furthermore, current industry recommendations are sometimes overlooked and, despite advances in systems technology, the building services design brief often fails to highlight the benefits which are available and the running cost (cost‐in‐use) economies which may be obtained.