Body composition, gastrointestinal, and reproductive differences between broiler breeders fed using everyday or skip-a-day rearing programs.

Broiler breeder feed restriction practices have intensified as broiler feed efficiency has been improved. Skip-a-day (SAD) rearing regimen has controlled breeder growth, although this practice has become questionable for the modern breeder. We compared everyday (ED) and SAD programs and evaluated their impact on pullet growth performance, body composition, gastrointestinal tract development, and reproduction. At d 0, Ross 708 (Aviagen) pullet chicks (n = 1,778) were randomly assigned to 7 floor pens. Three pens were fed using the ED and 4 pens with SAD program through wk 21 using a chain-feeder system. ED and SAD grower diets were formulated to be isonutritious, with the only difference that ED diets had more crude fiber. Pullets (n = 44 per pen) were moved to 16 hen pens by treatment at wk 21 with 3 YP males (Aviagen) in each pen. All birds were fed common laying diets. In addition to BW data, sampled pullets and hens were scanned using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to obtain body bone density and composition. Hen performance and hatchery metrics were recorded through wk 60. ED birds were heavier with similar nutrient intake from wk 10 to 45 (P ≤ 0.013). Pullet uniformity was unaffected by feeding method (P ≥ 0.443). SAD pullets had less body fat at wk 19 (P = 0.034) compared to ED pullets, likely as a metabolic consequence of intermittent feeding. SAD birds had lower bone density at wk 7, 15, and 19 (P ≤ 0.026). At 4 wk of age, SAD pullets had less intestinal villi goblet cells compared to ED pullets (P ≤ 0.050), possibly explained by the effect that feed removal has on cell migration rates. Overall egg-specific gravity (P = 0.057) and hatch of fertile % (P = 0.088) tended to be higher in eggs from ED hens. Altogether, ED feeding increased young pullet intestinal goblet cells and increased both bone density and body fat at wk 19. ED program improved pullet feed conversion (2.6% less feed) and increased eggshell quality and hatch of fertile.

Impact of every-day versus skip-a-day feeding of broiler breeder pullets during rearing on body weight uniformity and reproductive performance.

Genetic selection for increased growth rate in broilers makes feed restriction programs such as skip-a-day (SAD) feeding, for broiler breeders essential to managing body weight, flock uniformity, and reproductive performance. The objective of this experiment was to compare intestinal development, weight gain of breeder pullets, and reproductive performance (22-45 wk) when fed a high fiber diet (3.8% crude fiber) on either an every-day (ED) or SAD basis during rearing. The same developer ration and feed amounts were fed to both treatments. Day-old Ross 708 pullet chicks (n = 912) were randomly distributed into 4 floor pens (n = 228/pen, 2 pens/treatment). At 20 wk of age all birds were weighed, and the coefficient of variation (CV) and average body weight was calculated for each treatment. Birds were then distributed into 10 lay pens (n = 35 birds/pen, 5 pens/treatment) at 21.5 wk of age. Light was increased from 8 h to 15.25 h at move to the lay facility, and all birds were daily fed for the remainder of the study. Data were analyzed by SAS SLICE using a significance level of P ≤ 0.05. During lay, 25% of the birds from each treatment were weighed weekly to adjust feed and monitor body weight. At 21 wk the ED fed pullets were more uniform (P = 0.0007) than the SAD fed pullets. Eggs were collected daily and set for hatch every 4 wk from 28 to 42 wk of age. No significant difference in the hatch data were observed. The ED fed birds achieved first egg at 166 d of age while the SAD fed birds achieved first egg at 173 d of age. Specific gravity was measured every 2 wk from 30 to 40 wk, with ED reared birds having better overall eggshell quality (P = 0.02) and greater egg weight (P < 0.0001) than those fed SAD. Feeding a high fiber diet on an ED basis during rearing, improved body weight uniformity in rearing, encouraged early lay, improved eggshell quality and increased egg weight.

The Effect of Different Species of Eimeria with Clostridium perfringens on Performance Parameters and Induction of Clinical Necrotic Enteritis in Broiler Chickens.

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is a common disease that causes great economic loss to the broiler industry due to mortality and reduced performance. Although Clostridium perfringens (CP) is a necessary component of this disease, coccidia species are a well-defined predisposing factor that exacerbates the condition. Different Eimeria species have been reported to influence NE to different degrees. In a pair of experiments, six different Eimeria species were evaluated in the presence and absence of C. perfringens. Male broiler chicks were housed in battery cages for the duration of both experiments. Feed conversion, body weight gain, and NE mortality were reported in both experiments. Experiment 1 challenged birds with E. maxima, E. acervulina, E. tenella, E. necatrix, and E. brunetti at day 13 and subsequently inoculated birds with CP on days 18, 19, and 20. In the second experiment, E. maxima, E. acervulina, E. tenella, and E. praecox were inoculated on day 15 and challenged with CP on days 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22 of the experiment. In the first experiment, E. acervulina, E. brunetti, E. maxima, and E. necatrix with the addition of CP all stimulated necrotic enteritis mortality. In the second experiment, E. praecox had minimal impact on performance during the challenge (14-23 days) while E. maxima + CP decreased body weight gain and increased mortality compared to the CP alone control. Eimeria maxima had the highest mortality (21.9%) in this experiment followed by E. acervulina (6.3%). The remaining Eimeria with added CP in the second experiment did not induce NE mortality. While the challenge with CP alone did not induce mortality, feed conversion was increased compared to the unchallenged control group. When using isolated Eimeria species in these experiments, disturbances created by E. brunetti and E. maxima resulted in the most-severe challenges. These experiments highlight the NE risk of these species of Eimeria and give insight into how other species interact with the host in a controlled CP challenge model.

Artículo regular­Efecto de diferentes especies de Eimeria con Clostridium perfringens sobre los parámetros de rendimiento y la inducción de enteritis necrótica clínica en pollos de engorde. La enteritis necrótica (NE) es una enfermedad común que causa grandes pérdidas económicas a la industria del pollo de engorde debido a la mortalidad y a la reducción del rendimiento. Aunque Clostridium perfringens (CP) es un componente necesario de esta enfermedad, las especies de coccidia son un factor predisponente bien definido que agrava la enfermedad. Se ha informado que diferentes especies de Eimeria influyen en la enteritis necrótica en diferentes grados. En un par de experimentos, se evaluaron seis especies diferentes de Eimeria en presencia y ausencia de C. perfringens. Pollos de engorde machos se alojaron en jaulas en batería durante la duración de ambos experimentos. En ambos experimentos se analizaron la conversión alimenticia, el aumento de peso corporal y la mortalidad por enteritis necrótica. En el Experimento 1 se desafió a las aves con E. maxima, E. acervulina, E. tenella, E. necatrix y E. brunetti en el día 13 y posteriormente se inoculó a las aves con C. perfringens en los días 18, 19 y 20. En el segundo experimento, E. maxima, E. acervulina, E. tenella y E. praecox se inocularon en el día 15 y se desafiaron con C. perfringens en los días 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 y 22 del experimento. En el primer experimento, E. acervulina, E. brunetti, E. maxima y E. necatrix junto con C. perfringens estimularon la mortalidad por enteritis necrótica. En el segundo experimento, E. praecox tuvo un impacto mínimo en el rendimiento durante el desafío (14 a 23 días) mientras que el tratamiento de E. maxima + C. perfringens disminuyó el aumento de peso corporal y aumentó la mortalidad en comparación con el control con solamente C. perfringens. Eimeria maxima tuvo la mayor mortalidad (21.9%) en este experimento seguida por E. acervulina (6.3%). El resto de las especies de Eimeria junto con C. perfringens en el segundo experimento no indujeron mortalidad por enteritis necrótica. Si bien el desafío con C. perfringens no solo no indujo mortalidad, sino que la conversión alimenticia aumentó en comparación con el grupo de control no desafiado. Cuando se utilizaron especies de Eimeria aisladas en estos experimentos, los problemas creados por E. brunetti y E. maxima resultaron en los desafíos más severos. Estos experimentos destacan el riesgo por enteritis necrótica con estas especies de Eimeria y dan una idea de cómo otras especies interactúan con el hospedador en un modelo de desafío con C. perfringens controlado.

Survey of coccidia on commercial broiler farms in Colombia: frequency of Eimeria species, anticoccidial sensitivity, and histopathology.

Avian coccidiosis continues to be one of the costliest diseases of commercial poultry. Understanding the epidemiology of Eimeria species in poultry flocks and the resistance profile to common anticoccidials is important to design effective disease prevention and control strategies. This study examined litter samples to estimate the prevalence and distribution of Eimeria species among broiler farms in 4 geographic regions of Colombia. A total of 245 litter samples were collected from 194 broiler farms across representative regions of poultry production between March and August 2019. The litter samples were processed for oocysts enumeration and speciation after sporulation. End-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was conducted to confirm the presence of Eimeria species. Anticoccidial sensitivity was determined with 160 Ross AP males in 5 treatment groups: noninfected, nonmedicated control (NNC), infected, nonmedicated control (INC), infected salinomycin treated (SAL, dose: 66 ppm), infected diclazuril treated (DIC, dose: 1 ppm), and infected methylbenzocuate-Clopidol treated (MET.CLO, dose: 100 ppm), All birds were orally inoculated with 1 × 106 sporulated oocysts using a 1 mL syringe, except for the NNC- group who received 1ml of water.Eimeria spp. were found in 236 (96.3%) out of 245 individual houses, representing 180 (92.8%) out of 194 farms. Eimeria acervulina was the most prevalent species (35.0%) followed by Eimeria tenella (30.9%), Eimeria maxima (20.4%), and other Eimeria spp. (13.6%). However, mixed species infections were common, with the most prevalent combination being mixtures of E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. tenella, and other species in 31.4% of the Eimeria-positive samples. PCR analysis identified E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. tenella, Eimeria necatrix, Eimeria mitis, and Eimeria praecox with variable prevalence across farms and regions. Anticoccidial sensitivity testing of strains of Eimeria isolated from 1 region, no treatment difference (P > 0.05) was observed in final weight (BW), weight gain (BWG) or feed conversion (FCR). For the global resistance index (GI) classified SAL and MET.CLO as good efficacy (85.79 and 85.49, respectively) and DIC as limited efficacy (74.52%). These results demonstrate the ubiquitous nature of Eimeria spp. and identifies the current state of sensitivity to commonly used anticoccidials in a region of poultry importance for Colombia.

Ocular exposure to infectious laryngotracheitis virus alters leukocyte subsets in the head-associated lymphoid tissues and trachea of 6-week-old White Leghorn chickens.

Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), an alphaherpesvirus, causes acute respiratory disease primarily infecting the upper respiratory tract and conjunctiva. Administration of live attenuated ILTV vaccines via eye drop, drinking water, or by coarse spray elicits protective mucosal immunity in the head-associated lymphoid tissues (HALT), of which conjunctiva-associated lymphoid tissue (CALT) and the Harderian gland (HG) are important tissue components. The trachea, a non-lymphoid tissue, also receives significant influx of inflammatory cells that dictate the outcome of ILTV infection. The objective of this study was to evaluate leukocyte cellular and phenotypic changes in the CALT, HG and trachea following ocular infection with a virulent ILTV strain. At 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 days post-infection, CALT, HG, and trachea of 6-week-old specific pathogen free (SPF) chickens ocularly-exposed to vehicle or virulent ILTV strain 63140 were dissociated, the cells enumerated and then phenotyped using flow cytometry. The CALT had the highest viral genomic load, which peaked on day 3. In ILTV-infected birds, the CALT had a decreased percentage of leukocytes. This was reflected by decreased numbers of MHCI+MHCII-, MHCI+MHCIIlow+, and CD4+ cells, while IgM+ and MHCI+MHCIIHigh+ expressing cell populations increased. In the HG, the most notable change in cells from ILTV-infected birds was a decrease in IgM expressing cells and histologically, an increase in Mott cells. In summary, an acute, ocular exposure to ILTV strain 63140 in young birds shifts subsets of lymphocyte populations in the CALT and HG with minimal impact on the trachea.

Evaluation of encapsulated sodium butyrate with varying releasing times on growth performance and necrotic enteritis mitigation in broilers.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of an encapsulated sodium butyrate (Na-B) with targeted releasing times on growth performance and mitigating the impact of necrotic enteritis in broilers. Two Na-B (30% of Na-B content) products, CMA (2 h releasing time) and CMP (3 to 4 h releasing time), were evaluated in a necrotic enteritis challenge model. The experiment consisted of 4 Na-B treatments (500 and 1,000 ppm of each product) plus 2 control (non-challenged and challenged). A total of 336 Cobb-Cobb male broilers were placed 8 birds per pen into 7 replicate battery cages. On day 14, birds from challenged treatments were orally gavaged with ∼5,000 oocysts of Eimeria maxima. On day 19, 20, and 21, the challenged birds received 1 mL of 108 cfu/mL Clostridium perfringens. Total pen body weight (BW) and feed weight were assessed on day 14, 21, and 28 for BW gain and mortality-adjusted feed conversion ratio (FCR). On day 21, 3 birds were randomly selected per pen and scored for intestinal lesions. The duodenum and jejunum tissue were collected on day 21 and 28 for quantifying intestinal histology. Results revealed that adding CMA at 500 ppm showed significantly higher cumulative BW gain (P < 0.05) compared to the challenged control from day 1 to 21. Adding CMA at 500 ppm also showed the equivalent cumulative FCR that was comparable to the non-challenged control on day 21. The CMA treatments and CMP at 1,000 ppm treatment showed equivalent BW gain compared to the non-challenge control after an additional 7 d post-challenge on day 28. Both products at 500 or 1,000 ppm had the significantly (P < 0.05) lower intestinal lesion scores compared to the challenged control. However, there was no difference in lesion scores among the Na-B treatments. The Na-B product targeted to release in the anterior intestinal tract shows the beneficial effects on BW gain and feed utilization efficiency in current challenge model. Adding encapsulated Na-B product has the potential to mitigate the impact of necrotic enteritis in broilers.

Self-monitoring has no adverse effect on disordered eating in adults seeking treatment for obesity.

OBJECTIVES: Although monitoring is considered a key component of effective behaviour change, the development of apps has allowed consumers to constantly evaluate their own diet, with little examination of what this might mean for eating behaviour. The aim of this study was to investigate whether self-monitoring of diet using the app MyFitnessPal or daily self-weighing increases the reported occurrence of eating disorders in adults with overweight/obesity following a weight loss programme. METHODS: Two hundred fifty adults with body mass index ≥ 27 kg/m2 received diet and exercise advice and were randomized to one of four monitoring strategies (daily self-weighing, MyFitnessPal, brief monthly consults or self-monitoring hunger) or control for 12 months. The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire 6.0 was used to assess eating disorder symptoms and behaviours for the previous 28 d at 0 and 12 months. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the global Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire score or the subscales between those in the four monitoring groups and the control at 12 months (all p ≥ 0.164), nor were there differences in binge eating, self-induced vomiting, laxative misuse or excessive exercise at 12 months (p ≥ 0.202). The overall prevalence of one or more episodes of binge eating was 53.6% at baseline and 50.6% at 12 months, with no change over time (p = 0.662). CONCLUSIONS: There was no evidence that self-monitoring, including using diet apps like MyFitnessPal or daily self-weighing, increases the reported occurrence of eating disorder behaviours in adults with overweight/obesity who are trying to lose weight.

MSR1 repeats modulate gene expression and affect risk of breast and prostate cancer.

Background: MSR1 repeats are a 36-38 bp minisatellite element that have recently been implicated in the regulation of gene expression, through copy number variation (CNV). Patients and methods: Bioinformatic and experimental methods were used to assess the distribution of MSR1 across the genome, evaluate the regulatory potential of such elements and explore the role of MSR1 elements in cancer, particularly non-familial breast cancer and prostate cancer. Results: MSR1s are predominately located at chromosome 19 and are functionally enriched in regulatory regions of the genome, particularly regions implicated in short-range regulatory activities (H3K27ac, H3K4me1 and H3K4me3). MSR1-regulated genes were found to have specific molecular roles, such as serine-protease activity (P = 4.80 × 10-7) and ion channel activity (P = 2.7 × 10-4). The kallikrein locus was found to contain a large number of MSR1 clusters, and at least six of these showed CNV. An MSR1 cluster was identified within KLK14, with 9 and 11 copies being normal variants. A significant association with the 9-copy allele and non-familial breast cancer was found in two independent populations (P = 0.004; P = 0.03). In the white British population, the minor allele conferred an increased risk of 1.21-3.51 times for all non-familial disease, or 1.7-5.3 times in early-onset disease. The 9-copy allele was also found to be associated with increased risk of prostate cancer in an independent population (odds ratio = 1.27-1.56; P =0.009). Conclusions: MSR1 repeats act as molecular switches that modulate gene expression. It is likely that CNV of MSR1 will affect risk of development of various forms of cancer, including that of breast and prostate. The MSR1 cluster at KLK14 represents the strongest risk factor identified to date in non-familial breast cancer and a significant risk factor for prostate cancer. Analysis of MSR1 genotype will allow development of precise stratification of disease risk and provide a novel target for therapeutic agents.

Parental reactions to weight screening in young children: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Parental inability to recognize child overweight and physician reluctance to instigate discussion prevents behaviour change. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate parental acceptance of child overweight status following screening. METHODS: Interviewers used motivational interviewing or best practice care to discuss overweight status of 271 young children (BMI ≥ 85th ) with parents using simple traffic-light BMI charts. Follow-up sessions two weeks later (n = 251, 93%) were coded qualitatively to assess parental reactions to the information (overweight diagnosis) and how it was presented (feedback condition). RESULTS: Eight-two percent of parents rated the charts positively with few (8-10%) feeling judged. Motivational interviewing parents viewed feedback as more empathetic (relative risk, 95% CI: 4.07, 1.64-10.09), but more uncomfortable (12.2, 1.48-100.1) than best practice care parents. Overall, 65.2% of parents accepted their child was overweight, 22.1% were ambivalent and 12.7% rejected the information. Although motivational interviewing parents were less likely to accept it (OR, 95% CI: 0.49, 0.37-0.64) and more likely to be ambivalent (2.01, 1.17-3.47), the most important predictor of acceptance was a positive experience of feedback (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Simple traffic-light charts facilitate discussion of child overweight status with parents. Style of feedback is less relevant than ensuring a positive experience for parents to increase acceptance of the weight information.

Evaluation of encapsulated sodium butyrate on growth performance, energy digestibility, gut development, and Salmonella colonization in broilers.

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effect of an encapsulated sodium butyrate (Na-B) with targeted releasing times on broiler performance, energy digestibility, intestinal morphology, and ceca Salmonella colonization. In experiment 1, 3 different Na-B products (CMA, CMP, and CMS) were evaluated following a challenge with a nalidixic acid-resistant Salmonella typhimurium (STNAR). Cobb-Cobb male birds were placed 8 per pen into 6 replicates for each treatment. Treatments included 6 Na-B treatments (500 and 1,000 ppm of each product) plus 2 control (non-challenged and challenged). Birds were orally gavaged with 0.1 mL of 107 cfu/mL STNAR on d 4. Ceca and ileal samples were collected on d 11. In experiment 2, CMA and CMP products were evaluated for a full grow-out period without an external challenge. Cobb-Cobb male birds were distributed among 45 floor pens with 24 birds per pen. Treatments included 4 product treatments (500 and 1,000 ppm of each product) plus one control. Feed intake and pen weight were obtained on d 14, 28, and 42. Experiment 1 showed that CMP at 1,000 ppm had the highest value for BW and BWG on d 4 (P = 0.07). Adding CMA and CMP at 500 ppm increased ileal digestibility energy (IDE) compared to the challenged control (P ≤ 0.05). The Salmonella recovery data indicated that the challenge had a significant but mild impact, since it did not affect the performance variables but did result in a significant increase in log10 cfu/g cecal material between the non-challenged and challenged control (1.42 vs 3.72). Experiment 2 showed that both products improved the villus height in the duodenum on d 21 (P = 0.08) and IDE on d 42, relative to the control (P ≤ 0.05). This study demonstrates that Na-B has the potential to improve growth in broilers at an early age. The beneficial effects on intestinal morphology and IDE are affected not only by dosage level, but also by the product's releasing time.

The effect of increasing risk and challenge in the school playground on physical activity and weight in children: a cluster randomised controlled trial (PLAY).

BACKGROUND: To investigate whether changing the play environment in primary schools to one that includes greater risk and challenge increases physical activity and reduces body mass index (BMI). SUBJECTS/METHODS: A 2-year cluster randomised controlled trial was undertaken in 16 New Zealand schools (years 1-8). Intervention schools (n=8) redesigned their play environments to encourage imaginative and independent free play by increasing opportunities for risk and challenge (for example, rough-and-tumble play), reducing rules and adding new playground components (for example, loose parts). Control schools (n=8) were asked to not change their play environment. A qualified playworker rated all school play environments at baseline and 1 year. Primary outcomes were moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (7-day accelerometry) and BMI z-score, collected in 840 children at baseline, 1 and 2 years. Data were analysed using generalised estimating equations. RESULTS: Multiple changes were made to the school play environments resulting in a significant difference in overall play evaluation score between intervention and control schools of 4.50 (95% confidence interval: 1.82 to 7.18, P=0.005), which represents a substantial improvement from baseline values of 19.0 (s.d. 3.2). Overall, schools liked the intervention and reported many benefits, including increased physical activity. However, these beliefs did not translate into significant differences in objectively measured physical activity, either as counts per minute (for example, 35 (-51 to 120) during lunch break) or as minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (0.4, -1.1 to 2.0). Similarly, no significant differences were observed for BMI, BMI z-score or waist circumference at 1 or 2 years (all P>0.321). CONCLUSIONS: Altering the school play environment to one that promoted greater risk and challenge for children did not increase physical activity, nor subsequently alter body weight. Although schools embraced the concept of adding risk and challenge in the playground, our findings suggest that children may have been involved in different, rather than additional activities.

Strengthening human genetics research in Africa: report of the 9th meeting of the African Society of Human Genetics in Dakar in May 2016.

The 9th meeting of the African Society of Human Genetics, in partnership with the Senegalese Cancer Research and Study Group and the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) Consortium, was held in Dakar, Senegal. The theme was Strengthening Human Genetics Research in Africa. The 210 delegates came from 21 African countries and from France, Switzerland, UK, UAE, Canada and the USA. The goal was to highlight genetic and genomic science across the African continent with the ultimate goal of improving the health of Africans and those across the globe, and to promote the careers of young African scientists in the field. A session on the sustainability of genomic research in Africa brought to light innovative and practical approaches to supporting research in resource-limited settings and the importance of promoting genetics in academic, research funding, governmental and private sectors. This meeting led to the formation of the Senegalese Society for Human Genetics.

Le 9ème congrès de la Société Africaine de Génétique Humaine, en partenariat avec le Groupe d'Etude et de Recherche sur le Cancer (GERC) et le Consortium H3Africa, s'est tenu à Dakar, au Sénégal. Le thème était «Renforcer la recherche en Génétique Humaine en Afrique¼. Les 210 participants sont venus de 21 pays africains et de six non africains. L'objectif était de valoriser la génétique et la génomique à travers l'Afrique avec comme but ultime d'améliorer la santé des populations, et de promouvoir les carrières des jeunes chercheurs Africains. Une session sur la pérennité de la recherche génomique a révélé des approches innovantes et pratiques supportant la recherche dans des contextes de ressources limitées et l'importance de promouvoir la formation universitaire en génétique, le financement de la recherche par les gouvernements et le privé. Ce congrès conduisit à la création de la Société Sénégalaise de Génétique Humaine.

Molecular analyses of circadian gene variants reveal sex-dependent links between depression and clocks.

An extensive literature links circadian irregularities and/or sleep abnormalities to mood disorders. Despite the strong genetic component underlying many mood disorders, however, previous genetic associations between circadian clock gene variants and major depressive disorder (MDD) have been weak. We applied a combined molecular/functional and genetic association approach to circadian gene polymorphisms in sex-stratified populations of control subjects and case subjects suffering from MDD. This approach identified significant sex-dependent associations of common variants of the circadian clock genes hClock, hPer3 and hNpas2 with major depression and demonstrated functional effects of these polymorphisms on the expression or activity of the hCLOCK and hPER3 proteins, respectively. In addition, hCLOCK expression is affected by glucocorticoids, consistent with the sex-dependency of the genetic associations and the modulation of glucocorticoid-mediated stress response, providing a mechanism by which the circadian clock controls outputs that may affect psychiatric disorders. We conclude that genetic polymorphisms in circadian genes (especially hClock and hPer3, where functional assays could be tested) influence risk of developing depression in a sex- and stress-dependent manner. These studies support a genetic connection between circadian disruption and mood disorders, and confirm a key connection between circadian gene variation and major depression.

Periodontopathogen levels following the use of an Er:YAG laser in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory periodontal diseases are initiated by microbial biofilms. The reduction of the biofilm is important in the management of the disease. This study compares periodontopathogen levels following the treatment of chronic periodontitis using Er:YAG laser (ERL) debridement and mechanical scaling and root planing (SRP). METHODS: Using a split-mouth design, two quadrants were randomly allocated for treatment. Two hundred and fifty-two subgingival plaque samples were collected from 21 patients, before treatment (baseline) and at 6 and 12 weeks post-therapy. Multiplex qPCR was used to determine relative levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Treponema denticola (Td), Tannerella forsythensis (Tf), and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa). RESULTS: Tf and Pg were significantly reduced post-treatment for both ERL and SRP. ERL treatment resulted in a reduction of Td at 12 weeks. Following SRP treatment Aa was significantly reduced at 12 weeks. No statistically significant difference was seen when treatments were compared at 6 and 12 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: A comparable reduction in the level of the four periodontal pathogens assayed was achieved with Er:YAG laser debridement and mechanical scaling and root planing.

Common variants of the G protein-coupled receptor type 4 are associated with human essential hypertension and predict the blood pressure response to angiotensin receptor blockade.

Non-synonymous GRK4 variants, R65L, A142V and A486V, are associated with essential hypertension in diverse populations. This study replicated the association of GRK4 variants, including GRK4(142V), with human essential hypertension in a Japanese population (n=588; hypertensive, n=486 normotensive controls) and determined whether the presence of GRK4 variants predicted the blood pressure (BP) response to angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in patients with essential hypertension. We analyzed 829 patients and compared the response to ARBs between individuals with no GRK4 variants (n=136) and those with variants at one or any of the three loci (n=693). Carriers of hGRK4(142V) had a greater decrease in systolic BP in response to ARBs than non-carrier hypertensive patients. By contrast, those with variants only at GRK4(486V) were less likely to achieve the BP goal in response to an ARB than those with no variants. These studies showed for the first time the association between GRK4(142V) and a larger decrease in BP with ARBs in hypertensive patients.

Effects of diet mix time and ractopamine hydrochloride on finishing pig growth and carcass performance.

Two experiments were completed to determine the effects of diet mix uniformity and ractopamine HCl on finishing pig performance. In Exp. 1, a total of 200 pigs (BW = 90 kg) were used in a 33-d growth assay arranged in a randomized complete block design with 5 pigs/pen and 8 pens/treatment. Treatments were a corn-soybean meal-based control diet mixed for 360 s or the mixed control diet with 10 mg/kg ractopamine added before additional mixing for 0, 30, 120, or 360 s. Chromium was added to the diet and analyzed to determine mix uniformity of the ractopamine. Therefore, this experiment was designed to determine the effects of nutrient utilization from a thoroughly mixed diet with a potentially nonuniform distribution of ractopamine. Pigs fed diets with ractopamine had greater (P < 0.05) ADG, G:F, final BW, HCW, dressing percentage, loin depth, and percentage carcass lean with lower (P = 0.005) 10th rib backfat thickness. Increasing mix time from 0 to 360 s decreased (quadratic, P = 0.001) CV for Cr from 67 to 12% but had no effect on the response to ractopamine for any growth or carcass measurements. In Exp. 2, a total of 160 pigs (BW = 93 kg) were used in a 27-d growth assay arranged in a completely randomized design with 2 pigs/pen and 16 pens/treatment. Treatments were a corn-soybean meal-based control diet mixed for 360 s or the control diet with 10 mg/kg ractopamine mixed for 0, 30, 120, or 360 s. Diet mix uniformity was determined by measuring Cr and using Quantab Cl titrators (low range 0.005 to 0.1% as NaCl; Environmental Test Systems Inc., Elkhart, IN) to measure the concentration of salt. This experiment was designed to determine the combined effects of potentially nonuniform distribution of both nutrients and ractopamine. The use of ractopamine increased (P < 0.05) ADG, G:F, final BW, HCW, dressing percentage, percentage lean, and loin depth. Increasing mix times from 0 to 360 s decreased (quadratic, P = 0.050) CV for salt and Cr from 51 to 12% and 51 to 15%, respectively, with no effect on ADG, ADFI, final BW CV, HCW, dressing percentage, backfat thickness, loin depth, or percentage carcass lean; however, G:F tended to increase (linear, P = 0.07) as mix time increased from 0 to 360 s. In conclusion, increasing mix time of diets from 0 to 360 s did not affect the response of finishing pigs to ractopamine

The efficacy of Mycoplasma gallisepticum K-strain live vaccine in broiler and layer chickens.

The efficacy of a live Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) vaccine candidate (K-strain) was compared to commercially available vaccines in broiler-type chickens (Trial 1) and layer-type chickens (Trial 2). In Trial 1, three-week-old broiler-type chickens were vaccinated via aerosol with K-strain or an F-strain vaccine. The vaccinated chickens and 10 non-vaccinated controls were subsequently challenged with virulent R-strain via aerosol at six weeks post vaccination; both K-strain and F-strain vaccination resulted in significant protection from air sac and tracheal lesions, as well as R-strain colonization (P ≤ 0.05). In Trial 2, commercial layer-type chickens were vaccinated with ts-11 (via eye drop) or K-strain (via aerosol) at 12 weeks of age. At 25 weeks of age these birds were challenged with R-strain via aerosol. The ts-11 and K-strain vaccinated groups both had significantly lower air sac lesion scores and a lower prevalence of ovarian regression after challenge as compared to non-vaccinated chickens (P ≤ 0.05). K-strain vaccination also prevented significant tracheal lesions and R-strain colonization (P ≤ 0.05). K-strain shows great potential as a highly efficacious live MG vaccine in broiler and layer-type chickens for protection of the respiratory and reproductive systems as well as prevention of infection with field strains.

Prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm in patients referred for transthoracic echocardiography.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have documented the prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) during transthoracic echocardiography, but the effect of such screening on subsequent vascular interventions remains unclear. AIM: This study aimed to determine the utility of opportunistic selective screening for AAA in a contemporary large series of patients having transthoracic echocardiography. METHODS: Subjects aged 50 years or older having transthoracic echocardiography had scanning of the infrarenal aorta in a consecutive series of 10 403 men and women. RESULTS: The study subjects had a mean age of 70.2 ± 10.7 years, and 54.1% were men. There was a 3.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.2-3.9%) prevalence of AAA with a median diameter of 39 mm (interquartile range 32 mm-48 mm). In males ≥ 65 years the prevalence of newly diagnosed AAA was 6.2% (95% CI 5.5-7.0%). Of those with newly diagnosed AAA, 39.7% underwent AAA repair. Age and male gender were associated with AAA prevalence. After adjustment for age and gender, echocardiographic variables associated with AAA were left ventricular end diastolic dimension (odds ratio (OR) 1.02, 95%CI 1.01-1.04), interventricular septum thickness (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.06-1.17), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.15), left atrial diameter (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.07) and aortic root diameter (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.06-1.11). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed a high prevalence of newly diagnosed AAA in a group of older men having cardiac evaluation. There was a relationship of increasing age with AAA, and a significant proportion of newly diagnosed subjects were not suitable for AAA repair.

Bioelectrical impedance as a measure of change in body composition in young children.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The ability of bioelectrical impedance (BIA) to measure change in body composition in children has rarely been examined. METHODS: Body composition was estimated by BIA (Tanita BC-418) and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 187 children aged 4-8 years at baseline and at 12 months. Change in body composition was compared between the two methods using mixed models. RESULTS: Estimates of change in fat mass did not differ between BIA and DXA for overweight girls (mean difference between methods, 95% confidence interval: 0.04 kg, -0.19 to 0.28) or boys (0.07 kg, -0.14 to 0.27). BIA was also able to accurately detect change in fat-free mass, with no significant differences between methods (-0.14 kg, -0.10 to 0.38 in girls and -0.07 kg, -0.35 to -0.20 in boys). Change in percentage fat produced similar estimates in both genders (0.18%, -0.82 to 0.46 in girls and 0.38%, -0.37 to 1.13 in boys). BIA/DXA comparisons in normal weight children were also not significantly different, with the exception of percentage fat in girls, where BIA slightly underestimated change compared with DXA (0.7%, 0.02-0.37). CONCLUSION: BIA performed well as a measure of change in body composition, providing confidence for its use as an outcome measure in children.