Using in feed xylanase or stimbiotic to reduce the variability in corn nutritive value for broiler chickens.

This study investigated the effects of xylanase and stimbiotic (fiber fermentation enhancer) on the response of broiler chickens fed different corn varieties and determine correlations between variables of interest. Four corn genetic varieties were selected based on their range in nutrient composition. Diets containing 600 g/kg of each corn were supplemented with 0 or 100 g/ton of xylanase or stimbiotic. A total of 1,152 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were divided into 12 treatments, each with 8 pens and 12 birds per pen, for a 21-day study. On d 21, performance parameters were measured, and the ileal energy and organic matter (OM) digestibility and cecal xylanase activity determined. Stimbiotic supplementation improved mFCR compared with all other treatments. There was a treatment by corn variety interaction for body weight (BW), BW gain and coefficient of variation (CV) of BW (P ≤ 0.05). Birds fed corn Variety 1 (highest neutral dietary fiber, protein and soluble arabinoxylan content) supplemented with stimbiotic had the highest BW, while Variety 2 control diet had the lowest. The BW CV in corn Variety 2 was the highest, which improved with stimbiotic supplementation. The BW CV in corn Variety 1 responded better to stimbiotic than xylanase. There were no treatment differences on BW CV in corn Varieties 3 and 4. The lowest OM digestibility was observed in birds fed corn Variety 1 with xylanase, and the highest value was associated with corn Variety 3 with xylanase (highest total arabinoxylan). Xylanase and stimbiotic supplementation increased the endogenous xylanase activity regardless of the corn variety (P ≤ 0.05). Positive correlations between corn fiber contents and phytic acid and the arabinose:xylose ratio were seen, while nonstarch polysaccharide content was negatively correlated with apparent metabolizable energy. In conclusion, corn variety influenced nutrient digestibility and broiler chicken growth. The response to supplementation with xylanase or stimbiotic varied based on the nutritional profile of corn with regards to improvements in digestibility and performance in broiler chickens.

Exploring zinc deficiency using serum Zn levels: consequences and potential solutions in suckling pigs.

Three trials were undertaken to provide an answer to different questions: 1) Are suckling pigs able to maintain physiological serum Zn levels throughout lactation and do these levels vary between high and low body weight (BW) pigs?, 2) Are serum Zn levels in pigs soon after weaning a predisposing factor for diarrhea?, and 3) Is it possible to increase serum Zn levels at weaning by supplementing Zn during lactation. In trial 1, blood samples were taken from pigs during lactation. Eight pigs (one piglet per litter) had blood drawn on days 0 (farrowing), 7, 14, 21, and 28 (weaning), and 60 pigs (selected from the whole farrowing batch with 35 sows), categorized as either heavy (8.63 kg) or light (5.50 kg) had blood drawn on day 28. Serum Zn levels at birth were 1.2 mg/L and decreased (P < 0.01) to 0.67 mg/L on day 28. Heavier pigs showed greater (P < 0.01) serum Zn levels (0.98 mg/L) than light BW pigs (0.79 mg/L). In trial 2, blood samples were obtained from 240 pigs at weaning (26.2 ±â€…2.5 d) with an average initial BW of 6.94 ±â€…1.87 kg and were distributed into 24 pens (10 pigs/pen) by BW. Diarrhea incidence was recorded daily from days 0 to 35 post-weaning. From the 240 pigs, a group of 110 pigs with uniform BW (6.5 ±â€…1.9 kg) was selected and separated into two groups based on serum Zn levels at weaning with 55 pigs with low serum Zn (LZn: <0.71 mg/L) and 55 pigs with high serum Zn (HZn: >0.9 mg/L). Pigs with LZn were 2.49 times as likely to have diarrhea as pigs with HZn (P < 0.02). In trial 3, a total of 96 suckling pigs were allotted four treatments that consisted of the daily administration of 0, 6, 18, or 30 mg of Zn as Zn citrate in capsule form during the last 7 d of lactation. Pigs were individually weighed, and blood samples were obtained on days 14, 21 (weaning), and 7 after weaning. Serum Zn levels linearly increased by day as Zn citrate supplementation increased (interaction, P < 0.001). However, only light pigs supplemented with 18 and 30 mg/L of Zn experienced an increase in serum Zn levels during lactation. In conclusion, a decrease in serum Zn levels occurs during lactation and is more severe in low BW pigs. Low Zn status (< 0.7 mg/L) at weaning may be a predisposing factor for diarrhea. However, Zn supplementation during lactation can mitigate this decrease in light pigs.

At weaning, young pigs may experience a decrease in serum Zn levels which can predispose them to diarrhea, particularly when fed diets with nutritional Zn levels. For several decades, this gap has been covered by using therapeutic levels of Zn. However, due to the negative collateral effects of these supra doses, from June 2022 in the EU the maximum level of Zn allowed in piglet diets is 150 mg/kg. In this scenario, it is imperative to investigate the Zn status evolution in pigs even before weaning, to anticipate the appearance of Zn deficiencies. This study had three main objectives: to investigate the Zn serum levels of light and heavy body weight pigs during lactation, to study these Zn levels as a predisposing factor to developing diarrhea during weaning and to study the effects of extra Zn supplementation during lactation to prevent Zn deficiency while weaning. Overall, the results indicate a decrease in pig serum Zn levels during lactation which is more severe in low body weight pigs. Low Zn status at weaning may be a predisposing factor for diarrhea. Nevertheless, external pig supplementation with Zn during lactation can mitigate this issue.

Fermentation Patterns, Methane Production and Microbial Population under In Vitro Conditions from Two Unconventional Feed Resources Incorporated in Ruminant Diets.

In this study, four experimental treatments were evaluated: (T1) alfalfa hay + concentrate, (50:50%, DM); (T2) alfalfa hay + Leucaena leucocephala + concentrate, (30:20:50%, DM); (T3) alfalfa hay + prickly pear + concentrate, (30:20:50%, DM); and (T4) alfalfa hay + Leucaena leucocephala + prickly pear + concentrate, (30:10:10:50%, DM). NH3-N concentrations in T2 and T4 decreased when replaced with alfalfa hay in 20 and 10%, respectively. Treatments did not affect the concentration of total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) between T3 and T4 (p > 0.05), while the concentrations among T1 and T2 were different (p < 0.05). T2 showed a reduction of 25.5% in the methane production when compared to T1 (p < 0.05). The lowest concentrations of protozoa were observed in T2 and T4, which contained Leucaena leucocephala (T2) and Leucaena leucocephala + prickly pear (T4) (p < 0.05). The highest concentration of total methanogens was recorded in T1 and was different in T2, T3, and T4 (p < 0.05). Leucaena leucocephala, at an inclusion percentage of 20%, decreased the methane when compared to T1, whereas prickly pear increased methane production in relation to T1.

Citrus Flavonoids Supplementation as an Alternative to Replace Zinc Oxide in Weanling Pigs' Diets Minimizing the Use of Antibiotics.

Since citrus flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it was hypothesized that these compounds would become a suitable alternative to the use of therapeutic doses of zinc oxide at weaning. A total of 252 weaned pigs ([LargeWhite × Landrace] × Pietrain) were distributed according to BW (5.7 kg ± 0.76) into 18 pens (6 pens per diet, 14 pigs/pen). Three experimental diets for the prestarter (0-14 d postweaning) and starter (15-35 d postweaning) period were prepared: (i) a nonmedicated (CON) diet, (ii) a CON diet supplemented with zinc oxide at 2500 mg/kg, amoxicillin at 0.3 mg/kg and apramycin at 0.1 mg/kg (ZnO), and (iii) CON diet with the addition of a commercial citrus flavonoid extract at 0.3 mg/kg and amoxicillin at 0.3 mg/kg (FLAV). Pig BW, ADG, ADFI, and FCR were assessed on d7, d14, and d35. Samples of intestinal tissue, cecal content, and serum were collected on day seven (18 piglets). FLAV treatment achieved greater BW and ADG during the starter and for the entire experimental period compared with the CON diet (p < 0.05), whereas ZnO pigs evidenced intermediate results. Jejunum tissue analysis showed that pigs fed the FLAV diet overexpressed genes related to barrier function, digestive enzymes, and nutrient transport compared to those pigs fed the CON diet (p < 0.05). An increase in the abundance of bacterial genera such as Succinivibrio, Turicibacter, and Mitsuokella (p < 0.05) was observed in the FLAV compared with the CON and ZnO piglets. ZnO and FLAV increased the expression of TAS2R39, while ZnO pigs also expressed greater TAS2R16 than CON (p < 0.05) in the intestine. FLAV treatment improved the gut function, possibly explaining a higher performance at the end of the nursery period. Consequently, citrus flavonoids supplementation, together with amoxicillin, is a promising alternative to the use of zinc oxide plus amoxicillin and apramycin in weanling pigs, minimizing the use of antibiotics.

Fecal Microbiota and Hair Glucocorticoid Concentration Show Associations with Growth during Early Life in a Pig Model.

Identifying characteristics associated with fast or slow growth during early life in a pig model will help in the design of nutritional strategies or recommendations during infancy. The aim of this study was to identify if a differential growth during lactation and/or the nursery period may be associated with fecal microbiota composition and fermentation capacity, as well as to leave a print of glucocorticoid biomarkers in the hair. Seventy-five commercial male and female pigs showing extreme growth in the lactation and nursery periods were selected, creating four groups (First, lactation growth, d0−d21; second, nursery growth, d21−d62): Slow_Slow, Slow_Fast, Fast_Slow, and Fast_Fast. At d63 of life, hair and fecal samples were collected. Fast-growing pigs during nursery had higher cortisone concentrations in the hair (p < 0.05) and a tendency to have a lower cortisol-to-cortisone ratio (p = 0.061). Both lactation and nursery growth conditioned the fecal microbiota structure (p < 0.05). Additionally, fast-growing pigs during nursery had higher evenness (p < 0.05). Lactation growth influenced the relative abundance of eight bacterial genera, while nursery growth affected only two bacterial genera (p < 0.05). The fecal butyrate concentration was higher with fast growth in lactation and/or nursery (p < 0.05), suggesting it has an important role in growth, while total SCFA and acetate were related to lactation growth (p < 0.05). In conclusion, piglets' growth during nursery and, especially, the lactation period was associated with changes in their microbiota composition and fermentation capacity, evidencing the critical role of early colonization on the establishment of the adult microbiota. Additionally, cortisol conversion to cortisone was increased in animals with fast growth, but further research is necessary to determine its implications.

Body weight of newborn and suckling piglets affects their intestinal gene expression.

Modern hyperprolific sows must deal with large litters (16-20 piglets) which reduce piglet birthweight with a concomitant increase in the proportion of small and intrauterine growth retarded piglets. However, larger litters do not only have a greater variation of piglet weights, but also a greater variation in colostrum and milk consumption within the litter. To further understand the impact that body weight has on piglets, the present study aimed to evaluate the degree of physiological weakness of the smallest piglets at birth and during the suckling period (20 d) compared to their middle-weight littermates through their jejunal gene expression. At birth, light piglets showed a downregulation of genes related to immune response (FAXDC2, HSPB1, PPARGC1α), antioxidant enzymes (SOD2m), digestive enzymes (ANPEP, IDO1, SI), and nutrient transporter (SLC39A4) (P < 0.05) but also a tendency for a higher mRNA expression of GBP1 (inflammatory regulator) and HSD11ß1 (stress hormone) genes compared to their heavier littermates (P < 0.10). Excluding HSD11ß1 gene, all these intestinal gene expression differences initially observed at birth between light and middle-weight piglets were stabilized at the end of the suckling period, when others appeared. Genes involved in barrier function (CLDN1), pro-inflammatory response (CXCL2, IL6, IDO1), and stress hormone signaling (HSD11ß1) over-expressed compared to their middle-weight littermates (P < 0.05). In conclusion, at birth and at the end of suckling period, light body weight piglets seem to have a compromised gene expression and therefore impaired nutrient absorption, immune and stress responses compared to their heavier littermates.

Under hyperprolific situations, piglets must deal with a reduced birthweight and a severe sibling competition for nutrients. Therefore, light body weight newborn and suckling piglets may also have physiological disadvantages compared to their middle-weight littermates. To further understand the impact that body weight has on piglets, the present study aimed to evaluate the degree of physiological weakness of the smallest piglets at birth and during the suckling period (20 d) compared to their middle-weight littermates through their jejunal gene expression. Newborn light piglets downregulated genes related to immunity, antioxidant, and digestive activities, but also a tendency to upregulate other genes related to inflammation and stress responses. At the end of the suckling period, those genes expression differences vanished while others appear. Light weight piglets showed lower expression of genes involved in barrier function, inflammation, and stress responses compared to their middle-weight littermates. At birth and at the end of lactation, light piglets seem to have a compromised intestinal gene expression for nutrient absorption, immune and stress responses compared to their heavier littermates.

Strategies of inorganic and organic trace mineral supplementation in gestating hyperprolific sow diets: effects on the offspring performance and fetal programming.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of trace mineral nutrition on sow performance, mineral content, and intestinal gene expression of neonate piglets when inorganic mineral sources (ITM) were partially replaced by their organic mineral (OTM) counterparts. At 35 d postmating, under commercial conditions, a total of 240 hyperprolific multiparous sows were allocated into three experimental diets: 1) ITM: with Zn, Cu, and Mn at 80, 15, and 60 mg/kg, respectively; 2) partial replacement trace mineral source (Replace): with a 30 % replacement of ITM by OTM, resulting in ITM + OTM supplementation of Zn (56 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (10.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (42 + 18 mg/kg); and 3) Reduce and replace mineral source (R&R): reducing a 50% of the ITM source of Zn (40 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (7.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (30 + 18 mg/kg). At farrowing, 40 piglets were selected, based on birth weight (light: <800 g, and average: >1,200 g), for sampling. Since the present study aimed to reflect results under commercial conditions, it was difficult to get an equal parity number between the experimental diets. Overall, no differences between experimental diets on sow reproductive performance were observed. Light piglets had a lower mineral content (P < 0.05) and a downregulation of several genes (P < 0.10) involved in physiological functions compared with their average littermates. Neonate piglets born from Replace sows had an upregulation of genes involved in functions like immunity and gut barrier, compared with those born from ITM sows (P < 0.10), particularly in light piglets. In conclusion, the partial replacement of ITM by their OTM counterparts represents an alternative to the totally inorganic supplementation with improvements on neonate piglet gene expression, particularly in the smallest piglets of the litter. The lower trace mineral storage together with the greater downregulation of gut health genes exposed the immaturity and vulnerability of small piglets.

Effects of two zinc supplementation levels and two zinc and copper sources with different solubility characteristics on the growth performance, carcass characteristics and digestibility of growing-finishing pigs.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of two Zn supplemented levels and two Zn and Cu sources (sulphate and hydroxychloride) on growing-finishing pigs. An in vitro study and an in vivo study were conducted. In the in vitro study, Zn solubility from each source at different Zn supplementation levels was evaluated, as well as the phytic phosphorus (PP) solubility derived from the interaction or not with phytic acid at similar conditions to those found in digestive tract. The most critical interaction of Zn with phytic acid was at pH 6.5 and with Zn sulphate, resulting in the reduction in PP solubility. In the in vivo experiment, a total of 444 pigs ([Duroc × Landrace]×Pietrain; initial BW: 18.7 ± 0.20 kg) were allotted to 36 pens in a randomized complete block design (2 × 2) factorial arrangement with two Zn and Cu sources and two Zn supplemental levels (20 and 80 mg/kg). The Cu supplementation was fixed at 15 mg/kg for all diets. There was no effect of the interaction between mineral source × Zn level or Zn level on growth performance or carcass characteristics (p > .10). Apparent total digestibility of Zn and Cu along with carcass yield was higher for pigs fed hydroxychloride than pigs fed the sulphate counterparts (p < .05). Feeding low levels of Zn decreased Zn (45.5%; p < .0001) and Cu(18.5%; p = .018) faecal excretion. In conclusion, under commercial conditions, feeding growing-finishing pigs with Zn levels below those established by the European Union regulation did not affect growth performance and carcass characteristics. Reducing dietary mineral (Zn and Cu) diet content resulted in a lower faecal mineral excretion. Pigs fed sulphate minerals had an improved performance during grower period, while pigs fed hydroxychloride minerals showed an improved performance during finishing period and a greater carcass yield and mineral digestibility than those fed sulphates.

Influence of Particle Size and Xylanase in Corn-Soybean Pelleted Diets on Performance, Nutrient Utilization, Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acid Production in Young Broilers.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of particle size and xylanase supplementation in corn-based pellet diets on the performance and digestive traits in young broilers. A total of 512 male Ross 308 broilers were used in a 21-day study. The treatments were designed in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement with four levels of geometric mean diameter (Dgw) of corn (540, 660, 1390, and 1700 µm), and two levels of xylanase (0 or 16,000 BXU/kg diet). Feeding coarse corn diets (1390 and 1700 µm Dgw) and xylanase supplementation showed an inferior coefficient of variation of body weight. Higher gizzard weight, microbiome alpha-diversity, and clustered separately beta-diversity (p < 0.05) were observed in birds fed coarse diets. The addition of xylanase promoted changes in relative bacteria abundance, increasing Lachnospiraceae, Defluviitaleaceae, Bacteroidaceae, Bacillaceae, Eggerthellaceae, and Streptococcaceae families in the 1700 µm group, and Christensenellaceae and Lachnospiraceae families in the 540 µm Dgw group. In conclusion, xylanase supplementation and particle size of corn interact in the intestinal environment, showing changes in microbial composition. Coarse diets and xylanase supplementation showed improved body weight homogeneity, which might be related to a better gut development and microbiota modulation.

Dietary Preference of Newly Weaned Pigs and Nutrient Interactions According to Copper Levels and Sources with Different Solubility Characteristics.

Two feeding preference experiments and an in vitro assay were performed to assess the weaned pig preference for Cu doses and sources based on their sensorial perception and on the likely post-ingestive effects of Cu. At day 7 post-weaning, a total of 828 pigs were distributed into two different experiments. In Exp.1 (dose preference) a diet with a nutritional Cu level (15 mg/kg) of Cu sulfate (SF) was pair offered with higher Cu levels (150 mg/kg) of either SF or hydroxychloride (HCl). In Exp.2 (source preference), a diet supplemented with Cu-SF at 150 mg/kg was compared to a Cu-HCl (150 mg/kg) diet. At the short-term (day 7-9) and for the entire experimental week (day 7-14), pigs preferred diets with a high Cu level than with Cu at a nutritional dose (p < 0.05). Likewise, pigs preferred diets supplemented with a Cu-HCl source compared to diets with Cu-SF (p < 0.05). In vitro assay results showed a greater solubility and interaction of Cu-SF with phytic acid compared to Cu-HCl. In conclusion, pigs chose diets with higher levels of Cu probably to re-establish homeostasis after weaning. Pigs preferred diets with Cu-HCl compared to Cu-SF probably due to their solubilities and chemical differences.

The Use of Computer Records: A Tool to Increase Productivity in Dairy Herds.

The level of adoption of herd management information system veterinary automated management and production control program (VAMPP) Bovine and its impact on productivity of 912 specialized dairy systems with at least 5 years of information recorded was studied. Herds were classified as low (n = 389), medium (n = 343), or high (n = 180) adoption level on the basis of extent and consistency of record keeping for variables related to production, reproduction, and health. For each herd, within-year averages were obtained for six performance traits: age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), daily milk yield (DMY), productive life (PL), incidence of clinical mastitis (MAST), and incidence of lameness (LAM). These variables were investigated with a generalized linear mixed model that included the fixed effects of the adoption level, follow-up year, and their interaction, adjusted by the fixed effects of herd size, agroecological zone, calendar period, breed group, and the random effects of variation between/within herds. A significant effect of the adoption level over all the variables was observed, except DMY and PL. The follow-up year was significant for all the variables except LAM. There were marked reductions for AFC and DO in the first 4 years of follow-up. AFC was higher and DO shorter in the low compared to medium and high level of adoption herds (p < 0.001). DMY showed a significant increasing trend (p < 0.001), regardless of the adoption level. There was higher MAST and LAM incidence in the higher adoption level (p < 0.05). The economic benefit was estimated through a stochastic simulation model using an approach based in partial budget analysis. For a herd with a medium level of adoption, the change in gross margin (GMMIS $USD) and marginal return rate (MRRMIS %) for the first 5 years of use of the system was estimated. Under these conditions, there was a GMMIS of $6890 and MRRMIS of 163%. Variation of ±10% in DMY and DO caused changes in the GMMIS of ±$1000 and ±$110, respectively, and in MRRMIS ±24% and ±4%, respectively. The trends suggest a positive influence of VAMPP in productive and reproductive traits during the first years of implementation, with less benefit for the low adoption levels.

Effects of copper and zinc sources and inclusion levels of copper on weanling pig performance and intestinal microbiota.

A 42-d experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Cu and Zn source and Cu level on pig performance, mineral status, bacterial modulation, and the presence of antimicrobial-resistant genes in isolates of Enterococcus spp. At weaning, 528 pigs (5.9 ± 0.50 kg) were allotted to 48 pens of a randomized complete block design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two Cu and Zn sources (SF: sulfate and HCl: hydroxychloride) and two Cu levels (15 and 160 mg/kg). As a challenge, the pigs were reared in dirty pens used by a previous commercial batch. Two-phase diets were offered: the pre-starter (PS) phase from day 1 to 14 and the starter phase (ST) from day 14 to 42. At days 14 and 42, pigs were individually weighed and blood samples from one pig per pen were taken. At the end of the experiment, one pig per pen was euthanized to collect the samples. Feeding high levels of Cu increased body weight (BW) from 16.6 to 17.7 kg (P < 0.001). Furthermore, average daily gain, gain to feed (G:F) ratio, average daily feed intake (ADFI), and mineral status were enhanced with Cu at 160 mg/kg (P < 0.05) compared with Cu at 15 mg/kg. There was no effect of the interaction between source × level on any of the growth performance responses except for ADFI (P = 0.004) and G:F (P = 0.029) at the end of the ST period and for G:F (P = 0.006) for entire nursery period (day 0 to 42). At the end of the ST period, pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl had not only higher ADFI but also lower G:F than those fed Cu as SF at 160 mg/kg. Meanwhile, for the entire nursery period, G:F did not differ between pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl or SF. In colonic digesta, the relative abundance of Streptococcus, Enterobacter, Escherichia, among others, decreased (P-adjust < 0.05), while Lachnospira and Roseburia tended (P-adjust < 0.10) to increase in pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg as HCl compared with those fed Cu SF at 160 mg/kg. An increase (P-adjust < 0.05) in Methanosphaera and Roseburia was observed in pigs fed Cu at 160 mg/kg. From colon digesta, Enterococcus spp. was isolated in 40 samples, being E. faecalis the most dominating (65%) regardless of the experimental diet. Genes of ermB (7.5%) and tetM (5%) were identified. No genes for Cu (tcrB) or vancomycin (vanA, vanB, vanC1, and vanC2) were detected. In conclusion, European Union permissible levels of Cu (160 mg/kg), of both sources, were able to increase performance, mineral status, and bacterial modulation compared with nutritional level. Different effects on growth performance, mineral tissue content, and microbial modulation were observed between Cu and Zn sources.

Evaluation of the INCREMENT-CPE, Pitt Bacteremia and qPitt Scores in Patients with Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Infections Treated with Ceftazidime-Avibactam.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive performance of the INCREMENT-CPE (ICS), Pitt bacteremia score (PBS) and qPitt for mortality among patients treated with ceftazidime-avibactam for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections. METHODS: Retrospective, multicenter, cohort study of patients with CRE infections treated with ceftazidime-avibactam between 2015 and 2019. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Predictive performance was determined by assessing discrimination, calibration and precision. RESULTS: In total, 109 patients were included. Thirty-day mortality occurred in 18 (16.5%) patients. There were no significant differences in discrimination of the three scores [area under the curve (AUC) ICS 0.7039, 95% CI 0.5848-0.8230, PBS 0.6893, 95% CI 0.5709-0.8076, and qPitt 0.6847, 95% CI 0.5671-0.8023; P > 0.05 all pairwise comparisons]. All scores showed adequate calibration and precision. When dichotomized at the optimal cut-points of 11, 3, and 2 for the ICS, PBS, and qPitt, respectively, all scores had NPV > 90% at the expense of low PPV. Patients in the high-risk groups had a relative risk for mortality of 3.184 (95% CI 1.35-8.930), 3.068 (95% CI 1.094-8.606), and 2.850 (95% CI 1.016-7.994) for the dichotomized ICS, PBS, and qPitt, scores respectively. Treatment-related variables (early active antibiotic therapy, combination antibiotics and renal ceftazidime-avibactam dose adjustment) were not associated with mortality after controlling for the risk scores. CONCLUSIONS: In patients treated with ceftazidime-avibactam for CRE infections, mortality risk scores demonstrated variable performance. Modifications to scoring systems to more accurately predict outcomes in the era of novel antibiotics are warranted.

Milk intake and IGF-1 rs6214 polymorphism as protective factors to obesity.

Mexico ranks 2nd in adult obesity and 4th in milk intake worldwide. Low levels of IGF-1 have been related to obesity and can be reverted by milk intake. The rs6214 polymorphism has been associated with an increase in the expression of IGF-1. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the association between both, rs6214 polymorphism and milk intake, and obesity. We analysed 99 adult volunteers, with and without a history of milk intake, for the presence of this polymorphism through qPCR and body composition by electro-bioimpedance. Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that TT genotype is inversely associated with obesity and body fat mass. Besides, milk intake is also related to low obesity, body fat mass and visceral fat, and high percentage of lean mass. Multivariate logistic regression analyses confirm the univariate relationships, showing a clear inverted association between TT genotype, milk intake and obesity.

Detection of Clostridium difficile in the environment in a veterinary teaching hospital.

The present study focused on detecting the presence of Clostridium difficile on veterinary hospital surfaces of large and small animal areas at the Universidad Complutense of Madrid. Isolated C. difficile strains were further characterized and investigated for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Of n = 23 sampling area, 17% were positive for the presence of C. difficile. The isolates belonged to PCR ribotypes 078, 014, 039, and 154, of which RT 078 and 014 are also frequently found as human pathogens. Two isolates had high level resistance to metronidazole. These results suggest that the veterinary hospital environment constitutes a potential reservoir of zoonotical transferable C. difficile.

Real-World Experience With Ceftazidime-Avibactam for Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections.

BACKGROUND: We conducted this study to describe the clinical characteristics, microbiology, and outcomes of patients treated with ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) for a range of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative (MDR-GN) infections. METHODS: This is a multicenter, retrospective cohort study conducted at 6 medical centers in the United States between 2015 and 2019. Adult patients who received CZA (≥72 hours) were eligible. The primary outcome was clinical failure defined as a composite of 30-day all-cause mortality, 30-day microbiological failure, and/or failure to resolve or improve signs or symptoms of infection on CZA. RESULTS: In total, data from 203 patients were evaluated. Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and Pseudomonas spp were isolated from 117 (57.6%) and 63 (31.0%) culture specimens, respectively. The most common infection sources were respiratory (37.4%), urinary (19.7%), and intra-abdominal (18.7%). Blood cultures were positive in 22 (10.8%) patients. Clinical failure, 30-day mortality, and 30-day recurrence occurred in 59 (29.1%), 35 (17.2%), and 12 (5.9%) patients, respectively. On therapy, CZA resistance developed in 1 of 62 patients with repeat testing. Primary bacteremia or respiratory tract infection and higher SOFA score were positively associated with clinical failure (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.270, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.115-4.620 and aOR = 1.234, 95% CI = 1.118-1.362, respectively). Receipt of CZA within 48 hours of infection onset was protective (aOR, 0.409; 95% CI, 0.180-0.930). Seventeen (8.4%) patients experienced a potential drug-related adverse effect (10 acute kidney injury, 3 Clostridioides difficile infection, 2 rash, and 1 each gastrointestinal intolerance and neutropenia). CONCLUSIONS: Ceftazidime-avibactam is being used to treat a range of MDR-GN infections including Pseudomonas spp as well as CRE.

Variations in the Temperature-Humidity Index and Dorsal Fat Thickness during the Last Trimester of Gestation and Early Postpartum Period Affect Fertility of Bos indicus Cows in the Tropics.

In order to measure the influence of the temperature-humidity index (THI) and the variation of fat thickness on reproductive performance, ninety-two Bos indicus cows kept under grazing conditions were used in two farms in Veracruz (Mexico) and Puntarenas (Costa Rica). THI was calculated with the average environmental temperature and relative humidity. Measurements of fat thickness (FAT) were taken two weeks apart from the last trimester of gestation to approximately 80 days postpartum (dpp). Natural breeding was used in both farms. Time to conception was calculated based on the interval from days at risk to conception (DRC), which had to be at least 28 dpp. THI was between 65.4 ± 2.9 and 73.2 ± 1.5 in Veracruz and 75.4 ± 0.26 and 76.5 ± 0.55 in Puntarenas. Variations in THI were observed in Puntarenas whereas in Veracruz THI variations were more prominent. In Veracruz, loss of fat during the last trimester of gestation was on average 8.5%, whereas in the postpartum period it was 18.4% (P = 0.042). In Puntarenas, the variation in the last trimester of gestation was on average 18.7% and in the postpartum period was 10.5% (P = 0.012). The relative change in FAT in Veracruz was 36.7%, and in Puntarenas it was 29.3%. Overall, 60% of the cows became pregnant. FAT decreased the interval of DRC (R2=0.06; P=0.033) with a high relationship (R2=0.76; P< 0.0001) between THI and time to conception, in both farms. In conclusion, THI levels influence the reproductive performance in early postpartum period affecting DRC.

Validation of a Mexican food photograph album as a tool to visually estimate food amounts in adolescents.

The aim of the present study was to validate a food photograph album (FPA) as a tool to visually estimate food amounts, and to compare this estimation with that attained through the use of measuring cups (MC) and food models (FM). We tested 163 foods over fifteen sessions (thirty subjects/session; 10-12 foods presented in two portion sizes, 20-24 plates/session). In each session, subjects estimated food amounts with the assistance of FPA, MC and FM. We compared (by portion and method) the mean estimated weight and the mean real weight. We also compared the percentage error estimation for each portion, and the mean food percentage error estimation between methods. In addition, we determined the percentage error estimation of each method. We included 463 adolescents from three public high schools (mean age 17·1 (sd 1·2) years, 61·8 % females). All foods were assessed using FPA, 53·4 % of foods were assessed using MC, and FM was used for 18·4 % of foods. The mean estimated weight with all methods was statistically different compared with the mean real weight for almost all foods. However, a lower percentage error estimation was observed using FPA (2·3 v. 56·9 % for MC and 325 % for FM, P< 0·001). Also, when analysing error rate ranges between methods, there were more observations (P< 0·001) with estimation errors higher than 40 % with the MC (56·1 %), than with the FPA (27·5 %) and FM (44·9 %). In conclusion, although differences between estimated and real weight were statistically significant for almost all foods, comparisons between methods showed FPA to be the most accurate tool for estimating food amounts.

Effect of protein supplementation on reproductive and productive performance in Bos indicus x Bos taurus heifers raised in the humid tropics of Costa Rica.

In order to evaluate the effect of protein supplementation on the productive and reproductive performance of heifers, 45 Bos indicus x Bos taurus heifers, 673 +/- 146 days of age and weighing about 340 kg, were divided into two groups. The control group (n = 23) continued without supplementation, but the supplemented group (SG; n = 22) received concentrate at a rate of 1% BW kg per day. Animals were adapted to the concentrate over a 15-day period and then supplemented for 30 days, after which estrus was synchronized using a progesterone implant. Back fat thickness (BFT) was assessed by ultrasound. The SG had better average daily weight gain than the nonsupplemented group (0.63 +/- 0.16 vs. 0.51 +/- 0.13 kg/day, P < 0.05) and tended to show a better percentage ovulation (P < 0.10, 77% vs. 57%, respectively). However, this tendency was not reflected in the final pregnancy rates. No differences were observed between groups in dry matter intake and body condition scores. SG with a high BFT (>0.70 cm) showed a better ovulation percentage than those with low BFT (<0.69 cm; P < 0.01). Additionally, the pregnancy rate of supplemented heifers with high BFT tended to be better than heifers with low BFT in this same group (67% vs. 30%, respectively, P < 0.10). It is concluded that protein supplementation improved reproductive performance and that ultrasonography to measure BFT may be used to estimate reproductive performance.