bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
506 Late-Breaking: Rapid Weight Assessment of Finishing Pigs
Authors: Abner Victoria , Holt Jonathan P , Knauer Mark , Young Sierra
Published: October 2021

Accurate pig body weight assessment is an important factor in managing swine herds and imperative when determining acceptable market weights. Pigs marketed outside the desired weight range established by the packer can lead to severe economic loss to the producer. This study’s objective was to validate new weight measurement technologies and determine their usefulness on swine farms. Accuracy of three methods were evaluated: human observation, a walk-across platform scale (CIMA; Correggio, Italy), and PigVision mounted cameras (Asimetrix Inc; Durham, NC). Weights were validated with a calibrated livestock scale in all three studies. In the first study, a trained individual selected pigs estimated to be market weight at two sites. Site one had 468 pigs and an accuracy of 84.4%, site two had 522 pigs and an 82.5% accuracy. A 16-week study was then conducted to determine PigVision camera accuracy over time from placement to market. Cameras were mounted above 12 pens. Weights were validated every two weeks. The accuracy for pigs that weighed 32.7 kg (87.7%) was lower (P < 0.05) than the accuracy for pigs that weighed 117.5 kg (97.6%) or 125.7 kg (96.6%). The overall accuracy from placement to market was 94.1%. A final study at market compared human observation, the walk-across scale, and PigVision. A total of 91 pigs were weighed with each method. The accuracy for the walk-across scale was 98.2%. The walk-across scale did not register a weight for six pigs. Final accuracies were 88.2% for human observation, and 96.6% for PigVision. Human observation is the chosen method in many operations today yet offers the lowest accuracy. The walk-across scale is easy to operate but requires tactical animal movement. PigVision is the least arduous option, provides constant data, but does require maintenance. This work was funded by the National Pork Board.
476 Effect of Holding Period on Viability, Acrosome Status and Intracellular Zinc of Boar Sperm During Liquid Storage
Authors: Gonzalez-Castro Raul A , Herickhoff Lisa A
Published: October 2021

Sperm capacitation results in acrosomal remodeling, increased membrane fluidity, plasma membrane fusability and hyperactivated sperm. Distinct sperm zinc signatures reflect intracellular zinc content, capacitation status, and viability. Therefore, flow cytometric assessment could be a useful tool to evaluate sperm quality and longevity during liquid storage of boar semen. Cooled semen (17°C) from commercial boars (n = 12) were assessed at Day-1, -4 and -7 after collection for motility (IVOS II, Hamilton Thorne, Beverly, MA), intracellular zinc and viability. Samples were stained with 8 µg/mL Hoecsht-33342 (Hoe), 1 µM FluoZinTM-3-AM (Zinc), 10 µM propidium iodide (PI) and 5.6 µg/mL PNA-Alexa647TM (Molecular Probes, Eugene, OR), incubated for 30 min, washed with PBS, and aditionally incubated for 30 min. Acquisition and analysis of 20000 events were performed using Bio-Rad ZE5 Cell Analyzer (Hercules, CA) and FLowJoTM (Ashland, OR). Hoe+ events were gated into Zinc/PI plot to determine viable sperm with high Zinc (Zinc+/PI-). Likewise, Hoe+ events were gated into PI/PNA plot and then into Zinc histogram to detect viable-intact-acrosome with high Zinc (Zn+/PI-/PNA-). Data were analyzed by mixed model for repeated measures, Tukey-adjusted pairwise comparisons and Pearson’s correlation. Viable sperm at Day-1 (86.0±3.1; emmean±SM) and Day-4 (84.7±2.8) showed similar percentage of Zinc+ sperm, and both significantly higher compared to Day-7 (52.2±2.8). Also, viable-intact-acrosome sperm displayed similar percentage of Zinc+ sperm at Day-1 (93.8±3.4) and Day-4 (91.6±3.4) and both higher than sperm at Day-7 (64.5±3.1; P < 0.0001). Percentages of Zinc+ sperm were higher (P < 0.001) when viable sperm had intact acrosome within Day. Percentages of Zinc+ sperm strongly correlated to viable-intact-acrosome sperm (r=0.76, P < 0.0001) and total motility (r=0.65, P < 0.0001). We conclude that sperm having intact plasmatic membrane and acrosome display higher intracellular zinc content which is related to capacitated status, remaining non-capacitated until at least to Day-4 after collection in the tested extender.
488 Career Awareness of Incoming University of Florida Animal Science Majors
Authors: Trimble Allyson , Imler Amie , Carr Chad , Scheffler Jason M
Published: October 2021

A disproportionate number of Animal Science (ANS) students start their program with the intent of pursuing veterinary school. While some succeed, most change career paths either by personal choice or not gaining admission into veterinary school. Ideally, the sooner a student identifies alternative career path(s), the more opportunities they have to prepare for those careers by pursuing additional classes and extracurriculars. The University of Florida (UF) is unique compared to peer institutions with a 30% freshman acceptance rate, an overwhelming 41% of UF ANS students arrive as transfers. This compresses the time to matriculate through the ANS curriculum and increases the urgency to redirect students into the numerous ANS career paths. The objective of this study is to better understand ANS student’s perceptions of careers. We conducted a career awareness survey at the start and end of the ANS3006 Introduction to Animal Science course over the past two years. Students (n=352) were asked demographic information, and completed an online instrument evaluating their awareness of career options available to them. Over 49% could not list more than two careers. Veterinarian was the most common and appeared on 76% of responses. Students are exposed to careers throughout each lecture module and related career-focused assignments. In the post test evaluation, 57% listed more than two careers, with the average increasing from 2.8 to 3.6 careers per student. Additionally, 18.8% of students indicated their career goals had changed over the course of the semester, with more than 2/3 or those being students who changed from a veterinary path. In conclusion, ANS students arriving at UF have a limited outlook on career options. While introduction to ANS has some success in expanding those options, more efforts need to be made in the current curriculum and through secondary education to increase awareness of ANS careers.
486 Comparison Between Online and In-person Instruction in a Laboratory-based Animal Science Course
Authors: McCurdy Dana E , Miller-Kleman Richelle , High Karen
Published: October 2021

Online teaching has been rapidly integrated into laboratory-based learning environments across all disciplines due to the 2019 pandemic. With such an abrupt transition to online instruction, the quality of traditional instruction in laboratory-based courses is in question. The objective of this study was to determine if a hands-on laboratory could be effectively taught online. This study compared the academic achievement and perception of students (n = 163) in an Introduction to Animal Science course where half the course instruction was online, and half was in-person. Student achievement was measured from weekly quizzes, and two major exams, a midterm and final, testing material covered online and in-person, respectively. All statistics were analyzed using JMP Pro 14. Exam scores were correlated to quiz scores to assess output to input, and were strongly correlated. A 10% increase in quiz performance resulted in a 1% increase in exam performance for both types of instruction (P < 0.01). There is no difference in this effect between material delivered online, and in-person. The efficacy of the method of instruction was measured by student surveys. Meeting style preference of students was different between instruction methods, where student preference shifted from asynchronous (40% to 11.6%) to hybrid instruction (39.6% to 69.5%), with no change in virtual preference (P < 0.01; P = 0.14). Student perception of quiz and exam question fairness was different where students thought question fairness increased between online and in-person instruction for quizzes and exams, respectively (P < 0.01; P < 0.01). In conclusion, there are no differences in student performance based on grades between online and in-person instruction; however, student perception of meeting style and assessment question fairness improved when students were taught in-person. As a result, laboratory-based science courses can be successfully transitioned to online instruction.
489 Success of Hyflex Teaching Modality in Animal Reproduction
Authors: Weathers Julie , McNeely Chelsea
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 forced institutions to think and act differently. Southeast Missouri State University launched a HyFlex pilot with 100 sections in fall 2020. AY350 (Animal Reproduction) is one course that converted to HyFlex and offered two sections in the pilot. The objective of this study was to determine if students were more successful in HyFlex courses compared to the traditional course, grades were compared from 2019 and 2020. A survey of Chief Online Officers identified that institutions on average converted more than 1500 sections as an emergency response to the pandemic (Garrett, et al., 2020). HyFlex is one approach institutions used to provide more flexible learning opportunities for students. In a HyFlex course, students can choose to learn in face-to-face, fully online, or synchronously online (Beatty, 2019). Research on student success in Hyflex is scant, however early research shows no significant difference in student success across modalities (Rhoads, 2020). Using a One Way T-test, we analyzed letter grade outcomes for students who enrolled in traditional (n=25) mode to those that enrolled in the HyFlex (n=44) modality. Findings show an increase in “A” and “B” course grades and a decrease in “C” grades, and conflicts with the Rhoads (2020) research which found no significant difference. Additionally, no students failed the HyFlex section(s). Specific variables of Test 3 (p< 0.02) and Final exams (p< 0.002) contributed to significant grade changes. Overall, using a traditional grade point average (GPA) scale where A=4.0, B=3.0, etc. the HyFlex course GPA mean was 3.269 and face-to-face 2.65 (p=0.002). Future research is planned to explore student success in HyFlex across the institution. If similar findings correlate with the initial study of AY350, additional questions should be considered to determine if grade distribution shift was incremental and why increases were seen in the second half of the semester.
PSX-B-18 Behavioral and physiological responses of ewes in hardwood silvopastures vs. open pastures
Authors: Poudel Sanjok , Halili Aleks , Fike John H , Pent Gabriel J
Published: October 2021

Managing livestock in silvopasture systems can help reduce heat stress and improve animal behavior and productivity. However, quantifying physiological benefits for animals in pastoral systems is challenging because the sampling procedures require animal handling; this is stressful and elevates plasma cortisol, a stress hormone. Hair cortisol (HC) is a relatively non-invasive and reliable measure of chronic stress, but it has received limited use especially in pasture systems. We compared behavioral and physiological (temperature, hair and blood cortisol) responses of ewes that grazed mid-stage hardwood silvopastures vs. open pastures. The study site consists of 0.27-ha black walnut (Juglans nigra; BW) and honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos; HL) silvopastures and open pasture (OP) treatments, each replicated three times. Thirty-six Katahdin ewes were assigned to one of the treatments for a 6-week summer grazing trial. Ewe weights and intravaginal temperatures were recorded routinely; trail cameras captured animal behavior. Blood was collected via jugular venipuncture; hair grown during the trial was collected from the loin region. Blood and hair cortisol concentration was determined by ELISA. Body weight gains and plasma cortisol levels did not differ among treatments. Ewes on OP had higher HC on Day-21 and Day-42 (P ≤ 0.007) and 0.5–1.0 °C hotter (P ≤ 0.04) intravaginal temperatures between 1200h-1700h than ewes on silvopasture treatments. Overall, ewes on OP spent more (P < 0.001) time loafing and less (P < 0.10) time lying down compared to ewes on silvopasture treatments. Trees within the silvopastures moderated ambient conditions, both reducing stress and improving the behavioral and physiological responses of ewes.
PSI-B-26 Association of leptin gene polymorphisms (C73T and C528T) on the development of internal organs in Aberdeen-angus cattle
Authors: Lapshina Alexandra , Gerasimov Nikolay , Dzhulamanov Kinispay , Kolpakov Vladimir , Dzhulamanov Erzhan
Published: October 2021

Numerous studies have established the relationship of SNPs in the leptin gene with fat and energy exchange, nutritional behavior in cattle. In turn, the intensity of metabolic processes in body is determined by the development of internal organs. The purpose of research was to study the relationship between the complex of polymorphisms C73T and C528T in leptin gene for the formation of internal organs in Aberdeen-Angus cows and heifers. Cows (n = 30) and heifers (n = 49) were genotyped and identified respectively 7 and 8 various combinations of genotypes of C73T (GenBank AF120500) and C528T (GenBank AB070368). There were no homozygous CC/CC and TT/TT combinations in cows, and no TT/TT combination in heifers. Cows were slaughtered at the age of 3 years, and heifers - at 20 months. Cows with haplotype CT/CC had the highest liver, heart, lung, kidney and spleen weight with superiority relative to peers of 6.5–16.0% (P > 0.05). The minimum development of stomachs was established at cows with a combination of genotypes of CC/TT which conceded to analogs for 7.6–13.8% (P > 0.05). Haplotypes CT/CT and TT/CT in heifers were associated with greater internal organ massiveness. Carriers of complex CT/CT genotype outperformed peers in terms of liver, heart, lung, kidney and spleen weight by 1.75–6.59% (P < 0.05, P > 0.05), and individuals with a combination of TT/CT by 3.50–8.84% (P < 0.05, P > 0.05). Less developed stomachs were established in bodies with haplotype TT/CC, which were inferior to other genotypes by 1.20–7.49% (P < 0.05, P > 0.05). This indirectly indicates a relatively weak ability to use coarse plant foods. Thus, the complex genotype inleptin gene is associated with the variability in the development of internal organs, which determines the intensity of metabolic processes. This research was performed with financial support from the project of RAS0526-2021-0001.
PSI-B-20 A scan for signatures of selection in Russian Romanov sheep breed based on ROH hot spots analysis
Authors: Deniskova Tatiana E , Abdelmanova Alexandra S , Dotsev Arsen V , Koshkina Olga , Rodionov Andrey , Brem Gottfried , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: October 2021

The world-famous Romanov breed of sheep fits easily into different production systems including private households, smallholders, and large farms. Such a resilience and extraordinary reproduction traits combining with good meat qualities have made the Romanov breed as a choice to produce mutton in the Central Russia regions. However, little is known on genetic mechanisms underlying the complex of specific traits of this breed. In this regard, we performed a scan of signatures of selection by identification of runs of homozygosity (ROH) islands in the Romanov sheep population. Forty-eight samples of the Romanov sheep from the Yaroslavl and Kaluga regions of Russia were genotyped using Ovine Infinium® HD SNP BeadChip (Illumina, CA, USA). ROHs were estimated in the R package “detectRUNS” using window-free method for consecutive. The ROH shared in more than 50% of sheep were considered as ROH islands. The genes overlapped with the ROH islands were annotated using Ensembl genome browser 103. Enrichment for functional categories of the identified genes was performed using DAVID Functional Annotation Bioinformatics Microarray Analysis tool. More than 88 SNPs were found in ROH islands located on OAR1, OAR10, OAR11, OAR13, OAR14, OAR15, OAR16, OAR17 and OAR18. We detected a major group of genes related to reproduction traits. The identified candidates included UBE2Q1 (embryo implantation, fertilization, prolactin secretion), RNF17 (spermiogenesis), HSD11B2 (pregnancy, follicle function), FANCA (gonad development), and CUBN (embryonic development). In addition, several identified genes were involved in fatty acid metabolism (ACOX1, HAO2, and EIF6), lipid transport (OSBPL11), and biosynthesis of lipid-binding serum glycoproteins (BPIFB4) as well as in osteoblast differentiation (ADAR). The studies will be continued on a larger sample with further validation of the most promising candidate genes. Genotyping of twenty-four samples was performed within RFBR project No. 20-516-56002. Other twenty-four SNP-genotypes were generated within the theme No. 0445-2019-0024.
PSVI-16 Comparison of univariate and multivariate machine learning applications for genomic predictions of growth and carcass traits from Brangus heifers
Authors: Peters Sunday O , Sinecen Mahmut , Kizilkaya Kadir , Thomas Milton G
Published: October 2021

Data for growth and carcass traits were obtained from 738 Brangus heifers (3/8 Brahman-Bos indicus × 5/8 Angus-Bos taurus) registered with International Brangus Breeders Association. Phenotypes included body weights (BW, WW, and YW) collected at birth, ~205 and 365 d of age for growth traits and yearling ultrasound assessment of longissimus muscle area (LMA), percent intramuscular fat (IMF), and depth of rib fat (FAT) for carcass traits and were used to compare univariate and multivariate artificial neural networks (ANN) models with the learning algorithms (Levenberg–Marquardt (LM), Bayesian Regularization (BR) and Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG)) and transfer functions (tangent sigmoid and linear) using 1 to 20 neurons models based on the input from G genomic relationship matrix. Pearson correlation coefficients for evaluating model performances in testing datasets indicated that univariate ANN models resulted in better genomic prediction than the multivariate ANN models regardless of the learning algorithms and transfer functions for carcass traits. However, there was no clear difference between univariate and multivariate ANN models about genomic prediction for growth traits. In multivariate ANN models, the prediction performance of the combination of learning algorithms and transfer functions changed for growth and carcass traits and there were no superior multivariate ANN models with BR, LM and SCG learning algorithms and transfer functions. However, the correlation coefficients from univariate ANN-BR model indicated better genomic prediction than univariate ANN-LM and ANN-SCG models. The application of different transfer functions did not make any significant difference on the genomic prediction performance of ANN models with different learning algorithms. Results of this study suggest the use of univariate ANN models with BR learning algorithm for genomic prediction of growth and carcass traits.
PSVI-14 Characteristic of hybrid chicken derived from crossing of Ogye and white leghorn
Authors: Roh Hee-Jong , Jae-Hwan Kim , Kim Seung-Chang , Jin Daehyeok , Cha Ji-Hye , Lee Jun-Heon
Published: October 2021

Ogye, an indigenous Korean chicken breed has entirely black external features and internal organs. White Leghron, an transboundary breed has white color features as opposed to Ogye. We make crossbreed (Ogye x White Leghorn) to investigate how the phenotype appeared in F1. In F0, 5 females and 1 male were selected for each parental type; 1) Ogye(♂) x White leghorn(♀), 2) White leghron(♂) x Ogye(♀). We A total of 321 individuals of F1 were made through artificial insemination. We measured body weights at birth, 8 weeks, 16 weeks, 24 weeks, and 32 weeks of age. In 1) type females, the average of body weight at each period was 39.04±0.32, 613.18±6.86, 1149.37±7.76, 1463.97±13.25, 1718.02±14.83 respectively. In 2 type females, that was 30.57±0.21, 543.19±7.54, 1069.63±12.92, 1410.06±10.80, 1527.53±13.73. The P-value values for each period were less than 0.05. In 1) type males, the average of body weight at each period was 39.18±0.34, 744.70±7.84, 1579.39±15.76, 2014.63±19.15, 2310.89±20.58. In 2 type females, that was 30.71±0.24, 683.75±9.51, 1419.79±15.76, 1800.00±18.88, 2064.79±19.68. The P-value values for each period were also less than 0.05. In the case of feather color, it was generally white, but black spots appeared only in females produced in type 1). Comb and beak color was generally also red, but black appeared only in in females produced in type 1). From these results, it can be estimated that paternal factors such as weight and appearance are greatly affected, and we plan to investigate the genetic patterns of each trait through F2 construction in the future.
PSVII-26 Follicular growth in beef cows when using a low dose of FSH and hCG at the time of CIDR removal in a 7-day co-synch + CIDR protocol
Authors: Heredia Daniella C , Ojeda-Rojas Oscar A , Tarnonsky Federico , Gonella-Diaza Angela Maria M , Di Lorenzo Nicolas , Almeida Marina
Published: October 2021

The aim of the study was to compare the growth of the periovulatory follicle in crossbreed cows receiving either a low dose of hCG (150 IU; Chorulon®, Merck) or a low dose of FSH (20 mg)Folltropin®, Vetoquinol) vs. a control group when applied at CIDR removal during an estrus synchronization protocol. At d0, a CIDR (Eazi-Breed CIDR®, Zoetis) was placed, a dose of GnRH (Factrel®, Zoetis) was applied i.m. and transrectal ultrasound was conducted to evaluate cyclicity status. On d7, cows (n = 79) were randomly assigned to three treatments (Control n = 27, FSH n = 26, and hCG n = 26) according to body condition score (1 to 9 scale) and cyclicity status. On the same day, CIDR was removed, a dose of prostaglandin analog (Lutalyse HighCon Injection®, Zoetis) was administered i.m. and an Estrotect™ patch was placed between the hip and tail head. Transrectal ultrasound was conducted to evaluate the diameter of the preovulatory follicle (DPF) at d7 and every 12h from d8 until ovulation was detected. Five cows that did not ovulate were removed from the study. Data were analyzed using GLIMMIX and LIFETEST procedures (SAS). The diameter at ovulation was not different among treatments (Control: 13.02 ± 0.53 mm; FSH: 12.38 ± 0.54 mm; hCG; 11.69 ± 0.47 mm; P = >0.10). Also, the time to ovulation was not different among treatments (P = 0.65; Figure 1a). However, cows of the control group presented estrus signs earlier than FSH and hCG groups (P = 0.02, Figure 1b). In conclusion, the use of a low dose of hCG or FSH at the time of CIDR removal did not increase the DPF or the time to ovulation.
PSVII-29 Genetic analysis of frame score and performance traits in Nellore cattle – reproduction and productivity traits
Authors: Baldi Fernando S , Negreiros Maria Paula , Peripolli Elisa , Magnabosco Claudio U , Guimarães Nayanny , Lôbo Raysildo , Sainz Roberto D
Published: October 2021

Frame score systems developed for Bos taurus breeds do not translate well for Bos indicus breeds, as these tend to be taller. We evaluated a novel frame score system for Nellore cattle raised on pasture [Guimaraes et al., 2020 J, Anim. Sci. 98 (Suppl. 4)]. Traits included adjusted scrotal circumference (cm) at 365 (SC365) and 450 (SC450) days of age, age at first calving (AFC, d), early heifer pregnancy (EHP, % calving as two-year-olds), stayability (STAY, % of cows remaining in the herd over 76 months of age, calving at least three times), and accumulated productivity (AP, kg of calf weaned per cow per year). In this study, we applied the previously developed equations (that also include hip height (HH, cm) and age to 12,049 records from the National Association of Breeders and Researchers (ANCP) database:FSmales= -20.35 + 0.1305*REA + 0.2633*BF - 0.5901*RF + 0.1139*HH + 0.0056*AGEFSfemales = -11.87 + 0.1316*REA - 0.2457*BF - 0.6218*RF + 0.1139*HH + 0.0009507*AGEThe (co)variance components and genetic parameters were estimated using a linear animal model or a threshold animal model depending on the trait. The heritability estimate for frame score was moderate (0.30). Estimated genetic correlations for reproductive traits were low to moderate (SC365, 0.06; SC450, 0.04; AFC, 0.18; EHP, -0.24; STAY, 0.06; AP, 0.25). The estimates support the notion that larger frame animals are later maturing but have greater lifetime productivity. The new frame score may be a useful tool for genetic selection of animals that are best suited to their environment.
PSVIII-1 Genetic characteristics of Karachaev sheep inferred from genome-wide SNP analysis
Authors: Dotsev Arsen V , Deniskova Tatiana E , Petrov Sergey N , Reyer Henry , Wimmers Klaus , Brem Gottfried , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: October 2021

Karachaev sheep is a fat-tailed breed from North-Caucasus, Russia. It has good adaptability to local environments and excellent meat quality. The aim of our study was to investigate genetic characteristics of Karachaev sheep and its relationship with other fat-tailed breeds. Samples of Karachaev (n = 22), Lezgin (n = 21), Edilbai (n = 21), Karakul (n = 21), Alai (n = 20), and Gissar (n = 20) breeds were genotyped using Ovine HD BeadChip. For phylogenetic analyses, we additionally included 50K genotypes of Afshari, Awassi, Barki, Chios, Cyprus Fat-Tailed, and Red Maasai breeds. PLINK 1.9 was used for quality control and performing PCA. Genetic diversity parameters were calculated in R package diveRsity. Historical effective population size (Ne) was estimated using SNeP 1.1. Cluster analysis was conducted in Admixture 1.3. TreeMix tree was constructed in TreeMix 1.13. Genetic diversity indices (observed and expected heterozygosity, allelic richness) were highest in Karachaev and Lezgin breeds. Karachaev sheep was phylogenetically closer to Lezgin and Edilbai breeds. Trends in historical Ne were very similar for these breeds. We observed the increased decline in Ne around 20–25 generations ago (which corresponds to 1940s) that can be associated with deportation of Karachaev people to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in 1943, which resulted in lost almost all of its livestock. TreeMix analysis allowing one migration event revealed gene flow from Karakul to Karachaev/Lezgin nod. Admixture analysis showed the presence in Karachaev sheep of Edilbai and Karakul specific genomic components (~80 and ~20%, respectively). Our study allow suggest that Karachaev breed was extinct during World War II and then was restored in 1960s after Karachaev people returned to their land. It originated from the sheep they brought from Central Asia (Edilbai), and was improved by Karakul breed and local sheep. This work was supported by RSF No. 21-46-00001 (genotyping) and the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education No. 0445-2019-0024 (expedition studies).
PSXI-9 Heterotic and breed effects in crossbred lambs
Authors: Jurado Napoleon Vargas , Taylor Bret , Notter David R , Brown Daniel , Lewis Ronald M
Published: October 2021

Given its benefits on animal performance, crossbreeding is common commercially. Genetic evaluation of sheep in the U.S. is performed within breed type (terminal, maternal wool, range, hair). While incorporating crossbred records may improve assessment of purebreds, it requires accounting for heterotic and breed effects in the evaluation. The objectives were to i) determine the generalized effects of direct and maternal heterosis on growth traits of crossbred lambs, and ii) estimate covariance components for direct and maternal additive, and uncorrelated maternal environmental, effects among those traits. Data included body weights (BW) at birth (BN; n = 14395), pre-weaning (WN; n = 9298), weaning (WW; n = 9230), and post-weaning (PW; n = 1593). Mean (SD) BW were 5.3 (1.1), 22.2 (8.7), 39.1 (7.2), and 54.2 (8.7) kg for BN, WN, WW, and PW, respectively. Estimates of heterotic effects and covariance components were obtained using a multiple trait animal model. Genetic effects based on founders’ breeds were included, being significant. Estimates of direct heterosis were 3.04 ± 0.61, 2.62 ± 0.64, 3.99 ± 0.54, and 5.97 ± 0.86%, and estimates of maternal heterosis were 1.86 ± 0.87, 4.42 ± 0.79, 3.69 ± 0.66, and 3.77 ± 0.90%, for BN, WN, WW, and PW, respectively. Direct heritability estimates were 0.17 ± 0.02, 0.13 ± 0.02, 0.18 ± 0.02, and 0.47 ± 0.04 for BN, WN, WW, and PW, respectively. Additive maternal effects defined trivial variation in PW. For BN, WN, and WW, respectively, maternal heritability estimates were 0.17 ± 0.02, 0.10 ± 0.02, and 0.07 ± 0.02. Uncorrelated maternal effects defined little variation in any trait. Direct and maternal heterosis had considerable impact on growth traits, emphasizing the value of crossbreeding and the need to account for heterosis, in addition to breed effects, if crossbred lamb information is included in genetic evaluation.
PSXII-5 Influence of the total content of toxic elements in hair on semen qualitative characteristics of the Holstein sires
Authors: Platonov Stanislav , Frolov Alexey , Kharlamov Anatoly , Zavyalov Oleg
Published: October 2021

It is known that chemical elements affect the quality characteristics of animal sperm. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the level of toxic load determined by the concentration of Al, Cd, Pb, Sn, Hg, Sr in wool on the quality characteristics of sperm. The studies were carried out on the Holstein bulls, the age at the selection of biosubstrates is 3–4 years (n = 65), which, based on data according to the amount of toxic elements (∑tox, mmol / kg) in hair, were divided into 3 groups: I - up to the 25th percentile, II - 25–75 percentile, III - above 75 percentile. Parameters evaluated were ejaculate in volume (ml) for 2 adjacent wells, sperm concentration (billions/ml) using a digital photometer, sperm activity (points) using a phase contrast microscope, the number of frozen doses (pcs), on average for the month preceding the selection of hair. Hair samples were taken from the withers in an amount of - 0.4 g. The elemental composition of wool was determined by 6 toxic elements (Al, Cd, Pb, Sn, Hg, Sr) by the AES-ICP and MS-ICP methods. According to the research results, it was established that as ∑tox increases from 0.114 mmol/kg in group I to 0.341 mmol/kg in group III, the volume of ejaculate decreases by 37.1% (Р£0,05), the concentration of sperm by 30.0% (Р£0,001), activity - by 0.2 points (Р£0,05), the number of frozen doses - by 182.4% (Р£0,001). Thus, the results of the studies carried out show the dependence of the quality indicators of sperm on the total content of toxic elements in hair of breeding bulls and it can be used as a diagnostic biosubstrate. The studies were carried out in accordance with the research plan for 2019–2021. FSBSI Federal Research Centre BST RAS (No. 0761-2019-0006).
PSXIV-26 Selection footprints in Russian red cattle identified by linkage disequilibrium blocks based on SNP data
Authors: Sermyagin Alexander A , Dotsev Arsen V , Abdelmanova Alexandra S , Sölkner Johann , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: October 2021

Among the variety of cattle breeds in Russia, the Russian red dual-purpose cattle breeds have great importance because of their ability to produce high milk yields as well as to provide excellent milk quality. The low census size of the Russian red cattle breeds requires development of programs for conservation of their biodiversity. Our study aimed to investigate selection footprints in Russian red cattle breeds, using high values of linkage disequilibrium (LD) in SNP haplotype blocks as indicators. For finding such LD blocks, we used the genotypes (≈35K SNPs) of Red Gorbatov (RGB, n = 26), Bestuzhev (BST,n = 27), and Suksun (SKS,n = 17) breeds, as well as Red Holstein (RH,n = 16) as an outgroup. Quality control and LD calculations for different distances were performed in Plink 1.90. Top 0.01% SNP pairs by LD value (0.9≤r2< 1.0) were selected for further analysis. The effective population size derived from LD patterns was estimated using SNeP tool. Comparison of LD values for 70 kb interval between breeds and chromosomes by MANOVA pairwise testing significantly distinguished RH/RGB and BST/SKS breeds (P < 0.05-0.001). LD values among chromosomes were 0.195–0.287 for RH, 0.194–0.272 for RGB, 0.172–0.237 for BST, and 0.157–0.217 for SKS. The SKS and BST breeds had higher Ne values (84 and 113, respectively) compared to RH (63) and RGB (79). Selection footprints by LD blocks in Russian red cattle genome covered several relevant genes on BTA1 (EPHA6,DGKG), BTA2 (LRP1B,THSD7B,STAT1), BTA5 (CPM,BAIAP2L2), BTA9 (TRDN,UTRN), BTA10 (KCNN2,CAPN3), BTA11 (SH3RF3,RABGAP1,RALGPS1), BTA14 (ZNF16,ARHGAP39,TOX,DGAT1), and BTA19 (MYH10), BTA22 (FHIT). Detected genes were found to be responsible for milk fat and protein contents, fatty acid composition, somatic cells score, fertility, feet and legs, and udder conformation traits. Our results can be useful for developing the breeding and conservation programs of the Russian red cattle genetic resources. The study was funded by RFBR within project No. 20-516-00020
PSXV-8 The study of feeding behavior traits in connection to feed efficiency in duroc boars bred in Russia
Authors: Belous Anna A , Sermyagin Alexander A , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: October 2021

The study of feeding behavior is of particular interest because it is directly related to efficiency of feeding. The aim of our study was to determine the genetic parameters of the feeding behavioral traits in Duroc boars (n = 766) in relation to the feed efficiency based on the analysis of variation components. Genstar and Shauer feeders were used to collect the behavioral data, including daily feed intake (DFI), total daily time spent in feeder (TPD), number of daily visits to feeder (NVD), average duration of each visit (TPV), feed intake per visit (FPV), and feed intake rate (FR). Genetic and environmental variabilities were determined by the mixed model equation using the REMLF90 program. Multiple regression analyses were used to adjust feed conversion rate (FCR) for the duration of the testing period, initial and final body weight, and average daily gain. The average initial body weight was 35.7 kg and the duration of testing period was 78.1 days. Actual FCR values reached 2.20 kg/kg with a phenotypic variability of 26.3%. Moderate values of heritability coefficients (h2) were observed for TPV (h2=0.168), FCR (h2=0.214), and DFI (h2=0.221) traits. The heritability parameters for FPV and TPD traits were higher and accounted to 0.269 and 0.290, respectively. The highest value of h2 was observed for NVD (0.494). Analyses of genetic correlations revealed several interesting findings. The boars, which more often visited feeding stations, spent more time in feeder (r2=+0.536 for NVD/TPD), herewith duration of each visit and feed intake rate were decreased (r2=–0.593 and –0.760 for NVD/TPV and NVD/FR, respectively). Feed conversion rate was positively correlated with TPD (r2=+0.530) and negatively correlated with FR (r2=–0,772). Our research results will be useful for development of artificial selection programs to select Duroc pigs for increased feeding efficiency. The study was supported by RFBR No19-316–90008.
PSX-B-26 Mitotic activity of immune cells in the intestines of piglets in the treatment of gastrointestinal pathology
Authors: Parshin Pavel , Sashnina Larisa , Mikhailov Evgenii , Shabunin Boris , Vorotnikova Svetlana
Published: October 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of a drug based on the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) on intestinal immune cells’ mitotic activity in treating gastrointestinal pathology. Two groups of 40 sick piglets with diarrhea at the age of 5–7 days were formed. The 1st group was the control. Animals of the 2nd group received an intramuscular injection of “Quinokol”(enrofloxacin) at a dose of 0.5 ml / 10 kg once a day for 5 days. The 3d - “Quinokol” at the same dose combined with GM-CSF at a dose of 0.1 ml/kg twice with an interval of 48 hours. From forcedly slaughtered piglets (by Directive 93/119 / EC) with the diarrheal syndrome (n = 4) and from animals of the experimental groups (n = 4), duodenum sites were taken for research. Immunohistochemical study of Ki-67 expression with additional staining with hematoxylin Karratsi was carried out according to the method described by V. Stafford. Cell counting and morphometric changes were performed using the ImageJ software. In preparations from sick piglets and piglets, which were used “Quinokol”, the main mitotic activity was 0.0036 ± 0.00047 and 0.0041 ± 0.00054 mitoses / μm2, respectively (fig 1 - A). Single Ki-67-positive cells were found in the stroma of the villi, vascular walls, and submucosa. In some areas, the bean or rod-shaped nucleus of Ki-67 positive cells was distinguished. At the samples from the 3d group (fig 1 - C, D), a sharp increase in the mitotic activity of immune cells in the stroma of the villi was noted - 0.0067 ± 0.00072 mitoses/μm2 and significantly more than in the 1st and 2nd groups by 64% and 86%, respectively (P < 0.001). The combined use of “Quinokol” with GMC-SF increased cell hyperplasia in the villous stroma, which indicates the activation of local intestinal immunity.
PSI-13 Effects of maternal nutrient restriction and melatonin supplementation on fetal mammary gland vascularity
Authors: DeShazo Emily K , Contreras-Correa Zully E , Sessums Robin , Duncan Thomas H , Lemley Caleb
Published: October 2021

The objective was to determine fetal mammary gland vascularity following dietary melatonin supplementation in late pregnant nutrient restricted Brangus heifers carrying female fetuses from two different seasons (spring calving, n = 12; fall calving, n = 13). Heifers were assigned one of four nutritional treatments at day 160 of gestation; adequate fed (ADQ-CON; 100% NRC; n = 6), nutrient restricted (RES-CON; 60% NRC; n = 6), adequate fed with 20 mg of melatonin (ADQ-MEL; n = 6), and nutrient restricted with 20 mg of melatonin (RES-MEL; n = 7). Fetal mammary glands were collected at day 240 of gestation following Cesarean delivery. Mammary gland vascularity was determined via immunofluorescence staining and analyzed via ANOVA. In spring calving heifers, maternal body weight was decreased (P = 0.002) in RES (528±11 kg) vs ADQ (601±11 kg) fed. Fetal body weight, fetal mammary gland weight, and mammary gland vascularity were not different (P > 0.15) among treatments. In fall calving heifers, a nutrition by treatment interaction (P = 0.048) was observed for maternal body weight, which was increased in ADQ-MEL versus all groups. Fetal body weight and fetal mammary gland weight were not different (P > 0.45) among groups. In fall calving, fetal mammary gland capillary number and average size were not different (P > 0.40) among groups. However, a nutrition by treatment interaction was observed for capillary area (P = 0.05), which was increased in RES-MEL versus ADQ-MEL. In addition, a nutrition by treatment interaction was observed for capillary perimeter (P = 0.001), which was increased in RES-MEL versus all groups. Overall, maternal nutrient restriction and melatonin supplementation did not impact fetal mammary gland vascularity in spring calving heifers; however, melatonin supplementation during nutrient restriction in fall calving heifers may increase fetal mammary gland vascularity. In conclusion, seasonal differences and natural melatonin production may influence melatonin-induced changes in fetal development.
PSI-1 A minimum amount of hydrochloric acid for pig urine collection to inhibit nitrogen volatilization
Authors: Kim Jongkeon , Hong Bokyung , Lee Myung Ja , Kim Beob Gyun G
Published: October 2021

The objectives were to demonstrate that nitrogen volatilization from pig urine can be inhibited by the addition of acids and to determine a minimum amount of HCl for nitrogen preservation in pig urine. In experiment 1, five urine samples were collected and had nitrogen concentrations of 0.29% to 0.68%. Each sample was divided into 2 groups that were supplemented with 100 mL of distilled water and 100 mL of 6 N HCl, respectively. The samples were placed in open containers at room temperature for 10 d. The nitrogen concentration was determined every 2 d. The amount of nitrogen in urine supplemented with distilled water decreased linearly (P < 0.001) with time, whereas that supplemented with 6 N HCl remained constant. In experiment 2, three urine samples with different nitrogen concentration (0.12%, 0.53%, and 0.94%) were added with different amounts of 6 N HCl used to make varying acidity (pH = 0.6, 1.1, 2.2, 4.7, 7.1, and 9.3). All urine samples were placed at a room temperature for 5 d followed by nitrogen analysis. Based on a linear broken-line analysis, nitrogen was not volatilized at a pH less than 5.12 (SE = 0.71), whereas nitrogen was volatilized at a pH greater than 5.12 (r2 = 0.98). An equation was developed for the minimum amount of 6 N HCl in urine to avoid nitrogen volatilization: 6 N HCl in urine (g/L) = 0.11 × nitrogen in urine (g/L) + 0.2 with r2 = 0.93 and P < 0.01. Assuming that up to 200 gram of nitrogen is excreted for 5 d, the addition of 100 mL of 6 N HCl to the urine collection container can inhibit nitrogen volatilization. Taken together, a minimum of 100 mL of 6 N HCl is recommended for 5 day-total collection of pig urine.
PSI-18 Identifying genetic variants associated with grazing, walking, and slope use of cattle experiencing mild heat load
Authors: Stegemiller Morgan R , Ellison Melinda J , Hall John B , Sprinkle James E , Murdoch Brenda M
Published: October 2021

Rangeland is a valuable resource that can allow producers to cost effectively provide nutrients for grazing cattle. However, grazing behavior of cattle is adversely affected when the temperature humidity index is greater than 72. It is possible to select cattle that exhibit efficient grazing behavior even under mild heat stress. This study evaluated genetic associations with grazing behavior to help producers identify cows that will effectively use their rangeland pastures. Using genome-wide associations, this study identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with grazing time, walking time and max slope that cattle utilized while experiencing mild heat load. Data were collected from Angus X Hereford 2-year-old beef cows from UI herd over two years (37 grazing and walking minutes, 38 max slope). Genotypes were obtained using a Bovine GGP 50K SNP marker array and 41,686 markers were used in the analyses. Two SNPs on chromosome 11 are significantly (P = 5.01e-7, P = 6.46e-7) associated with grazing minutes and explain 0.52 proportion of variance (PVE). A SNP on chromosome 3 is significant for walking minutes (P=1.91e-6) with a PVE of 0.48. Additionally, a SNP on chromosome 14 is significantly (P = 8.50e-6) associated with max slope and has a PVE of 0.43. This ongoing project identified significant associations with grazing and walking minutes and maximum slope. This research will be strengthened with the addition of more animals over successive years. Some cattle spend more time grazing, walking, or at a higher elevation in mild heat load. Identifying genetic variants associated with grazing time, walking time, and maximum slope use while under heat stress can enable producers to select for cattle that best fit the rangeland available to them.
PSIV-1 A comparison of chromatography methods to estimate ruminal VFA concentrations
Authors: D’Souza Genevieve M , Harvey Kelsey , Batista Luiz Fernando Dias , Cooke Reinaldo F , Tedeschi Luis O
Published: October 2021

The objective of this study was to describe two chromatography equipment and their methods (EM) and to evaluate their adequacy in estimating ruminal volatile fatty acid concentrations (VFA). Adequacy was assessed through precision and accuracy using three standard mixtures of known acetate, propionate, and butyrate concentrations. The standard mixtures were prepared for VFA analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC). Each mixture was injected ten times into each EM. The comparison was assessed with rumen fluid samples from four cannulated steers offered three diets at 2% BW. Diet A simulated a forage-based diet offered to cattle during the winter. Diet B simulated a grower-type diet offered to weaned calves. Diet C simulated a finisher-type diet offered to finishing cattle. Rumen fluid was collected three hours after the morning feeding for seven days for each diet and strained through 8 μm porosity fiberglass wool. Two 2-mL aliquots were stored at -20°C for HPLC analysis, while two 8-mL aliquots were diluted with 2 mL of 25% meta-phosphoric acid and stored at -20°C for GC analysis. Chromatograms without a flat baseline were removed from the analysis. For the adequacy evaluation, HPLC (R2 = 0.997; Cb = 0.874) was more precise and accurate at estimating total VFA than GC (R2 = 0.447; Cb = 0.763). When compared with the standards, HPLC estimated less (P < 0.001) total VFA (98.8 ± 10.3 mM) than GC (110.5 ± 17.4 mM). Concentrations for acetate, propionate, and butyrate in rumen fluid samples were estimated for each EM and analyzed using a random coefficients model. Similarly, estimates for acetate, propionate, and butyrate were less for HPLC than GC (P ≤ 0.002). VFA estimation differs depending on EM chosen. Further research should identify the source of difference in VFA estimation from each EM.
PSIV-3 Canine olfaction as a disease detection technology: A systematic review
Authors: Juge Aiden E , Daigle Courtney L
Published: October 2021

Capitalizing on canine olfactory capacity is a promising strategy for detecting and diagnosing human, animal, and plant diseases. The purpose of this review was to assess the extent of current research in canine disease detection. In this systematic review, multiple databases were searched for studies in which dogs were trained to detect diseases or health conditions. Following PRISMA guidelines, 1689 studies were screened and 50 relevant studies identified. The majority of studies (n = 31, 66%) took place in Europe. Lung cancer (n = 11, 22%), prostate cancer (n = 8, 16%), and breast cancer (n = 7, 14%) were the most frequently-studied conditions. Urine (n = 17, 34%) and breath (n = 9, 18%) were the most common sample types. Across all studies, 166 unique detection dogs were tested. The most numerous breed was Labrador Retrievers (n = 24, 14.46%). The median number of dogs per study was 2 (range: 1–20). To analyze experimental design and results, studies including multiple test paradigms were divided into sub-studies (n = 90). In 84.4% of sub-studies (n = 76), dogs were presented with sets of samples and 74.4% (n = 67) reported a constant number of samples per trial. The median number of samples per trial was 7 (range: 2–100). Of the sub-studies reporting a fixed number of positive samples (range: 1–10; n = 55), 87% (n = 48) presented one positive sample per trial. A plurality of sub-studies (n = 44, 49%) presented samples in a lineup. Sensitivity (median: 0.90; range: 0.13 to 1.0; n = 77) and specificity (median: 0.96; range: 0.08 to 1.0; n = 69) were the predominant measures of detection success, although reporting strategies were inconsistent. Dogs appear to have the capacity to detect disease via olfaction; yet the nascent nature of this discipline yields little consistency across studies.