Reducing environmental impacts of feed using multiobjective formulation: What benefits at the farm gate for pig and broiler production?

Feed production is the main contributor to several environmental impacts of livestock. To decrease environmental impacts of feed, those of feedstuffs should be considered during formulation. In particular, multiobjective feed formulation (MOF) can help reduce several environmental impacts simultaneously while keeping any increase in feed price moderate. The objective of this study was to assess environmental benefits of MOF at the farm gate for fattening pigs and broilers. For pigs, three feeding strategies were tested: classic 2-phase (2P), 2-phase with lower net energy content (2P −), and multiphase (MP). For broilers, two strategies were tested: classic 3-phase (3P) and 3-phase with higher digestible amino acid contents and lower metabolisable energy content (3P +). Diets were formulated using both least-cost formulation (LCF) and MOF, yielding six pig scenarios and four broiler scenarios. Environmental impacts at the farm gate were estimated using a modelling approach based on life cycle assessment. Indicators for six impact categories were then calculated: climate change (CC), cumulative non-renewable energy demand (CEDNR), acidification (AC), eutrophication (EU), land occupation (LO), and phosphorus demand (PD). As expected, MOF had lower farm-gate impacts than LCF (as much as − 13%), but the degree of decrease varied by feeding strategy and impact. For pigs, MOF was equally effective in all strategies at reducing PD (− 6 to − 9%) and AC (− 2%). In contrast, MOF was more effective in 2P and 2P − at decreasing CC (− 5% to − 7%), LO (− 9% to − 13%) and EU (− 6% to − 8%) than in MP (CC: − 2%; LO: − 4%; EU: − 3%). The benefit of MOF was found greater in 2P (− 7%) than in other pig strategies for CEDNR (− 3 to + 0%). For broilers, MOF was equally effective in both strategies tested at decreasing PD (− 12%), AC (− 2%), and EU (− 4%). For CC and CEDNR, MOF was more effective in 3P (CC: − 9%; CEDNR: − 11%) than 3P + (− 6% for both impacts), but not for LO (+ 3% in 3P vs − 1% in 3P +). These differences were due mainly to differences in animal performance (especially feed conversion ratio) among the strategies tested. Finally, in all scenarios, gross margin at the farm gate decreased with MOF comparatively to LCF (pigs: − 3% to − 11%); broilers: − 7% to − 11%). These results demonstrate the importance of comprehensive economic and environmental optimisation of feeding strategies by simultaneously considering feed impacts, animal performance, and manure management. To do so, further research is therefore required to develop new modelling tools.     

Genetic analysis of Greek sheep breeds using microsatellite markers for setting conservation priorities

Ten Greek sheep breeds were analysed at 28 microsatellite markers in order to estimate their genetic diversity and differentiation. This study aims to provide information on the genetic structure of the breeds analysed and the ancestral populations, and give indications and proposals for the conservation strategies. The breeds included were the local sheep breeds raised in different regions of Greece. In total, 310 animals were sampled. Non-biased average expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.68 ± 0.134 (Skopelos breed) to 0.76 ± 0.103 (Karagouniko breed) with an average of 0.74, while the average observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.626 ± 0.132 (Skopelos) to 0.74 ± 0.135 (Kefallenias). Estimates of inbreeding coefficient (Fis) were significant for all breeds studied, except for Kefallenias and Lesvos breeds (P < 0.05). The results of the phylogenetic relationships are in accordance with the geographical location of the breeds, the history of the origin of the breeds and the breeding practices. The phylogenetic tree showed three groupings according to the bootstrapping values. Correspondence analysis showed the isolation of the Skopelos breed and the grouping of Sfakia and Anogeiano breeds in a separate cluster.     

Analyses of the genetic relationships between lactose,somatic cell score,and growth traits in Simmental cattle

Lactose and somatic cell score (SCS) are major economic traits of milk. However, for many countries, they are typically not directly considered in the national genetic evaluation of Simmental cattle. This study aimed to estimate the genetic relationships between lactose, SCS, and growth traits of Simmental cattle to provide information for the national genetic evaluation of the selection of traits of this cattle population. The data of 1781 animals with 6519 records obtained over a period of 41 years (1975–2016) were collected from Xinjiang Hutubi Farm, China. The analyzed traits included 305 days of milk yield (305MY), milk fat percentage (MFP), milk protein percentage (MPP), milk lactose percentage (MLP), total solids (TS), SCS, body height (BH), body length (BL), chest girth (CG), abdominal circumference (AC), rump width (RW), rump length (RL), leg circumference (LC), and cannon circumference (CC). The multiple-trait repeatability model was adopted to estimate (co)variance components using the average information-restricted maximum likelihood method implemented using the DMU statistical package. The heritability estimates for milk components and growth traits ranged from 0.09 (SCS) to 0.51 (BH). Genetic correlations for milk components ranged from 0.03 ± 0.14 (MFP and MLP) to 0.81 ± 0.08 (MFP and MPP). Genetic correlation between MLP and SCS was moderate and negative (− 0.50 ± 0.15) compared with that among other traits. Genetic correlations between the milk components and growth traits ranged from 0.00 ± 0.07 (305MY and RW) to − 0.64 ± 0.15 (MLP and BL). Genetic correlations of BL, LC, RW, and RL with MLP were moderate to high and negative ranging from − 0.39 to − 0.64. Somatic cell score showed the highest correlation with BL (0.41) followed by LC (0.21). An increase in MLP would result in an increase in 305MY or TS and a decrease in BL, LC, RW, and RL. Additionally, a decrease in SCS would occur with the selection of increased MLP and reduced BL. We conclude that selection based on easily and inexpensively measured growth traits could improve the milk quality from Simmental cattle.     

Development of equations to predict carcass weight,empty body gain,and retained energy of Zebu beef cattle

The accurate supply of energy is essential to optimize livestock productivity and profitability. Furthermore, replacing empty BW gain (EBG) with carcass gain (CG) might be a suitable alternative to estimate the retained energy (RE) of beef cattle. Thus, this multi-analysis study was conducted aiming to estimate and validate new equations to predict carcass weight (CW), EBG, and RE of Zebu, beef crossbred, and dairy crossbred. A database composed by 1 112 animals encompassing bulls, steers, heifers of different genetic groups (Zebu, beef crossbred, and dairy crossbred), and two types of slaughter plants (commercial and experimental) was used for generating the new CW equation. For the development of the EBG and RE equations, a database of 636 observations composed of bulls, steers, and heifers of different genetic groups (Zebu, beef crossbred, and dairy crossbred) was assembled. The validation of new equations was performed using independent databases composed by 137 observations (80 for CW and 57 for EBG and RE). The new approaches for EBG and RE validation also included data from our research group studies (Inside) and independent data from literature publications (Outside). Furthermore, the new RE equation was compared to the current model devised by the nutritional requirements, diet formulation, and performance prediction of Zebu and crossbred cattle (BR-CORTE, 2016). Validation analyses were performed by using the Model Evaluation System (MES; 3.1.13, College Station, US). The CW was accurately estimated by the new equation when using both commercial and experimental data. Also, the equations developed in this study accurately estimated EBG and RE using both inside and outside data. In conclusion, equations proposed in this study accurately and precisely estimated CW, EBG, and RE of Zebu beef cattle that composed validation data set. Therefore, we suggest the following equations to estimate CW, EBG, and RE of Zebu cattle: CW, kg = − 11.0_±1.56 + P + ((0.609_±0.005 + G + B) × SBW); EBG (kg) = 0.044_±0.017 + 1.47_±0.026 × CG; RE (MJ/d) = 4.184 × (0.082_±0.002 × EQEBW^0.75 × CG^0.777±0.039), where P = slaughter plant effect, if commercial = − 10.98, if experimental = 0; G = gender effect, if steer = 0, if bull = 0.008169 and if heifer = − 0.00612; B = genotype effect, if Zebu = 0, if dairy crossbreds = − 0.03301 and if beef crossbreds = − 0.01595; SBW = shrunk BW; CG = carcass gain; EQEBW = equivalent empty BW.     

Genetic diversity and population structure of Sicilian sheep breeds using microsatellite markers

Genetic diversity studies in domestic animals aim at evaluating genetic variation within and across breeds mainly for conservation purposes. In Sicily, dairy sheep production represents an important resource for hilly and mountain areas economy. Their milk is used for the production of traditional raw milk cheeses, sometimes protected designation of origin (PDO) cheeses. In some cases, the quality of these products is linked to a specific breed, i.e. mono-breed labelled cheeses and it is therefore important to be able to distinguish the milk of a breed from that of others, in order to guarantee both the consumer and the breed itself. In order to investigate the genetic structure and to perform an assignment test, a total of 331 individuals (Barbaresca, BAR n = 57, Comisana, COM n = 65, Pinzirita, PIN n = 75, Sarda, SAR n = 64, and Valle del Belice, VDB n = 70) were analysed using a panel of 20 microsatellite markers. A total of 259 alleles were observed with average polymorphic information content equal to 0.76, showing that the microsatellites panel used was highly informative. Estimates of observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.65 in the BAR breed to 0.75 in the COM breed. The low value of genetic differentiation among breeds (F_st = 0.049) may indicate that these breeds are little differentiated probably due to common history and breeding practices. The low F_is and F_it values indicated low level of inbreeding within and among breeds. The unrooted neighbor-joining dendrogram obtained from the Reynold's genetic distances, and factorial correspondence analysis revealed a separation between BAR and the other sheep breeds. Recent migration rates were estimated, showing that four out of the five breeds have not received a significant proportion of migrants. Only for the PIN breed a recent introgression rate from the VDB breed (7.2%) was observed. The Bayesian assignment test showed that BAR and SAR breeds had a more definite genetic structure (proportion of assignment of 92% and 86.6%, respectively), whereas the lowest assignment value was found in the PIN breed (67.1%). Our results indicated high genetic variability, low inbreeding and low genetic differentiation, except for BAR breed, and were in accordance with geographical location, history, and breeding practices. The low robustness of the assignment test makes it unfeasible for traceability purposes, due to the high level of admixture, in particular for COM, PIN and VDB.     

Synthesis,in vitro evaluation and molecular docking studies of novel amide linked triazolyl glycoconjugates as new inhibitors of α-glucosidase

A series of N-substituted amide linked triazolyl β-d-glucopyranoside derivatives (4a-l) were synthesized and their in vitro inhibitory activity against yeast α-glucosidase enzyme [EC.3.2.1.20] was assessed. Compounds 4e (IC₅₀ = 156.06 μM), 4f (IC₅₀ = 147.94 μM), 4k (IC₅₀ = 127.71 μM) and 4l (IC₅₀ = 121.33 μM) were identified as the most potent inhibitors for α-glucosidase as compared to acarbose (IC₅₀ = 130.98 μM) under the same in vitro experimental conditions. Kinetic study showed that both 4e and 4f inhibit the enzyme in a competitive manner with p-nitrophenyl α-d-glucopyranoside as substrate. Molecular docking studies of 4e, 4f, 4k and 4l were also carried out using homology model of α-glucosidase to find out the binding modes responsible for the inhibitory activity. This study revealed that the binding affinity of compounds 4e, 4f, 4k and 4l for α-glucosidase were −8.2, −8.6, −8.3 and −8.5 kcal/mol respectively, compared to that of acarbose (−8.9 kcal/mol). The results suggest that the N-substituted amide linked triazole glycoconjugates can reasonably mimic the substrates for the yeast α-glucosidase.     

Gestation length variation in domesticated horses and its relation to breed and body size diversity

The domestication process and selective breeding reportedly alter some life history variables. In horses, it has been claimed that gestation length is particularly variable. Some of the factors influencing gestation length are already known and can be grouped into environmental and genetic factors, but the effects of breed and body size have rarely been evaluated. In this study we tested the influence of breed and body size on gestation length for 25 horse breeds from Central Europe. The mean gestation length for all breeds was 342.3 ± 10.2 days and we found significant differences among breeds with a variation of up to 11 days. Body size did not show a significant correlation with gestation length. Our data suggest that breed affiliation explains part of the large variability of gestation length in horses.     

Phenotypic and genetic relationships between udder morphology and udder health in dairy ewes

The aim of this paper was studying the phenotypic and genetic relationships between udder morphology traits and udder health in dairy sheep. From 2000 to 2008 udder traits, somatic cell count (SCC) and clinical mastitis cases were recorded in an experimental flock consisting each year of around 900 ewes. A logistic regression was performed to evaluate the risk for a ewe of showing either a mastitis or at least 2 daily SCC records greater than 1 × 10⁶ cells/ml in one of its lactations as function of udder traits scored in 1st lactation. 1587 individual udder scores and 39,950 SCC daily records were used for the analysis. Secondly, genetic correlation between lactation mean of somatic cell score and udder traits were estimated by a REML method applied to four bi-trait animal models, using data from 2251 primiparous ewes. Logistic regression results indicated that the risk of mastitis or high SCC values during the productive life increased as the cistern height increased and the degree of udder suspension and udder depth decreased. This suggests that the appraisal of the udder is a useful tool for culling decision aimed at increasing the sanitary status of the flock. The genetic correlation between lactation SCS and udder traits were favourable for udder depth (−0.50 ± 0.12), teat placement (0.39 ± 0.011) and degree of udder suspension (−0.42 ± 0.011) and closed to zero for the degree of separation of the two halves. Thus selection for udder morphology, already implemented in some dairy sheep breeds with the aim of improving machine milkability, will lead to a favourable correlated genetic response on SCC.     

Effect of initial freezing temperature on the semen characteristics of frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa in a semi-arid tropical environment

Ram spermatozoa are sensitive to extreme changes in temperature during the freeze-thaw process. The degree of damage depends on a combined effect of various factors including initial freezing temperature. The present study was conducted to observe the effect of initial freezing temperature on post-thawing motility of ram spermatozoa of native and crossbred rams maintained in a semi-arid tropical environment. Good quality semen obtained from native Malpura and crossbred Bharat Merino rams were pooled within breed and diluted at a rate of 1000 million spermatozoa per milliliter in TEST—yolk–glycerol extender. Diluted semen samples were loaded in 0.25 ml straws and cooled to −25, −75 or −125 °C freezing temperature at the rate of −25 °C/min under controlled conditions before plunging into liquid nitrogen for storage. The thawing of straws was performed at 50 °C in a water bath for 10 s and motility characteristics of the frozen-thawed spermatozoa were assessed by a computer-assisted spermatozoa analysis technique. Initial freezing temperature significantly affected the post-thawing motility of sperm in both the breeds. The post-thawing % motility and rapid motile spermatozoa were significantly higher at initial freezing temperature of −125 °C and lower at −25 or −75 °C. The percentage medium motile sperm were similar at all three initial freezing temperatures. The percentage of slow motile and linearity of sperm varied (P<0.01) between the different freezing temperatures. The curvilinear velocity, average path velocity and straight line velocity of spermatozoa were higher (P<0.01) at −125 °C than −25 or −75 °C. Although the lateral head displacement of spermatozoa did not vary significantly between the different initial freezing temperatures, the stroke frequency was significantly lower at −25 °C than −75 or −125 °C. Except for % linearity, the average path velocity and straight line velocity, other spermatozoa characteristics were not significantly different between breeds. The interaction between freezing temperature and breed was significant only for the % motility and linearity of the spermatozoa. The study indicates that initial freezing temperature has a significant effect on spermatozoa motility and velocity following post-thawing. The best motile spermatozoa following thawing were achieved at −125 °C freezing temperature.     

Drinks containing anthocyanin-rich blackcurrant extract decrease postprandial blood glucose,insulin and incretin concentrations

Blackcurrants are rich in polyphenolic glycosides called anthocyanins, which may inhibit postprandial glycemia. The aim was to determine the dose-dependent effects of blackcurrant extract on postprandial glycemia. Men and postmenopausal women (14 M, 9 W, mean age 46 years, S.D.=14) were enrolled into a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial. Low sugar fruit drinks containing blackcurrant extract providing 150-mg (L-BE), 300-mg (M-BE) and 600-mg (H-BE) total anthocyanins or no blackcurrant extract (CON) were administered immediately before a high-carbohydrate meal. Plasma glucose, insulin and incretins (GIP and GLP-1) were measured 0–120 min, and plasma 8-isoprostane F_2α, together with arterial stiffness by digital volume pulse (DVP) was measured at 0 and 120 min. Early plasma glucose response was significantly reduced following H-BE (n=22), relative to CON, with a mean difference (95% CI) in area over baseline (AOB) 0-30 min of −0.34 mmol/l.h (−0.56, −0.11, P<.005); there were no differences between the intermediate doses and placebo. Plasma insulin concentrations (AOB 0–30 min) were similarly reduced. Plasma GIP concentrations (AOB 0–120 min) were significantly reduced following H-BE, with a mean difference of −46.6 ng/l.h (−66.7, −26.5, P<.0001) compared to CON. Plasma GLP-1 concentrations were reduced following H-BE at 90 min. There were no effects on 8-isoprostane F_2α or vascular function. Consumption of blackcurrant extract in amounts roughly equivalent to 100-g blackcurrants reduced postprandial glycemia, insulinemia and incretin secretion, which suggests that inclusion of blackcurrant polyphenols in foods may provide cardio-metabolic health benefits. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01706653.     

Genetic and phylogenetic studies of Chinese native sheep breeds (Ovis aries) based on mtDNA D-loop sequences

To determine the genetic diversity and the origin of Chinese sheep, we analyzed 83 complete sequences of mtDNA D-loop from nine Chinese sheep breeds and a foreign breed, together with nine sheep and cattle available sequences from GenBank. The length of the sequences was considerably variable between 1103 and 1225 bp. The hapolotype diversity was 92.7%. The nucleotide diversity was 3.058%. And the mean nucleotide composition of the 83 sequences was 32.9% A, 29.8% T, 22.9% C and 14.4% G, respectively. The NJ phylogenetic tree (the number of replications of bootstrap test is 1000) revealed that there were three distinct major domestic sheep lineages (termed as lineages A–C) in the 10 breeds. The result indicated that Chinese native sheep breeds derive from three different maternal sources. The mismatch distribution analysis showed that the Fs values were −25.15, −12.28, −8.60 for the lineages A–C, respectively (P < 0.01), which suggested that atleast one population expansion events occur in the demographic history of Chinese sheep breeds.     

Effects of nutrient restriction on the metabolic profile of Bos indicus-influenced and B. taurus suckled beef cows

Recent research from our group demonstrated that Bos indicus-influenced suckled beef cows had greater resilience to withstand nutrient restriction and establish pregnancy compared with B. taurus cows exposed to the same conditions. To further understand these findings, differences in metabolic profile between these same B. indicus-influenced and B. taurus females were explored. Suckled beef cows (n = 134) were enrolled in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. On day − 21, Angus (AN; Bos taurus) and Brangus (BN; B. indicus-influenced) cows were randomly assigned to 1) a diet that met daily energy maintenance requirements (MAINT), or 2) a diet that restricted intake to 70% of the daily energy maintenance requirements (RESTR). Cows were exposed to an estrus synchronization protocol and received an embryo 7 d after ovulation was pharmacologically induced on day 0. Blood samples were collected on days − 21 and 19 to determine circulating concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), insulin, glucose, and IGF-1. Pregnancy status after embryo transfer was determined on day 28. As a consequence of the proposed diets, cows in the RESTR diet had less body condition score (BCS) on day 19 (P = 0.008) across breed types. Moreover, BCS change from day − 21 to 19 was included as independent covariate into subsequent analyses, allowing for the comparison of breed types under an equivalent level of body reserve mobilization. A breed × diet interaction was observed for plasma insulin (P = 0.03) and IGF-1 (P = 0.04) on day 19, where AN–RESTR cows had less plasma concentrations on day 19 compared with AN–MAINT cows. Diets did not impact (P > 0.10) plasma insulin and IGF-1 concentrations in BN cows. No diet or breed effects were observed in circulating concentrations of NEFA, BHB, and glucose (P > 0.10). Across breed types and nutritional treatment, there was positive linear effect (P ≤ 0.04) of plasma concentrations of insulin and IGF-1 on the probability of pregnancy to fixed-time embryo transfer. In summary, the negative impacts of nutrient restriction on the somatotropic axis, independently of body tissue mobilization, were heightened in Bos taurus females compared with B. indicus-influenced cohorts, which corroborate with the differences observed in fertility between these subspecies.     

Genetic parameters of animal traits associated with coccidian and nematode parasite load and growth in Scottish Blackface sheep

Gastrointestinal parasitism is a global problem for grazing ruminants which can be addressed in a sustainable way through breeding animals to be more resistant to disease. This study estimates the genetic parameters of common and new disease phenotypes associated with natural nematode and coccidian infection in Scottish Blackface sheep to underpin future genetic improvement strategies for parasite control. Data on faecal egg counts (FEC) from different species of strongyle parasites and faecal oocyst counts (FOC) from coccidian parasites were collected on 3-month-old lambs together with a faecal soiling score in the breech area dagginess (DAG) and live weight (LWT). Faecal count data were obtained for Strongyles (FEC_S), Nematodirus (FEC_N) and Coccidia (FOC). Data from 3 731 lambs sampled between 2011 and 2017 were included. Faecal egg counts and DAG records were log-transformed prior to analysis. Data were analysed using linear mixed models. Average age at sampling was 92 days with a mean LWT of 24.5 kg. Faecal soiling was not evident in 69% of lambs. Coccidia were the most prevalent parasite (99.5%), while Strongyles and Nematodirus had a prevalence of 95.4% and 72.7%, respectively. Heritability estimates (± SE) were 0.16 ± 0.03, 0.17 ± 0.03, 0.09 ± 0.03, 0.09 ± 0.03 and 0.33 ± 0.04 for FEC_S, FEC_N, FOC, DAG and LWT, respectively. Strongyles faecal egg count had a strong and positive genetic correlation with FEC_N (0.74 ± 0.09) and a moderate positive correlation with FOC (0.39 ± 0.15) while DAG was negatively genetically correlated with LWT (− 0.33 ± 0.15). The significant positive genetic correlations between FEC_S, FEC_N and FOC at 3 months of age show that co-selection of sheep for resistance to these different parasites is feasible. Selection for increased resistance to parasite infection is not expected to adversely affect live BW, as no significant antagonistic genetic correlations were found between LWT and FEC. There were significant antagonistic phenotypic and genetic relationships between DAG and LWT being − 0.19 ± 0.02 and − 0.33 ± 0.15, respectively, indicating that the expression of the manifestation of disease in lambs may be a more meaningful indicator of the impact of parasite burden on productivity.     

Exploring potential risk factors of antimicrobial use in beef cattle

Livestock species are major contributors to the increase of antimicrobial (AM) resistance which is a worldwide concern for both human and animal health. The over-use of AM is widely acknowledged, however, unlike pigs, poultry and dairy cattle, knowledge on potential risk factors affecting AM usage (AMU) in beef industry is limited. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the impact of farm, breed, sex and season of arrival of purchased beef cattle on AMU in Italian beef cattle. Data on 1 063 batches were collected from January 2016 to April 2019 from specialised beef fattening farms located in the north of Italy. Information on breed, sex, date of arrival, performance traits and AM agents used on farm was collected, and the treatment incidence 100 (TI100) indexes per batch were calculated using the defined daily dose animal estimated according to Italian summaries of product characteristics. Factors affecting TI100 indexes were investigated using a cross-classified multilevel model. Farms largely differed in terms of AMU. Males had greater AMU than females (P < 0.001), likely due to their higher susceptibility to disease. Statistically significant differences were observed between seasons of arrival with summer and spring having lower TI100 indexes than winter and autumn (P < 0.001). Indeed, winter is commonly linked to an increase in respiratory diseases in beef cattle. Finally, the TI100it indexes tended to be different among breeds with Blonde d'Aquitaine and Limousine having greater AMU compared to the other breeds. Results of this study provided valuable information on potential risk factors of AMU in beef production which may be useful to address its reduction. For instance, the development of tailored management strategies for specific breeds, targeted approaches to improve the health of males as well as greater care towards batches purchased in winter are possible advice to implement on-farm for a more responsible AM stewardship.     

Improvement in Pancreatic β-Cell Function with Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation in Vitamin D-Deficient Nondiabetic Subjects

ObjectiveThere are varied reports on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on β-cell function and plasma glucose levels. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on β-cell function and plasma glucose levels in subjects with vitamin D deficiency.MethodsNondiabetic subjects (N = 48) were screened for their serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), albumin, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) status. Subjects with 25-OHD deficiency underwent a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. Cholecalciferol (9,570 international units [IU]/day; tolerable upper intake level, 10,000 IU/day; according to the Endocrine Society guidelines for vitamin D supplementation) and calcium (1 g/day) were supplemented.ResultsThirty-seven patients with 25-OHD deficiency participated in the study. The baseline and postvitamin D/calcium supplementation and the difference (corrected) were: serum calcium, 9 ± 0.33 and 8.33 ± 1.09 mg/dL (− 0.66 ± 1.11 mg/dL); 25-OHD, 8.75 ± 4.75 and 36.83 ± 18.68 ng/mL (28.00 ± 18.33 ng/mL); PTH, 57.9 ± 29.3 and 36.33 ± 22.48 pg/mL (− 20.25 ± 22.45 pg/mL); fasting plasma glucose, 78.23 ± 7.60 and 73.47 ± 9.82 mg/dL (− 4.88 ± 10.65 mg/dL); and homeostasis model assessment-2–percent β-cell function C-peptide secretion (HOMA-2–%B C-PEP), 183.17 ± 88.74 and 194.67 ± 54.71 (11.38 ± 94.27). Significant differences were observed between baseline and post-vitamin D/calcium supplementation serum levels of corrected calcium (Z, − 3.751; P < .0001), 25-OHD (Z, − 4.9; P < .0001), intact PTH (Z, − 4.04; P < .0001), fasting plasma glucose (Z, − 2.7; P < .007), and HOMA-2–%B C-PEP (Z, − 1.923; P < .05) as determined by Wilcoxon signed rank test. Insulin resistance as measured by HOMA was unchanged.ConclusionOptimizing serum 25-OHD concentrations and supplementation with calcium improves fasting plasma glucose levels and β-cell secretory reserve. Larger randomized control studies are needed to determine if correction of 25-OHD deficiency will improve insulin secretion and prevent abnormalities of glucose homeostasis. (Endocr Pract. 2014;20:129-138)     

Patient-Led Versus Physician-Led Titration of Insulin Glargine in Patients with Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Multinational Atlas Study

ObjectiveSelf-adjustment of insulin dose is commonly practiced in Western patients with type 2 diabetes but is usually not performed in Asian patients. This multinational, 24-week, randomized study compared patient-led with physician-led titration of once-daily insulin glargine in Asian patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes who were on 2 oral glucose-lowering agents.MethodsPatient-led (n = 275) or physician-led (n = 277) subjects followed the same dose-titration algorithm guided by self-monitored fasting blood glucose (FBG; target, 110 mg/dL [6.1 mmol/L]). The primary endpoint was change in mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1c) at week 24 in the patient-led versus physician-led titration groups.ResultsPatient-led titration resulted in a significantly higher drop in HbA_1c value at 24 weeks when compared with physician-led titration (− 1.40% vs. − 1.25%; mean difference, − 0.15; 95% confidence interval, − 0.29 to 0.00; P = .043). Mean decrease in FBG was greatest in the patient-led group (− 2.85 mmol/L vs. − 2.48 mmol/L; P = .001). The improvements in HbA_1c and FBG were consistent across countries, with similar improvements in treatment satisfaction in both groups. Mean daily insulin dose was higher in the patient-led group (28.9 units vs. 22.2 units; P < .001). Target HbA_1c of < 7.0% without severe hypoglycemia was achieved in 40.0% and 32.9% in the patient-led and physician-led groups, respectively (P = .086). Severe hypoglycemia was not different in the 2 groups (0.7%), with an increase in nocturnal and symptomatic hypoglycemia in the patient-led arm.ConclusionPatient-led insulin glargine titration achieved near-target blood glucose levels in Asian patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes who were on 2 oral glucose-lowering drugs, demonstrating that Asian patients can self-uptitrate insulin dose effectively when guided. (Endocr Pract. 2015;21:143-157)     

Genetic relationship among somatic cell score and some milking traits in Holstein-Friesian primiparous cows milked by an automated milking system

The automated milking system provides breeders with a large amount of automatically collected information about each cow in herd that cannot be easily obtained in non-robotised systems. This knowledge can be used in breeding programs improving somatic cell count (SCC) level. The objective of this study was to estimate heritabilities and genetic correlations among test-day (TD) somatic cell score (SCS) and selected milking traits, such as daily milk yield (MY), milking frequency (MF), milking time (MT) and milking speed (MS), attachment time (AT) to single teat cups, electrical conductivity (EC) and milk temperature (MTEMP). Data were collected for 1 899 Polish Holstein-Friesian primiparous cows milked in an automatic milking system. Genetic parameters of the studied traits were estimated using Bayesian method via Gibbs sampling and two-trait random regression animal model with fixed effect of herd x TD, fixed regressions on days in milk (DIM) nested within age at calving by season of calving and RR for additive genetic and permanent environmental effects. Both fixed and RR were fitted with fourth-order Legendre polynomials on DIM. The estimated daily heritabilities were in the following ranges: MY – 0.162–0.338, MF – 0.156–0.444, MT – 0.090–0.320, MS – 0.252–0.665, AT – 0.105–0.394, EC – 0.269–0.466, MTEMP – 0.135–0.304 and SCS – 0.155–0.321. The heritabilities for traits expressed on a 305-d basis were moderate to high: 0.460 for MY, 0.514 for MF, 0.315 for MT, 0.431 for MS, 0.256 for AT, 0.386 for EC, 0.407 for MTEMP and 0.359 for SCS. Genetic correlations between traits on a 305-d basis showed that SCS was most strongly genetically correlated with MTEMP (0.572) and MS (0.480), whereas genetic relationships of SCS with MT (0.221) and EC (− 0.216) were moderate. Phenotypic correlations between traits on a 305-d basis were moderate or low. Somatic cell score was negatively phenotypically correlated with MY, MF and MT, with the highest relationship with MT (− 0.302). The largest positive phenotypic correlations were observed between SCS and MS (0.311) and with MTEMP (0.286). In summary, it is concluded that there is a chance to carry out effective selection for lower SCS and for some other traits, in particular MS and MTEMP. The obtained results are promising enough to conduct further research to evaluate how these traits can be used both to increase the accuracy of genetic evaluations of SCC and to improve udder health.     

Design,synthesis and biological evaluation of novel hydroxamic acids bearing artemisinin skeleton

A series of novel hydroxamic acids bearing artemisinin skeleton was designed and synthesized. Some compounds in this series exhibited moderate inhibition against the whole cell HDAC enzymes. Especially, compound 6g displayed potent cytotoxicity against three human cancer cell lines, including HepG2 (liver cancer), MCF-7 (breast cancer) and HL-60 (leukemia cancer), with IC₅₀ values of 2.50, 2.62 and 1.28 μg/mL, respectively. Docking studies performed with two potent compounds 6a and 6g using Autodock Vina showed that both compounds bound to HDAC2 with relatively high binding affinities from −7.1 to 7.0 kcal/mol compared to SAHA (−7.4 kcal/mol). It was found in this research that most of the target compounds seemed to be more cytotoxic toward blood cancer cells (HL-60) than liver (HepG2), and breast (MCF-7) cancer cells.     

Early life undernutrition and adult height: The Dutch famine of 1944–45

Current research shows strong associations between adult height and several positive outcomes such as higher cognitive skills, better earning capacity, increased chance of marriage and better health. It is therefore relevant to investigate the determinants of adult height. There is mixed evidence on the effects of undernutrition during early life on adult height. Therefore, our study aims at assessing the impact of undernutrition during gestation and at ages younger than 15 on adult height.We used data from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Exposure to undernutrition was determined by place of residence during the Dutch famine during World War II. Included respondents were born between 15 May 1930 and 1 November 1945 and lived in the northern part of the Netherlands during the famine period (n = 1008). Exposure data was collected using interviews and questionnaires and adult height was measured. Exposed and non-exposed respondents were classified in the age categories pregnancy- age 1 (n = 85), age 1–5 (n = 323), age 6–10 (n = 326) or puberty (age 11–15, n = 274). Linear regression analyses were used to test the associations of adult height with exposure. The robustness of the regression results was tested with sensitivity analyses.In the models adjusted for covariates (i.e., number of siblings, education level of parents, and year of birth) and stratified by gender, adult height was significantly shorter for females exposed at ages younger than 1 (−4.45 cm [−7.44–−1.47]) or at ages younger than 2 (−4.08 cm [−7.20–−0.94]). The results for males were only borderline significant for exposure under age 1 (−3.16 [−6.82–0.49]) and significant for exposure under age 2 (−4.09 cm [−7.20–−0.96]). Exposure to the Dutch famine at other ages was not consistently significantly associated with adult height.In terms of public health relevance, the study’s results further underpin the importance of supporting pregnant women and young parents exposed to undernutrition.     

Embryonic diapause in the Australian plague locust relative to parental experience of cumulative photophase decline

The Australian plague locust Chortoicetes terminifera (Walker) exhibits facultative embryonic diapause during autumn. To approximate natural photoperiod changes during late summer and autumn, locust nymphs were reared under different total declines in laboratory photophase (−0.5, −0.75, −1.0, −1.25, −1.5, −1.75, −2 h each lowered in 15 min steps) in a 24 h photoperiod to quantify any effect on the subsequent production of diapause eggs. Induction of diapause eggs was significantly affected by accumulated photoperiod decline experienced by the parental generation throughout all development stages from mid-instar nymph to fledgling adult. The incidence of embryonic diapause ranged from nil at −0.5 h to 86.6% diapause at −2 h. Continued declines in photoperiod for post-teneral locusts (transitioned from −1 h until fledging to −1.75 h) produced a further increase in the proportion of diapause eggs. The results were unaffected by time spent at any given photoperiod, despite a previously indicated maximal inductive photoperiod of 13.5 h being used as the mid-point of all treatments. Implications for the seasonal timing processes of photoperiodism in C. terminifera, which has a high migratory capacity and a latitudinal cline in the timing of diapause egg production across a broad geographic range, are discussed.