bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSIII-15 Standardized Amino Acid Digestibility and Protein Quality of Mealworm-Based Ingredients Using the Precision-fed Cecectomized Rooster Assay
Authors: Smola Meredith
Published: September 2022

Mealworms may serve as an alternative protein source for pet foods because of their high protein content. The amino acid (AA) content and protein quality of mealworm-based ingredients may vary depending on their composition and processing, however, so testing is required. Our objective was to measure the AA composition, AA digestibility, and protein quality of mealworm-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. The University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approved all animal procedures prior to experimentation. 12 cecectomized roosters (4 roosters/substrate) were randomly assigned to one of three test substrates: 1) whole buffalo mealworm meal (BMW); 2) defatted yellow mealworm meal (YMW); and enzymatically hydrolyzed mealworm powder (HYD). After 24 h of feed withdrawal, roosters were tube-fed test substrates. Following crop intubation, excreta samples were collected for 48 h. Endogenous loss corrections for AA were made by using 5 additional cecectomized roosters. All data were analyzed using SAS version 9.4. All substrates had high AA digestibilities, with all indispensable AA digestibilities being >90% with the exception of histidine (87.9-91.1%) and valine (77.9%-79.7%). AA digestibilities were not different among substrates. Digestible indispensable AA score (DIAAS)-like values were calculated to determine protein quality according to AAFCO nutrient profiles, FEDIAF nutritional guidelines, and NRC recommended allowances for adult dogs, adult cats, growing puppies, and growing kittens. In general, HYD had the highest and YMW had the lowest DIAAS-like values for most indispensable AA. Methionine (HYD; YMW) and tryptophan (BMW) were the first-limiting AA. Our results demonstrate that mealworm-based ingredients are high-quality protein sources. Further research in dogs and cats is necessary to confirm sufficient palatability and digestibility, but these data suggest that they will be valuable sources of protein for pet foods.
PSIII-12 Palatability of Hempseed Meal Pellets Compared to Mainstream Feedstuffs in Horses
Authors: Springer Ryon W , Cross Teighlor D , Mason Ashley C , Ciesynski Kallyn S , Esterl-Byrne Lillian F , Thorne Caitlan C , Guay Kimberly A , Wellmann Kimberly B , Jones Trinette N
Published: September 2022

When the 2014 and 2018 US Farm Bills legalized hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), increased farming created an abundance of hemp by-products. Hempseed meal (HSM) is a by-product of hempseed oil extraction. With increasing availability, hemp must be evaluated as a potential feedstuff for sustainable livestock systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the palatability of HSM as an equine feedstuff. The study used a modified 3x3 Latin Square design utilizing 3 mature geldings (G; 7.3 ± 2.5 yr) and 3 mature mares (M; 12.5 ± 6.5 yr) blocked by sex. Basal feed consumption and bucket preference was established during a washout period of 2 feedings/d over 3 days before each period. During each treatment period (3d) horses were offered either 500g of soybean meal pellets (SBM), rice bran pellets (RBP), or beet pulp pellets (BPP) in one bucket and 500g of HSM in a second bucket each feeding. Feed treatments were switched between bucket positions each feeding. Findings are presented as mean ± SEM. Data were analyzed using an ANOVA within R Statistical Program©. The study found that HSM consumption (351.2 ± 30.6g) did not differ with treatment (p = 0.63), bucket (p = 0.94), or sex (p = 0.67). HSM consumption was greater than SBM (237.7 ± 34.8g; p = 0.005) and BPP (37.0 ± 9.3g; p< 0.001) but was not different from RBP (299.1 ± 35.2g; p = 0.19). HSM consumption increased with each subsequent period (Period 1: 229.6 ± 33.4g; Period 2: 381.3 ± 27.1g; Period 3: 442.6 ± 17.2; p < 0.001). These findings indicate that HSM may be more palatable than SBM and BPP but similar to RBP. HSM consumption may continue to increase over time. HSM may serve as an acceptable replacement to more common feedstuffs used in equine rations.
PSIII-7 Evaluation of Maternal Selenium Supplementation and Plane of Nutrition During Gestation on the Neonatal Fc Receptor (Fcrn) in Lamb Intestinal Tissue
Authors: Guenther Maverick C , Hammer Carolyn J , Voigt Rachel A , Borowicz Pawel P , Neville Tammi L , Vonnahme Kimberly A , Redmer Dale A , Reynolds Lawrence P , Caton Joel S
Published: September 2022

Maternal selenium (Se) supply and plane of nutrition alter morbidity and mortality in lambs as well as 24-h serum IgG. The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) transports IgG across mucosal surfaces; however, its role in intestinal protection in the lamb is unknown. Additionally, the effects of maternal nutrition on offspring FcRn abundance has not been reported. The objective of this study was to evaluate intestinal FcRn abundance in lambs born from ewes fed differing levels of nutrition and Se. Intestinal tissues from two experiments (EXP1 n=71; EXP2 n=80) were used. Both experiments utilized a 2x3 factorial design. Main effects included Se supplementation [adequate (9.5 or 11.5 μg/kg of BW in EXP1 or EXP2; respectively) or high, (81.1 or 77.0 μg/kg of BW in EXP1 or EXP2; respectively)] and plane of nutrition [60% (RES), 100% (CON), or 140% (HIGH) of requirements for both experiments]. Lambs were raised to 57 d or 21 d (EXP1 and EXP2; respectively). Intestinal tissues were collected and fixed in 10% NBF prior to paraffin embedding. Cross-sections were stained for FcRn and counterstained with DAPI. Areas of tissue cross-sections were captured with Plan-Apochromat 20x/0.8 NA lens using the tiling module of Zeiss. Images were analyzed using ImagePro Premiere software. Relative fluorescence within areas of interest was used as an indicator of FcRn receptor abundance. Data were analyzed using the general linear model procedure of SAS. Maternal nutrition tended (P≤0.07) to affect lamb intestinal FcRn abundance with CON having higher abundance compared to HIGH or RES (EXP1). There was no effect of maternal nutrition in EXP2 or maternal Se supplementation on intestinal FcRn abundance in lambs from either experiment (P≥0.56). These data show that maternal nutrition may influence offspring FcRn abundance and that further studies examining the contribution of lamb age are needed.
PSIII-1 Impact of low Levels of Tannin Supplementation on Enteric Methane Emissions and Performance in Organic Dairy Heifers
Authors: Schilling Ashley K , Newman Lauren K , Kutz Mesa B , Clark Samantha M , Thompson Logan R , Stackhouse-Lawson Kim R
Published: September 2022

Condensed tannins are theorized to reduce enteric methane emissions by enhancing protein efficiency and decreasing ruminal fiber fermentation in ruminant animals. The objective of this study was to assess the viability of supplemented condensed tannins fed at increasing levels: 0% (CON), 0.075% (LOW), 0.15% (MED), and 0.30% (HIG) of dry matter intake (DMI). The study acclimation utilized 24 organic Holstein heifers, one GreenFeed emission measurement system, two SmartFeed Pro systems (C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD), and individual animal feeding stanchions. Twenty organic Holstein heifers (BW = 218.75 ± 16.78 kg) were selected based on acclimation and were stratified into treatment groups based on initial body weight and acclimation status. A 7-d covariate gas analysis was performed prior to the study to account for individual animal emission differences. Daily, heifers were offered 1 kg of starter calf feed and tannin in the individual feeding stanchions for 45-d and fed a basal TMR diet through the SmartFeed Pro systems. Statistical analysis was conducted in R with the fixed effect of treatment and pre-trial emission rate as a covariate. Daily methane production ranged from 141 to 152 g methane (CH4)/day between treatments. No significant difference was observed between treatments for daily methane production (P=0.53), methane yield (g CH4/ kg DMI; P=0.82), or emission intensity (g CH4/kg of body weight gain; P=0.62). Similarly, a treatment effect was not observed for DMI (P=0.95), average daily gain (ADG) (P=0.50), or feed efficiency (P=0.36). However, DMI and ADG continued to increase throughout the study, suggesting that the supplemental tannin did not negatively impact animal performance. The results of this study would not indicate that low levels of tannin supplementation alter CH4 emissions in organic Holstein heifers.
PSIV-A-5 Comparison of Left vs Right Body Composition Endpoints in Beef Cattle Using Carcass Ultrasound
Authors: Jesko Noah P , Tennant Travis C , Lawrence Ty E , Perkins Tommy L
Published: September 2022

Feedlot cattle (n = 50) were ultrasounded to compare ultrasound vs carcass measurements, and to test the hypothesis that the left and right side of an individual animal are not statistically different during the Ultrasound Guidelines Council (UGC) Carcass Certification live animal exam at West Texas A&M University (WTAMU). Cattle (steers, heifers and bulls) represented a variation in breed types. A UGC certified technician scanned the cattle at the WTAMU Research Feedlot on their right side. The following day, the same technician scanned animals on the left side. Carcass ultrasound measurements included 12-13th ribeye area (REAU), subcutaneous fat thickness (FTU), intramuscular fat percentage (IMFU) and rump fat thickness (RFU). Carcass measures included 12-13th ribeye area (REAC) and fat thickness (FTC) along with marbling score (MS). Correlations between REAC and REAU were 0.83 for the left side and 0.80 for the right side, correlations between REAC left vs right were 0.94 and REAU left vs right were 0.77 (P < 0.01). A minor difference (2.27 cm2) in left vs right sides of REAC (P = 0.04) was detected. A larger difference (4.03 cm2) in left vs right REAU (P < 0.01) was noted; REAC right vs REAU right also differed (P < 0.01) by 8.13 cm2 with REAU being larger. No differences were observed between FTC left vs right (P = 0.26), FTU left vs right (P = 0.94) or FTC right vs FTU right (P = 0.15). A difference was detected between the FTC left and FTU left (P = 0.01). Correlations between REAU/REAC, FTU/FTC, and IMFU/IMFC were all significant (P < 0.05). These data present strong correlations between ultrasound and carcass traits, as well as the point that one side of an animal should be scanned as opposed to another side.
PSIV-A-1 Assessment of Equine Acclimation to new Management Using non-Invasive Metrics
Authors: Baxley Bethany , Anderson Nichole C
Published: September 2022

Horses experience stress during transportation, handling, and changes to the environment which result in negative welfare for the animal. Finding valid methods to measure stress non-invasively can assist in understanding equine welfare. Our objective was to investigate equine stress to a new environment through non-invasive measures. We hypothesized that horses’ stress would decrease over time with repeated exposure to a single handler and novel holding stock. Seven horses were introduced to a novel farm with a week of acclimation to their stall to serve as their baseline. Blink rate, thermal imaging, and salivary cortisol were collected in the stall and again in the stock on days 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, and 28 with d 1 being one week following arrival to the farm. Blink rate was counted for three minutes, then eye temperature of the left eye was taken using thermal imaging, and lastly salivary cortisol was collected using cotton swabs introduced into the horse’s mouth for 30 seconds on each side. Using linear regression, we found that blink rate decreased by 1.7 blinks for every day of handling (P = 0.001). For every degree of eye temperature in the stall, stock eye temperature increased 0.28 degrees Celsius showing that stress was potentially higher in the stocks (P = 0.043). Additionally, eye temperature in the stock increased by 0.09 degrees Celsius for each day of handling (P < 0.01). There were no differences found in salivary cortisol (P = 0.43). In conclusion, blink rate decreased but eye temperature increased over time, creating conflicting outcomes. Further studies are needed to validate the non-invasive measures of stress and their implications for horse welfare in new environments.
PSIV-A-13 Estimation of Nellore Genetic Contribution Over Certified Angus Beef Sold in Brazil
Authors: de Nunes Cris Luana Castro , Silva Fabyano Fonseca e , Veroneze Renata , de Duarte Marcio Souza , Guimarães Simone Eliza Facioni , Josakian Luiz Antônio , Ventura Henrique Torres , Chizzotti Mario Luiz
Published: September 2022

Meat traceability and certification increase consumers’ confidence in making purchasing decisions. In Brazil, certified Angus beef follows specific regulation, which requires a minimum of 50% of Angus genome in its breed composition to be commercialized as certified Angus beef. Because the majority of the beef produced in Brazil is Nellore-based, the objective of this study was to estimate the Nellore genetic contribution over certified Angus beef sold in Brazil using genetic traceability. Two hundred sixty-one certified Angus ribeye steaks were obtained from four different brands in commercial establishments. DNA extraction and genotyping were performed for each sample. Genotype data from purebred Angus and Nellore were also available, generating three datasets: meat samples, Angus, and Nellore. Samples and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers with call rate lower than 0.90 and duplicated samples were excluded from the analysis for each group. Thus, 75,242 SNPs and 99 samples were unique and remained in the meat sample group. For the genotyped reference groups, Angus had 34,586 SNPs and 71 samples while Nellore had 743,665 SNPs and 1,931 samples. The software Admixture were used for the genetic composition prediction using only SNPs in common across the three groups (29563 SNPs). On average, meat samples presented 57% and 43% of Angus and Nellore genome composition, respectively, with proportions ranging from 28% to 87% of Angus genome. Additionally, a principal components analysis showed a clear separation between Nellore and Angus population, whereas the evaluated meat samples were clustered between the two groups. In conclusion, certified Angus beef sold in Brazil have a great contribution of Nellore and some samples had lower Angus contribution than the expected by the certification.
PSV-A-9 Reduction of Salmonella Reading Using a Dairy-Originated Probiotic Bacterium, Propionibacterium Freudenreichii in Combination with a Live Attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium Vaccine in Growing Turkeys
Authors: Peichel Claire , Manjankattil Shijinarah , Dewi Grace , Akhtar Luna , Bina Peter , Creek Medora , Deniz Kerem , Hobbs John , Wichmann Elaina , Feist Emma , Schlosser Mikayla , Johnson Timothy J J , Noll Sally , Johny Anup Kollanoor
Published: September 2022

The emergence of unusual foodborne outbreak-causing Salmonella Reading (SR) in turkey production warrants rapid control measures. The objective of the study was to prevent the cecal colonization and internal organ dissemination of SR in growing turkeys using a dairy-originated probiotic bacterium Propionibacterium freudenreichii (PF), a live attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium vaccine (VC; AviPro Megan Egg), or their combination (PF+VC). In each experiment, 30, day-old poults were allocated into five groups: negative control (NC), SR control (SC), VC, PF, and PF+VC. Poults in VC and PF+VC were vaccinated as per recommendations. The PF and PF+VC were supplemented with 5 log10 CFU/ml of PF through drinking water until sample collection. All turkeys except in the NC group were inoculated with 5 log10 CFU/mL of SR. Seven days after inoculation, ceca, crop, liver, and spleen were collected for SR enumeration and enrichment. Homogenized cecal samples were diluted and plated on Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate (XLD) agar, and plates were incubated at 37oC for 24 hours. Liver, spleen, and crop samples were enriched in selenite cysteine broth and streaked on XLD plates for Salmonella identification after enrichment. Each group had 6 turkeys with 5 groups in each experiment (30 turkeys). The experiment was repeated 3 times (N=90). Data were analyzed using the PROC-MIXED procedure of SAS, and significance was detected at P< 0.05. All treatments were effective in reducing SR in growing turkeys. Compared to PC (4.0 log10 CFU/g), VC and PF+VC reduced SR by >3 log10 CFU/g, and PF alone resulted in a 1.7 log10 CFU/g reduction of SR (P< 0.05). The PF+VC was better than independent treatments in preventing SR dissemination to liver and spleen and crop survival. Results indicate that P. freudenreichii probiotic and S. Typhimurium vaccine effectively protect growing turkeys against the emerging outbreak-causing SR (USDA NIFA Food Safety & Defense #2020-67017-30787).
PSV-A-4 Novel Method to Identify Cattle Predisposed to Severe Cases of Bovine Respiratory Disease
Authors: Flores Victor V , Gifford Jennifer A , Wilson Blake K , Gifford Craig A
Published: September 2022

Respiratory disease in several species can range from subclinical infection to acute death. Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains the greatest economic challenge facing the beef industry. Histones are core proteins in chromosomal structure that, when released extracellularly, are cytotoxic and could contribute to exacerbated tissue necrosis during infection. Work in our laboratory demonstrated cattle suffering severe cases of BRD had limited capacity to protect against the cytotoxic effects of extracellular histones, however, the protective mechanism(s) remain unknown. Literature suggests components of the complement system interact with extracellular histones, but the effects on cytotoxic activity of histones is unclear. The objective of the current experiment was to evaluate protective capacity against extracellular histones and complement activity in feedlot heifers and subsequent disease outcomes. Serum samples were collected from 118 heifer calves (BW 229 ± 2.4 kg) at feedlot arrival and evaluated for protective capacity against histone toxicity employing an extracellular histone toxicity assay; and complement activity using a 50% hemolytic complement screening assay. Animals were retrospectively assigned to groups consisting of: calves not requiring treatment with antibiotics for BRD (NT; n = 80) or calves that died from BRD within 1 wk of entering the feedlot (DA; n = 9). Serum from DA animals was less (P < 0.001) protective than NT animals against histone toxicity. Complement activity of DA animals was reduced (P < 0.05) compared to NT animals. Using a ratio of both assays under stringent selection points, the positive predictive value was 75%, and negative predictive value was 94%. Results indicate that cattle predisposed to severe cases of respiratory have impaired complement activity presumably contributing to impaired protective capacity against histone toxicity. Analyzing these functional pathways may provide a novel selection tool against cattle predisposed to severe cases of BRD.
PSV-A-5 One-Carbon Metabolite Supplementation Influences Pancreatic α-Amylase Activity and Protein Concentration in a Dose-Dependent Manner in Beef Heifers
Authors: Trotta Ronald J , Freetly Harvey , Cushman Robert A , Oliver William , Lindholm-Perry Amanda , Caton Joel S , Ward Alison K , Crouse Matthew S
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate different combinations of one-carbon metabolites [OCM: rumen-protected methionine (RPM), rumen-protected choline (RPC), folate (FA), vitamin B12 (B12)] on pancreatic and jejunal carbohydrase activity at d 14 of the estrous cycle in beef heifers. Thirty Angus heifers were fed a high-roughage diet and assigned to treatments: 0% RPM + 0 g/d RPC + saline injection (0XNEG), 0.08% RPM + 60 g/d RPC + saline injection (0XPOS), 0.08% RPM + 60 g/d RPC + 80 mg FA + 5 mg B12 (0.5X), 0.08% RPM + 60 g/d RPC + 160 mg FA + 10 mg B12 (1X), or 0.08% RPM + 60 g/d RPC + 320 mg FA + 20 mg B12 (2X). Dietary treatments were fed for 14 d and FA and B12 injections were given on d 0 and 7 of the estrous cycle with tissues collected on d 14. The effect of RPM+RPC supplementation was evaluated using a contrast statement comparing 0XNEG vs. others. Polynomial contrasts were used to determine effects of FA+B12 dose. Protein concentration and carbohydrase activities of the pancreas and jejunum were not influenced (P≥0.21) by RPM+RPC supplementation. Pancreatic protein concentration responded cubically (P< 0.01) to FA+B12 dose where pancreatic protein concentration was lesser for 0.5X compared with other treatments. Likewise, pancreatic α-amylase activity responded cubically (P< 0.01) to increasing FA+B12 dose because pancreatic α-amylase activity was lesser for 0.5X (182 U/g) compared with 0XPOS (350 U/g), 1X (347 U/g), and 2X (412 U/g). Jejunal protein concentration and maltase and glucoamylase activities were not influenced (P≥0.29) by FA+B12 dose. Jejunal isomaltase activity tended to decrease linearly (P=0.07) with increasing FA+B12 dose. These findings suggest that the balance of different OCM could be important for regulation of pancreatic protein turnover and α-amylase activity. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
PSV-A-7 Quality Assessments of Sperm from Gnrh-II Receptor Knockdown (KD) Boars
Authors: Ross Caitlin E , Mills Ginger A , Desaulniers Amy T , Lents Clay A , White Brett R
Published: September 2022

Pigs are the only livestock species encoding functional proteins for both the second form of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-II) and its receptor (GnRHR-II). Previously, we determined that GnRHR-II localizes to the connecting piece of ejaculated sperm, whereas GnRH-II is present within seminal plasma, suggesting an autocrine/paracrine interaction influencing porcine sperm function. To examine the GnRH-II/GnRHR-II system further, we produced a swine line with reduced endogenous expression of GnRHR-II (GnRHR-II KD). Therefore, our objective was to assess sperm quality of ejaculates collected from GnRHR-II KD (n = 3) and littermate control (n = 3) boars. Semen was extended (37.5 x 106 sperm/mL) in Androstar Plus and subjected to flow cytometry (Kuster Research and Consulting, Inc.; Atkinson, IL). Assays measured DNA compaction, membrane fluidity and viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial depolarization, and morphology. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS; the model included ejaculate as the experimental unit and line as a fixed effect. DNA compaction, membrane fluidity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial depolarization, and morphology were not statistically different between lines (P > 0.05). However, the percentage of sperm with a viable (intact) plasma membrane was reduced in GnRHR-II KD boars (87.4 ± 0.8%) compared with controls (89.6 ± 0.8%; P < 0.05). Although differences did not reach significance, DNA compaction (a measure of sperm chromatin integrity when undergoing acid stress) was doubled and mitochondrial depolarization (reflective of mitochondrial function) was 11% greater in sperm from transgenic males relative to littermate controls, indicating that GnRHR-II KD sperm are more susceptible to environmental stressors and have altered energy production. Thus, these initial data suggest disruptions in the function and fertilizing capacity of GnRHR-II KD sperm, implying that GnRHR-II may represent a potential biomarker for boar fertility. Supported by USDA/NIFA AFRI (2017-67015-26508) and Hatch Multistate (NEB-26-244) funds. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
PSII-A-4 Effects of Beef Cattle Breed Type and Steroid Hormones on Proliferation Rates of Bovine Satellite Cells
Authors: Brown Bailee , Motsinger Laura A , Reichhardt Caleb C , Murdoch Gordon K , Murdoch Brenda M , Garcia Matthew D , Thornton Kara J
Published: September 2022

As the population increases, it is necessary to improve the sustainability of beef production. Bos indicus (BI) cattle are better adapted to nutritional stress, consume less water, and are better able to withstand thermal stress when compared to Bos taurus (BT) cattle. Additionally, anabolic implants, which typically contain the steroid hormones trenbolone acetate (TBA) and/or estradiol (E2), are commonly administered to beef cattle in the U.S. to improve production. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of cattle breed type and steroid hormones on proliferation of primary bovine satellite cells (BSC). Primary BSC were isolated from the Semimembranosus muscle of Angus (AN; n=2; 100% BT) and Santa Gertrudis (SG; n=2; 19% BI, 81% BT) yearling backgrounded steers and cultured. After the cells reached 70% confluency, cultures were treated with 1% fetal bovine serum (control), 10 nM TBA, 10 nM E2, or 10 nM TBA and E2 and proliferation rates were compared to control cultures. No treatment x breed interaction (P=0.17) was observed. Cultures from AN steers had increased (P=0.007) proliferation rates compared to cultures from SG steers. Steroid hormones increased (P=0.08) proliferation rates, regardless of breed. However, based on this preliminary data, trends are indicating that a breed*treatment interaction is present such that BSC isolated from AN steers are more responsive to treatment than BSC isolated from SG steers. Additional research needs to be completed to determine whether this interaction is still present once more replicates are completed, whether different hormone concentrations affect BSC from cattle of different breed types, and/or the effects of hormone treatment and breed type on BSC relative to differentiation and protein synthesis rate.
PSII-A-1 A Preliminary Study Examining Supplement and Medication Use in Rodeo Horses
Authors: Jenson Jake A , Hammer Carolyn J , Young Jennifer M
Published: September 2022

Dietary supplements and prescription medications are widely used in the horse community. Many equine governing organizations have guidelines and regulations related to supplement and medication use in performance horses. Prior surveys have focused on supplement and medication use in the horse show industry, while little data has been published regarding their use in horses competing in rodeos. Therefore, the purpose of this survey was to understand owner-reported supplement and medication use in rodeo horses. The Qualtrics-designed survey consisted of 36 questions pertaining to owner and horse demographics, as well as supplement and medication types administered to individual horses. Survey links were distributed via email and social media outlets. Responses were collected for owner’s self-selected main competition horse. Descriptive and correlation analyses were performed with SAS. There were 189 complete responses from competitors in 24 different states with the largest frequency of responses from the midwestern United States (84.5%). The majority of horses fell between the age groups of 11-15 (38.1%) and 6-10 (34.4%). The predominant event was barrel racing (82.5%). The majority (56.1%) of owners reported using both dietary supplements and medications while 26.9% used dietary supplements exclusively and 6.9% used injectable/inhaled/topical medications exclusively. Horse age tended to be negatively correlated with number of supplements used being greater for horses of a younger age (r2=-0.12; p=0.10). For dietary supplements and oral medications, products related to digestive health were used most frequently (73.25%) followed by products for joint support (63.7%) and respiratory health (38.85%). For injectable/inhaled/topical medications, products related to joint and bone health were most frequently used (66.93%) followed by respiratory health (45.16%) and quieting agents (17.74%). The supplements/medications provided addressed an average of 4.6 health categories per horse. This survey provided insightful information on the use of dietary supplements and medications currently used in rodeo horses in the USA.
PSII-A-11 Suppressing the Cxcl12-Cxcr4 Chemokine Axis at the Fetal-Maternal Interface During Implantation Results in Altered Expression of Inflammatory Cytokines in Ovine Placenta at Midgestation
Authors: Hughes Jillian M , Alderete Cael N , Ashley Ryan L
Published: September 2022

A proper balance of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines at the fetal-maternal interface is crucial for successful embryo implantation and placental formation (placentation) during early gestation. However, mechanisms controlling this inflammatory profile are not well characterized. The C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its receptor CXCR4 are expressed by fetal and maternal placental tissues and implicated in cytokine synthesis; roles of this axis during placentation are unclear. Using an in vivo sheep model, we demonstrated that suppressing CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling at the fetal-maternal interface during implantation results in dysregulated production of inflammatory cytokines in the placenta. The objective of the current study was to determine if the disrupted cytokine profile from suppressing CXCL12-CXCR4 signaling early in gestation would result in altered placental inflammatory profile at midgestation. On day 12 post-breeding, osmotic pumps were surgically installed in 37 ewes and delivered either CXCR4 inhibitor (AMD3100) at 1X dose, (n=8), 1.5X, (n=8), or 3X, (n=8) or saline (n=13) into the uterine lumen ipsilateral to the corpus luteum for 14 days. On days 90 and 135, placental tissues were collected, and maternal and fetal placenta components separated and analyzed. Gene expression for select cytokines were analyzed in the placenta using Real-time qPCR. On day 90, mRNA expression was significantly altered by AMD3100 treatment for tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 12 (IL-12), and transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) in fetal placenta. Expression of TGFB in fetal placenta was also altered by AMD3100 treatment compared to control on day 135 whereas IL-12 expression was significantly altered in maternal placenta on day 135. In conclusion, modulating CXCL12-induced actions is a novel approach to manipulating the fetal-maternal environment when most pregnancy losses occur. Increasing our understanding of CXCL12-induced actions controlling the placental inflammatory environment will hopefully reveal methods to improve reproductive success and fetal health in livestock.
PSIV-B-17 Effects of Weaning Method on Performance of Crossbred Beef Calves
Authors: Rook Whitney L , Rivera Daniel , Shelton Cody , Jones Richard C
Published: September 2022

English cross beef calves (n=115; BW = 245 + 40 kg) were used in the first of a three-year project to examine the effects of three weaning systems on post weaning performance. Cattle were stratified by age of dam and assigned to: 1) Drylot (DRY), 2) Pasture (PAST) or 3) Fenceline (FEN) weaning system. Calves in DRY were physically separated from their dams and fed a mixed ration across 4 pens. Calves in PAST were physically separated from their dams and assigned to 2 pastures consisting of Bermudagrass and fed a supplement. Calves in FEN were separated from their dams in adjacent pastures (n = 2) but maintained nose contact with their dams and fed a supplement. Pasture analysis from PAST and FEN were used to calculate the amount of supplement, so that total NE would be similar to that fed to DRY. Cattle were weighed weekly, until d 28, then weighed on d 56. Pen/pasture were the experimental unit, animal within pen was the random effect, data were analyzed using PROC Mixed. No differences (P > 0.10) were noted with BW at d 0, 7 or 28; however, both FEN and PAST had greater BW at d 15 (P = 0.05) and tended to have greater BW at d 21 (P = 0.06); nevertheless, by d 56, DRY had greater BW compared with FEN and PAST (P=0.03). Similarly, ADG tended to be greater in FEN and PAST from d 0-14 (P= 0.06) and from d 0-21 (P = 0.07). Overall ADG from d 0-56 was greater for DRY compared with PAST and FEN (P = 0.03). By design, cattle in DRY had more measurable DMI compared with PAST and FEN at all points (P < 0.0004). Cost of gain was greater (P= 0.02) with more economical gain associated with FEN and PAST compared with DRY (P = 0.02).
PSIV-B-18 Effects of Winter Hair Shedding Level and Service Sire Breed on cow-Calf Performance of a Spring-Calving Herd in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Hayes Emily G , Hurt Kaylee , Leite-Browning Maria L , Browning Richard
Published: September 2022

Over three years, the effects of winter hair shedding and service sire breed on cow-calf performance were assessed. Dexter cows were scored each spring for percentage of winter hair loss (0% = thick coat, 100% = smooth coat). Cows were exposed by natural service to Dexter (DEX) and Mashona (MAS) bulls in July. Calves were weighed at birth, 3.5 mo of age, and at weaning (7 mo). Based on hair scores in early June of each year, cows were classified as low shedders (LoS; 0 to 50%; n = 67) or high shedders (HiS; 51 to 100%; n = 130). Hair shed interacted (p < 0.05) with sire breed to affect pregnancy rates. HiS x MAS had a greater (p < 0.05) pregnancy rate than HiS x DEX (92.8 ± 3.8 vs. 60.9 ± 7.7%). Breeds did not differ (p > 0.05) within LoS. Pregnancy rate was greater (p < 0.05) for HiS than LoS (81.6 ± 4.8 vs. 63.1 ± 7.7%). Hair shed scores did not affect (p > 0.05) ADG. MAS calves had greater (p < 0.05) birth to 3.5 mo and birth to weaning ADG (0.77 ± 0.06 and 0.58 ± 0.05 kg/d, respectively) than DEX calves (0.64 ± 0.06 and 0.48 ± 0.05 kg/d, respectively). Across two complete production years, shedding group and service sire breed interacted (p < 0.05) for calf weight weaned per cow exposed. Within MAS, HiS weaned more weight (p < 0.05) than LoS (157.08 ± 24.27 vs. 48.47 ± 28.90 kg). Hair shedding was not important within DEX. Within HiS, MAS cows weaned more weight (p < 0.05) than DEX cows (157.08 ± 24.27 vs. 84.01 ± 24.01 kg). Service sire breed was not important within LoS. Hair shedding level and service sire breed influenced cow-calf performance.
PSXI-2 Circulating Mirnas as non-Invasive Biomarkers of Chronic Kidney Disease and Calcium Oxalate Uroliths in Felines
Authors: Gupta-Saraf Pooja , Tavener Selena K , Panickar Kiran S
Published: September 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), characterized by progressive loss of kidney function, is a major cause of mortality in cats. Another complication is the formation of calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths in the bladder and kidneys of cats, where inflammation has a role in its pathogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs which bind to the target mRNA to reduce its function. Depending on the target mRNA, they regulate transcription of several pro-inflammatory genes. We assessed the expression profiles of circulating miRNAs in blood, collected at the natural end-of-life in colony cats, in a retrospective study, in healthy (n=10; 5.9-16 yr), CaOx (n=10, 8.6-13.4 yr), and CKD (n=10; 8.3-15.4 yr). Circulating concentrations of creatinine, symmetric dimethylarginine, and blood urea nitrogen were significantly greater in CaOx and CKD cats compared with controls, indicating kidney dysfunction. Expression of miRNAs, measured by qRT-PCR, was analyzed using the ΔΔCt method and normalized to U6. There was a significant upregulation of miR-155 in CaOx stone formers compared with controls (p< 0.05). miR-155 is increased in the serum and urine of human patients with nephrolithiasis. miR-155 can also promote oxalate-induced renal oxidative stress by suppressing MGP expression. In humans, miR-155 concentrations are negatively correlated with cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, suggesting the involvement of inflammation in nephrolithiasis. However, miR-155 was downregulated in CKD compared with controls. miR-16 was also downregulated in CKD cats. Consistent with this, there is downregulation of both the miRNAs in human patients with Stage 4 CKD. Further, miRNAs downregulated in CaOx, but not in CKD, included miR-17, miR-19b, miR-27a, and miR-27b, whereas let-7a, miR-15a, miR-16, miR-29b, and miR-200a were downregulated only in CKD cats. Taken together, the profile of circulating miRNAs in CaOx and CKD cats may serve as important biomarkers in the initiation and progression of renal dysfunction in cats.
PSXI-4 Use of Foodomics Analysis to Biochemically Compare Different pet Food Ingredient Categories
Authors: Opetz Danielle , Beloshapka Alison , Oba Patrícia M , de Godoy Maria R , Swanson Kelly S
Published: September 2022

With an increased focus on pet health and longevity, ingredient nutritional quality and functionality is of great interest to the pet food industry. Characterizing the natural bioactive molecules present in different ingredient categories may identify those most likely to support health and/or manage disease. Over the past couple decades, high-throughput ‘omics’ technologies have been used to characterize the DNA, RNA, proteins, and metabolite profiles of dogs and cats. Similar technologies may now be applied to foods, a process referred to as ‘foodomics’. The objective of this study was to use foodomics analysis to characterize and compare various fruit-, vegetable-, tuber-, legume-, and grain-based ingredients. A total of 35 ingredients were subsampled, ground with liquid nitrogen, and sent to Metabolon, Inc. (Durham, NC) for untargeted high-throughput metabolomics analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Over 640 named bioactive molecules were identified in the samples. Principal component analysis showed that ingredient classes tended to cluster together and separately from others, with distinct fruit-, vegetable-, and grain-based clusters identified. Legumes clustered most closely to tubers and vegetables. Random forest analysis had a nearly perfect predictive accuracy and was used to identify molecules most influential in separating ingredient classes. This dataset has provided a foundation from which the pet foodomics field may grow and has identified molecule signatures specific to ingredient type. Consequent studies may identify bioactive molecules possessing beneficial properties (e.g., antioxidant, antibacterial) that may be used to target obesity or support digestive health, skin and coat health, and joint health. Such analysis may also identify ingredient-specific biomarkers that may increase food consumption accuracy.
PSX-A-8 Updating Pre-Existing Genetic Evaluations System to Evaluate High-Throughput Data in Purebred and Crossbred Beef Cattle
Authors: Lee Kristin , Munro Jasper , Ventura Ricardo V , Schenkel Flavio S , Voort Gordon Vander , Cánovas4 Angela
Published: September 2022

High-throughput technologies are available to aid producers in efficiently and sustainably raising many animals, including automated sensory technologies for phenotype measurement and genomic data. However, uptake of genetic selection by the beef cattle sector has been limited by segmentation of the industry. Therefore, easy to use genetic evaluations systems (GES) that can convert ‘big data’ into real-time and comprehensive results are needed, so that beef cattle producers can utilize the technologies that are becoming available to make accurate breeding decisions. The purpose of this study is to update a pre-existing purebred and crossbred beef cattle GES to become both flexible and efficient in its ability to evaluate high-throughput phenotypic data, and to assess the feasibility of including genotypes in a single-step genetic evaluation procedure (ssGBLUP). Firstly, computational operations required for the calculation of breeding values will be quantified and evaluated. A purebred and crossbred reference population will be assembled using data from Canadian beef breed associations purebred (n = 186,928) and commercial animals (n = 14,406). Multiple breeds will be considered (Angus, Charolais, Hereford, and Simmental), and multiple phenotypes analyzed (birth weight, weaning weight, yearling weight, and calving ease). Key component matrix operations with and without the use of Python Libraries (NumPy) will be evaluated. Computational performance of the different strategies will be compared, including CPU time, and memory allocation. Subsequently, a simulated ssGBLUP will be conducted using a population which mimics that observed in the preliminary analysis. Computational costs associated with the implementation of ssGBLUP will be compared to the existing GES. The results of this study will be directly applied to provide beef producers with the tools to improve the genetics of their own herds. This will facilitate the uptake of technology by the industry, thus increasing the economic value and sustainability of beef production.
PSXII-9 Application of Machine Learning Algorithms to Estimate Tropical Pasture Biomass Based on Satellite Images
Authors: Fernandes Marcia H , Fernandes Jalme , Reis Ricardo Andrade , Tedeschi Luis O
Published: September 2022

The proper quantification of forage allowance for ruminants in grass-based production systems has always been challenging. At the field scale, pasture management based on ground-level measurements, such as clipping or plate meter, is labor intensive and hampers the assessment of spatial and temporal variability. On the lookout for a solution, this study aimed to estimate marandu palisade grass forage mass based on satellite images using two machine learning (ML) algorithms, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The experimental area comprised Marandu palisade grass pasture (Brachiaria brizantha ‘Marandu’), summing 33 paddocks (42 ha), receiving or not N fertilization. Pastures were managed under continuous stocking to maintain grazing height fixed at 25 cm during the growing season, using the put-and-take methodology with young beef bulls. Field dataset collection (total forage mass and morphological composition) and satellite images were assessed from Dec/2015 to Mar/2019 during the growing or wet season. The satellite images (Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2) were downloaded from US Geological Survey (USGS, http://earthexplorer.usgs.gov). Six spectral bands (Bd) and five vegetation indices (VI, Table 1) were used as input variables to MLR and ANN models. Datasets were randomly divided into a training set (80%) and a testing set (20%). Analyses were run in Python 3 (version 3.7). ML models are generally data-driven and require a large amount of data for better performance, and the best accuracy was achieved by using all Bd and VIs as input variables for both models (Table 1). In general, ANN produced better estimates than MLR models. Bd+VI better predicted leaf mass than total forage mass. Our results show that remotely sensed observations, based on satellite images, are a promising and effective tool for tropical grassland monitoring and management under continuous stocking rates. São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) (grant ≠15/16631-5; 17/18750-7; 20/14367-7).
PSXII-10 Concordance between a Time-of-Flight Sensor and Plate Meter Method for Estimating Forage Mass
Authors: Gadberry Shane , Hess Tom , Moss N T
Published: September 2022

This project explored the use of a time-of-flight sensor (ToF) as an alternative to the plate meter (PM) for estimating forage mass. The ToF configuration included a single beam TFmini Plus LiDAR Module (Benewake Co., Haidian District, Beijing, China), an Arduino Uno (manufactured by Arduino S.r.l., Torino, Italy), and either a PC or cellular phone for datalogging transmitted serial values sent over a USB connection. The ToF configuration was attached to a utility vehicle drawn sled with a ground to sensor distance of 84cm. A reflective mat was attached to the sled that floated atop the forage canopy to create a height area to compensate for the narrow field of view of the sensor beam (≤ 5cm). Six comparisons were conducted between the ToF and PM including warm-season and cool-season forage stands. Both the ToF and PM were calibrated by clipping 10, 14, or 20 calibration squares each to a 5cm residual forage height followed by drying clipped forage at 55C. Calibration coefficient of determination ranged from 0.86 to 0.95 and 0.86 to 0.96 for ToF and PM, respectively. Pearson’s correlation and Lin’s concordance coefficients ranged from 0.45 to 0.95 and 0.36 to 0.92, respectively. While both the ToF and PM demonstrated a predictable relationship between their respective height measurements and clipped area forage mass, the concordance between the two methods was weak for some comparisons, likely due to within field sample point variation between the two methods. Further research is needed to better understand mat density, sampling intensity, and plant density and height on the potential use of the ToF as an alternative to the PM.
PSXII-14 Impact of Nitrogen Application and Intercrop Forage Species on Chemical Composition and Yield of Standing Corn and Intercropped Forages
Authors: Mengistu Genet , Lawley Yvonne , Ominski Kim , McGeough Emma J
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the impact of nitrogen (N) application rate and forage species of intercropped corn for potential grazing of beef cattle in late fall/early winter. A split plot design (4 replicates/treatment) was used at 2 experimental sites in Manitoba, Canada with 2 treatment factors: 1) N application rate as the main plot and 2) forage intercrop species as the sub plot. Nitrogen application rates were 45 kg N/ha and 112 kg N/ha. Forage species were: italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa), graza forage radish (Raphanus sativus), red clover (Trifolium incarnatum) and a mix of all 4 forages. Intercropped treatments were compared with corn only control treatments with no intercrop at both N rates. Plots were seeded in 2019 with corn from May 8-10 and intercrops seeded from June 17-25. Chemical composition of intercropped forages and corn were determined in early October. Averaged over sites and intercrop treatment, increasing N application increased (P< 0.004) CP of the intercrops from 20.5% (low N) to 22.3% (high N), with CP similar at both sites. On average, radish had the greatest CP (29%), clover least (13.2%), with the remaining crops intermediate (mean 21.7%). Corn CP increased (P< 0.01) with N application (6.6 to 7.5% averaged over treatments), with no effect of intercrop species. Intercrop TDN was not affected by N rate, with greatest concentrations observed in radish (68.2%), least in hairy vetch and red clover (53.6%) and intermediate in the mix and italian ryegrass (mean 60.2%). Dry matter yield for all intercrop and corn treatments were less than expected at both locations due to exceptional drought conditions. Intercrop treatment and its interaction with N rate did not impact corn yield. In conclusion, intercrop CP ranged from 12-29%, thus offering the potential to increase the feeding value of corn for overwintering cattle.