bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
185 Effects of a Lactobacillus Fermentation Product on the Fecal Characteristics, Fecal Microbial Populations, Immune Function, and Stress Markers of Adult Dogs
Authors: Koziol Samantha A , Oba Patricia Massae , Soto-Diaz Katiria , Steelman Andrew J , Suchodolski Jan S , Eckhardt Erik , Swanson Kelly S
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to measure the effects of a Lactobacillus fermentation product (LBFP) on fecal characteristics and microbiota, blood biomarkers, immune function, and serum oxidative stress markers of adult dogs. Thirty adult beagle dogs [23 M, 7 F; mean age = 8.47 ± 2.65 y old; mean BW = 15.43 ± 4.17 kg] were used in a completely randomized design study. All dogs were fed a basal diet to maintain BW for 5 wk, followed by baseline blood and fecal sample collections. Dogs remained on the same diet, but then were randomly assigned to a placebo (dextrose) or LBFP supplement (both dosed at 4 mg/kg BW via gelatin capsule) for 5 wk (n = 15/treatment). Fecal and blood samples were collected at that time. Change from baseline data were analyzed using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4, with P < 0.05 being significant and P < 0.10 being trends. Most circulating metabolites and immunoglobulins (Ig) were unaltered by treatment, but LBFP-supplemented dogs had lower changes in serum corticosteroid isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.05), alanine aminotransferase (P < 0.10), and IgM (P < 0.10) than controls. The change in fecal scores tended to be less (P = 0.068) in LBFP-supplemented dogs than controls, signifying firmer feces in LBFP-supplemented dogs. Regarding the fecal microbiota, alpha diversity indicators tended to be greater (P = 0.087) in LBFP-supplemented dogs than controls. One fecal bacterial phyla (Actinobacteriota) was altered by treatments, with its relative abundance tending to have a greater (P < 0.10) increase in controls than LBFP-supplemented dogs. Fifteen bacterial genera were altered (P < 0.05 or P < 0.10) by treatments, including relative abundances of fecal Peptoclostridium, Sarcina, and Faecalitalea that had a greater (P < 0.05) increase in controls than LBFP-supplemented dogs. In contrast, relative abundances of fecal Faecalibaculum, Bifidobacterium, and uncultured Butyricicoccaceae had a greater (P ≤ 0.05) increase in LBFP-supplemented dogs than controls. After wk 5, dogs underwent transport stress (45 min vehicle ride) to assess oxidative stress markers. The change in serum superoxide dismutase after transport had a greater (P < 0.0001) increase in LBFP-supplemented dogs than controls. Our data suggest that LBFP may provide benefits to dogs by stabilizing stool quality, beneficially shifting fecal microbiota, and protecting against oxidative damage when subjected to stress.
188 Optimal Dose and Functional Properties of Yeast Supplementation in Adult Cats
Authors: de Souza Junior Sergio Miranda , de Godoy Maria R C , Putarov Thaila Cristina
Published: November 2023

Yeast cell wall products have shown different health benefits, such as antioxidant properties, increase of short-chain fatty acids production by intestinal microbes, and immune-stimulatory effects. These benefits are mediated by beta-glucan activity. This study aims to evaluate the optimal level of inclusion of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and the longitudinal effects of supplementation for skin and coat quality, and oxidative biomarkers such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), c-reactive protein (CRP), and inflammatory biomarkers from a panel of 19 cytokines and chemokines, as well as the fecal metabolites such as phenol, indole, SCFA, and ammonia of adult cats. The study was a complete randomized design with 40 cats divided into 4 treatments (n = 10/trt). Animals were fed complete and balanced extruded diets with yeast inclusion in different levels formulated for maintenance. The 4 different diets were a control diet (CON) with no yeast inclusion, a low dose yeast diet (400 ppm of beta-glucan; LOW), a medium dose yeast diet (800 ppm of beta-glucan; MED), and a high dose yeast diet (1,600 ppm of beta-glucan; HIGH). Longitudinal analyses were performed every 21 days for a total of 42 days. Cats fed CON treatment had greatest scores (P < 0.05) for hair quality and gloss compared with LOW treatment for main treatment effect. Although no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed for oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, as well as fecal fermentative-end products. In conclusion, the optimal dose of yeast supplementation showed no detrimental effects on oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers, as well as fecal fermentative end products, and had comparable effects on skin and coat quality among the different dosages for adult cats.
202 Functional Properties of Ganoderma Lucidum (GL) Supplementation in Canine Nutrition
Authors: Kayser Emanuela , Osorio Luis M G M , de Godoy Maria R C
Published: November 2023

Ganoderma lucidum (GL) is a mushroom that has been widely used in Asia for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capacity. However, the nutraceutical properties of GL have not been tested in dogs. Forty adult beagles were used in a completely randomized design. Dogs were fed a commercial dry extruded complete and balanced diet plus GL top-dressed daily upon feeding time. Four experimental treatments were used: 0% GL supplementation (control), 5 mg/ kg BW of GL, 10 mg/ kg BW of GL, or 15 mg/kg BW of GL. Following a 7-d adaptation to the control diet, dogs were fed their respective treatment diets for 28 d. They were challenged with vaccination of a modified live virus Canine Distemper, Adenovirus Type 1 (Hepatitis), Adenovirus Type 2, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus and killed Rabies Virus on d 7 with blood collections on d 0, 14, and 28. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of dietary inclusion of GL on vaccine-specific serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and fecal microbiota. The vaccine-specific serum IgG concentrations, following vaccination for rabies, in adult dogs fed 15 mg/kg of GL were greater (P = 0.0384) than the group control when analyzed as a fold change from baseline. The predominant phyla that comprised the fecal microbial community of the dogs in all groups were Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Fusobacteriota. At the class level, Bacilli, Bacteroidia, Clostridia, Fusobacteriia, and Negativicutes had greater relative abundance. The α and β diversities of fecal microbial communities were not impacted by treatment. These data suggest that the inclusion of GL had no detrimental effects on fecal microbiota. And due to impact in vaccine response among treatments, GL may exert beneficial immunomodulatory effects in healthy adult dogs when provided at a daily dose of 15 mg/ kg BW.
60 Aafco Approval and Regulatory Process for Novel Ingredients
Authors: Koutsos Liz , Haynes Carson
Published: November 2023

In this presentation, we will explore different pathways in the regulatory approval process. There are three routes that individuals or companies can take to gain approval for an ingredient in a target species. The most common and rigorous of the three is the AAFCO Ingredient Definition process, which takes at least 18 months from start to finish. This process involves a six-month FDA review period of safety data generated in a target species, gathered after feeding a range of inclusions of the target ingredient. Additionally, manufacturing and analytical data are required for this process. After FDA review, there is a minimum of one year for review by the AAFCO ingredient definition committee and general membership. The second regulatory route we will discuss is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). This route can be shorter but will require similar safety data and an assessment by an expert panel is recommended. FDA review of the GRAS panel findings is necessary for listing in the AAFCO original publication as GRAS. Finally, we will discuss the GRAS self-determined pathway. This does not require FDA review but entails state-by-state registration of products. This pathway will still require safety, analytical and efficacy data to support the product registration with each state.
93 Animal Based Ingredients in Diets for Captive Exotic Animals
Authors: Morris Cheryl L
Published: November 2023

Animal managers in zoological facilities are faced with unique challenges when feeding large collections of species. Few nutrient requirements of exotic species are known or established; therefore, diet formulation is a series of scientific extrapolations, mingled with an understanding of natural history of individual species. Goals of nutrition programs in zoos also include supporting behavioral diversity. This leads to the use of a wide variety of animal-based ingredients within zoo nutrition programs to support species across multiple taxa inclusive of amphibians, reptiles, avians, mammals and fish. Commonly used rendered protein ingredients such as fish meal and other meat meals are commonly used in extruded and processed diets developed for exotic species. For example, a commercially marketed extruded diet designed for cranes includes fish meal, porcine meat and bone meal and dried whey. An extruded diet for small exotic felids includes chicken meal, poultry by-product meal and fish meal. While these are commonly accepted animal-based ingredients across different animal industries, other animal protein ingredients are well-accepted in zoos and yet fail to reach general acceptance in other industries including pet food. Some of these common animal-based ingredients used in various zoo diets include insects, whole prey (rodents), raw meat (inclusive of horse and pork) and raw organ meats. These ingredients are often met with reluctance, misunderstanding, or dated information when applied to other animal industries. One example of dated information is the fear of using raw pork in relation to the risk of trichinella. The zoo nutrition industry may provide benefit to other animal industries when exploring opportunities to safely utilize and include novel animal-based ingredients in diet formulations.
95 Nutritional Ecology of Arthropod Predator-Prey Interactions
Authors: Wilder Shawn , Barnes Cody
Published: November 2023

Arthropods can provide a valuable source of protein for many vertebrate and invertebrate consumers. Yet, not all protein in an arthropod may be equally digestible to consumers. Arthropods are defined by their exoskeleton, which is a mixture of chitin and protein that is largely indigestible to most consumers. I will discuss how exoskeleton complicates the measure of arthropod protein content for insectivores. Arthropod taxa vary widely in exoskeleton content from about 10 to 40 % of their dry mass. Exoskeleton also varies in amino acid content from about 6 to 70 % of its dry mass. When spiders feed on arthropods, they extract nearly all of the soft tissue and leave behind the exoskeleton as prey remains. This complicates the measurement of digestible protein content of arthropod prey as one of the most common methods, crude protein, does not distinguish between exoskeleton and soft tissue. Instead, our results show that some spectrophotometric methods are more accurate measures of digestible protein in arthropods, especially if solvents like NaOH are used to prepare samples. Finally, proteins are an important source of nitrogen for insectivores. Using feeding experiments, we showed that measures of digestible (i.e., non-exoskeleton) nitrogen content of arthropods are a more accurate measure of what a spider consumes than is the whole nitrogen content of an arthropod body. Hence, while exoskeleton complicates the measure of arthropod protein content, there are ways to correct for exoskeleton to get more accurate measures of the quality of arthropods as prey for insectivores.
16 Evolutionary-Based Neurochemical Intersections of Microbiology and Neurobiology in the Gut Matter to Infection, Behavior and Nutrition
Authors: Lyte Mark
Published: November 2023

The gut contains a highly dynamic environment where elements of the neurophysiological, microbiological, and immunological systems interact, and which nutrition has an impact on those interactions. In endeavoring to understand the mechanisms governing such complex interactions an approach has been utilized that employs a common evolutionary-based language that unites all the systems. That common uniting element is a shared, evolutionary-based neurochemistry. Neurochemicals, which are ubiquitous throughout nature, first evolved in bacteria and ultimately through lateral gene transfer to animals as well as being found throughout the plant kingdom. Crucially, these neurochemicals, which share the exact same structure and often identical synthetic pathways, serve as a shared language between bacteria, plant and animal thereby forming the basis of the theory of microbial endocrinology. Critically, this approach is highly tractable allowing it to be employed as a mechanistic-based platform to devise new strategies to improve animal health including mitigating the effects of stress on the development of infectious disease. This talk will discuss the various aspects of animal health and well-being that may be influenced by microbial endocrinology-based mechanisms and ways in which it may be used to improve animal health and behavior.
416 Urgency to Address Infrastructure in Animal sciences–A Preliminary Report
Authors: Mulvaney Don R , Corbitt Katie , Randel Lowell , Cammack Kristi M , Cross Russell , Davis Ellen , Davis Teresa A , Gambino Chris , Godfrey Robert , Murdoch Gordon K , Reynolds Larry P , Riggs Penny K , Tolleson Doug R , Swanson Janice , Wulster-Radcliffe Meghan , Archibeque Shawn L
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the ASAS Public Policy Committee (PPC) is to help ASAS shape public policy and public opinion on current issues affecting farms and companion animals. PPC sets goals to make federal agencies aware of the scientific expertise and resources available within ASAS that could be used to develop science-based federal policies affecting poultry and livestock production. Recent reports point to a poor state of agricultural facilities at public colleges of agriculture which puts research priorities related to adaptation to and mitigation of climate change, food safety, zoonotic disease preparedness, animal populations and their care, diet-health, nutrition, biosecurity, new biobased packaging, energy innovations, and advanced market analysis at risk (APLU, 2021). To ascertain input specific to the Animal Sciences (AS), an IRB approved ‘Survey About Infrastructure in Animal Sciences’ (#22-495) was offered by the PPC to department heads and faculty of Animal Science programs across the country. The survey instrument was constructed to allow open-ended responses as well as 5-point Likert scale questions regarding participants views about infrastructure (IF) and thereby learn what members closest to the animal sciences community perceive to be the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in our research infrastructure. Analysis of coded responses in the open-ended questions among varied disciplinary arenas within AS revealed ‘facilities’ as the largest Grand Challenge. About 98% of respondents affirmed sustainable food and animal production is a critical national asset in terms of economic growth and development and 98% indicated an overlooked maintenance of IF in AS undermines national food security. Additionally, 68% indicated the state of core labs, at least for AS programs are only average or below. All respondents (100%) agreed that without comprehensive investment in infrastructure within AS, the USA will continue to fall behind in competing with other countries in areas of research. Study results provided insight into potential consequences of deferred maintenance which should elevate awareness of urgency to address the deficiencies. Since IF needs included future workforce development and working environments, an eroded IF and consequences of deferred maintenance threatens the capacity of AS to pursue Grand Challenges in research and ability to create future workforce readiness of graduates from AS programs.
215 Optimizing the Standardized Ileal Digestible Lys-To-Net Energy Ratio for Nitrogen Utilization of Sows Throughout a 24-Day Lactation Period
Authors: Watzeck Maddy , Huber Lee-Anne
Published: November 2023

Fifty multiparous sows (average parity 3.7±0.9 and initial BW 245.6±32.5 kg) were used to evaluate the effects of dietary standardized ileal digestible (SID) Lys-to-net energy (NE) ratios on nitrogen utilization throughout a 24-day lactation period. Sows were randomly assigned to one of five isoenergetic feeding programs that provided equally spaced and increasing Lys-to-NE ratios between 2.79 and 5.50 g SID Lys/Mcal NE. The feeding programs were generated by blending the two extreme diets in varying proportions using a precision feeding system and were provided to sows immediately after farrowing (d1) and until weaning at d 24 ± 1. At farrowing, litters were standardized to 12 piglets. Three nitrogen balances were conducted from d 4 to 7±1 (NB1), 12 to 15 ± 1 (NB2), and 20 to 23 ± 1 (NB3) using total urine collection and fecal grab sampling. Contrast statements were used to determine linear and quadratic effects of increasing Lys-to-NE ratios. Linear (LBL) and quadratic (QBL) broken-line and polynomial quadratic (QPM) models were used to determine the optimum dietary Lys-to-NE ratios for N retention. The Bayesian information criterion was used to assess best fit. Feeding program did not influence sow ADFI (5.96 ± 0.19 kg/d), BW change (-5.4 ± 4.1 kg) or change in backfat thickness (-2.0 ± 1.1 mm) over the entire 24-d lactation period, but piglet ADG increased with dietary Lys-to-NE ratio (linear; P < 0.05). Sow N intake increased with dietary Lys-to-NE ratio in NB2 and NB3 (linear; P< 0.001). Nitrogen retention (N intake – N output in urine and feces) increased with dietary Lys-to-NE ratio in all NB (linear; P = 0.05, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001 for NB1 -to 3, respectively). The QPM showed an inflection point at 3.75 g Lys/Mcal NE during NB1 and the QBL model showed break points at 2.87 and 4.83 g Lys/Mcal NE in NB2 and NB3, respectively. Nitrogen retention in milk increased with dietary Lys-to-NE ratio only in NB1 (linear; P < 0.05) and the QPM showed inflection points at 4.31, 4.37, and 4.90 g Lys/Mcal NE for NB1-to-3, respectively. Maternal nitrogen retention (N intake – N output in urine, feces, and milk) decreased and then increased in NB1 (quadratic; P < 0.01) and increased in NB2 and NB3 (linear; P < 0.01) with dietary Lys-to-NE ratio. The QPM showed inflection points at 4.01 and 3.01 g Lys/Mcal NE for NB1 and NB2, respectively, and the QBL model showed a breakpoint at 4.83 g Lys/Mcal NE for NB3. To optimize N retention, feeding programs with a Lys-to-NE ratio between 3.75 and 4.31, 2.87 and 4.37, and 4.83 and 4.90 g SID Lys/Mcal NE should be considered during early, mid, and peak lactation, respectively. Therefore, precision feeding programs can be developed to match the ideal SID Lys-to-NE ratio more closely at different stages of lactation to improve sow performance and reduce nitrogen excretion to the environment.
216 Alternative Trace Mineral Supplementation Strategies for Beef Cattle
Authors: Wilcox Corissa , Larson Kathy A , Christensen David , Erickson Nathan , Waldner Cheryl , Lardner Herbert A
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated an injectable trace mineral (ITM) source containing Cu, Mn, Se, and Zn (Multimin90) administered to gestating beef cows receiving a free-choice 2:1 mineral supplementation. Two hundred and eight multiparous and primiparous cross-bred cows (BW = 621 kg ± 96.6 kg; avg. 4 yr. old) were randomly allotted into one of two treatments and received either i) ITM + inorganic, granular 2:1 trace mineral free-choice; or ii) inorganic, granular 2:1 trace mineral free-choice alone (CON). A cross-over design was used for the study and cows in year 2 (n = 202) were allocated to the other treatment group. The ITM was administered at 4 weeks pre-calving and 4 weeks pre-breeding. Body weight and body condition score (BCS) were evaluated at injection times and pregnancy diagnosis using a weigh scale and a 5-point BCS scale (Lowman et al., 1976). Mineral status was determined from blood serum mineral concentration at 4 weeks pre-calving, 4 weeks pre-breeding, and at pregnancy diagnosis. Cows grazed grass-legume pastures in the summer and had access to dugout and well water sources. Cows were managed as two groups during spring and while on summer pasture during a 63-day breeding season until weaning. Serum blood mineral concentrations at 4 weeks pre-calving, 4 weeks pre-breeding, and pregnancy diagnosis did not differ (P > 0.05) between treatment groups. Copper conetrations at pregnancy diagnosis tended (P = 0.09) to be greater for the ITM cows compared with CON cows. At 4 weeks pre-calving and pregnancy diagnosis, Cu and Mn concentrations were numerically greater in the ITM group compared with the CON group. There were no significant results (P > 0.05) for cow BW, BCS, and days pregnant. Over 2-yr, pregnancy rates were 93.6% and 88.6% for the ITM and CON cows, respectively. Calves born to ITM and CON cows did not differ (P > 0.05) for birth weight, Julian birth date, age at weaning, average daily gain, or adjusted 205 d wean weight. However, CON calves tended (P = 0.07) to be heavier at weaning. Study findings suggest that administering an ITM source to beef cows does not improve cow and calf performance, which suggests that more research in this area is required. Additionally, pregnancy rates in beef cattle may be improved with the use of an injectable trace mineral.
212 Genome-Wide Association Study Investigating the Genomic Components of Efficiency in Beef Cows
Authors: Radwell Laine T , Delver Justin J , Lardner Herbert A , Penner Greg B , Asai-Coakwell Mika
Published: November 2023

Efficiency of mature beef cows consuming high-forage diets is not comparable with standard definitions of beef cattle efficiency such as feed conversion or residual feed intake in the feedlot setting. This study aimed to conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify regions of the bovine genome associated with efficiency in mature beef cows. Ninety-eight black Angus cows were managed under extensive feeding programs over a two-year period. Using rump fat at calving, calving date, and calf weaning weight as a percentage of the body weight of the dam, a weighted percentile scoring system was used to rank efficiency. Eighty-three of the cows were retained for the GWAS. The 20 most and 20 least efficient cows (HD dataset, n=40) were genotyped with the Illumina BovineHD BeadChip (777,000 SNPs) while the remaining cows were genotyped with the Neogen GGP Bovine 100K chip (LD dataset, n = 43). The LD dataset was imputed to the HD SNP array density using Beagle5.4 (FULL dataset, n = 83). Three separate GWAS were conducted using GAPIT (version3). The first GWAS was performed on the HD dataset using a quantitative phenotype determined by the ranking system. The second GWAS was performed with the HD dataset using a qualitative phenotype (efficient vs non-efficient cows). For the final GWAS, the FULL dataset with ranked phenotypes was used. Five models were evaluated for each GWAS, including the general linear model (GLM), mixed linear model (MLM), multiple loci mixed model (MLMM), fixed and random model circulating probability unification (FarmCPU), and Bayesian-information and linkage-disequilibrium iteratively nested keyway (BLINK). The model that best represented each dataset as determined by quantile-quantile plots was used for downstream analysis. Although results of the GWAS were not significant (Bonferroni threshold), associations were identified on BTA10, 16, 17, 25, 27 and 29. Positional candidate genes in the associated regions include: FOXN3, UPB1, SNX29, DDX54, LOC112444612, RITA1, and TACC1. Further functional analyses are required to confirm these findings; however, this work provides a foundation for identifying genes and gene mutations influencing this newly described phenotype.
209 Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes and Mobile Genetic Elements in the Swine Gut Microbiome
Authors: McCullough Taylor M , Farzan Vahab , Surette Michael , Cicek Nazim , Derakhshani Hooman
Published: November 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing threats to public health. It contributes to over a million deaths a year currently and by 2050 it is expected to cause more annual death than cancer. The swine industry has taken important steps to address the AMR crisis by phasing out the use of antimicrobial growth promoters. Nonetheless, the use of antimicrobials for controlling infectious diseases on swine farms remains high, particularly during the nursery stage of pig production. This has raised concerns about the potential role of the swine industry in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) capable of conferring resistance to medically important antimicrobials. While traditionally ARGs have been studied in the context of pathogens, there is growing evidence that the natural microbiome of humans and animals can also serve as a significant reservoir of ARGs. Of particular importance is the association of ARGs with different classes of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) which can facilitate the horizontal transfer of genes among commensal bacteria and pathogens. In this study, we evaluated the diversity and distribution of ARGs and their associated MGEs in the swine gut microbiome. To achieve this, we isolated and sequenced the whole genomes of 130 unique bacterial isolates from stool, digesta, and mucosa of healthy adult sows and their piglets. Screening of genomes for the presence of ARGs was performed using the Resistance Gene Identifier (RGI) and Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD), resulting in the identification of 323 ARGs across 117 genomes. Among these, genes predicted to confer resistance against tetracycline, lincosamide, beta-lactams, and fluoroquinolone were the most prevalent across all genomes. Importantly, we observed that several strictly anaerobic species belonging to gut-specific lineages including Lachnospiraceae, Megasphaeraceae, and Desulfovibrionaceae contained large ARGs pools spanning more than five different classes of antimicrobials. Further, we screened the flanking regions of ARGs for the presence of signature genes of MGEs including recombinases, phage integrases and capsids, and type IV secretion system. A total of 60 ARGs were identified to be associated with different classes of MGEs, including integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs; n = 30), bacteriophages (n = 8), integrative mobile elements (IMEs; n = 6), and plasmids (n = 3). Overall, our study highlights that ARGs, including those conferring resistance to medically important antimicrobials, are prevalent across different lineages of the swine gut microbiota. The association of the identified ARGs with MGEs warrants further in vitro experiments to evaluate the risk of transmission of resistance to zoonotic pathogens capable of infecting humans and animals.
214 Effects of Fiber Concentration and Fermentation Rate on Reproductive Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, and Immune Response of Lactating Sows
Authors: Wang Tao , Langendijk Pieter , Camats Lluís Fabà , Mcknight Leslie L , Pinar Arantxa Asun , Cai Zhen , Yang Chengbo
Published: November 2023

High fiber diets are known to have many benefits to sows (e.g., improving reproductive performance such as vitality of piglets, stimulating gut health, and improving well-being), and due to their fermentation properties, they may have different functions in lactating sows. Fast fermentable fiber favors the growth of beneficial microbiota which contributes to improved gut health, and slow fermentable fiber increases the fecal mass and provides a delayed release of some nutrients which benefits the farrowing process of sows. On the other hand, high fiber diets may reduce feed intake and nutrient digestibility. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary fiber concentration and fermentation rate on lactating sow performance, nutrient digestibility, and immunity. Four diets were formulated with increasing fast fermentable fiber, with diets 1 and 2 formulated at low (15%) total dietary fiber (TDF) and diets 3 and 4 at high (25%) TDF. The proportion of fast fermentable fiber in total diet of 4 treatments were 1.25%, 2.5%, 3.75%, and 5% respectively. The main fiber sources were sugar beet pulp, oat hull, and barley. Digestible energy, crude protein, and lysine levels were comparable among each treatment group. A total of 136 lactating sows (Landrace × Large White) were blocked by parity, body weight (BW), and back fat (BF), and then randomly assigned to each block (8 blocks). Feed allowance was set to increase from 3 kg/d (primiparous) or 3.5 kg/d (multiparous) at farrowing to a maximum of 7 kg/d or 8 kg/d at 7d or 8d post farrowing. Results showed that sows in high fiber groups had an increased litter weight gain and BF loss (P < 0.05), and sows in fast fiber groups showed a decreased BW and protein loss (P < 0.05). Low fiber fed sows showed a significantly increased digestibility of protein, gross energy (GE), and dry matter compared with high fiber ones (P < 0.05). Sows fed with slow fermentable fiber in the low fiber groups showed greater digestibility of GE, protein, and dry matter compared with the ones fed with fast fermentable fiber; however, the opposite was true in high fiber groups. Fiber concentration and fermentation rate did not show significant effects on serum IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, or endotoxin of sows (P > 0.05). In conclusion, high fiber diet increased BF loss and negatively influenced nutrient digestibility while having positive effects on litter growth. The negative effects of fiber were partially compensated by increasing the soluble fraction. Based on the current study, when feeding lactating sows a diet with high fiber, a relative increase of fast fermentable fiber is the most favorable feeding strategy.
224 Effects of Feeding Hybrid Rye Grain as a Replacement for Barley Grain on Feed Intake, Ruminal Fermentation, and Site of Nutrient Digestion for Finishing Beef Cattle
Authors: Zhang Fuquan , Brattain Rebecca S , Carey Rachel E , Wehrle Herman , Penner Greg B
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of increasing hybrid rye as a replacement for barley grain on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, and site of nutrient digestion in finishing cattle. Eight ruminally and duodenally cannulated Hereford-cross heifers (starting body weight = 514 ± 25.3 kg) were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with 21-d periods including 15 d of dietary adaptation and 6 d of sample collection. Dietary treatments included a control diet with 10.0% hay, 85.2% barley grain, and 4.8% of a vitamin and mineral supplement on a dry matter (DM) basis. Hybrid rye grain replaced 33, 67, or 100% of the barley grain. Both cereal grains were dry rolled to 80% processing index. Feed, refusals, ruminal fluid, duodenal digesta, and fecal samples were collected. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). Increasing hybrid rye inclusion tended (P = 0.052) to linearly decrease DM intake. Additionally, increasing hybrid rye grain linearly decreased mean and minimum ruminal pH (P < 0.01) and increased the duration (P < 0.01) and area (P = 0.01) that pH was less than 5.5. There was no effect of hybrid rye inclusion on total short chain fatty acid, lactic acid concentrations, or osmolality. Likewise, the molar proportion of acetate and butyrate were not affected by hybrid rye inclusion. Propionate tended to linearly increase with increasing hybrid rye inclusion (P = 0.08). Increasing hybrid rye linearly increased NH3-N concentration (P = 0.03). Ruminal organic matter (OM) digestibility tended to linearly increase (P = 0.08) and ash-free neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom) digestibility linearly increased (P < 0.01) when increasing hybrid rye. There was no effect on ruminal starch digestibility (71.1 ± 5.12%). Intestinal digestibility of CP linearly decreased (P = 0.050), but there were no effects for other nutrients. Increasing hybrid rye linearly increased apparent total-tract DM, OM, and aNDFom digestibility (P < 0.05) but did not affect starch digestibility (97.4 ± 0.42%). Increasing the inclusion rate of hybrid rye grain at the expense of barley grain in finishing diets may decrease DMI and increase risk for ruminal acidosis; however, hybrid rye inclusion did not influence the site or extent of starch digestion and increased total tract digestibility of DM, OM, and aNDFom.
66 Emerging Precision Ranching Technology Is Enabling the Development of a “smart” Biome
Authors: Church John S , Bork Edward
Published: November 2023

Precision ranching technology is revolutionizing remote data collection from livestock and the land base they depend on, greatly improving our ability to assess the entire biome. Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS or drone) based remote sensing to date has been used primarily to assess intensive cropping; but RPAS systems equipped with interchangeable cameras: high-resolution visual, thermal, LiDAR, and multi/hyperspectral imagers are now being deployed on rangelands, to monitor subtle changes in the visible, near infrared and infrared spectrums (radiation) that both plants and animals reflect. A single RPAS system can now be used simultaneously for high-quality vegetation mapping and behavioral analysis of animals, providing a suite of comprehensive data-collection tools for studying livestock in a variety of landscapes and rugged terrain. For example, we have used RPAS systems to measure behavioral and physiological indicators of cattle heat stress in feedlots and on pasture (Mufford et al., 2021). These same drones can be utilized for RPAS collection of high-resolution imagery (using multi/hyperspectral imagers and LiDAR) for vegetative and topographical mapping, greatly improving our ability to visualize and characterize habitat attributes such as forage availability, quality (stage of growth) and accessibility. Equipping cattle with new tracking technology, including "smart" GPS ear tags, rumen boluses, and wireless fencing collars (based on low-earth orbit satellites and cellular networks) enable animals to be readily identified and tracked on the landscape, while providing invaluable physiological data, such as internal body temperature to monitor estrous, heat stress, or the onset of disease (Figure 1). Additionally, rapid advances in wireless fencing systems have the potential to improve livestock management through autonomous mustering or the implementation of advanced rotational grazing for use in regenerative agriculture efforts. Wireless fencing may decrease production (infrastructure) costs, while also providing a strategy to better align forage demands with use, and thereby enhance pasture condition at the habitat and landscape level. Finally, non-invasive pasture weighing systems, enabled with or without RPAS technologies, are capable of monitoring key livestock production metrics year-round. Together, these technological advances enabled by this new "smart biome" will improve animal health and welfare while ultimately enhancing the sustainability of extensive livestock production systems.
83 Eating and Nutritional Quality of Meats from Water Buffalo Versus Cattle. a Review
Authors: Huerta-Leidenz Nelson O
Published: November 2023

Worldwide, water buffalo [Bubalis bubalis (Buffalo)] is commonly raised as a dual-purpose animal (intentionally for dairy production because their meat quality has been generally perceived as poor). Breeding for milk production, hunting, exhibition, or novelty ownership has been the primary use of Buffalo in United States and Canada. A scientific review was conducted to examine the effect of species (Buffalo vs. cattle) on meat sensory and nutritional quality. Compilation of this type of comparative studies is a necessary exercise to inform all segments of the meat value chain, particularly, final consumers. According to a bibliometric analysis it can be estimated that in the last twenty years the Web of Science database has recorded over 500 publications about Buffalo breeding. Unfortunately, the vast majority of studies comparing quality- or chemical-related trails between these bovid species did not plan adequately in the experimental design to raise or fatten them under the same environmental conditions and (or) made comparisons at a given (fair) endpoint [e.g.., same average age or body weight). Furthermore, most literature reviews on the topic made inferences by making use of observational studies and (or) tabulated findings of different researchers that did not include both species in the same experiment or did not use exclusion criteria to minimize the bias of the interspecific alleged contrasts. This presentation will discuss results from selected controlled experiments reporting quality and nutrient composition of meats from cattle vs. Buffalo. Very few controlled studies could be retrieved on comparison of meat quality (n = 13) and nutrient composition (n = 8) between Buffalo versus indicine (Bos indicus) or European (Bos taurus) cattle. Results from four out of thirteen comparative studies reporting sensory and (or) textural quality traits favored beef; however, three of these experiments only considered textural variables; one of them only included 16 animals older than 50 months of age whereas in the second companion study one half of the experimental group (n = 8) consisted on animals aged 48 to 54 months. According to the survey on proximal/nutrient composition there are minor differences between meats from both species. The results presented herein reveal the potential of young buffaloes to produce comparable or higher-quality meat than cattle counterparts, even under free-range conditions.
81 Meat Options for Dinner: the Road Less Travelled (Bison edition)
Authors: Galbraith Jayson
Published: November 2023

Consumers expect selection in almost every category of purchase including protein from meat sources. There are a variety of meats consumed worldwide with sustained marketing efforts for many species. This presentation will serve as an introduction to the topic of meat proteins from novel species, consumption trends and importance of understanding characteristics of specific meats. Bison, goat, ostrich, elk, deer, yak, water buffalo, horse, donkey, rabbit, wild boar, deer, alligator and llama are all consumed in various quantities in different parts of the world. Understanding reasons for meat selection and the many factors that can impact meat quality can help align production and marketing decisions for optimal consumer satisfaction. Animal genetics, feed, pre-slaughter handling and transport, proper stunning, carcass chilling, cold chain continuity and preparation of the meat can all influence the end eating experience. Research into meat characteristics of various species supports marketing efforts and puts integrity on nutritional claims. An example of this is bison meat marketing which promotes a lean, healthy meat raised on sustainable production systems in Canada and the USA with a rich history behind it. Nutritional analysis of bison meat and production research helps support these claims. Investigation into characteristics of meat from several species throughout the world could broaden opportunities for successfully marketing them as niche products.
228 Food for Thought: How Influenceable Is the Next Generation Consumer
Authors: Hiltbrand Karen A , Corbitt Katie , Coursen Madison , Martin David , Mullenix Kimberly , Ross Derek , Youngblood Ed , Smith Brandon B , Mulvaney Donald
Published: November 2023

Spread of misinformation and disinformation in animal agriculture is rampant in social media and then add the theory of social contagion, and the reach of this information and its impact on social licensure becomes extensive. A research study evaluated susceptibility of young consumers to be affected by false information pertaining to the beef industry found in segments of YouTube videos as well as their level of pre-study food industry knowledge as determined by a Food Familiarity Index (FFI) score. This mixed-methods study included a total of 15 next generation consumers who viewed two different YouTube video clips about agriculture, one being categorized as misinformation and one communicating accurate, research-based information. Level of trust among participants was then gauged using the continuous response measurement (CRM) instrument to identify critical moments of trust and distrust which can be found in the included figures as well as to then to craft participant narrative about perceptions of the beef industry enabled by responses from the focus group. It was found that those who have less knowledge about the food industry are much more vulnerable (P < 0.05) to being misinformed and are more apt (P < 0.05) to be influenced by misinformation Figure 1 and 2). Through engagement in thought-provoking discussion and analysis of what may have encouraged higher or lower levels of trust among the participants, this study contributes to a body of literature that may help communicators within animal agriculture to better understand positions and ability to share information about the agriculture industry to American consumers.
230 Opportunities for and Threats Against Animal Production in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: the Need for Animal Scientists to Have a Role in Informing Society
Authors: Gambino Chris , Buzzeo Maddie
Published: November 2023

Animal agriculture is critical to the economy and livelihoods in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Animal agriculture is directly impacted by feed production, weather, disease pressure, regulations, and trade. Few of these, if any, are easily predictable. Thus, thirty-five diverse stakeholders across the supply chain, including feed mills, producers, veterinarians, animal scientists, and policymakers, came together with twenty undergraduate students to scan how factors like political, economic, social, and technological issues impacted the current and future state of animal production in the Commonwealth. Stakeholders were grouped by sector resulting in seven groups (e.g., production, feed processors, meat processors, animal health, conservation, policy, and finance). Session One asked participants to answer, ‘How will the changing outside world affect animal agriculture in the Commonwealth?’ While Session Two asked participants to answer, ‘Does the Commonwealth have the people, practices, equipment, etc. to fight threats and seize opportunities?’ All groups reported their discussions of opportunities and threats. These points were captured and then coded by issue type (e.g., political or social). Across all groups (i.e., 100% of groups), the lack of agriculture literacy in the consumer base was identified as a major threat to animal production in the Commonwealth. Three of seven groups (43%) recognized the political and financial momentum for climate-smart agricultural research and practices as an opportunity for academia, industry, and farmer partnerships. Additionally, three of seven groups (43%) saw increasing markets and decreasing costs of alternative, cultured proteins as a threat to animal production. Groups were split on whether new agriculture technologies were an opportunity or a threat. Some saw new technologies as a threat given the aging farmer population in the Commonwealth, while others saw new technology as an opportunity for better resource use and combating labor shortages. Albeit being state-specific, when taken together these findings provide insight into national-level trends in opportunities and threats that the animal sciences can help to seize and combat. These findings highlight the importance of animal science exiting the benchtop, the farm, and the classroom to better engage consumers and decision-makers seeking information about animal agriculture.
415 Awardee Talk: Foraging for Collaboration: Beef-Forage System Strengths Unite Research and Extension Efforts in the Asas Southern Section
Authors: Mullenix Kimberly , Gadberry Shane , Rhinehart Justin D , Dillard S Leanne , Tucker Jennifer J J , Stewart Robert Lawton , Vendramini Joao , Poole Daniel H , Sanchez Nicole C Burdick , Mercadante Vitor R G , Bratcher Christy L , Welsh Thomas H , Arthington John , Poore Matthew H , Earnhardt-San Audrey L , Carrell Russell C , Justice S Maggie , Soffa Dallas R
Published: November 2023

The American Society of Animal Science Southern Section has a rich history of collaboration and hosts an annual professional development meeting for ASAS members. The Section meeting includes scientific presentations, academic quadrathlon, undergraduate and graduate student competitions, symposia, and networking opportunities for its members. The Section has used strategic collaborations to foster multi-state projects and initiatives. One of the key discipline focus areas of the Section is forage-based beef production systems. The Section holds two symposia focused on research, Extension, and industry topics related to beef cattle management. The Bill E. Kunkle Interdisciplinary Symposium was started in 2014 to honor the impact of Dr. Kunkle, University of Florida, and fosters multi-disciplinary communication of beef cattle science. The SERA 41 Symposium is part of the regional NIMSS project focus-group on improving production efficiency of the beef cow herd in the Southeast US. The NIMSS group works collectively to create partnerships and common goal-oriented projects across the Southern Section states. The section is also home to the Randel Physiology Lecture series which was formed in 2016 to highlight Dr. Ron Randel’s commitment to the Southern Section physiology section, and to promote high-quality science for the next generation of physiologists and endocrinologists. More than 25 peer-reviewed publications and several webinars have resulted from these symposia and invited lectureships. This creates a referenceable resource for scientists on emerging topics and identifies potential priority areas of focus for scientists within the Southern region. Another highlight of the Section is the collaborative work of the Extension committee. The Extension committee collaboratively fosters Extension program development across the Southern region. The committee developed a regional webinar series in 2015 for regional training of Extension agents on livestock and forage management topics. Subsequent in-service training courses have emerged through both virtual and in-person delivery. Training is primarily focused on forage-based livestock management systems. Through these opportunities, the Southern Section has remained a gathering point for professional engagement and should continue to evolve to meet the needs of animal scientists.