Effect Of Day Research Articles

Stage of lactation, parity, breed, milk composition and minerals affect the non-enzymatic antioxidant activity of sheep milk

The aims of this study were to i) characterize sheep milk for non-enzymatic antioxidant activity via 2 different assays, namely the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH), and ii) investigate the effect of milk composition and animal-related parameters on these 2 assays by using Generalized Additive Mixed Model (GAMM) approach. A total of 740 ewes belonging to Massese and Comisana breeds were sampled once during the morning milking across 11 sampling sessions. All milk samples were analyzed for fat, protein, casein, and lactose, somatic cell score (SCS) and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na and Cl). The FRAP and DPPH assays were tested to measure the non-enzymatic antioxidant activity of milk, expressed as μM eq. ascorbic acid/mL of milk and % of inhibition, respectively. The GAMM model included the effect of parity and breed as parametric terms, and the effect of days in milk (DIM), milk yield and the interactions protein × fat, casein × SCS, Ca × Mg and Na × Cl as smooth terms. The sampling day was included in the model as random effect. Results revealed that the non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity of sheep milk, expressed as FRAP, was affected by DIM, potentially because of changes in milk composition over time. Conversely, parity and breed of ewes affected DPPH, suggesting that age- and breed-specific factors are related to specific components in milk acting as hydrogen donors. Milk fat and high casein percentages were found to significantly affect FRAP, while protein content was crucial for high DPPH levels. Additionally, Ca and Mg emerged as important non-enzymatic antioxidants for both FRAP and DPPH, highlighting their important role in antioxidant activity of sheep milk. On the other side, combinations of Na and Cl were particularly influential for FRAP, revealing the complex relationship between these minerals and non-enzymatic antioxidant activity of milk. These findings offer valuable insights into the factors affecting the antioxidative properties of sheep milk, highlighting the need for further exploration of other non-enzymatic antioxidants and their contribution to the total antioxidant activity.

Effect of day 3 embryo cell number on the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of day 4 single embryo transfer from fresh cycles

BackgroundThe aim of this retrospective cohort study was to assess the impact of day 3(D3) embryo cell number on the clinical pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of day 4(D4) single embryo transfer in fresh cycles.MethodsThe study included 431 day 4 single embryo transfer in fresh cycles conducted between December 2018 and June 2023. These cycles were divided into three groups according to the day 3 embryo cell number: 248 cycles in the 7 ~ 9-cell group, 149 cycles in the 10 ~ 13-cell group and 34 cycles in the >13-cell group, and clinical pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes were compared among the three groups.ResultsThe clinical outcomes with 10 ~ 13-cell were significantly higher than those of the 7 ~ 9-cell group, regardless of whether the female age was < 30 or ≥ 30 years. The same result could be found when the insemination pattern was IVF, and when the transferred embryos were the grade of complete fusion. There were no differences in neonatal outcomes between different groups.After adjusting for confounding factors, the 7 ~ 9-cell group was associated with lower clinical pregnancy rates(CBR) and live birth rates(LBR) compared with the 10 ~ 13-cell group (CPR: aOR 0.527, 95% CI 0.317 ~ 0.874, P = 0.013; LBR: aOR 0.499, 95% CI 0.308 ~ 0.807, P = 0.005).ConclusionThe cell number of D3 embryos can be an important reference indicator for D4 embryo selection. When performing day 4 single embryo transfer in fresh cycles, embryos with 10 ~ 13-cell on D3 can be preferentially selected for transplantation to enhance clinical outcomes, especially when the insemination pattern is IVF, and when the transferred embryos are the grade of compaction stage.

Effect of days of age at first blood transfusion on intraventricular hemorrhage in very low and extremely low birth weight infants

ABSTRACT Background Preterm infants are a group cohort of transfusion recipients due to their low blood volume and underdeveloped hematopoietic system. The objective of this study was to probe the effect of days of age at first blood transfusion on intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in very low and extremely low birth weight VLBW and ELBW infants. Research design and methods Data of 150 VLBW and ELBW infants receiving blood transfusions were reviewed. IVH and non-IVH groups were established. General data on infants and their mothers and data related to blood transfusion, IVH risk factors, and the predictive value of the relevant factors for IVH were analyzed. Results The IVH group had lower birth weight, hemoglobin levels on admission, and days of age at first blood transfusion and higher 5-min Apgar score ≤7 points and early transfusion rate. Spontaneous delivery and 5-min Apgar score ≤7 points were risk factors for IVH. Birth weight and days of age at first blood transfusion had predictive value for IVH in VLBW and ELBW infants. Conclusions The younger the days of age at first blood transfusion, the higher the IVH risk. It is necessary to delay the days of age at first blood transfusion and reduce early blood transfusion.

Effect of gonadorelin dose and an additional gonadorelin treatment 2 d after the initiation of Resynch-25 on ovarian dynamics and fertility of lactating Holstein cows

Our objective was to improve ovulatory response at the initiation of the Resynch-25 protocol by (1) increasing the dose of GnRH from 100 µg to 200 µg; and (2) giving a second GnRH treatment 56 h after the initiation of the protocol. We considered the experimental d 0 the day of the previous service. The experiment consisted of a 2 × 2 factorial design to compare the main effects of GnRH dose (100 vs. 200 µg) and GnRH treatment times (once vs. twice 56 h apart). A total of 2,111 previous services in 1,438 Holstein lactating cows were used. On d25, cows were assigned to receive either 100 or 200 µg of GnRH only on d25 or on d25 and 56 h later (d27). On d 32, cows diagnosed as nonpregnant (n = 1,076 services) were classified as with or without a corpus luteum (CL). Nonpregnant cows with a CL continued the Resynch-25 protocol receiving PGF2α treatments on d 32 and 33, followed by a GnRH 32 h later and timed AI 16 h after the last GnRH. Blood samples were collected in a subset of cows on d 25, 32, and 34 to assess serum P4 concentrations. In the same subset of cows, transrectal ultrasonographic examinations were performed on d 25, 29, 34 and 36 to assess ovarian parameters and ovulatory response to the GnRH treatments. The overall ovulatory response at the initiation of the protocol, defined as the ovulation between d 25 and 29, was not affected by days of GnRH treatment and averaged 41.9%. On the other hand, nonpregnant cows treated with the higher GnRH dose had a greater ovulatory response at the initiation of the protocol compared with cows treated with the lower dose (48.0% vs. 36.1%). Despite the increase in ovulatory response at the initiation of the protocol, the GnRH dose did not affect fertility of cows submitted to Resynch-25. Furthermore, the second GnRH treatment on d27 tended to decrease pregnancy per AI on d32 after AI (39.0% vs. 43.9%), but no effect of days of GnRH treatment was observed in the subsequent pregnancy diagnosis. The absence of a functional CL on d25 and ovulation at the initiation of the protocol were positively associated with improved fertility. However, the improvement in fertility of cows ovulating at the initiation of the protocol occurred only in cows with a functional CL on d25. In summary, despite increasing ovulatory response at the initiation of the protocol, the higher dose did not improve fertility. The extra GnRH on d27 did not increase ovulatory response at the initiation of the protocol and tended to decrease P/AI 32 d after AI of the Resynch-25. Also, no additive effect of the higher dose and extra GnRH treatment was observed. Despite the lack of overall treatment effect, data presented in this study suggests that the identification of CL functionality on d25 may help to optimize the resynchronization strategy used at nonpregnancy diagnosis to potentially increase fertility of cows reinseminated.

Impact of Days to Receivable on the Profitability of Exporting Coal Companies in Indonesia

This study examines the effects of exchange rates, export intensity, and days to receivable on the profitability of Indonesian coal exporting companies, using panel data from 2015 to 2023. The objective is to find if export intensity and exchange rate impedes the effect of days to receivable on profitability. Interaction analyses reveal that the positive impact of receivables on profitability diminishes with increasing exchange rates. Conversely, the interaction between days to receivable and export intensity does not significantly affect profitability. Therefore, it might be beneficial for Indonesian coal companies should explore implementing more flexible trade credit policies to enhance customer relationships, particularly during periods of rupiah appreciation.

Protection efficacy and immunogenicity of Clostridium chauvoei proteins as a subunit blackleg vaccine or an adjuvant for Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxoid

Potential application of Clostridium chauvoei proteins was studied as a subunit blackleg vaccine or a biological adjuvant for Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxoid vaccine. Extracellular and cell surface proteins were extracted from C. chauvoei culture, and their protective efficacy was evaluated by potency test in guinea pigs. In order to investigate the effect of cell surface proteins on C. perfringens epsilon toxoid immunogenicity, rabbits were inoculated subcutaneously twice with: C. perfringens type D toxoid supernatant +200 μg C. chauvoei cell surface proteins (PR-200), toxoid supernatant + 400 μg cell surface proteins (PR-400), inactivated C. perfringens type D vaccine (Vac), toxoid supernatant (Tox), or PBS. Isolation of cell surface proteins yielded about 2.5 mg/L culture protein with a sharp band at 43 kDa probably corresponding to flagellin. Potency test demonstrated the protection ability of both cellular and extracellular proteins of C. chauvoei. ELISA showed that the highest antibody titers against epsilon toxoid belonged to PR-400 and Vac groups. The effect of days post immunization on antibody response was not significant. No significant difference was observed between PR-400 and Vac, as well as PR-200 and Tox groups. Clostridium chauvoei cell surface proteins may have the potential for application as a blackleg disease vaccine and an adjuvant for clostridial toxoids.

Greater lactate accumulation does not alter peripheral concentrations of key appetite-regulating neuropeptides.

The potential mechanisms involved in lactate's role in exercise-induced appetite suppression require further examination. We used sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) supplementation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover design to explore lactate's role on neuropeptide Y (NPY), agouti-related peptide (AgRP), and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) concentrations. Twelve adults (7 males; 24.2 ± 3.4 kg·m-2; 42.18 ± 8.56 mL·kg-1·min-1) completed two identical high-intensity interval training sessions following ingestion of NaHCO3 (BICARB) or sodium chloride (PLACEBO) pre-exercise. Blood lactate, acylated ghrelin, NPY, AgRP, α-MSH, and appetite perceptions were measured pre-exercise, 0-, 30-, 60-, and 90-min postexercise. Free-living energy intake (electronic food diaries) was measured the day before, of, and after each experimental session. In BICARB, blood lactate was greater postexercise (P < 0.002, d > 0.70), though acylated ghrelin was similar (P = 0.075, [Formula: see text] = 0.206) at all time points postexercise (P > 0.034, d < 0.22). NPY (P = 0.006, [Formula: see text] > 0.509) and AgRP (P < 0.001, [Formula: see text] > 0.488) had main effects of time increasing following exercise and returning to baseline, with no differences between sessions (NPY: P = 0.0.192, [Formula: see text] = 0.149; AgRP: P = 0.422, [Formula: see text] = 0.060). α-MSH had no main effect of time (P = 0.573, [Formula: see text] = 0.063) or session (P = 0.269, [Formula: see text] = 0.110). Appetite perceptions were similar during BICARB and PLACEBO (P = 0.007, d = 0.28), increasing in both sessions postexercise (P < 0.088, d > 0.57). Energy intake had a main effect of day (P = 0.025, [Formula: see text] = 0.825), where the experimental session day was greater than the day before (P = 0.010, d = 0.59) with no other differences between days (P > 0.260, d < 0.38). The lower accumulation of lactate than our previous work did not generate exercise-induced appetite suppression as there were no differences in acylated ghrelin, appetite perceptions, or peripheral concentrations of neuropeptides.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Current evidence supports lactate's role in exercise-induced appetite suppression. Here, we demonstrate a smaller degree of lactate accumulation with sodium bicarbonate ingestion and HIIT than our previous work and no subsequent suppression of acylated ghrelin concentrations, subjective appetite perceptions, or peripheral concentrations of neuropeptides. These results suggest either changes in central appetite-regulating neuropeptides are not reflected peripherally or the smaller magnitude of lactate accumulation did not generate exercise-induced appetite suppression as seen previously.

PSII-15 Comparative analysis of equine diets on growth metrics and economic feasibility

Abstract The objective of the study was to assess the impact of two commonly available low non-structural carbohydrate equine diets on growth parameters and economic factors in young growing horses. To do this, young stock type horses n = 11; 6 fillies, 5 colts; body weight (BW) = 380.3 ± 15 kg] were separated into two groups that were balanced by age, sex, and BW. All horses were backgrounded for 14 d on a hay-only diet prior to the beginning of the study. Additionally, each group was assigned to one of two dietary treatments fed at 0.75% BW/d (as fed) twice daily in 12 h intervals for 56 d. Dietary treatments consisted of a leading national brand feed (n = 5) and Thomas Moore Calm and Safe (n = 6). Horses were allowed ad libitum access to Coastal bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay and fresh water. For the 56-d period, horses were exercised at a light workload for 30 min/d and 4 d/wk. For all growth measurements, a baseline measurement was recorded per horse. Growth measurements were then recorded at 7 d intervals. Data from these growth measurements were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS v9.4 with the fixed effects of day and diet. Growth metrics increased on all horses throughout the length of the trial regardless of dietary treatment (P ≤ 0.01), which is expected from young growing horses. A Diet x Day trend towards significance (P = 0.075) was observed for BW, as the leading national brand feed dietary treatment group tended to have heavier BW than the Thomas Moore Calm and Safe during the duration of the study. Additionally, body fat percentage was greater (P = 0.04) in the national leading brand feed group compared with the Thomas Moore group. None of the remaining growth metrics had any statistical difference across diets. Furthermore, there was no difference in dietary intake between dietary groups (P &amp;gt; 0.5). These results suggest that the Thomas Moore Calm and Safe concentrate serves as a good alternative and economically friendly for young growing horses when compared with more traditional feeds currently on the market.

18 Impacts of supplementing sulfate vs. hydroxychloride sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn on heifer growth performance and physiology during feed restriction and high-starch challenge periods

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of supplementing different sources (sulfate vs. hydroxychloride) of Cu, Mn, and Zn during feed restriction and high-starch challenge periods on heifer growth performance and physiology. On d 0, Nelore heifers (n = 40) were stratified by body weight (BW = 238 ± 38 kg) and age (21 ± 1 mo), and individually allocated into 1 of 40 drylot pens. The study was divided: washout (d 0 to 27), nutrient surplus (d 28 to 55), nutrient restriction (d 56 to 83), and high-starch challenge (d 84 to 112). The washout period consisted of limit-feeding Tifton hay (2.5% of BW; DM basis) and providing free choice access to white salt only. On d 28, heifers were randomly assigned to receive protein DM supplementation (0.10 to 0.20% of BW) added with sulfate (SUL) or hydroxychloride (HYD) sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn (≥ 260, 200, and 960 mg of Cu, Mn, and Zn per kg of supplement DM) from d 28 to 112 (n = 20 heifers/treatment). From d 28 to 55, heifers were offered ad libitum Tifton hay. From d 56 to 83, heifers were limit-fed 50% of average hay DM intake consumed in the last 6 d of the previous phase (d 50 to 55). From d 84 to 112, each respective protein supplement was mixed with a starch-based total mixed ration (TMR). Heifers were gradually adapted to the starch-based TMR by increasing the concentrate DM amount while simultaneously decreasing the hay DM amount by 20% every 7 d (starting with 35% concentrate and 65% hay on d 84 and ending with 80% concentrate and 20% hay from day 106 to 112). Individual heifer shrunk BW were collected on d 0, 28, 56, 84, and 112, following 12 h of feed and water withdrawal. Effects of treatment × day and treatment were not detected (P ≥ 0.37) for heifer BW, average daily gain (ADG), and dry matter (DM) intake, except for ADG from d 28 to 56, which was less (P = 0.05) for SUL vs. HYD heifers (-0.21 ± 0.05 vs. -0.10 ± 0.05 kg/day, respectively). Effects of day, but not treatment × day and treatment (P ≥ 0.43), were detected for fecal pH, which remained relatively constant from d 0 to 84, and then decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) from 7.2 on d 84 to 5.8-6.0 on d 110. Overall, protein supplementation added with hydroxychloride sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn had minor positive effects on heifer growth performance immediately following a washout period, but did not improve heifer growth performance and fecal pH during nutrient restriction and high-starch challenge periods, compared with protein supplementation added with sulfate sources of same metals.

353 Zinc supplementation prior to transit and transit duration effects on feedlot performance and muscle fatigue of beef steers: Part I – Performance and Muscle Fatigue

Abstract This study investigated zinc (Zn) as a mitigation strategy for transit-induced muscle fatigue. Recently weaned Angus-cross steers (n = 80) were stratified by body weight (BW = 265 ± 18.0 kg) to a 2×2 factorial. Dietary (DIET) treatments of no supplemental Zn (Zn0) or 100 mg supplemental Zn/kg DM (Zn100; Zn as ZnSO4), were fed for 42 d before transit. Along with a transit duration (DUR) of 8 h (~707 km; 8H) or 18 h (~1,608 km; 18H) on d 0. Upon return, and for 56 d post-transit, all steers received Zn100. Individual feed disappearance was monitored using GrowSafe bunks (1 bunk/pen; 5 steers/pen). Body weights were collected on d -42, -41, -1, 0 (on truck), 1 (off truck), 2, 7, 28, 55, and 56. Blood samples for analysis of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and serum L-lactate were collected on d -1, 1, 2, and 7. Data were analyzed via ProcMixed of SAS (experimental unit = steer; 15 to 20/treatment) as a 2 × 2 factorial, with fixed effects of DIET, DUR, and the interaction. Individual initial (d -42) BW was used as a covariate in BW analysis. Average DMI of d -11 to d -2 (pre-trucking) was used as a covariate in post-transit DMI analysis. Blood parameters were log-transformed and analyzed as repeated measures with repeated effect of day. Pre-transit (d -1) concentrations were used as a covariate. Pre-transit average daily gain (ADG) and dry matter intake (DMI) were greater (P ≤ 0.02) and feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F) tended to be greater (P = 0.10) in Zn100 vs. Zn0. BW on d -1 and 7 (P = 0.01) was greater for Zn100 than Zn0. There was a DIET effect and DUR tendency on post-transit G:F where Zn0 was greater than Zn100 (P ≤ 0.01) and 18H tended to be greater than 8H (P = 0.05). 56-d post-transit ADG was least for Zn100-8H (DIET×DUR, P = 0.02). Post-transit DMI was greatest for Zn0-8H with Zn100-8H being the lowest and other treatments being not different (DIET × DUR, P = 0.04). Diet did not affect L- lactate or NEFA concentrations (P &amp;gt; 0.13). NEFA was greater for 18H vs. 8H on d 1 and 2 but less on d 7 (DUR×DAY, P &amp;lt; 0.01). There was a DUR×DAY effect (P ≤ 0.01) for L-Lactate where 8H tended to be greater than 18H on d 1, but by d 2 8H was lesser than 18H, and on d 7 they were not different. In conclusion, longer transit duration increases some indicators of muscle fatigue and Zn supplementation improved pre-transit performance. Receiving Zn supplementation after trucking also improved the post-transit performance of those not previously supplemented with Zn.

Adolescents’ Digital Nightlife: The Comparative Effects of Day- and Nighttime Smartphone Use on Sleep Quality

The smartphone occupies a substantial part of adolescents’ daily life, from the moment they wake up to, for some, well beyond their bedtime. The current study compared the impact of adolescents’ daytime, pre-bedtime, and post-bedtime smartphone use on their sleep quality. In addition, it explored the differential effects of lean-back and lean-forward smartphone apps. We collected data from 155 adolescents across 21 days using smartphone tracking (745,706 app activities) in combination with experience sampling (1,950 sleep quality assessments). We found no significant effects of daytime and pre-bedtime smartphone use on sleep quality, but a negative association of post-bedtime smartphone use with sleep quality (β = −.09). The association between smartphone use and sleep quality varied across app categories: Time spent on lean-forward apps around bedtime, such as social media apps right before (β = −.08) and game apps after bedtime (β = −.23), was associated with lower sleep quality. The use of lean-back apps (i.e., video players) was not associated with sleep quality, neither before nor after bedtime.

Role of skin circadian rhythm and the effect of day and night cream: a survey on Indian dermatologists’ and cosmetologists’ views and patient experiences

Background: The skin plays different functions during the day and night to adapt to the changing environments. Various specialized creams are available to meet these skincare needs. The present study was conducted to explore the perspective of Indian dermatologists and cosmetologists on skin’s circadian rhythm and assess the effectiveness of a particular day and night cream formulation. Methods: A non-interventional, questionnaire-based study was conducted as part of a survey series on multiple dermatology products across India. Every month, a product-specific survey link was released to these registered doctors, and each doctor could take up to 10 surveys for a maximum of two products. A total of 379 healthcare professionals (HCPs) took the survey on the day and night cream and reported experiences of 2085 patients regarding the use of these products. Results: The doctors believed that for majority of the patients (1997, 97%), required day and night cream to maintain their skin’s circadian rhythm. Most patients (1440, 70%) were compliant with day and night care cream regimens. Most patients (966, 47%) were highly satisfied with the use of day and night cream, with majority of the patients (1028, 49.4%) experiencing considerable reduction in dark spots and uneven skin tone. Most patients (971, 47%) felt that the application of day and night cream left their skin moisturized and rejuvenated. Conclusions: The use of day and night cream improved skin condition and hydration, addressing circadian rhythm imbalance. Indian HCPs understand the impact of skin circadian rhythm imbalance and promote a comprehensive skincare regimen to patients.

Yield Trait Association Studies through Principal Component Analysis in Bi-Parental Population Derived from indica/tropical japonica Inter Sub-Specific Cross in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

In the present investigation, a mapping population consisting of 189 lines derived from an inter sub-specific cross between an indica cultivar, ‘Samba Mahsuri’ and a tropical japonica accession, ‘Cuba 65’ was investigated to assess the trait contribution to variability employing principal component analysis (PCA). The study aimed at determination of inter-relationships among various yield attributing traits vis-à-vis individuals of the mapping population. Out of eleven principal components (PC), first four PCs exhibited Eigen value more than one accounting to a total of 68.73% cumulative variance among the characters. The first PC accounted for the highest variability (PC1 31.6%) to the total variability, followed by 14.51% (PC2), 12.69% (PC3) and 9.91% (PC4). The highest positive Eigen value observed for the tiller number (0.33) and panicle number (0.32) in PC1 indicated their pronounced effect in the overall variation in the population. The analysis revealed the traits that contribute maximum for the variation. PCA also revealed negligible effect of days to fifty percent flowering, grain size and spikelet fertility to the variability in the mapping population. Although all the studied traits except grain size showed significant positive association with grain yield; negative correlation was observed between some of the component traits. Panicle weight, thousand grain weight and grain number showed negative association with tiller number and panicle number. The latter two traits contributed to the maximum variability in the population. The trait associations identified in the present investigation will help in determining the selection criteria to be adopted in the development of high yielding cultivars involving indica/tropical japonica populations.

Is it possible to replace eCG by GnRH in the hormonal protocol for timed artificial insemination in ewes during the breeding season?

Hormonal protocols based on progestogens and equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) are efficient for estrus and ovulation synchronization in ewes. Although eCG is indispensable during seasonal anestrus, it may not be necessary during the breeding season. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that GnRH is effective in replacing eCG during the breeding season allowing satisfactory ovulation rate, luteal function and conception rates after timed artificial insemination (TAI). Ewes (n = 134) with a minimum body condition score of 2.5 (0–5 scale) were treated with intravaginal devices (IVD) containing 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for seven days and received 0.26 mg of sodium cloprostenol at the time of IVD removal. In Exp. 1, at IVD removal, ewes (n = 29) were allocated to three groups: eCG (200 IU at IVD removal; n = 10); eCG+GnRH (200 IU eCG at IVD removal and 4 µg of buserelin 36 h later; n = 10); or GnRH (buserelin 36 h after IVD removal; n = 9). Blood samples were collected 2, 6 and 12 days after TAI moment (54 h after IVD removal), for progesterone (P4) analysis. In Exp 2, the ewes were allocated to eCG (n = 10) or GnRH (n = 10) groups, as above described, and ovulation moment was evaluated 54, 66 and 78 h after IVD removal. In Exp 3, TAI was performed in ewes from eCG (n = 45) and GnRH (n = 40) groups using 100 × 106 motile spermatozoa from a pool of semen collected from four rams. In Exp. 1, based on P4 levels, we confirmed that all the ewes ovulated (29/29) and there was no significant effect of group (P = 0.89) or group x day (P = 0.18) on P4 concentration, being observed a significant effect of day (P = 0.0001). In Exp. 2, the maximum DF diameter (P = 0.26) and ovulation moment (P = 0.69) did not differ between groups. In Exp. 3, pregnancy rate was significantly lower (P = 0.02) in GnRH (22.5 %; 9/40) compared to eCG (46.7 %; 21/45). The results indicate that, although ovulation and luteal function were not altered after eCG, eCG+GnRH or GnRH treatment, GnRH alone before TAI cannot be used to replace eCG treatment during the breeding season.

Effects of days on feed on performance and carcass characteristics of crossbred beef × dairy heifers

Effects of days on feed on performance and carcass characteristics of crossbred beef × dairy heifers

Busulfan Exposure Target Attainment in Adults Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: A Single Day Versus a Multiple Day Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Regimen

Busulfan exposure has previously been linked to clinical outcomes, hence the need for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Study objective was to evaluate the effect of day 1 TDM-guided dosing (regimen d1) versus days 1 + 2 TDM-guided dosing (regimen d1 + 2) on attaining adequate busulfan exposure. In this observational study, we included all adults who received an allogeneic HCT with intravenous once daily busulfan over 4 days as part of the conditioning regimen at the University Medical Centre Utrecht or between July 31, 2014 and November 12, 2021. The primary outcome was attainment of the therapeutic busulfan target (cumulative area under the curve [AUCcum] 80-100 mg*h/L). Dose adjustment was based on the estimated AUC of the preceding dosing day(s). Additional TDM was performed in the event of large dose adjustments (≥25%). The choice of TDM regimen was solely based on the first day the busulfan dose was administered (regimen d1 + 2 occurred when conditioning started on a Saturday). In all patients, blood sampling was performed on day 4 for evaluation. The AUCcum was estimated using a validated population pharmacokinetic model. Busulfan target exposure was compared between both TDM regimen groups using a propensity score adjusted logistic regression model. The variance in the AUCcum between the TDM regimens was compared using the F-test. Patients were stratified for age (categorical). In regimen d1, 87.6% (n = 113/129) attained a therapeutic busulfan exposure, while in regimen d1 + 2 a proportion of 97.4% was found (n = 74/76, adjusted odds ratio for non-therapeutic AUC = 0.19, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.04-0.89). Variance of busulfan exposure in the regimen d1 group (SD = 6.8 mg*h/L) differed significantly from the variance in the regimen d1 + 2 group (SD = 3.6 mg*h/L, F-test, P < .001). Performing busulfan TDM on both day 1 and day 2, rather than only on day 1, improves busulfan target exposure attainment in adults undergoing HCT, provided that subsequent TDM is carried out if required.

Periparturient Changes in Voluntary Intake, Digestibility, and Performance of Grazing Zebu Beef Cows with or without Protein Supplementation.

We aimed to understand the changes in nutritional parameters and performance of beef cows during the peripartum, whether receiving or not receiving protein supplements. Forty cows were used, divided into two treatments: CON-mineral mix and SUP-protein supplementation. Digestibility trial was performed at 45, 30, and 15 days (d) before the parturition and at 20 and 40 d of lactation. The ADG of cows pre- and postpartum was recorded along with the BCS in gestational (GT) and maternal (MT) tissues in the prepartum. There was an effect of treatment and period (p ≤ 0.044) for intakes of DM and CP. The forage intake was similar (p > 0.90) but varied with the effect of days related to parturition (p < 0.001). There was a 14.37% decrease in DM intake from d -30 to d -15 of prepartum. In the postpartum, at 20 d of lactation, there was an increase of 72.7% in relation to d -15 of prepartum. No differences were observed in postpartum ADG or BCS at parturition and postpartum (p ≥ 0.12). However, higher total and MT ADG (p ≤ 0.02) were observed in animals receiving supplementation, while ADG in GT remained similar (p > 0.14). In conclusion, there is a decrease in intake for pregnant cows close to parturition and greater performance of animals supplemented in prepartum.

The Effect of Temperature on the Inflorescence Formation Model for Phalaenopsis.

Phalaenopsis orchids are a popular ornamental plant in the flower market. During some festivals, demand increases significantly. These mature orchids must be placed in cooling rooms for inflorescence formation at specific times to increase the financial return from their sale. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of day and night temperatures on the inflorescence formation percentage using the proposed sigmoid model. Four varieties that are cultured in different vegetative temperature regimes are placed in a cooling room. An empirical inflorescence formation model is proposed as a management tool to predict the inflorescence formation percentage for Phalaenopsis. Some data sets from previous studies are used for comparison. The accumulation temperature is calculated using the day and night temperatures and is an index to predict the inflorescence formation percentage. The results show that there is a similar distribution of the inflorescence formation percentage and accumulation temperature for the four varieties. The proposed sigmoid model has a good fitting ability for the inflorescence formation percentage. This inflorescence formation model from the pooled data sets allows quantitative microclimate management of the vegetative and cooling room.

275 Assessment of changes in hemoglobin concentration (Hb) in sows and their offspring over two consecutive reproductive cycles

Abstract There remains a knowledge gap regarding changes in hematological parameters, such as Hb, throughout the reproductive cycle of a sow. The principle aim of this study was to assess Hb concentartions in sows and their offspring over at least two consecutive reproductive cycles. Blood Hb measurements were initiated during the gilt stage and continued through parities 1 and 2, with measurements taken at six time points (d 30, 60, 90, and 112 of gestation; d 2 and 17 of lactation) involving a total of 13 sows. Sow body weight (BW) during gestation was 193.2 ± 38.1 kg for parity 1 and 220.7 ± 26.2 kg for parity 2; in lactation, sow BW was 201.5 ± 14.3 kg for parity 1 and 214.0 ± 19.6 kg for parity 2. Sow daily iron (Fe) intake, based on analyzed Fe content, was 0.621 ± 0.06 g during gestation and 1.79 ± 0.15 g during lactation across parities 1 and 2, which represents more than a 2-fold greater Fe intake than NRC 2012 requirement estimates. All liveborn piglets (n = 204 for parity 1; n = 201 for parity 2) underwent Hb measurements. Blood Hb concentrations were assessed within 24 h of birth before iron supplementation (200 mg iron dextran) and again at 17 d of age. Sows and piglets were classified as either anemic (Hb &amp;lt; 10 g/dL) or non-anemic (Hb ≥ 10 g/dL). Analysis of variance included the main effect of day, parity and their interaction based on Tukey’s comparison. In gestation Hb was less (P = 0.03) at d 90 in parity 1 and at d 90 and 112 in parity 2 (Table 1). Across parity, Hb was less (P = 0.02) at d 60 in parity 2. In lactation, Hb was least (P = 0.0002) at d 17 in parity 1 where sows were deemed anemic; in parity 2, sows were deemed anemic throughout lactation. The total number of piglets born and born alive was 17.15 ± 2.03 and 16.0 ± 1.9, respectively, for parity 1, and 17.0 ± 3.11 and 15.85 ± 2.41, respectively, for parity 2. Regardless of parity, piglet Hb was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.02) at weaning compared with birth. However, Hb concentrations were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) at both time points in parity 2 piglets. There was a reduced incidence of anemia at birth (39.1% vs. 59.02%, respectively) and weaning (14.2% vs 36.1%, respectively) among piglets born in parity 2 compared with parity 1. The decline in sow Hb status with parity, particularly in lactation, suggests the need to explore strategies to improve Hb in sows with advancing parity. Alternatively, piglet Hb status improved with parity, indicating a need to modify iron supplementation methods to facilitate greater Hb in parity 1 litters.

Effect of Day 3 cell number on the live birth rate of vitrified-warmed Day 5 single blastocyst transfer in young women.

Previous studies have reported inconsistent results regarding blastocyst selection with a high day 3 (D3) cell number and the eventual pregnancy outcomes. Thus, in this study, the relationship between the D3 cell number and clinical outcomes of day 5 single blastocyst transfer (SBT) in vitrified-warmed transfer cycles was investigated. Our retrospective study included 1144day 5 SBT in vitrified-warmed cycles between February 2016 and February 2021. All cycles were the first vitrified-warmed cycles, and the female patients were less than 35 years of age. Based on the D3 cell number, the cycles were divided into four groups, as follows: group A (3-7 cells, n = 130); group B (8-9 cells, n = 621); group C (10-12 cells, n = 328); and group D (13-16 cells, n = 65). The differences in the live birth rate (LBR), clinical pregnancy rate, and miscarriage rate were examined among the four groups. The LBR and clinical pregnancy rate increased with the D3 cell number (P < 0.01). No significant difference was found in the miscarriage rate among the groups (P = 0.055). After adjusting for confounding factors, the LBR was significantly higher in groups C (odds ratio [OR] = 1.477, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.124-1.941, P = 0.005) and D (OR = 2.000, 95% CI: 1.166-3.429, P = 0.012) than in group B. A high D3 cell number (> 9 cells) was associated with a high LBR in the vitrified-warmed day 5 SBT cycles of patients < 35 years of age. The cell number of D3 embryos can be an important reference indicator for blastocyst selection. Among blastocysts with the same morphological score, those with > 9 cells on D3 can be preferentially selected for transplantation.