bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
214 Dietary Supplementation with a Combination of Valine and Isoleucine Annuls the Negative Effects of Very Low Protein Diets on Growth and Gut Development of Young Pigs
Authors: Habibi Mohammad , Goodarzi Parniyan , Shili Cedrick N N , Sutton Julia , Wileman Caitlyn , Kim Dohyung Markus , Lin Dingbo , Pezeshki Adel
Published: October 2021

Increased feed cost, post-weaning diarrhea, and nitrogen excretion are challenging the modern swine industry. Very low-protein (LP) diets (>4% units reduced protein) may reduce feed cost, diarrhea and nitrogen excretion; however, these diets impair growth performance of pigs despite supplementation of limiting amino acids (i.e., lysine, threonine, methionine and tryptophan). The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of valine, isoleucine and combination of both supplemented to VLP diet on growth, thermal radiation, and gut development in young pigs. Forty three-week-old weaned barrows were weighed (6.75 ± 0.14 kg) and randomly assigned to five groups (8 pigs/group) including: 1) standard diet or positive control (PC), 2) LP diet, 3) LP + valine (LPV), 4) LP + isoleucine (LPI) and 5) LP + both valine and isoleucine (LPVI) for five weeks. Daily feed intake and weekly growth characteristics were measured and weekly thermal images were captured. All pigs were euthanized at week 5 and tissue samples collected. All data were analyzed with univariate GLM followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test (SPSS®). Compared to PC, final body weight, average daily gain, average daily protein intake and gain:feed ratio were reduced in LP group, but feeding pigs with LPVI partially or completely recovered these parameters. Pigs fed with LPVI had higher thermal radiation than those fed with PC, LP, and LPI on days 28 and 35 of study and had a greater the area under the curve for thermal radiation than LP and LPI. Duodenal villus width and crypt depth, and ileal villus height were decreased in LP relative to PC, but LPVI either partially or fully recovered these measurements. In conclusion, supplementing a combination of valine and isoleucine recovered the negative effects of very low-protein diets on growth performance and gut development, but increased the thermal radiation in weaned pigs.
217 Comparative Effects of Dietary Methionine and Cysteine Supplementation on Redox Status and Intestinal Integrity in Immunologically Challenged-weaned Pigs
Authors: Koo Bonjin , Yang Chengbo , Nyachoti Martin
Published: October 2021

The aim was to investigate the effects of dietary Met and Cys supplementation in immunologically challenged-weaned pigs. Forty weaned piglets (6.51 ± 0.29 kg) were randomly allocated to five treatments and fed the assigned diets for 9 days. The treatments included: (1) sham-challenged control (SCC), (2) challenged control (CC), (3) MET (CC + 0.1% DL-Met supplementation), (4) CYS (CC + 0.1% L-Cys supplementation), and (5) MET+CYS (CC + 0.1% DL-Met and 0.1% L-Cys supplementation). Piglets were intramuscularly injected with either lipopolysaccharides (LPS; 30 μg/kg) or saline solution on day 7. All data were analyzed using single degree of freedom contrasts in the mixed procedure of SAS to test the effect of LPS challenge, Met supplementation, Cys supplementation, and Met × Cys supplementation. The CC group had lower (P < 0.05) villi height and villi surface area and glutathione (GSH) concentration and higher (P < 0.05) flux of 4-kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FD4) in the jejunum than SCC group. Dietary Cys supplementation increased (P < 0.05) villi surface area, GSH concentration and reduced GSH: oxidized GSH and decreased (P < 0.05) the flux of FD4 in the jejunum. Dietary Met supplementation enhanced (P < 0.05) hepatic GSH content. Pigs in the MET group had greater mRNA abundance of IL-6 and IL-10 (P < 0.05) and lower serum IL-8 concentration than those in the CC group. There were Met × Cys interactions (P < 0.05) in serum IL-4 and IL-8 concentrations and hepatic Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, dietary L-Cys supplementation restored intestinal integrity and GSH concentration that were affected by LPS challenge. Dietary DL-Met supplementation improved hepatic GSH and reduced systemic inflammatory response, but antagonistic interaction with dietary Cys supplementation was observed in inflammatory response and redox status.
224 Amino Acid Imbalance with Excess Methionine in Late-finishing Pigs: Effects on Performance and Carcass Quality
Authors: Edmonds Michael S , Smith James W
Published: October 2021

Limitations in harvest facility capacity can necessitate feeding programs to slow growth rate in late-finishing pigs. In Trial 1, six dietary regimens were used with 423 pigs (initial weight, 109 kg) randomly allotted in a 35 d study. The regimens consisted of: 1) Con (11.7% CP diet), 2) Low Protein (LP 8.8% CP), 3) Methionine (Met) 1% (LP plus 1% added Met for 35 d), 4) Met 1–1.8% (LP plus 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6 and 1.8% added Met for d 0–7, 7–14, 14–21, 21–28 and 28–35 d, respectively), 5) Met 2% (LP plus 2% added Met for 35 d) and 6) Met 1.5–2.3% (LP plus 1.5, 1.7, 1.9, 2.1 and 2.3%, added Met for d 0–7, 7–14, 14–21, 21–28 and 28–35 d, respectively). Pigs on Met 1% had reduced overall ADG and ADFI (P < 0.05) with similar G:F vs. pigs on LP. Compared to pigs on Met 1%, pigs on Met 1–1.8%, Met 2%, and Met 1.5–2.3% had reduced (P < 0.05) ADG of 28, 54 and 53%, respectively; and decreased (P < 0.05) ADFI of 12, 26 and 26%, respectively. In Trial 2, three regimens were used with 393 pigs (initial weight, 109 kg) in a 35 d study. The regimens consisted of 1) Met 2%, 2) Met 1.5–2.3% and 3) Met 2.0–2.8% (LP plus 2.0, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6 and 2.8% added Met for d 0–7, 7–14, 14–21, 21–28 and 28–35 d, respectively). Regimens 1 and 2 were identical to Trial 1. Overall, pigs on Met 1.5–2.3% had ADG and ADFI which were greater (P < 0.001) compared to pigs on Met 2%. Pigs on Met 2–2.8% had an overall ADG and ADFI which were less (P < 0.05) than those pigs on Met 2%. These data suggest that growth can be manipulated with excess Met.
227 Awardee Talk: Advances in Lipid Nutrition of Modern Sows
Authors: van Heugten Eric
Published: October 2021

The modern lactating sow is a highly productive female capable of producing large quantities of milk to support large, rapidly growing litters. The associated high energy and nutritional demands are challenging to meet, especially during heat stress, when tissue loss is extensive. Supplemental lipids are efficient energy sources with a high energy density and low heat increment associated with digestion and metabolism. Besides serving as concentrated energy sources, unsaturated lipids are important sources of essential fatty acids (EFA; linoleic acid, C18:2n-6; and α-linolenic acid, C18:3n-3). These EFA are precursors of various prostanoids that are important regulators of reproductive processes. Lactating sows fed diets devoid of supplemental lipids exhibited poor reproduction but was significantly improved by inclusion of only 2% unsaturated lipids. It was shown that lactation diets were deficient in both linoleic and α-linolenic acid and tissue reserves were inadequate in mature sows. A multi-trial meta-analysis showed that more sows were successfully bred and maintained pregnancy when they consumed supplemental linoleic acid. Further, increased linoleic acid intake during lactation progressively reduced the number of sows removed from the herd due to reproductive failure (sows not returning to estrus, returning to estrus after breeding, pregnancy loss). Based on dose-response curves, the near maximum response was achieved when sows consumed a minimum of 125 g/d of linoleic acid and 10 g/d of α-linolenic acid during lactation. Recent studies also demonstrated improved subsequent reproduction with supplemental linoleic and α-linolenic acid during lactation, but not during the post-weaning period. Responses appeared to be related to heavier fetoplacental units, elevated allantoic fluid volume, and higher embryo survival measured on day 30 of gestation in sows supplemented with linoleic acid during lactation and early gestation. Research demonstrated the importance of both EFA in lactating sows and their critical role in improving reproduction, thus resolving seasonal anestrus.
243 Relationship Among Granulosa Cell Gnrh-i, -II, and Receptor Mrna Abundance and Follicular Fluid Steroid Hormone Concentrations of Bovine Antral Follicles at Specific Stages of Follicular Development
Authors: Rich Jerica J , Northrop-Albrecht Emmalee J , Epperson Kaitlin M , Zoca Saulo Menegatti , Perkins Stephanie D , Daly Russell F , Cushman Robert A , Perry George A
Published: October 2021

Transcript abundance of two forms of GnRH and its receptor have been characterized in bovine ovaries. The objective was to investigate the relationship of GnRH-1, GnRH-2, GnRH-R, intrafollicular estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) during follicular development. Ovaries were collected from beef cows at specific stages of follicular development [pre-selection (PRE, n = 9), post-selection (POST, n = 9), and post-selection 24h after luteal regression (PG, n = 9)]. The largest follicle per stage was aspirated to obtain granulosa cells (GC) and follicular fluid (FF). Total cellular RNA was extracted from GC and RT-PCR was performed for GnRH-1, GnRH-2, GnRH-R and GAPDH. Radioimmunoassays were performed to determine FF concentrations of E2 and P4. Data were analyzed using the MIXED and REG procedures in SAS. There was no difference (P ≥ 0.23) in mRNA abundance of GnRH-2, GnRH-R or FF concentrations of P4 across follicular stages. There was an effect of stage on FF E2 (PRE: 17,925±20,273, POST: 28,458±21,503, and PG: 252,616±21,503 pg/mL; P < 0.01). Stage affected GnRH-1 mRNA abundance (PRE: 2.28±0.55, POST: 0.92±0.55, and PG: 0.11±0.55; P = 0.03). There was no relationship of GnRH-1 and GnRH-2 mRNA abundance or effect of FF P4 on GnRH-R mRNA abundance (P ≥ 0.23). There was no effect of FF P4 on GnRH-1 mRNA abundance (P = 0.68). There was no effect of FF E2 on GnRH-2 mRNA abundance (P = 0.66). As FF E2 increased GnRH-R mRNA abundance tended to increase (P = 0.10;r2=0.13). As FF P4 concentrations increased GnRH-2 mRNA abundance tended to decrease (P = 0.09;r2=0.12). As FF E2 increased GnRH-1 mRNA abundance decreased (P = 0.02;r2=0.20). In conclusion, there were differences in peptide and receptor mRNA abundance of GnRH in relation to FF E2 and P4 at specific stages of follicular development. This is supportive of a regulatory relationship between ovarian GnRH and steroidogenesis. This work is supported by AFRI Grant No.2018-67016-27578 from USDA. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
242 Divergent Selection for Early Puberty Impacts KNDy Neuron Gene Expression in Gilts
Authors: Harlow KaLynn , Renwick Allison , Shuping Sydney , Sommer Jeff , Knauer Mark , Nestor Casey
Published: October 2021

Advancing gilt puberty onset is financially desirable for swine production. Neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) that co-express kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin (i.e. KNDy cells) are believed to control gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, but their role in gilt pubertal development is unknown. We hypothesized that puberty onset in gilts would coincide with greater expression of mRNA for kisspeptin and NKB, and less expression of dynorphin. Using fluorescent in situ hybridization (RNAscope), we examined expression of kisspeptin, NKB, and dynorphin in pre- and postpubertal gilts from two genetic lines divergently selected for age at puberty. Prepubertal (n = 6/line) and postpubertal (n = 6/line) gilts were used, and postpubertal animals all received Matrix (0.22% altrenogest) orally for 14 days with tissue collection two days after the final dose. Gilts were euthanized and heads were perfused with 8 L of 4% paraformaldehyde (PFA). Hypothalamic brain tissue was removed, placed in 4% PFA for 24 hrs, and then in 20% sucrose until sectioning (50 µm). Sectioned tissue was stored in cryopreservative at -20°C until RNAscope. Data were analyzed using SAS software (Version 9.4, SAS Institute, Cary NC) with significance declared at P < 0.05. We determined mRNA expression for kisspeptin was not different between groups (P > 0.05). In addition, we found that mRNA expression for NKB was higher in prepubertal gilts compared to postpubertal gilts (P < 0.05) but was not different between lines; mRNA expression was lowest in postpubertal late puberty gilts. Furthermore, total number of dynorphin cells were higher in prepubertal gilts compared to postpubertal gilts (P < 0.05), while individual cell mRNA expression for dynorphin was greatest in postpubertal early puberty gilts (P < 0.05). Taken together, we suggest puberty onset in gilts is more dependent on NKB and dynorphin than kisspeptin.
251 Dietary Tryptophan Supplementation Improves Fat and Glucose Metabolism in Low Birthweight Piglets
Authors: Goodarzi Parniyan , Habibi Mohammad , Roberts Kennedy , Sutton Julia , Shili Cedrick N N , Pezeshki Adel
Published: October 2021

Low birthweight (LBW) is associated with complications such as insulin resistance, obesity and metabolic disturbances of glucose and fat metabolism in early life. Dietary tryptophan (Trp) has been shown to reduce liver fat and suppress hyperglycemia in different species. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of dietary Trp on growth and glucose and fat metabolism in LBW pigs. Piglets (7-days old) weighing < 2 kg were considered as LBW while those weighting > 2 kg were considered as normal birthweight (NBW) and randomly allocated to 4 milk-replacer based treatments (n = 7–8): 1) NBW-0% Trp (NBW-T0), 2) LBW-0% Trp (LBW-T0), 3) LBW-0.4% Trp (LBW-T0.4), and 4) LBW-0.8% Trp (LBW-T0.8) for 3 weeks. Growth parameters and body weight were measured biweekly. At week 3, blood and tissue samples were collected in overnight-fasted pigs after a meal test. The mRNA and protein abundance of key glucose and lipid metabolism markers were determined using qPCR and western blot, respectively. Univariate GLM with Dunnett’s post-hoc test (SPSS®) was used to analyze the data. Growth parameters did not change among groups. Plasma triglycerides concentration was lower in LBW-T0.4 and LBW-T0.8 compared to LBW-T0. Blood glucose was lower in LBW-T0.8 than LBW-T0 at 60 min following the meal test. LBW-T0.8 had a lower transcript and protein abundance of liver glucose transporter-2 relative to LBW-T0. Compared to LBW-T0, LBW-T0.8 had a higher mRNA abundance of glucokinase and tended to have a lower transcript of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in liver. Relative to LBW-T0, LBW-T0.4 tended to have a lower protein abundance of sodium-glucose co-transporter 1 in jejunum. Compared to LBW-T0, LBW-T0.4 and LBW-T0.8 had a lower transcript of liver acetyl-CoA carboxylase and LBW-T0.4 had a higher transcript of liver 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase. In conclusion, Trp supplementation reduced the lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis, but increased the glycolysis in LBW piglets.
248 Maternal Nutrient Restriction During Mid-gestation Decreases Uteroplacental Release and Fetal Uptake of Essential Amino Acids in Sheep
Authors: Trotta Ronald J , Vasquez-Hidalgo Manuel A , Smith Brandon I , Reed Sarah A , Govoni Kristen E , Vonnahme Kimberly A , Swanson Kendall C
Published: October 2021

To examine the effects of maternal nutrient restriction on net uteroplacental flux during mid-gestation, 14 singleton ewes (48.2 ± 4.0 kg body weight) were fed 100% (control; CON; n = 7) or 60% of nutrient requirements (restricted; RES; n = 7) from day 50–90 (mid-gestation). On day 90, uteroplacental blood flow was measured via Doppler ultrasonography and blood samples were collected from the femoral artery, uterine vein, umbilical artery, and umbilical vein. Blood vessel glucose and amino acids (AA) concentrations were measured and arterial-venous (uterine, AV; fetal, va) differences and net fluxes were calculated. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS for effects of treatment. Nutrient restriction during mid-gestation did not influence (P ≥ 0.17) uterine or umbilical blood flows. Uterine AV and fetal va differences of total, essential, and nonessential AA were not influenced (P > 0.10) by nutrient restriction. Nutrient restriction decreased (P ≤ 0.05) uterine and uteroplacental release of total AA and tended to decrease (P = 0.07) total AA uptake by the fetus. Uteroplacental release and fetal uptake of essential AA were decreased (P = 0.03) with RES by 53.4% and 45%, respectively. Uterine and uteroplacental release of nonessential AA were decreased (P = 0.03) with RES but, fetal uptake was not affected (P = 0.14). Nutrient restriction decreased (P ≤ 0.04) fetal uptake of methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, and valine and tended to decrease (P ≤ 0.10) fetal uptake of isoleucine, leucine, and tryptophan. Umbilical artery glucose concentrations were 32% lesser (P = 0.01) with RES and RES tended to increase (P = 0.08) fetal glucose uptake. Nutrient restriction during mid-gestation altered uteroplacental and fetal flux of AA in the current study. The results may indicate that fetal metabolism shifts to adapt to reduced AA supply which results in greater glucose utilization.
257 Awardee Talk: Pursuit of Novel Factors that Regulate Ovarian Follicular Function
Authors: Spicer Leon J
Published: October 2021

As follicles grow, theca cells (TC) and granulosa cells (GC) must proliferate with minimal differentiation while thecal vascularization increases so that follicles do not prematurely ovulate or luteinize before the oocyte is fully mature. In the early 2000s we used Affymetrix microarrays to discover several unique genes involved in ovarian follicular development. Thrombospondin and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 2 receptor genes were stimulated by IGF1 in porcine GC. We compared GC gene expression in bovine cystic versus normal follicles and discovered several novel genes including Indian hedgehog protein (IHH), FGF9, brain ribonuclease (BRB), and G protein-coupled receptor 34 (GPR34), leading to identification of roles for these proteins in ovarian follicular development. During the past 10 years, follow-up TC microarray and mechanistic studies have identified FGF9 control of cell cycle proteins, tight junction proteins, and microRNA 221 (MIR221), and that the mitogenic and steroidogenic responses to the major trophic hormones of the ovary (including IGF1, LH and FSH) are altered by overexpression of MIR221 in GC. In addition, we discovered that: 1) FGF9 stimulates GC and TC mitosis while inhibiting steroidogenesis; 2) FGF9 induces E2 transcription factor (E2F)-1, E2F-8 and cyclin D1 (CCND1), and that both IGF1 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) synergize with FGF9 to further induce E2F8 and CCND1 mRNA; 3) FGF9 induces the nuclear protein UHRF1; and 4) an E2F inhibitor blocks the stimulatory and inhibitory effects of FGF9 on GC proliferation and steroidogenesis, respectively, and down-regulates UHRF1 mRNA and up-regulates VEGFA mRNA. Thus, aberrant production of FGF9 and the factors it induces/inhibits may lead to vascular dysfunction and ovarian disorders such as ovarian cysts. With additional research, knowledge about these newly identified factors may be used to help the livestock industry improve reproductive efficiency via new treatments for estrous synchronization, superovulation and cystic ovaries.
276 Relationship Between Water Use Efficiency and Feedlot Steer Performance and Health
Authors: Bruno Kelsey , Ahlberg-Smith Cashley , McPhillips Levi J , Meador Heather , Taylor Alex , Calvo-Lorenzo Michelle S , Desilva Udaya , Krehbiel Clint , Mateesku Raluca , Place Sara , Rolf Megan M , VanOverbeke Deb , Wilson Blake K , Richards Chris
Published: October 2021

As climate change progresses, it is expected that water availability for livestock production will be challenged due to competition from human population growth and use by other agricultural sectors. The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in animal performance and health between feedlot steers with differing water use efficiencies. Four groups of steers from numerous sources (n = 469) were randomly allocated to 2 body weight (BW) blocks. Individual feed and water intake (WI) were measured daily using an Insentec RIC feeding system. Steers had ad libitum access to feed and water for 70 d (BAS). After a 28 d step-down period, steers were maintained at 50% of ad libitum water consumption for 42 d (RST) while feed continued to be offered ad libitum. Based on average daily water intake during BAS, steers were sorted into low, medium, or high-water use efficiency (LWE, MWE, or HWE) using k-means clustering. Every 14 d BW was collected in addition to blood samples for complete blood counts. Body weight was used to evaluate ADG and G:F. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with the model statement including effects of water use efficiency, day, and the interaction. Body weights were greater in HWE than MWE and LWE at the end of BAS and RST (P < 0.01). Steer ADG and G:F were greater in HWE compared to MWE and LWE (P < 0.01)during BAS, but not different during RST (P > 0.54). Hematocrit and red blood cell counts initially increased during water restriction step down, and then returned to normal levels (P < 0.01); these values were also greater in HWE compared to MWE and LWE (P < 0.01). All steers adapted to limited water access similarly and the degree of health differences had little clinical significance.
524 Late-Breaking: Growth Performance of Neonatal Calves Fed Milk Replacer 2 versus 3 Times per Day
Authors: Casper David P , Olagunju Lydia , Anele Uchenna , Bacon Abigayle
Published: October 2021

Several calf studies demonstrate advantages when feeding greater protein and/or milk solids amounts, however studies comparing 2x/d versus 3x/d feeding are limited. Forty 2- to 5-d old Holstein bull calves were blocked by body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments. Treatments were: 1) 2X: milk replacer (MR) fed 2x/d; and 2) 3X: MR fed 3x/d. The MR was fed at 15% solids at 0630 and 1800 h and the 3rd 3X feeding was at 1200 h. 2X calves were fed MR at 0.567 kg/d for d 1–14, increased to 0.85 kg/d for d 15–35, and reduced to 1x/d at 0.425 kg/d for d 36–42 for the 42 d study. 3X calves were fed MR 0.851 kg/d for d 1–14, increased to 1.275 kg/d for d 15–35, and reduced to 1x/d at 0.425 kg/d for d 36–42. Calf starter (CS) and water were free choice. Initial BW was a significant (P < 0.01) covariate and BW (55.6 and 57.3 kg for 2X and 3X, respectively) tended (P < 0.09) to be greater for calves fed 3X compared with 2X fed calves, but BW gains (25.5 and 27.7 kg) were similar (P > 0.10). A treatment by week interaction (P < 0.01) demonstrated variable BW gains. Intake of CS (0.28 and 0.13 kg/d) was approximately 63% lower (P < 0.04) for calves fed 3X compared with calves fed 2X. Feed conversions (0.65 and 0.60 kg/kg) were greater (P < 0.04) for calves fed 2X compared with calves fed 3X. Calves fed 2X had less scours (fecal score=0; 34.3 and 29.7 d) compared with 3X fed calves. Providing an additional MR feeding demonstrated minimal BW gains. Providing a 3rd daily feeding greatly reduces CS intake and inhibits the transition needed for weaning calves.
543 Late-Breaking: Development of a Model to Predict Dietary Metabolizable Energy from Digestible Energy in Beef Cattle
Authors: Seo Seongwon , Kang Kyewon , Jeon Seoyoung , Tedeschi Luis O
Published: October 2021

We aimed to assess whether predicting the metabolizable energy (ME) to digestible energy (DE) ratio (MDR), rather than a prediction of ME with DE, is feasible and to develop a model equation to predict MDR in beef cattle. For this, we constructed a literature database based on published data. A meta-analysis was conducted with 306 means from 69 studies containing both dietary DE and ME concentrations measured by calorimetry to test whether the exclusion of the y-intercept is adequate in the linear relationship between DE and ME. A random coefficient model with study as the random variable was used to develop equations to predict MDR in growing and finishing beef cattle. The developed equations were evaluated with other published equations. The no-intercept linear equation represented the relationship between DE and ME more appropriately than the equation with a y-intercept. Within our growing and finishing cattle data, the animal’s physiological stage was not a significant variable affecting MDR after accounting for the study effect (P = 0.213). The mean (± SE) of MDR was 0.849 (± 0.0063). Two linear equations with the dry matter intake and content of several dietary nutrients were developed to predict MDR. When using these equations, the observed ME was predicted with high precision (R2 = 0.92). The model accuracy was also high, as shown by the high concordance correlation coefficient (> 0.95) and small root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), less than 5% of the observed mean. Moreover, a significant portion of the RMSEP was due to random bias (> 93%), without mean or slope bias (P > 0.05). We concluded that dietary ME in beef cattle could be accurately estimated from dietary DE and its conversion factor, MDR, using the two equations developed in this study.
290 Encapsulated Sodium Butyrate (Ultramix GF) for Transitioning Neonatal Calves from Milk to Calf Starter
Authors: Casper David P , Klanderman Keith , Moreland Steven
Published: October 2021

Butyrate (UltraMix GF; Adisseo) is known to enhance ruminal papillae development for transitioning calves to dry feed. The hypothesis was that butyrate would be beneficial to neonatal calf growth performance. Eighty 2- to 5-d old Holstein bull calves were assigned to one of 2 treatments using a randomized complete block design. Treatments were: 1) control: no butyrate; or 2) butyrate: 0.3% butyrate added to milk replacer (MR). Calves were fed 2x/d at 0630 and 1800 h along with free choice water and a 22% CP mini-pelleted calf starter (CS). The MR was fed at 0.567 kg/d for d 1–14, then increased to 0.85 kg/d for d 15–42, and feeding reduced to 1x/d for d 42–49 with weaning occurring after the 49-d experimental period. Calves fed butyrate demonstrated greater (P < 0.04) ending body weight (BW; 54.7 and 56.2 kg, for control and butyrate, respectively), BW gain (29.0 and 31.7 kg), and average daily gains (ADG; 591.3 and 647.7 g/d), compared with calves fed control. Dry matter intake (DMI) was similar (P > 0.10) for both treatments, but the number of d required for calves to consume 0.9 kg CS for 3 consecutive days (47.3 and 45.7 d) was lower (P < 0.05) for calves fed butyrate compared with calves fed control. Feed conversions were improved (P < 0.05) for calves fed butyrate (0.53 and 0.58 kg/kg) compared with calves fed control. At the end of the 49-d study, withers height tended (P < 0.10) to be greater for calves fed butyrate (85.2 and 86.0 cm) compared with calves fed control, while the remaining frame measurements (hip height, hip width, body length, and heart girth) and fecal scores were similar (P > 0.10) for calves fed both treatments. Feeding neonatal calves butyrate in the MR improved growth performance and reduced the days to transition calves to CS.
289 Phytogenic Feed Additives as a Potential Strategy to Mitigate the Negative Effects of Heat Stress in Growing Heifers
Authors: Ramirez Shelby M , Wickramasinghe Janaka , Stepanchenko Nadiia , Oconitrillo Maria , Silva Jayamuni , Goetz Brady M , Abeyta Megan A , Murugesan Raj , Tacconia Antonia , Baumgard Lance H , Appuhamy Ranga
Published: October 2021

Phytogenic feed additives that contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may have potential to reduce inflammation and oxidation observed during bouts of heat stress. The trial objective was to determine the effects of a phytogenic feed additive on markers of stress in heifers subjected to diurnal heat stress (dHS). Eighteen Holstein and four Jersey heifers (5–6 months of age; d1 BW=205±9 kg) were assigned to two dietary treatments (n = 11) based on breed and age; 1) a basal TMR diet (CTL), 2) CTL supplemented with 0.25 g/head/d of a proprietary blend of phytogenics (PFA; BIOMIN America, Inc., Overland Park, KS). Heifers were housed individually and fed their respective treatments for 14d prior to dHS (d-14-1), subjected dHS (d1-7), and followed through a recovery period (d8-11). Weights were collected at d1 (baseline), d7 (end of dHS), and d11 (end of recovery). The temperature set point was assigned at 33°C from 0900 to 2100 h and allowed to equilibrate with outside temperature during night (24°C) for a total of 7d dHS. Total DMI (tDMI) and DMI from 0900 to 2100 h (hsDMI) were recorded daily. Serum was collected at d1, 2, 7 and 11 to determine effect of treatment on markers of oxidation, inflammation, and stress. Treatment effects were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS with treatment and time as fixed effects and heifer as a random effect. Temperature humidity index during dHS was greater during the day (84.5) versus night (73.3). There were no treatment differences (P>0.05) in d 0–11 on ADG, ADFI, or GF between treatments. However, PFA numerically increased hsDMI, reduced (P< 0.05) haptoglobin and tended to reduce (P< 0.10) lipopolysaccharide binding protein compared with CTL. Overall, dietary PFA may be a potential strategy to mitigate the stresses that heifers experience during dHS.
296 Effects of Phytogenic Additives Combinations on in vitro Methane Production and Ruminal Fermentation
Authors: Vera Nelson , Suescun-Ospina Sandra , Astudillo Rita , Muñoz Antonia , Allende Rodrigo , Avila-Stagno Jorge
Published: October 2021

Replacing synthetic feed additives by plant secondary metabolites (PSM) as essential oils, saponins and tannins has been proposed, due to their potential to reduce methane (CH4) emissions, without adverse effects on ruminal fermentation. This study aimed to evaluate the use of oregano essential oil (OR), quillaja saponin (QS), and quebracho tannin (QT) extracts and their combinations as feed additives on in vitro CH4 production and rumen fermentation parameters. The design was an incomplete factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block with seven treatments using batch culture. Dietary treatments were: control (CON), without plant extracts; OR (0.07% dry matter [DM] basis of the diet); QS (0.05% DM); QT (1.00% DM); and binary combinations QT+QS (1.00 and 0.05% DM, respectively); OR+QS (0.07 and 0.05% DM, respectively); and OR+QT (0.07 and 1.00% DM, respectively). The forage to concentrate ratio was 51:49. Forage was composed of corn silage (42.0%) and perennial ryegrass and white clover hay (9.0%); concentrate was based on high–moisture corn (33.0%), soybean meal (15.0%), vitamin and mineral salt (1%). All combinations decreased the net CH4 and its production (P ≤ 0.038 and P ≤ 0.027, respectively). However, the interaction between QT and QS decreased CH4 yield (P = 0.046), whereas OR and QS interaction, trended to decreased CH4 yield (P = 0.068) and the in vitro DM disappearance (IVDMD; P = 0.055). In contrast, the interaction between OR and QT decreased the IVDMD (P = 0.036). The gas output, partitioning factor and pH, were unaffected (P ≥ 0.066) by PSM, separately or in combinations. The results suggest that QT+QS is the best PSM combination to reduce the amount of CH4 per g DM degraded without adversely impacting rumen fermentation and diet digestibility. Although OR+QT or OR+QS are also an alternative to reduce CH4, its combination may also reduce diet digestibility.
303 Effects of Supplementing Plexomin Zn™ on Post-transit Growth Performance and Plasma Zn and Serum Lactate Concentrations of Beef Steers
Authors: Heiderscheit Katie J , Hansen Stephanie L
Published: October 2021

To determine effects of supplemental Zn on post-transit growth and plasma Zn and serum lactate concentrations, 54 Angus-cross steers (297 kg ± 12) were stratified by body weight to nine GrowSafe-equipped pens. Treatments began 25 d prior to transit and included: control (CON; no supplemental Zn), industry (IND; 70 mg supplemental Zn/kg DM), and supranutritional Zn (SUPZN; 120 mg supplemental Zn/kg DM). Supplemental Zn was provided as bis-glycinate bound Zn (Plexomin Zn; Phytobiotics North America, Cary, NC). On d 0, steers were loaded into a commercial trailer and transported 18 h (1,822 km). Individual BW were recorded on d -26, -25, -1, 0 (pre-transit), 1 (post-transit), 6, 27, and 28. Blood was collected on d -1, 1, 6, and 28. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed of SAS with fixed effect of diet and steer as the experimental unit (n = 18 steers per treatment). Blood measures were analyzed as repeated measures with the repeated effect of day. Percent of pre-transit dry matter intake (DMI) was calculated relative to DMI for the 5 days prior to transit. Plasma Zn concentrations were greater in IND and SUPZN than CON (P = 0.01) and were greater on d 1 than d -1, 6, and 27 (P < 0.01). By d 2, both IND and SUPZN returned to pre-transit DMI levels while CON did not (P = 0.01). Further, DMI from d 1 to 28 was greatest in IND, intermediate in SUPZN, and least in CON (P = 0.04). Average daily gain from d 6 to 28 linearly improved with increasing Zn supplementation (P = 0.02). Regardless of treatment, serum lactate concentrations were greater post-transit compared to pre-transit values (P = 0.02). Steers supplemented dietary Zn recovered DMI faster and had greater ADG after a transit event.
302 Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation and Rate of Gain in Beef Heifers: Effects on Fetal Trace Mineral Reserves at Day 83 of Gestation
Authors: Menezes Ana Clara B , McCarthy Kacie L L , Kassetas Cierrah , Baumgaertner Friederike , Kirsch James D , Dorsam Sheri T T , Neville Tammi L L , Ward Alison K K , Borowicz Pawel P P , Reynolds Lawrence P P , Sedivec Kevin K K , Forcherio J Chris , Scott Ronald , Caton Joel , Dahlen Carl R
Published: October 2021

Thirty-five crossbred Angus heifers (body weight = 359.5 >± 7.1 kg) were randomly assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial design to evaluate the effects of vitamin and mineral supplementation [VMSUP; supplemented (VTM) vs. unsupplemented (NoVTM)] and rate of gain [GAIN; low gain (LG), 0.28 kg/d vs. moderate gain (MG), 0.79 kg/d] during the first 83 d of gestation on trace mineral concentrations in fetal liver, muscle, and allantoic (ALF) and amniotic (AMF) fluids. The VTM treatment (113 g supplement•heifer-1•d-1) was initiated a minimum 71 d before breeding. At breeding, heifers were either maintained on the basal diet (LG) or received the MG diet by adding a protein/energy supplement to the basal diet. On d 83 of gestation, samples of fetal liver, muscle, ALF, and AMF were collected and analyzed for trace mineral concentrations. In fetal liver, Se, Cu, Mn, and Co concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.04) for VTM than NoVTM, while Mo and Co greater (P ≤ 0.04) for LG than MG. In fetal muscle, VTM increased (P ≤ 0.02) concentrations of Se and Zn, whereas LG increased (P < 0.01) Zn. In ALF, Mo concentrations were affected (P = 0.03) by a VMSUP × GAIN interaction, with VTM-MG greater than NoVTM-MG; while VTM increased (P < 0.01) concentrations of Se and Co. Trace mineral concentrations were not affected (P ≥ 0.13) in AMF. In conclusion, VTM increased fetal liver Se, Cu, Mn, and Co concentrations; fetal muscle Se and Zn; and ALF Se and Co; while LG increased fetal liver Mo and Co concentrations and fetal muscle Zn. Our results confirm that managerial decisions associated with vitamin and mineral supplementation and rate of gain can alter fetal reserves of trace elements during early pregnancy.
308 Effects of Roughage Source on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Rumination Time of Beef Steers Fed Steam-flaked Corn Finishing Diets
Authors: Smith Wyatt N , Lockard Catherine L , Lockard Caleb G , Homolka Megan , Karr Kendall , Holland Ben P , Word Alyssa B , Jennings Jenny S
Published: October 2021

We hypothesized that roughage source would not impact rumination time and growth performance if the different sources provided a similar concentration of dietary neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and physically effective NDF (peNDF). This experiment’s objective was to evaluate rumination time, and growth performance steers consuming finishing diets with differing roughage sources (corn stalks, cotton burrs, or wheat silage). Beef steers (n = 49; BW = 317 + 5.6 kg) were used in a completely randomized design with 3 dietary treatments. Steers consumed a steam-flaked corn-based diet containing corn stalks (CS), cotton burrs (CB), or wheat silage (WS) included at 7% (DM basis). Dietary NDF was similar (P = 0.36) across treatments. Each steer was fitted with a sensory collar to record daily rumination. Weekly ingredient and dietary samples were estimated for physically effective NDF (epeNDF) using the Penn State Particle Separator. Actual physically effective NDF (apeNDF) was calculated based upon rumination time. Neither initial nor final body weight (BW) differed between treatments (P > 0.52); nor did average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake or carcass adjusted variables of FBW, ADG, empty BW, or empty body fat (P > 0.31). However, gain to feed (G:F) tended to differ (P = 0.06) between treatments. The CS diet had the greatest G:F with no difference (P = 0.75) between CB and WS. Dietary NDF and epeNDF were similar (P > 0.35) among roughage sources; however, CB had the least apeNDF, consistent with lower rumination time (P < 0.01). When energy values were calculated from animal performance, the CS diet had the greatest observed energy values, followed by WS and CB having the least. These results indicate roughage source impacted rumination time, although steers were fed a steam-flaked corn-based finishing diet with similar dietary roughage and NDF inclusions.
316 Determination of the Chemical and Phytochemical Composition of the Methanolic Extract of Urochloa Humidicola for Use as a Phytogenic Additive in Ruminant Diets
Authors: de Freitas Rafaela Scalise Xavier , Pereira Tatiane Pires , Moreno Danny Alexander Rojas , Bermudez Yuli Andrea Pena , Gomes Lobo Annelise Aila G , Spalato Rafaela Zuliani , Regacini Amanda Thaís Ferreira , Da Silva Ana Luiza Priori , Da Silva Bueno Ives Claudio C
Published: October 2021

Plant extract is an excellent alternative to reduce methane emissions and ameliorate ruminal fermentation due the presence of the secondary metabolites, however, there are many studies with plants used on human’s diet that shows a good result but may occur competition and elevate the costs for the system. Plants consumed by animal have secondary metabolites in quantity and diversity, it can be a good strategy. This work aimed to determine the bromatological composition and characterize the Urochloa humidicola methanol extract such as the presence of secondary metabolites. The samples of the leaves of U. humidicola were collected, dried in the shade with temperature below 40°C, ground in a willey mill in 2 mm particles and subjected to cold maceration with methanol. The solution obtained was filtered by filter paper and concentrated in a rotary evaporator and put to finish the process, drying under airflow. The results of bromatological analyses were subjected to ANOVA by comparing averages by Fisher’s test using the 9.1 Saeg software and phytochemical prospecting testes were characterized as the intensity of the presence of each class of metabolites and represented via the cross-system where:(+++) implies a large presence, (++) implies a considerable presence, (+) implies a small presence and (0) implies a no presence. The dry crude methanolic extract was subjected to analysis of chemical composition and phytochemical prospecting. The extract showed 10.20% crude protein and 35% ether extract and traces of fibrous constituents, because the methanol extraction extracted only soluble constituents. A phytochemical prospecting was positive for the presence of saponin. tannin, alkaloids, catechins, non-protein amino acids and saccharides and was negative for the presence of flavonoids and purines. The U. humidicola methanol extract can be used as a phytogenic additive in the feeding of ruminants.
318 Effect of Initial Providing Time of Oat Hay on Performance, Health, Behavior and Rumen Fermentation in Calves
Authors: Chen Tianyu , Xiao Jianxin , Li Tingting , Ma Jing , Cao Zhijun
Published: October 2021

To determine the appropriate time to feed hay to calves, 210 healthy Holstein calves at d 2 were randomly divided into 3 groups: feeding basic diet (starter) without hay (CON), inclusion of oat hay from the second week (H2) or fourth week (H4) in addition to the basic diet. All calves were weaned on d 56 and raised in the same hutches until the end of the experiment (d 70). Calf starter intake and fecal score were recorded daily throughout the experimental period. Body weight, body size, blood and rumen fluid samples were collected every 2 weeks before weaning and once a week after weaning. Inclusion of oat hay in the basic diet (H2 and H4) resulted in increased body weight (P < 0.01) and average daily gain (P < 0.01) throughout the experiment when compared to the basic diet (CON) only. Calves fed oat hay from 2 weeks of life had the highest starter intake (P < 0.01), average daily gain (P < 0.01) in the pre- and post-weaning periods. Body length and heart girth was similar between treatments. The H2 calves had lower diarrhea frequency (P < 0.05) and diarrhea days (P < 0.05) during the post-weaning period. Compared to the CON calves, inclusion of hay increased the rumen pH (P < 0.01), while decreasing the NH3-N (P < 0.01) and tend to decrease the total VFA (P < 0.06) during the entire trial. Calves in H2 treatment spent more time ruminating (P < 0.01), but less time standing (P < 0.05), eating starter (P < 0.01) and engaging in abnormal behaviors (P < 0.01). In conclusion, calves supplemented with oat hay improved growth rate and rumen fermentation when compared with calves fed only starter, and adding hay from 2 weeks of calves life may be the best choice for the farm to have the greatest growth and health performance.
236 Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Products (SCFP) and Subacute Ruminal Acidosis (SARA) on Co-occurrence Patterns and Hub Taxa of Rumen Liquid Microbiota in Lactating Dairy Cows
Authors: Guo Junfei , Zhang Terry , Yoon Ilkyu , Khafipour Ehsan , Plaizier Jan C
Published: October 2021

Thirty-two dairy cows receiving a basal diet containing 34.9% NDF, and 18.6 % starch, were randomly assigned to four treatments: supplementation either with 140 g/d of ground corn (Control), 126 g/d of ground corn and 14 g/d of XPC (SCFPa, Diamond V Original XPC Cedar Rapids, IA), 121 g/d of ground corn and 19 g/d of NutriTek (SCFPb-1x, NutriTek, Diamond V), or 102 g/d of ground corn and 38 g/d of NutriTek (SCFPb-2x) from 4 wk before until 12 wk after calving. SARA was induced during wk 5 and wk 8 after calving by replacing 20% of the basal diet with pellets containing 50% barley and 50% wheat. Ruminal fluid samples were collected at 6 h after feeding on the second day of wk 4 to wk 10 after calving. Weeks 4, 7 and 10 were considered to be non-SARA. Microbial DNA was extracted, llumina sequenced at the V1–V2 regions of the 16S rRNA gene, and operational taxonomic units (OUT) were assigned using QIIME2. Correlation network analysis (CoNet) determined connections between the relative abundances of OTU, including co-occurrences, and to identify hub OTUs with over 15 connections with other OTUs. The degree of connectedness of phyla was normalized as the total number of positive and negative correlations observed for each phylum divided by their relative abundance in the community. In the Control treatment, SARA reduced positive degree of connectedness (19.33 vs 11.95). In all SCFP treatments, SARA increased the positive degree of connectedness (SCFPb-2x: 25.73 vs 23.50, SCFPb-1x: 87.47 vs 116.32, SCFPa: 34.01 vs 51.56). The relative abundances of the hub taxa Bacteroidales RF16 group and Lachnospiraceae, Christensenellaceae R-7 group and Ricenellaceae RC9 gut group were stabilized by SCFPb-2x. Hence, SCFP attenuated the negative effect of SARA on the co-occurrence patterns in the rumen fluid microbiota.
320 Liver Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Important Genes Involved in the Feed Efficiency of Lactating Cows Fed a High and Low Starch Diet
Authors: Dai Xiaoxia , Li Wenli , Fischer Amelie , Kalscheur Kenneth
Published: October 2021

The objectives of this study were to identify different gene expression and metabolic pathways in the liver associated with feed efficiency of lactating cows fed high or low starch diets. Ten lactating cows were involved in a cross-over design experiment consisting of two 56-d treatment periods with 11-d diet adaptation fed either high starch (HS; 27% starch) or low starch (LS; 13% starch) diets. Feed efficiency, measured by residual feed intake (RFI), was estimated based on the difference between observed and expected metabolizable energy intake within each experimental period. The 3 highest RFI cows were considered high RFI (HRFI), the 3 lowest RFI cows were considered low (LRFI), and the remaining 4 cows were considered medium (MRFI) in each experimental period. Total RNA was used for next-generation RNA sequencing analysis. Raw reads were mapped to the cattle genome (UMD3.1) using STAR. Differential gene expression analysis was done using Cufflinks. We discovered 642 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HS and LS (FDR< 0.05) with 240 genes upregulated and 402 genes downregulated for HS versus LS diet. Via gene-set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis (FDR< 0.05), these genes were enriched in 25 gene ontology (GO) pathways related to mitochondria components and 4 GO biological processes involved in peptide metabolism. There were 1427 DEGs impacted by RFI (FDR< 0.05), of which 829 were upregulated, and 598 were downregulated in LRFI compared to HRFI. The 6 GO biological processes enriched by these genes were mainly related to organic substrate metabolism processing and carbon metabolism (FDR< 0.05). Between the DEGs affected by diet and RFI, 522 DGEs were unique to diet and 1307 DEGs were unique to RFI. Our results suggested that genes contributing to different RFIs and the ones associated with the dietary starch treatment may impact distinct pathways. Further functional annotation of these genes may improve feed efficiency.
335 Evaluation of Hempseed Cake on Cattle Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Feeding Behavior in Finishing Diets
Authors: Winders Thomas , Serum Eric , Smith David J , Neville Bryan W , Mia Kafi , Amat Samat , Dahlen Carl R , Swanson Kendall C
Published: October 2021

As cannabinoid production continues to increase, there is increasing interest in feeding byproducts of industrial hemp production to livestock. An experiment using crossbred heifers (n = 31; initial BW= 494 kg, SE = 10) was conducted to determine the effects of feeding hempseed cake in a corn-based finishing diet (10% forage) formulated to meet or exceed ruminally degradable and metabolizable protein requirements on growth, performance, carcass characteristics, and feeding behavior. Heifers were assigned randomly to one of two treatments: 1.) diet containing 20% dried distillers grains plus solubles (CON, n = 16), or 2.) diet containing 20% hempseed cake (HEMP, n = 15) on a dry-matter basis. Cattle were housed in two pens, had ad-libitum access to feed and water, and individual intakes and feeding behavior were captured using the Insentec BV feeding system across the feeding period (111 d). Final BW was not different (P = 0.28) between CON (696 kg, SE = 12) and HEMP (683 kg, SE = 12) heifers. Dry matter intake was not different between treatments (P = 0.99), while CON cattle had improved ADG and feed efficiency (G:F; P ≤ 0.04) compared to HEMP cattle. Carcass characteristics were not different (P ≥ 0.20) between treatments for all parameters measured. Control and HEMP cattle were not different (P ≥ 0.34) for number of meals, time spent eating, number of visits to the bunk per day, meal size, or eating rate. Feeding hempseed cake reduced ADG and G:F while having no effect on other performance measures, carcass characteristics, or feeding behavior. Overall, these data suggest hempseed cake could be a viable alternative feed source for ruminants depending on availability and cost. Further understanding of hempseed cakes’ nutrient utilization is critical to determining this products viability as a feedstuff for cattle.