Cleft Laterality Dental Arch Relationship Outcomes for Children with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate in New Zealand

OBJECTIVES

To investigate cleft laterality dental arch relationship outcomes of children with non-syndromic complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) in New Zealand.

DESIGN

A retrospective nationwide study.

SETTINGS

Virtual 3D orthodontic study models collected prior to undertaking secondary alveolar bone grafting.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 104 patients with UCLP (L = 80: R = 24).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Four calibrated assessors used the GOSLON Yardstick and 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to score the randomised models on 2 separate assessment sessions. Weighted Kappa were used to determine the intra/inter-rater reliability for the GOSLON and correlations for the VAS.

RESULTS

Intra-rater reliability ranged from 0.57-0.88 (GOSLON) and 0.45-0.93 (VAS). Inter-rater reliability ranged from 0.62-0.86 (GOSLON) and 0.64-0.93 (VAS).GOSLON scores for the left UCLP were 31.2% for good/very good; 26.3% for fair; 42.5% for poor/very poor while the right UCLP scored 8.3% for good/very good; 37.5% for fair; 54.2% for poor/very poor. The mean VAS for left and right UCLP were 53.4 (sd 22.5) and 44.6 (sd 17.1) respectively. Neither the GOSLON nor VAS differences reached statistical significance (both P = .08).

CONCLUSIONS

From a clinical perspective right UCLP had worse dental arch relationship outcomes, however, these differences failed to reach statistical significance. Further studies using larger sample sizes are required to determine if cleft laterality is an important consideration when investigating UCLP dental arch outcomes.

Identifying hepatic genes regulating the ovine response to gastrointestinal nematodes using RNA-Sequencing

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections are considered the most important disease of grazing sheep and due to increasing anthelmintic resistance, chemical control alone is inadequate. Resistance to Gastrointestinal nematode infection is a heritable trait, and through natural selection many sheep breeds have higher resistance. Studying the transcriptome from GIN-exposed and GIN-unexposed sheep using RNA-Sequencing technology can provide measurements of transcript levels associated with the host response to Gastrointestinal nematode infection, and these transcripts may harbor genetic markers that can be used in selective breeding programs to enhance disease resistance. The objective of this study was to compare liver transcriptomes of sheep naturally exposed to Gastrointestinal nematode s, with either high or low parasite burdens, to GIN-unexposed control sheep in order to identify key regulator genes and biological processes associated with Gastrointestinal nematode infection. Differential gene expression analysis revealed no significant differentially expressed genes (DEG) between sheep with a high or low parasite burden (p-value ≤0.01; False Discovery Rate (FDR) ≤ 0.05; and Fold-Change (FC) of > ±2). However, when compared to the control group, low parasite burden sheep showed 146 differentially expressed genes (64 upregulated and 82 downregulated in the low parasite burden group relative to the control), and high parasite burden sheep showed 159 differentially expressed genes (57 upregulated and 102 downregulated in the low parasite burden group relative to the control) (p-value ≤0.01; FDR ≤0.05; and FC of > ±2). Among these two lists of significant differentially expressed genes, 86 differentially expressed genes (34 upregulated, 52 downregulated in the parasited group relative to the control) were found in common between the two parasite burden groups compared to the control (GIN-unexposed sheep). Functional analysis of these significant 86 differentially expressed genes found upregulated genes involved in immune response and downregulated genes involved in lipid metabolism. Results of this study offer insight into the liver transcriptome during natural Gastrointestinal nematode exposure that helps provide a better understanding of the key regulator genes involved in Gastrointestinal nematode infection in sheep.

The role of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in predicting lung metastasis in giant cell tumor of the extremities

OBJECTIVE

Inflammation has a vital role in tumor development and metastasis. Changes in blood count parameters have been associated with tumor prognosis. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in predicting lung metastasis of giant cell tumors of the bone (GCTB) of the extremities.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

34 GCTB patients (22 males and 12 females) were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups. The metastasis group (n = 7) included GCTB patients with lung metastasis, while the non-metastasis group (n = 27) included those without lung metastasis. Descriptive statistics and frequency distribution were calculated [age, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelets, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PLR)]. Continuous normal variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and compared using Student's t-tests. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the ability of NLR and PLR to predict lung metastasis. The factors were considered to be statistically significant at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the lymphocyte count (1.81 vs. 2.23 103/mm3), platelet count (436 vs. 364 103/mm3), and PLR values (247 vs. 190) of the two groups (p > 0.05). The WBC count (11.8 vs. 8.95 103/mm3), neutrophil count (8.78 vs. 5.69 103/mm3), and NLR levels (5.45 vs. 2.81) (p < 0.05) were significantly higher in the metastasis group. The presence of an NLR cut-off value of 3.7 significantly predicted the existence of lung metastasis (AUC = 0.857 [95%CI = 0.714-1], p = 0.004) with a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 82%.

CONCLUSIONS

NLR may serve as a promising prognostic marker for predicting lung metastasis in GCTB patients.

A proposed methodology for uncertainty extraction and verification in priority setting partnerships with the James Lind Alliance: an example from the Common Conditions Affecting the Hand and Wrist Priority Setting Partnership

Background

To report our recommended methodology for extracting and then confirming research uncertainties – areas where research has failed to answer a research question – derived from previously published literature during a broad scope Priority Setting Partnership (PSP) with the James Lind Alliance (JLA).

Methods

This process was completed in the UK as part of the PSP for “Common Conditions Affecting the Hand and Wrist”, comprising of health professionals, patients and carers and reports the data (uncertainty) extraction phase of this. The PSP followed the robust methodology dictated by the JLA and sought to identify knowledge gaps, termed “uncertainties” by the JLA. Published Cochrane Systematic Reviews, Guidelines and Protocols, NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) Guidelines, and SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network) Guidelines were screened for documented “uncertainties”. A robust method of screening, internally verifying and then checking uncertainties was adopted. This included independent screening and data extraction by multiple researchers and use of a PRISMA flowchart, alongside steering group consensus processes.

Selection of research uncertainties was guided by the scope of the Common Conditions Affecting the Hand and Wrist PSP which focused on “common” hand conditions routinely treated by hand specialists, including hand surgeons and hand therapists limited to identifying questions concerning the results of intervention, and not the basic science or epidemiology behind disease.

Results

Of the 2358 records identified (after removal of duplicates) which entered the screening process, 186 records were presented to the PSP steering group for eligibility assessment; 79 were deemed within scope and included for the purpose of research uncertainty extraction (45 full Cochrane Reviews, 18 Cochrane Review protocols, 16 Guidelines). These yielded 89 research uncertainties, which were compared to the stakeholder survey, and added to the longlist where necessary; before derived uncertainties were checked against non-Cochrane published systematic reviews.

Conclusions

In carrying out this work, beyond reporting on output of the Common Conditions Affecting the Hand and Wrist PSP, we detail the methodology and processes we hope can inform and facilitate the work of future PSPs and other evidence reviews, especially those with a broader scope beyond a single disease or condition.

102 A REVIEW OF THE REFERRAL PATHWAYS & OUTCOMES TO RAPID ACCESS FRAILTY ASSESSMENT UNIT (RAFAU)IN A REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Background

The RAFAU is a Multidisciplinary Team including Medical, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, incorporating a fulltime team of OT and PT based in the Emergency Department called RAFT (Rapid Access Frailty Team). It aims to prevent hospital admissions and social crises. There are three main referral pathways, via community (GP, Public Health Nurses, Allied Health Professionals), RAFT-ED, and general medical follow up.

Methods

The data used was from RAFAU attendances between May 2021 and March 2022. Inclusion criteria was age greater than 65 and attendance in person. Exclusion criteria was incomplete data. Data was manually recorded after each attendance using data entry points including age range, methods of and reason for referral, etc. This gave us the raw data to develop information on our cohort. Data analysis was completed using Excel.

Results

A total of 569 patients were seen. The most populous age brackets were 81-85 (28%), 70-75 (25%) and 75-80 (26%) respectively. The vast majority of referrals were from GPs (57%), followed by RAFT-ED (30%). The most common reasons for referral were Medical (34%), Cognitive (27%) and Falls (26%).

Conclusion

A significant number of patients were seen for the first time by the RAFAU MDT. GPs were the major source of referrals which is to be expected as GPs are in more frequent contact with patients and act as gatekeepers to specialist hospital services. The primary referral reasons were also to be expected as these are three issues that are at the core of Gerontology. 173 hospital admissions were prevented in the ED by a combination of the RAFT and Emergency Doctors. There is good rationale for keeping the RAFAU and RAFT-ED team, and where possible expanding their services. This model could easily be expanded to other hospitals.

Electromyographic differences of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, biceps femoris, and vastus lateralis between the barbell hip thrust and barbell glute bridge

Hip extensor muscles are critical to sport performance as events requiring sprinting and forceful landings are highly dependent on these muscles. Despite biomechanical differences between the barbell hip thrust (BHT) and the barbell glute bridge (BGB), both are biomechanically efficient ways to load this musculature for training purposes. Research investigating the differences in muscular activity between the BHT and BGB has yet been conducted. The aim of this study was to investigate, through surface electromyography, if one exercise is more optimal than the other in producing greater muscle activation for specific hip extensor muscles. Ten male participants completed a two-part study protocol. Results revealed the BHT elicited significantly greater muscle activity within the vastus lateralis for peak and mean outcomes; however, the BGB elicited significantly greater muscle activity in the upper and lower gluteus maximus for peak and mean outcomes and mean outcome in the gluteus medius. Current findings suggest, the BGB is, at minimum, a superior substitute for the BHT for eliciting a larger magnitude of activity in the gluteus maximus. Future studies between the two exercises are warranted to discern which produces greater hypertrophy and whether adaption of the BHT or BGB transfers more optimally to sport performance.

Comparison between methods for measuring fecal egg count and estimating genetic parameters for gastrointestinal parasite resistance traits in sheep

Fecal egg count (FEC) is an indicative measurement for parasite infection in sheep. Different FEC methods may show inconsistent results. Not accounting for inconsistencies can be problematic when integrating measurements from different FEC methods for genetic evaluation. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the difference in means and variances between two fecal egg counting methods used in sheep-the Modified McMaster (LMMR) and the Triple Chamber McMaster (LTCM); to estimate variance components for the two FEC methods, treating them as two different traits; and to integrate FEC data from the two different methods and estimate genetic parameters for FEC and other gastrointestinal parasite resistance traits. Fecal samples were collected from a commercial Rideau-Arcott sheep farm in Ontario. Fecal egg counting was performed using both LMMR and the LTCM methods. Other parasite resistance trait records were collected from the same farm including eye score (FAMACHA), body condition score (BCS), and body weight (WT). The two FEC methods were highly genetically (0.94) and phenotypically (0.88) correlated. However, the mean and variance between the two FEC methods were significantly different (P < 0.0001). Therefore, re-scaling is required prior to integrating data from the different methods. For the multiple trait analysis, data from the two fecal egg counting methods were integrated (LFEC) by using records for the LMMR when available and replacing missing records with re-standardized LTCM records converted to the same mean and variance of LMMR. Heritability estimates were 0.12 ± 0.04, 0.07 ± 0.05, 0.17 ± 0.06, and 0.24 ± 0.07 for LFEC egg count, FAMACHA, BCS, and WT, respectively. The estimated genetic correlations between FEC and the other parasite resistance traits were low and not significant (P > 0.05) for FAMACHA (r = 0.24 ± 0.32) and WT (r = 0.22 ± 0.19), and essentially zero for BCS (r = -0.03 ± 0.25), suggesting little to no benefit of using such traits as indicators for LFEC.

N, Hosemann W. Supplements and refinements to current classifications and nomenclature of the fronto-ethmoidal transition region by systematic analysis with 3D CT microanatomy

Objective: The microanatomy of the fronto-ethmoidal transition region has been addressed in several classifications. CT stereoscopic imaging (3DCTSI) provides improved display and delineates three defined complex “spaces”, the Frontal Sinus/Frontal Recess Space, the Infundibular Space of the Ethmoid Uncinate Process, and the Ethmoid Bulla Space (FSRS, IS-EUP, EB), none of which were adequately described with the “cell” terminology. We present details on the 3D microanatomy, variability, and prevalence of these spaces. Methods: 3D stereoscopic imaging displays (3DCTSI) were created from 200 datasets. The images were analyzed and categorized by a radiologist (SJZ), and consultant otolaryngologists, focusing on 3D microanatomy of the fronto-ethmoidal transition, the frontal recess/frontal sinus, and drainage pathways, in comparison to established anatomical classification systems. Results: The anterior ethmoid is subdivided into seven groups with the following core properties and prevalence: 1. The horizontal roof of the IS-EUP is attached to the superior half of the frontal process of the maxilla (19%); 2. The IS-EUP extends into the frontal recess (6.5%); 3. The IS-EUP extends into the frontal recess and the frontal sinus (18.5%); 4. A bulla is seen in the medial frontal sinus (3%); 5. The ethmoid bulla and supra bullar space extend into the frontal sinus (7%); 6. Lamellae extend into the FSRS antero-superiorly (25%); 7. FSRS expansion expands below the upper half of the frontal process of the maxilla (FSRS) (21%). Conclusion: 3-D analysis of the detailed anatomy provides important new anatomic information with the increased focus on precision surgery in the region.

N, Kennedy D, Solaiyappan M, Hosemann W. 3D CT stereoscopic imaging: an improved anatomical understanding of the anterior ethmoid sinus and frontal sinus drainage pathway

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this presentation is to display a series of new anatomical concepts and terms regarding the frontal si- nus, its drainage pathway and cells vs. spaces of the anterior ethmoid, based on Three-Dimensional Computer X-ray Tomography Stereoscopic Imaging (3DCTSI) and contrast these concepts to those reported in the current literature. METHODS: Given the new anatomic observations provided by 3DCTSI, and the widespread anatomic variations a small sample was initially selected to describe our observations. Six exemplary cases according to the “Classification of Fronto-Ethmoidal cells” by Kuhn, Bent et al., Lee et al., expanded by Wormald et al., and adopted by Ramakrishnan et al., Huang et al., and Void et al. (1-7) were chosen to illustrate our detailed anatomic observations. Additional observations and data of prevalence identified in a larger series will follow. RESULTS and CONCLUSION: Conceptually, the anterior ethmoid “cells” are in essence “spaces” with openings that communicate with the middle meatus and/or the ethmoidal infundibulum. The frontal sinus and frontal recess are a united and continuous three-dimensional, irregularly shaped space, the Frontal Sinus/Recess Space (FSRS). The uncinate process has two segments: the Ethmoidal Uncinate Process (EUP), which encompasses the Infundibular Space of the EUP (IS-EUP), currently known as the Agger Nasi cell; and the Turbinal Uncinate Process (TUP), which borders the Turbinal Infundibulum (TI) medially. The superior attach- ment of the EUP will be detailed in each of the six cases (Table 2). The middle meatus and infundibular passages are the drainage pathways from the frontal sinus and maxillary sinus to the nasal cavity.

PSIII-8 Difference between two fecal egg count methods and estimation of genetic parameters for gastrointestinal parasite resistance traits in sheep

Fecal egg count (FEC) is an indicative measurement for parasite infection in sheep. Different FEC methods may show inconsistent results. Not accounting for inconsistencies can be problematic when integrating measurements from different FEC methods for genetic evaluation. The objectives of this study were to: evaluate the difference between two FEC methods, the Modified McMaster (LMMR) and the Triple Chamber McMaster (LTCM); estimate the genetic and phenotypic correlations between records from two methods; and estimate genetic parameters for FEC and other gastrointestinal parasite resistance traits. A total of 1,676 fecal samples were collected from a commercial sheep farm between 2012 and 2019. Fecal egg counting was performed using the Modified McMaster (n = 998) and the Triple Chamber McMaster (n = 678) methods. Other parasite resistance trait records were collected from the same farm including eye score (FAMACHA©), body condition score (BCS), and body weight (WT). The mean and variance between the two FEC methods were significantly different (P &lt; 0.0001), but phenotypic and genetic correlations between them were high (0.88 and 0.94, respectively). Therefore, pre-adjustment is required prior to integrating data from the different methods. For multiple trait analysis with other parasite resistance traits, data from the two fecal egg counting methods were integrated (LFEC) by using records for the LMMR when available and replacing missing records with standardized LTCM records for mean and variance of LMMR. Heritability estimates were 0.12, 0.07, 0.17, and 0.24, for LFEC, FAMACHA©, BCS, and the WT, respectively. Estimated genetic correlations between fecal egg count and the other parasite resistance traits were low with FAMACHA© (0.24), BCS (-0.03), and WT (0.22), suggesting little to no benefit of using such traits as indicators for LFEC.

The value of incorporating carcass trait phenotypes in terminal sire selection indexes to improve carcass weight and quality of heavy lambs

Genetic selection for carcass traits is paramount to maximize the profitability and long-term sustainability of any meat-producing livestock species. The main objectives of this research were to evaluate the efficiency of indicator traits for the genetic improvement of lamb carcass traits and to determine the value of including carcass traits into terminal sire selection indexes for the Canadian sheep industry. The carcass traits included hot carcass weight (HCW), fat depth at the GR site (FATGR) and average carcass conformation score (AVGCONF), and were measured on heavy lambs (slaughter age less than 365 days and HCW greater than 16.3 kg) in commercial abattoirs. Growth traits were found to be moderately efficient indicator traits for the genetic improvement of HCW but selection on ultrasound traits was necessary to substantially improve the carcass quality traits (FATGR and AVGCONF). Economic selection indexes were designed by adding various combinations of carcass traits into the Canadian Sheep Genetic Evaluation System terminal indexes. Records measured on individuals and progeny were assumed to be the sources of information for live animal and carcass traits, respectively. The changes in index accuracy, efficiency and expected correlated response were used to assess the value of their inclusion. HCW was found to have a large economic value, and its inclusion into terminal selection indexes was expected to substantially increase their accuracy (0.08-0.12 points) and efficiency (20%-30%). However, further including FATGR (measured 110 mm from the carcass midline over the 12th rib) and AVGCONF had little impact on the accuracy (≤0.03) and efficiency (1%-7%) of the proposed indexes. Thus, the inclusion of carcass traits into the existing terminal selection indexes could be beneficial for the genetic improvement of HCW, but further research is needed to determine optimal methods of increasing carcass fatness and muscularity.

N, Kennedy D, Solaiyappan M, Hosemann W. 3D CT stereoscopic imaging: an improved anatomical understanding of the anterior ethmoid sinus and frontal sinus drainage pathway

Objective: The objective of this presentation is to display a series of new anatomical concepts and terms regarding the frontal sinus, its drainage pathway and cells vs. spaces of the anterior ethmoid, based on Three-Dimensional Computer X-ray Tomography Stereoscopic Imaging (3DCTSI) and contrast these concepts to those reported in the current literature. Methods: Given the new anatomic observations provided by 3DCTSI, and the widespread anatomic variations a small sample was initially selected to describe our observations. Six exemplary cases according to the “Classification of Fronto-Ethmoidal cells” by Kuhn, Bent et al., Lee et al., expanded by Wormald et al., and adopted by Ramakrishnan et al., Huang et al., and Void et al. (1-7) were chosen to illustrate our detailed anatomic observations. Additional observations and data of prevalence identified in a larger series will follow. Results and Conclusion: Conceptually, the anterior ethmoid “cells” are in essence “spaces” with openings that communicate with the middle meatus and/or the ethmoidal infundibulum. The frontal sinus and frontal recess are a united and continuous three-dimensional, irregularly shaped space, the Frontal Sinus/Recess Space (FSRS). The uncinate process has two segments: the Ethmoidal Uncinate Process (EUP), which encompasses the Infundibular Space of the EUP (IS-EUP), currently known as the Agger Nasi cell; and the Turbinal Uncinate Process (TUP), which borders the Turbinal Infundibulum (TI) medially. The superior attachment of the EUP will be detailed in each of the six cases (Table 2). The middle meatus and infundibular passages are the drainage pathways from the frontal sinus and maxillary sinus to the nasal cavity.

Bayesian Optimization of a Free-Electron Laser

The Linac coherent light source x-ray free-electron laser is a complex scientific apparatus which changes configurations multiple times per day, necessitating fast tuning strategies to reduce setup time for successive experiments. To this end, we employ a Bayesian approach to maximizing x-ray laser pulse energy by controlling groups of quadrupole magnets. A Gaussian process model provides probabilistic predictions for the machine response with respect to control parameters, enabling a balance of exploration and exploitation in the search for the global optimum. We show that the model parameters can be learned from archived scans, and correlations between devices can be extracted from the beam transport. The result is a sample-efficient optimization routine, combining both historical data and knowledge of accelerator physics to significantly outperform existing optimizers.

PSX-19 Factors affecting growth and carcass trait performance of Canadian heavy lambs

The profitability of meat lamb production is strongly dependent on growth and carcass trait performance of market lambs. The objective of this research was to test the significance of non-genetic factors on growth, ultrasound, and carcass traits of Canadian heavy lambs. Hot carcass weight (HCW, kg), fat depth at the GR site (FATGR, mm), average carcass conformation score (CONF, points), and total carcass value (PRICE, $CAD) were measured for 8,865 purebred lambs marketed through Quebec’s Heavy Lamb Sales Agency. Corresponding management information and growth trait records for over 19,000 animals with carcass records and their relatives were extracted from the Canadian Sheep Genetic Evaluation System. Single-trait mixed linear models in SAS were used to test the significance (P &lt; 0.05) of various non-genetic effects, after a Scheffe adjustment for multiple comparisons. All models included categorical fixed effects of sex (male or female), breed (Hampshire, HA; Suffolk, SU; Canadian Arcott, CD; Polled Dorset, DP; Rideau Arcott, RI; Polypay, PO), dam age at parity (1 to 7+ years), and birth and rearing type (born as single, twin, or triplet and more, and reared as single or multiple), and a random effect of contemporary group. Linear covariates of slaughter age or carcass weight were included in the carcass trait models, while a scanning weight covariate was used for ultrasound trait models. Male lambs were found to be significantly heavier during growth, had greater HCW and PRICE, and lower FATGR and CONF than female lambs. As expected, terminal breeds (HA, SU, CD) tended to have greater growth, greater HCW and PRICE, and lower FATGR than maternal (DP, RI, RV, PO) breeds. This information could be utilized by Canadian sheep producers to manage their flocks to maximize the revenue of lambs marketed through price grid classification systems.

Simultaneous Determination of Chlorothalonil and Hexachlorobenzene in Technical and Formulated Materials by Capillary Gas Chromatography: Collaborative Study

A collaborative study was conducted for the capillary gas chromatographic (GC) method for the simultaneous determination of the fungicide chlorothalonil (CTL) and the accompanying impurity, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), in technical and formulated materials. The method calls for the dissolution of technical and dry formulations of CTL and HCB from the aqueous flowable formulation. The 10 participating laboratories were asked to analyze the samples by adhering to the method as closely as their instrumentation and data systems allowed, and to note any deviations from the method. Collaborators were asked to prepare the standards and samples, set up the capillary GC systems, analyze the samples, and calculate the results. CTL produced reproducibility relative standard deviations (RSDR) of 0.4–2.5 (active ingredient concentrations ranged from approximately 52 to 98% by weight). HCB produced RSDR values of 5.2–22% (HCB concentrations were 0.02–0.04% by weight). The method was adopted First Action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.

A genetic evaluation of growth, ultrasound, and carcass traits at alternative slaughter endpoints in crossbred heavy lambs

Genetic parameters were estimated for growth, ultrasound, and carcass traits in a Canadian crossbred heavy lamb population. Traits analyzed included birth, weaning, post-weaning, and ultrasound scanning weights; pre- and post-weaning average daily gain; ultrasonically measured eye muscle and fat depths; hot carcass weight; fat depth at the GR site (110 mm from the midline on the 12th rib); carcass conformation scores; saleable meat yield; price grid value; and total carcass value. The impact of three alternative slaughter endpoints (slaughter age, carcass weight, and carcass fatness) on genetic parameter estimates was also evaluated. In general, carcass traits were found to be moderately heritable, with heritability estimates ranging from 0.17 ± 0.02 for hot carcass weight at a constant slaughter age to 0.34 ± 0.02 for average carcass conformation score at a constant carcass weight. Heritability estimates were similar when observations were adjusted to alternative slaughter endpoints, but for some traits, phenotypic variance and genetic correlation estimates differed. Genetic correlations between carcass traits and growth and ultrasound traits were typically favorable. Ultrasonically measured eye muscle depth and fat depth were found to be moderately to strongly positively correlated with hot carcass weight (0.33 ± 0.15 to 0.71 ± 0.19) and fat depth at the GR site (0.38 ± 0.14 to 0.74 ± 0.12), respectively, reaffirming the usefulness of selection on ultrasound traits to improve carcass yield and quality. Genetic correlations among carcass traits were generally favorable, with the exception of moderate unfavorable positive genetic correlations between fat depth at the GR site and primal cut carcass conformation scores (0.31 ± 0.05 to 0.60 ± 0.05). Overall, the results of this research suggest that there is potential to improve carcass yield and quality through genetic selection and provides the population-specific genetic parameter estimates needed for the genetic evaluation of carcass traits in the Canadian sheep population. Nevertheless, the optimal endpoint for carcass trait genetic evaluations will need to be further investigated, considering both the current findings and additional information on production practices in the industry.

134 The effect of follicle-stimulating hormone and equine chorionic gonadotropin injection protocols on laparoscopic ovum pickup in prepubertal Kiko goats

In vitro fertilization has served as a great tool in the human and bovine field in its ability to treat infertility in females. The purpose of this study was to compare hormone injection treatments in goats using the laparoscopic ovum pickup technique. A crossover trial was conducted to evaluate 2 superovulation injection protocols [a multiple-injection FSH (F) and a one-injection FSH-eCG (F+E)] for their ability to increase recovery of oocytes using laparoscopic ovum pickup (LOPU) technique in 10 prepubertal Kiko does. Does were randomly assigned to 2 sequence groups (n=5). Period 1 initiated on 28 July 2017 and Period 2 on 12 August 2017. A CIDR device was inserted on Day 0 and removed after LOPU. On Day 6 of each period, 3mL of prostaglandin F2α was given IM to each doe. F-treated does received (IM) twice daily injections of 15, 12.5, 10, and 7.5mg of FSH, whereas F+E-treated does received (IM) 80mg of FSH and 300 international units (IU) of eCG. Thirty-six hours after injection, follicles were aspirated using LOPU. Treatment response measurements included total follicles observed, oocyte recovery rate, and blastocyst rate. Total follicles observed were higher (P=0.004) in F+E-treated does (305 follicles) than F-treated does (236 follicles). Neither oocyte recovery rates (F+E=41.5% and F=38.1%) nor blastocysts rates (F+E=18% and F=32%) were affected (P&gt;0.05) by injection protocol. In conclusion, we summarise that multiple injections of FSH can results in a higher number of follicles produced; however, this does not have a subsequent effect on IVF and development rates.

Prenatal omega-3 LCPUFA and symptoms of allergic disease and sensitization throughout early childhood - a longitudinal analysis of long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial

Background

Randomized controlled trials of prenatal omega (ω-3) long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) supplementation are suggestive of some protective effects on allergic sensitization and symptoms of allergic disease in childhood. Due to the nature of the atopic march, investigation of any effects of this prenatal intervention may be most informative when consistently assessed longitudinally during childhood.

Methods

Follow-up of children (n = 706) with familial risk of allergy from the Docosahexaenoic Acid to Optimize Mother Infant Outcome (DOMInO) trial. The intervention group received fish oil capsules (900 mg of ω-3 LCPUFA) daily from <21 weeks' gestation until birth; the control group received vegetable oil capsules without ω-3 LCPUFA. This new longitudinal analysis reports previously unpublished data collected at 1 and 3 years of age. The allergic disease symptom data at 1, 3 and 6 years of age were consistently reported by parents using the "International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood" (ISAAC) questionnaire. Sensitization was determined by skin prick test to age specific, common allergen extracts.

Results

Changes over time in symptoms of allergic disease with sensitization (IgE-mediated) and sensitization did not differ between the groups; interaction p = 0.49, p = 0.10, respectively. Averaged across the 1, 3 and 6-year assessments, there were no significant effects of prenatal ω-3 LCPUFA supplementation on IgE-mediated allergic disease symptoms (adjusted relative risk 0.88 (95% CI 0.69, 1.12), p = 0.29) or sensitization (adjusted relative risk 0.97 (95% CI 0.82, 1.15), p = 0.76). Sensitization patterns to common allergens were consistent with the atopic march, with egg sensitization at 1 year strongly associated with house dust mite sensitization at 6 years, (p < 0.0001).

Discussion

Although there is some evidence to suggest that maternal supplementation with 900mg ω-3 LCPUFA has a protective effect on early symptoms of allergic disease and sensitization in the offspring, we did not observe any differences in the progression of disease over time in this longitudinal analysis. Further investigation into the dose and timing of ω-3 LCPUFA supplementation, including long-term follow up of children using consistent outcome reporting, is essential to determine whether this intervention may be of benefit as a primary prevention strategy for allergic disease.

Conclusion

Maternal supplementation with 900 mg of ω-3 LCPUFA did not change the progression of IgE-mediated allergic disease symptoms or sensitization throughout childhood from 1 to 6 years.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN); DOMInO trial ACTRN12605000569606, early childhood allergy follow up ACTRN12610000735055 and 6-year allergy follow up ACTRN12615000498594.