bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSXV-6 Influence of GDF5 Gene Polymorphism on the Concentration of Essential and Toxic Elements in Blood Serum and Milk Productivity of the Holstein Cows
Authors: Zubac Isidora , Sycheva Irina , Komarchev Alexey , Nikitin Petr , Orishev Aleksandr , Vasilyeva Irina , Krasavina Vera
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of GDF5 (growth differentiation factor 5) gene polymorphism on metabolism of chemical elements and milk production of cows. The studies were performed on Holstein cows (n=100). To determine the single nucleotide polymorphism of GDF5 (T586C in exon 1), blood samples were taken. DNA samples were isolated from whole blood using the IsoGeneLab reagent kit. The thermal cycler "MyCycler" was used for DNA amplification. The elemental composition of blood serum was estimated according to 13 chemical elements (Al, As, Pb, Sn, Sr, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, I, Mn, Se, Zn) by ICP AES and ICP MS. The frequency of occurrence of polymorphic groups in the GDF5 gene was established, which was for homozygous alleles: TT (n=41), CC (n=10), heterozygous (TS)–(n=49). The analysis of the data obtained showed that blood serum of cows with the CC genotype, relative to animals with the TT and TC genotypes had a greater concentration of I - by 19.3 (P£0.001) and 10.4% (P£0.01), Se - by 18.3 (Р£0.001) and 11.7% (Р£0.01), Zn – by 15.8 (Р£0.01) and 13.2% (Р£0.01), while relatively low concentrations of Al were registered - by 10.8 (Р£0.001) and 21.2% (Р£0.01), Pb - by 16.4 (Р£0.01) and 23.7% (Р£0.001) respectively. In terms of milk fat yield (kg/day), animals with CC genotype advanced over animals with the TT and TC genotypes by 4.8 (P£0.05) and 5.2% (P£0.01), protein by 1.2 and 1.4% (Р£0.05), milk yield - by 4.8 (Р£0.05) and 5.3% (Р£0.01). Thus, we can conclude that the metabolism of chemical elements and the milk productivity of cows are significantly determined by the polymorphism of the GDF5 gene. In order to select cows of the Holstein breed according to the GDF5 gene polymorphism, it is advisable to select homozygous animals for the CC genotype.
PSXV-5 Incorporating Breed of Origin and Runs-of-Homozygosity Information in a Genome-Wide Association for Meat Traits in a Brangus Commercial Herd
Authors: Zayas Gabriel A , Rodríguez Eduardo , Davila Kaitlyn Sarlo , Nunez Andrade Andrea N , Hernandez Aakilah , Rezende Fernanda M , Mateescu Raluca
Published: September 2022

Heterosis is the tendency of crossbreed animals performing better than the average of the purebred parents. Heterosis retention is essential in crossbreeding and composite breeding systems. However, not every genomic region benefits from heterosis, with certain traits showing an improvement when certain genomic regions are kept fixed for a certain breed. The objectives of this study were to detect such regions in a commercial Brangus herd, using genotypes, and Breed of Origin (BO) genotypes to identify runs of homozygosity (ROH) and investigate their effects on meat traits. The Brangus herd was genotyped with the Bovine GGP F250 array, after quality control, 99,669 variants, and 1,046 cattle remained. These genotypes were converted into BO genotypes with LAMP-LD, which describes the origin of the markers either from Angus or Brahman ancestry. The new BO genotypes and original genotypes were then used to identify ROH using the –homozyg function PLINK. The ROH genotypes were fit into a single locus mixed model for hot carcass weight (HCW) and marbling (MARB) using the EMMAX procedures in Golden Helix. The same single locus mixed model was used on both genotypes and Breed of Origin genotypes using the EMMAX procedures in Golden Helix. Using BO alleles, and ROH alongside traditional genotypes can help identify regions with significant effects on carcass traits. Providing important information for crossbreeding/composite breed systems about regions which should remain fixed for breeds.
PSXV-3 Genome-Wide Association Study for Sweat Gland Area in Multi-Breed Brahman-Angus Population
Authors: Hernandez Aakilah , Andrade Andrea N Nunez , Rodriguez Eduardo E , Davila Kaitlyn Sarlo , Mateescu Raluca , Zayas Gabriel A
Published: September 2022

Thermal stress in subtropical regions is a major limiting factor in beef cattle productions with around $370 million being lost annually due to reduced performance. About 45% of beef cattle in the United States are in the southern and southeastern states where tropical and subtropical climates are most prevalent. Cattle utilize sweating to dispense most of their excess heat allowing them to return to their thermoneutral zone. The objective of this study was to conduct a genome-wide association study on sweat gland area in the Multi-breed Angus-Brahman herd of the University of Florida. Skin samples were collected along the shoulder from 337 cows of varying Brahman and Angus percentages. Cows were genotyped with the Bovine GGP F250k array. The biopsies were processed into histology slides and then ImageJ software was used to measure sweat gland area. A general linear model was used to test the significance of breed composition and age group on sweat gland area. Breed composition and age group had a significant effect on sweat gland area (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0001, respectively), with sweat gland area increasing with Brahman percentage. Quality control was conducted using BLUPF90 software including a call rate of 0.90 and a minor allele frequency of 0.01 which left 125,035 SNPs available for the single-step genome wide association analysis. BLUPF90 software was used to fit a single locus mixed model to test the effect of each marker. There were a significant SNPs located in the MINDY1 and PRUNE1 gene, which are involved in cell proliferation and induction of cell motility. These results show that with selection on these SNPs, can improve the ability of cattle to adapt to thermal stress.
PSXI-17 Evaluation of Influence of the Total Accumulation of Toxic Elements in Blood Serum on the Indicators of Milk Productivity of the Holstein Cows
Authors: Zubac Isidora , Sycheva Irina , Komarchev Alexey , Nikitin Petr , Vasilev Vladimir , Vasilyeva Irina , Stepantsevich Marina
Published: September 2022

The main objective was to study the milk productivity of lactating cows depending on the level of total accumulation of toxic metals in the blood serum. The experimental part of work was carried out on clinically healthy Holstein cows (n=45; lactation stage - 20-40 days after calving) bred in a single farm. The elemental composition of blood serum was studied for 4 chemical elements (Al, Pb, Sn, Sr) by ICP AES and ICP MS. The indicators of milk productivity of cows were evaluated by the yield of milk fat, protein, lactose, dry matter, SOMO and the average daily milk yield. To assess the magnitude of the toxic load on the body of cows, the coefficient of the total toxic load Ktox (µg/ml) was calculated. To calculate the coefficient, the sum of the concentrations of some toxic elements in the blood serum was used: Ktox=Al+Pb+Sn+Sr. Based on the data on the value of the total toxic load coefficient Ktox in blood serum, three groups were formed: group I included cows with a minimum value of the toxic load coefficient (Ktox=0.128 (0.088-0.142) μg/ml relative to the study sample; group II with an average (Ktox=0.229 (0.206-0.276) µg/ml; Group III included cows with the maximum coefficient (Ktox=0.395 (0.306-0.453) µg/ml. Comparative analysis showed that cows with the minimum Ktox value (group I) outperformed individuals from I and group II in terms of milk fat yield by 15.4 (P£0.001) and 19.7% (P£0.001), protein by 5.6 and 12.5% (P£0.05), lactose -10.9 (P£0.01) and 18.4% (P£0.001), dry matter by -7.6 and 12.8% (P£0.05) and average daily milk yield by 9.4 and 17.5% (P£0.01), respectively. Thus, in the course of the study, it was registered that with an increase in the total accumulation of heavy metals in the body of animals, the milk productivity of cows decreases.
PSXI-19 Evaluation of Salmonella Enteritidis (S.E.) Cecal Excretion and Ovary Infection Rates After SE Challenge in Commercial Layer Pullets fed with Feed Energy Company Product R2
Authors: Mahfuz Abdullah , Jones Mathew , Dasari Mohan , Berghaus Roy , Hofacre Charles L
Published: September 2022

Salmonella enteritidis is one of the leading bacterial causative agents of acute human gastroenteritis from poultry. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of the patent pending low pKa, lipid-based natural R2 product of Feed Energy on commercial layer pullets using a Salmonella enteritidis challenge model. One-day-old HyLine W-36 layer pullets were placed in two separate rooms (116 sq.ft.) at 48 birds per pen. At 10 weeks of age, pullets were placed in individual cages of an A-Frame layer cage with a plastic wall between the R2 treatments (48 cages) and 48 cages for the challenge control. All birds were orally gavaged S.E. at 17 weeks with 5.2x108 CFU/bird. The dietary treatments from day 1: Control: Basal Diet + Distiller corn Oil (DCO), Treatment: Basal Diet + R2 product. The birds were fed a starter feed from day 1 to 12 weeks of age with 2.5% added fat and grower diet from 12 to 20 weeks with 1% added fat. Salmonella prevalences in ceca, ovaries, and cloacal swabs were compared between treatments and weeks using logistic regression. Salmonella CFUs in culture-positive samples were compared using linear regression. All statistical testing assumed a two-sided alternative hypothesis, and P < 0.05 was considered significant. Ceca and ovary samples were evaluated from one-half of the birds at 1 week and 3 weeks post challenge. At both sample times, the birds fed the R2 product had numerically less S.E. prevalence in ceca, ovaries, and cloacal swabs. Although there was not a statistical difference for each individual tissue tested, there was an obvious trend in reduction over time that would indicate the R2 product may be helping hens to more rapidly clear S.E. colonization and long-term benefits in preventing and/or reducing S.E. colonization of the ceca and ovaries.
PSXI-15 Effects of Selenium-Enriched Fermented Chinese Herbal Medicine on Growth Performance, Immune Performance and Meat Quality of Fowl
Authors: Zhu Yunfen , Chen Xiaofei , Xie Junhui , Li Rong , Tan Dejun , Wang Guogui , Ma Jin , Ma Yuehui
Published: September 2022

Objective: The experiment was conducted to study the effects of selenium-enriched fermented Chinese herbal feed additive on growth performance, immune performance and meat quality of fowl. Method: A total of 180 Hyline brown chicks of 7-day-old were randomly divided into 3 groups with 3 replicates per group and 20 chicks per replicate. These three groups were control group (basal diet), experimental group I (basal diet &Chinese herbal feed additive) and experimental group II (basal diet &selenium-enriched fermented Chinese herbal feed additive). The experiment lasted for 42d. Results: The ADG (average daily gain) of experimental groups II were significantly greater than those of control group and experimental groups I (P< 0.05). The ADFI (average daily feed intake) of experimental groups I and II were significantly greater than those of control group, and the F/G (ratio of feed to gain) was respectively decreased by 5.3% and 7.7% (P< 0.01). The content of GSH-Px in serum of experimental group II was significantly greater than that of experimental group I and control group and the contents of IgG and SOD in serum of experimental group I and II were significantly greater than that of control group (P< 0.05). The contents of 1-octen-3-ol and hexanal in chicken breast of experimental group II were greater than those of experimental group I and control group (P< 0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded that adding selenium-enriched fermented Chinese herbal feed additive in the basal diet can enhance the growth performance and immune performance of Hyline brown. It also helped to improve the flavor of the meat.Innovation：In this paper, selenium-enriched probiotic was used to ferment Chinese herbal medicine to research the effects of selenium-enriched fermented Chinese herbal medicine feed additives on fowl. Meanwhile, similar reports have not been found internationally.
PSI-10 Effect of Chronic Melatonin Supplementation During mid to Late Gestation on Performance and Behavioral Responses of Cows Exposed to Summer Heat Stress
Authors: Samuel Felix , Zakari Friday , Ogunkunle Nathaniel , Omontese Bobwealth O
Published: September 2022

Summer heat stress negatively impacts the health and welfare of animals. Melatonin is a highly potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger with immune modulation and anti-inflammatory effects in domestic animals. This study examined the effect of supplemental melatonin during mid to late gestation on serum cortisol, heat shock protein 90 (HS90) and glucose concentrations, performance, behavior and hemogram of pregnant cows and their offspring. Multiparous pregnant beef cows were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups and supplemented with Melatonin® implants 24 mg (MEL, n=13) or without (CON, n=12) at day 190, 218, and 246 of gestation. Also, offspring performance (n = 24) was evaluated. Body weight, rectal temperature, hemogram, behavioral responses of cows (chute score, vocalization and exit score) were scored biweekly for 16 weeks. The average daily gain (ADG), rectal temperature, glucose concentration and hemogram of cows and calves showed no significant difference (P>0.05) between treatments except in calves were platelet were higher in MEL treated calves than control. Cortisol levels were significantly lower (P< 0.05) in MEL cows compare to CON from day 14 (1437 ± 2.54 and 2028 ± 3.23 pg/ml respectively) to the end of the experiment. Also, serum HSP90 concentrations were significantly lower (P< 0.05) from day 14 to the end of the study period (0 ng/ml and 0.73 ng/ml respectively). Chute and exit score did not differ significant between groups. Our results revealed that chronic melatonin supplementation during mid to late gestation reduced serum cortisol and HSP90 in cows exposed to summer heat stress.
PSI-14 Effects of Estrus Expression on the Microbial Community Composition of the Uterus in Beef Cows on day 15 of the Estrous Cycle
Authors: Walker Madison B , Holton Matthew P , Lourenco Jeferson M , Fontes Pedro
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of estrus expression on uterine microbiota composition of cows on day 15 of the estrous cycle. Non-pregnant Bos taurus beef cows (n = 23) were exposed to a pre-synchronization step followed by the 7-d CO-Synch estrus synchronization protocol. On days -10, -3,0 (exogenously induced ovulation),7 and 14, transrectal ultrasonography was performed to evaluate ovarian structures, ensure synchrony, and determine the side of ovulation. Estrotect patches were applied on day -3, and cows with an activated patch (rubbed > 50%) on day 0 were considered to have displayed heat. Cows were harvested on day 15 and individual swabs were collected from each horn using aseptic techniques. DNA was extracted and the entire (V1-V9 hypervariable regions)16s rRNA gene was sequenced. Sequences were analyzed using the QIIME2 Pipeline. Burkholderiaceae, Chitinophagaceae, Rikenellaceae, Burkholderia, Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Lachnospiraceae AC2044 group, Vibrionimonas, Prevotellaceae UCG-001, and Rikenellaceae dgA-11 gut group abundances differed significantly (P < 0.05) in cows that exhibited estrus compared with non-estrual cows. In conclusion, there were significant differences in the composition of the microbial community between cows that exhibited estrus and non-estrual cows.
PSIII-14 Reproductive Microbiome and Cytokine Profiles of Postpartum Beef Cows in Relation to Fertility
Authors: Smith Molly S , Hickman-Brown Kyle J , McAnally Brooke E , Filho Ramiro V Oliveira , de Melo Gabriela Dalmaso , Pohler Ky G , Poole Rebecca K
Published: September 2022

Shifts in commensal bacteria (i.e., Firmicutes) in the human microbiome are associated with compromised fertility. The objectives of this study were to characterize 1) the reproductive microbiome and 2) the cytokine concentrations prior to artificial insemination (AI) in vaginal and uterine flushes from postpartum beef cows. Twenty Bos indicus-influenced beef cows (~60 days postpartum and free of health issues) were weighed, body condition scored (BCS) then subjected to the Bee Synch II synchronization protocol on d-8 and timed AI on d0. Blood samples were collected on d-3, -1, 0, and 28. Vaginal and uterine flushes were collected on d-3 and d-1. On d28, pregnancy was determined by transrectal ultrasonography (Open, n=13 and Pregnant, n=7). Bacterial community analyses were conducted targeting the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene. Cytokine analyses were conducted using the RayBiotech Quantibody® Bovine Cytokine Array Q1 kit per manufacturer's instructions. Weight, BCS, and vaginal bacterial communities by phyla were not different (P >0.05). In open cows, the uterine relative abundance of Firmicutes decreased between d-3 and -1 (60.4% ± 0.9% vs. 48.5% ± 3.2%, respectively; P< 0.05). In pregnant cows, the uterine relative abundance of Tenericutes significantly increased between d-3 and -1 (1.0% ± 0.1% vs. 7.6% ± 4.1%, respectively; P< 0.05). Additionally, the genus Ureaplasma tended to increase in relative abundance from d-3 to -1 (0.1% ± 0.1% vs. 7.3% ± 4.9%, respectively; P=0.06). Uterine concentrations of Interferon (IFN)-γ, Interleukin (IL)-1α and IL-21 were greater in open females compared to pregnant. Vaginal concentrations for IFN-α and chemokine ligand (CXCL)-10 were greater in open females compared to pregnant. Regardless of treatment, IL-13 increased from d-3 to d-1. These results suggest a distinct difference in the uterine microbiome and cytokine profiles prior to AI for resulting pregnant and open cows.
PSIV-A-3 Body Temperature Monitoring Using Subcutaneously and Vaginal Sensors in Grazing Cows
Authors: dos Reis Barbara Roqueto , White Robin R
Published: September 2022

Body temperature is an indicator of animal health and can be used to detect harmful physiological events in advance of clinical symptoms. Traditionally, body temperature in cattle is determined with a rectal thermometer and requires the animal to be restrained. Although systems to automatically monitor cattle health in confinement operations exist, assessing the real-time temperature of grazing cows is not common. Our object was to demonstrate an integrated sensor network for monitoring pastured cattle body temperature in comparison with temperature measured by a vaginal logger. The integrated sensor network (Mahindra & Mahindra; Mumbai, India) communicates with the data obtained from a subcutaneous temperature sensor (EmbediVet, Livestock Labs Inc.; Pittsburg, PA) to a cloud-based data storage platform. The vaginal temperature was measured by an implantable temperature logger (Micro-T 16-bit; Star Oddi, Iceland). Vaginal devices were inserted into the vagina using a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) cleaned of progesterone. The subcutaneous temperature sensors were surgically implanted through a 2cm vertical incision in the neck. Data from the implantable sensor were transmitted via Bluetooth communication to a solar-powered base station. The subcutaneous sensors and vaginal loggers were deployed on 10 grazing cattle over a period of 6 months. Data from only 4 subcutaneous sensors consistently reported data. Temperature values measured by the subcutaneous sensors had no statistical relationship (P=0.595) with body temperature measured by the vaginal temperature loggers. However, the subcutaneous sensors were able to detect changes in body temperature over time within-animal, indicating that errors in predicting temperature were more likely due to frameshift issues than an inability to track true temperature. Further improvements in data-processing and higher sample size are needed to maximize the usability of this sensor network for monitoring cattle body temperature.
PSV-A-8 Reduced Daylength pre-Calving Increases Milk Production Post-Calving
Authors: Alward Kayla , Cockrum Rebecca , Duncan Jane
Published: September 2022

Exposing Holstein dry cows to short-day (SD) photoperiod of 8 hours per day can improve milk production post-calving by 3.2 kg per day, compared to cows exposed to long-day (LD) photoperiod of 16 hours per day during the same period. To date, no studies have evaluated the effect of altered photoperiod during the dry period on milk production in Jersey cows. Our objective was to study the effect of LD and SD during the dry period on milk production in both breeds. Holstein and Jersey cows (n=33) dried off 60 days prior to their due date were exposed to either SD (n=9 Holstein, n=8 Jersey) or LD (n=8 Holstein, n=8 Jersey) at 18.3 °C until calving. After calving, cows returned to ambient photoperiod and milk data was collected for 15 weeks. Lactation number, replicate, dry period feed intake and days of treatment were recorded. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS 9.4. Overall average milk production differed by breed (P< 0.01), with Holsteins producing more (72.9 ± 6.2 kgs) than Jerseys (66.1 ± 7.3 kgs). Treatment differed (P=0.02) with SD cows producing more milk (71.0 ± 6.9 kgs) than LD cows (68.1 ± 6.7 kgs). Treatment and breed interaction significantly differed. Long-day Holsteins produced 73.9 kgs ± 6.2 kgs which was not different (P >0.10) from SD Holsteins (72.1 ± 6.4 kgs). Neither LD nor SD Holsteins differed significantly (P=0.16, P=0.60) from SD Jerseys which produced 70.0 ± 7.4 kgs. Long-day Jerseys averaged the least milk at 62.3 ± 7.3 kgs which was significantly different from all other groups (P< 0.01). This data suggests Jerseys’ milk production responds similarly to previous reported Holstein data. Factors causing the unexpected Holstein data could be elevated temperature-humidity index values post-calving, despite industry standard heat abatement.
PSII-A-3 Effect of Beef Breed Type Relative to Feedlot Performance, Feeding Behavior, and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Okamoto Lillian L , Reichhardt Caleb C , Alberto Anthony F , Motsinger Laura A , Bayles Sarah A , Roholt Bryce W , Garcia Matthew D , Thornton Kara J
Published: September 2022

Cattle production in the U.S. is being impacted by the changing global climate and limited availability of natural resources. Improving the efficiency of cattle production is imperative to make the most of these limited resources. Increasing the percentage of Bos indicus (BI) genetics within cattle herds is one potential method to address these issues, as they are able to withstand higher temperatures, are better adapted to nutritional stress, and consume less water than Bos taurus (BT) influenced cattle. The objective of this study was to examine steers of different breed types relative to feedlot performance, feeding behavior, and carcass characteristics. This study utilized a total of 115 steers of two different breeds: Angus (AN; n=83; 100% BT) and Santa Gertrudis influenced (SG; n=32; 19% BI, 81% BT). Steers were stratified by weight and randomly divided into one of four covered pens. Each pen was equipped with two GrowSafe bunks and all steers were fed the same typical ration. All steers were harvested at a commercial facility once industry average backfat standards were met. Individual dry matter intake and feeding behaviors were collected through the GrowSafe system. Weight, ribeye fat thickness, marbling score, and USDA yield grades were also assessed. Breed did not have an effect (P >0.10) on dry matter intake, average daily gain, ribeye fat thickness, hot carcass weight, or USDA yield grade. There was a tendency (P=0.09) for SG steers to spend more time with their heads down during individual GrowSafe bunk visits. Intramuscular fat was increased (P=0.0019) in AN steers compared to SG steers. Further research focused on genomic differences between cattle of different breed types is warranted to better understand the relationship between breed type and production performance characteristics.
PSIV-B-19 Determining the Effect of Zinc Status on eye Health and its Relationship with Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis in Beef Calves
Authors: Cauble Reagan N , Hickinbotham Michael , Kegley Beth B , Powell J G
Published: September 2022

Crossbred beef calves (n = 30) were stratified by gender and BW and placed into 1 of 16 dry lot pens. Pens were allocated to either: 1) the control treatment (CON) with calves fed a basal ration containing 31 mg of zinc/kg DM; or 2) Zn supplemented treatment (SUP) with calves fed the basal ration supplemented with 30 mg of zinc/kg DM (provided as zinc amino acid complex). Growth performance was recorded every 28-d during the 143-d study. On d 115, cattle were given a commercial vaccine containing M. bovis and M. bovoculi bacterins. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for serum zinc, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP, 28-d intervals), and vitamin A (d 0 and 143). Samples for serum and tear IgG concentrations specific for M. bovis and M. bovoculi were taken on d 115, 129, and 143. Data were analyzed as repeated measures, where appropriate, using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Dietary zinc status did not impact liver or zinc concentrations (P ≥ 0.36), BW (P ≥ 0.66) or ADG (P ≥ 0.14). There was no effect of treatment (P ≥ 0.16) or treatment by time interaction (P > 0.39) on tear IgG specific for either M. bovis or M. bovoculi. However, serum IgG concentrations specific for M. bovis were greater (P = 0.02) in CON calves compared with SUP calves, and serum IgG concentrations specific for M. bovoculi tended (treatment by time, P = 0.08) to increase more in CON calves. Both serum and tear IgG concentrations specific for either bacterin increased (day effect, P < 0.001) from d 115 to 143. Results did not support a relationship between dietary Zn and eye health in cattle. However, this could be explained by the similarity in liver and serum zinc concentrations.
PSXI-10 Macronutrient and Protein Quality Evaluation of Novel Mammalian Proteins for Canine and Feline Nutrition
Authors: Gomez Victoria A , Utterback Pamela L , Parsons Carl M , de Godoy Maria R
Published: September 2022

The use of novel protein sources has become a popular human food trend and with the continued humanization of pets, these trends have been followed in the petfood industry. There is limited data regarding the macronutrient composition and overall quality of novel mammalian proteins. In this study, beef, yak, camel, kangaroo, and wild boar were analyzed for chemical composition, amino acid (AA) digestibility, and calculation of digestible indispensable amino acid scores (DIAAS-like) by application of the precision fed cecectomized rooster assay. Dry matter values were >90% and crude protein was greatest in yak meat (95%). Yak meat also contained the least amount of total fat at 11% whereas the greatest amount was found in beef at 57%. The standardized AA digestibility values were determined to be highly digestible as all values were >81%. The reference proteins used for DIAAS-like calculations were based on the Association of American Feed Control officials (AAFCO) nutrient profile and National Research Council (NRC) recommended allowances for adult dogs and cats at maintenance. The DIAAS-like values were >100% for yak and camel meat and were determined to be high quality for dogs. In cats, all proteins received DIAAS-like scores >100% except for wild boar. Tryptophan and methionine were most often the first-limiting acids for both dogs and cats.
PSXI-5 Digestibility and Acceptability of Foods Containing Increasing Content of Rice Protein Concentrate fed to Adult Cats
Authors: Morris Elizabeth , Perumalla Sunil , Gross Kathy
Published: September 2022

The use of rice protein concentrate (RPC) as a protein source in cat food is not common. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the acceptability and digestibility of foods formulated to contain increasing content of RPC to support its inclusion in foods for adult (non-gestational, non-lactational) cats. Increasing RPC (0, 7, 14, and 28%) were formulated into test foods fed to 24 cats in a Latin Square design with 15-day periods and no washout between periods. Food intake and fecal scores were measured to determine acceptability of test foods. Food intake and fecal output were measured on days 11-15; food and fecal samples from day 15 of each period were analyzed for nutrient composition to calculate macronutrient digestibility of the test foods. Analysis of variance and orthogonal contrasts were utilized to assess the effect of RPC inclusion on food intake, fecal output, fecal scores, and macronutrient digestibility. As-fed, dry matter (DM), and gross energy intake increased with increasing RPC inclusion (P = 0.040, 0.017, and 0.040, respectively). Fecal output, both as-is and DM, was unaffected by RPC inclusion (P = 0.267 and 0.685, respectively); however, fecal scores increased linearly with increasing RPC inclusion (P < 0.001). Rice protein concentrate inclusion in test foods linearly increased digestibility of all macronutrients (P < 0.050) except for apparent fat digestibility, which was unaffected by RPC inclusion (P = 0.690). This study demonstrated that RPC can serve as a high-quality, acceptable protein source in foods fed to adult cats. Overall, the inclusion of RPC was well accepted, improved fecal characteristics, and increased apparent and true macronutrient digestibility compared to control.
PSIX-19 Characterizing Apical-out Chicken Intestinal Organoids Grown in a Microcavity Culture Plate
Authors: Tamazian Lorik , Yu Liang-en , Li Yihang , Connor Erin E
Published: September 2022

Intestinal organoids grown in extracellular matrix exhibit epithelial cell polarity with the apical surface internal to the organoid, limiting its access for functional studies. Apical-out organoids can be formed in matrix-free media (in suspension), which introduces different challenges for organoid manipulation (e.g., loss during media changes or washing) due to their “free-floating” nature. Both techniques result in multiple depths of view during visualization. We aimed to determine whether uniformly sized apical-out organoids from chicken could be grown, visualized, and recovered from microcavity culture plates designed for uniform growth of spheroids. Apical-out organoids were developed from crypts/villi isolated from duodenum/jejunum of embryonic-day 18 chicks (ROSS 308) placed in culture media in 12 wells of a 24-well, round-bottom Elplasia culture plate (Corning) at 37°C, 5% CO2 (Day 0). Each well has ~554 microcavities and was seeded with an estimated 300 crypts/villi. Organoid number and area (μm2) were determined daily using an ECHO Revolve Microscope (4x magnification) on Days 1 to 6 from 7 fields of view per well (~33 microcavities per field of view). On Day 1, mean ± SE organoid area was 3,106 ± 60 μm2 (n = 3,590); mean of 43 ± 1 organoids per field. Some organoids exhibited budding by Day 6 where mean area was 5,208 ± 125 μm2 (n = 2,599); 31 ± 1 organoids per field. Organoids were easily recovered from the microcavities of each well for seeding into a 96-well plate and maintenance for an additional 32 h. Analysis at 16.5, 20, 24, 28, and 32 h using PrestoBlue HS (Invitrogen) and a fluorometric microplate reader indicated organoids remained viable for downstream analysis. In conclusion, microcavity culture plates greatly increased ease of visualization, counting, and manipulation of organoids grown in suspension, but organoid size was highly variable.
PSIX-20 Nrf2 Pathway Mediates Resistance to Weaning Stress-Induced Intestinal Injury in Piglets of Different Breeds
Authors: Qin Ying-chao , Zan Geng-xiu , Ding Su-juan , Gao Chun-qi , Yan Hui-chao , Kong Xiang-feng , Wang Xiu-qi
Published: September 2022

The intestine is the central organ of early weaning stress in piglets; however, the response of intestinal stem cells (ISCs) that drive epithelial renewal between the different breeds of piglets is not yet known. Therefore, this investigation was to explore the sensitivity of ISCs to early weaning stress. Taoyuan Black and Duroc piglets were slaughtered at 21 days of age (on the day of weaning) and 24 days of age (3 days after weaning) with 10 pigs, respectively. And the results showed that Taoyuan Black pigs are more tolerant to early weaning stress, while the mucosal mass of jejunum was significantly decreased in 24-day-old Duroc piglets compared with the 21-day-old Duroc piglets (P < 0.05). The weaning stress damaged the jejunal structure, decreased the expression of tight junction related proteins ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-1, and increased intestinal permeability in Duroc piglets (P < 0.05). The ex vivo intestinal organoids (IOs) derived from the jejunal crypt of Duroc piglets after weaning exhibited lower expansion efficiency (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of proliferating cell marker PCNA, terminally differentiated cell marker KRT20, absorptive cell marker Villin, goblet cell marker MUC2, and Paneth cell marker lysozyme were significantly reduced in the jejunum, crypt, and jejunal organoids of 24-day-old Duroc (P < 0.05). ROS levels in the jejunum of Duroc piglets were increased along with the inhibition of the Nrf2 pathway compared with 21-day-old Duroc piglets (P < 0.05). Collectively, the Taoyuan Black pigs had stronger tolerance to weaning stress; however early weaning suppressed the Nrf2 pathway, decreased proliferation and differentiation activity of ISCs, and disrupted intestinal homeostasis in Duroc piglets.
PSX-A-1 Impacts of Undigestible NDF and Grain Source in Feedlot Steers on Performance, Feeding Behavior, and Ruminal pH
Authors: Zupan Amber L , Wood Katharine M , Penner Gregory B , Steele Michael A , Mandell Ira B , Van Schaik Megan
Published: September 2022

Little is known about how fiber quality impacts rumen health in feedlot diets with minimal forage inclusion. The objective of the study is to investigate the interaction between undigestible NDF (uNDF) levels and grain fermentability (GF) on animal performance, feeding behavior, and ruminal pH in feedlot steers. Using a 2x2 factorial design, Angus crossbred steers (n=96, 505±54 kg) were fed an isonitrogenous and isocaloric diet containing: high uNDF (haylage; 12% uNDF) or lower uNDF (corn silage, 6% uNDF) and high (high moisture corn) or lower ruminally fermentable grain (rolled corn) yielding 4 different treatments. Following adaption, steers were fed their treatment ration for 102±14d before slaughter. Feed intake (DMI) and feeding behavior data were collected using Insentec feeders and continuous ruminal pH was measured during the last 4 weeks before slaughter using indwelling pH probes (12 steers/treatment). Liver abscesses and gut health scores were assessed at slaughter. Steers on the low uNDF diet had greater ADG (P≥0.005) and improved F:G (P≥0.005) for the first half of the finisher period. No other differences in performance traits were found for the second half or overall finisher period between uNDF and GF, or their interaction. DMI (P≥0.64) did not differ, but time spent at the feeder (min/day) was greater (P≥0.02) for low GF steers. Steers fed low uNDF had greater (P≥0.04) time per day spent with ruminal pH below pH 5.8. At slaughter, steers fed high GF treatments had greater hot carcass weights (P≥0.03). This data suggests that low uNDF can improve early gain but may result in increased SARA risk compared to high uNDF at the same forage inclusion level. However, there was limited interaction with grain processing. Further research should continue to investigate relationships between uNDF and ruminal pH, and dietary uNDF concentrations that optimize performance without compromising gut health.
PSX-B-18 Can a Smartphone be Used for Daily Field Measurements?
Authors: Biagioli Bruno , de Souza Lucas , De Sousa Illys
Published: September 2022

The popularity of smartphones is undeniable in nearly all facets of society, and their use is worldwide spread, the objective of this abstract is to compare two smartphones and some apps to commercial equipment. The study was performed in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil using GPS, light, and sound sensors, from two smartphones. There were 5 apps tested for each smartphone sensor, and specific methodology for each one, for GPS was used a known length running track, for light and decibel meters was used commercials equipment. For GPS, there was no statistical difference (P< 0.05) between the type of mobile phone and the app tested and there was also no statistical difference (P< 0.05) for the use or non-use of the internet during the measurements. For the decibel meter, different noise levels were tested, and there was a difference between the levels, which was expected. At each noise level, there were statistical differences (P< 0.05) between smartphone type, internet use, and the apps tested. In this summary, it will not be possible to show all these results. For the light meter, there was a significant difference between the application and the lux level, regardless of the type of smartphone. At 300 lux the applications were the same as the control. At 600 lux only the "Light meter" (My Mobile Tools developer) app had results equal to the control. At 1000 lux measurements, all applications were different from the control. The internet and lux interaction were the same for the averages of the 300 and 600 lux levels, with 1000 lux the use of the internet favored the readings. The use of cell phones can be a cheap and practical alternative for daily measurements on rural properties, to ensure the sustainability of the systems and labor health.
PSXV-10 Poor Maternal Nutrition Impacts Mrna Expression of Epigenetic Factors in ram Offspring Liver
Authors: Dupre Madelyn A , Tillquist Nicole M , Reiter Amanda S , Kawaida Mia Y , Smith Brandon I , Reed Sarah A , Zinn Steven A , Govoni Kristen E
Published: September 2022

Poor maternal nutrition (over- and restricted-feeding) alters growth and metabolism in offspring after birth; however, the mechanisms are not well understood. Epigenetics, the heritable changes in gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, is a possible mechanism. We hypothesized that mRNA expression of epigenetic factors in livers of male offspring would be altered as a result of poor maternal diet during gestation. Multiparous Dorset ewes (n = 46) pregnant with twins were fed 100%, 60% or 140% of NRC requirements from d 30 ± 0.02 of gestation until parturition. Male offspring are referred to as CON (n=12), RES (n=21), and OVER (n=13), respectively. Ram lambs were euthanized at d 284±1.82, and liver tissue was immediately snap-frozen. RNA was isolated from liver and gene expression was quantified using real-time (RT)-PCR. Epigenetic factors of interest included DNA methyltransferases (DNMT; DNMT1, DNMT3B), ten eleven translocation enzyme 2 (TET2), lysine acetyltransferases (KAT; KAT1, KAT2B, KAT6A, KAT8), histone deacetylases (HDAC; HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC3, HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC6, HDAC8, HDAC11, sirtuin1), and histone methyltransferases [ASH1 like histone lysine methyltransferase (ASH1L), euchromatic histone lysine methyltransferase (EHMT)1, EHMT2, SET domain bifurcated histone lysine methyltransferase 2 (SETDB2)]. Gene expression of ASH1L and KAT6A were decreased in liver tissue of RES compared with OVER by 42.8% and 59.7%, respectively (P≤0.017). Gene expression of DNMT1 and HDAC3 were decreased in RES compared with CON by 38.3% and 35.0%, respectively (P≤0.045). Gene expression of EHMT1 and HDAC8 were increased in OVER compared with CON by 19.3% and 37.4%, respectively (P≤0.045). There were no differences detected in expression of other genes (P≥0.060). Thus, maternal diet affects hepatic mRNA expression of specific epigenetic factors which may contribute to altered metabolism and liver function. Further investigation is warranted to determine how epigenetic modifications impact offspring growth and metabolism long-term.
PSIII-A-17 Relationships between Diet Quality and Serum Metabolic Indicators in Prenatally Stressed Growing Bos Indicus Heifers
Authors: Tolleson Douglas R , Randel Ron D , Perry George A , Knight Colt W , Long Charles R , Welsh Thomas H
Published: September 2022

Our research group has previously reported on grazing behavior, diet selection, and weight change in prenatally stressed and translocated Brahman heifers grazing native rangeland. Our current objective was to evaluate relationships between diet quality and metabolic indicators. Twelve yearling heifers were transported ~700 km from Overton, TX to Sonora, TX. Six heifers (283±10 kg) were born to dams subjected to transportation stress during mid-gestation (PNS) and 6 (279±17 kg) were born to non-stressed dams (CON). Heifers grazed a series of 24-ha native range pastures and were sampled (BW, BCS score, blood, and feces) at 2-wk intervals from May through September. Fecal samples collected from the ground or the rectum of each animal were stored at -20o C until processed for near infrared reflectance spectroscopy prediction of diet crude protein (CP) and digestible organic matter (DOM). Blood was obtained via coccygeal venipuncture and processed to yield serum. Serum analyses were obtained from the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. Relationships between constituents of interest were determined by linear regression. Significance was considered to be P < 0.05. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN; mg/dL) was greater (P = 0.04) in PNS (8.39±0.32) than CON (7.39±0.33). Positive correlations were found between CP and BUN (RSQ = 0.76, SE = 1.25 mg/dL; P < 0.001), albumin (RSQ = 0.57, SE = 0.06 mg/dL; P < 0.01), and average daily gain (RSQ = 0.63, SE = 0.47 kg; P < 0.01). Similar relationships were observed between DOM and glucose (RSQ = 0.64, SE = 3.91 mg/dL; P < 0.01), cholesterol (RSQ = 0.37, SE = 5.47 mg/dL; P < 0.05), and average daily gain (RSQ = 0.47, SE = 0.56 kg; P < 0.01). PNS affected circulating nitrogen concentration. Diet quality was related to weight gain and serum indicators of nutritional status.
PSIII-A-12 Longissimus Thoracis Mitochondrial Capacities and Temperament of Stocker Calves are Related to Meat Quality at Harvest in Brahman but not in Angus Cattle
Authors: Semanchik Pier L , Wesolowski Lauren T , Simons Jessica L , Guy Chloey , Earnhardt Audrey L , Perry George A , Long Charles R , Riley David , Law Dustin , Neuendorff Don A , Machado Tanner , Randel Ron D , Welsh Thomas H , White-Springer Sarah H
Published: September 2022

Brahman cattle reportedly have decreased meat quality compared to Angus but little is known about the cellular mechanisms driving this difference. We hypothesized that live animal skeletal muscle mitochondria would be related to meat quality. Trapezius and longissimus thoracis (LT) samples were collected from 10-mo-old Angus and Brahman steers designated as calm, intermediate, or temperamental (n=12/group/breed) based on pen score and exit velocity at weaning. Samples were analyzed for citrate synthase (CS) and cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) activities as markers of mitochondrial volume density and function. Calm and temperamental LT samples were also analyzed for oxidative phosphorylation (P) and electron transfer (E) capacities via high-resolution respirometry. At approximately 14.5-mo-old, steers were placed in pens and fed ad libitum. After at least 120 d on feed, animals were harvested and 13th rib LT samples were collected, vacuum packaged, aged 14d, frozen, then subjected to Warner-Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF). Impacts of temperament and breed on WBSF were determined using mixed linear models with breed, temperament, and breed × temperament as fixed effects. Relationships between mitochondrial variables and WBSF were determined using Pearson’s Correlations. Regardless of temperament, WBSF was greater in Brahman than Angus steers (P< 0.0001). Temperament did not impact WBSF in Angus but temperamental Brahman had greater WBSF than both calm and intermediate Brahman (P≤0.01). CS and CCO activities at 10 mo of age were not correlated with WBSF. However, Brahman LT intrinsic (relative to CS) P with complex I (PCI), maximal P with complexes I and II (PCI+II), maximal E with complexes I and II (ECI+II), and E with complex II only (ECII) were positively correlated with WBSF (P≤0.05) while no LT mitochondrial capacity measures correlated with WBSF in Angus. These data may shed light on differences in skeletal muscle energetics leading to decreased meat quality in temperamental Brahman steers.
PSIII-A-9 Effect of Fertility Level on Nutraceutical Parameters of Sericea Lespedeza (Lespedeza Cuneata)
Authors: Neha Ayesha , Pulsifer Chelsea , Whitley Niki C C , Dykes Gregory , Batchu Phaneendra , Terrill Thomas H
Published: September 2022

Sericea lespedeza (SL; Lespedeza cuneata), is a high-tannin warm-season perennial forage plant with very good bioactivity against internal parasites of small ruminants. Hays of SL produced under normal-fertility (NF) and enhanced-fertility (EF) management were compared to a bermudagrass (BG; Cynodon dactylon) hay diet in a 6-week feeding trial with goats. Naturally parasite infected intact Spanish male goats (8-9 months old) housed in individual pens were fed NF (n=15) or EF (n=13) SL or BG hay (n=15; CON) free choice. A commercial goat pellet was provided to all goats at 1.5% of body weight. At the start of the study and weekly thereafter, fecal and blood samples were collected to analyze gastrointestinal nematode fecal egg counts (FEC) and Eimeria spp. (coccidia) fecal oocyst counts (FOC) and percentage packed red blood cell volume (PCV), respectively. Animal weights were recorded at the start and end of the trial. Data were analyzed using MIXED procedures of SAS for repeated measures with inferences made on log-transformed data for FEC, FOC and PCV, and GLM used for average daily gain (ADG) data. The FEC and FOC for EF and NF SL were different from control after day 0 (P< 0.05). Percentage PCV tended (P < 0.052) to be influenced by treatment, in which EF and NF SL were similar, but both were higher (P < 0.05) than CON (tendency only for NF, P < 0.07). The goats’ ADG was impacted by treatment, as those fed SL grown under enhanced fertility had higher (P < 0.001) weight gain than the NF SL and CON goats, which were similar. Enhanced-fertility SL improved animal performance while maintaining anti-parasitic bioactivity in goats.
PSVIII-B-3 Comparison of Telomere Length in Leukocytes of Control and Prenatally Stressed Brahman Bull and Heifer Calves
Authors: Welsh Thomas H , Kochran Kelli , Earnhardt Audrey L , Cardoso Rodolfo C , Hairgrove Thomas B , Long Charles R , Riley David , Randel Ron D
Published: September 2022

Telomeres are comprised of G-rich nucleotide sequences (5’-TTAGGG-3’) at the chromosome termini that are responsible for protecting chromosomes; however, attrition of these sequences has been observed due to aging and stress. The purpose of this study was to compare telomere length (TL) in control and prenatally stressed (PNS) calves. Mature Brahman cows inseminated to a single Brahman sire in 2018 were assigned to be either Control (n=35; not transported) or PNS (n=37; 2 h of transportation at 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140±5 d of gestation). Jugular blood samples were obtained by venipuncture from 10 Control (5 bulls and 5 heifers) and 10 PNS (5 bulls and 5 heifers) calves at 25±2 d of age. Peripheral leukocytes were isolated and genomic DNA was extracted utilizing silicone membrane spin column kits. The relative quantity of telomere products, which is proportional to the average TL, was determined by multiplex quantitative PCR analysis using the ratio of bovine telomere and β-globulin DNA (T/S ratio). An absolute standard of bovine telomere (1012–107 dilution series) and β-globulin (109-104 dilution series) genes was utilized to produce relative copy number. All samples were processed in triplicate and samples were included if the triplicate Cq difference was less than 0.25 cycles. Data were analyzed using ANOVA. TL differed by sex (P< 0.03; bulls 11,959±211; heifers 12,850±366) and treatment (P< 0.02; Control 12,895±278; PNS 11,913±303). There was not an interaction of sex and treatment (P >0.43) although TL of Control heifers (13,482±396) exceeded the TL of PNS bulls (11,609±348). These observations of fewer copies of telomere sequences suggest an influence of sex on TL within 1 month of age; and, that prenatal transportation stress may increase attrition of telomeres in cattle. Support: USDA NIFA Award No. 2019-67015-29573