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Nakamura JP, Schroeder A, Gibbons A, Sundram S, Hill RA. Timing of maternal immune activation and sex influence schizophrenia-relevant cognitive constructs and neuregulin and GABAergic pathways. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 100:70-82. [PMID: 34808289 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) during pregnancy is an established environmental risk factor for schizophrenia. Timing of immune activation exposure as well as sex of the exposed offspring are critical factors in defining the effects of MIA. However, the specificity of MIA on the component structure of schizophrenia, especially cognition, has been difficult to assess due to a lack of translational validity of maze-like testing paradigms. We aimed to assess cognitive domains relevant to schizophrenia using highly translational touchscreen-based tasks in male and female mice exposed to the viral mimetic, poly(I:C) (5 mg/k, i.p.), during early (gestational day (GD) 9-11) and late (GD13-15) gestational time points. Gene expression of schizophrenia candidate pathways were assessed in fetal brain immediately following poly(I:C) exposure and in adulthood to identify its influence on neurodevelopmental processes. Sex and window specific alterations in cognitive performance were found with the early window of MIA exposure causing female-specific disruptions to working memory and reduced perseverative behaviour, while late MIA exposure caused male-specific changes to working memory and deficits in reversal learning. GABAergic specification marker, Nkx2.1 gene expression was reduced in fetal brains and reelin expression was reduced in adult hippocampus of both early and late poly(I:C) exposed mice. Neuregulin and EGF signalling were initially upregulated in the fetal brain, but were reduced in the adult hippocampus, with male mice exposed in the late window showing reduced Nrg3 expression. Serine racemase was reduced in both fetal and adult brain, but again, adult reductions were specific to male mice exposed at the late time point. Overall, we show that cognitive constructs relevant to schizophrenia are altered by in utero exposure to maternal immune activation, but are highly dependent on the timing of infection and the sex of the offspring. Glutamatergic and epidermal growth factor pathways were similarly altered by MIA in a timing and sex dependent manner, while MIA-induced GABAergic deficits were independent of timing or sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Nakamura
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - A Schroeder
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - A Gibbons
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - S Sundram
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Mental Health Program, Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
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Hill RA, Kouremenos K, Tull D, Maggi A, Schroeder A, Gibbons A, Kulkarni J, Sundram S, Du X. Bazedoxifene - a promising brain active SERM that crosses the blood brain barrier and enhances spatial memory. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 121:104830. [PMID: 32858306 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Over 20 years of accumulated evidence has shown that the major female sex hormone 17β-estradiol can enhance cognitive functioning. However, the utility of estradiol as a therapeutic cognitive enhancer is hindered by its unwanted peripheral effects (carcinogenic). Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) avoid the unwanted effects of estradiol by acting as estrogen receptor antagonists in some tissues such as breast and uterus, but as agonists in others such as bone, and are currently used for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, understanding of their actions in the brain are limited. The third generation SERM bazedoxifene has recently been FDA approved for clinical use with an improved biosafety profile. However, whether bazedoxifene can enter the brain and enhance cognition is unknown. Using mice, the current study aimed to explore if bazedoxifene can 1) cross the blood-brain barrier, 2) rescue ovariectomy-induced hippocampal-dependent spatial memory deficit, and 3) activate neural estrogen response element (ERE)-dependent gene transcription. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), we firstly demonstrate that a peripheral injection of bazedoxifene can enter the brain. Secondly, we show that an acute intraperitoneal injection of bazedoxifene can rescue ovariectomy-induced spatial memory deficits. And finally, using the ERE-luciferase reporter mouse, we show in vivo that bazedoxifene can activate the ERE in the brain. The evidence shown here suggest bazedoxifene could be a viable cognitive enhancer with promising clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia; Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.
| | - K Kouremenos
- Metabolomics Australia, Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - D Tull
- Metabolomics Australia, Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - A Maggi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - A Schroeder
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - A Gibbons
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - J Kulkarni
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Monash University, St Kilda, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - S Sundram
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - X Du
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia; Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
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Ayers AM, Allan ATL, Howlett C, Tordiffe ASW, Williams KS, Williams ST, Hill RA. Illuminating movement? Nocturnal activity patterns in chacma baboons. J Zool (1987) 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. M. Ayers
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
| | - A. T. L. Allan
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
| | - C. Howlett
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
- School of Anthropology and Conservation The University of Kent Canterbury Kent UK
| | - A. S. W. Tordiffe
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Pretoria Onderstepoort South Africa
| | - K. S. Williams
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
| | - S. T. Williams
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
- Department of Zoology University of Venda Thohoyandou South Africa
- Institute for Globally Distributed Open Research and Education (IGDORE) Thohoyandou South Africa
| | - R. A. Hill
- Department of Anthropology Durham University Durham UK
- Primate and Predator Project Lajuma Research Centre Makhado South Africa
- Department of Zoology University of Venda Thohoyandou South Africa
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Du X, McCarthny CR, Notaras M, van den Buuse M, Hill RA. Effect of adolescent androgen manipulation on psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood in BDNF heterozygous and control mice. Horm Behav 2019; 112:32-41. [PMID: 30928609 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Males are more prone to psychosis, schizophrenia and substance abuse and addiction in adolescence and early adulthood than females. However, the role of androgens during this developmental period is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine how androgens in adolescence influence psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood and whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a mediator of these developmental effects. METHODS Wild-type and BDNF heterozygous male mice were castrated at pre-pubescence and implanted with testosterone or dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In adulthood, we assessed amphetamine- and MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion as a model of psychosis-like behaviour. Western blot analysis was used to quantify levels of the dopamine transporter (DAT) and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits. RESULTS While castration itself had little effect on behaviour, adolescent testosterone, but not DHT, significantly reduced amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion, whereas both testosterone and DHT reduced the effect of MK-801. These effects were similar in mice of either genotype. In wildtype mice, both testosterone and DHT treatment reduced DAT expression in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) but these effects were absent in BDNF heterozygous mice. There were no effects on NMDA receptor subunit levels. CONCLUSIONS The differential effect of adolescent testosterone and DHT on amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion in adulthood suggests involvement of conversion of testosterone to estrogen and subsequent modulation of dopaminergic signalling. In contrast, the similar effect of testosterone and DHT treatment on NMDA receptor-mediated hyperlocomotion indicates it is mediated by androgen receptors. The involvement of BDNF in these hormone effects remains to be elucidated. These results demonstrate that, during adolescence, androgens significantly influence key pathways related to various mental illnesses prevalent in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Du
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - C R McCarthny
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Notaras
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain & Mind Research Institute, Cornell University, NY, USA
| | - M van den Buuse
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Australia; The College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Du X, Hill RA. Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis dysfunction: An innate pathophysiology of schizophrenia? Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 275:38-43. [PMID: 30753842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The female hormone 17β-estradiol is postulated to be protective against schizophrenia onset and severity. Hypoestrogenism is a common phenomenon in women with schizophrenia that has serious effects that adds to the burden of an already very onerous disease. The cause of hypoestrogenism is largely attributed to antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia. Evidence suggest however that a significant portion of female schizophrenia patients develop hypoestrogenism either before antipsychotic treatment or without regard to the level of prolactin, suggesting that for a sizeable segment of female patients, gonadal abnormality may be an innate and early aspect of the disease. This review aims to summarise the available literature that examines gonadal dysfunction in schizophrenia through this prism as well as to outline some recent developments in treatment strategies that may provide feasible ways to successfully tackle hypoestrogenism in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Du
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - R A Hill
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Bellmore RA, Compton JE, Brooks JR, Fox EW, Hill RA, Sobota DJ, Thornbrugh DJ, Weber MH. Nitrogen inputs drive nitrogen concentrations in U.S. streams and rivers during summer low flow conditions. Sci Total Environ 2018; 639:1349-1359. [PMID: 29929300 PMCID: PMC6361169 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Ecological and human health impairments related to excess nitrogen (N) in streams and rivers remain widespread in the United States (U.S.) despite recent efforts to reduce N pollution. Many studies have quantified the relationship between N loads to streams in terms of N mass and N inputs to watersheds; however, N concentrations, rather than loads, are more closely related to impacts on human health and aquatic life. Additionally, concentrations, rather than loads, trigger regulatory responses. In this study, we examined how N concentrations are related to N inputs to watersheds (atmospheric deposition, synthetic fertilizer, manure applied to agricultural land, cultivated biological N fixation, and point sources), land cover characteristics, and stream network characteristics, including stream size and the extent of lakes and reservoirs. N concentration data were collected across the conterminous U.S. during the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2008-09 National Rivers and Streams Assessment (n = 1966). Median watershed N inputs were 15.7 kg N ha-1 yr-1. Atmospheric deposition accounted for over half the N inputs in 49% of watersheds, but watersheds with the highest N input rates were dominated by agriculture-related sources. Total N input to watersheds explained 42% and 38% of the variability in total N and dissolved inorganic N concentrations, respectively. Land cover characteristics were also important predictors, with wetland cover muting the effect of agricultural N inputs on N concentrations and riparian disturbance exacerbating it. In contrast, stream variables showed little correlation with N concentrations. This suggests that terrestrial factors that can be managed, such as agricultural N use practices and wetland or riparian areas, control the spatial variability in stream N concentrations across the conterminous U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Bellmore
- National Research Council, in residence at the Environmental Protection Agency, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - J E Compton
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - J R Brooks
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - E W Fox
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - R A Hill
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Post-doctoral Participant c/o U.S. EPA, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - D J Sobota
- Water Quality Program, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, 700 NE Multnomah Street, Suite 600, Portland, OR 97232, United States.
| | - D J Thornbrugh
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Post-doctoral Participant c/o U.S. EPA, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
| | - M H Weber
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Western Ecology Division, 200 SW 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, United States.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To review the initial deformity and subsequent remodelling in posteromedial bowing of the tibia and the outcome of limb reconstruction in this condition. PATIENTS AND METHODS In all, 38 patients with posteromedial bowing of the tibia presenting between 2000 and 2016 were identified. Mean follow-up from presentation was 78 months. A total of 17 patients underwent lengthening and deformity correction surgery, whilst three further patients are awaiting lengthening and deformity correction procedures. RESULTS The greatest correction of deformity occurred in the first year of life, but after the age of four years, remodelling was limited. The absolute leg-length discrepancy (LLD) increased throughout growth with a mean 14.3% discrepancy in tibial length. In the lengthening group, mean length gained per episode was 45 mm (35 to 60). Mean duration in frame was 192 days, with a mean healing index of 42.4 days/cm. Significantly higher rates of recurrence in LLD were seen in those undergoing lengthening under the age of ten years (p = 0.046). Four contralateral epiphysiodeses were also performed. CONCLUSION Posteromedial bowing of the tibia improves spontaneously during the first years of life, but in 20/38 (53%) patients, limb reconstruction was indicated for significant residual deformity and/or worsening LLD. For larger discrepancies and persistent deformity, limb reconstruction with a hexapod external fixator should be considered as part of the treatment options. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV (Case series).
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Wright
- Department of Orthopaedics, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK,Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK, Correspondence should be sent to J. Wright, Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK. E-mail:
| | - R. A. Hill
- Department of Orthopaedics, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - D. M. Eastwood
- Department of Orthopaedics, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK,Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK
| | - A. Hashemi-Nejad
- Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK
| | - P. Calder
- Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK
| | - S. Tennant
- Catterall Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK
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Qosa H, Mohamed LA, Alqahtani S, Abuasal BS, Hill RA, Kaddoumi A. Transporters as Drug Targets in Neurological Diseases. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2016; 100:441-453. [PMID: 27447939 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Membrane transport proteins have central physiological function in maintaining cerebral homeostasis. These transporters are expressed in almost all cerebral cells in which they regulate the movement of a wide range of solutes, including endogenous substrates, xenobiotic, and therapeutic drugs. Altered activity/expression of central nervous system (CNS) transporters has been implicated in the onset and progression of multiple neurological diseases. Neurological diseases are heterogeneous diseases that involve complex pathological alterations with only a few treatment options; therefore, there is a great need for the development of novel therapeutic treatments. To that end, transporters have emerged recently to be promising therapeutic targets to halt or slow the course of neurological diseases. The objective of this review is to discuss implications of transporters in neurological diseases and summarize available evidence for targeting transporters as decent therapeutic approach in the treatment of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Qosa
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - L A Mohamed
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - S Alqahtani
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - B S Abuasal
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - A Kaddoumi
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA.
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Cummings NJ, Ambrose A, Braithwaite M, Bissett J, Roslan HA, Abdullah J, Stewart A, Agbayani FV, Steyaert J, Hill RA. Diversity of root-endophytic Trichoderma from Malaysian Borneo. Mycol Prog 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11557-016-1192-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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McGee M, Welch CM, Ramirez JA, Carstens GE, Price WJ, Hall JB, Hill RA. Relationships of feeding behaviors with average daily gain, dry matter intake, and residual feed intake in Red Angus-sired cattle. J Anim Sci 2015; 92:5214-21. [PMID: 25349363 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-8036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Feeding behavior has the potential to enhance prediction of feed intake and to improve understanding of the relationships between behavior, DMI, ADG, and residual feed intake (RFI) in beef cattle. Two cohorts, born in 2009 and 2010, the progeny of Red Angus bulls (n = 58 heifers and n = 53 steers), were evaluated during the growing phase, and the latter group of steers was also evaluated during the finishing phase. All behavior analyses were based on 7 feeding behavior traits (bunk visit frequency, bunk visit duration [BVDUR], feed bout frequency, feed bout duration, meal frequency, meal duration, and average meal intake) and their relationships with ADG, DMI, and RFI. During the growing phase, feeding duration traits were most indicative of DMI with positive correlations between BVDUR and DMI for cohort 1 steers, growing phase (n = 28, r = 0.52, P = 0.00); cohort 2 steers, growing phase (n = 25, r = 0.44, P = 0.01); and cohort 2 heifers, growing phase (n = 29, r = 0.28 P = 0.05). There were similar trends toward correlation of BVDUR and RFI for both steer groups and cohort 1 heifers, growing phase (C1HG; n = 29; r = 0.27, P = 0.06; r = 0.30, P = 0.07; and r = 0.26, P = 0.08, respectively). Feed bout frequency was correlated with ADG in C1HG and in cohort 2 steers, finishing phase (r = -0.31, P = 0.04, and r = 0.43, P = 0.01, respectively). Feed bout duration was correlated with ADG in heifer groups (r = 0.29 and r = 0.28, P = 0.05 for both groups) and DMI for all growing phase animals (r = 0.29 to 0.55, P ≤ 0.05 for all groups). Evaluation of growing vs. finishing phase steer groups suggests that all behaviors, RFI, and DMI, but not ADG, are correlated through the growing and finishing phases (P ≤ 0.01 for all variables excluding ADG), implying that feeding behaviors determined during the growing phase are strong predictors of DMI in either life stage. Sire maintenance energy EPD effects (measured as high or low groups) on progeny feeding behaviors revealed a difference in meal duration with a tendency to differ in average meal intake (P = 0.01 and P = 0.07, respectively). Feeding behavior duration traits may be useful predictors of DMI in Red Angus cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- M McGee
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - C M Welch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - J A Ramirez
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - G E Carstens
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - W J Price
- Statistical Programs, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - J B Hall
- University of Idaho Nancy M. Cummings Research, Education, and Extension Center, Carmen 83467
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
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Kayser W, Glaze JB, Welch CM, Kerley M, Hill RA. Evaluation of the effect of alternative measurements of body weight gain and dry matter intake for the calculation of residual feed intake in growing purebred Charolais and Red Angus cattle. J Anim Sci 2015; 93:3675-81. [PMID: 26440033 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-8337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of alternative-measurements of body weight and DMI used to evaluate residual feed intake (RFI). Weaning weight (WW), ADG, and DMI were recorded on 970 growing purebred Charolais bulls (n = 519) and heifers (n = 451) and 153 Red Angus growing steers (n = 69) and heifers (n = 84) using a GrowSafe (GrowSafe, Airdrie, Alberta, Canada) system. Averages of individual DMI were calculated in 10-d increments and compared to the overall DMI to identify the magnitude of the errors associated with measuring DMI. These incremental measurements were also used in calculation of RFI, computed from the linear regression of DMI on ADG and midtest body weight0.75 (MMWT). RFI_Regress was calculated using ADG_Regress (ADG calculated as the response of BW gain and DOF) and MMWT_PWG (metabolic midweight calculated throughout the postweaning gain test), considered the control in Red Angus. A similar calculation served as control for Charolais; RFI was calculated using 2-d consecutive start and finish weights (RFI_Calc). The RFI weaning weight (RFI_WW) was calculated using ADG_WW (ADG from weaning till the final out weight of the postweaning gain test) and MMWT_WW, calculated similarly. Overall average estimated DMI was highly correlated to the measurements derived over shorter periods, with 10 d being the least correlated and 60 d being the most correlated. The ADG_Calc (calculated using 2-d consecutive start and finish weight/DOF) and ADG_WW were highly correlated in Charolais. The ADG_Regress and ADG_Calc were highly correlated, and ADG_Regress and ADG_WW were moderately correlated in Red Angus. The control measures of RFI were highly correlated with the RFI_WW in Charolais and Red Angus. The outcomes of including abbreviated period DMI in the model with the weaning weight gain measurements showed that the model using 10 d of intake (RFI WW_10) was the least correlated with the control measures. The model with 60 d of intake had the largest correlation with the control measures. The fewest measured intake days coupled with the weaning weight values providing acceptable predictive value was RFI_WW_40, being highly correlated with the control measures. As established in the literature, at least 70 d is required to accurately measure ADG. However, we conclude that a shorter period, possibly as few as 40 d is needed to accurately estimate DMI for a reliable calculation of RFI.
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12
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Wu YWC, Du X, van den Buuse M, Hill RA. Analyzing the influence of BDNF heterozygosity on spatial memory response to 17β-estradiol. Transl Psychiatry 2015; 5:e498. [PMID: 25603414 PMCID: PMC4312832 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2014.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent use of estrogen-based therapies as adjunctive treatments for the cognitive impairments of schizophrenia has produced promising results; however the mechanism behind estrogen-based cognitive enhancement is relatively unknown. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) regulates learning and memory and its expression is highly responsive to estradiol. We recently found that estradiol modulates the expression of hippocampal parvalbumin-positive GABAergic interneurons, known to regulate neuronal synchrony and cognitive function. What is unknown is whether disruptions to the aforementioned estradiol-parvalbumin pathway alter learning and memory, and whether BDNF may mediate these events. Wild-type (WT) and BDNF heterozygous (+/-) mice were ovariectomized (OVX) at 5 weeks of age and simultaneously received empty, estradiol- or progesterone-filled implants for 7 weeks. At young adulthood, mice were tested for spatial and recognition memory in the Y-maze and novel-object recognition test, respectively. Hippocampal protein expression of BDNF and GABAergic interneuron markers, including parvalbumin, were assessed. WT OVX mice show impaired performance on Y-maze and novel-object recognition test. Estradiol replacement in OVX mice prevented the Y-maze impairment, a Behavioral abnormality of dorsal hippocampal origin. BDNF and parvalbumin protein expression in the dorsal hippocampus and parvalbumin-positive cell number in the dorsal CA1 were significantly reduced by OVX in WT mice, while E2 replacement prevented these deficits. In contrast, BDNF(+/-) mice showed either no response or an opposite response to hormone manipulation in both behavioral and molecular indices. Our data suggest that BDNF status is an important biomarker for predicting responsiveness to estrogenic compounds which have emerged as promising adjunctive therapeutics for schizophrenia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y W C Wu
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - X Du
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - M van den Buuse
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia,School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R A Hill
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia,Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Kenneth Myer Building, Genetics Lane, Royal Parade, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia. E-mail:
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13
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McGee M, Ramirez JA, Carstens GE, Price WJ, Hall JB, Hill RA. Relationships of feeding behaviors with efficiency in RFI-divergent Japanese Black cattle. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:3580-90. [PMID: 24948647 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-7360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
New approaches to limit expenses associated with input, without compromising profit, are needed in the beef industry. Residual feed intake (RFI) is an efficiency trait that measures variation in feed intake beyond maintenance, growth, and body composition. The addition of feeding behavior analysis to standard RFI tests may provide an approach to more readily identify feed-efficient cattle. The current study analyzes 7 feeding behaviors (BVFREQ: bunk visit frequency, BVDUR: bunk visit duration, FBFREQ: feed bout frequency, FBDUR: feed bout duration, MFREQ: meal frequency, MDUR: meal duration, and AMINT: average meal intake) and their relationships with RFI, ADG, and DMI in Japanese Black (Wagyu) cattle. Three cohorts of yearling Wagyu animals were studied using a standard 70-d RFI test, and data from divergent ( ± 0.5 SD from population RFI mean) subsets of animals were analyzed for feeding behaviors [n = 58, bulls on high-concentrate diet (C1); n = 36, bulls on a lower-concentrate diet (C2); n = 34, heifers on a lower-concentrate diet (C3)]. The following behaviors were correlated with ADG: BVFREQ (r = 0.32, P = 0.01; C1 bulls), BVDUR (r = 0.42, P = 0.01, C2 bulls), FBFREQ (r = 0.37, P < 0.01; C1 bulls), FBDUR (r = 0.46, P < 0.01, C1 bulls), and MFREQ (r = 0.42, P < 0.01, C2 bulls). Behaviors were trending or significantly correlated with DMI for all cases except for MFREQ for C3 and AMINT for C2. Residual feed intake was positively correlated with MDUR across all cohorts (r = 0.31, P = 0.02; r = 0.38, P = 0.02; r = 0.54, P ≥ 0.01, respectively). For C2 bulls and C3 heifers, RFI was positively correlated with behavior frequency categories (BVFREQ; r = 0.44, P = 0.01; r = 0.60, P ≤ 0.01, respectively, and FBFREQ r = 0.46, P ≤ 0.01; r = 0.60, P ≤ 0.01, respectively). Bunk visit frequency and FBFREQ were highly correlated with RFI status (high or low) in C2 bulls and C3 heifers. Behavior duration categories (BVDUR, FBDUR, and MDUR) were most correlated with efficiency status in C1 bulls. However, behavior frequency categories (BVFREQ and FBFREQ), as well as MDUR, were most correlated with efficiency status in C2 bulls and C3 heifers. Inclusion of meal duration measurements when evaluating RFI provides an additional tool in understanding the drivers of variation in this important trait in Wagyu cattle. The present study provides new insights into feed intake patterns of a beef breed for which there are few reports of feeding behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- M McGee
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - J A Ramirez
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - G E Carstens
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - W J Price
- Statistical Programs, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - J B Hall
- Nancy M. Cummings Research, Education, and Extension Center, University of Idaho, Carmen 83467
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
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14
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Welch CM, Thornton KJ, Murdoch GK, Chapalamadugu KC, Schneider CS, Ahola JK, Hall JB, Price WJ, Hill RA. An examination of the association of serum IGF-I concentration, potential candidate genes, and fiber type composition with variation in residual feed intake in progeny of Red Angus sires divergent for maintenance energy EPD1. J Anim Sci 2013; 91:5626-36. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-6609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C. M. Welch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - K. J. Thornton
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - G. K. Murdoch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - K. C. Chapalamadugu
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - C. S. Schneider
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - J. K. Ahola
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523
| | - J. B. Hall
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - W. J. Price
- Statistical Programs, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - R. A. Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
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15
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Nicolaou N, Ghassemi A, Hill RA. Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: the results of an evolving protocol of management. J Child Orthop 2013; 7:269-76. [PMID: 24432086 PMCID: PMC3799925 DOI: 10.1007/s11832-013-0499-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This retrospective cohort study assesses the outcomes of a protocol of management, based on the recommendations of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS) multi-centre study, for the management of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia. METHODS Utilising an incremental protocol of bracing, intramedullary rods and circular frame fixation with or without bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), 11 patients had reached skeletal maturity or had follow up of 5 years from radiological union of the pseudarthrosis. Demographic data, deformity parameters before and after treatment, and functional outcome scores were recorded. RESULTS Ten of the 11 patients successfully healed and two sustained a refracture. All deformity parameters improved and a mean leg length discrepancy of 2.5 cm (range 0-7.5 cm) existed at the time of the last follow up. Some pseudarthroses healed with deformity correction and rod insertion alone. Six of the 11 patients had a confirmed diagnosis of neurofibromatosis and nine had sustained a fracture before 4 years of age. Refracture was associated with malalignment after healing. CONCLUSION This method of treatment provides a successful stepwise protocol for the management of this complex disorder, avoiding the use of aggressive limb reconstruction techniques at a young age in some cases. Level of evidenceCase series Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Nicolaou
- />Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Maidstone, Kent UK
| | - A. Ghassemi
- />Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - R. A. Hill
- />Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK
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16
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Kayser W, Hill RA. Relationship between feed intake, feeding behaviors, performance, and ultrasound carcass measurements in growing purebred Angus and Hereford bulls. J Anim Sci 2013; 91:5492-9. [PMID: 23989865 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-6611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to examine the growth, DMI, and feeding behaviors of Angus and Hereford bulls; identify the relationships between feeding behaviors and variation in DMI and residual feed intake (RFI); and determine the value of feeding behaviors in predicting DMI. Individual DMI was measured in Angus bulls (n=189; initial BW=427±3.4 kg) and Hereford bulls (n=146; initial BW=411±4.1 kg) fed a grower ration for 71 d in 2009, 78 d in 2010, and 74 d in 2011 using a GrowSafe intake monitoring system. Feeding frequency (FF, meals/d), head down duration (HDD, s/d), head down duration per meal (HDDM, HDD/FF, s/meal), average meal size [AMS, kg/(meal·d)], and feeding rate (FR, g/s) were also measured or calculated using behavior data collected by the GrowSafe system. Ultrasound measures of 12th-rib fat thickness (UFT), longissimus muscle area (ULMA), and intramuscular fat (IMF) were determined during the midtest-weight event of every trial. The data from 3 yr were pooled to generate mean differences between the breeds. Residual feed intake was calculated using a linear regression of DMI on ADG and midtest BW0.75 (MMWT). Animals were classified into 3 RFI groups based on their RFI score as Low (>0.5 SD below the mean), Average (±0.5 SD from the mean), or High RFI (>0.5 SD above the mean). Angus bulls in the Low RFI group consumed 17% (P<0.0001) less DM than the bulls in the High RFI group, while in the Hereford bulls there was a 14% (P<0.0001) difference in DMI between Low and High RFI groups. Significant phenotypic correlations were observed between RFI and DMI (0.83, 0.77), G:F (-0.65, -0.51), HDD (0.41, 0.59), HDDM (0.40, 0.53), AMS (0.52, 0.36), and FR (-0.31, -0.51) in Angus and Hereford bulls, respectively. The HDD, HDDM, and FR were significantly correlated with DMI. The feeding behavior traits, HDD, HDDM, and FR when added to the RFI base model, explained 18, 17, and 13%, respectively, of the variation in DMI not explained by ADG and MMWT in Angus bulls. Similarly, in Hereford bulls, HDD, HDDM, and FR explained 35, 26, and 24%, respectively, of the variation in DMI not explained by ADG and MMWT. These data suggest that feeding behaviors are related to DMI of growing Angus and Hereford bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Kayser
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
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17
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Acharya S, Peters AM, Norton AS, Murdoch GK, Hill RA. Change in Nox4 expression is accompanied by changes in myogenic marker expression in differentiating C2C12 myoblasts. Pflugers Arch 2013; 465:1181-96. [PMID: 23503725 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-013-1241-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2012] [Revised: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Myoblast differentiation is mediated by a cascade of changes in gene expression including transcription factors such as myogenin. Subsequent to myoblast differentiation, there is an increase in expression of the transmembrane protein NADPH oxidase (Nox). Nox is one of the primary factors for the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in myogenic (C2C12) cells. Recently, ROS have been shown to be important regulators of several intracellular signaling pathways, and the full extent of their regulatory roles is yet to be discovered. In the present study, qRT PCR analysis demonstrated that Nox4 isoform is primarily expressed in differentiating C2C12 cells and contributes to the generation of ROS in C2C12 myoblast during differentiation. Over-expression and silencing of Nox4 expression during myoblast differentiation was accompanied by a reduction in intracellular ROS concentrations and an alteration in the expression patterns of Myf5, Pax7, MyoD1, and myogenin. This modulation was found to be associated with ERK1/2 phosphorylation. In both over-expression and reduced expression of Nox4, we found significant reductions in ERK1/2 phosphorylation. This indicates that cellular differentiation may be affected by Nox4-mediated endogenous ROS generation. These data suggest a new opportunity to study the temporal expression of Nox4 in the generation of ROS accompanying changes in myogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Acharya
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
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19
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Hill RA. Interaction of sex steroid hormones and brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tyrosine kinase B signalling: relevance to schizophrenia and depression. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:1553-61. [PMID: 22845879 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2012.02365.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 07/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones and neurotrophic factors are involved in pruning and shaping the developing brain and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Sex steroid hormones are also involved in the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression. A review of the literature is provided on the relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor and sex steroid hormones, as well as the mechanisms behind this interaction, in the context of how this relationship may be involved in the development of neurodevelopmental psychiatric illnesses, such as schizophrenia and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
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20
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Sanghrajka AP, Hill RA, Murnaghan CF, Simpson AHRW, Bellemore MC. Slipped upper tibial epiphysis in infantile tibia vara: three cases. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2012; 94:1288-91. [PMID: 22933505 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.94b9.28271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We describe three cases of infantile tibia vara resulting from an atraumatic slip of the proximal tibial epiphysis upon the metaphysis. There appears to be an association between this condition and severe obesity. Radiologically, the condition is characterised by a dome-shaped metaphysis, an open growth plate and disruption of the continuity between the lateral borders of the epiphysis and metaphysis, with inferomedial translation of the proximal tibial epiphysis. All patients were treated by realignment of the proximal tibia by distraction osteogenesis with an external circulator fixator, and it is suggested that this is the optimal method for correction of this complex deformity. There are differences in the radiological features and management between conventional infantile Blount's disease and this 'slipped upper tibial epiphysis' variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Sanghrajka
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Colney Lane, Norwich, NR4 7UY, UK.
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21
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Welch CM, Ahola JK, Hall JB, Murdoch GK, Crews DH, Davis LC, Doumit ME, Price WJ, Keenan LD, Hill RA. Relationships among performance, residual feed intake, and product quality of progeny from Red Angus sires divergent for maintenance energy EPD. J Anim Sci 2012; 90:5107-17. [PMID: 22871930 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Energy expenditure is a physiological process that may be closely associated with residual feed intake (RFI). The maintenance energy (ME(M)) EPD was developed by the Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) and is used as an indicator of energy expenditure. The objectives of this study were to evaluate and quantify the following relationships using progeny of Red Angus (RA) sires divergent for ME(M) EPD: 1) postweaning RFI and finishing phase feed efficiency (FE), 2) postweaning RFI and end-product quality, and 3) postweaning RFI and sire ME(M) EPD. A total of 12 RA sires divergent for ME(M) EPD were chosen using the RAAA-generated ME(M) EPD values and were partitioned into 2 groups: high ME(M) EPD (≥4 Mcal/mo) and low ME(M) EPD (<4 Mcal/mo), based on the breed average of 4 Mcal/mo. Commercial crossbred cows were inseminated to produce 3 cohorts of progeny, which were tested for postweaning RFI (cohorts 1, 2, and 3) and finishing phase FE (cohorts 1 and 3). Results indicate that postweaning RFI and finishing phase FE of steer progeny tended to be positively correlated (r = 0.38; P = 0.06) in cohort 1 and were positively correlated (r = 0.50; P = 0.001) in cohort 3. In addition, postweaning RFI was not phenotypically correlated (P > 0.05) with any carcass traits or end-product quality measurements. Sire ME(M) EPD was phenotypically correlated (P < 0.05) with carcass traits in cohort 1 (HCW, LM area, KPH, fat thickness, and yield grade) and cohort 2 (KPH and fat thickness). Since variation in measured LM area was not explained by the genetic potential of rib eye area EPD, and therefore, the observed correlation between sire ME(M) EPD and measured LM area may suggest an association between ME(M) EPD and LM area. A correlation (r = 0.24; P = 0.02) was observed between postweaning RFI and ultrasound intramuscular fat percentage in cohort 2 but was not detected in cohorts 1 or 3. In addition, no phenotypic relationship was observed (P > 0.05) between progeny postweaning RFI and sire ME(M) EPD. Therefore, results suggest 1) RFI measured during the postweaning growth phase is indicative of FE status in the finishing phase, 2) neither RFI nor sire ME(M) EPD negatively affected carcass or end-product quality, and 3) RFI and sire ME(M) EPD are not phenotypically associated.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Welch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
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22
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Thornton KJ, Welch CM, Davis LC, Doumit ME, Hill RA, Murdoch GK. Bovine sire selection based on maintenance energy affects muscle fiber type and meat color of F1 progeny1. J Anim Sci 2012; 90:1617-27. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2011-4678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K. J. Thornton
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - C. M. Welch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - L. C. Davis
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - M. E. Doumit
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - R. A. Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
| | - G. K. Murdoch
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow 83844
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Hill RA, Wu YWC, Kwek P, van den Buuse M. Modulatory effects of sex steroid hormones on brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tyrosine kinase B expression during adolescent development in C57Bl/6 mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:774-88. [PMID: 22221196 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2012.02277.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones and neurotrophic factors are involved in pruning and shaping the adolescent brain and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders, including mental illness. We aimed to determine the association between altered levels of sex steroid hormones during adolescent development and neurotrophic signalling in the C57Bl/6 mouse. We first performed a week by week analysis from pre-pubescence to adulthood in male and female C57Bl/6 mice, measuring serum levels of testosterone and oestradiol in conjunction with western blot analysis of neurotrophin expression in the forebrain and hippocampal regions. Second, we manipulated adolescent sex steroid hormone levels by gonadectomy and hormone replacement at the pre-pubescent age of 5 weeks. Young-adult forebrain and hippocampal neurotrophin expression was then determined. Male mice showed significant changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the forebrain regions during weeks 7-10, which corresponded significantly with a surge in serum testosterone. Castration and testosterone or di-hydrotestosterone replacement experiments revealed an androgen receptor-dependent effect on BDNF-tyrosine kinase (Trk) B signalling in the forebrain and hippocampal regions during adolescence. Female mice showed changes in BDNF-TrkB signalling at a much earlier time point (weeks 4-8) in the forebrain and hippocampal regions and these did not correspond with changes in serum oestradiol. Ovariectomy actually increased BDNF expression but decreased TrkB phosphorylation in the forebrain regions. 17β-Oestradiol replacement had no effect, suggesting a role for other ovarian hormones in regulating BDNF-TrkB signalling in the adolescent female mouse brain. These results suggest the differential actions of sex steroid hormones in modulating BDNF-TrkB signalling during adolescence. These data provide insight into how the male and female brain changes in response to altered levels of circulating sex steroid hormones and could help to explain some of the developmental sex differences in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders, including mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, Mental Health Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Abstract
We present our experience of forearm lengthening in children with various conditions performed by a single surgeon between 1995 and 2009. A total of 19 children with a mean age of 9.8 years (2.1 to 15.9) at the time of surgery had 22 forearm lengthenings using either an Ilizarov/spatial and Ilizarov circular frame or a monolateral external fixator. The patients were divided into two groups: group A, in whom the purpose of treatment was to restore the relationship between the radius and the ulna, and group B, in whom the objective was to gain forearm length. The mean follow-up after removal of the frame was 26 months (13 to 53). There were ten patients (11 forearms) in group A with a mean radioulnar discrepancy of 2.4 cm (1.5 to 3.3) and nine patients (11 forearms) in group B. In group A, the mean lengthening achieved was 2.7 cm (1.0 to 5.5), with a lengthening index of 11.1 weeks/cm. Equalisation or overcorrection of the discrepancy was achieved in seven of 11 forearms, but lengthening was only partially successful at preventing subluxation or dislocation of the radial head. In group B, the mean lengthening achieved was 3.8 cm (1.9 to 6.8), with a lengthening index of 7.25 weeks/cm. Common complications in both groups were pin-site infection and poor regenerate formation. Forearm lengthening by distraction osteogenesis is a worthwhile procedure in children that can improve cosmesis and function, particularly in patients with shortening of both radius and ulna.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. A. Hill
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great
Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - T. Ibrahim
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great
Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - H. A. Mann
- Royal Free Hospital, University
College London Medical School, Pond Street, London NW3
2QG, UK
| | - A. Siapkara
- Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory
Agency, 151 Buckingham Palace Road, London
SW1 9SZ, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, USA.
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Scott BR, Carwell DB, Hill RA, Bondioli KR, Godke RA, Gentry GT. 117 SERUM PROGESTERONE CONCENTRATION AND EMBRYO DIAMETER ON DAY 7 POST-OVULATION IN MARES. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv23n1ab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring serum progesterone (P4) concentrations has been a routine practice for determining phases of the oestrous cycle in mares. The use of maternal serum P4 concentration to estimate embryo size would be beneficial in determining the proper collection time for equine embryos destined for cryopreservation and transfer. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if embryo diameter was correlated with maternal serum P4 concentration on Day 7 post-ovulation. Light horse mares of various breeds (n = 40) were used in this study. The mares were in good body condition and ranged in age from 3 to 18 yrs. Oestrus detection was performed first with a stallion followed by reproductive tract examinations via transrectal ultrasonography to predict ovulation. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture before artificial insemination (AI) (Day 0) and again on Day 7 post-ovulation. Blood samples were allowed to clot, then centrifuged for 10 min at 2600 × g and serum stored at –20°C until assayed. Each donor mare was inseminated with extended fresh semen every other day until ovulation. On Day 7 post-ovulation, a nonsurgical embryo collection was performed on inseminated mares by a single technician using a standard equine uterine flushing procedure. Only blood samples taken from mares in which an embryo was collected were analysed (n = 18). Blood samples were collected from similar noninseminated mares (n = 12) from the same research herd on the day of expected AI (Day 0) and again on Day 7 post-ovulation. Serum progesterone was determined using a P4 fluorometric enzyme immunoassay (FEIA; Tosoh Bioscience, Inc., South San Francisco, CA). Embryo diameter was measured including the zona pellucida using Micron Software (Westover Scientific). Mean P4 concentrations (±s.e.) for all inseminated donors producing an embryo were 0.49 ± 0.1 ng mL–1 at Day 0 and 12.9 ± 1.2 ng mL–1 on Day 7 post-ovulation. Mean P4 concentration of donors on Day 7 post-ovulation with embryo diameters of <400 μm (n = 7) was not different from donors producing embryos >400 μm (n = 10) and were 11.2 ± 1.7 ng mL–1 and 14.1 ± 1.7 ng mL–1, respectively. One mare produced viable twin embryos (284 and 373 μm in diameter) and had a P4 level of 35 ng mL–1 on Day 7 post-ovulation, and was not included in the data analysis. Mean P4 concentrations in the noninseminated mares were 0 0.68 ± 0.2 ng mL–1 on Day 0 and 12.3 ± 1.6 ng mL–1 on Day 7 post-ovulation and were not different from embryo-producing mares regardless of embryo size. From this preliminary study, that there is no evidence that embryo diameter is correlated with maternal progesterone concentrations on Day 7 post-ovulation.
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Hill RA, Chung H, George E, Longson C, Stevens A. Prasugrel for the treatment of acute coronary syndromes with percutaneous coronary intervention: NICE technology appraisal guidance. Heart 2010; 96:1407-8. [PMID: 20801857 DOI: 10.1136/hrt.2010.202853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Centre for Health Technology Evaluation, National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, London, UK.
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Abstract
To establish the basis for implementation of a producer education program, a social assessment of the willingness and barriers to adoption of a measure of feed efficiency in beef cattle [residual feed intake (RFI)] was conducted. A 35-question mailed survey was sent to 1,888 producers acquired from the stratified random sample of the Idaho Cattle Association member list (n = 488), Red Angus Association of America member list (n = 2,208), and Red Angus Association of America bull buyer list (n = 5,325). The adjusted response rate for the survey was 49.9%. Of the survey respondents, 58.7% were commercial cow/calf producers and 41.3% were seedstock producers or operated a combination seedstock/commercial operation. Commercial operations had an average of 223 ± 17 cows and 13 ± 3 bulls, whereas seedstock herds (including combination herds) had slightly fewer cows (206 ± 24) and more bulls (23 ± 6). Both commercial and seedstock operators indicated that calving ease/birth weight was the most important trait used to evaluate genetic merit of breeding bulls. Only 3.8 and 4.8% of commercial and seedstock producers indicated that feed efficiency was the most important characteristic used for bull selection. Binary logistic regression models were used to predict willingness of seedstock producers to begin collecting data for the calculation of RFI on their bulls, or to predict willingness of commercial producers to begin selecting bulls based on RFI data. In response, 49.1% of commercial producers and 43.6% of seedstock producers indicated they were willing to adopt RFI as a measure of feed efficiency. These data indicate that feed efficiency was one of the traits that producers consider important; those who perceive feed efficiency as important tended to be actively involved in data collection on their herds, underpinning the notion that objective assessment was valued and used by some. Additional data collection in a future social assessment will continue to elaborate the proportion of producers who perceive feed efficiency as an increasingly important decision and management tool for beef production.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Wulfhorst
- Social Science Research Unit, University of Idaho, Moscow, 83844, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-2330, USA.
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Aston WJS, Calder PR, Baker D, Hartley J, Hill RA. Lengthening of the congenital short femur using the Ilizarov technique: a single-surgeon series. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 91:962-7. [PMID: 19567864 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.91b7.21304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We present a retrospective review of a single-surgeon series of 30 consecutive lengthenings in 27 patients with congenital short femur using the Ilizarov technique performed between 1994 and 2005. The mean increase in length was 5.8 cm/18.65% (3.3 to 10.4, 9.7% to 48.8%), with a mean time in the frame of 223 days (75 to 363). By changing from a distal to a proximal osteotomy for lengthening, the mean range of knee movement was significantly increased from 98.1 degrees to 124.2 degrees (p = 0.041) and there was a trend towards a reduced requirement for quadricepsplasty, although this was not statistically significant (p = 0.07). The overall incidence of regenerate deformation or fracture requiring open reduction and internal fixation was similar in the distal and proximal osteotomy groups (56.7% and 53.8%, respectively). However, in the proximal osteotomy group, pre-placement of a Rush nail reduced this rate from 100% without a nail to 0% with a nail (p < 0.001). When comparing a distal osteotomy with a proximal one over a Rush nail for lengthening, there was a significant decrease in fracture rate from 58.8% to 0% (p = 0.043). We recommend that in this group of patients lengthening of the femur with an Ilizarov construct be carried out through a proximal osteotomy over a Rush nail. Lengthening should also be limited to a maximum of 6 cm during one treatment, or 20% of the original length of the femur, in order to reduce the risk of complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J S Aston
- Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, UK.
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Willems EP, Barton RA, Hill RA. Remotely sensed productivity, regional home range selection, and local range use by an omnivorous primate. Behav Ecol 2009. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arp087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Allen JD, Ahola JK, Chahine M, Szasz JI, Hunt CW, Schneider CS, Murdoch GK, Hill RA. Effect of preslaughter feeding and ractopamine hydrochloride supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and end product quality in market dairy cows. J Anim Sci 2009; 87:2400-8. [PMID: 19359500 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2008-1630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An experiment was conducted in market dairy cows to determine the effect of feeding time and ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and end product quality. In 3 replicates, 9 Holstein cows per replicate (n = 27; 659 +/- 25.3 kg initial BW) culled from 3 dairies were randomly assigned to 3 treatments: 1) slaughter immediately (control), 2) feed for 90 d (NoR), or 3) feed for 90 d with RAC (312 mg.cow(-1).d(-1)) for the final 32 d (RAC). On d 0, NoR and RAC cows were placed in individual pens and fed a high concentrate diet (86% concentrate, DM basis) for 90 d before slaughter. All cows were subjectively scored for BCS and locomotion score on d 0, and NoR and RAC cows were evaluated again after 90 d. Individual DMI was recorded daily throughout the trial, and BW was collected every 14 d. Age and age x treatment did not affect (P > 0.05) any of the traits evaluated in this study. When cows fed for 90 d (NoR and RAC combined) were compared with nonfed controls, fed cows had greater (P < 0.001) final BCS, BW and HCW, lower (P < 0.001) final locomotion score, and greater (P < 0.03) dressing percentage, external fat thickness, and marbling score. Fed cows also tended to have more desirable yield grade (P = 0.08), ribeye area (P = 0.11), fat color (P = 0.09), lean maturity (P = 0.06), and quality grade (P = 0.09) compared with control cows. Warner-Bratzler shear force was not affected (P = 0.23) by feeding. However, a 12-member trained sensory panel revealed that fed cow carcasses had more desirable (P < 0.04) tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptability than control cow carcasses. Flavor intensity also tended (P = 0.10) to be more desirable for fed vs. control cows. No difference (P > 0.10) in off-flavor was detected among treatments. Finally, there was no effect (P > 0.10) of RAC on growth performance, carcass characteristics, or end product quality. In conclusion, feeding a high concentrate diet for 90 d improved important live animal, carcass, and end product characteristics related to the quality and palatability of beef from market dairy cows; however, no effect of RAC supplementation was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Allen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA
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Abstract
AIMS Assessment of antimicrobial activity of the mycoparasite Coniothyrium minitans and its macrolide antibiotic macrosphelide A. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirteen isolates of C. minitans were tested for ability to inhibit a number of filamentous fungi, yeasts, oomycetes and bacteria in agar based tests. Activity was found against some ascomycetes, basidiomycetes, oomycetes and Gram-positive bacteria, but not against zygomycetes, yeasts or Gram-negative bacteria tested. Six C. minitans isolates (Conio, Contans, IVT1, CM/AP/3118, B279/1, A1/327/1) were found to produce macrosphelide A in liquid culture and no other antibiotics were detected. On agar, macrosphelide A inhibited growth of some ascomycetes, basidiomycetes, oomycetes and all four Gram-positive bacteria tested, including the medically important Staphylococcus aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration of < or =500 microg ml(-1). There was no inhibition observed against the yeasts and Gram-negative bacteria when macrosphelide A was tested at 700 microg ml(-1). CONCLUSIONS The spectrum and level of activity of macrosphelide A produced by C. minitans against micro-organisms are extended markedly compared to previous reports. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Macrosphelide A was effective against Staph. aureus. Further study on the control of this bacterium is merited in view of the development of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Tomprefa
- Warwick HRI, University of Warwick, Wellesbourne, Warwick, UK
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-2330, USA.
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Hill RA, Boland A, Dickson R, Dündar Y, Haycox A, McLeod C, Mujica Mota R, Walley T, Bagust A. Drug-eluting stents: a systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2008; 11:iii, xi-221. [PMID: 17999841 DOI: 10.3310/hta11460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the use of drug-eluting coronary artery stents in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with coronary artery disease. DATA SOURCES Bibliographic databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library, were searched from December 2002 to August 2005. Hand-searching was also done. REVIEW METHODS A systematic literature review of effectiveness was conducted focusing primarily on randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Full economic evaluations that compared two or more options and considered both costs and consequences were eligible for inclusion in the economics review. A critique of manufacturer submissions to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence and an economic evaluation in the form of cost-utility analysis were also carried out. RESULTS In the 17 RCTs of drug-eluting stents (DES) versus bare metal stents (BMS), no statistically significant differences in mortality or myocardial infarction (MI) were identified up to 3 years. Significant reductions in repeat revascularisations were determined for DES compared with BMS [for example, at 1 year: target lesion revascularisation (TLR) relative risk 0.24; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.19 to 0.31; and target vessel revascularisation (TVR) relative risk 0.43; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.55]. This estimated benefit appears to be stable from 1 to 3 years. Binary restenosis and late luminal loss also favoured DES. In the eight RCTs of DES versus DES, no statistically significant differences in mortality or MI were detected between DES designs. In meta-analyses of TLR, TVR and composite event rate, marginal improvement in efficacy of Cypher trade mark over Taxus trade mark was observed. These results await confirmation beyond 1 year and differences in study design may have influenced reporting of outcomes. Ten full economic evaluations were included in the review and the balance of evidence indicated that DES are more cost-effective in higher risk patients. The review of submitted models confirmed the view that DES may be cost-effective only under very limited circumstances when realistic assumptions and data values were used. In the cost-utility analysis of DES versus BMS, the use of DES appears to reduce the rate of repeat revascularisations; benefit estimates used in the economic assessment are defined as 'broad' (i.e. cases involving any TLR/TVR irrespective of any other lesions/vessels undergoing revascularisation) and 'narrow' (i.e. cases involving TLR/TVR only). The incremental benefit to the patient is therefore described as the loss of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) avoided by not having to undergo a repeat revascularisation. Univariate sensitivity analysis and extreme values analysis indicate that the price premium, numbers of stents used in the index procedure and absolute risk reduction in repeat interventions most significantly influence the cost-effectiveness ratios. Sensitivity analyses also permit a range of values for efficacy and effectiveness to be considered for individual designs of DES. The cost-effectiveness results reveal that, all patients considered together, the calculated cost per QALY ratios are high (183,000-562,000 pounds) and outside the normal range of acceptability. Cost-effectiveness is only achieved for those non-elective patients who have undergone a previous coronary artery bypass graft and have small vessels. 'Real-world' data show that patient numbers in this latter group are very small (one in 3100 of all patients treated with PCI). CONCLUSIONS The conclusions of the assessment are that the use of DES would be best targeted at the subgroups of patients with the highest risks of requiring reintervention, and could be considered cost-effective in only a small percentage of such patents. This is similar to the conclusion of our previous assessment. Trials of DES compared with new generation BMS and with DES would be useful, as would further evaluation of newer BMS in combination with drug administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, University of Liverpool, UK
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McLeod C, Bagust A, Boland A, Dagenais P, Dickson R, Dundar Y, Hill RA, Jones A, Mujica Mota R, Walley T. Adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a systematic review and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2007; 11:1-158, iii-iv. [PMID: 17651658 DOI: 10.3310/hta11280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the comparative clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). DATA SOURCES Major electronic databases were searched up to November 2005. Unpublished evidence such as conference abstracts, reviews of published economic evaluations, and company submissions to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) were also reviewed. REVIEW METHODS The assessment was conducted according to accepted procedures for conducting and reporting systematic reviews and economic evaluations. Full economic evaluations that compared two or more options for treatment and considered both costs and consequences were eligible for inclusion in the economic literature review. RESULTS Nine placebo controlled randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the review of clinical effects. These included two studies of adalimumab, five of etanercept and two of infliximab in comparison with placebo (along with conventional management). No RCTs directly comparing anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) agents were identified. Meta-analyses were conducted for data on Assessment in Ankylosing Spondylitis (ASAS) (20, 50 and 70% improvement), mean change in Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and mean change in Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) at 12 weeks following initiation of anti-TNF-alpha therapy or placebo for all three drugs. Meta-analyses were also conducted at 24 weeks for etanercept and infliximab. Each meta-analysis of anti-TNF-alpha therapy demonstrated statistically significant advantages over placebo, although there was no significant difference between individual anti-TNF-alpha agents. At 12 weeks, ASAS 50% responses were 3.6-fold more likely with anti-TNF-alpha treatment than placebo. Compared with baseline, BASDAI scores were reduced by close to 2 points at 12 weeks. Functional scores (BASFI) were reduced at 12 weeks. Six full economic evaluations (two peer-reviewed published papers, four abstracts) were included in the review. The conclusions among economic evaluations were mixed, although the balance of evidence indicates that over short time-frames anti-TNF-alpha therapies are unlikely to be considered cost-effective. The limitations of the clinical outcome data impose restrictions on the economic assessment of cost-effectiveness. Direct unbiased RCT evidence is only available in the short term. Current assessment tools are limited and at present BASDAI and BASFI are the best available, although not designed for, or ideal for, use in economic evaluations. The review of the three models submitted to NICE identified a number of inherent flaws and errors. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) of etanercept and adalimumab were roughly similar, falling below an assumed willingness-to-pay threshold of 30,000 pounds. The ICER for infliximab was in the range of 40,000-50,000 pounds per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). The short-term (12-month) model developed by this report's authors confirmed the large front-loading of costs with a result that none of the three anti-TNF-alpha agents appears cost-effective at the current acceptable threshold, with infliximab yielding much poorer economic results (57,000-120,000 pounds per QALY). The assumptions of the short-term model were used to explore the cost-effectiveness of the use of anti-TNF-alpha agents in the long term. This model is far more speculative than the first since trends and parameter values must be projected far beyond the available evidence. Sensitivity analyses reveal wide variations in estimates of cost over the long term although it is considered unlikely that costs will decrease over time. CONCLUSIONS The review of clinical data related to the three drugs (including conventional treatment) compared with conventional treatment plus placebo indicates that in the short term (12-24 weeks), the three treatments are clinically effective in relation to assessment of ASAS, BASDAI and BASFI. Indirect comparisons of treatments were limited and did not show a significant difference in effectiveness between the three agents. The short-term economic assessment indicates that none of the three anti-TNF-alpha agents is likely to be considered cost-effective at current acceptability thresholds, with infliximab consistently the least favourable option. There is an absence of evidence concerning a number of limiting factors related to patients suffering from AS, the disease itself and its treatment. In order to obtain robust estimates of the longer term clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of anti-TNF-alpha agents for AS, clinical trials that aim to address these limiting factors need to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- C McLeod
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, UK
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Baker SD, Szasz JI, Klein TA, Kuber PS, Hunt CW, Glaze JB, Falk D, Richard R, Miller JC, Battaglia RA, Hill RA. Residual feed intake of purebred Angus steers: Effects on meat quality and palatability. J Anim Sci 2006; 84:938-45. [PMID: 16543572 DOI: 10.2527/2006.844938x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Relationships between residual feed intake (RFI) and other performance variables were determined using 54 purebred Angus steers. Individual feed intake and BW gain were recorded during a 70-d post-weaning period to calculate RFI. After the 70-d post-weaning test, steers were fed a finishing ration to a similar fat thickness (FT), transported to a commercial facility, and slaughtered. A subsample of carcasses (n = 32) was selected to examine the relationships among RFI, meat quality, and palatability. Steers were categorized into high (> 0.5 SD above the mean; n = 16), medium (mid; +/- 0.5 SD from the mean; n = 21), and low (< 0.5 SD below the mean; n = 17) RFI groups. No differences were detected in ADG, initial BW, and d 71 BW among the high, mid, and low RFI steers. Steers from the high RFI group had a greater DMI (P = 0.004) and feed conversion ratio (FCR; DMI:ADG; P = 0.002) compared with the low RFI steers. Residual feed intake was positively correlated with DMI (r = 0.54; P = 0.003) and FCR (r = 0.42; P = 0.002), but not with initial BW, d 71 BW, d 71 ultrasound FT, initial ultrasound LM area, d 71 ultrasound LM area, or ADG. The FCR was positively correlated with initial BW (r = 0.46; P = 0.0005), d 71 BW (r = 0.34; P = 0.01), and DMI (r = 0.40; P = 0.003) and was negatively correlated with ADG (r = -0.65; P = 0.001). There were no differences among RFI groups for HCW, LM area, FT, KPH, USDA yield grade, marbling score, or quality grade. Reflectance color b* scores of steaks from high RFI steers were greater (P = 0.02) than those from low RFI steers. There was no difference between high and low RFI groups for LM calpastatin activity. Warner-Bratzler shear force and sensory panel tenderness and flavor scores of steaks were similar across RFI groups. Steaks from high RFI steers had lower (P = 0.04) off-flavor scores than those from low RFI steers. Cook loss percentages were greater (P = 0.005) for steaks from low RFI steers than for those from mid RFI steers. These data support current views that RFI is independent of ADG, but is correlated with DMI and FCR. Importantly, the data also support the hypothesis that there is no relationship between RFI and beef quality in purebred Angus steers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Baker
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, Moscow, 83844, USA
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Abstract
As a behavioural strategy, cathemerality is thought to confer considerable advantages by allowing animals to extend activity flexibly into either the diurnal or nocturnal phase in response to the prevailing ecological conditions. Factors such as temperature, access to food sources and minimising the risk of predation are all thought to be important in promoting cathemerality, although previous studies have produced inconsistent results. This paper adopts a different approach by first asking whether an obligate diurnal species, the chacma baboon (Papio hamadryas ursinus), exhibits seasonal variation in behavioural flexibility in response to annual cycles of day length. While short day lengths are an important constraint on the activity of the baboons at De Hoop Nature Reserve, South Africa, long summer days permit considerable flexibility in thermoregulatory response, diet selection and patterns of habitat choice. Given that baboons adapt flexibly in response to a relaxation of time constraints, the question thus arises as to why diurnal and nocturnal primates do not adopt cathemeral activity patterns when time is constrained? For baboons, the costs of predation appear to prohibit exploitation of the nocturnal phase and it is likely that such constraints are true of most primates. It thus follows that Madagascar's predatory environment must in some way permit or select for a cathemeral lifestyle. The importance of the predation by fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) on the evolution of cathemerality is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- Evolutionary Anthropology Research Group, Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK.
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Mahaluxmivala J, Nadarajah R, Allen PW, Hill RA. Ilizarov external fixator: acute shortening and lengthening versus bone transport in the management of tibial non-unions. Injury 2005; 36:662-8. [PMID: 15826629 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2004.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2003] [Revised: 10/08/2004] [Accepted: 10/21/2004] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Eighteen patients with tibial shaft non-unions were treated by the Ilizarov method between March 1995 and September 2001 by the senior author. Three subgroups of six patients each were treated by either acute shortening and lengthening, bone transport or simple stabilisation with a frame. All aspects of non-union, infection, shortening, deformity and bone loss were addressed by using Ilizarov principles. There were 10 cases of infected non-unions in the entire series. Bone resection in the shortening group was between 3 and 6 cm (median 4.6) compared to 3-7.5 cm (median 5.9) in the bone transport group. Union was achieved in all the patients with the average time to union at 12.1 months, 17.2 months and 8.0 months, respectively. The bone transport group required additional bone grafting in five patients (83.3%) prior to union compared to one (16.7%) in the acute shortening group.
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Simpson ER, Misso M, Hewitt KN, Hill RA, Boon WC, Jones ME, Kovacic A, Zhou J, Clyne CD. Estrogen--the good, the bad, and the unexpected. Endocr Rev 2005; 26:322-30. [PMID: 15817672 DOI: 10.1210/er.2004-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E R Simpson
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Monash Medical Center, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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Abstract
The 'social brain hypothesis' for the evolution of large brains in primates has led to evidence for the coevolution of neocortical size and social group sizes, suggesting that there is a cognitive constraint on group size that depends, in some way, on the volume of neural material available for processing and synthesizing information on social relationships. More recently, work on both human and non-human primates has suggested that social groups are often hierarchically structured. We combine data on human grouping patterns in a comprehensive and systematic study. Using fractal analysis, we identify, with high statistical confidence, a discrete hierarchy of group sizes with a preferred scaling ratio close to three: rather than a single or a continuous spectrum of group sizes, humans spontaneously form groups of preferred sizes organized in a geometrical series approximating 3-5, 9-15, 30-45, etc. Such discrete scale invariance could be related to that identified in signatures of herding behaviour in financial markets and might reflect a hierarchical processing of social nearness by human brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- W.-X. Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Reaction Engineering, East China University of Science and TechnologyShanghai 200237China
- Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA 90095USA
| | - D. Sornette
- Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA 90095USA
- Department of Earth and Space Sciences, University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA 90095USA
- Laboratoire de Physique de la Matière Condensée, CNRS UMR 6622 and Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis06108 Nice Cedex 2France
| | - R. A. Hill
- Evolutionary Anthropology Research Group, Department of Anthropology, University of Durham43 Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HNUK
| | - R. I. M. Dunbar
- British Academy Centenary Project, School of Biological Sciences, University of LiverpoolCrown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZBUK
- * Author for correspondence ()
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Abstract
Adipose and muscle tissues undergo regulated growth and differentiation processes that are modulated by a wide range of factors. The interactions between myogenic cells and adipocytes play a significant role in growth and development, including the rate and extent of myogenesis, muscle growth, adipogenesis, lipogenesis/lipolysis, and in the utilization of energy substrates. Important hormones and growth factors involved in the regulation of these processes include glucocorticoids, insulin-like growth factors, various cytokines, insulin, and leptin. Interactions among these axes have important implications in their influence on relative fat and lean deposition and the efficiency of energy utilization in growth and development. As research progresses to better clarify the interactions among adipose tissue depots and muscle of different fiber types, pathways will become better understood, ultimately leading to the optimized management of fat and lean growth in domestic livestock species. This review will focus on elements of intercellular signaling, using data from cell culture studies to illustrate specific examples of signaling pathways between cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- T A Kokta
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Idaho, 311 Agricultural Biotechnology Building, P.O. Box 442330, Moscow, ID 83844-2330, USA
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Wenaden AET, McHugh K, Hill RA, Hall CM. Pseudarthrosis presenting as a late complication of meningococcal septicaemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Skeletal Radiol 2004; 33:287-90. [PMID: 14997350 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-004-0747-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2003] [Revised: 12/09/2003] [Accepted: 12/24/2003] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Late skeletal complications of meningococcal septicaemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation are well recognised in children and are largely centred on the growing epimetaphyseal region of long bones. In this article we describe a case of pseudarthrosis of the mid-ulna presenting 18 months following a devastating episode of meningococcal septicaemia in a 3-year-old boy. Radiographs and MRI demonstrated the ulna abnormality. We briefly review the late skeletal complications of the disease and other causes of pseudarthrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E T Wenaden
- Department of Radiology, The Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 OHS, London, UK.
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Lutman ER, Jones SR, Hill RA, McDonald P, Lambers B. Comparison between the predictions of a Gaussian plume model and a Lagrangian particle dispersion model for annual average calculations of long-range dispersion of radionuclides. J Environ Radioact 2004; 75:339-355. [PMID: 15193798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2003.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2003] [Revised: 08/27/2003] [Accepted: 11/28/2003] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This study attempts to validate the applicability of a simple Gaussian dispersion model for predicting long-range dispersion of continuous releases from an industrial site, by comparison with a Lagrangian particle dispersion model. The United Kingdom Meteorological Office model NAME has been used to predict annual average concentrations of radionuclides over Western Europe, resulting from discharges from the British Nuclear Fuels (BNFL) site at Sellafield, UK. The results are compared here to calculations performed using a conventional Gaussian type of dispersion model, PLUME. The results of the Gaussian model were compared at 14 locations within Western Europe at long range (up to 1700 km). The differences in predictions between the models were explained readily by differences in the way dispersion and deposition processes are represented in the two models. However, differences are generally small compared to the expected precision of the models. The implementation of environmental processes in NAME is more complete and realistic than in PLUME, and as such the results from this model may be considered more realistic. However, given that PLUME is much simpler to use, and appears to over-estimate, rather than under-estimate, environmental concentrations, its use for radiological assessments appears appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Lutman
- Department of Environmental Science, Westlakes Scientific Consulting Ltd, International Research and Graduate Centre, Westlakes Science and Technology Park, Moor Row, Cumbria CA24 3LN, UK.
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Cooney JM, Vanneste JL, Lauren DR, Hill RA. Quantitative determination of the antifungal compound 6‐pentyl‐α‐pyrone (6PAP) using a simple plate bioassay. Lett Appl Microbiol 2003. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.1997.00342.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. M. Cooney
- HortResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - J. L. Vanneste
- HortResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - D. R. Lauren
- HortResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - R. A. Hill
- HortResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Hill
- University of California, Irvine Department of Ophthalmology, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA92697-4375, USA;
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Jones S, Hosalkar HS, Hill RA, Hartley J. Relapsed infantile Blount's disease treated by hemiplateau elevation using the Ilizarov frame. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2003; 85:565-71. [PMID: 12793565 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.85b4.13602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We have treated seven children with relapsed infantile Blount's disease by elevation of the hemiplateau using the Ilizarov frame. Three boys and four girls with a mean age of 10.5 years were reviewed at a mean of 29 months after surgery. All had improved considerably and were pleased with the results. The improvements in radiological measurements were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Three-dimensional CT reconstruction was useful for planning surgery. There were no major complications. The advantages of this technique are that in addition to elevation of the hemiplateau, rotational deformities and limb-length discrepancies may be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jones
- Division of Paediatric Orthopaedics, Hospital for Sick Children, London, England, UK
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Hosalkar HS, Jones S, Chowdhury M, Hartley J, Hill RA. Quadricepsplasty for knee stiffness after femoral lengthening in congenital short femur. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2003; 85:261-4. [PMID: 12678364 DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.85b2.13144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
We review the results of a modified quadricepsplasty in five children who developed stiffness of the knee after femoral lengthening for congenital short femur using an Ilizarov external fixator which spanned the knee. All had a full range of movement of the knee before lengthening was undertaken. Unifocal lengthening was carried out in the distal metaphysiodiaphyseal region of the distal femur with a mean gain of 6.5 cm. The mean percentage lengthening was 24%. At the end of one year after removal of the Ilizarov frame and despite intensive physiotherapy all patients had stiffness. Physiotherapy was continued after the quadricepsplasty and, at the latest follow-up (mean 27 months), the mean active flexion was 102 degrees (80 to 130). The gain in movement ranged from 50 degrees to 100 degrees. One patient had a superficial wound infection which settled after a course of oral antibiotics. None developed an increased extension lag after surgery and all were very satisfied with the results. Quadricepsplasty is a useful procedure for stiffness of the knee after femoral lengthening which has not responded to physiotherapy.
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