bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the atrial incision affect rates of early postoperative atrial arrhythmias in mitral valve surgery?
Authors: Bowers Philippa Jane Temple , Ch’ng Stephanie
Published: November 2023

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was ‘in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery, does atrial incision affect early postoperative rates of atrial arrhythmia’. Two hundred and four papers were found. Nine represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Data suggest that a transeptal incision is associated with increased rates of postoperative atrial arrhythmia compared with direct left atriotomy.
Deciphering the pivotal role of people with high-frequency occupational animal exposure in antibiotic resistance transmission between humans and animals
Authors: Li Juan , Song Yuqin , Deng Jianping , Wang Zhaoran , Wong Nai-Kei , Wang Chao , Zhang Gang , Wang Yang , Lu Shan , Che Jie , Zhao Xiaofei , Zhang ZhengDong , Wang Hong , Zhang Ling , Zhang YunFei , Bai Xuemei , Yuan Min , Chen Xia , Zhang Wen , Xiong Yanwen , Kan Biao , Feng Jie
Published: November 2023

Background

The spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) among humans and food-producing animals has been widely reported. However, the transmission routes and associated risk factors remain incompletely understood.

Methods

Here, we used commensal Escherichia coli bacteria strains from faeces of pigs and local citizens [HEG: high exposure group (pig breeders, butchers or restaurant chefs) and LEG: low exposure group (other occupations)] to explore the dynamics of ARB and ARG transmission between animals and humans.

Results

Most ARGs (96%) present in pigs were shared with humans. Carriage rates of the shared ARGs suggest two transmission patterns among pigs, the HEG and LEG: one pattern was highest in pigs, gradually decreasing in the HEG and LEG (e.g. floR and cmlA1); the other pattern was increasing from pigs to the HEG but then decreasing in the LEG (e.g. mcr-1.1). Carriage rates of the HEG were higher than in the LEG in both patterns, implicating the HEG as a crucial medium in transmitting ARB and ARGs between food-producing animals and humans. Moreover, frequent inter/intragroup transmission via strains, plasmids and/or mobile elements was evident. Carriage of mcr-1.1 on human-gut-prevalent plasmids possibly promoted its enrichment in the HEG.

Conclusions

The HEG is a crucial factor in transmitting ARB and ARGs between food-producing animals and humans. Rational measures to contain the risks of occupational exposure are urgently needed to keep dissemination of antibiotic resistance in check and safeguard public health.
Costs associated with invasive Scedosporium and Lomentospora prolificans infections: a case-control study
Authors: Neoh Chin Fen , Chen Sharon C A , Kong David C M , Hamilton Kate , Nguyen Quoc A , Spelman Tim , Tew Michelle , Harvey Emma L , Ho Su Ann , Saunders Natalie R , Tennakoon Surekha , Crowe Amy , Marriott Debbie , Trubiano Jason A , Slavin Monica A
Published: November 2023

Background

Little is known about the short- and long-term healthcare costs of invasive Scedosporium/Lomentospora prolificans infections, particularly in patient groups without haematological malignancy. This study investigated excess index hospitalization costs and cumulative costs of these infections. The predictors of excess cost and length of stay (LOS) of index hospitalization were determined. These estimates serve as valuable inputs for cost-effectiveness models of novel antifungal agents.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted at six Australian hospitals. Cases of proven/probable invasive Scedosporium/L. prolificans infections between 2011 and 2021 (n = 34) were matched with controls (n = 66) by predefined criteria. Cost data were retrieved from activity-based costing systems and analysis was performed from the Australian public hospital perspective. All costs were presented in 2022 Australian dollars (AUD). Median regression analysis was used to adjust excess costs of index hospitalization whereas cumulative costs up to 1.5 years follow-up were estimated using interval-partitioned survival probabilities.

Results

Invasive Scedosporium/L. prolificans infections were independently associated with an adjusted median excess cost of AUD36 422 (P = 0.003) and LOS of 16.27 days (P < 0.001) during index hospitalization. Inpatient stay was the major cost driver (42.7%), followed by pharmacy cost, of which antifungal agents comprised 23.8% of the total cost. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant increased the excess cost (P = 0.013) and prolonged LOS (P < 0.001) whereas inpatient death within ≤28 days reduced both cost (P = 0.001) and LOS (P < 0.001). The median cumulative cost increased substantially to AUD203 292 over 1.5 years in cases with Scedosporium/L. prolificans infections.

Conclusions

The economic burden associated with invasive Scedosporium/L. prolificans infections is substantial.
Antimicrobial stewardship: knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance among non-healthcare students at the University of Zambia
Authors: Mudenda Steward , Chisha Patience , Chabalenge Billy , Daka Victor , Mfune Ruth Lindizyani , Kasanga Maisa , Kampamba Martin , Skosana Phumzile , Nsofu Eustus , Hangoma Jimmy , Siachalinga Linda , Hikaambo Christabel Nang’andu , Chimombe Tadious , Allabi Aurel Constant , Boya Bawa , Mufwambi Webrod , Saleem Zikria , Matafwali Scott Kaba
Published: November 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to the world and could become humanity's next major challenge. This study assessed non-healthcare students’ knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards antimicrobial use (AMU) and AMR at the University of Zambia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 443 non-healthcare students from August to October 2022 using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 24.0.

Results

Of the 433 participants, 55.2%, 63.5% and 45% had moderate KAP scores regarding AMU and AMR. The prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics was 76.7%. Male participants were less likely to have good knowledge (OR = 0.524, 95% CI: 0.347–0.792) and positive attitudes (OR = 0.585, 95% CI: 0.364–0.940) towards AMU and AMR compared with females. Students who were studying Engineering and Mining were more likely to have good knowledge of AMR (OR = 1.891, 95% CI: 1.197–2.987) compared with those in Social Sciences. Those who were in their fourth and fifth years were more likely to have positive attitudes towards AMU and AMR (OR = 1.851, 95% CI: 1.147–2.986) compared with those who were in the first, second and third years. Finally, students who practised self-medication were less likely to have good self-reported practice towards AMR (OR = 0.442, 95% CI: 0.278–0.702) compared with those who did not.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that non-healthcare students had moderate KAP regarding AMU and AMR. All university students should be provided with education about AMU and AMR through free short courses, seminars, workshops, and AMR and antimicrobial stewardship awareness campaigns.
Isolation, characterization of Enterococcus phages and their application in control of E. faecalis in milk
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhao Junxin , Lin Yunzhi , Yuan Lu , El-Telbany Mohamed , Maung Aye Thida , Abdelaziz Marwa Nabil Sayed , Masuda Yoshimitsu , Honjoh Ken-ichi , Miyamoto Takahisa
Published: November 2023

Aims

Isolation and characterization of Enterococcus phages and application of phage cocktail to control E. faecalis in milk.

Methods and Results

For phage isolations, double layer agar method was used. Host range of the phages were determined by the spot test. Twelve phages with varying host ranges were isolated. Phages PEF1, PEF7b, and PEF9 with different host ranges and lytic activities were selected for phage cocktails. Compared to two-phages cocktails tested, the cocktail containing all the three phages displayed stronger antibacterial and biofilm removal activities. The cocktail treatment reduced viable E. faecalis in biofilm by 6 log within 6 h at both 30°C and 4°C. In milk, the cocktail gradually reduced the viable count of E. faecalis and the count reached below the lower limit of detection at 48 h at 4°C.

Conclusion

The strong bactericidal and biofilm removal activities of the phage cocktail suggest the potential of this cocktail as a natural biocontrol agent for combating E. faecalis in milk.
45 Genome Editing of Livestock for Production Agriculture and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Long Charles R
Published: November 2023

Continued population growth and clear evidence of climate change are placing unprecedented strain on food production and health care systems worldwide. Agricultural production goals that highlight environmental sustainability are at the forefront of social dialog, with animal agriculture routinely targeted for inefficiencies, welfare concerns and impact on climate. Genomic selection has transformed animal production and the rate of genetic gain in each generation continues to increase. Nonetheless, it is apparent that the rate of production gains will fall short of the necessary goals of increased efficiency and adaptation to the changing environment. Genetic engineering may have an important role in enhancing livestock production as well as providing new models for research in human health. The CRISPR/Cas and related systems for targeted gene editing has revolutionized livestock genetic engineering by increasing the rate of targeted mutation, thus drastically reducing the cost of producing founder animals with the desired trait. Intentional insertion of well-known mutations into genes such as myostatin have been shown to impart the expected increase in meat production, but have also resulted in undesirable associated traits affecting fertility, marbling and the skeleton. Thus, the approach to increasing meat production may require nuances such as promotor targeting and multiple gene targeting to obtain the desired production characteristics. Efforts to increase disease resistance could have dramatic impacts on animal welfare and production rates, potentially saving millions of animals from morbidity and mortality. However, confronting a single disease with each genetic alteration will be costly and inefficient. Considerations on how broad scale disease resistance could be achieved through genetic engineering will be instrumental in developing livestock with advantages to avoid infection and/or transmission of multiple pathogens. Gene editing also allows correction of mutations that arise in livestock through natural mechanisms while under intense genomic selection for increased production. Removing disease causing mutations in otherwise high value livestock will allow continued production from these lines without concern for inheriting the causative mutation. The same process can be utilized to insert genetic mutations known to phenocopy human conditions providing valuable large animal models of human genetic disease. Increased milk, meat, or eggs per animal unit will sustainably improve high quality, nutrient dense food production while large animal models of human disease will provide a more translational biomedical model for accelerated development of drugs and treatments. These goals are achievable, but require continued investment in innovation, clear regulatory framework for commercialization, education, and public engagement to ensure success.
132 Genetics of Stress Hormone Concentrations in Hair of Healthy Nursery Pigs and Their Relationship with Back Test Responses
Authors: Kayondo Fazhir , Al-Shanoon Hayder , Seddon Yolande , Carette Dylan , Cole Carmen , Janz David , Fortin Frederic , Harding John , Dyck Michael , Plastow Graham , Dekkers Jack C M
Published: November 2023

Cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) are circulating adrenal hormones whose concentration in the blood varies in the face of infectious and non-infectious stressors. Their incorporation into hair makes their concentration in hair a robust retrospective assessment of HPA-axis activity as a measure of the stress response of an animal over the period of hair growth. Our objective was to estimate the genetic parameters of hormone concentrations in the hair of healthy pigs and their genetic correlation with responses to the standard back-test. Hair shaved from the rump area of 871 Large White X Landrace barrows (~40 d of age) from 6 breeding companies, maintained in a high-health nursery, was analyzed for cortisol and DHEA concentrations. Behavioral responses to a 60 s standard back-test were obtained at ~26 d of age, including the number of vocalizations (VN) and struggles (SN) and the intensity of the vocalizations (VI) and struggles (SI). All pigs were genotyped with a 50K SNP panel and imputed up to 650K. Estimates of heritability of log-transformed levels of cortisol and DHEA using univariate animal models were 0.26 ± 0.08 and 0.00, respectively, while litter effects explained 0.19 ± 0.05 and 0.09 ± 0.04 of the phenotypic variance, respectively. Back-test responses were more heritable, ranging from 0.34 ± 0.08 (VI) to 0.58 ± 0.08 (VN), with small litter effects (0.00 to 0.06). Estimates of genetic correlations using bivariate animal models were high among the back-test responses, ranging from 0.58 ± 0.16 for SN-VN to 0.96 ± 0.04 for VN-VI and 0.99 ± 0.10 for SN-SI. Estimates of genetic correlations of cortisol with back-test responses ranged from low (0.08 ± 0.23 with SI) to moderate (0.66 ± 0.27 with SN). We conclude that the concentration of cortisol in the hair of healthy nursery pigs is a heritable molecular phenotype and is genetically correlated with responses to the back-test. In subsequent research, their potential as indicator traits to select for disease resilience will be investigated. This study was funded by Genome Canada, PigGen Canada, and USDA-NIFA grant # 2021-67015-34562.
146 Effect of Sire on Methane Production
Authors: Kilian Levi R
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to determine if sires have a significant effect on methane (CH4) production in a feedlot setting. To reduce the emission of greenhouse gases from cattle, evaluating variables that are easy to manage and change becomes important for a solution. If sires influence methane production, selection can be used to reduce methane production in cattle as sire differences are indicative of a genetic influence. The data used in this study were obtained from Colorado State University (CSU), with animals from John E. Rouse Beef Improvement Center. Animals with methane data were included in this analysis if sire parentage was known. After filtering, there were 68 Angus cattle, with 56 sires and 12 heifers included in the study. A linear model fitting sire and pen to methane was used. RStudio was used for the general linear model, and significance values were generated. Individual CH4 emissions were collected using GreenFeed free-stall systems (C-Lock) in each of the four pens at the CSU Agricultural Research Development and Education Center facility in Fort Collins, CO. Methane emissions were measured over a 52-day period. The average animal age at the start of the period was 241± 15.76 days. After all collections were completed, the mean CH4 mass flow was 180.4 g/day with a median of 181.4 g/day. The minimum was 107.5 g/day with a maximum of 247.0 g/day. There were sex differences (P < 0.05) for (CH4) emission rate. Primary to this study, sires had a significant effect on (CH4) emission rates (P < 0.05). The range of sire means for methane production was considerable with the 1st and 3rd quartiles of 157.8 g/day and 209.6 g/day. In these data, sires significantly influenced the (CH4) emission rates of their progeny, and we believe selection could be used to reduce overall (CH4) emissions. With these results, however, additional analyses to fully understand if there truly is a genetic component to (CH4) production could be undertaken once additional data has been collected. These future studies need to consider the relationships between methane production and other traits such as average daily gain, dry matter intake, and weight as selection needs to occur while considering a system-wide perspective.
407 Awardee Talk: a Survey of Researchable Questions Posed in Collaborating with South Africans
Authors: MacNeil Michael
Published: November 2023

Research priorities in South Africa, indeed in many developing countries, are viewed from a tripartite perspective of economic growth, food security, and increased employment. While these priorities overlap with those of the developed world, they are not entirely consistent. Strikingly the current unemployment rate is approximately 30%; the poverty rate is approximately 55%; and about 25% of the populous experience an insecure food supply. Agriculture is one sector in which the government aims to increase participation of black people and to assist in revitalizing the rural economy and creating jobs. There are an estimated 7.9 million beef cattle in the commercial sector in South Africa and 5.7 million in the emerging and communal sectors. Furthermore, 52% of the cattle in the commercial sector are cows whereas only 35% are cows in the emerging and communal sectors. In traditional communities of the emerging and communal sectors, cattle are important not only economically but also for their cultural significance. Against this background the need for integrated research efforts is magnified. Some pertinent questions guiding research efforts include: Can breed types used by emerging and communal farmers be characterized? Is the characterization of breed resources sufficient to allow for use of breed complementarity and heterosis? Is enough known about the adaptive ability of breed resources to respond effectively to climate change? Can genetic improvement yield advances in production efficiency similar to those seen in developed countries? Are there unique phenotypes to be considered in South African production systems? Can genomic technologies lift productivity in the emerging and communal sectors where traditional performance recording is virtually non-existent? What can be learned by studying livestock that have survived with lower levels of inputs that are commonplace in the emerging and communal sectors?
153 Genomic Prediction and Genetic Parameters of Residual Feed Intake Computed Using Linear and Non-Linear Regression Methods in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Carvalho Alves Anderson A , Araujo Fernandes Arthur F , Breen Vivian , Hawken Rachel
Published: November 2023

Feed efficiency traits are important for reducing feeding costs while potentially decreasing the environmental impact of broiler production. This study aimed to compare the predictive ability of different genome-wide prediction models for residual feed intake (RFI) calculated with linear and non-linear regression techniques. We also evaluated the heritability of such RFI as well as their associations with body weight. Genotypes and phenotypes used in this study were recorded from 32,747 purebred broiler chickens of both sexes. The individual feed intake was monitored daily in floor-raised birds using a radio-frequency antenna system. RFI was computed as the residual term of total feed intake (FI) adjusted for the average metabolic weight (AMW), body weight gain (BWG), and sex. The following regression methods were used to compute RFI: multiple linear regression (MLR), generalized additive model using splines (GAM), support vector regression using a radial basis kernel (SVR), and two-hidden layer neural network (NN). The different RFI assessments were fitted jointly with body weight measured at the end of the feeding trial (FBW) using a two-trait mixed model. The effects of contemporary groups were fitted as fixed for both traits, whereas sex was also considered for FBW. RFI (computed with different regression techniques) was predicted using different genomic prediction models (BayesA, BayesB, BayesCπ, GBLUP, RKHS, and SVR). Genomic prediction accuracy (ACC) was assessed using a random forward validation scheme, in which data from previous generations were used for training the models while later generations were used to test predictions. The effect of the RFI computation method on ACC was tested using an unpaired Wilcoxon test. Sample variance observed for RFI ranged between 57,207.04 and 59,254.76, depending on the regression method used to compute it. Overall, the RFI sample variance was smaller for non-linear methods (NN, SVR, and GAM) compared with the linear model (MLR). The regression methods did not impact the genetic parameter estimates for RFI, which presented a heritability value around 0.32 ± 0.015 and genetic correlation with FBW ranging between 0.22 ± 0.04 and 0.25 ± 0.04. Prediction accuracy across genomic regression methods was slightly higher (P-value = 0.038) when RFI was computed with SVR (0.336 ± 0.023) compared with the MLR (0.329 ± 0.025), although this small difference would have little practical implications. No differences in terms of ACC were observed among the other regression methods used to compute RFI. Our preliminary results indicate that the regression technique used to compute RFI does not have major implications for this trait. Therefore, the MLR method is the preferred choice as it is simpler to implement, and it provides easy-to-interpret parameters.
52 The Power of Pangenome Assemblies in Ruminants
Authors: Murdoch Brenda M , Rosen Benjamin D , McKay Stephanie , Smith Timothy
Published: November 2023

High quality reference genomes are the bases of all genomic research and they have facilitated a wealth of discoveries and research tools for the improvement of livestock species. These works have enabled major advances in the fields of animal science and genetics and impacted livestock production and associated industries for the benefit of society. However, because a single reference genome fails to represent all of the genetic material present across populations, it inherently limits the ability to comprehensively evaluate all genomic variants within a species. A complete understanding of how small and large genomic variants, from single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) to larger structural variations (SV) including insertions/deletions (InDels) and copy number variation (CNVs), have been selected for over time for specific environments and phenotypes, remains elusive. To address this, it is necessary to generate a catalog of genomic variants in populations subjected to natural or artificial selection pressures and evaluate their relationship among phenotypic classes. The pangenome approach is a means to comprehensively identify and catalog genomic variation and representation that will make more suitable reference for mapping population sequence data for variant detection and frequency evaluation. The goal of the most pangenome projects is to provide genomic resources to represent the immense genetic diversity of this species more completely. This will increase our understanding of genetic variation and its role in dictating different phenomes, empowering scientists to predict the physiological outcomes more effectively from genomic variation towards the improvement of breeding strategies. These pangenomes can then be used to discover the underlying mechanism of biological traits and inform future breeding strategies and support sustainable production of this global source of food and fiber.
56 Biomarker-Based High Throughput Sperm Phenotyping: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Authors: Sutovsky Peter
Published: November 2023

Research in our laboratory addresses the unmet need for developing high throughput phenotyping for collecting comprehensive phenotypes of production, reproduction and fitness traits, a major emphasis area of the USDA Blueprint for Animal Genome Research 2022-2027. Our short- and long-term goal within this emphasis area is to identify specific genomic determinants of aberrant sperm quality and integrity that impart unique morphometric and optical properties on functionally defective spermatozoa that can be captured in next generation flow cytometry at a high speed/throughput, and without the need for costly, time-consuming sample processing. We identified a large set of deleterious gene variants associated with specific sperm defects in the genomes of 85 genetically valuable bulls with suboptimal artificial insemination (AI) fertility. Ongoing efforts focus on developing a second generation, label-free sperm phenotyping pipeline, eliminating variance and costs associated with the conventional, probe-based approaches, based on the specific genomic determinants of aberrant sperm quality resulting in unique morphometric and optical properties of spermatozoa, captured by the next-generation, brightfield image-based flow cytometry (IBFC) and translatable to high-precision phenotyping of heritable production traits. First step is to phenotype and validate rare deleterious polymorphisms associated with aberrant sperm head and tail morphologies in aforementioned cohort of 85 genome-sequenced bulls grouped based on prevailing sperm defect phenotype. Focus is on sperm defects predicted to be heritable and non-compensable by increasing sperm number per AI dose, such as knobbed acrosomes (sperm head caps), nuclear vacuoles and aplastic defects of sperm mitochondrial sheath (the major source of energy to fuel sperm movement). Other potentially heritable defects of interest may not be manifested by aberrant sperm morphologies, and only detectable at subcellular/molecular level by applying biomarkers validated by past and ongoing genome-to-phenotype studies. In the second phase, a label free sperm phenotyping pipeline for bull fertility testing will be developed, translatable to somatic cell phenotyping for other heritable traits by using the dedicated FeatureFinder IFBC software integrated with our machine learning pipeline, followed by validation assessing sperm structural integrity, “gentle” live cell sorting and metabolomics. This approach literary puts artificial intelligence in artificial insemination (AI in AI approach). Altogether, such genome-to-phenome efforts align the livestock genomic selection with state-of-the-art animal andrology, veterinary diagnostics and precision breeding, supporting the improvement of livestock industry efficiency through global approaches integrating production, reproduction, nutrition, health, and welfare.
58 Inclusive Strategies for Course Development: Moving Beyond Ada Compliance
Authors: Salas Aaron
Published: November 2023

This session will present how New Mexico State University, through the Disability Access Services Department, works with students who disclose a disability or impairment that creates barriers in their courses or other University sponsored activities. It will include a brief overview of post-secondary trends and the most commonly reported disabilities and requests for accommodations in university settings. Attendees will become familiar with the process to implement accommodations that can mitigate such barriers and what it means to be a qualified student with a disability who can receive accommodations. After covering how to meet the requirements of the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA), the session will provide strategies for course development that can be inclusive of every student and even reduce the need for students with disabilities to request accommodations. We will discuss Universal Design concepts and provide examples of strategies that can be built into a course.
1 Creating Sensor Systems for Real Time Animal Management
Authors: Brown-Brandl Tami M
Published: November 2023

Sustainable animal production needs to consider all aspects of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. Important aspects include 1) waste and odor management, greenhouse gas emissions; 2) animal care and well-being, labor needs, worker safety, and satisfaction; 3) careful use of antibiotics, food safety, and foreign animal disease; and 4) all while the producer needs to make the business show a profit. New technological approaches for building management, animal monitoring, and care should be carefully considered to help satisfy these pressures and concerns. Increases in computing power, sensor systems, and modeling techniques lend themselves to technological advancements in animal agriculture. Research has shown promising results for implementing multiple sensor systems. Precision animal management systems use a variety of sensors to capture real-time data on individual animals and new modeling techniques to process the data into valuable information to aid management decisions. However, data streams from different sources can be problematic. This presentation aims to provide an understanding of current and future technologies and the advantages, difficulties, and pitfalls of processing and combining different types of real-time data. Current technologies used in precision animal management systems include sound, images, and radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. Steps to a successful system include 1) evaluating the needs of the producers and the animals, 2) selecting appropriate sensors, and 3) understanding both the value and the limitation of the captured data and the data processing.
172 Effects of Anesthetic and Analgesic Administration at Castration on the Dry Matter and Water Intake, Growth, Feed Efficiency, and Carcass Characteristics of Beef Steers
Authors: Kovarna Madison , Mucciante Michele , Smith Zachary K , Wright Cody
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of anesthetic and analgesic administration at castration on the dry matter and water intake, growth, feed efficiency, and carcass characteristics of beef steers. Angus (n = 14) and Simmental x Angus (n = 12) bulls (200 to 278 days of age) were randomly assigned to 2 treatments by breed. Control (CON) bulls were castrated by elastration with no pain management. Pain managed (PM) bulls were castrated by elastration, but also received an anesthetic (lidocaine + 10% sodium bicarbonate; 15 to 20 mL) injection and an oral analgesic (meloxicam; 0.992 mg per kg BW). Initial BW = 325.4 ± 36.9 kg and 299.3 ± 48.2 kg for CON and PM bulls, respectively. Steers were provided with ad libitum access to feed and water using an Insentec RIC system (Hokofarm, Marknesse, Netherlands). Beginning 2 weeks after castration, steers received 2 diets containing increasing energy concentrations at weekly intervals until reaching a finishing diet. Steers were implanted 28 d after castration. Dry matter intake (DMI), diet water intake (DWI), liquid water intake (LWI), and total water intake (TWI) were collected from d -7 to d 195. Depression scores were determined at 6, 18, and 30 h after castration. Body weights were collected on d -7, d 0, d 7, d 14, d 21, d 28, and d 195. Camera carcass data and USDA Yield and Quality Grades were collected at slaughter. Data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS and significance was declared at P < 0.05. Dry matter intake, water intake, and BW were analyzed by periods beginning 1 week before castration (d -7 to d -1). Periods 2, 3, and 4 were the weeks following castration (d 0 to d 6, d 7 to d 13, and d 14 to d 20, respectively). Period 5 was from d 21 to d 195 and overall was from d 0 to d 195. Dry matter intake, DWI, LWI and TWI were unaffected by treatment. Average daily gain (P = 0.0178) and G:F (P = 0.0130) were influenced by treatment x period interactions. Pain managed steers gained faster (ADG: 1.26 vs 0.48 kg/d; P = 0.0069) and more efficiently (G:F: 0.148 vs 0.051; P = 0.0032) than CON cattle in the week following castration. Depression scores, carcass characteristics, overall ADG, and overall feed and water intake were not different. Pain management at time of castration improves ADG and G:F in the short term; however, the effects are not different over the duration of the feeding period. Further research is needed to determine the best method of castration pain management for beef cattle.
174 Longitudinal Assessment of Prevalence and Incidence of Salmonella and Escherichia Coli O157 Resistance to Antimicrobials in Feedlot Cattle Sourced and Finished in Two Regions of the U.S
Authors: Dornbach Colten W , Hales Kristin E , Gubbels Erin R , Wells James E , Hoffman Ashley A , Hanratty Ashlee Noelle , Line Dalton J , Smock Taylor M , Manahan Jeff L , McDaniel Zach S , Kohl Kesley B , Burdick Sanchez Nicole C , Carroll Jeffery A , Rusche Warren C , Smith Zachary K , Broadway Paul R
Published: November 2023

The objective was to investigate the influence of cattle origin and region of finishing on the prevalence of Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and select antimicrobial resistance in E. coli populations. Yearling heifers (n = 190) were utilized in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Heifers (n = 98) in the northern region were sourced from South Dakota (SD) while heifers (n = 92) in the southern region were sourced from Texas (TX). After feedlot arrival in each respective region, fecal Salmonella prevalence was determined, and heifers were sorted into 1 of 4 treatments: heifers sourced from SD and finished in SD (SD-SD); heifers sourced from SD and finished in TX (SD-TX); heifers sourced from TX and finished in SD (TX-SD); heifers sourced from TX and finished in TX (TX-TX). Transport for SD-TX and TX-SD heifers occurred on d 0. Fecal, pen, and water scum line (WSL) samples were collected longitudinally throughout the study; hide and subiliac lymph node (SLN) samples were collected at study end (d 78 for heifers finished in TX and d 90 for heifers finished in SD). A treatment × time interaction was observed (P ≤ 0.01) for fecal Salmonella prevalence, with prevalence being greatest for TX-TX and TX-SD heifers before transport. From d 14 through study end, prevalence was greatest for TX-TX and SD-TX heifers compared with SD-SD and TX-SD heifers. The TX-SD heifers had a 72% decrease in Salmonella prevalence from d 1 to harvest, whereas the SD-TX heifers had a 2,200% increase in Salmonella prevalence from d 1 to harvest. Salmonella prevalence on hides were greater (P ≤ 0.01) for heifers finished in TX compared with SD. Salmonella prevalence in SLN tended (P = 0.06) to be greater in TX-TX and SD-TX heifers compared with TX-SD and SD-SD. Fecal E. coli O157:H7 prevalence had a treatment × time interaction (P = 0.04), with SD-TX prevalence being greater than TX-SD on d 56 and SD-SD and TX-TX being intermediate. A treatment × time interaction was observed for fecal trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-resistant and cefotaxime-resistant E. coli O157:H7 prevalence (P ≤ 0.01). Overall, these data suggest region of finishing influences pathogenic bacterial shedding patterns, with the initial 14 d after feedlot arrival being critical for pathogen carriage.
200 The Effects of Whole Hemp Seed Supplementation on Health Status, Voluntary Physical Activity, Fecal Quality, and Fermentative End-Products in Healthy Adult Dogs
Authors: Finet Shannon E , Vargas Krystal A , Riggins Chance , de Godoy Maria R C
Published: November 2023

The cultivation and utilization of hemp and hemp-derived products have increased at a rapid pace since the enactment of the 2018 farm bill which provided changes in regulation related to cannabis. Although there are three hemp-derived ingredients that have been generally recognized as safe status for human consumption by the FDA, no ingredients have been approved by the FDA for consumption by companion animals or defined by AAFCO. Hemp seeds have the potential to act as a rich source of plant protein, polyunsaturated fatty-acids, and dietary fiber in companion animal nutrition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing ground whole hemp seed in a baked chew on voluntary physical activity, fecal characteristics, fermentative-end products, and overall health status in healthy adult dogs. All animal procedures were approved by the University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee and were in accordance with the United States Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. Thirty adult beagle dogs were used in a complete randomized design, with ten dogs assigned to each treatment. The dogs were fed the same commercially available, complete and balanced diet and were supplemented with one of three baked chews containing either a high inclusion of ground hemp seed (50%), a low inclusion of ground hemp seed (25%), or cellulose. The baked chews were fed at a level of 10% of the daily intake for 28 d and were formulated to be similar in macronutrient composition, approximately 25% fat, 20% protein, and 25% total dietary fiber. Duration and intensity of voluntary physical activity was measured using activity monitors for 4 d before supplementation and at the end of the supplementation period (d 24 to 27). Fasted blood and a fresh fecal sample were taken on d 0, 14, and 28 to monitor health status, blood variables, fecal characteristics and fermentative-end product concentrations. The baked chews were well accepted by the dogs with minimal intake refusals, and all dogs remained clinically healthy for the duration of the experimental period. No differences in fecal score or fecal pH were observed among the treatment groups (P > 0.05). The treatment did not have an effect on fecal concentrations of volatile fatty acids including acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate, isovalerate, and isobutyrate (P > 0.05). Concentrations of fecal ammonia, phenols, and indoles were also similar among the groups (P > 0.05). No adverse effects were observed, and the data suggest that in a baked chew the whole ground hemp seed was comparable to the cellulose control.
195 Restricted Feeding and Weight Loss Change Fecal Metabolite Concentrations and Microbiota Populations of Overweight Cats
Authors: Opetz Danielle , Oba Patricia Massae , Kostiuk Darcia , Kelly Janelle , Swanson Kelly S
Published: November 2023

Feline obesity negatively influences many metabolic processes, health outcomes, and the individual well-being of cats, but little research evaluates the modification in gastrointestinal microbiota in an overweight state. The use of specially formulated diets and restricted feeding, resulting in subsequent body weight (BW) loss, may be used to improve health and modify gastrointestinal microbiota of overweight cats. This study aimed to identify and determine the effects of restricted feeding and BW loss on fecal metabolite concentrations and microbiota populations of overweight cats. All procedures were approved by the University of Illinois IACUC before experimentation. Twenty-two overweight adult spayed female and neutered male cats [BW = 5.70 ± 1.0 kg; BCS = 7.68±0.6; age = 4 ± 0.4 yr] were used in a 24-wk BW loss study. A control diet (OR) was fed during a 4-wk baseline to identify intake needed to maintain BW. After baseline (wk 0), cats were allotted to OR or a BW loss diet (FT) and fed to lose ~1.0% BW/wk. Fecal samples were collected at baseline (wk 0), and weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 for microbiota and metabolite analyses. Fecal microbiota data were analyzed and evaluated using QIIME2 and Mixed Models procedure of SAS, with P < 0.05 considered significant. Change from baseline fecal acetate, propionate, butyrate, total short-chain fatty acid, isobutyrate, valerate, phenol, indole, and total phenol and indole concentrations were reduced (P < 0.05) with restricted feeding and BW loss. Change from baseline fecal scores and valerate concentrations were also affected by diet, with greater (P < 0.05) reductions occurring in cats fed OR than those fed FT. Change from baseline fecal pH was also greater (P = 0.05) in cats fed OR than those fed FT. Fecal bacterial alpha diversity was not affected by diet or restricted feeding and BW loss. However, fecal bacterial beta diversity, assessed by weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances and presented as principal coordinate plots, showed separation between dietary groups, with some significant clustering as a result of restricted feeding and weight loss. The relative abundances of a single fecal bacterial phylum and 5 fecal bacterial genera were impacted by restricted feeding and weight loss. Diet had a greater effect, with 3 fecal bacterial phyla and 19 fecal bacterial genera being different (P < 0.05) between dietary treatment groups. Our data demonstrate that restricted feeding of specially formulated diets, and subsequent BW loss, modifies the fecal metabolite profiles and microbiota populations of overweight cats. The mechanisms by which these changes may affect feline gastrointestinal health and metabolism requires further study.
198 Evaluation of Textural Characteristics of Commercially Available Sweet Potato Jerky-Style Pet Treats
Authors: Domer Randy N , Romero Jorge , Berganza Ileana , Carrera Hilary , Dunavant Justin , Cho Sungeun , Starkey Jessica D , Starkey Charles
Published: November 2023

The global pet food industry is expected to reach USD $118.83 billion by 2025 with a compound annual growth rate of 5.3%. This rapid growth, attributed to increased urbanization and pet humanization, has resulted in increased pet owner expectations when buying pet food and treats, where greater priority is given to buying healthy and quality pet nutrition products. Texture is 1 of the 4 main quality factors of fresh or processed treats, along with appearance, flavor, and nutritional properties, which pet owners rely on to make purchasing decisions and judge quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate textural characteristics of different commercially available sweet potato jerky-style treats. Three commercially available sweet potato jerky pet treats representing the current US. market were randomly selected for analysis (Brand 1, Brand 2 and Brand 3). A total of 50 samples were analyzed (n = 10 from each treatment per analysis). A TA-43R probe on a TA-HDplusC texture analyzer was used for the 3-point bend (3PB) test to assess hardness (force to break), flexibility (distance to break), and stiffness (force over distance), while a Warner-Bratzler (WBSF) probe was used for the shear force (SF) test to evaluate firmness (force required to cut through 60% of the sample) and toughness (total force over distance). Data were analyzed as a 1-way ANOVA using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 with mean separation at P ≤ 0.05 using the PDIFF option. For 3PB, Brand 3 samples required the most force over distance among all treatments (P ≤ 0.0001). The greatest force to break was needed for Brand 3 (P ≤ 0.0001) followed by Brand 2 and Brand 1 (P ≤ 0.0006). The greatest distance to break was required for Brand 2 samples, followed by Brand 1 and Brand 3 (P ≤ 0.0001). For the SF test, there was no difference in the force required to cut through the sample among products (P = 0.1527). The total force over distance was greater for Brand 3 samples compared with all other products. (P = 0.0191). In summary, Brand 3 was harder, stiffer, firmer and tougher than Brand 2 and Brand 1. However, Brand 2 was more flexible compared with the other products. As pet treat buyers are presented with more options, they are making more informed decisions about what their pets eat based on quality, preference, and personal beliefs. Therefore, establishing and understanding quality parameters for processing products is useful for future product development and consumer preference. Analyses of product organoleptic characteristics like these combined with the future consumer sensory panel intent to purchase surveys will enable pet treat producers to better achieve the desired qualities of pet owners to improve the market potential for their new products.
92 Implications of Processing and Handling on the Functionality of Animal Derived Products for Pet Foods
Authors: Lonergan Elisabeth Huff , Frame Carl
Published: November 2023

The pet food industry has been closely tied to the livestock, meat, and rendering industries by using materials left over from human food production. Rendered animal fats are an excellent source of dietary fat and provide enhanced palatability when used to enrobe dry pet food. Mechanically deboned meat, viscera, and rendered protein meals are often utilized as a primary source of highly digestible, well-balanced proteins and vitamins and minerals. Although these products can be easily transported and stored, they are susceptible to oxidative and microbial degradation. Antioxidants and antimicrobials aid in preserving the quality of these ingredients but are only part of the solution. How these ingredients are produced, stored, and handled can impact quality. It is important to remember that this raw material stream starts with livestock management practices. Specifically, changes in nutritional practices in the livestock industry can impact the characteristics of the products used for both human and pet foods, especially when considering poultry and pork products. Demands by consumers in the meat industry have resulted in the popularity of vegetarian diets. For example, decreased amounts of rendered animal protein meals in diets fed to chickens and turkeys have shifted towards more unsaturated fats, ultimately decreasing oxidative stability. Handling animal products throughout their supply chain can also affect product quality and potential usability. After harvest, raw material is often transported and processed by two or more different facilities before arriving at the pet food manufacturer. At the meat and rendering facilities, food safety hurdles along with processing aids can limit biogenic amine or free fatty acid formation. Once oxidation and microbial degradation occur, they cannot be reversed. Therefore, addressing food safety or oxidation control upstream in the supply chain is critical. Since each facility is unique in how co-products are processed and handled, understanding how different antioxidant blends and how and where these are applied all impact final product quality; this carries through to the quality and shelf life of the pet food diet these ingredients are intended for. With most pet foods targeting 18 months to 2 years of shelf life, starting with high-quality ingredients is key to achieving these goals. The human food, rendering, and pet food industries remain closely tied together. Trends within the meat and rendering industry result in the potential for these ingredients to be more susceptible to quality and functionality changes. The pet food industry must continue to monitor and evaluate changes in livestock production practices and product handling. Proactive management of these ingredients throughout the supply chain can ensure that these ingredients remain high-quality, cost-effective ingredients for pet food.