bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
307 Use of defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) as an alternative and functional ingredient in canine nutrition
Authors: Mioto Julio , Oba Patrícia M , Madison Sean , Adolphe Jennifer , de Godoy Maria R C
Published: September 2024

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (BSFLM) is an alternative, sustainable, and nutrient-rich ingredient for pet foods. However, limited information is available on optimal inclusion levels and its functional properties. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of incremental levels of BSFLM (15% or 30%) as a partial or full substitute for chicken by-product meal (CM) in extruded diets. Three complete and balanced diets were formulated and extruded: Control, 15% BSFLM, and 30% BSFLM. The effects of the diets on nutrient digestibility, fecal metabolites and microbiota, and serum oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in adult dogs were examined. A complete randomized design was used with adult Beagles (n = 10/treatment). The experimental period lasted 70 d, consisting of a 14-d adaptation to the control diet followed by 56-d test period. Data were analyzed using SAS Proc Mixed 9.4 with P ≤ 0.05 significance. All diets were well-accepted by the dogs; food intake and fecal output were not affected (P > 0.05) by treatment. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter, crude protein, and fat did not differ among treatments, whereas ATTD of organic matter (81.2%) and total dietary fiber (18.9%) was less (P < 0.05) for dogs fed 30% BSFLM in contrast with the Control group (83.2% and 30.3%, respectively). Fecal concentrations of total short-chain fatty acids and total phenols were less (P < 0.05) for dogs fed 30% BSFLM relative to dogs fed Control. No treatment effect was observed for serum biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Fecal microbial diversity differed between Control and 30% BSFLM groups. Overall, extruded diets containing 15% or 30% were well-digested by dogs as demonstrated by similar ATTD coefficients compared with Control. Intrinsic presence of chitin in BSFLM, and other insect-derived ingredients, can behave like insoluble dietary fiber in a food matrix, which would explain the decreased ATTD for organic matter and total dietary fiber, as well as less fecal concentration of total short-chain fatty acids. The inclusion of 30% BSFLM may have decreased protein hindgut fermentation due to less fecal concentration of total phenols. Altogether, the inclusion of 15% BSFLM resulted in similar physiological responses in comparison with dogs fed the Control diet. Greater inclusion levels of BSFLM may impact ATTD, however, it also has the potential to modulate fecal metabolites and microbiota, without negatively affecting fecal microbial richness.
302 Microgreen and sprouted sorghum as ingredients in raw meat diets for healthy adult cats
Authors: Bailey Katelyn , Pezzali Julia Guazzelli , Cowan Jeremy , Aldrich Greg G
Published: September 2024

Germination has the potential to naturally enhance the nutritional value of grains, enabling its inclusion in raw diets without compromising their raw status. Germinated sorghum may offer additional value compared with other grains as a sustainable, gluten-free and non-genetically modified option. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating two forms of germinated sorghum, sprouted and microgreens, into raw diets on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of macronutrients and energy, and fecal characteristics of adult cats. Four complete and balanced raw diets were formulated based on a basal ration (70%), comprised of whole raw chicken, vitamins and minerals, with the addition of sorghum (30%) in four different forms: raw (SR), cooked (boiled; SC), sprouted (SS), and microgreens (SM). Diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonutritive; however, they were found to be slightly different in energy and protein content due to changes in nutrient composition during processing of the sorghum grain. Healthy adult shorthair cats [n = 11; 5.1 ± 1.0 kg, average body weight (BW)] were enrolled in an incomplete 4×4 Latin square design. Each experimental period consisted of a 5-d adaptation phase followed by a 5-d collection phase, during which total fecal collection and assessment of fecal score were performed. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with diet as fixed effect, and cat(square), square and period as random effects. One cat was removed from the study due to reasons unrelated to the treatments, while two cats refused to eat the SM diet. Cats fed the SM and SC diets exhibited less (P < 0.05) wet fecal output compared to those fed the SS and SR. Fecal score was affected by diet (P < 0.05), with loose stools (16.37%) observed in cats fed SS and both diarrhea (11.6%) and loose stools (20%) observed in those fed SR, which were absent in those fed the other treatments. Protein ATTD (average 90%) did not differ (P > 0.05) among dietary treatments. Dry matter, organic matter, and gross energy ATTD were 3 to 6% greater (P < 0.05) in cats fed the SC diet compared with those fed the other treatments; but digestibility coefficients remained within acceptable ranges (> 80%). Fat ATTD was affected P < 0.05) by diet, with cats fed SS having the greatest value and those fed the SC the least; however, the numerical differences (< 2%) were unlikely to have biological relevance. In conclusion, the inclusion of microgreen and sprouted sorghum at 30% in raw meat cat diets did not improve the ATTD of energy and macronutrients compared with when sorghum was added in its raw form. Nevertheless, microgreen sorghum led to an improvement in fecal quality in cats compared with when sorghum was provided in its raw form.
159 The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for companion animals
Authors: Alvarenga Isabella Corsato
Published: September 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid of the plant Cannabis sativa L. CBD is increasingly being explored as an alternative to conventional therapies to treat health disorders in dogs and cats. Mechanisms of action of CBD have been investigated mostly in rodents and in vitro and include interactions with cell receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ES). In companion animals, CBD is well tolerated at physiological doses. Some dog studies have found CBD to improve clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis, pruritus, and epilepsy. However, further studies are needed to conclude the therapeutic action of CBD for each of these conditions, as well as for decreasing anxiety and aggression in dogs and cats. In this presentation, we will summarize the available scientific evidence associated with the mechanisms of action of CBD as adjunct therapy for various health conditions, as well as its pharmacokinetics and tolerability in companion animals.
165 Characterizing protein quality with in vitro methodologies
Authors: Nosworthy Matthew
Published: September 2024

Nutritional assessment of the quality of a protein source is a complex process with different requirements depending on the jurisdiction being discussed. The Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) is a growth measurement required in Canada, whereas the United States uses the Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS), which requires the determination of the amino acid profile and digestibility of the protein source. Notably both PER and PDCAAS are in vivo methods, necessitating the use of animals for measurement of growth and protein digestibility. Understandably there is significant interest from both industry and consumers to reduce reliance on animal experimentation for content claims. It is notable that outside of North America there are multiple examples of in vitro protein quality assessment. In Europe protein content claims are based on whether the protein content contributes >12% of the total energy, and in Australia content claims begin at 5 g of protein per serving. As the use of in vitro techniques for protein quality assessment has not led to indices of protein malnutrition in Europe and Australia, should be possible to use in vitro techniques in methods such as PER and PDCAAS thereby removing the reliance on animal use for quality assessment in North America. This can be accomplished by using in vitro methods in the assessment of protein digestibility and relying on recent changes by Health Canada to allow for calculation of PER from PDCAAS values. This presentation will introduce how protein quality is calculated via PER/PDCAAS, and subsequently discuss modifications of these methods to incorporate in vitro techniques to generate values indicating their nutritional quality with positive correlations to in vivo data.
502 Cat and mouse: The effect of consuming four different diet formants (intact mice, raw, canned wet and kibble) on energy expended to consume a meal and immediately post-prandial in domestic cats
Authors: Gwynne Stephanie K , Boersma Kim , Bosch Guido , Beerda Bonne , Rankovic Alexandra , Seymour Dave J , Shoveller Anna K
Published: September 2024

Cats are obligate carnivores; however, we feed them a variety of different diet formats without a clear understanding of feeding behavior and metabolism among diet formats. Whole-prey or raw diets may mimic a more natural diet and require more energy to consume. However, there is currently a dearth of literature examining feline energy expenditure (EE) during the consumption of and immediate post-prandial period when fed different diet formats. The present study aimed to investigate differences in the energetics of adult cats consuming four different diet formats in isocaloric offerings: raw intact mice, commercial raw, canned wet, and kibble diets. Adult neutered male cats [n = 12; body weight (BW) = 4.82 ± 0.164 kg) were used in a 4 x 4 replicated Latin square design and adapted to consuming each diet format before the initiation of the study. Following a 2-d adaptation period, cats were fed 25% of their daily caloric requirement (50.77 ± 1.549 kcal) in indirect calorimetry chambers in which VO2 and VCO2 exchange were measured. Energy expenditure (kcal/BW0.67 kg) was calculated for the consumption period, 15 min immediately post-prandial and 2 h post-prandial. Respiratory gases were measured for one fasted reading, followed by the first feeding. During each feeding, measurements were taken during the consumption period and 15 min post-prandial. For the following 2 h, respiratory gases were measured every 25 min for an additional 4 measures of respiratory gases. All data were analyzed using a generalized linear mixed model considering the effects of treatment, time and their interaction as fixed, and the effects of cat and period as random. A spatial power covariance structure was used to model repeated measures. Significance was considered at P < 0.05 and Tukey’s post-hoc test was performed to separate means. Energy expenditure during consumption and 15 min post-prandial was similar among treatments, and EE for 15 min post-prandial was greater than EE during consumption (P < 0.001). During the 2 h post-prandial, EE for the mice diet was greater than the kibble and canned wet diets (P < 0.001), while EE for the raw diet was only greater than the kibble diet (P < 0.001). Energy expenditure was similar between the kibble and canned wet diets (P = 0.919) and between the mice and raw diets (P = 0.598). Among all treatments and time periods, the mouse diet had the greatest mean EE. An increase in EE during the feeding period and post-prandial could benefit sedentary indoor cats who may be in positive energy balance. Feeding cats a naturalistic diet, such as intact mice or a raw diet, may increase activity levels and EE, but the longer-term effects of these feeding formats on energy balance need to be explored.
500 Effect of different iron sources on growth performance, gut health, and microbiota in nursery pigs
Authors: Cai Zhen , Jin Shunshun , Gong Joshua , Diarra Moussa , Nyachoti C Martin , Jendza Joshua , Yang Chengbo
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the effect of different iron sources, including iron polysaccharide complexes (SQM iron) and ferrous sulfate (FS) on growth performance, gut health, pathogenic bacteria load, colon fecal microbiota, and fecal iron concentration in nursery pigs. Nursery pigs (n = 320, TN70 cross, Topigs Norsvin Canada) weaned at 21 ± 2 d were randomly assigned to four treatments arranged in 2 x 2 factorial, with the factors being sanitation conditions (clean vs. dirty) and iron sources (SQM iron vs. FS, each at 100 mg iron/kg) to give 8 pens (10 piglets per pen) per treatment. Pigs were fed their respective diets in two phases over a 28-d period. Fecal scores, body weight (BW) and feed intake were recorded weekly. Iron content, gene expression of butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase and bisulfite reductase, and pathogenic bacteria counts were determined in fresh fecal samples collected on d 0, d 14, and d 21. On d 28, one pig randomly selected from each pen was euthanized to sample colon digesta for microbiota analysis and jejunal tissue and serum for gut integrity and permeability analysis. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test except for raw 16s sRNA sequences, which were processed using QIIME2 and analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis test. Overall, from d 0 to14 SQM iron resulted in higher average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI; P < 0.05). SQM iron resulted in higher fecal iron at d 21 and improved fecal scores at d 27 (P < 0.05). SQM iron increased the relative abundance of fecal Campylobacter jejuni when comparing d 21 to d 0, and O157 E. Coli when comparing d 14 to d 0 (P < 0.05). Ferrous sulfate resulted in greater changes in relative abundance of butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase and bisulfate reductase than the SQM iron treatment under clean conditions when comparing d 21 to d 0 (P < 0.05). Dietary iron treatments did not significantly affect gastrointestinal integrity and permeability in jejunum and did not alter fecal microbiota composition on d 28. In conclusion, substituting 100 mg/kg added iron as FS with equal concentration of SQM iron improved ADG in the initial 2 wk and overall ADFI and promoted gut health indicators.
516 Effects of increasing hybrid rye silage as a replacement for barley silage for growing beef heifers
Authors: Zhang Fuquan , Brattain Rebecca S , Wehrle Herman , Baron Vern , Ribeiro Gabriel O , Penner Gregory
Published: September 2024

The objective of these studies was to evaluate effects of increasing hybrid rye silage (HRS; harvested at boot stage in Study 1 and soft-dough in Study 2) inclusion as a replacement for barley silage (BS; harvested at soft-dough stage) on dry matter intake (DMI), ruminal fermentation, and growth performance of growing beef cattle. In Study 1, ruminally cannulated Hereford × Simmental heifers (n = 8) with an initial body weight (BW) of 519 ± 25.8 kg were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 28-d periods including 21 d of dietary adaptation and 7 d of data and sample collection to assess DMI and ruminal fermentation. Treatments included a control diet (DM basis) that contained 59.62% BS, 38.60% barley grain, and 1.78% of a vitamin and mineral supplement. Hybrid rye silage replaced 33, 67, and 100% of the BS on a DM basis. In Study 2, steers (n = 384; BW = 343 ± 20.2 kg) were stratified by BW and allocated to 32 pens in a randomized complete block design over 2 yr (4 pens/treatment/yr) to evaluate DMI, growth, and gain:feed (G:F). Steers were fed similar diets as Study 1 for 84 d in both years. In Study 1, increasing HRS linearly (P < 0.01) decreased DMI from 12.0 to 9.2 kg/d, and linearly increased (P = 0.02) water intake from 18.6 to 22.5 L/d. Increasing HRS linearly increased mean (P < 0.01) and minimum ruminal pH (P < 0.01). There was no effect of HRS inclusion on total short-chain fatty acid concentration (P = 0.46) in ruminal fluid, but the molar proportion of acetate linearly (P < 0.01) increased while propionate and butyrate linearly decreased (P < 0.01, and < 0.01, respectively) with increasing HRS inclusion. Moreover, increasing HRS inclusion linearly increased the molar proportions of isobutyrate and valerate (P = 0.06, and < 0.01, respectively) while caproate decreased linearly (P = 0.02). The ammonia-N concentration linearly increased with increasing HRS inclusion. In Study 2, DMI was 9.23, 9.10, 8.82, 8.08 kg/d (quadratic, P = 0.02) for diets containing 0, 33, 67, and 100% HRS, respectively. Likewise, ADG decreased (1.45, 1.36, 1.30, 1.08 kg/d; quadratic P < 0.01) as HRS inclusion increased and G:F ratio decreased linearly (P < 0.01) from 0.158 with 0% HRS to 0.134 g/kg when diets contained 100% HRS. Final BW was 462, 456, 450, and 432 kg when HRS was included at 0, 33, 67, and 100% of the silage, respectively (quadratic, P = 0.04). In conclusion, replacing BS with increasing proportions of HRS reduced DMI resulting in greater ruminal pH, altered molar proportions of individual SCFA, and reduced growth performance and G:F during the growing phase.
517 The effects of pellet starch concentration and allocation amount for Holstein cows in peak, mid, and late lactation in an automatic milking system
Authors: Dondé Sophia Cattleya , Schwank Anna J , DeVries Trevor , da Silva Renan C , Penner Gregory
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the effects of pellet starch concentration and amount of pellet delivered in an automated milking system (AMS) on AMS pellet and partial mixed ration (PMR) intake, milk and milk component yield, and milking and feeding behavior for Holstein cows at different stages of lactation. Twenty-four Holstein cows at peak [n = 8; 85 ± 25.7 days in milk (DIM)], mid (n = 8; 185 ± 35.1 DIM) or late (n = 8; 290 ± 69.5 DIM) lactation (3 squares/DIM category), housed in a free-stall barn with a feed-first guided traffic flow AMS, were used. Treatments included low (LS; 24% DM) or high (HS; 34% DM) starch pellets that were provided at low (LA; 2 kg/d DM) or high (HA; 6 kg/d DM) quantities within replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design. Each period lasted 21 d including 16 d of adaptation and 5 d of data and sample collection to evaluate feed intake and behavior, milking characteristics, milk and milk component yields. Pellet starch did not affect the amount of pellet consumed, but HA cows consumed more pellet than LA (4.3 vs. 1.8 kg/d; P < 0.01). Relative to LA, HA had greater pellet refused in the AMS (P < 0.01) and decreased PMR intake (P = 0.04). Total DMI was 1.3 kg/d greater for HA than LA cows (P = 0.05). Pellet starch and DIM did not affect PMR intake or DMI. Neither pellet starch nor allocation affected the number of PMR meals; however, LA increased PMR eating time by 20 min/d (P < 0.01) and PMR meal length by 2 min/meal (P = 0.03). Milking frequency was not affected by pellet starch or DIM, but HA tended to increase total milking frequency (2.7 vs. 2.6 no/d; P = 0.06) over LA, with greater voluntary milkings (2.5 vs 2.3 no/d; P < 0.01). Milk yield/visit and milking duration were not affected by pellet starch or allocation. Milk yield was not affected by pellet starch, or the amount allocated averaging 43.2, 41.3 and 43.2 kg/d for peak, mid, and late lactation cows (P ≥ 0.19). Compared with LS, HS decreased milk fat concentration (4.1 vs 3.9%; P < 0.01) and providing the HA reduced milk fat concentration (4.1 vs 3.96%; P < 0.01) when compared with LA; however, neither pellet starch nor allocation affected fat yield, averaging 1.67 kg/d (P ≥ 0.15). True protein yield was not affected. Cows fed the LA had greater milk urea nitrogen (14.8 mg/dL) relative to HA (14.3 mg/dL; P = 0.03). Increasing the amount of pellet allocated in the AMS reduced PMR intake, while increasing total DMI and resulted in greater amounts of pellet refusals by cows; however, greater amounts of pellet may increase attendance at the AMS without affecting milk or milk component yields. Starch concentration of the pellet had little effect on productivity.
510 Utilizing python programming for modern genetic evaluation systems
Authors: Lee Kristin , Ventura Ricardo V , Schenkel Flávio S , Cánovas Ángela , Vandervoort Gordon
Published: September 2024

Advancements in agricultural data collection and methodologies for data analysis offer opportunities for beef cattle producers to improve herd genetics. Genetic evaluation systems (GES) can benefit from modern programming approaches to keep up with these advancements. Python, a fast-developing programming language with scientific computing libraries such as NumPy and SciPy, offers flexibility that allows for quick adoption of superior algorithms and new data sources, as well as easy maintenance of the software over the long-term. This study evaluated the use of Python (v3.12.1) for developing a GES capable of executing all the necessary functions expected of modern implementation of GES. A simulated dataset was generated with the R package AlphaSimR to mimic characteristics of the Angus beef cattle breed. The dataset included pedigree information, phenotypic data, and true breeding values (TBVs) for each animal. Phenotypic traits included birth weight (BWT), weaning gain (WG), and post-weaning gain (PWG), with a total of 976,400 animals simulated across 15 generations. The GES software was developed in house, and included components such as data import, pedigree and data preprocessing, calculating inbreeding, constructing the inverse of the numerator relationship matrix, solver initialization, estimation of breeding value, and writing results. The genetic evaluation employed pedigree-based best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) and a multiple-trait animal model, using a preconditioned conjugate gradient iteration algorithm to solve the mixed model equations. Convergence was assessed using the residual vector norm divided by the right-hand-side norm, with a threshold to declare convergence set to 1x10-5. The software was run on a Linux server with an Intel(R) Xeon(R) Gold 6242 CPU @ 2.80GHz, 96 GB of RAM, and eight cores. Accuracy was measured using Pearson correlation coefficient between TBVs and estimated breeding values (EBVs). To benchmark computing time and solutions, the same dataset and model were input into a commonly used commercial GES, MiXBLUP (v3.0.1). The solver was the most time-consuming component of the GES, with a run time of 27 min. However, the application of multiprocessing reduced the run time by 72% to 8 min. The Pearson correlation coefficient between EBV and TBV was 0.86, 0.79, and 0.73 (P < 0.01) for BWT, WG, and PWG, respectively. In contrast, MiXBLUP completed breeding value prediction in less than 1 min. The Pearson correlation coefficient between Python and MiXBLUP predictions was 1.0 (P < 0.01). While Python is an ideal language for modern GES, further updates are necessary to optimize performance and operations. Future research will focus on refining computational algorithms, exploring parallel processing techniques, and enhancing user interfaces to ensure easy integration with industry practices.
515 Effects of Bacillus licheniformis HG76 on barrier function and inflammation in the intestinal epithelia cells and gut health of weaned piglets under enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli F4 infection
Authors: Xu Haoxiang , Gong Joshua , Yu Hai , Yang Chengbo
Published: September 2024

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F4 secretes enterotoxins and invades the small intestine, which damages the gut barrier function and stimulates the immune reactions characterized by inflammation. In the current study, the effects of B. licheniformis HG76 on gut health were evaluated with ETEC F4-induced IPEC-J2 cells and weaned piglets. The B. licheniformis HG76 was isolated from cecal contents of Rhode Island Red laying hens raised without using antibiotics. The results from the in vitro study showed that the ETEC F4 infection significantly induced IPEC-J2 cell death, and this effect was significantly attenuated by B. licheniformis HG76 treatment (P < 0.05). The gene expressions of zona occludens (ZO1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were significantly increased during ETEC F4 infection with B. licheniformis HG76 treatment (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the ETEC F4 infection significantly increased the mRNA abundance of toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4, and TLR5) (P < 0.05), but the B. licheniformis HG76 treatment alleviated this increase. For the in vivo study, 28 weaned piglets susceptible to ETEC F4 at 28 d of age were individually allotted to four experimental groups: NNC: unchallenged control group; NC: challenged control group; PC: antibiotic group (80 mg·kg-1 of avilamycin); and HG76: Bacillus group (1.0 × 109 CFU kg-1 diet of B. licheniformis HG76). The in vivo results showed during the post-challenge phase, ETEC F4 infection decreased average daily gain (ADG) and increased the severity of diarrhea at 44 h post-inoculum (hpi), respectively, in the NC group compared with the NNC group (P < 0.05). In addition, the infection decreased the villus height (VH) in the duodenum of pigs from the NC, PC and HG76 groups compared with the NNC group. The VH of jejunum and ileum in the pigs from the HG76 group were higher than other groups (P < 0.05). There was an increase (P < 0.05) of crypt depth (CD) in the jejunum and ileum of pigs from the HG76 group compared with those from the NNC group. The pigs in the NNC group had the greatest duodenal VH:CD ratio, but the least ileal VH:CD ratio among all the treatment groups. The Vmax value of sucrase in the HG76 group was greater than the NNC group (P < 0.05). When compared with the NC group, the relative mRNA abundance of interleukin 6 (IL6) was increased in the PC group (P < 0.05). In summary, these results suggest that B. licheniformis HG76 can protect the intestinal cells from ETEC F4 infection by inhibiting inflammation and maintaining barrier integrity, and the supplementation of B. licheniformis HG76 can improve the gut development and increase the digestive enzyme activity of ETEC F4 challenged piglets.
492 Effects of particle size and protease supplementation on amino acids digestibility in peas fed to growing pigs
Authors: Olivo Alicia , Lee Jinyoung , Patterson Rob , Nyachoti C Martin
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to determine the effects of particle size and protease supplementation on amino acid (AA) digestibility in peas fed to growing pigs. A total of 8 barrows (65.9 ± 5.0 kg initial body weight), each fitted with a T-cannula in the distal ileum, were allocated in an 8 × 7 incomplete Latin square design. Eight experimental diets were arranged in a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design, consisting of two varieties of field peas (Amarillo, Meadow peas), two particle sizes (400, 700 μm), and without or with protease supplementation (0, 250 g/ton). The Amarillo and Meadow peas were similar in crude protein (20.6 vs 21.3%). Field peas were included in the diets as the only source of AA, with a 96.1% inclusion rate. All diets contained 0.3% titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. A casein diet was used to estimate basal endogenous N and AA losses. The experiment was conducted for seven consecutive periods. Each experimental period lasted 7 d, including 5 d of adaptation and the last 2 d for ileal digesta collection from 0800 to 1700 h. Data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED of SAS. The statistical model included variety, enzyme, particle size, and their interaction as fixed effects, and replication, animal within replication, and period within replication as random effects. There was no 3-way interaction between variety, enzyme supplementation, and particle size on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of AA in diets. Moreover, there were no differences in AID and SID between different varieties of field peas except for Cys where AID (66.2 vs 63.4%) and SID (71.9 vs 69.0%) were greater (P < 0.05) in Amarillo peas than in Meadow peas. Similarly, no difference was found between the diets with and without enzyme supplementation except for AID of Pro (71.9 vs 75.4%), which was less (P < 0.05) when protease was included. Also, no effects of particle size were observed except for SID of Ala (80.0 vs 77.0%), which was greater as particle size was reduced to 400 μm. The average SID values for essential AA were Arg (88.3%), His (80.9%), Ile (77.7%), Leu (78.7%), Lys (83.9%), Met (75.8%), Phe (79.3%), Thr (72.9%) and Val (74.9%). In conclusion, the variety of field peas, enzyme supplementation, or particle size did not affect the AID and SID of the field peas, and no interaction was observed among the factors. Future studies will investigate dose-response relationships to determine whether the observed enzyme effect was due to inadequate ratios between enzyme and substrate.
491 Processing and stomach pH influenced in vitro gastric protein solubilization kinetics in sunflower meal
Authors: Njeri Felix M , Nu Mai Anh Ton , Schulze Hagen , Kiarie Elijah
Published: September 2024

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of processing and pH on gastric protein solubilization kinetics in sunflower meal (SFM) products using porcine digestion simulation model. The SFM samples were derived from diverse processing approaches: 1) dehulled-cold pressed (SFM_CP), 2) dehulled-solvent-extracted (SFM_SE), and 3) application of electrostatic separation technology on SFM_SE to generate high crude protein (CP) version (SFM_SEP). Soybean meal (SBM) was included for reference comparison (Table 1). Considering the complex factors influencing retention time, gastric pH, and pepsin secretion, the study employed multiple sampling times, and pH levels. A total of 500 mg CP equivalent of each sample (in triplicates) was mixed with 25 mL of 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 6.0) and 2 mL of pepsin (27 mg/mL). The pH was adjusted to either 1.5, 2.5, 3.5 or 4.5 using 1 M HCl and placed in incubator shaker (200 rpm) at 39°C. Samples were taken at 0, 30, 60, and 90 min, snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen, stored frozen, later thawed at 4°C, centrifuged (15,000 × g for 10 min) and supernatants analyzed for CP. The data were analyzed using Proc GLIMIXX in SAS while Gompertz equation was used to describe the gastric protein solubilization kinetics. The model included the fixed effects of protein source or processing, stomach pH and their interaction on the gastric CP solubility at 90 min and gastric protein solubility kinetics (A-maximum solubilized CP, Wo- initial CP solubility, Ku- solubilization rate, Ti- time to inflection). The analyzed CP SBM, SFM_CP, SFM_SE, and SFM_SEP, were 514.4, 524.4, 393.5, and 484.2 g/kg DM, respectively. Gastric CP solubility increased with lower pH and longer incubation time (P < 0.05), which corresponded well with the optimum pH of pepsin activity around 2. Compared with SFM, SBM had the least (P < 0.05) gastric CP solubility at pH 4.5 and 3.5, and the least predicted maximum gastric CP solubility (A) at pH 4.5, 3.5 and 2.5 (P < 0.05; Table 2). SFM_CP showed the greatest predicted initial gastric CP solubility at 0 h (Wo) and A (P < 0.05). Electrostatic fractionation of SFM_SE (SFM_SEP) enhanced gastric CP solubility at pH 3.5 and 2.5 and reduced the solubility time to inflection point (Ti; P < 0.05). In conclusion, data indicated that cold pressing SFM increased gastric CP solubility relative to solvent extraction. However, electrostatic fractionation of SFM_SE improved protein gastric solubility. While SBM remains a standard, incorporating the studied sunflower meals with their fast CP digestion kinetics in feed formulation could improve protein utilization in young animals with high stomach pH. In vivo studies, particularly on ileal amino acid digestibility, are crucial to validate these findings.

Sunflower meal tables_FMN.pdf
487 Rumen degradation, N-To-Energy Synchronization, and Intestinal digestion Study in dairy cows: Effect of oat varieties and types (feed type vs. milling type)
Authors: Deng Ganqi , Christensen David , Lardner H (Bart) A , Yu Peiqiang
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to determine the impact of four oat varieties and types (feed type vs. milling type) on the rumen degradation kinetics of nutrients, intestinal digestion of nutrients, and N to energy synchronization. Twelve samples [4 varieties (Arborg, Haymaker, Nasser, Summit) × 3 harvested years (2018, 2019, 2020)] were used for in situ rumen incubation analysis, three-step in vitro analysis, and available N to energy synchronization evaluations. The experiment design was RCBD design (oat varieties as a fixed effect and harvested year as a random block effect). Statistical analysis was performed by MIXED procedure model of SAS 9.4, and significance was declared at P < 0.05 and tendency at 0.05 ≤ P < 0.10. Results showed that Haymaker and Arborg oat had higher rate of degradation of degradable fractions (Kd) of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and starch than that of Nasser oat (P < 0.05). Nasser oat had greatest rumen bypass dry matter (BDM, g/kg DM), and rumen bypass feed starch (BST, g/kg DM) in these four varieties (P < 0.05) while the effective degradability of dry matter (EDDM, g/kg DM), effective degradability of feed crude protein (EDCP, g/kg DM), and effective degradability of feed starch (EDST, g/kg DM) of Nasser oat were least among varieties (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in BDM, EDDM, %BST, and EDST between milling oat and feed oat. For the intestinal nutrient digestibility, Summit oat had greatest intestinal digestibility of rumen bypass dry matter (%dBDM) among four varieties (P < 0.05), and the value of intestinal digestible rumen bypass dry matter (IDBDM, g/kg DM) of Summit was greatest in these varieties, which has greater IDBDM (g/kg DM) content than that of Nasser oat (P < 0.05). Nasser oat also had the least total digestible dry matter (TDDM, g/kg DM) in these varieties (P < 0.05). Summit oat had similar intestinal digestibility of rumen bypass protein (%dBCP) with Haymaker and Nasser oat but had greater %dBCP content than that of Arborg oat (P < 0.05). Nasser oat had greater intestinal digestible rumen bypass protein (%IDBCP, % of CP) in these four varieties (P < 0.05), while its value of total digestible protein (TDCP, g/kg DM) was the smallest and the TDCP content of Nasser oat was less than Haymaker oat (P < 0.05). Summit and Arborg oat had greater total digestible feed starch (TDST) than that of Nasser oat (P < 0.05). Significant differences were found on %dBDM, IDBDM, TDDM, and TDST between the feed type and milling type oat (P < 0.05). Haymaker oat had similar ratio of N to organic matter (OM) of the oat (N/OM) with Nasser oat but had greater N/OM content than that of Arborg and Summit oat (P < 0.05).
486 Evaluation of beef heifers fed four different diets when selected for divergent digestible fiber intake
Authors: Dubois Megan M , Penner Gregory , Lardner H (Bart) A , Abbott Wade , Gruninger Robert J , Ribeiro Gabriel O
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the factors which influence intake and fiber digestion efficiency of beef cattle previously selected for high or low digestible neutral detergent fiber (NDF) intake (DFI; g/kg BW0.75). Angus × Hereford cross heifers [n = 16; initial body weight (BW) = 584 ± 32.2 kg] previously classified as either high or low DFI when fed a high-forage diet (n = 8/treatment) were individually housed and fed one of 4 diets for ad libitum intake using a sequential offering of diets over four consecutive 28-d period. Diets included: 1) 100% grass hay; 2) 100% mature alfalfa hay; 3) 90% dry rolled barley + 10% alfalfa hay; and 4) 90% dry rolled barley + 10% grass hay (DM basis). Individual animal feed intake was recorded daily in addition to weekly BW. Rumen digesta samples were collected prior to feeding and 6 h after for 2 d within each period and analyzed for SCFA and NH3-N concentrations, and total rumen protozoa counts and identification. High DFI heifers had similar (P > 0.11) DMI compared with low DFI heifers in periods 1, 3, and 4, but had a tendency for greater DMI in period 2 and NDF intake during period 2 and 3 (7.84 vs. 7.07 kg, P = 0.07; 4.71 vs. 4.27 kg, P = 0.08; 2.56 vs. 2.28 kg, P = 0.10). ADG was greater for high DFI during the first two periods (0.61 vs. 0.13, P = 0.04; 0.44 vs. -0.09, P = 0.02); moreover, high DFI cattle finished the study with a heavier BW (708 vs. 661 kg, P = 0.04). Total SCFA concentrations before and 6 h after feeding did not differ (P ≥ 0.36) between treatments. NH3-N concentrations were not different before feeding during period 1, 3, and 4, but were greater for high DFI heifers during period 2 (9.85 vs. 8.39, P = 0.04). Additionally, there were no differences in NH3-N concentrations 6 h after feeding during any period. No differences were observed (P > 0.25) between treatment groups for total rumen protozoa counts for periods 1 and 2; however, there was a tendency for a greater proportion of Isotrichia before feeding during period 1 (3.67 vs. 2.41%, P = 0.07). In conclusion, differences in intake and the small changes in ruminal fermentation parameters only partially explain the differences in ADG observed between high and low DFI heifers.
482 Using growth implants in suckling beef calves enhanced vaccine response against Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis
Authors: Lasso-Ramirez Sergio David , da Silva Gleise Medeiros , Moya Diego , Lardner H (Bart) A , Londono-Mendez Maria Camila , Nielsen Kaitlyn , Tanchak Cabri
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to evaluate vaccine response, growth performance, and immunity of beef calves under different implant strategies. Crossbreed beef calves [n = 90; 39 ± 2.3 kg of body weight (BW) and 80 d of age] were stratified by birth BW and age and were randomly assigned (30 per treatment) to 1 of 3 treatments in a randomized complete block design: 1) implanted with 100 mg progesterone and 10 mg estradiol benzoate (Synovex C, SC, Zoetis Inc.), 2) implanted with 150 mg trenbolone acetate and 21 mg estradiol benzoate (Synovex One Grower, SG, Zoetis Inc.), or 3) no implant (CON). After treatment allocation (d 0) and until weaning (d 151 ± 13.4), all calves were raised alongside their dams and received the same vaccine protocol (Bovi-Shield Gold One Shot and Ultrabac 7) on d 0 and at weaning. Following weaning, calves were allocated to a single pen and received ad libitum total mixed ration until d 60 post-weaning. Body weight and blood samples were collected on d 0, 14, weaning, and on d 14 and 60 post-weaning. Plasma was analyzed for insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), cortisol, and β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), while serum and whole blood samples were analyzed for serum antibody titers and complete blood count, respectively. Activity budget was recorded for 5 d following weaning with an accelerometer device. A treatment effect (P = 0.01) was detected for serum infectious bovine rhinotracheitis titers, with serum titers being greater in SG than in CON and SC. The SC calves had greater IGF-1 (P = 0.03) compared with CON but not with SG. There was a treatment × day interaction (P = 0.01) for leukocytes where SC was greater than CON but not than SG on the weaning day. Haptoglobin was less (P = 0.02) in SG calves compared with SC and CON. A treatment × day interaction was detected for BHBA (P = 0.04), with SC having decreased concentrations on d 14 post-vaccines compared with SG and CON, while CON was less than SG but not than SC at weaning. Hematocrits were less in SG (P = 0.03) than in SC and CON. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in step count, lying and standing time. Average daily gain (ADG) from d 0 to weaning was greater (P < 0.01) in SG calves compared with CON, but not SC, and ADG from weaning to d 60 post-weaning was greater (P = 0.03) for both SC and SG compared with CON. Weaning weight was greater in SC and SG calves (P ≤ 0.01) and on d 14 and 60 post-weaning compared with CON. In summary, implanting suckling beef calves enhanced immune response and improved growth performance before and after weaning.
320 Ninety-nine years of accomplishment by Canadian Animal Scientists
Authors: McAllister Tim A , Penner Gregory
Published: September 2024

The earliest ancestor of the Canadian Journal of Animal Science traces back to the Western Canada Society of Agronomy which was established in 1918. The Western Canada Society of Animal Production was formed in 1925 and the Eastern Society was established in 1926. These were the first vestiges of the Canadian Society of Animal Production which arose as result of the amalgamation of the chapters in 1951. The Agricultural Institute of Canada established the journal “Scientific Agriculture” in 1921, which was renamed the Canadian Journal of Agricultural Science in 1953. In 1957, the journal was split into plant, soil and animal sections and the Canadian Journal of Animal Science (CJAS) became the official publication of the Canadian Society of Animal Science (CSAS). Selecting the top Canadian animal scientists over the last 99 yr is no easy task and is marked with biases and subjectivity. Time is a major consideration, as in general contributions become less visible with time, even though they may have formed the foundation of future advances. Expectations of society members has also evolved over time, with a focus on the establishment of animal husbandry practices and Canada’s livestock population from the 1920s to the 1960s, refinement in nutrition and animal breeding practices in the 1960s to the 1980s, developments in molecular biology and genomics in 1980s to the 2000s and in precision animal production, animal welfare and environmental sustainability from the 2000s to the present day. To identify the top scientists in Canada, the editors-in chief of CJAS sent out letters to every federal and university animal science department in Canada to nominate four individuals whose contributions were felt to be particularly noteworthy. This exercise clearly demonstrated that Canadian Animal Scientists have made significant contributions in all fields at a global level of recognition. This presentation will introduce you to a few of these individuals. There is no doubt that the contribution of all Canadian animal scientists has had a major role in the development and success of the Canadian livestock industry.
319 Reflections on the most cited paper in the ninety-nine-year history of Canadian Society of Animal Science
Authors: McAllister Tim A , Fenton Terry , Fenton Mira , Penner Gregory
Published: September 2024

Measurement of nutrient digestibility is a key pillar in estimating the value of feeds for livestock. Conditions are not always amendable to estimating feed digestibility through total collection methods, and as a result digestibility markers are frequently employed. The first “Digestibility markers” were reported in the early 1900s where colored glass beads were used to estimate the flow of digesta through the digestive tract. Subsequently, a myriad of digestibility markers has been assessed with the internal markers; acid insoluble ash, acid detergent lignin, indigestible neutral detergent fiber and n-alkanes and the external markers titanium dioxide and chromic oxide being the most common. Chromic oxide (Cr2O3) was first proposed as a digestibility maker in 1918 and continues to be widely used in modern day metabolism, confined performance and grazing livestock experiments. It was the demand to use chromic acid as a digestibility marker that led Terry and Mira Fenton to publish the article “An improved procedure for the determination of chromic oxide in feed and feces” in the Canadian Journal of Animal Science in 1979. This became the most cited article in the history of the journal with over 800 citations. The procedure eliminated the use of nitric acid in a pre-digestion step and ashing reduced the organic matter content, making it less likely that perchloric acid would be converted to anhydrous perchloric acid which poses an explosive hazard. The procedure continues to be widely used to measure Cr2O3 as a digestibility marker and has made a significant contribution to our assessment of the value of a wide range of feeds for Canadian livestock.
317 Microbial interventions to improve gut health in neonatal ruminants
Authors: Malmuthuge Nilusha , Guan Leluo
Published: September 2024

Colonization and establishment of a balanced and healthy gut microbiome during the neonatal period can directly and indirectly influence animals by affecting the development and metabolism, nutrition absorption, barrier and immune functions, and endocrine and neuron transmitter secretions. Therefore, neonatal period represents a crucial window of time in animal’s life that induces long-term developmental and immune memory. Therefore, alterations in the early gut microbial composition and colonization trajectories lead to long-term negative effects on animals’ production and health. While the rapidly developing gut microbial community is affected by various external factors due to its instability, it provides a great opportunity for microbial intervention to alter microbial colonization trajectories and their subsequent impact on gut health. Recent advance research has been successful in restoring altered gut microbial communities by using microbial interventions such as vaginal seeding, fecal microbial transplantation, probiotics, and prebiotics. However, there is a lack of understanding on the long-term effects of these interventions on gut health in neonatal ruminants. Direct fed microbes (live naturally existing microbes that can improve health and production performance) with psychobiotic function (a type of probiotic that affect cognitive and behavioral functions of the host via the gut-brain axis) can be one of the novel microbiome solutions to target and alter the microbiome dysbiosis. The use of direct fed microbes, postbiotics and psychobiotics and their potential implications in improving calf health and productivity leads to a novel solution to the manipulation of the gut microbiome in calves.
301 Leveraging genomics to advance the breeding of Canadian livestock
Authors: Leishman Emily M , Jahnel Ricarda E , Harlander Alexandra , Willems Owen W , Wood Benjamin , Barbut Shai , Schenkel Flávio S , Miglior Filippo , Gervais Rachel , Stothard Paul , Baes Christine F
Published: September 2024

Implementing breeding strategies for a more sustainable food system is one of the most pressing topics for livestock industries. Although different species face different challenges, large-scale research projects can pave the way for future opportunities in these key sectors. Herein, we present two examples (dairy and poultry) of how research projects can result in meaningful changes to commercial breeding programs. The first example is an international large-scale dairy project, which will deliver a roadmap for greenhouse gas (GHG) management using genomics and nutrition. The project aims to facilitate a 55% reduction in GHG emissions from Canadian dairy at an estimated value of $338M CAD. This systems-level approach will leverage resources developed through previous and current large-scale projects to produce accurate multi-level emission estimates and identify opportunities to mitigate enteric GHG emissions. The results of this project will provide accurate, reliable, and robust data for industry stakeholders, national policy, and GHG inventories. The second example is a research collaboration with a commercial turkey breeding company that will enable breeding strategies for long-term and sustainable genetic improvement in health traits. This project aims to reduce preslaughter mortality by 5% and condemnations due to myopathies and health issues. This reduction alone is expected to result in 7.5M kg more turkey meat at a value of $19.8M CAD. Furthermore, there is also an expected reduction of 2.3M kg of CO2 equivalent per year for each 1% livability improvement due to production efficiencies and reduced inputs wasted for more sustainable and ethical meat production. Overall, ongoing and future research initiatives will continue to deliver solutions for key Canadian livestock sectors to improve animal health and welfare as well as efficiency and sustainability. The strides made in these ongoing collaborative projects are imperative for enhancing the sustainability of animal agriculture to feed the growing population.