bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSVI-25 Inclusion of Lemna as a plant-based protein ingredient in dog and cat diets
Authors: Panasevich Matt , Frantz Nolan , Reinhart Greg
Published: November 2020

Our objective was to evaluate the inclusion of a novel plant-based protein (Lemna; MC Select; Parabel®; Vero Beach, FL) in dog diets at 0, 5, and 10% and cat diets at 0, 10 and 15% for palatability, stool quality, and nutrient digestibility. We hypothesized that Lemna would be a viable protein source in both cat and dog diets by showing no detriments to nutrition outcomes. All feeding tests were conducted at an independent research facility (Susquehanna, PA). A standard 2 bowl palatability test over a 2-day period was done with adult dogs and cats (n = 30 each) to determine intake ratios (IR) between test diets (Lemna -containing diets) and control (0% Lemna) diet. Total tract nutrient digestibility was conducted with 18 adult dogs and 21 adult cats (n=6–7 per diet) with 5 days of diet acclimation followed by 5 days of total fecal collection. Stool quality was evaluated on a 1–5 scale where 1= non-formed/diarrhea and 5= hard, formed. Palatability data was analyzed via Wilcoxon Signed Rank, and digestibility and stool quality data were analyzed by ANOVA with a Tukey’s post-hoc means separation (SAS version 9.4). Intake ratios in cats between 10% Lemna and control were significantly (P < 0.05) in favor of control, while no difference was observed between 15% Lemna and control. For dogs, 5% and 10% Lemna had significantly (P < 0.05) lower IR demonstrating a preference to control. Both cats and dogs fed Lemna diets had acceptable stool quality (3.42 avg for cat and 3.34 avg for dog). No detriments in nutrient digestibility were observed in dogs fed 5% and 10% Lemna; however, cats fed 10% and 15% Lemna had significantly (P < 0.05) lower dry matter, protein, and energy digestibility versus control. In conclusion, these data suggest more development is needed for Lemna inclusion in companion animal diets.

Thursday, July 23, 2020
PSXI-30 Descriptive sensory evaluation of rotary molded sorghum-based dog treats supplemented with soluble animal protein
Authors: Almeida Krystina A Lema , Aldrich Charles G , Koppel Kadri
Published: November 2020

Treats are food products given to dogs to strengthen bonds between owners and pets. Most treats on the market are made of wheat, mostly because of gluten binding properties. While sorghum lacks gluten, soluble animal proteins could be used as binders instead. The objective of this study was to evaluate appearance, aroma, flavor, texture/mouthfeel, and aftertaste of rotary-molded dog treats made with white (WS) or red (RS) whole sorghum flours. The sorghum biscuits were prepared with spray-dried plasma (SDP), gelatin (GL), egg protein (EP), or no protein (NC). All were compared to a positive control made with whole wheat flour (WF-GTN). The trained sensory panel identified 27 attributes. The products were evaluated on a scale from 0 to 15, using a consensus approach. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with XLSTAT Statistical Software and radar plots were created to visualize correlations between treatments and attributes. Brown and surface cracks were the most differentiating attributes: RS and WS biscuits with SDP or EP resulted in a darker appearance (10.0–14.0), while NC biscuits had more surface cracks (10.0–12.0). Aroma attributes did not vary significantly among samples, except for the overall intensity that was higher for RS-EP (7.0). Grainy was the main flavor and aftertaste, ranging from 4.0–7.0. Other flavors such as cardboard, leavening, starchy, and toasted were perceived in less proportion (2.0–4.0). Initial crispness, hardness, and fracturability were more pronounced in EP treatments (11.0–14.5). All biscuits had less hardness, less cohesiveness of mass, and more particle residuals when compared to the control WF-GTN. This work indicated that formulation had a bigger effect on texture and product appearance rather than flavor, aroma, or aftertaste. These results can be used as insights for pet owners’ interpretation and as preliminary data to describe dog preferences, which may complement instrumental analyses.
PSXI-35 Evaluation of biomarkers N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and troponin-I in healthy Labrador retrievers and Labrador retrievers with subclinical dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Varney Jessica L , Fowler Jason W , Coon Craig N
Published: November 2020

Cardiovascular disease in dogs may have minimal outward signs in the beginning stages, but early detection and intervention are vital to help affected dogs live longer and have better quality of life. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and troponin-I are two biomarkers that show promise for detection of cardiovascular disease at a research level, but a deeper understanding is necessary to bring them into the forefront for diagnostic purposes. The aim of this research was to present values of NT-proBNP and troponin-I in healthy Labrador retrievers and in Labrador retrievers with subclinical dilated cardiomyopathy (subDCM). 55 intact Labrador retrievers (27m/28f) were selected based on good clinical health, with no prior evidence of cardiovascular disease. All dogs were maintained on the same standard kennel diet prior to testing. Each dog had plasma collected for NT-proBNP analysis (Cardiopet; Idexx) and serum collected for troponin-I analysis (Immulite; UC Davis Vet Lab). Each dog then had an echocardiogram performed by an experienced sonographer which was reviewed by a boarded veterinary cardiologist. Out of 55 adult Labrador retrievers, 46 (24m/22f) were classified as normal and 9 (3m/6f) were classified as having occult subDCM. Normal Labrador retrievers had a significantly lower mean NT-proBNP of 695 ± 432 pmol/L compared to subDCM Labrador retrievers with a mean of 1144 ± 546 pmol/L (P = 0.009). Normal Labrador retrievers had a lower mean troponin-I of 0.07 ± 0.04ng/mL compared to subDCM Labrador retrievers with a mean of 0.1 ± 0.07ng/mL, trending towards significance (P = 0.08). In summary, healthy Labrador retrievers had significantly lower NT-proBNP compared to Labrador retrievers affected with subclinical dilated cardiomyopathy.
PSXI-29 Comparison of temporal-spatial and pressure gait analysis between resting and exercised Labrador retrievers
Authors: Varney Jessica L , Fowler Jason W , Coon Craig N
Published: November 2020

Exercise-induced muscle damage and subsequent inflammation and soreness are frequently studied topics in both human and animal trials. Gait analysis using a commercial mat system is a newer technology that identifies the temporal and spatial qualities of a subject’s gait. Gait analysis in healthy canines, especially in an exercise model, has been infrequently studied. Our objectives were to compare gait analysis metrics between exercised and non-exercised dogs, to identify which parameters were most impacted by running exercise, and to identify the ideal time to perform gait analysis post-exercise. Twenty-four Labrador retrievers were used in this trial, with 12 untrained dogs performing one 5km run, and 12 untrained dogs providing a resting comparison. All dogs were gaited using a Gait4Dogs (CIR Systems, Inc) pressure walkway system at baseline, 30min post-run, 3h post-run, and 24h post-run. For pressure measurements, no significant differences were found in resting dogs. In exercised dogs, number of activated sensors was significantly lower 30min post-run compared to baseline (p=0.05). Pressure time was significantly faster 30min post-run compared to 3h post-run (p=0.007), indicating discomfort during the walk. For spatial measurements, no significant differences were found in resting dogs. In exercised dogs, swing% was significantly lower in front limbs at 30min post-run compared to baseline (p=0.001) and in hindlimbs at 30min post-run compared to 3h post-run and 24h post-run (p=0.001), indicating reduced flexion. Stance% was significantly higher in front limbs at 30min post-run compared to all other timepoints (p=0.001) and in hindlimbs at 30min post-run compared to 3h post-run and 24h post-run (p=0.001). Stance time and step time were significantly lower at 3h post-run compared to 30min post-run and 24h post-run (p=0.001;p=0.006), indicating discomfort during the walk. In summary, untrained Labrador retrievers had a significantly affected gait primarily thirty minutes and three hours after exercise compared to resting dogs.
PSVIII-30 Reduced-lignin alfalfa digestibility and effects on performance of growing beef steers
Authors: Karls Caleb , Undersander Dan , Combs David , Donnelly Derek , Engel Cara , Miller Donald , Schaefer Dan
Published: November 2020

Novel alfalfa varieties have been developed to have less lignin by genetic modification, (HarvXtra, Forage Genetics International) and by conventional breeding, (HiGest 360, Alforex Seeds). Second crop (d 29) of these alfalfas and a control, LegenDairy XHD (Winfield Solutions LLC), were harvested as high moisture wrapped bales (45.9–51.6 % DM) at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station (AARS) located near Arlington, WI, on July 5, 2017. The objectives of these experiments were to characterize novel reduced-lignin alfalfa varieties, assess their effects on growth of beef steers, and determine digestibilities using a total fecal collection trial. Treatments were fed ad libitum as alfalfa baleage to 300 kg (initial weight) black-hided beef steers, (n = 72, 4 pens/treatment, 83 d). Steers were fed solely alfalfa baleage and offered a trace mineral salt block by way of fence line feed bunks. Alfalfa lignin values were 7.56, 7.18, and 6.3% DM (P = 0.34) for LegenDairy, HiGest and HarvXtra, respectively. Steers gained 0.94, 1.00, and 1.07 kg hd-1 d-1 (P = 0.25) for LegenDairy, HiGest and HarvXtra, respectively. The same harvested alfalfa was used in a total collection fecal trial with fecal collection bags (Table 1). Numerical differences between alfalfa digestibilities were observed but no significant treatment effects were detected. Total tract NDF digestibilities (TTNDFD) for harvested alfalfas were 33.9, 35.0 and 40.3 % NDF (P = 0.079) for LegenDairy, HiGest and HarvXtra, respectively. Alfalfa lignin concentration differences were not detected through acid detergent-lignin analysis of harvested bales. While the ranking of lignin concentrations, digestibilities, and growth rates followed prevailing logic, alfalfa variety treatment effects were not detected. Experimental designs with greater sensitivity should be implemented in the future.
PSV-35 Correlation of acute-phase blood proteins level and quality and cryostability of sperm in horses
Authors: Atroshchenko Mikhail , Engalycheva Mariya , Kudlaeva Anna , Borodkina Elena , Fomina Mariya , Zvyagina Valentina , Musidray Artem , Timofeeva Svetlana , Sachenkova Daria , Isaeva Varvara
Published: November 2020

The aim of this work was to study the relationship between acute phase indicators of a biochemical blood test with the quality and cryostability sperm in stallions. Semen from 59 stallions (aged from 5 to 15 years) were collected during the breeding season (February–May). Blood plasma samples were studied using a Vegasys automatic biochemical analyzer (Analyzer Medical System, Italy). The following parameters were determined in blood plasma: total protein, level of albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen. Each sperm sample was evaluated by volume, concentration, total sperm, as well as progressive motility and survival of sperm in chilled and thawed sperm during hypothermic storage at +40С. The normality of the distribution of quantitative traits was determined using the Shapiro-Wilk test. For each of the indicators, the Spearman coefficient was calculated. Significance of differences was assessed using the Mann-Whitney test, the results were statistically significant at P ≤0.05. The concentration of biochemical parameters in blood serum averaged: total protein - 67.4 ± 0.7 g/l, albumin - 39.4±0.6 g/l, globulins - 28.4±0.8 g/l, C reactive protein - 0.3±0.1 mg/l, fibrinogen - 3.1±0.1 g/l. A significant negative correlation between the plasma fibrinogen and sperm survival during hypothermic storage (at +4ºС) of chilled (r=0.48; P < 0.001) sperm and progressive sperm motility after thawing (r =-0.29; < 0.05) was found. We suggest that an increase in the level of fibrinogen in the blood may indicate the presence of latent inflammatory, immuno-mediated processes in the body, including those affecting the quality and cryostability of sperm in stallions. Authors acknowledge financial support from Russian Science Foundation, Grant No: 20-16-00101, development program of Bioresource collections “Cryobank of genetic recourses the All-Russian Research Institute for Horse Breeding.”
PSVII-38 Program Chair Poster Pick: Late-Breaking Abstract: A Rapid Consumer Survey Capturing the Perceptions of Beef Marketing Before and During COVID-19
Authors: Snyder Lori Unruh , Fisher Melanie
Published: November 2020

In today’s marketplace, consumers have a plethora of options when it comes to purchasing beef, whether that be conventional, all-natural, organic, or any other feed based labeling. They also have the freedom to make that purchasing decision based on the brand, packaging, and price just to name a few. However, the supply of beef that is on the shelves for consumers changed since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. This poster reveals that no significant differences were recorded with purchasing decisions nor marketing decisions; however, data was analyzed for themes that are present during this pandemic.The purpose of this study is to find out how the purchasing behaviors of consumers have changed since the COVID-19 outbreak in terms of beef. Are specialty labels less important? Does brand loyalty still matter? In order to evaluate this, we asked consumers several questions to better understand current behaviors and trends for the marketing of beef products. The poster will provide the coded data and summaries of the total population of 54 participants.
PSVII-36 Late-Breaking Abstract: Protein concentrations in basal diets affect metabolizable energy of feed ingredients determined by difference procedure in pigs
Authors: Kim Hansol , Sung Jung Yeol , Kim Beob G
Published: November 2020

The objective was to investigate the influence of crude protein (CP) concentrations in the basal diet on the metabolizable energy (ME) of feed ingredients determined using the difference procedure in pigs. Twelve barrows (73.7 ± 5.5 kg body weight) individually housed in metabolism crates were used. A low-protein basal diet (LPBD, 7.4% CP) was composed of 97.5% corn as the sole energy source and a high-protein basal diet (HPBD, 14.3% CP) was composed of 78.0% corn and 19.6% soybean meal. Four additional diets were prepared by replacing 20% of the energy sources in the basal diets with full-fat soybean (FFSB, 37.7% CP) or soy protein isolate (SPI, 87.6% CP). The 6 experimental diets were fed to 12 pigs employing a replicated 6 × 4 incomplete Latin square design with 4 periods. Each period was consisted of 4 days of adaptation and 4 days of collection period and the marker-to-marker method was used for fecal collection. Urinary gross energy output was greater (243 vs. 176 kcal/d; P < 0.05) in the HPBD group compared with the LPBD group. While ME in the HPBD was greater (3,418 vs. 3,322 kcal/kg; P < 0.05) than in the LPBD, ME in FFSB diets (3,585 and 3,633 kcal/kg in the LPBD and HPBD group, respectively) and SPI diets (3,537 and 3,537 kcal/kg, respectively) were not different between the 2 basal diet groups. Metabolizable energy of the test ingredients was less (P < 0.05) in pigs fed the HPBD group (4,565 and 4,111 kcal/kg in FFSB and SPI, respectively) compared with pigs fed the LPBD group (4,756 and 4,517 kcal/kg in FFSB and SPI, respectively). In conclusion, as the protein in the basal diet increases, metabolizable energy in a test ingredient determined using the difference procedure decreases mainly due to greater urinary energy output in pigs.
PSVIII-38 Late-Breaking Abstract: Estimating genetic parameters of feed efficiency traits in American mink
Authors: Davoudi Pourya , Do Duy Ngoc , Hu Guoyu , Ardestani Siavash Salek , Miar Younes
Published: November 2020

Feed cost is the major input cost in the mink industry and thus improvement of feed efficiency through selection for high feed efficient mink is necessary for the mink farmers. The objective of this study was to estimate the heritability, phenotypic and genetic correlations for different feed efficiency measures, including final body weight (FBW), daily feed intake (DFI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and residual feed intake (RFI). For this purpose, 1,088 American mink from the Canadian Center for Fur Animal Research at Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture were recorded for daily feed intake and body weight from August 1 to November 14 in 2018 and 2019. The univariate models were used to test the significance of sex, birth year and color as fixed effects, and dam as a random effect. Genetic parameters were estimated via bivariate models using ASReml-R version 4. Estimates of heritabilities (±SE) were 0.41±0.10, 0.37±0.11, 0.33±0.14, 0.24±0.09 and 0.22±0.09 for FBW, DFI, ADG, FCR and RFI, respectively. The genetic correlation (±SE) was moderate to high between FCR and RFI (0.68±0.15) and between FCR and ADG (-0.86±0.06). In addition, RFI had low non-significant (P > 0.05) genetic correlations with ADG (0.04 ± 0.26) and BW (0.16 ± 0.24) but significant (P < 0.05) high genetic correlation with DFI (0.74 ± 0.11) indicating that selection for lower RFI will reduce feed intake without adverse effects on the animal size and growth rate. The results suggested that RFI can be implemented in genetic/genomic selection programs to reduce feed intake in the mink production system.
PSX-34 Late-Breaking Abstract: Effect of Genotype and Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) on milk yield of Ankole and its crossbreeds in Rwanda
Authors: Ntawubizi Martin , Niyonzima Yvan Bienvenu , Rydhmer Lotta , Hirwa Claire D’André , Manzi Maximillian , Strandberg Erling
Published: November 2020

The trend in crossbreeding the indigenous and resilient “Ankole” cattle with imported high performant breeds in Rwanda, believed to boost milk production while tempering on adaptive traits to local environment, leaves cautions on a profiling “genetic erosion” of Ankole. It is uncertain establishing whether new crossbreeds would acquire necessary resilience to parasites and climate stressors, where access to data records is unfordable. The objective of this study was to assess the environmental effect on milk yield (MY) in Ankole and its crossbreeds (with Holstein Frisian-AF, Jersey-AJ and Sahiwal-AS). Data of daily MY (61984 records; n = 188 cows), ambient temperature and relative humidity have been recorded from 2 research farms (Rubona-2.5536’ S, 29.6014’ and Songa-2.24’S, 29.46’E) located in the mid-altitude zone (1400–1500 m.a.s.l), on a period of 4 years (2014–2017). Fixed effects of Temperature-Humidity Index (THI, measure of Heat Stress), parity, genotype and station on MY have been investigated, using a General Linear Model (Y = μ+ p + g + s + rTHI + ℮; SAS 9.4). Results indicated an overall negative effect of THI threshold values on ML (P > 0.0001), with an aggregate decline slope of 0.12kg/day/THI. Ankole breed showed a lower ML decline slope (0.02 kg/day/THI) after the THI threshold of 75, suggesting its ability to resist in heat stress with relatively milder effect on its daily milk yield. However, although with important MY loss induced by THI as compared to Ankole, results suggested the ability of crossbreeds to withstand higher levels of THI thresholds evaluated at 76 with a decline slope of 0.08kg/day/THI and 0.12kg/day/THI, respectively for AH and AJ, while THI thresholds for AS was found at 77 (0.12kg/day/THI). The observed relative resistance of Ankole crossbreds to higher heat stress levels would suggest a possible heterosis effect.
PSX-29 Late-Breaking Abstract: The effectiveness of in vivo determination of meat quality using an ultrasonic scanning device in Kazakhstan
Authors: Bissembayev Anuarbek , Abuyev Nurzhan , Seitmuratov Anuarbek , Nazarbekov Altay , Zhali Saule
Published: November 2020

Improving beef quality is important task for livestock in Kazakhstan. Almost all indicators characterizing the quality of carcasses and beef are evaluated after slaughter. Their use in breeding is limited (Legoshin G.P. 2010). For lifetime assessment of carcasses in pedigree and slaughter cattle, Aloka 500B, EXAGO, EVO ultrasonographs are used, using which there is a high coincidence of the lifetime forecast of muscular development over the eye muscle area with the indicator in carcasses after slaughter of animals (Bisembaev A.T. 2019). A high correlation of prognosis of ribeye area with live weight of animals was noted (Lisitsyn A.B. 2010). The aim of the project is to study the effectiveness of in vivo determination of meat quality using an ultrasonic scanning device. Tasks: to determine the ribeye area, the fat of the cattle using an EXAGO ultrasonograph; compare the ribeye area, the fat of the slaughter cattle, determined using an EXAGO ultrasonograph and measured on the carcass after slaughter. The studies were carried out on pedigree bull-calves of the Kazakh white head (85 animals), Auliekol (101 animals) breeds aged 14–15 months and on the feeding stock (6 animals) with a live weight of more than 943 lb. The ribeye area, the fat were obtained: Kazakh white head had 23.2 sq.in and 0.10 in, Auliekol – 20.4 sq.in and 0.09 in. The animals studied after slaughter yielded full-bodied carcasses, while the slaughter yield averaged 56.3%. The correlation between live weight level and ribeye was r=0.97. The coincidence of ribeye, measured by an ultrasonograph with a post-mortem measurement averaging 93.8%. The introduction of ultrasound methods for determining beef productivity in beef industry will allow livestock husbandry to become cost-effective and improve the beef quality. The results of ultrasound images for the carcass traits will be applied in selection and breeding work.
PSX-38 Late-Breaking Abstract: Sequential feeding with diets varying differ in amino acid content on nutrient balance in growing-finishing pigs
Authors: Veira Alini M , Santos Luan S , Campos Paulo H R F , Hauschild Luciano
Published: November 2020

This study evaluated the effect of conventional and sequential feeding programs with diets varying in amino acid content over the day on nutrient balance for growing-finishing pig. Sixty-eight barrows with an average initial BW of 25.0±2.04 were housed in a single pen with five automatic intelligent precision feeders (AIPF; University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain). Pigs were distributed in four feeding programs: 1) conventional feeding (CONV) in which pigs received 100% of SID AA recommendations for the entire day; 2) sequential feeding (SEQ80-120) providing 80% SID AA recommendations from 0000 to 1159h and 120% from 1200 to 2359h; 3) sequential feeding (SEQ70-130) providing 70% SID AA recommendations from 0000 to 1159h and 130% from 1200 to 2359h; and 4) sequential feeding (SEQ60-140) providing 60% SID AA recommendations from 0000 to 1159h and 140% from 1200 to 2359h. Body lean mass and mineral body content were obtained by DXA analysis and were converted to body protein and P content. Three contrasts were constructed to evaluate the effects between CONV and sequential treatments. In phase 1 (0–28d), pigs fed SEQ70-130 presented higher crude protein intake, N retention, N excretion, P intake and P retention (P < 0.05) compared to CONV fed pigs. SEQ 60–140 fed pigs presented higher P retention and P retention efficiency (P < 0.05) compared to CONV fed pigs. In phase 2 (29–54d), no statistical difference for any evaluated variable was verified (P > 0.05). In phase 3 (55–82d), SEQ70-130 fed pigs showed higher N excretion and lower N retention efficiency and lysine efficiency (P < 0.05) when compared to CONV fed pigs. In the entire experimental period (0–82d), there were no significant differences between treatments. According to our results, sequential feeding program improves nutrient balance of pigs at the beginning of the growth period.
PSX-41 Late-Breaking Abstract: Self-reported statistical training of graduate students associated with confidence in performing statistical analyses
Authors: Serão Nick V , Petry Amy L , Sanglard Leticia P
Published: November 2020

Training in statistical analysis is essential to Animal Science graduate student curricula. Recently, with the increased use of high-throughput technologies in Animal Science fields, graduate students need certain statistical competencies to manage and analyze so-called “Big Data.” The objective of this study was to identify the current statistical competencies associated with graduate students’ perceived confidence to perform statistical analyses. Data from a comprehensive survey of students enrolled in Animal Science-related graduate programs (n = 354; 125 M.S. and 229 Ph.D. students), representing 42 U.S. universities, were used. Students scored their competencies in 32 topics, such as analyzing ANOVA, mixed models, non-normal data, etc., using a 6-point scale: from 0 to 5, representing no to high knowledge, respectively. Confidence in performing statistical analysis (CPSA) was calculated as the sum of the scores across all topics. Participant’s CPSA scores ranged from 12 to 151, averaging 80.3±28.6. Two backward regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with CPSA, based on the evaluation of self-perceived competencies on 30 topics covered in statistics courses: one based on their perceived received education (PRE) and one on their perceived knowledge (PK). Thirteen topics were selected (P < 0.15) in each analysis, with 7 overlapping, resulting in R-squareds of 56.9% (PRE) and 71.4% (PK). Overlapping topics included descriptive statistics, heterogeneous variances, linear regression, mean separation, mixed models, normality, and observational studies. The only topic with a negative effect on CPSA was the PK of Negative Binomial analysis, indicating graduate students with greater perceived knowledge for this topic had a lower CPSA. The perceived confidence in performing statistical analyses of Animal Science graduate students seems to increase with their perceived training and knowledge in common statistical methods, whereas statistical competencies needed in the “Big Data” era (e.g. generalized linear and multivariate methods) have limited impact or are not covered.
PSV-30 Influence of crossbreeding on meat production, growth, meat quality, and carcass traits within sheep fed the same diet
Authors: Sabrekova Valentina , Nikanova Daria A , Timoshenko Yulia , Shaydullin Ilyas , Feyzullaev Feyzullah
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of crossbreeding on meat production traits of sheep. Purebred (Volgograd breed, n = 30) and crossbred (F3, Volgograd x ¼ North Caucasian breed, n=30) sheep were fed for 60 days from the age of 8 months. The diet was the same for both groups and included: a dry fodder of mixed herbs, green-cut fodder, stock feed of barley, and salt. The initial liveweight for purebred sheep was 42.39±0.38 kg and for crossbred sheep was 44.41±0.47 kg (P < 0.01). The final liveweight for purebred sheep was 50.10±0.43 kg. Crossbred sheep were heavier at 52.40±0.36 kg (P < 0.001). The weight of carcasses was greater for crossbred sheep at 22.87±0.53 kg (P < 0.05) and 20.67±0.76 kg for purebred sheep. Compared with purebred sheep, crossbred sheep had a lower amount of internal fat (0.92±0.27 kg vs. 1.18±0.35 kg). The weight of meat from purebred sheep was less than crossbred sheep (16.12±0.63 kg vs. 18.28±0.43 kg, P < 0.05) while the weight of bone was almost the same (4.55 vs. 4.59 kg). Consequently, the ratio of meat/bone was 5.54 vs. 3.98. The food energy value for the meat of purebred sheep was greater at 259.36±16.78 kcal than the meat of crossbred sheep at 233.85±11.10 kcal. Total moisture in the meat of purebred sheep was lower (60.11±0.67 vs. 63.05±0.65, P < 0.05), total protein was a little higher (17.71±0.77 vs. 17.63±0.24), and lipids were higher (20.73±0.73 vs. 17.89±0.82, P < 0.05) than in the meat of crossbred sheep. The meat of purebred sheep had a lower concentration of non-replaceable amino acid (12.47 g) compared with meat of crossbred sheep (17.20 g), and a lower concentration of replaceable amino acid (23.08 g vs. 26.84 g). The results of this study can be used to improve meat production and meat quality.
PSV-28 Feeding Ractopamine Improves Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of the Lard-type Mangalica Pig
Authors: Smith Hunter R , Reeves Maegan , Amerson Ellie , Sawyer Jason T , Brandebourg Terry D
Published: November 2020

Mangalica pigs are a popular niche breed given their reputation for superior quality pork; however, the slow growth rate, poor lean yield and excessive adiposity exhibited by this breed limits its widespread adoption. Our objective was to determine if feeding Ractopamine (RAC), a metabolic modifier that improves feed efficiency and lean yield, would improve growth performance without impairing pork quality in the Mangalica. To accomplish this, a growth trial was conducted whereby pigs (n = 28) weighing 73 kg were fed a standard grower ration supplemented with either 0 or 22 ppm RAC for 21 days during which daily feed intakes and weekly body weights were recorded for all animals. Then pigs were finished to a 105 kg harvest weight. At 24h postmortem, carcasses were ribbed at the 10th rib to facilitate pork quality and carcass composition measurements. Primal cuts were fabricated and individually weighed. As hypothesized, RAC increased ADG (P < 0.04) and feed efficiency (P < 0.03) 24% and 21% respectively. However, unexpectedly, RAC failed to suppress voluntary feed intake (P > 0.71). Interestingly RAC increased LEA (P < 0.0001) by 21% but did not impact 10th rib fat depth (P > 0.90) or marbling score (P > 0.77). Likewise, RAC failed to alter any primal cut weights. Feeding RAC lowered b* values (P < 0.04) and tended to lower L* values (P < 0.08) while not affecting a* values (P > 0.30) suggesting RAC darkened loin color. Finally, RAC improved cook loss percentage (P < 0.02) 11% while not impacting WBSF (P > 0.31). Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that feeding RAC to the lard type Mangalica pig improves growth performance without impairing pork quality in this breed. Feeding RAC may be a viable strategy to improve the economic feasibility of utilizing this breed to target niche markets.
PSIII-40 Essential oil blend as a possible alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production
Authors: Canal Bernat , Mesas Luis , Puyalto Mónica , Sol Cinta , Agus Ali , Anas Muhsin Al , Mallo Juan José
Published: November 2020

Despite the limited use of antibiotics as growth promoters (AGPs) in a number of countries, many others find a useful tool in them. However, many producers in the later regions are transitioning to AGP-free production for commercial reasons. The aim of this trial was to determine whether a blend of essential oils (EO), like oregano or clove, could reach similar production/health parameters compared to an AGP treatment used in broiler production. A total of 1,200 one-day-old chicks were distributed in 2 treatments within 12 floor pens (n = 6). The treatments were: T1-basal feed + AGP (Enramycin 10ppm); T2-basal feed + EO (1kg/t). The trial lasted 35d and performance parameters were recorded weekly. On day 21 and 35, one bird per pen was euthanized for intestinal and carcass analysis. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA using the GLM procedure of SAS 9.0. There were no significant differences in the performance parameters at 35d. A trend was observed of higher BW (P = 0.062) at 28d for EO birds (1,708g) compared to AGP birds (1,671g), which relates to another trend (P = 0.071) of increased daily gain from 21-28d (685g and 653g for EO and AGP treatments respectively). A relevant finding was a significantly (P = 0.034) higher mortality in AGP birds from 0-28d (4.83%) compared to EO birds (3.00%). In the post-mortem analysis no differences were observed in intestinal segments in relative and total length. However, animals from T2 showed a trend (P = 0.077) to have heavier gizzards at 21d, which could indicate an effect of EO on their development, while T1 animals had a significantly heavier cecum at 35d (P = 0.026). No relevant findings were observed in carcass weights and yield. These results suggest that this EO blend could be a valid alternative to AGPs, although further trials under commercial conditions should be carried out to confirm its potential.
PSII-26 Early- and mid- lactation milk traits are associated with piglet growth during lactation
Authors: Rempel Lea A , Oliver William T , Jeremy Miles R
Published: November 2020

Preweaning piglet growth is tied to milk quality and consumption. To determine the relationship of milk components from parity 1–4 dams and piglet growth, early and mid-lactation (d 2 and 16) milk samples were collected from 48 litters and analyzed for protein, fat, somatic cell count, lactose, solids, total solids, and milk urea nitrogen. Each milk trait was categorically identified at 25, 50 or 75 percentiles as low, moderate, or high, respectively. Mixed models (SAS); dam repeated, sire random, and adjusted for parity and litter size; were used to determine association of individual milk traits with piglet lactation growth (gain calculated from body weights at birth, d10, and weaning; WN). Moderate levels of d2 milk protein were associated with the greatest gain during lactation in comparison to low and high levels (Table 1). High levels of d2 milk lactose and d2 solids were both related to piglet gain over the lactation period (Table 1). Evaluation of d16 milk traits with piglet gain over lactation indicated high levels of d16 fat, d16 solids, and d16 total solids had the greatest gain in comparison to moderate and low levels of each trait (Table 1). Within phase of lactation weight gain, association of d2 or d16 milk traits with early weight gain (birth to d10) or late weight gain (d10 to WN) were performed. The greatest early lactation gains (birth to d10) were associated with moderate levels of d2 protein, high levels of d2 lactose and d2 solids, and low levels of d2 MUN (Table 2). High levels of milk fat, lactose, and solids at d2 were associated with piglet gain during late lactation (d10 to WN; Table 3). In general, greater levels of lactose in d2 milk and fat in d16 milk were associated with piglet gain during lactation.
PSII-29 Effects of delayed injection of prostaglandin F2α and TAI in the 14-d CIDR-PG & TAI protocol in replacement beef heifers
Authors: Oosthuizen Nicky , Melo Gabriela , Stewart Lawton , Seidel George , Lamb Graham Cliff , Fontes Pedro
Published: November 2020

To determine the effects of delaying the injection of prostaglandin F2α (PGF) and fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) in the 14-d CIDR-PG & TAI protocol, 911 Angus heifers at 5 locations were enrolled in a completely randomized design. Within location heifers were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups: 1) PG16 (n = 452), heifers received a CIDR insert on d 0 for 14 d, a 25-mg injection of PGF 16 d after CIDR removal [d 30], and a 100-µg injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone concurrently with TAI 66 ± 2 h later; or 2) PG17 (n = 459), heifers were treated the same as PG16, however, PGF was administered 17 d after CIDR removal [d 31], and heifers were TAI 66 ± 2 h later. Estrus detection patches were applied to heifers at the time of PGF administration and were examined for activation at TAI. Dominant follicle diameter was determined via transrectal ultrasonography at PGF administration and TAI in a subset of heifers (n = 171). Furthermore, transrectal ultrasonography was performed to determine pregnancy rates to TAI (PR/AI) between 30 and 45 d after TAI. Estrus expression prior to TAI was similar (P = 0.50) between treatments (48.9 vs. 52.0%, respectively). Moreover, dominant follicle diameter at PGF and TAI was similar (P ≥ 0.43) between PG16 and PG17 heifers. Pregnancy rates to TAI did not differ (P = 0.48) between treatment groups (46.4 vs. 48.9%, respectively). The results of this experiment indicate that delaying the injection of PGF from d 30 to d 31 along with TAI in the 14-day CIDR-PG & TAI protocol had no effects on fertility parameters in beef heifers. In conclusion, the PGF injection and TAI in the 14-d CIDR-PG & TAI protocol may be delayed, providing more flexibility in scheduling without negatively affecting fertility.
PSII-25 Detection of neurotransmitter-related molecules by untargeted metabolomic analysis of rumen fluid from monensin-treated temperate and tropically adapted beef cattle
Authors: Wellman Catherine L , Rabalais Madaline , Klemashevich Cory , Somenahally Anil C , Long Charles R , Randel Ron D , Welsh Thomas H
Published: November 2020

The effect of an ionophore on the ruminal metabolome of temperate and tropically-adapted cattle was evaluated. For 21 d, five Angus, 5 Brahman, and 5 BrahmanXAngus F1 steers (264 kg BW) with 5 steers per pen within breedtype, were fed Tifton bermudagrass hay ad libitum, at the conclusion of which rumen fluid (100-to-250 mL) was collected and stored at -80°C (PRE). During a subsequent 21-d period, all steers were fed Tifton hay ad libitum plus a supplement (908 g corn, 217 g soybean meal, 60 g dried molasses) with monensin (220 mg·steer−1·d−1) individually, at the conclusion of which rumen fluid (100-to-250 mL) was collected and stored at -80°C (POST). Rumen fluid samples were processed for an untargeted analysis by LC/MS on Compound Discoverer v.3.1. Approximately 2,043 compounds were detected with 825 being annotated by ChemSpider and other databases, of which several were associated with four neurotransmitters; acetylcholine (ACh), dopamine, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and serotonin. After monensin, several ACh-related molecules increased (P < 0.003) in Angus (POST:PRE ratio=7.906) but ACh decreased (P < 0.043) in the F1 (ratio= 0.391) steers. Dopamine and dopamine-related molecules decreased (P < 0.01) in Angus (ratio= 0.149) and F1 steers (ratio= 0.206) after monensin. No changes for rumen presence of ACh or dopamine occurred in Brahman steers after monensin. Multiple molecules related to GABA increased in Angus (P < 0.03) and Brahman (P < 0.02) steers. Serotonin-related molecules such as the metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA; ratio= 4.389) increased (P < 0.005) only in Brahman steers. The addition of monensin to the diet differentially altered the presence of neurotransmitter-related molecules in the rumen fluid of temperate and tropically adapted beef cattle. Further research regarding physiological roles of ruminal neurotransmitters and modulation by ionophores that affect ruminal microbiota is warranted. Support: USDA FAH
PSII-28 Effect of route of administration of dinoprost tromethamine on serum profiles of PGFM and progesterone in lactating Holstein cows
Authors: Mezera Megan A , Lauber Megan R , Beard Adam D , Cabrera Elisa M , Wiltbank Milo C , Fricke Paul M
Published: November 2020

Our objective was to compare serum profiles of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGFM) and circulating progesterone (P4) concentrations in lactating Holstein cows based on route of administration of dinoprost tromethamine administered 7 d after administration of GnRH. Multiparous lactating Holstein cows were fitted with indwelling jugular catheters 6 d after the last GnRH treatment of an Ovsynch protocol (d 0), and cows were randomized on d 7 to receive 25 mg dinoprost tromethamine (2 mL Lutalyse® HighCon; Zoetis, Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ) either s.c. in the neck (SC; n = 6) or i.m. in the semitendenous muscle (IM; n = 6). Blood samples were collected via jugular catheters 24, 2, and 1 h before treatment to establish baseline P4 concentrations. Blood samples were collected every 15 min after treatment for 1.75 h, then every 30 min for 48 h, and at 60 and 72 h with the last time point corresponding to timed AI after an Ovsynch protocol. Serum samples were stored frozen and later assayed for PGFM and P4 concentrations via ELISA. Circulating PGFM concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) for SC than for IM cows from 15 to 90 minutes after treatment which resulted in a greater (P = 0.02) area under the PGFM curve during the first 2 h after treatment (2,223 ± 160 pg•hr/mL vs. 1,586 ± 150 pg•hr/mL for SC vs. IM cows, respectively). By contrast, circulating P4 concentrations normalized to percent of baseline P4 concentrations did not differ between treatments at any time point after treatment during the experiment. In conclusion, although SC cows had greater circulating PGFM concentrations 15 to 90 min after treatment than IM cows, the decrease in circulating P4 concentrations during induced luteolysis did not differ based on route of dinoprost tromethamine administration. Supported by NIFA USDA Hatch project 1019532.
PSII-33 Mitigation of testicular heat stress in boars with PG600
Authors: Parrish John J , Berndtson Jodi L
Published: November 2020

Testicular heat stress due to increasing summer temperatures negatively impacts spermatogenesis reducing semen quality in boars. Scrotal insulation (SI) can mimic summer heat stress. Our hypothesis is that PG600 can mitigate heat stress in boars. PG600 is human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and equine chorionic gonadotropin (ECG) which have LH- and FSH-like effects respectively. During spermatogenesis, LH impacts testosterone production by Leydig cells and FSH impacts Sertoli cells to produce androgen receptors, inhibit apoptotic signals and sustain spermatogenesis. Eight boars (8–12 months of age) were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: SI + saline or SI + PG600. The SI was applied for 48 hrs. Injections were administered 24 hrs prior to SI application and again at onset of SI. PG600 was given at a standard gilt dose to induce puberty. Semen was collected every M-W-F for two weeks prior to treatment and 44 days post-treatment. Semen was evaluated for nuclear head shape via Fourier harmonic analysis (FHA) described as Harmonic amplitudes 0–5 (HA0-5). Semen for each collection day post-treatment was compared to the average of the semen collection days pre-treatment, described as day 0. Scrotal insulation produced a 3.7°C increase in average scrotal temperature for 48 hrs. Post-SI + saline, HA0 decreased on days 21–33 (P < 0.05), HA1 increased on day 30 (P < 0.05), HA2 decreased on day 35 (P < 0.05), HA3 increased on days 21–33 (P < 0.05), HA4 increased on days 21–26 (P < 0.05), and HA5 increased on days 21–30 (P < 0.05). Post-SI + PG600, decreased the number of days post-SI when changes in harmonic amplitudes were seen (P < 0.05) as well as the magnitude of the response (P < 0.05). PG600 was for the first time shown to significantly mitigated the response of boars to SI and testicular heat stress. Increased doses of PG600 may improve results.
PSXI-22 Prediction quality of cattle behavior traits evaluated through different cross-validation strategies using wearable sensor data and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Ribeiro Leonardo Augusto Coelho , Bresolin Tiago , Rosa Guilherme J M , Casagrande Daniel Rume , Danes Marina De Arruda Camargo , Dorea Joao R
Published: November 2020

Wearable sensors have been adopted as an alternative for real-time monitoring of cattle feeding behavior in grazing systems. However, even using machine learning (ML) techniques confounding effects such as cross-validation strategy may inflate the prediction quality. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of different cross-validation strategies on the prediction of grazing activities in cattle using wearable sensor data and ML algorithms. Six Nellore bulls (345 ± 21 kg) had their behavior visually classified as grazing or not-grazing for a period of 15 days. Generalized Linear Model (GLM), Random Forest (RF), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were employed to predict behavior (grazing or not-grazing) using 3-axis accelerometer data. For each analytical method, three cross-validation strategies were evaluated: holdout, leave-one-animal-out (LOAO), and leave-one-day-out (LODO). Algorithms were trained using similar dataset sizes (holdout: n = 57,862; LOAO: n = 56,786; LODO: n = 56,672). Regardless of the cross-validation strategy, GLM achieved the worst prediction accuracy (53%) compared to the ML techniques (65% for both RF and ANN). ANN performed slightly better than RF for LOAO (73%) and LODO (64%) cross-validation strategies. The holdout yielded the highest accuracy values for all three ML approaches (GLM: 59%, RF: 76%, and ANN: 74%), followed by LODO (58%) and LOAO (55%). In conclusion, the GLM approach was not adequate to predict grazing behavior, regardless of the cross-validation strategy. The greater prediction accuracy observed for holdout cross-validation may simply indicate a lack of data independence and the presence of carry-over effects from animals and grazing management. Our results suggest that generalizing predictive models to unknown (not used for training) animals or grazing management may incur in poor prediction quality. The results highlight the need for using biological knowledge to define the validation strategy that is closer to the real-life situation.
PSXI-14 Effects of pen cleaning on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of beef steers fed during the winter in the northern Great Plains
Authors: Neville Bryan W , Moore Rebecca L , Rodehorst Wayde J
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of winter pen cleaning on livestock performance of beef cattle fed to finish in the Northern Great Plains. One hundred fifty-six mixed-breed beef steers (284 ± 14 kg) were assigned to one of 12 pens. Treatments were assigned randomly to pen and consisted of: 1) Control - no cleaning, 2) Apron - bunk aprons (approximately 3 m behind the bunk) cleaned twice throughout the study, and 3) Full - entirety of the pen cleaned twice throughout the study. Full pens or bunk aprons were cleaned on two occasions at 56-day intervals. Pens were stocked at a similar density, approximately 26.9 m2 of pen space per steer. Steers were adapted to and finished a common finishing diet. Cattle were provided fresh bedding weekly, with an estimated 2.5 kg cereal straw·steer−1·d−1 used as bedding during the study. Pen cleaning did not influence (P ≥ 0.48) final body weight (628 ± 12 kg), or average daily gain (1.8 ± 0.03 kg/d). Dry matter intake (10.6 ± 0.24 kg) and feed efficiency (0.167 kg gain:kg dry matter intake) were similar (P ≥ 0.55) across treatment. Hot carcass weight, ribeye area, back fat and yield grade of carcasses were not affected (P ≥ 0.44) by pen cleaning treatment. Increasing extent of pen cleaning increased marbling score (P = 0.03; 444, 463, and 484 ± 11.1 for control, apron, and full, respectively). Quality grade was greater (P < 0.05) in carcasses resulting from steers managed with either pen cleaning strategy compared to control. Further, increasing extent of pen cleaning increased (P = 0.03) quality grade of carcasses. Pen cleaning did not improve animal performance in this study, which was unexpected. Further research on the accumulation of marbling over time with different pen cleaning systems is warranted.