bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
94 Performance of growing beef cattle consuming bahiagrass hay treated with calcium oxide and molasses and supplemented with cottonseed meal
Authors: Ciriaco Francine M , Henry Darren D , Canal Luara B , Sanford Carla D , Barreneche Gonzalo , Luna Ana C G , Dubeux Jose C B , DiLorenzo Nicolas
Published: July 2019

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) hay treated with calcium oxide (CaO) and molasses, offered ad libitum, on performance of growing beef cattle supplemented with cottonseed meal. Sixty-four growing Bos taurus and Bos indicus influenced heifers (249 ± 26 kg of BW) and steers (249 ± 20 kg of BW) were used in a randomized complete block design. The experiment consisted of a 56 d period in which animals were weighed every 14 d. On d 0, animals were weighed after 16-h water and feed withdrawal, stratified by sex, breed, and BW, and blocked by initial BW. Cattle were then allotted to 16 dormant bahiagrass pastures (1.34 ha each; 4 animals/pasture), which were located in 2 different areas within 0.52 km of each other. Pastures were stratified by location and randomly assigned (n = 8 pastures/treatment) to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) hay treated with 10% molasses (DM basis) + water (to 35% DM; MOL) or 2) hay treated with 5% CaO (DM basis) + 10% molasses (DM basis) + water (to 35% DM; CAO). Cottonseed meal was provided at a rate of 0.3% of cattle BW/d (as fed basis). Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS and pasture was the experimental unit. The model included the fixed effects of treatment and sex. Location and block were included as random effects. Initial and final BW were not affected by treatment (P = 0.573, P = 0.453; initial and final BW, respectively) or sex (P = 0.512, P = 0.670; initial and final BW, respectively). Additionally, no effects of treatment (P = 0.767) or sex (P = 0.285) were observed on ADG (average of 0.537 kg). In conclusion, bahiagrass hay treated with molasses alone or in combination with CaO failed to improve performance of growing beef cattle
144 Monensin effects on beef calves receiving limited creep-feeding supplementation
Authors: de Oliveira Rhaiza Alves , Vendramini João , Moriel Philipe , Arthington John , Miranda Miguel , Vedovatto Marcelo , Silva Hiran da
Published: July 2019

Monensin is a feed additive used to increase performance of beef cattle; however, the effects on cattle grazing warm-season perennial forages with limited levels of concentrate are inconsistent. The objective of this study was to test the effects of monensin on performance of beef calves receiving limited creep-feeding supplementation. The experiment was conducted in Ona, FL, from April to August (112 d) 2018. The creep-feeding supplementation level was 400 g of soybean meal/d. Calves were supplemented 3 days per week, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, thus the daily supplementation level was multiplied by 7 d and divided by 3 feeding days. Treatments were monensin (20 g/kg of the expected DMI) or control (no monensin), distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Twenty four cow-calf pairs (415±29 and 162±35 kg, respectively) were randomly distributed in eight limpograss (Hemarthria altissima) pastures (experimental units; 1.0 ha/pasture; 3 cow-calf pairs/pasture). Pastures were grazed with a continuous and fixed stocking rate. There was no difference in herbage mass (mean = 2,250 kg/ha, P =0.52, SE = 120) and herbage allowance (HA, mean = 1.2 kg DM/kg LW, P = 0.52, SE = 0.04) between treatments. In addition, there was no effect of monensin on calf average daily gain (mean = 0.77 kg/d, P = 0.27, SE = 0.04), cow body condition score (BCS, mean = 5.1, P = 0.15, SE = 0.15), and calf coccidia infestation (mean = 0.18 log egg count, P = 0.98, SE = 0.08). Calves receiving monensin consumed a lesser (P < 0.01) proportion of the supplement than control in the first 13 h after supplementation (76 vs. 95%). Monensin was not effective to increase performance of beef calves receiving limited creep-feeding supplementation.
108 Effects of post-weaning supplementation of immunomodulatory feed ingredient on cortisol concentrations and microbial populations in programmed fed beef heifers
Authors: McCarty Keelee J , Tipton Jessie , Ricks Ralph , Danielo Jessica L , Thompson Jesse , Long Nathan
Published: July 2019

The objective was to determine the effects of immunomodulatory feed ingredient during post-weaning on cortisol concentration and fecal microbial populations of beef heifers. Commercial Angus heifers (n = 72) from two AI sires were blocked (n = 9) by sire and BW, randomly assigned to one of two pens (4 heifers/pen) per block, then assigned to treatments. Heifers were fed twice daily from d 0 to 60 (gain 0.75 kg/day) and top-dressed once daily with either 72g of Celmanax (CEL) or corn germ (CON; corn germ meal) per pen. After 60 days, two heifers per pen (n = 32) were randomly selected for a transportation challenge. Fecal grab samples were collected on d 0 and 69 of treatment, hr -24, 0, 24 of the challenge and 7 d post-challenge. Serum samples were collected at h 0, 4, 8, and 12 of the challenge. Clostridia and E. coli were enumerated from fecal samples using selective media. Isolates (≤ five isolates from each media per sample) were genetically tested to determine if they were C. perfringens or pathogenic E. coli. Fecal samples were enriched for detection of Salmonella. Pen was the experimental unit and data was analyzed by ANOVA or repeated measures analysis. Following treatment, decreased (P ≤ 0.05) populations of total E. coli, Salmonella, and C. perfringens were observed in CEL heifers compared to CON heifers, whereas clostridia and pathogenic E. coli were not different (P > 0.05) between treatments. Transportation stress increased (P ≤ 0.05) populations of clostridia, C. perfringens, total E. coli, and Salmonella, but decreased (P = 0.0252) pathogenic E. coli counts. Cortisol concentrations were decreased (P < 0.05) in CEL heifers compared to CON heifers throughout the challenge. In summary, supplementation of Celmanax post-weaning altered microbial populations and cortisol concentrations were reduced during transportation in beef heifers.
107 Timing of progesterone exposure effects pregnancy rates following fixed time artificial insemination in postpartum beef cows
Authors: Smith Anna L , Poole Rebecca K , Mayberry Kyle , Newsome McKayla A , Dudley Harrison B , Poole Daniel H
Published: July 2019

Advancements in reproductive technologies have improved pregnancy rates in postpartum cows; however, undesirable consequences leading to reduced fertility still occur. Thus, the objectives were to determine if presence of a corpus luteum (CL) at the start of estrous synchronization (AIM1) or if the length of proestrus (interval from progesterone removal to a GnRH-induced LH surge; AIM2) alters fixed timed artificial insemination (FTAI) pregnancy rates. Cycling postpartum cows (n = 285) at two locations were synchronized using the CO-Synch+CIDR® FTAI protocol. Ultrasonographic measurements of luteal area were recorded at CIDR insertion. To determine the impact of proestrus length, cows were randomly assigned to either undergo CIDR removal at the time of PGF2a injection (long proestrus, n = 145), or CIDR removal 24 hours post PGF2a injection (short proestrus, n = 140). Blood samples were collected at CIDR insertion and at insemination for progesterone (P4) analysis. Pregnancy status to FTAI was assessed using ultrasonographic diagnosis at 30 d post insemination. Data were analyzed using a MIXED procedure of SAS and examined for effects of length of proestrus, P4 concentration, luteal area, sire, location, and age. Statistical significance was determined at P0.05) pregnancy rates. Pregnancy rates were greater in cows with >1 ng/mL P4 compared to cows with 0.05). Cows > 4 y old had higher AI pregnancy rates compared to 2–3 y cows (70.2±7.4 vs. 51±5.8%, respectively; P > 0.05). Based on these data, incorporating a presynchronization program to ensure the presence of a functional CL at the start of a FTAI protocol may improve pregnancy success in postpartum beef cows.
114 The relationship of cell mediated immune response of Brahman cows on calving interval
Authors: Mund Marianna E , Neuendorff Don A , Quail Lacey , Banta Jason P , Riley David G , Welsh Thomas H , Randel Ronald D
Published: July 2019

The relationships between cell-mediated immune response (CMIR) of cows and calving interval and calf growth were evaluated. Calving interval was evaluated for each of the initial 7 life-time opportunities that females had to produce a calf. The number of days from when the cow had a calf until she calved again determined the cow’s calving interval for each year. The Spring breeding seasons were divided into 45-d artificial insemination and 45-d natural service periods. The Fall breeding season was natural service each year. Multiparous Brahman cows (n = 435) had records for breeding and calving dates and calf weaning weights. The CMIR (hypersensitivity response to Candida albicans measured using tail-fold thickness) was determined once for each female in the Fall and early Winter 2015. Cows were classified into response groups based on mean and SD of CMIR. High responders were those with CMIR ½ SD ≥ the mean (≥ 2.8 mm), Intermediate cows were within ½ SD of the mean (2.7-1.8 mm), and cows ½ SD ≤ the mean were Low (≤ 1.7 mm). Data were analyzed using repeated measures, mixed, and Chi Square procedures (SAS 9.4). Variables included calving interval, cow age, CMIR response group, pregnancy status, calf count, calf sex, cow sire, calf sire, and calf adjusted 180-d weaning weight. A greater proportion of High CMIR cows made it to their 6th calving interval. Chi Square analysis indicated that High CMIR cows were more likely to remain in the herd longer and produce a calf each year. Cows with High CMIR had a greater stayability (P = 0.1). Selection for High CMIR can result in selection of cows which are more likely to remain in the herd long enough to be profitable as they have a greater stayability and shorter calving intervals (about 25 days) than their Low CMIR herdmates.
157 The relationship of weaning stress, sex and temperament on fecal microbiota and metabolites in Brahman calves
Authors: Gart Elena V , Lawhon Sara D , Suchodolski Jan S , Randel Ronald D , Welsh Thomas H
Published: July 2019

The relationship of weaning stress on fecal microbiota and serum and fecal metabolites of calm and temperamental 6-month-old Brahman bulls and heifers was studied. Temperament score (average of pen score and exit velocity) was used to classify calf temperament. Rectal fecal samples and jugular blood samples were collected from 10 calm and 10 temperamental calves (5 bulls and 5 heifers of each temperament) at weaning and d 4 after weaning. Fecal bacterial DNA was used to characterize microbiota by Illumina sequencing, MiSeq, QIIME, UniFrac, and analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) methods. Serum and fecal samples were used to characterize metabolites by untargeted GC-TOF mass spectrometry, ChromaTOF, and BinBase methods. Univariate analysis (alpha value for the Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney test = 0.05, FDR = 0.1) was used to determine differentially abundant microbial taxa and metabolites. Serum cortisol concentration was greater (P < 0.05) in temperamental than in calm calves. Serum cortisol was greater (P < 0.05) in heifers than bulls. The principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) plot showed 71 and 31 bacterial taxa were differentially enriched between day and sex at d 4, respectively; and 51 unknown and 9 known fecal metabolites were differentially enriched between day and sex at d 4, respectively. Abundance of metabolites of neuroactive compounds in fecal and serum samples varied by weaning, sex and temperament. Specifically, by d 4 5-aminovaleric acid, 5-methoxytryptamine, adenosine, capric acid, glutamic acid, tyramine, and 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were enriched (P < 0.05) in feces. By d 4 metabolites associated with lipolysis were differentially enriched in serum. Energy related metabolites (glycerol-3-galactoside, glucose and trehalose) were enriched (P < 0.05) in serum of temperamental relative to calm calves. Serum GABA was differentially enriched (P < 0.05) in heifers relative to bulls. The presence of microbiota taxa and metabolites associated with behavior and energy homeostasis were differentially affected by calf sex, temperament, and weaning stress.
125 Tick burden observed on cattle and sheep during winter season on the Edwards Plateau of Texas
Authors: Hays Samantha R , Teel Pete D , Starns Heath D , Garza Nick , Moen Robert , Tolleson Douglas R
Published: July 2019

Multi-species livestock grazing is a common practice in the Edwards Plateau of Texas. Winter demands on livestock are high because of forage quality and quantity limitations and stresses of tick parasitism. Our objective was to assess winter-active tick burden on livestock and gauge effectiveness of a pour-on synthetic pyrethroid acaricide. At the Sonora AgriLife Station, 26 Bos taurus crossbred heifers (260 ± 6 kg) and 28 Dorper ewes (42 ± 1 kg) were maintained on 97.125 hectares of rangeland. Tick burden was assessed by individual animal inspection on: 12-18-2017, 01-05-2018, 01-122018, 01-26-2018, 02-09-2018, 02-16-2018, 02-23-2018, and 03-08-2018. Trial 1 acaricide treatment was applied 01-05-2018 on heifers and ewes chosen randomly to serve in the non-treated control (13 heifers; 14 ewes) or acaricide-treated (13 heifers; 14 ewes) groups. Trial 2 acaricide treatment was applied 02-16-2018 using a switchback design. Tick species included Amblyomma americanum, Dermacentor albipictus, and Ixodes scapularis. Tick burden differences were determined by analysis of variance procedures. There were no differences in tick burden on heifers or ewes prior to acaricide application for Trial 1 nor Trial 2 (P > 0.276, 0.002 ± 0.46; P > 0.354, 0.002 ± 0.11 and P > 0.606, 0.002 ± 0.05; P > 0.705, 0.001 ± 1.34, respectively). There were no differences (P > 0.149) between acaricide-treated (0.519 ± 0.05) and non-treated control (0.644 ± 0.07) heifers in Trial 1 nor Trial 2 (0.759 ± 0.07 and 0.404 ± 0.04, respectively). Similarly, there were no differences (P > 0.997) between acaricide-treated (2.964 ± 0.31) and non-treated control (2.965 ± 0.3) ewes in Trial 1 nor Trial 2 (1.015 ± 0.13 and 5.563 ± 0.45, respectively). We conclude ticks challenge the well-being and production in overwintering livestock in the Edwards Plateau. Alternative acaricides should be evaluated for efficacy and efficiency in these production systems
162 Assessment of daily intake by beef heifers of sweet potato storage roots under competitive limit-feeding conditions
Authors: Parish Jane A , Rutherford Cobie , Meyers Stephen L , Shankle Mark W
Published: July 2019

Excess consumption of sweet potato storage roots (SWP) poses an acidosis risk to cattle that may be mitigated by limit-feeding strategies. Yet limit-feeding is often administered to achieve mean desired daily DMI in groups of cattle with little regard for DMI variation among individuals. The study objective was to assess variation in daily DMI of SWP by beef heifers in limit-fed, competitive feeding groups. Twenty-four 9- to 10-mo-old Bos taurus crossbred heifers were stratified by initial BW (261.9 ± 8.8 kg) to 4 paddocks (6 heifers/ paddock) and offered SWP (24.9% DM on an as-fed basis; 7.7% CP, 5.9% ADF and 80% TDN on a DM basis) supplementation daily at a rate of 3.4 kg DM/ paddock with ad libitum access to mixed-grass pasture. After a 7-d acclimation period in which all heifers were trained to use a GrowSafe system, daily SWP DMI was monitored for 39 days. Standard deviation estimates were calculated from DMI data and used to classify DMI into the following levels: low (2.0 kg, >0.5 SD). Half of the heifers (mean SWP DMI = 0.0 ± 0.02 kg) never consumed SWP at the high DMI level, but 42% of the heifers (mean SWP DMI = 1.1 ± 0.02 kg) consumed SWP at the high DMI level for at least 18 days over the study duration. No heifers consumed at the moderate DMI level more than 16 days during the trial. This suggests that DMI of individual cattle offered SWP in limit-fed groups often either exceeds by approximately 2-fold per animal mean values of SWP offered per group or is at or near zero. Additional research is needed to elucidate optimal group feeding strategies to achieve individual DMI targets among cattle offered SWP.
171 The effect of forage quality and protein supplementation source on digestibility of Tifton 85 Bermudagrass
Authors: Maia Fabio J , Lourenco Jeferson M , Seidel Darren , Intanoo Malinee , Callaway Todd R , Hancock Dennis W , Stewart Lawton
Published: July 2019

An in vitro experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of quality and supplementation (CON-control, no supplement, DDG-dried distillers grains, 29.32% CP, LFD-liquid feed, 56.45% CP) on IVDMD, NDF disappearance (NDFD) and ruminal fermentation parameters of Tifton 85 Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon). Forage was harvested at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wk over three growing seasons to simulate various forage management practices. Samples were analyzed by Near-infrared spectroscopy and stratified by relative forage quality (RFQ). Samples were selected to represent high (120), medium (100) and low (80) RFQ. The LFD was added at 5.4% of DMI, equivalent to 0.91 kg (as fed) per head per day. The DDG was included at equivalent of 16.99%, 14.36%, and 12.23% of total DM for the high, medium, and low low RFQ forages, respectively, to make the treatments isonitrogenous to the LFD treatments. Fermentations were carried out for 48 h on 3 d. The experiment was analyzed as a 3 x 3 factorial; arrangement with RFQ and type of supplement as factors. The IVDMD (46.9, 54.6, and 62.8%) and NDFD (41.7, 53.8, and 56.1%) increased (P < 0.001) as RFQ increased. Supplementation increased (P < 0.009) NDFD (39.7, 49.5, and 59.5%) but only the LFD increased IVDMD (52.7, 55.4 and 56.2%). An RFQ x supplement interaction was observed for IVDMD (P < 0.001) and NDFD (P < 0.007). No effects of supplementation were observed for high RFQ. For medium RFQ forage quality only LDF increased IVDMD and DDG was not different from CON or LDF; and no effect of supplementation was observed for NDFD. Supplementation increased IVDMD and NDFD for low RFQ forage. There was no effect of supplementation on total gas production or total VFA concentrations. Supplementation with LFD and DDG improves IVDMD and NDFD in low RFQ Bermudagrass, and LFD supplementation can enhance IVDMD in medium RFQ forage quality
169 Increasing levels of sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles in feedlot diets: effects on nutrient digestibility, ruminal degradability and fermentation
Authors: Pancini Stefania , Simeone Alvaro , Bentancur Oscar , Mercadante Vitor R G , Beretta Virginia
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of increasing levels of sorghum dry distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) in high concentrate feedlot diets in the nutrient digestibility (%), ruminal degradability (%), pH, NH4 (µg N-NH4/ml) and volatile fatty acid (VFA, mM/l) concentration. Four ruminally cannulated steers (450 ± 63 kg) were used in a 4x4 Latin square design, evaluating four treatments in four periods of 19 days each, with 14 days of adaptation and 5 days of measurements. Animals received a TMR, 92% concentrate (63% sorghum grain, 25% soybean meal, 4% mineral commercial premix), with DDGS (90% DM, 29% CP, 51% NDF, 9% EE) in increasing levels generating 4 treatments: 0, 15, 30, or 45%. Replacing a combination of sorghum grain and soybean meal to maintain diets isoproteic. The TMR was offered ad-libitum to each animal in individual pens. Greater levels of DDGS increased the consumption of NDF (P = 0.0001) and EE (P = 0.0004), and NDF total tract apparent digestibility (linear; P = 0.038), but it decreased quadratically EE total tract apparent digestibility (P = 0.017). The DM (84.2 ± 0.17) and the CP total tract apparent digestibility (85.3 ± 2.0) was not affected by increasing levels of DDGS. Nevertheless, the ruminal degradability of total DM (P = 0.01) and CP decreased linearly (P = 0.01), without affecting NDF degradability (65.6 ± 4.3). Increasing levels of DDGS did not change ruminal pH (5.6 ± 0.14), acetate (45.1 ± 6.3), propionate (24.8 ± 3.6), and butyrate (5.2 ± 0.7) concentration, but NH4 concentration decreased linearly (P < 0.0001) directly related to the decreased CP ruminal degradability. Increasing levels of DDGS inclusion in a high concentrate diet reduce the CP ruminal degradability, without changes in total CP digestibility, what indicates a change of the site of digestion.
186 The effect of breeding program on cow maintenance requirement and efficiency of calf growth
Authors: Andresen Claire , Wiseman Aksel , McGee Adam , Lalman David
Published: July 2019

With genetic tools available today, it is possible to select for traits within breed to achieve similar production phenotypes. Our hypothesis was that biological efficiency of preweaning calf growth would be improved with crossbreeding when dams were selected for similar mature frame size, weight, growth, and milk production. The objective of this study was to determine maintenance energy requirements and efficiency of calf growth through weaning for Angus and Hereford x Angus crossbred cows selected for similar mature BW, growth, and milk production potential. Fifty-nine Angus (n = 32) and Hereford x Angus (n = 27) cow/ calf pairs were assigned to four pen replicates per breed. Cows and calves were limit-fed for a 21-d adaptation period followed by an 84-d experimental period to achieve BW and BCS stasis. Calves did not have access to cow’s feed and daily calf feed allotment was adjusted biweekly to provide 1.25% of previous week’s mean BW. There were no differences due to breed in cow hip height, BW, milk yield (P > 0.31),or cow maintenance energy requirement (P = 0.54). Milk from Hereford-sired cows was slightly more concentrated in energy (P = 0.05) and Hereford-sired cows had greater BCS and ultrasound rib fat and rump fat (P < 0.05) throughout the experiment. Calves from Angus dams were heavier (P 0.01) at the initiation of the experiment, although there were no differences in ADG, final BW, or adjusted weaning BW (P ≥ 0.24). Efficiency of calf growth was not different when expressed as calf BW gain to calf feed and milk energy consumed or as cow/calf pair feed intake or energy intake per unit of calf BW gain (P ≥ 0.31). While the crossbreeding system did not improve biological efficiency of calf growth, more research is necessary to determine if increased cow BCS is advantageous
194 Libido and semen quality in intact and altered (short scrotum and castrated) post-pubertal male dairy sheep lambs
Authors: O’Brien Dahlia , Wildeus Stephan , Schoenian Susan , Semler Jeff , David Gordon , Bennett Mary Beth , Anderson Chris , Travis Ashley
Published: July 2019

Short-scrotum (induced cryptorchid) rams can retain growth and performance characteristics of intact-rams while making them sterile and facilitating co-grazing with ewe-lambs. East Friesian x Lacaune male lambs left intact (n = 19; IN), rendered short-scrotum (n = 17; SS) or neutered (n = 25; WE) by 10 d of age, were used to evaluate libido and semen quality at 7-mo old. Lambs were managed as one group on a forage-based diet supplemented with a grain mixture (barley and soybean meal at 0.7 kg/d). Four CIDR-treated estrus-induced ewes were placed two/pen in adjacent 2.5x2.5 m pens for libido testing. Males were introduced individually to ewe pens for 5 min and reproductive behaviors recorded (anogenital sniffs, foreleg kicks, flehmen, false mounts, and service). Semen was collected from 6 random IN and SS lambs via artificial vaginas using estrus-induced ewes as teasers. Volume was recorded, and ejaculate extended in milk/egg yolk, packaged into straws, and stored at 5°C for analysis with a CASA system the following day. Behavior measurements were compared between types using PROC GLM. Ejaculate characteristics are presented as mean±SD due to insufficient sperm concentrations of SS ejaculates. Anogential sniffs, foreleg kicks, and mounts were similar in IN and SS, and higher (P < 0.05) than in WE (7.44 and 6.34 vs. 4.76; 1.72 and 1.60 vs. 0.17; 1.78 and 2.05 vs. 0.22; respectively). Number of services were higher (P < 0.001) in IN than SS (1.11 vs. 0.53), but time to service (112 sec) was not different. Ejaculate volume was similar in IN and SS (0.51 mL), but SS ejaculates were essentially devoid of sperm. Ejaculates from IN lambs had 0.69x109±0.48 x109 sperm, with 68.9±12.5% progressive motility, 81.8±6.1% viability and 87.1±6.1% morphologic normality. Ram lambs rendered short-scrotum by 10 d of age had reproductive behavior similar to intact post-pubertal rams, but ejaculate characteristics showed them to be sterile
44 Comparison of physiological responses to exercise in horses on a conditioning regimen versus inactive horses receiving a yucca and fenugreek dietary supplement
Authors: Miller Rachel , Bedore Jessica Suagee , Thompson Kelsey , McFarland Lynsey , Thomson Timber , Stutts Kyle , Anderson Mark , Wagner Ashley , Girard Ivan
Published: July 2019

Yucca and fenugreek are purported to reduce inflammation and improve metabolic response to exercise. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of a dietary supplement (DigestaWell NRG) in unconditioned horses completing an exercise challenge test. In this study, 10 unfit horses were assigned to receive exercise (EXC; n = 5) or the dietary supplement (SUP; n = 5). Horses assigned to EXC were ridden daily at a walk, trot, and canter. Horses assigned to SUP were ridden once per week at a walk and slow trot, but received no other exercise. Horses underwent a 14-min standardized exercise test (5 min walk, 5 min trot, 4 min canter) prior to (Period1) and after a 4-wk treatment period (Period2). Heart rate, respiration rate, blood lactate concentrations, and thermal images of six muscle groups were obtained prior to, immediately after, and 2 hr post-test. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. During Period1, similar (P > 0.05) post-exercise increases in heart rate, respiration rate, blood lactate, and thermal images were observed regardless of treatment group. During Period2, SUP horses had lower (P < 0.001) lactate concentrations than EXC horses at 2 hr post exercise, and it is possible that these lower concentrations are responsible for lower peripheral temperatures. Infrequently exercised horses may benefit from yucca and fenugreek supplementation due to the observed effect of these herbs to reduce post-exercise lactate concentrations and peripheral temperatures.
49 Effects of Different Stages of Processing Newly Hatched Chicks on Body Temperature
Authors: Timbrook Tiffany , Hoefler William C , Rainey Malcolm
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of different stages of hatchery processing on body temperature of newly hatched chicks on seven-day mortality. To evaluate these effects, rectal body temperatures were taken from 10 chicks per broiler farm at hatching (hatcher) using a Fluke 52ii Thermocouple Thermometer. Additional chick body temperatures were taken in the separator and chick rooms. Measurements were taken for six consecutive weeks beginning in October (fall) and repeated in March (spring) and July (summer) to examine seasonal effects on processing. Since there was a significant (PoC) means will be reported by season. During the fall, chick temperatures at the sorter were higher (40.6, P.05) in chick temperatures between the hatcher and chick room (40.16 and 40.17) respectively. When chick temperatures in the spring were evaluated, chick temperatures at the sorter were higher (40.71, P.05) in chick temperatures between the hatcher and chick room (40.16 and 40.37) respectively. During the summer sampling period, there were no differences (P > .05) among the hatcher, sorter and chick room (40.02, 40.05, and 40.44, respectively). Based on the results from this study, the trend was for chick temperatures to be higher during the sorting process compared to the hatcher or chick room.
1 Using RFID in Animal Management and More
Authors: Brown-Brandl Tami M
Published: July 2019

Animal facilities are increasing in size while the availability of skilled workers is decreasing, making it difficult for farm laborers to ensure the health and well-being of all animals under their care. Systems that apply technology to the animal system can not only improve animal care, but also give researchers and engineers an understanding of the animal’s use of the facilities. This insight can lead to new engineering designs. In addition, these systems create an individual data stream that can be used to create unique animal phenotypes. Radio Frequency Identification is used in many different applications including store inventory, timing of races, attendee tracking, toll roads, and animal identification. There are different types of RFID systems each has unique attributes that create advantages or challenges to different situations. Both active and passive systems will be discussed, along with the three common passive frequency ranges: low frequency, high frequency, and ultra-high frequency. The advantages and disadvantages to each of the frequency ranges determine which type of system should be used for a given application. Typical uses of RFID tags include animal population tracking and animal data base monitoring. RFID systems have also been used for monitoring of animal activities such as eating and drinking behavior. Placement of the antennae and strength of the antenna field is critical to behavior monitoring. The behavior data streams have been used to determine potential illness, heat tolerance, and potential social interactions.
4 Effects of cooled floor pads and cooled drinking water on behavior of lactating sows under heat stress
Authors: Li Yuzhi , Lou Maria , Reese Michael , Buchanan Eric , Johnston Lee J
Published: July 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate whether cooled floor pads and cooled drinking water could alleviate negative impacts of heat stress on lactating sows. Sows (n = 32; parity=1 to 6) farrowed in individual stalls in two rooms. In the treatment room, a cooling pad (56 cm×56 cm×5 cm deep) was embedded in the floor of each stall where the sow’s shoulder or chest rested while lying. The pad and water in the drinker were cooled to about 16°C and 15°C, respectively. The control room was identical except cooling pads were not operating and drinking water was at room temperature. Room temperatures were controlled at 29.4°C (0700h to 1900h) and 23.9°C (1900h to 0700h) in both rooms. Sixteen focal sows (8 per room) were video-recorded during farrowing, and days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 after farrowing. Videos were viewed continuously to register birth time of each piglet. Number of drinking bouts and duration of each bout were registered for 2 h (1530h to 1730h) each video-recording day. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Number of piglets born was used as a covariate for analysis of farrowing behaviors. No significant difference was detected for litter size born (14.1 for control vs. 15.1 piglet/litter for treatment, SE=1.33; P = 0.61), still birth (0.6 vs. 1.1 piglets/litter, SE=0.28; P = 0.31), or birth interval (14.6 vs. 14.8 min, SE=1.78; P = 0.95). Frequency of drinking bouts (2.8 for control vs. 4.2 drinks/2h for treatment, SE=0.50; P = 0.12) and duration of drinking bouts (10.5 vs. 12.0 sec/bout, SE=0.84; P = 0.21) were not affected by treatment across observation days. However, cooled sows reduced rectal temperature (39.3 vs. 39.6 °C, SE=0.11; P = 0.04) compared to control sows, suggesting cooled sows may have experienced less heat stress. These results indicate that cooled floor pads combined with chilled drinking water could be effective in reducing heat stress in lactating sows
6 Effect of method of drying piglets at birth on rectal temperature over the first 24 hours after birth
Authors: Vande Pol Katherine D , Cooper Naomi , Tolosa Andres , Ellis Michael , Shull Caleb M , Brown Katie , Alencar Stephan
Published: July 2019

Piglets are born wet, and evaporation of that moisture decreases body temperature, increasing the mortality risk. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of 2 commercially-applicable piglet drying methods on rectal temperature over 24 h after birth. The study was carried out at a commercial sow facility using a CRD with 3 treatments: Control (piglets not dried); Desiccant (piglets dried at birth using a cellulose-based desiccant); Paper Towel (piglets dried at birth using paper towels). Piglets were weighed at birth and individually identified with a numbered ear tag. Rectal temperature was measured at 0, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 120, and 1440 min (24 h) after birth. Sows and litters were randomly allotted to treatments. Data were analyzed using a repeated measures model with PROC MIXED of SAS. Litter was the experimental unit and piglet was a subsample of the litter; the model included the fixed effects of treatment and repeated time, and the interaction. There was no effect (P > 0.05) of treatment on rectal temperature at birth, or at 10 min or 24 h after birth. The Desiccant and Paper Towel treatments had greater (P < 0.05) temperatures than the Control at all times of measurement from 20 to 120 min after birth. Piglets on the Desiccant treatment had greater (P < 0.05) temperatures than those on the Paper Towel treatment between 30 and 120 min after birth. In conclusion, drying piglets at birth with either a desiccant or paper towels increases rectal temperatures between 20 and 120 minutes after birth, with the greatest effect being for the desiccant. Further research is needed to compare other methods of increasing piglet temperature and to determine if drying of piglets impacts pre-weaning mortality. This research was funded by the National Pork Board.
14 Effect of implant status and non-hormone treated cattle status on sale price of beef calves-Superior Livestock Video Auction
Authors: McCabe Esther D , King Mike E , Fike Karol E , Smith Maggie J , Hill Kevin L , Rogers Glenn M , Odde Kenneth G
Published: July 2019

The objective was to determine the sale prices of beef calf lots enrolled in the non-hormone treated cattle (NHTC) program and those that received implants, sold through summer video auctions from 2010 through 2018. Data analyzed were collected from 67 summer livestock video auctions from 2010 through 2018. There were 40,941 lots of beef calves used in the analyses. All lot characteristics that could be accurately quantified or categorized were used to develop multiple regression models that evaluated the effects of independent factors on sale price each year using a backwards selection procedure. A value of P < 0.05 was used to maintain a factor in the final models. The NHTC program is a USDA-approved program created in 1999, when the European Union and the United States agreed to control measures for trade of non-hormone treated beef. By definition, these cattle could not receive growth-promoting implants. The percentage of lots enrolled in the NHTC program grew from 5.2% to 23.8% from 2010 through 2018 (Table 1). The largest increase was 8 percentage points from 2017 to 2018. For seven of the nine years, premiums were associated with NHTC lots. The added value for a lot of beef calves enrolled in the NHTC program ranged from $1.02/45.36 kg in 2013 to $4.04/45.36 kg in 2014. In the nine years of analysis, implant status did not result in price reduction in any year. While the percentage of NHTC lots grew, we did not see a corresponding decline in the value of implanted lots.
26 Defining a robust sow: How increases in sow productivity impact the biology of reproduction, lactation and body composition
Authors: See M Todd
Published: July 2019

Considerable emphasis has been placed on genetic selection for increased litter size, number of pigs weaned and quality and size of piglets weaned. Concurrently, selection goals have also focused on improved GF and kg of pork produced. Productivity of sows and the total U.S. pork production system has continued to improve annually. Data from USDA-ERS and summarized by the National Pork Board (2018) for the years 2001 to 2017 showed an annual linear increase of 0.12 pigs born (R2 = 0.95), pigs slaughtered per breeding animal increased 0.29 head annually (R2 = 0.92) and kg of pork produced per breeding animal showed an annual linear increase of 37.5 kg (R2 = 0.96). It has also been shown that overtime genetic selection, feeding programs and management have resulted in increased ADG, gain:feed and lean efficiency while changes in ADFI were not reported (Fix et al., 2010). Genetic improvement has increased the metabolic demand on sows requiring an increased focus on the management of sow weight and condition. These competing demands require today’s sow to be more robust, as an individual sow’s increased productivity can negatively influence body weight loss, body composition, follicle and oocyte development, and lactation yield.
28 The functional annotation of the sheep genome project
Authors: Murdoch Brenda M
Published: July 2019

Reference genomes for some agricultural animals have been available for almost a decade; however, the annotation of these genomes remain an ongoing process. As a result, a detailed understanding of gene and gene product regulation that impart biological traits and physiological systems remains elusive. Through the Functional Annotation of ANimal Genomes (FAANG) consortium, coordinated efforts of the international scientific community are addressing this deficiency. The overarching goal of the Ovine FAANG project is to generate comprehensive transcriptome and chromatin state data sets from a large variety of adult tissues to accurately map functional elements of the ovine genome. In total, 100 tissues were collected (snap & slow frozen) from Benz 2616, the new reference genome, Oar_rambouillet_v1.0. Three methods of RNA sequencing have been utilized to fully understand tissue specific gene expression profiles. Transcript sequencing using poly-A+ messenger RNA has been completed for 60 tissues, whereas small microRNA as well as long read Iso-Sequencing data have been generated in a subset of these tissues. To further complement the gene expression data and to identify active promoters and confirm transcription start sites, Cap Analysis of Gene Expression (CAGE) has been completed. Histone modifications are being examined through Chromatin Immuno-precipitation (ChIP) sequencing to define different regulatory features. We are capitalizing on the knowledge that H3K4me3 and H3K27ac are enriched at transcription start sites and H3K4me1 at enhancer sites of actively transcribed genes, whereas H3K27me3 represses gene transcription. To determine chromatin accessibility, ATAC-seq is being performed for the 60 highest priority tissues. DNA methylation assays, specifically whole genome bisulfite and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing, are being performed on these tissues. This project will provide the first detailed understanding of tissue-specific gene regulatory signals and gene products, imparting a greater understanding of the mechanisms for genome to functional phenotype variation within sheep.
31 Building a functional annotation of the equine genome
Authors: Petersen Jessica L , Finno Carrie J , Bellone Rebecca R , Burns Erin N , Kingsley Nicole B , Kalbfleisch Ted , MacLeod James N , Creppe Catherine , Miller Donald C , Antczak Douglas F
Published: July 2019

The molecular determination of complex traits related to animal production, health, and performance remains elusive. In response, an international effort (Functional Annotation of ANimal Genomes, or FAANG) was initiated with the goal of identifying functional elements of the genome across domestic animal species. Toward this goal, the equine FAANG community has developed a biobank of over 80 tissues, four fluid types, and nine microbiome samples collected from two adult Thoroughbred mares as a resource for functional annotation of the horse genome. Full clinical phenotyping and careful histologic evaluation was performed on each tissue to allow for correlation of any observed pathologies and cell composition with sequencing results. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of each horse is complete as is RNA-sequencing (mRNA and smRNA) and analysis from eight prioritized tissues (liver, lung, hoof lamina, heart, longissimus dorsi muscle, ovary, parietal cortex, and adipose) as well as from 30 additional tissues sequenced with support from members of the community (known as the “Adopt-a-tissue” initiative). All sequencing data are now publicly available. Chromatin shearing and antibody concentrations have been optimized for ChIP-seq to characterize the major histone modification marks (H3K4me1, H3K4me3, H3K27me3, H3K27ac) in the eight prioritized tissues and spleen. Data collection and analyses are nearly complete. Assays to identify genomic insulators denoted by CCCTC-binding sites are also underway as is optimization of ATAC-seq, to characterize open chromatin in select tissues. The biobank’s use has extended to include chromatin run-on and sequencing (ChRO-seq) assays allowing for a novel comparison with ChIP-seq peaks. Further extensions of the biobank include keratinocyte cell culture, centromere mapping, karyotype analyses, methylation profiles, and microbiome characterization. These data provide a valuable baseline of genome function in the healthy, adult Thoroughbred mare and will allow for an improved understanding of and continuing research on tissue-, developmental-, and disease-associated genome regulation.
47 Young Scholar Presentation: Meta-regression analysis to predict the influence of branched-chain and large neutral amino acids on growth performance of pigs
Authors: Cemin Henrique S , Tokach Mike D , Dritz Steve S , Woodworth Jason C , DeRouchey Joel M , Goodband Robert D
Published: July 2019

Excess of a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA), particularly Leu, may result in increased degradation of the others due to common catabolic steps. Moreover, large neutral amino acids (LNAA) and BCAA have common brain transporters. Therefore, excessive BCAA may decrease the absorption of AA that serve as precursors of neurotransmitters. We hypothesize that practical diets with high levels of feed-grade AA can potentially create BCAA imbalances and impact performance. A meta-regression was conducted to evaluate the effects of BCAA and their interactions with LNAA to develop prediction equations for ADG, ADFI, and G:F. Data from 25 papers for a total of 44 trials were recorded in a database. Diets were reformulated using NRC (2012) nutrient values. Amino acids were expressed on standardized ileal digestible basis. A step-wise manual forward selection was used to evaluate predictor variables. Predictors had to be significant (P < 0.05) as a single variable predictor and provide a BIC improvement of at least 2 points to be included in the model. Observations were weighted using the inverse of the squared SEM. The resulting predictor equations were: ADG, g = – 985.94 + (15.2499 × average BW (kg)) – (0.08885 × average BW × average BW) + (1.063 × Leu:Lys) + (20.2659 × Ile:Lys) – (0.1479 × Ile:Lys × Ile:Lys) + (9.2243 × (Ile+Val):Leu) – (0.03321 × (Ile+Val):Leu × (Ile+Val):Leu) – (0.4413 × Ile:Trp); G:F = 648.3 – (6.2974 × average BW (kg)) + (0.02051 × average BW × average BW) + (0.5396 × Ile:Lys) + (1.7284 × Val:Lys) – (0.00795 × Val:Lys × Val:Lys) – (1.7594 × Met:Lys); and ADFI, kg = predicted ADG/predicted G:F. The equations suggest that increasing Leu:Lys negatively affects ADG due to a reduction in ADFI and G:F. The addition of Val, Ile, and Trp, alone or in combination, has the potential to counteract the negative effects of high Leu on growth performance.
52 Young Scholar Presentation: Maternal supply of methionine during late-pregnancy alters in utero and neonatal development, hepatic one-carbon metabolism,and innate immune response in Holstein calves
Authors: Alharti A S , Loor Juan , Batistel Fernanda , Ballou Michael A , Parys Claudia , Pan X Y , Trevisi Erminio
Published: July 2019

Pregnancy and early life are critical periods of plasticity during which the fetus and neonate may be influenced by environmental factors such as nutrition. Objectives were to investigate if increasing methionine (Met) supply during late-pregnancy affects developmental, metabolic, and immune parameters of the calf at birth and during the neonatal period. Calves born to Holstein cows individually-fed a basal control (CON; 1.47 Mcal/kg dry matter [DM] and 15.3% crude protein) diet with no added Met or CON plus rumen-protected Met (MET; Mepron® at 0.09% of diet DM) during the last 28±2 d of pregnancy were used. Liver biopsies were harvested at 4, 14, 28, and 50 d of age and used for metabolomics via GS-MS and activity of hepatic 1-carbon metabolism enzymes. Blood for biomarker analyses and innate immune function assays was harvested at birth (before colostrum feeding), 7, 21, 42 and 50 d of age. Whole blood was challenged with enteropathogenic bacteria (E. coli 0118:H8), and phagocytosis and oxidative burst of neutrophils and monocytes quantified by flow cytometry. At birth, MET calves had greater (P≤0.05) body weight (BW, 44.1 vs. 42.1±0.70 kg), hip height (HH, 81.3 vs. 79.6±0.53 cm), and wither height (WH, 77.8 vs. 75.9±0.47 cm). Differences persisted through 9 wk of age, resulting in average responses of +3.1 kg BW, +1.9 cm HH, and+1.8 cm WH in MET compared with CON. Average daily gain during the 9 wk was (P<0.05) 0.72±0.02 kg/d in MET and 0.67±0.02 kg/d in CON calves. Despite similar rates of daily DMI, maternal supplementation with Met led to greater (P ≤ 0.05) overall hepatic concentrations of the 1-carbon metabolism intermediates adenosine, betaine, choline, glycine, and N,N-dimethylglycine in liver tissue. Among transsulfuration pathway metabolites, concentrations of cystathionine, cysteinesulfinic acid, hypotaurine, serine, and taurine were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in MET calves. There was a treatment × day effect for activity of betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT), methionine synthase (MTR) and cystathionine-beta-synthase (CBS) in liver tissue. Activity of BHMT and CBS increased in MET calves between d 4 and 14, with a peak at 28 d. Despite a linear increase from d 4 to 28, activity of MTR in MET calves was lower on d 4 and 50. Plasma concentrations of haptoglobin and activity of myeloperoxidase in both maternal groups increased (P ≤ 0.05) markedly between 0 and 7 d of age followed by a decrease to baseline at d 21 with responses being lower in MET compared with CON calves. In vitro phagocytosis in stimulated neutrophils was greater overall (P ≤ 0.05) in MET calves. Overall, data indicate that increasing the maternal supply of Met during late-pregnancy benefits calf growth in part through alterations in hepatic metabolism and innate immune response.