bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSI-6 Genetic Parameters for Food Allergy Responses in Divergently-selected Pig Lines
Authors: Chen Yuwen , de Oliveira Hinayah Rojas , Alvarenga Amanda B , Schinckel Allan P , Stewart Terry S , Brito Luiz F
Published: May 2021

Genetic selection for health and welfare-related traits is paramount in livestock breeding. Piglet allergic responses to soybean protein negatively impact animal growth and welfare. The objectives of this study were to estimate the heritability of soybean allergic responses and genetic correlations between soybean and peanut allergies (r1,2) in divergently-selected pig lines. The base population consisted of nine sire lines (primarily Yorkshire and Landrace) and two dam sources (Yorkshire × Chester White-F1 and Landrace × Yorkshire-F1). Soybean and peanut-allergic responses were measured through a skin test (0–6 scale; 0-no allergic responses; 6-severe allergic responses; characterized by wheal and flair) on pigs fed a diet containing soybean meal for 21 d post-weaning. A total of 5,505 animals from nine generations of two contrasting lines (i.e., high and low skin test reaction) were included in the analyses. The statistical model included contemporary group, breeding lines, replication, sex, and weaning weight (linear covariate) as fixed effects (P-value < 0.05), and additive genetic, maternal genetic, and maternal permanent environment as random effects. Threshold and linear Bayesian models were used to estimate genetic parameters, using a pedigree-based relationship matrix containing 9,201 animals. The heritability estimates for the general soybean allergic response were 0.199 ± 0.045 and 0.119 ± 0.025 for the threshold (liability scale) and linear models, respectively, suggesting that soybean allergic responses are heritable and can be improved through selective breeding. A weak negative genetic correlation between allergic responses and birth weight was observed (r1,2 = -0.253 ± 0.192), which shows that the genetic variance of soybean allergy is less dependent on birth weight. However, a high positive genetic correlation was estimated between soybean and peanut-allergic responses (r1,2 = 0.89 ± 0.048), which indicates a potential cross-reactivity of soybean and peanut allergies. Our findings suggest that it is possible to reduce food allergy responses in pigs through selective breeding.
PSI-3 Effects of Mowing on Forage Availability and Quality During the Summer
Authors: Johnson Michelle , Jurak Meghan , Neira Lucas T , McCann Joshua C , Shike Daniel W
Published: May 2021

The objective was to determine how mowing date affected forage availability and quality. Cool season grass plots were randomly assigned to 4 treatments (n=2): mowed on day 1 (M1), mowed on day 15 (M15), mowed on day 29 (M29), and not mowed (NM). During the 56-day experiment, forage heights were measured using a rising plate meter to determine forage availability and samples were clipped for proximate analysis. The MIXED procedure of SAS was used to analyze data. On day 14, CP in M1 was 37.5% greater (P = 0.05) than the composite of M15, M29, and NM. However, the composite of M15, M29, and NM had greater (P = 0.02) forage availability than M1 on day 14. On day 28, M15 had greater (P = 0.02) ADF than M1, while the composite of M29 and NM was intermediate and not different than other treatments. There was also a treatment effect (P < 0.01) on forage availability on day 28; the composite of M29 and NM was greatest followed by M1 and M15, respectively. On day 42, the NDF of M29 was greater (P = 0.01) than M1, M15, and NM. Decreased CP was observed (P = 0.05) for NM compared with M1, M15, and M29 on day 42. Forage availability was different (P < 0.01) for all treatments on day 42 with NM being the greatest followed by M1, M15, M29, respectively. On day 56, NM tended (P = 0.08) to have the greatest DM, but there was no difference (P ≥ 0.31) in NDF, ADF, and CP. Forage availability was different (P < 0.01) for all treatments on day 56 with NM being the greatest followed by M1, M15, M29, respectively. In conclusion, mowing reduced forage availability as expected, but it also increased CP on day 14 and 42.
PSI-5 Effects of Bacillus and Lactobacillus in Milk Replacer on Calf Health
Authors: McAtee Kenzie , Quantz Steven T , Rehberger Tom , Habib Kellen , Smith Kristen , Boomer W , Tarpoff Anthony J , Bradford Barry J , Gragg Sara E , Jones Cassandra K
Published: May 2021

Stress in pre-ruminant calves can impact the functionality of the gastric epithelial lining, thereby impacting calf health during times of stress and potentially later in life. To mitigate this challenge, milk replacers frequently contain antibiotics to reduce the proliferation of harmful bacteria that may result in disease in pre-ruminant, milk supplemented calves. However, there is consumer and regulatory pressure to reduce the reliance on these antimicrobials and evaluate alternatives, such as probiotics, that may shift gut bacterial populations without impacting potential antimicrobial resistance. The objective of this study was to determine if supplementing calves with Lactobacillus and Bacillus species in milk replacer impacts pre-ruminant calf health. The project included 44 calves (50% Angus/50% Holstein) in a randomized complete block design, with calf serving as the experimental unit and age serving as a blocking factor. Calves were fed twice daily one of two treatments: 1) milk replacer with Lactobacillus and two Bacillus species at a total rate of 1.25 x 10^9 cfu/head/day; or 2) non-treated milk replacer. There were 22 replicates per treatment. To determine health status, calves were scored daily based on health indicators for fecal consistency or eye, nose, or ear normality. Health scores were ranked from 0 to 3, with 0 representing normal and 3 signaling severe symptoms, such as bilateral eye or nasal discharge, ear droop, or watery feces. Statistical analysis was performed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Overall, there was no evidence (P > 0.05) that Lactobacillus and Bacillus inclusion impacted any measured health parameter. Notably, approximately 50% of calves had fecal scores indicating some level of watery stool, but this was not impacted (P > 0.05) by probiotics. In summary, the inclusion of probiotics in calf milk replacer did not appear to impact calf health in the first 30 days.
PSIV18 Effects of Added Zn Level on Growth Performance and Hemoglobin of Nursery Pigs
Authors: Cemin Henrique S , Swalla Luke A , Pietig Jamie L , Hansen Sharlie A , Hansen Ernie L
Published: May 2021

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of added Zn level on growth performance and hemoglobin of nursery pigs. A total of 673 pigs (initial BW = 6.0 kg) were used in a 45-d trial. There were 3 treatments based on added Zn level: 100, 2,000, or 3,000 mg/kg from Zn oxide. Experimental diets were fed for 21 d. After that, pigs were fed a common corn and soybean meal-based diet with 100 mg/kg added Zn for 24 d. There were 8 replicates per treatment. Pigs were weighed approximately every 10 d to evaluate growth performance, and blood samples were collected for hemoglobin analysis. Data was analyzed with SAS MIXED procedure. From d 0 to 10, there was a linear improvement (P < 0.05) in ADG, ADFI, and G:F with increasing Zn level. From d 10 to 21, increasing Zn level resulted in higher ADFI (linear, P = 0.009). However, there was no difference (P > 0.10) in ADG and G:F. From d 0 to 21, pigs fed increasing added Zn had improved (linear, P < 0.05) ADG and ADFI. From d 21 to 45, pigs previously fed high levels of added Zn had higher ADFI (linear, P = 0.023), but there was no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) for ADG and G:F. Overall (d 0 to 45), pigs fed increasing added Zn levels had improved (linear, P < 0.05) ADG, ADFI, and final BW. A quadratic response (P < 0.05) was observed for hemoglobin on d 10 and 45, with no differences (P > 0.10) observed on d 21. In summary, pigs fed high levels of added Zn presented improved growth performance. Although the response was linear in nature, the differences between pigs fed 2,000 or 3,000 mg/kg Zn were minimal for the response variables evaluated.
The Potential Use of DNA Methylation Patterns from Peripheral Blood Leukocytes as a Surrogate for Stress Axis Tissues in Mature Brahman Cows
Authors: Baker Emilie C , Earnhardt Audrey L , Cilkiz Kubra Z , Littlejohn Brittni P , Collins Haley C , Ghaffari Noushin , Riggs Penny K , Long Charles R , Welsh Thomas H , Randel Ron D , Riley David G
Published: May 2021

DNA methylation (DNAm) patterns are tissue specific and aid in tissue specific gene expression changes. The use of DNAm patterns from peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) as a surrogate for patterns in other tissues is common, especially in longitudinal studies when sampling of tissues is not plausible. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of using DNAm patterns of PBL as a surrogate for the DNAm patterns in neuroendocrine tissues responsible for stress responses and energy metabolism. Samples from the paraventricular region of the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, adrenal cortex, and the adrenal medulla were harvested from 5-yr-old Brahman cows (n = 8) and DNA was extracted from each sample. Methylation was assessed using reduced representation sodium bisulfite sequencing and differentially methylated regions (DMR) between the PBL DNA and tissue DNA were identified using EdgeR from Bioconductor, R. Analysis revealed over 15,000 DMRs located within promoter regions of genes in each tissue, with the majority of the sites having increased methylation in the PBL (Table 1). To further evaluate the use of PBL DNA as a surrogate, Pearson correlation values were calculated for genes (n = 20) pertinent to each respective tissue using the mean methylation of the specific gene in the PBL and in the tissue (Table 2). Three correlations were significant (P ≤ 0.05), two of which were negative. The sizable differences indicate that DNA methylation patterns from PBL do not compare well to patterns from hypothalamic, pituitary, adrenal cortex, and adrenal medulla tissues from 5-yr-old Brahman cows. This is especially the case for the majority of the specific genes examined in this study. Whether DNAm in the surrogate PBL will shift in a direction similar to that of specific tissues of Brahman cows exposed to stressful stimuli during developmental periods remains to be determined.
Impact of Sow Transition Diet and Genetic Line on Sow Reproduction Under Heat Stress Conditions
Authors: Gilleland Carson , Peppmeier Zack , Knauer Mark
Published: May 2021

The objective was to evaluate a sow transition diet and genetic line for farrowing duration and sow lactation characteristics. One batch of second parity sows (n = 78) were farrowed at the NCDA Tidewater Research Station in July. Sows consisted of two genetic lines, one selected since 2012 for young age at puberty and the other selected for old age at puberty. From day 109 of gestation until day 3 of lactation, sows were fed either 2.73 kg of a corn-soy lactation diet (3322 Kcal ME/kg, 0.99% SID lysine) once per day or 1.36 kg twice per day of a transition diet (3489 Kcal/kg, 0.71 SID lysine). The transition diet contained 45% wheat middlings, 8% added soybean oil, 3000 FTU/kg of phytase and 500 ppm zinc sulfate. Continuous traits and categorical traits were analyzed in SAS using linear models and chi-square tests, respectively. Results showed sows fed the transition diet farrowed numerically faster (P = 0.18) than those receiving the lactation diet (3:04 vs. 3:47). Transition diet fed sows tended (P = 0.10) to have a shorter wean-to-estrus interval than sows fed the lactation diet (5.27 vs. 5.69 days). Sows from the young puberty genetic line tended (P = 0.07) to have a greater average daily feed intake during lactation when compared to old puberty line females (4.92 vs. 4.71 kg). Young puberty sows also had a greater (P = 0.03) percentage of females exhibiting estrus by day 7 after weaning when compared to the old puberty genetic line (80 vs. 57%). No differences (P = 0.39 to 0.87) were detected between diets or genetic lines for stillborn piglet percentage, average piglet birth weight, average piglet weaning weight or litter size at weaning. Results suggest young puberty sows are more likely to return to estrus under the conditions of this study.
Incorporation of a Statewide Webinar Series into an Existing County-based Beef Cattle Extension Program
Authors: Carter Courtnie L , Rhinehart Justin D
Published: May 2021

With the objective of continuing educational delivery while county Extension offices were unable to host large group meeting due to pandemic response regulations, a series of webinars were developed as a component of the Tennessee Master Beef Producer program. A secondary objective was to maintain a county-based approach to programmatic delivery. To reach these objectives, individual webinars (Zoom Video Communications, San Jose, CA; n = 9), each lasting approximately 1.5 hr were developed by UT Extension Specialists and offered between October and November of 2020 covering the topics of breeding and genetics, reproductive management, nutrition, animal handling, economics, health management, and forages. Questions were administered during the live session via the Zoom polling function to assess production statistics and collect evaluation data. The series was advertised in local communities through UT Extension County Agents. Agents were given the opportunity to choose as many or as few to incorporate into their local delivery and could choose to give producers the option of viewing at home, at socially distanced group meetings, or either. Interaction was limited to the chat function within Zoom with the expectation that attendees would make audio and video interaction difficult to manage. Total live participation was 8,009 and averaged 890 ± 15.3 unique views per session. Each webinar was recorded and posted to YouTube to be used by agents for later delivery. In-webinar polling showed that an average of 91% of the webinar participants planned to implement a change on their operation as a direct result of information provided in the presentation. Post-webinar Likert scale (1 to 5) analysis of participants indicated approval of speaker ability (4.52 ± 0.03) and content quality (4.51 ± 0.03). These results indicate a high adoption rate by agents and that webinars are an effective tool for achieving behavioral change through a county-based Extension system.
2016–2020 Alabama Pasture to Rail Program and Data: An Educational Retained Ownership Program for Alabama Cattle Producers
Authors: Tigue Daniel A , Rodning Soren P , Vining Paul , McWilliams Danny , Mullenix Kim K
Published: May 2021

The Alabama Pasture to Rail Program gives cattle producers across the state an opportunity to retain ownership of a portion of their calf crop and receive feedlot performance, health and carcass data. From October 2016 through December 2020, 3,200 calves from 98 Alabama farms and 1 farm in southern Tennessee were commingled at central shipping locations and transported to Hy-Plains Feedyard in Montezuma, KS to be fed until harvest. Of these, 2,188 were harvested and data collected at the time this abstract was written. Overall, these calves averaged 1.55 ± 0.38 kg/d ADG, 94.45 ± 11.70 cm2 Ribeye Area (REA), 1.51 ± 0.51 cm Backfat Thickness (BF), 385.32 ± 45.21 kg Hot Carcass Weight (HCW), and a 473.84 ± 98.17 Marbling Score (MS), with 76.10% grading Choice or Higher and 90.07% Yield Grade 3 or Lower. From a cattle heath perspective, 11.88% of the cattle were treated at some point during the feeding period, with 2.65% of calves dying or being sold as chronically sick calves prior to harvest of their respective groups. Compared to the estimated value of the calves prior to shipping to the feedyard, calves generated an average of $77.17/hd additional profit for consignors for a total of $168,855.69 profit. At the conclusion of the program, each producer received a summary of the performance of the calves on the truckload which their calves shipped, the individual data for all of their calves, payment for the calves based on a grid pricing system, and an individual analysis of the performance of their calves and how they might improve them in the future. Additionally, producers were asked to complete a survey on their satisfaction with the program and how they intend to use the data in the future. On a scale from 1 to 6 (6 being extremely satisfied), producers were asked to rank their satisfaction with the overall program (5.56), shipping protocols (5.67), data and summaries (5.78), and performance of their cattle (4.89).
Knowledge Transfer in Online Meat and Dairy Goat Certification Programs in English and Spanish
Authors: Gipson Terry A , Merkel Roger C , Rodriguez Abner , Fernandez John
Published: May 2021

In 2020, on-line courses in Spanish (SP) for dairy (D) and meat (M) goat producers were unveiled (http://certification.goats.langston.edu). These courses complemented the existing courses in English (EN) for D and M. Thirty-one undergraduate and one graduate animal science students at the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), Mayagüez enrolled in the SP courses for beta-testing. Nineteen students completed D-SP, 9 completed M-SP, and 4 completed both. Participants take a pre-test (PRE) and if the PRE score < 85%, a post-test (POST) is required. To complete D, passing scores are required on 18 required modules and 7 of 10 electives. To complete M, passing scores are required on 21 required modules and 9 of 12 electives. A random sample of previous participants (23 D-EN and 13 M-EN) in the same time length (86 ± 18.2 d) was added to the UPR dataset. The objective of this study is to evaluate the difference (DIFF) between PRE and POST scores as a measure of knowledge transfer. Mixed model analysis was conducted with the dependent variable of DIFF, the independent variables of course (D or M), language (EN or SP), the two-way interaction, and participant as the random effect. There were significant course (P > 0.01) and language (P > 0.05) effects on DIFF. M had lower DIFF than D (29.0% vs 34.1%) and EN had lower DIFF than SP (29.2% vs 34.0%). When required module within course (18 for D and 21 for M) was added to the model to examine specific module differences, there was a significant course(module)*language interaction (P > 0.01) with values ranging from 15.6% for Preventive Herd Health in EN M to 45.1% for Milking Systems in SP D. Participant background and language may play a role in knowledge transfer for online courses; however, a larger sample would be needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Targeted Extension Programming for New and Beginning Beef Cattle Producers Through a Multi-night Lecture Series
Authors: Mullenix Kim K , Jacobs Luke L , Marks Landon , Thompson Gerry , Vining Paul , Elmore Josh , Tigue Alex , Hudson Rickey , Stanford Kent , Miller Danny , McWilliams Danny , Kelley Ken
Published: May 2021

An introductory level-based educational program was developed for stakeholders interested in learning more about the basics of beef cattle management systems in Alabama. The Beef Systems Short Course was designed to 1) introduce concepts related to best management practices in beef operations to producers and 2) to create awareness among producers about educational services offered through Alabama Extension. Ten Beef Systems Short Courses were offered in fall 2019 and winter 2020 throughout Alabama. There were 136 participants enrolled in the program statewide. Eight topics were taught over a four-night time period (2 topics per meeting; 45 mins each). Topics included: Forages; Nutrition; Herd Health; Reproduction; Animal Identification, Genetics, and Records; Environmental Stewardship; Economics; Meat Science. A post-program survey was conducted to evaluate 1) potential change in knowledge and intent to adopt beef cattle management practices (n = 130 responses). Seventy percent of the producers in the program had less than 10 years of experience in the beef business, and the majority of these were part-time farmers (55%). Overall, producers were highly satisfied with the program with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 (Likert-type scale) across program topics, and 81% of participants planned to begin the adoption one or more of the management practices shared at the program in the next 12 months. The top three practices producers planned to implement included 1) establishing a calving season, 2) proper identification of livestock, and 3) improved forage management strategies. Participants reported significant knowledge gain across topics presented ranging from a 45 to 76% increase in understanding of practices. Notably, 55% of the participants reported that this was their first time attending an Extension program, demonstrating a great level of effectiveness in this program reaching new clientele. 100% of the participants indicated that they planned to attend Extension programs and use available online decision-making resources in their operations in the future. The total economic impact of the program was $525,450, with an estimated return on investment of 6:1.
Evaluation of Whole Cottonseed Intake and in Situ digestibility in Beef Cattle
Authors: Jacobs Luke L , Mullenix Kim K , Muntifering Russell B , Dillard S Leanne L , Carrell Russell C
Published: May 2021

Whole cottonseed (WCS) is a byproduct of the cotton industry and can be used to supplement protein and energy to beef cattle. Given rapid industry changes in cotton variety use and their influence on WCS size, density, and quality characteristics, periodic evaluation of cotton byproducts is needed to determine appropriate feeding strategies. The objective of this study was to evaluate total WCS intake, gossypol intake, and digestibility of a widely-planted common variety of WCS in the southeastern U.S., Delta Pine 1646 (DP1646), compared with a low-gossypol variety, Ultra-Low Gossypol Cottonseed (ULGCS). Six Angus and Angus-cross calves (two steers and one bull per group) were used in a 28-day feeding trial in a crossover design. Each group was fed either DP1646 or ULGCS for a 7-d acclimation period followed by a 7-d measured intake period. Treatment groups were then switched to the other variety for a second acclimation and measured period. Intake was greater (P = 0.0011) for ULGCS than for DP1646, with an average intake of 2.20 ± 0.24 kg and 1.06 ± 0.24 kg, respectively. Free gossypol intake was not different (P = 0.9371) among treatments with an average daily intake of 13 ± 0.1 ppm and 2 ± 0.8 ppm for DP1646 and ULGCS, respectively. An in situ digestibility trial was conducted using two ruminally-cannulated steers to compare the 72-h digestibility of DP1646 and ULGCS. There were no differences (P = 0.5910) between treatments in total DM digestibility between WCS varieties or treatment by time interaction (P = 0.1270). When evaluating digestibility relative to time, differences were observed (P ≤ 0.0013) at 24, 48, and 72 h. These results indicate that WCS intake was greater for the ULGCS than DP1646, and significant digestibility of either variety was not observed until 24 h of digestion.
Evaluation of KemTRACE® Chromium on Animal Performance and Immune System of Weaned Beef Calves
Authors: Gurung Reshma , Abrahamsen Frank W , Mullenix Kim K , Abdela Woubit , McElhenney Wendell , Gurung Nar
Published: May 2021

Weaned beef calves are stressed and have a compromised immune system making them highly susceptible to various infections. The study evaluated the effect of feeding chromium supplements on beef calves’ performance and immune function. Angus cross beef calves (n = 120) were randomly assigned to pens (n = 12 pens; 6 pens/treatment; 10 calves/pen) in a completely randomized design with subsampling. Calves were fed free-choice Bermuda grass hay, water, and minerals and 2 % of BW of 50 % soyhulls and 50 % corn-gluten mix; dietary treatments used were control (no chromium; n = 60) and chromium-supplemented (0.4 % KemTRACE® chromium; n = 60) during preconditioning trial for 60 days. Calves were weighed on d 0, 30, and 60. Blood samples were collected to perform complete blood counts, serum biochemistry analysis, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, TNF-alpha) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4) measurements using ELISA kits. PHA and COVA challenges respectively assessed cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. Data were analyzed using GLIMMIX procedures of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC) without considering random effect. Results showed that chromium supplementation did not affect the total body weight gain, average daily gain, and feed efficiency of beef calves (P > 0.05). Eosinophil concentration was significantly higher (P < 0.01), and BUN was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in chromium-treated calves. IL-2 was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in chromium-treated than in control calves. TNF-alpha and IL-4 were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in chromium-supplemented than in control calves. IL-6 was not significantly different (P > 0.05) in chromium-treated than in control calves. Although not significant (P = 0.1), skinfold thickness after the PHA challenge tended to be higher for chromium-treated calves than control groups, which align with a high IL-2 response. Results suggest that chromium supplementation may alter the animals’ inflammatory immune response, so it might be considered a suitable feed additive to improve the immune response in the preconditioning calves.
Effects of Dried Distillers’ Grains Cube Supplementation for Steers Grazing Introduced Pastures on Animal Performance and Forage Production
Authors: Adams Jordan , Farris Rodney , Clawson Scott , Ward Earl , Beck Paul
Published: May 2021

We evaluated the effects of supplementing dried distillers’ grains cubes (DDGS) and re-implantation of steers (n = 149; BW = 238 ± 13.8 kg) grazing tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea)/bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) pastures (n = 9 pastures, 7.2 ± 2.90 ha) from 14 April to 17 September 2020 (n = 155 d) in a split-plot design on steer performance and forage production. Main plot supplemental treatments (n = 3 pastures/treatment) included 1) Fertilized Control (FC), no supplementation on fertilized pastures (112 kg N/ha); 2) Fertilized Supplement (FS), supplemental DDGS fed at 2.9 kg 3-d/wk on fertilized pastures; and 3) Supplement (S), supplemented DDGS at 0.75% BW/d on unfertilized pastures prorated for 5-d/wk feeding. Steers were previously implanted during receiving with 40 mg trenbolone acetate and 8 mg estradiol (REV-G; Revalor G, Merck Animal Health). On July 7, steers in each pasture were randomly assigned to one of three re-implant treatments: 1) no re-implant; 2) REV-G; or 3) 200 mg progesterone and 20 mg estradiol (Synovex S, Zoetis Animal Health). Steers in FS and S gained more (P < 0.01) than FC throughout the trial and final BW was greater (P < 0.01) for FS and S compared with FC. Unexpectedly, re-implanting had no effect on ADG (P = 0.57) or BW (P = 0.34), but statistical power may be lacking. Supplemental efficiency was greater in the late summer for FS (P = 0.05) compared to S. Fertilizing pastures in FS and FC did not affect biomass (P = 0.39), however, CP was increased (P = 0.01) and acid and neutral detergent fibers tended to decrease (P = 0.06) relative to S in the early summer (April, May, June, and July), but did not differ in late summer (August and September). Based upon our analysis, DDGS is a suitable supplement and can replace N fertilizer for steers grazing introduced pastures.
Carcass Traits of Growing Meat Goats Fed Different Levels of Hempseed Meal
Authors: Gurung Reshma , Abrahamsen Frank W , Moyer Katie , Sawyer Jason T , Gurung Nar
Published: May 2021

Industrial hemp is currently being investigated as a potential new crop in the U.S. with the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills passage. Hemp seeds are utilized to produce hemp oil and result in Hempseed Meal (HSM) production, rich in crude protein and fiber, making it an ideal candidate as a feedstuff for ruminant animals. This study evaluated the effects of feeding different levels of HSM on the carcass traits and meat quality of crossbred Boer goats. Forty castrated male goat kids with an initial average body weight of 25.63±.33 kg and approximately six months of age and kg were assigned to one of four treatments (n = 10) in a completely randomized design. Goats were fed pelleted diets (50% forage and 50% concentrate). Treatments consisted of different levels of HSM: control with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% HSM supplementation of the total diets. The goats were harvested, and carcasses were processed at the Lambert-Powell Meat Laboratory at Auburn University after a 60-d feeding trial. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedures of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) on the mean values of dressing percentages (46.59, 45.42, 45.77, and 46.16% for 0, 10, 20 and 30% HSM, respectively) and ribeye area (3.68, 3.4, 3.47, 3.39 inches, respectively). The percentage of moisture, fats, proteins, and collagen in the muscles showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the different levels of HSM-containing diets. The marbling scores (376, 399, 355, 364 respectively) were also not significantly different (P > 0.05) among the treatments and are representative of marbling scores indicative of “slight.” Results suggest that producers can include up to 30% of HSM in the diets of growing meat goats without creating a detrimental effect on carcass traits.
Cotton Byproduct Use in Southeastern Beef Cattle Diets: Quality, Intake, and Changes in Feed Characteristics
Authors: Mullenix Kim K , Stewart Lawton
Published: May 2021

Cotton is grown on over 4.5 million hectares in the southeastern U.S. annually, and byproducts of cotton production are utilized as feedstuffs in beef systems. Cotton breeding efforts and variety recommendations for crop production represent potential changes in cotton seed size, density, and quality, which may influence whole cottonseed feed quality characteristics. Also, cotton breeding to reduce gossypol concentration without compromising yield may improve value in ruminant diets. A recent feed intake trial demonstrated greater consumption of ultra-low gossypol seed compared with seed derived from a more widely planted cotton variety (0.072% vs 0.53% free gossypol, respectively) in growing steers (1.9 and 1.1 kg/hd/d, respectively). Historically, cottonseed is limited in bull diets due to the associated of decreased fertility in males due to gossypol. However, a recent study found that feeding up to 3.2 kg/hd/d over a 60-d period to developing beef bulls did not affect sperm quality. Heat damage commonly occurs in cottonseed during storage after the ginning process, but the feed value of heat damaged cottonseed is unknown. A recent study indicated that in situ dry matter (52.2 vs 69.2%) and N (78.1 vs 91.6%) disappearance decreased for heat damaged compared to normal cottonseed, respectively. Cotton gin trash remains a prevalent byproduct with traditionally limited use. Some gins have equipment for baling gin trash in 180-to-270 kg modules, which allow ease of access and transport of gin trash waste for cow-calf producers. Similar to gin trash, grazing cotton crop residue after harvest can decrease the amount of hay fed during the winter. A recent 3-yr study indicated a 2.5 hd/ha stocking rate of mature, non-lactating cows over a 30-d period decreased hay consumption by 65 %. By understanding the feed characteristics and management needed to utilize cotton byproducts, cattle operations can decrease feed cost while maintaining animal performance.
Prediction of Myostatin on Carcass Composition in Crossbred Lambs
Authors: Justice Susan M , Thomas Lexi , Greene Maslyn , Duckett Susan K , Jesch Elliot
Published: May 2021

In order to maintain consumer acceptance of lamb meat, producers are aiming to produce leaner lambs through breeding for certain carcass characteristics. The Texel breed is known for its superior muscling phenotype due to a myostatin mutation. Because of this mutation, Texel and Texel cross lambs have been shown to have improved carcass lean with less fat in various locations throughout the carcass. The objective of this study was to observe the impacts of different sire and dam breeds on carcass composition. Lambs (n = 41) were produced by mating two dam breeds (Southdown or Suffolk) and two sire breeds (Southdown or Texel). Lambs were harvested and a hot carcass weight was obtained. At 24 h postmortem, a chilled carcass weight was taken, and each carcass was split in half. The left side of the carcass was cut into the four primal cuts and scanned using a DXA. The right half was used for standard carcass variables. After DXA scans, each primal was weighed and the major muscles were dissected from the primal cuts and weighed. Subsamples of muscles were used for total lipid analysis and Warner-Bratzler Shear Force testing. DXA scans showed a difference in the primal cut mass (P = 0.0207) with the Suffolk-Texel cross having the highest average primal cut mass at 12.52 kg. Southdown-Southdown lambs had the highest fat percentage (dam P = 0.0398; sire P = 0.0116). Dam breed had a more significant effect on muscle toughness (P < 0.0035). Southdown sired lambs had a higher SFA (P = 0.0046) and MUFA (P < .0001) but Texel sired lambs had a higher overall fatty acid ratio (P < .0001). On average, the Suffolk-Texel cross was shown to have heavier average weight for the primal cuts in the rack and leg, which are where some of the more profitable cuts of meat are located.
Dark Storage of Enhanced Dark-cutting Beef in Nitrite-embedded Packaging Increased Metmyoglobin Formation upon Repackaging
Authors: Denzer Morgan , Mafi Gretchen G , VanOverbeke Deborah , Ramanathan Ranjith
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate nitrite-embedded packaging (NEP) and enhancement effects on the color of dark-cutting beef after repackaging into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) for display. From a commercial packing plant, dark-cutting beef strip loins (n = 8; pH = 6.39) and USDA Low Choice beef strip loins (normal-pH, n = 6) were collected. Bisected dark-cutting loins were randomly assigned to nonenhanced dark-cutting (DCN) and enhanced dark-cutting (DCE) with glucono delta-lactone and rosemary. Steaks (1.91 cm) sliced from nonenhanced normal-pH, DCN, and DCE loins were randomly assigned to 3, 6, or 9 d in dark storage, and DCE steaks were packaged in nitrite-embedded packaging (NEP) while normal-pH and DCN steaks packaged in vacuum packaging. At dark storage d of 3, 6, or 9, steaks were repackaged in PVC and displayed for 6 d. The instrumental color was evaluated every 12 h, and metmyoglobin formation was calculated using the ratio of reflectance of 572 nm and 525 nm. Delta E was calculated to determine the change in color over time using the change in L*, a*, and b* values from h 0 to h 12 of display. Data were analyzed using the Mixed Procedure of SAS, and least squares means were considered significant at P < 0.05 and separated using the PDIFF option. Metmyoglobin formation increased (P < 0.05) within 12 h of repackaging DCE steaks held for 3 d and 6 d of dark storage. At h 12 of display, DCE steaks had significantly more metmyoglobin formation than DCN and normal-pH steaks. The DE of DCE steaks was negative, indicating a decline in color after 12 h of display, while the normal-pH and DCN steaks had a positive DE value indicative of improved surface color. Therefore, repackaging DCE steaks resulted in decreased color stability and increased metmyoglobin formation.
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria: Effects on Yield and Nutritive Value of ‘Russell’ Bermudagrass and ‘KY 31’ Tall Fescue
Authors: Cole Madison , Dillard S Leanne L
Published: May 2021

Commercial N fertilizer are labor intensive and expensive for many forage producers. Alternative N fertility options are necessary for the long-term sustainability of forage systems. A 2-yr experiment evaluating plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) as an alternative N source for ‘Russell’ bermudagrass (C. dactylon) and ‘KY 31’ tall fescue (L. arundinaceum) was conducted in Alabama. Fourteen, 3-m2 plots were treated with full N (56 kg/ha) and ½ N (28 kg/ha), Accomplish LM (AMS), AMS + ½ N, DH44, Blend 20, and a control. DH44 is a single strain of Paenibacillus sonchi, while Blend 20 contains 2 strains of Bacillus pumilus and 1 strain of B. spaericus. Forage samples were taken every 4 weeks with a 0.1-m2 quadrat then analyzed for NDF, ADF, CP, and yield using NIRS. Data were analyzed using Proc GLIMMIX of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst., Cary, NC) as a completely randomized design (n = 2). For both forages, full N had greater (P < 0.0139) yield when compared to the control (tall fescue: 8,295 vs. 7,353 kg/ha; bermudagrass: 9,329 vs. 8,109 kg/ha). There were no differences (P ≥ 0.05) in NDF concentration for either forage. Full and ½ N had greater CP than AMS in bermudagrass (11.5, 11.4%; P ≤ 0.0490). Blend 20 treated bermudagrass had greater ADF than full and ½ N (32.7, 30.7, and 30.9%, respectively; P < 0.0313). Blend 20 treated tall fescue had greater ADF compared to AMS + N and DH44 (35.8, 12.1, and 33.9%, respectively; P < 0.0227). Full N tall fescue had greater CP) compared to AMS (12.1, AMS CP %, respectively; P < 0.0082). DH44 had greater CP compared to AMS and Blend 20 (11.9, 11.0, and 11.0%, respectively; P < 0.0423). For both forages, PGPR treated plots produced yields and maintained forage nutritive value not different than the commercial fertilizer.
Determining the Rate of Ergot-alkaloid Degradation in Toxic Endophyte-infected Tall Fescue Hay and Haylage During Long Term Storage
Authors: Zumbaugh Charles A , Gonia Susannah A , Payne Kathryn M , Wilson Thomas B
Published: May 2021

The objectives of this experiment were to determine changes in the nutritive value and ergot alkaloid concentrations of endophyte-infected tall fescue hay and haylage during a 180-d storage period. Forage from a single field of Kentucky-31 tall fescue was cut for hay in late June and allowed to dry in the field. The dry matter (DM) of the windrow of cut forage was measured every 2 h after clipping. Forage was sampled from the windrow in 6 location blocks once forage DM reached target levels for haylage and hay treatments. Haylage and hay samples were taken when the DM of the windrow reached 50% and 80%, respectively. Seven subsamples of each treatment within block were chopped to 1.91 cm in length with a lettuce chopper and vacuum sealed in oxygen-excluding bags. Sample bags were stored indoors and opened at 30 d intervals over the 180-d storage period. Samples were analyzed for pH, nutritive value, and individual ergot alkaloid concentrations using high-performance liquid chromatography. Within each storage day, treatment within block was considered the experimental unit. Data were analyzed in SAS using the MIXED procedure with fixed effects of treatment, day, and the treatment by day interaction. Location block was considered a random effect. As expected, pH was decreased for haylage compared to hay at all time points (P < 0.01) and DM was greater (P < 0.01) for hay compared to haylage. Neutral detergent fiber values were greater (P < 0.01) for hay compared to haylage and declined during storage (P < 0.01). Total ergot alkaloid concentrations did not differ by treatment (P = 0.61), but ergovaline concentrations declined (P < 0.01) during storage. Collectively, these results indicate minimal differences in nutritive value and ergot alkaloid concentrations between hay and haylage during storage, and that ergovaline concentrations decline during storage.
Neuroendocrine Mechanisms Regulating Reproductive Transition in the Ruminant Female: Is KNDy Required?
Authors: Williams Gary L
Published: May 2021

States of reproductive transition in female livestock represent important and economically significant periods of physiological change that have major impacts on the efficiency and success of breeding and production programs. These include, but are not limited to, the process of sexual maturation, postpartum resumption of ovarian cycles, and cyclical recrudescence in seasonal breeding species. Over the last four decades, our laboratory has focused primarily on determining the fundamental neuroendocrine mechanisms controlling states of reproductive transition in bovine and equine models, and applying principals learned to develop managerial approaches for positive intervention. The objectives of this presentation are to briefly review our understanding of external and internal signaling pathways that regulate two of these transitional states in the bovine female, postpartum resumption of ovulatory cycles and pubertal development. The focus will be to consider contrasts and commonalities of hypothalamic-pituitary signaling pathways that govern the temporal trajectories of these processes, with particular emphasis on those pathways that modulate the GnRH pulse generator. Notably (and until recently), the pulse generator has been a poorly defined “black box” with respect to its cellular origin and neurochemical character. Thus, the synchronous pattern of GnRH neuronal depolarization, multiunit electrical activity, and release of GnRH for the control of gonadotropins have been accepted as intrinsic features of GnRH neurons themselves. However, the identification of the neuropeptide kisspeptin in 1996, and more recently (2007) the description of a specialized population of kisspeptin-secreting neurons in the medial basal hypothalamus, termed KNDy neurons, have provided convincing evidence for an extrinsic source of pulse generation within the arcuate/infundibular region. How do KNDy neurons serve in this function, what is their role in transducing environmental, nutritional, and behavioral signals during transitional states, and what is the potential for neuropeptides of KNDy neuron origin to serve as pharmacological agents to control reproduction?
Determination of Sex in Ungulate Herbivores via near Infrared Spectroscopy of Hair: Growing Cattle as a Surrogate Model
Authors: Tolleson Doug R
Published: May 2021

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has been used in a variety of medical and veterinary science applications. In particular, NIRS calibrations have been developed in livestock for steroid content in cattle hair, and wound age or stage of healing in hot iron cattle brands. These NIRS applications also have potential utility in forensic science. Portable NIRS instruments facilitate measurements on live animals and or animal samples in the field. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of determining sex in growing cattle via NIRS of hair utilizing a portable spectrometer. In two consecutive years, log 1/R spectra (350–2500 nm) were collected using an ASD Field Spec fitted with a contact probe. Experimental subjects were Bos taurus cross calves (n = 12, yr 1; n = 14, yr 2) born to cows grazing central Arizona rangeland. Calf age was approximately 60, 90 and 210 d at branding, estrus synchronization, and weaning, respectively. As cattle were gathered for these routine working events, a total of 7 M and 19 F calves were scanned 3 times each over the left ribcage. A linear discriminant function was applied to spectral data in order to determine sample membership in M or F groups at each collection date. Chi-square procedures were used to determine differences (P < 0.05) in proportion of correct identifications per group and collection date. Overall, 86% of F and 72% of M were correctly (P < 0.05) identified. Corresponding values were 82% for F and 71% for M at branding, 100% for F and 89% for M at estrus synchronization, and 86% for F and 64% for M at weaning. Calf sex was successfully determined using portable NIRS in this proof of concept study. Efficacy of this method should be evaluated for different ungulate herbivores and under additional collection scenarios.
Adrenomedullin and Its Receptor Components in the Porcine Uterus and Peri-implantation Conceptuses
Authors: Liu Bangmin , Paudel Sudikshya , Cummings Magdalina , Wang Xiaoqiu
Published: May 2021

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is an evolutionarily conserved peptide hormone that regulates implantation, embryo spacing and placentation in humans and rodents. However, the potential roles of ADM in domestic animals, particularly pigs (as litter-bearing species), are not known. This study investigated expression patterns of ADM and its receptor components that include calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CALCRL), and receptor activity modifying protein (RAMP2) in porcine uteri and conceptuses (embryonic/fetus and its extra-embryonic membranes) during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy when 30–40% of embryonic death loss occurs. Gilts were observed for estrus and/or bred via artificial insemination at 12 and 24 h after onset of estrus (Day 0). On D 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16 of the estrous cycle and pregnancy (n=6 gilts per day and status), uteri were flushed with 20 ml sterile PBS (pH 7.2) after gilts were subjected to a midventral laparotomy. Pregnancy was confirmed by the presence of one or more morphologically normal conceptuses. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed that ADM mRNA in the endometrium was elevated for pregnant than for cyclic gilts between D 10 and 16 of pregnancy (day x status, P < 0.05). In cyclic gilts, endometrial ADM mRNA increased 9.0-fold (P < 0.05) between D 10 and 16; whereas it increased 58.1-fold (P < 0.01) in pregnant gilts between D 10 and 16. As ADM receptors, expression of mRNAs for CALCRL and RAMP2 also increased (P < 0.05) 13.4- and 5.5-fold, respectively, in the porcine conceptuses between D 10 and 16 of pregnancy. Further, ELISA analyses showed that total recoverable ADM in the uterine flushings was greater (status, P < 0.0001) for pregnant than for cyclic gilts in which ADM increased 173.8-fold (P < 0.0001) between D 10 and 16 of pregnancy. These results indicate that ADM may play functional roles in survival, growth and development of the porcine conceptus during the peri-implantation period of pregnancy.
Genomic Effects of Arginine on Cell Behavior of Conceptus Trophectoderm in Ungulates
Authors: Paudel Sudikshya , Yu Hongyao , Wang Tianyuan , Bazer Fuller W , Wu Guoyao , Burghardt Robert , Hu Guang , Wang Xiaoqiu
Published: May 2021

Hatched ungulate (e.g., pigs, sheep and other ruminants) blastocysts undergo dramatic morphological transitions from spherical to tubular to filamentous forms to conceptuses (embryo/fetus and associated extraembryonic membranes) before implantation. L-Arginine (Arg), a conditionally essential amino acid, is required for this process to activate the mTOR cell signaling pathway to induce proliferation of both porcine and ovine conceptus trophectoderm cells. However, the genomic effects of arginine on trophectoderm cells is unknown. RNA-seq was used for a comparative transcriptome analysis of porcine and ovine trophectoderm cells to further understand effects of Arg on regulation of metabolism in trophectoderm cells. An established porcine trophectoderm (pTr) cell line isolated from D12 porcine conceptuses, as well as an established ovine trophectoderm (oTr) cell line isolated from D15 ovine conceptuses were used to determine response to Arg at the physiological concentration of 0.2 mM in a 48-h culture. In pTr cells, a total of 2,723 differentially expressed genes (DEG; 1,482 up and 1,241 down) were identified in response to Arg. In oTr cells, a total of 5,369 DEG (2,819 up and 2,550 down) were detected. Comparison analyses showed that the Arg-treated pTr and oTr transcriptomes share 873 common DEG (273 up and 342 down). Canonical pathway analyses identified the top enriched pathways in both pTr and oTr cells, including activation of actin cytoskeleton signaling, adrenomedullin signaling, and IGF-1 signaling; and inhibition of cell cycle G2/M checkpoint regulation, and p53 signaling. In response to Arg, pathways associated with cholesterol biosynthesis, and estrogen-mediated S-phase entry were exclusively activated in the pTr cells; whereas interferon signaling, ephrin receptor signaling, and integrin signaling were specifically activated in the oTr cells. Results from this study advance understanding of mechanisms responsible for elongation of ovine and porcine conceptuses and enable the rational design of future experiments.