bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTIVENESS OF PROPIONIC ACID FOR PRESERVING ALFALFA HAY IN LARGE ROUND BALES
Authors: ATWAL A. S. , HESLOP L. C.
Published: March 2010

A propionic acid-based commercial mold inhibitor for high moisture hay was compared with an equivalent and a 10-fold higher concentration of propionic acid for preserving alfalfa hay in large round bales. When packaged, the percent moisture content (MC) of each of the five treatments was: CC1 (Control) 26.1, CT1 (commercial formulation equivalent to 0.03% propionic acid) 25.0, LPA1 (0.03% proprionic acid) 31.1, PA1 (0.3% propionic acid) 23.6 and PA0 (0.3% propionic acid) 17.8. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in MC among CC1, CT1 and PA1 treatments. The application of the commercial mold inhibitor (CT1 treatment) proved ineffective. This treatment, as compared to CC1 treatment, showed no significant (P > 0.05) effects on dry matter (DM) loss, cumulative degree-days (above 6 reference points from 35 to 65 °C), chemical composition, voluntary intake and digestibility of nutrients. Hay from PA1 treatment was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and significantly (P < 0.05) higher in energy digestibility than that from the CC1 and CT1 treatments. Although the maximal temperature was higher for PA0 hay than for PA1 hay, the PA0 hay cooled down sooner. The PA0 treatment was lowest (P < 0.05) in the cumulative degree-days above 35 °C, crude protein (CP), NDF, cellulose, NDF-N and acid detergent insoluble N; and highest (P < 0.05) in hot-water-insoluble N, digestibilities of DM, CP and energy. Because of very high initial MC, the LPA1 hay deteriorated very markedly and its DM loss was about twice of that for CCI hay. Key words: Propionic acid, alfalfa hay, digestibility, temperature of hay, large round bales
THE EFFECT OF FEEDING A DIET CONTAINING CANOLA MEAL ON THE INCIDENCE OF FATTY LIVER SYNDROME AMONG FOUR MATERNAL POULTRY MEAT BREEDER GENOTYPES TO 266 DAYS OF AGE
Authors: PROUDFOOT F. G. , HULAN H. W.
Published: March 2010

Performance data revealed that adult maternal meat breeders fed diets incorporating 15% canola meal experienced a significant increase in mortality attributed to Fatty Liver Syndrome (FLS) compared with maternal breeders receiving diets without canola meal. Dietary protein levels per se had no significant effect on the incidence of FLS (P > 0.05). Data to 266 d also provide useful information on general performance, particularly with regard to egg production, age at sexual maturity, feed efficiency, initial egg weight and egg specific gravity. Key words: Maternal, meat breeders, hens, canola meal, Fatty Liver Syndrome, poultry
EFFECTS OF CANOLA MEAL ON TISSUE TRACE MINERAL CONCENTRATIONS IN GROWING PIGS
Authors: KEITH M. O. , BELL J. M.
Published: March 2010

This experiment was conducted to determine if the availability of supplemental trace minerals would be reduced by canola meal (CM) in a cereal grain-based diet for growing pigs. Thirty-two barrows weighing 21.5–23.5 kg were allotted to four dietary treatments: barley-wheat, 2:1, supplemented with (1) soybean meal (SBM); (2) canola meal (CM)-source 1 (CM1); (3) canola meal-source 2 (CM2), all fed according to a controlled feeding schedule; or (4) the CM1 diet fed ad libitum. All diets were supplemented with minerals at levels recommended for 20- to 35-kg pigs. In pigs slaughtered at 57 kg, liver and pancreas zinc (Zn) concentrations (dry basis) were higher (P < 0.05) when the SBM diet was fed compared to the CM diets. Pigs fed CM1 diet by either feeding regime showed lower Zn concentrations than those fed CM2. Treatment effects on tissue concentrations of other minerals were minor. From 23 to 57 kg liveweight, pigs fed CM diets gained less (P < 0.05) than those fed a SBM diet under controlled feeding (0.78 vs. 0.86 kg d−1). Pigs fed CM1 diet ad libitum gained 0.87 kg d−1. These results could not be directly related to a mineral deficiency. Based on tissue Zn concentrations, it was concluded that the dietary Zn was less available from the CM diets compared to the SBM diet. Key words: Trace minerals, zinc, pigs, canola meal
EFFECTS OF CANOLA MEAL ON ABSORPTION AND TISSUE LEVELS OF TRACE MINERALS IN RATS
Authors: KEITH M. O. , BELL J. M.
Published: March 2010

The possibility that supplemental trace minerals (TM) might be less available in the presence of canola meal (CM) compared with other protein sources was investigated using growing rats fed a barley-wheat (BW) diet alone or with 20% added CM, soybean meal or ammoniated mustard meal for 28 d. A purified diet was used as a control diet. Femur Zn concentrations were lowest (P < 0.05) in rats fed the BW + CM diet (306 μg g−1femur ash) followed by the BW diet (329 μg g−1); both groups showed lower Zn levels than for all other diets (control diet 345 μg g−1). Plasma Zn concentrations were lowest (P < 0.05) in rats fed the BW + CM diet (1.07 vs. 1.35 μg mL−1 for control diet). Differences in concentrations of copper, iron or manganese in plasma and liver were minor. Apparent absorption of Zn from the BW and BW + CM diets tended to be less than from the other diets. Some differences were observed in weight gains and feed efficiency but were apparently unrelated to a TM deficiency. The results indicated that while dietary levels of copper, iron and manganese were adequate, there was evidence of a marginal deficiency of Zn particularly in the BW + CM diet, a result of reduced availability of supplemental Zn due to the CM in the diet. Key words: Trace mineral, zinc, canola meal, rat
OAC WINTRI TRITICALE IN DIETS OF GROWING SWINE
Authors: ADEOLA O. , YOUNG L. G. , McMILLAN I.
Published: March 2010

Two performance trials and two metabolism trials were conducted to evaluate the feeding value of two samples of OAC Wintri triticale for growing swine. The samples of triticale contained 15.5% (triticale A) or 10% (triticale B) protein on a dry matter basis. In trial 1, each sample replaced 0, 25, 50, 75 or 100% of protein from corn in a 15% protein (as-fed) corn-soybean meal diet. Diets had a constant soybean meal level and cornstarch was added as appropriate to make diets isonitrogenous. Each diet was fed to five individually penned pigs (average weight 22 kg). Forty-eight pigs were utilized in a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of triticale sample (triticale A or triticale B), dietary protein (15 or 17%) and percent corn replaced (0, 50 or 100%) in trial 2. Soybean meal in diets was adjusted as appropriate to obtain a 15 or 17% protein diet. Daily gain (P < 0.10) and feed consumption (P < 0.05) were greater for pigs fed triticale B than triticale A in both experiments. While feed efficiency was not different between the two samples of triticale in trial 1, triticale B had better (P < 0.01) feed efficiency than triticale A in trial 2. The corn-soybean meal diet promoted faster gains and higher feed consumption (P < 0.05) than the triticale A-soybean meal diet. As the level of triticale A in the diets increased, daily gain, feed intake and feed efficiency declined in both trials. Digestible and metabolizable energy values (kcal g−1) declined (P < 0.01) linearly as level of triticale in the diet increased. Dry matter digestibility declined (P < 0.01) as the level of triticale increased in trial 2 and as the level of triticale B in diets increased in trial 1. There was no change in dry matter digestibility as the level of triticale A in diets increased in trial 1. Biological value and net protein utilization were lower (P < 0.01) for diets containing triticale A than triticale B. Level of triticale in diets did not affect apparent protein digestibility, biological value and net protein utilization (P > 0.10) in either trial. In a soybean-meal-supplemented diet, the energy value of triticale relative to corn appears to be about 90%. Key words: OAC Wintri triticale, digestibility, energy, pigs, performance, protein
THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT NUMERATOR RELATIONSHIP MATRICES ON BREEDING VALUES ESTIMATED FROM MULTIPLE TRAIT BLUP
Authors: KEMP R. A. , WILTON J. W.
Published: March 2010

A numerator relationship matrix (Ac) due to sires and dams was compared with a numerator relationship matrix (Ai) due to sires and maternal grandsires in a multiple-trait-reduced animal model (MT-RAM). Best linear unbiased predictors of estimated breeding values (EBV) for 200-d weight (WW) and postweaning gain (PG) (gain from 200 to 365 d of age) were estimated from data simulating a beef cattle population. As expected, mean EBV and bias (EBV-BV) for both traits were not significantly affected by different relationship matrices. The mean variances of EBV with Ac were larger than those with Ai for both traits. The mean EBV variances were closer to mean BV variances with Ac compared to Ai, which is consistent with increased precision of EBV. Product-moment correlations of EBV and BV (accuracy of prediction) were not equal (P < 0.01) for Ac compared to Ai with WW or PG. The EBV using Ac were more accurate than EBV using Ai. The increased precision and accuracy of EBV from a MT-RAM with Ac would result in greater genetic progress in the population. Key words: Relationship matrices, estimated breeding values, MT-RAM
FIXED-INTERVAL CONDITIONED FEED INTAKE IN SWINE AND CATTLE
Authors: HAMMELL K. L. , HURNIK J. F.
Published: March 2010

An experiment was conducted to measure the influence of scheduled meal times on some behavior and production variables in beef cattle and swine. Ninety-six Yorkshire gilts in one experiment and 32 Hereford heifers in a second study were each housed in groups of four in pens equipped with individual electronic feedgates. The treatment (meal-fed) swine and cattle (T) had access to feed for 20 and 30 min, respectively, every 4 h. The control animals (C) had ad libitum access to feed. The meal-fed animals had to learn the initiation of a specified meal period through the use of a fixed-interval reinforcement schedule. Discriminative cues of a light and buzzer were used to facilitate the conditioning process. The behavioral data indicated that both species were able to be conditioned to the scheduled meal periods by the second day of the trial. The meal-feeding schedule with swine caused the treatment pigs to spend more (P < 0.05) time in walking activity (T = 124 min, C = 98 min) and less time resting (T = 1164 min, C = 1210 min). The meal-feeding system caused the cattle to spend less time (P < 0.05) in eating activity (T = 135 min, C = 176 min) and more time standing (T = 409 min, C = 342 min). Both species preferred to spend the majority of their feeding activity during the day (66 and 60% for pigs and cattle, respectively). For both species no statistically significant difference was found between the two treatment groups for production variables, but there appeared to be positive trends in favour of the meal-feeding system in beef cattle. Key words: Swine, cattle, conditioning, meal-feeding, feed intake
OPERANT HEAT DEMAND OF PIGLETS HOUSED ON FOUR DIFFERENT FLOORS
Authors: MORRISON W. D. , BATE L. A. , McMILLAN I. , AMYOT E.
Published: March 2010

Four groups of six 28-d-old piglets (three male, three female) were assigned in a Latin square design to each of four floors, bedded concrete, bare concrete, perforated metal or raised rubber-coated metal. Each pen was equipped with a microswitch which, when pushed, turned on three 250-W infrared lamps suspended 42 m above the floor. Each group of piglets remained on each floor for 48 h and the same groups were used for a second replicate. This approach was repeated with different groups of piglets at temperatures of 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24 °C. Behavior regarding activation of the microswitch was monitored by the use of a video cassette recorder. Light at 180 lx was provided continuously. On bedded concrete, piglets demanded approximately 3 min less heat per hour (P < 0.05) than on any other floor and on perforated metal demanded approximately 3 min more heat per hour (P < 0.05) than on any other floor. Supplemental heat on bare concrete was similar to that of raised rubber-coated metal. From the results it was established that the effective environmental temperature on bedded concrete is 3 °C warmer than that for bare concrete or raised rubber-coated metal and 6 °C warmer than perforated metal. Piglets showed diurnal variation in heat demand. Key words: Piglets, operant, thermal regulation
HERD OF ORIGIN EFFECTS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF STATION-TESTED BEEF BULLS
Authors: AMAL S. , CROW G. H.
Published: March 2010

Nine years (1976–1984) of performance data from the Manitoba Bull Testing Station, Douglas were used to investigate herd of origin effects on the 140-d growth performance of bulls. Two data sets were analyzed: the Angus and Hereford (AH) data set contained records on 1649 bulls; the Charolais and Simmental (CS) data set contained records on 1786 bulls. The mixed model for analysis of weight, gain and backfat data included year-breed as a categorical fixed effect, age of bull as a fixed covariate, and herd and sire as random effects in a hierarchial classification. Herd, sire and error components of variance were estimated for weights and gains of bulls during the test as well as for backfat which was measured at the end of the test. At the start of the test 39 and 33% of the variation among bull weights was due to herd of origin effects for the AH and CS data sets, respectively. This proportion dropped gradually to 30 and 22% at the 112-d weighing for the AH and CS data sets, respectively, and remained at these levels for the 140-d weights. For the cumulative 140-d gain on test only 15 and 16% of the total variation were attributed to herds for the AH and CS data sets, respectively. For periodic gains (gains made between two adjacent weighings, usually 28-d intervals), herd of origin was a major source of variation for the 28-d pretest adjustment period (45 and 34% for the AH and CS data sets, respectively), but was of minor importance in subsequent periods. For backfat, herd of origin was a significant though small source of variation. The nature of the herd of origin variation (genetic or environmental) could not be discerned from this analysis though it was evident that a portion of the herd of origin variation was temporary environmental in nature since its magnitude decreased as the test progressed. Assuming that a portion of the herd of origin variation was permanent environmental in nature for both weight and gain and given that herd of origin variation was lower for gain than for weight it is recommended to emphasize test gain as opposed to weight in the comparison of bull performance. Key words: Beef cattle, test station, herd of origin, heritability, growth, backfat
EFFECTS OF BIRTH TYPE, AGE OF DAM, ENTRY WEIGHT AND PRESTATION GAIN ON TEST STATION RESULTS OF RAM LAMBS
Authors: BASARAB J. A. , SHRESTHA J. N. B. , PARKER R. J.
Published: March 2010

Records on 1820 Suffolk ram lambs from seven test stations were studied to determine the effect of birth type of lamb, age of dam, entry weight and prestation gain on test results at Canadian Record of Performance (ROP) Test Stations. Rams born as singles were heavier (P < 0.05) at station entry and gained more (P < 0.05) from birth to station entry (prestation gain) than rams born as twins or triplets, whereas twins and triplets were similar in this respect (P > 0.05). Weight on test and gain during adjustment period of rams born as singles, twins or triplets reflected these differences. Daily gain of rams on test was not influenced by type of birth. Age of dam did not affect entry weight, prestation gain, daily gain in the adjustment period, on-test weight or daily gain. The relationship between entry weight (EW) and average daily gain on test (ADG) was curvilinear and is described by the equation[Formula: see text]The 95% confidence limits of entry weight for maximum ADG were 16.2–39.8 kg. The relationship between prestation gain (PG) and ADG was also curvilinear[Formula: see text]The 95% confidence limits of prestation gain for maximum ADG were 0.27–0.71 kg d−1. Ram lambs with entry weights and prestation gain outside the 95% confidence limits had lower ADG. Test station results of ram lambs were not affected by birth type of lamb, age of dam, entry weights between 16 and 40 kg and prestation gains between 0.27 and 0.71 kg d−1. Key words: Suffolk, birth type, age of dam, entry weight, prestation gain, station performance
THE EFFECT OF WHOLE SUNFLOWER SEEDS ON THE FLOW OF FAT AND FATTY ACIDS THROUGH THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT OF CANNULATED HOLSTEIN STEERS
Authors: WHITE B. G. , INGALLS J. R. , SHARMA H. R. , McKIRDY J. A.
Published: March 2010

Four cannulated (rumen, abomasum and ileum) Holstein steers were randomly allotted to four experimental diets in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Diets contained (1) 4% sunflower oil (SFO); (2) 10% whole sunflower seeds (WSS); (3) 20% WSS and (4) 10% canola meal (LFCM). Dysprosium was used to calculate the flow of the particulate digesta through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The ratio of rumen acetate to propionate was increased (P < 0.05) when the LFCM diet was fed compared to when the three oil- or seed-containing diets were fed; there were no differences (P < 0.05) among the oil- or seed-containing diets. Apparent output of fat from the rumen compared to dietary intake was increased (P < 0.05) for all diets except SFO. Differences in fatty acid flow among the four diets diminished (P < 0.05) as the fat flowed through the GI tract. There was a decreased (P < 0.05) output of linoleic acid and an increased (P < 0.05) output of stearic and palmitic acids in the rumen compared to the dietary intake. The three oil diets had a higher (P < 0.05) flow of octadecanoic acids through the GI tract than the LFCM diet, and only the flow of stearic acid through the rumen differed (P < 0.05) among the three oil diets. Apparent digestibilities of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and energy were not different (P < 0.05) among the four diets. Fiber digestibility was unaffected by the increasing fat levels. Fat digestion coefficients increased with increasing dietary intake of fat, and calculated true digestibility of sunflower oil was 83.4%. Key words: Sunflower seeds (whole), fatty acid flow, gastrointestinal tract (lower)
EFFECTS UPON NITROGEN UTILIZATION OF SODIUM BICARBONATE-INDUCED CHANGES IN ACID-BASE AND ELECTROLYTE BALANCE IN LAMBS
Authors: ROGERS M. V. , PHILLIP L. E.
Published: March 2010

Sodium bicarbonate was added at graded levels (0, 2, 4 and 6%) to a high concentrate diet (11% crude protein) consisting of two-thirds rolled barley and one-third corn silage, and offered to eight crossbred wether lambs (27 kg) according to a 4 × 4 double Latin square with four 10-d periods. The diets were offered twice daily, in equal portions at a restricted level of 75 g DM d−1 kg−0.75. After 5 d of adaptation to the diet, a 5-d collection of urine and feces was initiated. Samples of jugular blood were obtained for assessment of acid-base status and plasma electrolytes. Postprandial blood pH, blood bicarbonate and base excess values increased (P < 0.01) linearly with increasing levels of dietary NaHCO3; urine volume showed a similar response to dietary bicarbonate. Addition of NaHCO3 to the diet caused a linear (P < 0.01) decrease in plasma chloride and in urinary excretion of ammonia-nitrogen (P < 0.01); concentrations of K and Na in plasma were unaffected by NaHCO3 in the diet. There was a progressive but nonsignificant (P > 0.05) reduction in nitrogen retention in response to NaHCO3. However, at the 6% level of NaHCO3 inclusion, nitrogen retention was reduced by 85%. The relationship between nitrogen balance and blood bicarbonate paralleled that between nitrogen balance and plasma ionic balance (Na + K − Cl). A specific effect of NaHCO3 on nitrogen balance that is independent of changes in plasma electrolyte balance remains to be proven. Key words: Sodium bicarbonate, nitrogen balance, acid-base balance, electrolyte balance, lambs
REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF PREPUBERTAL DAIRY HEIFERS ON LOW OR HIGH β-CAROTENE DIETS
Authors: TEKPETEY F. R. , PALMER W. M. , INGALLS J. R.
Published: March 2010

Twenty 5-mo-old heifers were assigned randomly to either a no-carotene or a carotene-supplemented grain ration (2–2.5 kg head−1 d−1) for a 10-mo trial to investigate the effect of β-carotene deficiency on pre and postpuberal reproductive performance. All heifers received, ad libitum, a low-carotene basal forage of corn silage, weathered hay and/or straw. Mean serum β-carotene and vitamin A were higher (P < 0.05) in the carotene-supplemented heifers. Beta-carotene supplementation improved (P < 0.05) overall average daily gain, but had no effect on mean age and body weight at puberty, estrous cycle length and services per conception. Mean serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) estradiol-17β, LH and FSH from prepuberty to day 17 of the first estrous cycle were not affected by β-carotene supplementation. Total P4 output during the estrous cycle did not differ between control and β-carotene-supplemented heifers. However, intensity of estrus was weaker (P < 0.01) and interval (h) from LH peak to ovulation was longer (P < 0.01) in the control (low-carotene) heifers. Key words: β-carotene, vitamin A, reproductive performance, prepubertal dairy heifers
EFFECT OF FLOOR TYPE ON THE SEVERITY OF FOOT LESIONS AND OSTEOCHONDROSIS IN SWINE
Authors: BRENNAN J. J. , AHERNE F. X.
Published: March 2010

Sixty-seven pigs were weaned at 5 wk of age and assigned to pens with either plastic-coated expanded metal or woven-wire floorings. The feet of each pig were examined at weaning and at the end of a 28-d starter period for soundness. Eleven gilts which had been on plastic-coated flooring and 12 gilts which had been on woven-wire flooring were moved at the end of the starter period to 1.2 × 1.2-m pens with the same floor types. These pigs were fed ad libitum until slaughter at 94 kg bodyweight. At weaning, the incidence of foot lesions was only 7%. Floor type did not have any significant (P > 0.05) effect on average daily gain, average daily feed intake or feed:gain ratios of pigs during the starter (8–22 kg), grower (22–55 kg) or finisher (55–94 kg) periods. Foot lesions were most severe (P < 0.01) in starter pigs which were penned on woven-wire flooring. There was also a tendency (P < 0.06) towards more severe hind-toe lesions in 94-kg gilts which were penned on woven-wire flooring. In general, the lateral digits of the feet of these gilts had more severe lesions (P < 0.01) than the medial digits. The severity of osteochondrosis of the condyles of the femur and humerus, of the articular cartilage of the proximal ulna and radius and of the distal ulnar physis were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by floor type. The influence of floor type on the locomotory system appeared therefore to be confined to local foot abrasions and did not extend to the knee and elbow joints. Key words: Swine, floor, foot, lesion, osteochondrosis
EFFECT OF REDUCED FEED INTAKE ON ZEARALENONE METABOLISM AND TOXICITY IN THE RAT
Authors: KIRITSY M. C. , LATTA M. J. , FITZPATRICK D. W.
Published: March 2010

Three experiments were conducted to determine the effect of reduced feed intake on the metabolism and toxic expression of zearalenone. Young female rats were fed a standard diet either ad libitum or 75% of ad libitum intake. The enzyme activities of 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD) and uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (UDP-G), the zearalenone metabolizing enzymes, were determined after 14 d of feeding. When feed was restricted, 3α-HSD activity increased 28% while UDP-G activity increased 79% compared to fed controls. After 14 d of feeding, animals were orally dosed with 1 mg zearalenone kg−1 body weight; zearalenone and its metabolites were measured in urine and feces. Feed restriction resulted in more conjugated zearalenone being excreted in the urine, with a corresponding decrease in α- and β-zearalenols produced and fecal metabolites compared to fed animals. No conjugated metabolites were found in the feces. Animals were fed the same diet, but 0–150 ppm zearalenone were added for 3 wk and growth and organ weights were determined. Feed restriction ameliorated zearalenone's toxic expression. These results indicate that nutritional regimen effects zearalenone metabolism, excretion and toxicity. Key words: Mycotoxin, zearalenone, feed intake, toxicity
CAUSES OF PIGLET DEATH FROM BIRTH TO WEANING
Authors: DYCK G. W. , SWIERSTRA E. E.
Published: March 2010

Causes of piglet death were determined for 569 piglets that died between birth and weaning out of a total of 2388 born over the second to fourth parity in 124 Yorkshire and 109 Yorkshire × Lacombe sow litters. Eight specific causes of death were identified. Starvation, crushing by the sow and stillbirths were the three main causes. Unidentified causes and piglets euthanized largely because of sow death or injury were of secondary importance. Exposure, congenital abnormalities and disease were of minor importance. In addition, the primary underlying cause of death appears to be a lack of adequate nutrition for the piglets as only 6.3% of the piglets dying during the first 3 d had an increase in body weight and only 15.4% of the piglets dying after day 3 had body weight increases that could be considered as adequate for their age. Key words: Piglets, death, birth, lactation
GENOTYPE × ENVIRONMENT INTERACTIONS FOR CARCASS TRAITS OF BACKCROSS BULLS
Authors: LUNEN T. A. VAN , AHERNE F. X.
Published: March 2010

The effects of station of origin, station of test and genotype × environment interactions were evaluated for carcass characteristics of 121 backcross bulls. The results suggest that station of origin, station of test and genotype × environment interactions are not of any major importance in planning of breeding programs, performance tests and transfer of beef cattle with respect to carcass traits. Key words: Cattle (beef), carcass traits, genotype × environment interactions
INTERPRETATION OF NONSTEADY STATE RUMEN LIQUID MARKER DILUTION CURVES
Authors: GIRARD V. , PELLETIER G.
Published: March 2010

A method for evaluating the dynamics of rumino-reticulum water under nonsteady state conditions has been developed for nonfistulated cattle, using per os sampling over a 4-h time period and compared to a method assuming a constant volume and dilution rate. Liquid passage rates were 12.1% h−1 for the nonsteady method compared to 18.3% h−1 for the method which assumed steady state conditions (P < 0.05). Key words: Liquid, passage rate, nonsteady state, marker, rumen, cattle
EFFECTS OF pH AND CANOLA MEAL ON TRACE MINERAL SOLUBILITY IN VITRO
Authors: KEITH M. O. , BELL J. M.
Published: March 2010

An in vitro procedure was used to examine the effects of pH and canola meal (CM) on the solubility of copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn). Solubility of Cu, Mn and Zn was reduced (P < 0.001) by increasing pH. Mn solubility was reduced (P < 0.001) with increasing CM concentration. CM had a greater effect than soybean meal (P < 0.001) in reducing the solubility of all four trace minerals. Key words: Canola meal, trace minerals, availability
INTERRELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN HEALTH ENVIRONMENT AND GENETIC AND PHENOTYPIC PERFORMANCE OF PIGS FOR GROWTH RATE AND BACKFAT
Authors: KENNEDY B. W. , QUINTON M.
Published: March 2010

Data from the Canadian Swine Genetic Evaluation Program for Yorkshire and Landrace pigs born between July 1982 and December 1984 were used to compare herds of different health classification (basic, good and excellent) for environmental and genetic levels and annual rates of environmental and genetic change in days and backfat thickness to 90 kg. There were 35 basic, 34 good and 20 excellent herds represented. Environmental differences between excellent and basic herds were −7.2 ± 3.0 d and 0.72 ± 0.31 mm backfat and between excellent and good herds were −5.3 ± 3.0 d and 0.87 ± 0.31 mm backfat. Faster growth rate in the excellent environment was accompanied by increased fatness. Genetic differences between excellent and basic herds were 1.2 ± 0.4 d and −0.45 ± 0.12 mm backfat and between excellent and good herds were 0.1 ± 0.4 d and −0.30 ± 0.12 mm backfat. Selection differentials were greatest for backfat and least for days in excellent herds and vice versa in basic herds. Rates of genetic change in days to 90 kg were equal across health classification, but excellent herds had greater rates of genetic improvement in backfat than basic or good herds. Data were also obtained from the New Hamburg, Ontario test station on boars that completed performance test between 1984 and 1985. Health classification of herd of origin had no effect on performance of boars for average daily gain or feed conversion at the test station. Effects of health classification of herd of origin on backfat were significant (P < 0.05), but reflected genetic differences between these types of herds rather than carry over environmental effects. However, the percentage that failed to complete the station test was 11.5 for boars from excellent herds, compared to 9.9 and 8.1 for boars from basic and good herds, respectively (P < 0.10). Key words: Health environment, genetic level, test station, backfat, growth rate, selection
HERITABILITY OF SCROTAL CIRCUMFERENCE IN ONE- AND TWO-YEAR-OLD BULLS OF DIFFERENT BEEF BREEDS
Authors: COULTER G. H. , KOZUB G. C. , BAILEY D. R. C. , MAPLETOFT R. J. , CATES W. F.
Published: March 2010

Over an 8-yr interval, (1975–1982) scrotal circumference (SC) was measured on 4557 1-yr-old beef bulls from 1796 sires and eight breeds. Measurements were taken upon completion of a 140-d growth performance test. During the period 1977–1983, SC was measured on 7835 2-yr-old beef bulls from 2570 sires and six breeds. Two-year-old bulls were measured during reproductive examinations at spring bull sales. All SC measurements were adjusted for fixed effects of location-year and age, and heritability estimates were calculated within-breed using a paternal half-sib analysis. Heritability estimates for the SC trait in Angus, Charolais, horned Hereford, polled Hereford, Shorthorn, Simmental, Limousin and Maine-Anjou breeds in 1-yr-old bulls were 0.22 ± 0.20, 0.46 ± 0.14, 0.89 ± 0.17, 0.83 ± 0.26, 1.01 ± 0.31, 0.63 ± 0.19, 0.94 ± 0.29 and 0.59 ± 0.22. Heritability estimates for SC in 2-yr-old bulls of the first six breeds were 0.00 ± 0.21, 0.60 ± 0.25, 0.57 ± 0.07, 0.65 ± 0.10, 0.69 ± 0.34 and 0.20 ± 0.24. Owing to the small number of sires or sons within sires for some breed-age groups and the exclusion of some sources of variation in the statistical model, the estimates of heritability may not be precise and should be used to indicate approximate levels of heritability for a particular breed. Key words: Heritability, testicular size, scrotal circumference, beef bulls
PREWEANING PATTERNS OF GROWTH IN THREE BREED GROUPS OF ANGE BEEF CALVES
Authors: AHUNU B. , MAKARECHIAN M.
Published: March 2010

Preweaning weight records of 2856 spring-born calves raised at the University of Alberta cattle ranch during a 15-yr period were used in this study. Calving occurred mainly in April and May every year. Calves from three breed groups: Hereford (HE), Beef Synthetic (SY) and Beef Crossbred (XB) were weighed at birth, and in late June, July and August and at weaning in mid-October. They were classified as early, mid-season and late-born according to their birth dates. Average daily gain (ADG) between two consecutive weighings and relative growth rate (RGR) at each interval were analyzed by the least squares method and the adjusted means were plotted against the mean ages of the calves classified at 2-wk intervals to determine the pattern of changes in ADG and RGR with the increase in age of the calf. The SY calves had the highest ADG and RGR followed by the XB and HE (P < 0.05). Bull calves exhibited significantly higher (P < 0.05) absolute growth rate than heifer calves but the sexes were not different in RGR. Preweaning ADG reached a peak when calves were between 110 and 120 d old and declined thereafter. The decline in RGR was linear during the preweaning period. The mean growth rates of the early and mid-season calves were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of the late-born calves, and early-born calves showed more consistent gain than the mid-season and late-born calves. A pronounced decline in gain was observed for mid-season and late-born calves in late summer when pasture condition deteriorated indicating that early weaning and supplementation of calves' diet at that stage might be beneficial in sustaining growth rate of the calves. Key words: Cattle (beef), preweaning growth, calf (beef)
EFFECTS OF CASTRATION AND EXOGENOUS ESTRADIOL OR TESTOSTERONE ON LIMB BONE GROWTH AND SOME PERFORMANCE TRAITS IN YOUNG MALE PIGS
Authors: CHAUDHARY Z. I. , PRICE M. A.
Published: March 2010

A total of 57 male pigs were randomly allocated at 1 wk of age to one of four treatments: castrated and implanted with estradiol −17β; castrated and implanted with testosterone; castrated and not implanted; not castrated and not implanted. The pigs were weaned at 3 wk of age and raised under conventional commercial conditions to 2, 4 or 6 mo of age. Within age group, treatment had no effect (P > 0.05) on average daily gain, feed efficiency, backfat thickness or the growth coefficients of individual organs relative to body weight. Weights, lengths and circumferences of limb bones (humerus, scapula, tibio-fibula, patella, femur and pelvis) did not differ significantly among treatments within age groups. However, the radio-ulnae were thicker (P < 0.05) in boars than in the other three groups. No significant treatment differences in the rate of radiosulfate incorporation into the tibial or radial growth plates or on the rate of linear bone growth during the last 16–26 d of the study were detected. It is concluded that neither estradiol −17β nor testosterone therapy of young castrated male pigs is likely to influence their growth or bone development up to 6 mo of age. Key words: Swine, boar, barrow, sex steroids, castration, bone growth
EFFECTS OF A LOW-VOLTAGE RECTAL ELECTRODE SYSTEM ON BEEF QUALITY FROM YOUNG AND MATURE COWS
Authors: HAWRYSH Z. J. , WOLFE F. H.
Published: March 2010

The quality characteristics of biceps femoris (BF), longissimus (L) and pectoralis profundis (PP) roasts obtained from young and mature cow carcasses subjected to low voltage (110 V) electrical stimulation (ES) were determined. ES was applied with a steel busbar rectal probe for 2 min. Evaluations were conducted on meat obtained from young control sides (no ES) aged 48 h, from young and mature sides (no ES) aged 6 d and from young and mature ES sides aged 48 h. ES caused a reduction (P < 0.001) in BF muscle pH at 1 and 4 h postmortem. Except for the pH differences in L muscle of young cows at 24 h, there were no differences in L muscle pH values due to ES for either young or mature cows. At 24 h, the pH of muscles from all carcasses was about 5.6. Cooking losses did not appear to be affected by either ES or increased aging in young control roasts. For both young and mature BF and L roasts, trained panelists generally did not detect significant effects due to ES. Except for differences in OTMS-Warner Bratzler shear values for mature PP samples, objective measurements for all roasts show no significant effects due to ES. Thus, no differences in cooking and eating quality of BF, L and PP roasts were found due to the application of low-voltage ES via the busbar rectal probe. Increasing postmortem aging time from 48 h to 6 d for young control carcasses did not influence roast quality. Animal maturity had some significant effects on the quality of all roasts. Key words: Low-voltage electrical stimulation, beef quality
MEASUREMENT AND USE OF D-ALANINE AS A BACTERIAL MARKER
Authors: GARRETT J. E. , GOODRICH R. D. , MEISKE J. C.
Published: March 2010

Use of D-alanine as a marker of bacterial dry matter (DM) and nitrogen (N) was evaluated and rates of degradation of soluble and insoluble protein in soybean meal (SBM) were determined. Accuracy and precision of the method used to measure D-alanine were high. D-alanine was superior to diaminopimelic acid as an indicator of bacterial N because of its smaller coefficient of variation (15.4 vs. 35.2%, respectively) when expressed as a ratio with bacterial N. During an in vitro incubation, ratios of bacterial N to D-alanine declined and when bacteria harvested from steers and from continuous culture fermentors receiving the same diet were compared, different bacterial N to D-alanine ratios were observed. Therefore, constant ratios should not be assumed and bacterial samples should be taken whenever possible to avoid errors in correcting for bacterial DM and N. Ten SBM samples were analyzed for soluble and insoluble protein content. Soluble, insoluble and total protein from SBM were incubated in vitro to estimate ruminal rates of protein degradation. Rate of degradation of soluble protein was greater (P < 0.05) than that of insoluble protein (10.69 vs. 9.57% h−1, respectively). Rate of degradation of total protein was 10.61% h−1. The small differences in rates of ruminal degradation for soluble and insoluble protein indicate that, at passage rates frequently observed for liquids and solids in cattle, a larger proportion of soluble SBM protein will escape bacterial degradation in the rumen than insoluble SBM protein. Key words: Cattle, D-alanine, bacterial nitrogen, degradation rate, soybean meal
SUPPLEMENTARY TRACE MINERALS FOR THE FEEDLOT FINISHING OF BEEF STEERS
Authors: BOILA R. J.
Published: March 2010

Steers in the finishing phase before slaughter were fed barley-based diets without (0TM) or with (+TM) supplemental trace minerals. The +TM diets of Trials 1 and 2 contained supplemental Cu, Zn, Mn and Se; the +TM diet of Trial 2 also contained supplemental Fe in addition to the other four trace minerals. All diets contained supplemental Co and I. Groups of steers were: Trial 1, 18 Angus-Charolais-North Devon crossbreeds, known as Selkirks (Sel) plus 18 Simmental × Sel; Trial 2, 10 Angus × Sel plus 30 Simmental × Sel. Average daily gain (ADG) was higher (P < 0.05) while feed efficiency (feed/gain; F/G) was improved 6% (P > 0.05) for +TM steers of Trial 1. There were no differences (P > 0.05) for ADG or F/G of Trial 2 when the +TM diet contained supplemental Fe. Hot carcass weight was not influenced (P > 0.05) by treatment in either Trial. In both Trials there were higher (P < 0.05) liver Cu and liver Mn for +TM steers, and no difference (P > 0.05) for liver Zn. Liver Fe was lower (P < 0.05) for +TM steers of Trial 1, but with no difference (P > 0.05) for Trial 2. Supplemental trace minerals increased ADG, but did not modify hot carcass weight in Trial 1. Liver Cu and Mn were increased in response to supplemental Cu and Mn in both Trials. It was not advantageous to provide supplemental Fe in Trial 2 in order to counteract the effect of supplemental Cu upon liver Fe observed in Trial 1. Key words: Steers, finishing phase, copper, zinc, manganese, iron
EFFECT OF LONG-TERM FEED RESTRICTION ON AGE AT PUBERTY OF GILTS
Authors: LUNEN T. A. VAN , AHERNE F. X.
Published: March 2010

Seventy-two crossbred gilts were fed either ad libitum or 85% of ad libitum from 27 kg liveweight until slaughter. At 140 d of age, the gilts were exposed to one of three mature boars for 30 min per day for 10 consecutive days. The gilts were exposed to a different boar each day on a 3-d rotational basis. All gilts were checked for signs of estrus daily and were slaughtered 10 d after estrus, at which time the ovaries were examined for verification of ovulation. Gilts not reaching puberty by 270 d of age were slaughtered. Age at puberty was lower (P < 0.05) for the ad-libitum-fed gilts. Weight and ovulation rate at puberty were unaffected by level of feeding. No differences existed between treatments for carcass measurements at slaughter. The results indicate that a weight threshold may have to be reached for puberty to occur in gilts. Key words: Swine, gilts, puberty, feed restriction
STEAM-HEATED CULLED BEANS: NUTRITIONAL VALUE AND DIGESTIBILITY FOR SWINE
Authors: RODRIGUEZ J. P. , BAILEY H. S.
Published: March 2010

White culled beans were steamed at 80 or 100 °C at various time intervals to determine the conditions necessary to inactivate the trypsin inhibitors and hemagglutinins. Steaming at 100 °C for 30 or 45 min in a covered mixer completely destroyed the hemagglutinating activity and greatly reduced the trypsin inhibitor activity of the beans. The nutritional value of the processed beans was evaluated in two digestion experiments. The inclusion of 34.5% beans steamed at 100 °C for 30 or 45 min in the diet depressed feed intake and induced scours in the pig. On the other hand, beans steamed for 75 min were readily consumed by the animals and did not induce scours. Beans steamed at 100 °C for 75 min supplied 12.9 MJ of digestible energy, 12.6 MJ of metabolizable energy, 103 g digestible protein, 1 g of absorbable calcium and 2.9 g of absorbable phosphorus per kilogram. The processed beans should thus be considered as an energy source for swine. Key words: Beans, digestibility, nutritional value, swine, steam processing
EFFECTS OF INCREASING DIETARY LEVELS OF COMMERCIALLY HEATED SOYBEANS ON PERFORMANCE, NUTRIENT RETENTION AND CARCASS QUALITY OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: LEESON S. , ATTEH J. O. , SUMMERS J. D.
Published: March 2010

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of supplementing broiler diets fed to 6 wk of age, with 0, 10, 20 or 30% of commercially heated unextracted soybeans (T.I.A. 3.9 mg g−1). Birds fed soybeans consumed less feed in the 0- to 21-d starter period and this was associated with reduced weight gain (P < 0.05) and increased feed intake: weight gain (P < 0.05). There was a decrease in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and fat retention with feeding of soybeans and this effect was most pronounced with the 30% inclusion level. Diet ME was also reduced with increased use of soybeans (P < 0.05). However, there was a decrease in digesta and fecal soap concentration with an increase in dietary levels of heated ground soybeans (P < 0.01). While carcass weight followed a trend similar to that of weight gain (P < 0.01), there was no difference between treatments for percent carcass yield (P < 0.05). Soft fat depot areas were observed when soybean oil was the primary dietary fat. Fatty acid analysis of carcass fat confirms a high degree of unsaturation for birds fed 30% heated soybeans. However, this feature was not unduly objectionable nor did it affect carcass grading (P > 0.05). Key words: Heated soybeans, broiler performance, carcass quality
THE PERFORMANCE AND THIAMIN STATUS OF PIGS FED SULFUR DIOXIDE TREATED HIGH-MOISTURE BARLEY
Authors: GIBSON D. M. , KENNELLY J. J. , AHERNE F. X.
Published: March 2010

High-moisture barley (HMB) was ensiled or treated with 1% (wt/wt) liquid sulfur dioxide (SO2). Forty-five weanling pigs were allocated to five dietary treatments for 28 d. Diets consisted of: (1) dry barley, diet mixed every 28 d; (2) ensiled HMB, diet mixed daily; (3) SO2-treated HMB, diet mixed every 28 d; (4) SO2-treated HMB, diet mixed daily; (5) SO2-treated HMB, diet mixed daily and supplemented with thiamin. All diets contained 47% barley on a dry matter (DM) basis. Pigs fed diets 2 and 4 continued on test to 85 kg; diets formulated after 28 d contained 75% barley (DM basis). Feed intake, growth rate and feed:gain ratio were not influenced (P < 0.05) by treatment during the 28-d initial trial. For pigs fed SO2-treated HMB to 85 kg, feed intake and average daily gain were reduced by 9.8 and 9.0%, respectively. SO2 treatment effectively preserved high-moisture barley for 18 d at 16 °C; however, 61% of the dietary thiamin was destroyed by 7 d after diet mixing. Pigs fed diet 4 were thiamin depleted at slaughter; with a 38.5% higher erythrocyte thamin pyrophosphate effect, an 83% incidence of cardiac hypertrophy and thiamin levels in meat reduced to 7.6% of that present in the meat of pigs fed untreated HMB. Destruction of dietary thiamin appears to have been the primary factor responsible for reduced animal performance. Reduced ration palatability and toxicological effects on the digestive tract due to 75% SO2 treated grain in the diet (DM basis) may have also contributed to the reduced performance of growing-finishing pigs. Key words: Sulfur dioxide, preservative, barley, pigs, thiamin
REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF SOWS INSEMINATED WITH FRESH OR THAWED SEMEN: INFLUENCE OF INSEMINATION AT A FIXED TIME OR AS INDICATED BY CHANGES IN VAGINAL MUCUS CONDUCTIVITY
Authors: HARBISON S. , KIRKWOOD R. N. , AHERNE F. X. , SATHER A. P.
Published: March 2010

Eighty, second-parity Lacombe sows were inseminated at the first postweaning estrus with a single dose of either fresh or thawed semen. Insemination was performed either 24 h after estrus onset or as indicated by a meter (Goldfinger) which measured changes in vaginal mucus conductivity. Estrus detection involved boar contact every 6 h from weaning. Sows bred according to the meter were inseminated at a reading of 8 on a scale of 1 to 12. Pregnancy rates 25 d after insemination and number of embryos were reduced for the thawed semen group, and there was no beneficial effect attributable to using the meter. Key words: Sows, insemination
EVALUATION OF AN ALFALFA SILAGE-CORN SILAGE FEEDING PROGRAM FOR DAIRY HEIFERS FROM 200 TO 300 KG BODY WEIGHT
Authors: ATWAL A. S. , BATRA T. R.
Published: March 2010

An alfalfa silage-corn silage diet (15% concentrate) was similar in chemical composition to a hay-haylage-alfalfa silage-corn silage diet (25% concentrate). When fed to dairy heifers (238–350 d of age), the two diets resulted in very similar rates of gain (969 vs. 950 g d−1), heart girth and withers height. Heifers of both of these groups experienced considerable breeding problems. In a silage diet, grain content and its cost may be further reduced to obtain the desired rate of gain of about 700 g d−1 for dairy heifers growing from 200 to 300 kg body weight. Key words: Silage diet, growth rate, dairy heifers
COPPER AND SELENIUM SUPPLEMENTATION TO CALVES BY MEANS OF A SOLUBLE GLASS BOLUS
Authors: BUCKLEY W. T. , STRACHAN G. , PULS R.
Published: March 2010

Two hundred and thirty-nine calves were used to assess the effectiveness of a commercial soluble glass bolus as an intraruminal supplement of copper and selenium. Administration of two boluses per animal raised serum selenium concentration from marginal to adequate but did not prevent the decrease of serum copper concentration from adequate to deficient in some calves over the summer. Key words: Copper, selenium, mineral supplementation, soluble glass, calves
EFFECT OF DURATION OF REWARD UPON OPERANT HEAT DEMAND OF PIGLETS RECEIVING MICROWAVE OR INFRARED HEAT
Authors: MORRISON W. D. , AMYOT E. , McMILLAN L. , OTTEN L. , PEI D. C. T.
Published: March 2010

In the conduct of a four-period trial, forty-eight newly weaned piglets were randomly allocated to three treatments: (1) continuous infrared (CI), (2) operant infrared (OI), and (3) operant microwave (OM). The piglets subjected to the operant procedure initially underwent a learning phase, in which activation of a microswitch was associated with the delivery of heat. During the experimental phase, the duration of heat supply for both OI and OM was adjusted to 2, 4, 6 or 8 min according to a Latin square design. Each heat delivery interval lasted 48 h. The piglets responded to increasing duration of heat reward, for both OI and OM conditions, by decreasing (P < 0.05) the number of rewarded activations of the microswitch. It was estimated that for each increase of 1 min in duration of the reward, the piglets voluntarily decreased the number of rewarded activations by approximately 0.32 (P > 0.05) and 0.19 (P < 0.05) activations per hour, for the OI and OM conditions, respectively. Each minute increase in duration of the reward was also associated with a decrease of 1.32 min h−1 (P > 0.05) and 1.39 min h−1 (P < 0.05) of supplemental heat from OI and OM, respectively. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in total weight gain and feed/gain between treatments. Key words: Operant, thermoregulation, piglets, microwave