bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
114 Monitoring the impact of shade and housing on physiological response in finishing beef cattle during the summer months in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Hernandez Shane r , Sims William M , Stelzleni Alexander M , Davis Dylan B , De Menezes Luís Fernando Glasenapp , McKee Robert W , Stewart Lawton
Published: November 2020

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of heat stress on blood-gas parameters of beef steers finished with or without shade in the Southeastern United States. Thirty-two steers (BW 453kg +/-4 kg) were assigned to one of four treatment groups including: inside with fans (CWF), inside no fans (CNF), outside with shade (SHADE), and outside without shade (OUT). All animals were placed into their treatment on d-10 and were given 10 days to acclimate. Animals were fed individually and served as the experimental unit. Animals were weighed and arterial blood was collected on d-10, 0, and 50. Data were analyzed in a completely randomized designed utilizing a one-way ANOVA. Initial (d-10) pCO2 values were similar for all treatments (P >0.05). On d0, covered treatments (SHADE, CWF, and CNF) pCO2 values were greater than d-10 (P< 0.01), OUT values did not differ from d-10 to d0 (P = 0.95). The change in pCO2 values between d-10 to d0 values were similar for covered groups (P >0.14) and greater than OUT (P < 0.02). On d50 all treatment pCO2 values returned to baseline values (P = 0.50), and the change in pCO2 from d0 to d50 was greater for covered groups than the OUT group (P < 0.04) Initial d-10 pO2 values were similar for all treatments (P >0.05). On d0, covered treatments (SHADE, CWF, and CNF) pO2 values were less than d-10 (P < 0.01), OUT values did not differ from d-10 to d0 (P = 0.75). pCO2 values between d-10 to d0 were similar across all groups (P = 0.38). On d50 SHADE and CNF pO2 values were less than base line (P < 0.02). d50 pO2 values for OUT and CWF returned to baseline values (P >0.20). The change in O2 from d0 to d50 was similar across all groups (P = 0.84). These results suggest that there is a physiological difference between beef steers fed with cover versus beef steers outside.
189 What’s in a step? Evaluating the interrelationship between productivity and cattle behavior during a series of temperament tests
Authors: Daigle Courtney L , Hubbard Amanda J , Meneses Xandra , Grandin Temple
Published: November 2020

To better understand the relationships among productivity, behavior, and emotion, in the context of Panksepps’ emotional circuits (FEAR, RAGE, PANIC, SEEKING), Bos indicus influence yearling steer behavior (n = 32) was quantified during a series of temperament evaluations. Exit velocities (EV) and chute scores (CS) were recorded at weaning. Starting three months post-weaning, ADG was measured across a 28-d period prior to testing commencement. Pen Scores (PS) from all steers were taken at the end of the 28-d period. Steers were video recorded during an Open Field Test (OFT), an Individual Startle Test (IST), a Group Startle Test (GST), and during a Bovine Zero Maze (BZM) evaluations, and the number of steps performed during each test recorded. Steers experienced each test twice, in random order, across a 50 day period with a 5-day minimum washout period between tests. Repeatability (Pearson’s correlation; PROC CORR), validity (relative to ADG; PROC REG), and reliability (Chronbach’s alpha; PROC CORR) were evaluated for PS, EV, CS, and the number of steps performed in the OFT, IST, GST, and BZM. Correlations among ADG, PS, EV, and CS illustrated that as ADG increased, EV (FEAR; R = -0.41; P = 0.02) and PS (PANIC; R = -0.42; P = 0.02) decreased. No relationship was observed between ADG and CS (RAGE). A positive relationship (R = 0.45; P = 0.01) was observed between PS (PANIC) and EV (FEAR). No relationship was observed between CS (RAGE) and EV nor between CS (RAGE) and PS (PANIC). The data separated (PROC VARCLUS) into the three primary clusters (FEAR, RAGE, and PANIC/SEEKING). The number of steps in the GST (FEAR) clustered with ADG and EV (FEAR). The number of steps in the BZM (PANIC/SEEKING), OFT (PANIC/SEEKING), and IST (PANIC/SEEKING) clustered together. Chute score (RAGE) did not cluster with any of the other variables. A model was developed to illustrate these relationships. CS, PS, and EV may be straightforward approaches to evaluating multiple components of temperament.
(144) Rumen Fluid Metabolites as Potential Biomarkers of Feed Efficiency in Angus Steers
Authors: Clemmons Brooke A , Powers Joshua B , Campagna Shawn R , Ault Taylor B , Embree Mallory M , Meyer Phillip R
Published: November 2020

Beef cattle is the most consumed red meat in the United States, and the United States is the largest producer and consumer of beef cattle globally. Feed is one of the largest input costs for the beef cattle industry, accounting for 40–60% of the total input costs. Identifying methods for improving feed efficiency in beef cattle herds could result in decreased cost to both producers and consumers, as well as increased animal protein available for global consumption. Identification of feed efficiency biomarkers could aid in the selection of more feed-efficient animals. To identify potential biomarkers of feed efficiency, rumen fluid was collected from low- (n = 14) and high-RFI (n = 15) Angus steers based on RFI ± 0.5 SD around the mean following a 70d feed efficiency trial to determine rumen metabolites associated with variations in feed efficiency. Steers were 7 months of age, weighing 264±2.7 kg. Rumen fluid was collected via gastric tubing, filtered through a 0.22 µM syringe filter, extracted for metabolomic analysis using 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile:water:methanol (2:2:1), and injected into the Dionex UltiMate 3000 UHPLC system with an Exactive Plus Orbitrap MS. Peaks for known metabolites were identified using MAVEN and analyzed using MetaboAnalyst 4.0 and SAS. Significance was determined using an α ≤ 0.05. Based on fold change (high/low RFI), eight metabolites were greater in low-RFI steers compared to high-RFI steers, including 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate, 4-pyridoxate, citraconate, hypoxanthine, succinate/methylmalonate, thymine, uracil, and xylose (P ≤ 0.05), while 12 metabolites differed by ≥ 2-fold. These metabolites were predominantly involved in amino acid and lipid metabolism. Rumen fluid metabolomes differed in steers of varying feed efficiencies. These metabolites may be used as biomarkers of feed efficiency and may provide insight as to factors contributing to differences in feed efficiency that may be exploited to improve feed efficiency in beef cattle herds.
178 Use of silvopastures and woodlands to expand the grazing opportunity for small ruminants
Authors: Karki Uma
Published: November 2020

Pasture-based small-ruminant farming is a popular enterprise in the Southeast, especially for small and limited-resource producers. Although woodlands occupy a majority of the land cover in the South and can be a promising resource for raising small ruminants, not much attention has been given on using such resources. A series of studies were conducted at the facilities of Tuskegee University with the overall objective of exploring the potential of using silvopastures and woodlands for raising small ruminants. Grazing studies were conducted from 2015 to 2019 using meat goats and hair sheep in silvopastures and woodland plots. Silvopastures were developed by thinning down the existing woodlands and planting suitable cool- and warm-season forages. Grazing facilities were installed in the study plots and animals were rotationally stocked each year during both cool- and warm-season grazing periods. In 2017, non-pine plants in woodlands were cut to three different heights (ground level and 0.9 m and 1.5 m from the ground level) or left uncut (control) to see the effects on understory vegetation biomass production and utilization by small ruminants. Data on vegetation biomass and quality, canopy height, animal performance and behavior, browsing height, and vegetation preference were collected and analyzed. Small ruminants were found to utilize all planted forages (silvopastures) well and most of the understory plants in woodlands. Vegetation biomass in woodlands increased in areas where non-pine plants were cut versus the control (36–106%; P < 0.0001). Mature animals maintained a desirable body condition score (≥2.6) and FAMACHA score (≤2.6) in woodlands. However, young, growing animals showed a poor live weight gain, especially during some portion of the study. Animals performed well when they were stocked in silvopastures. Both species showed a similar preference for most plant species available in woodlands. Results show a tremendous potential of using silvopastures and woodlands for expanding the grazing opportunity for small ruminants. However, the provision of some supplements would be necessary while stocking young animals in woodlands.
196 Animal Nutrition: How are we serving our clientele through Extension?
Authors: Mullenix Kimberly , Gadberry Shane , Stewart Lawton
Published: November 2020

Nutritional management is a crucial component of animal production and enterprise economic sustainability. Nutritional value of feedstuffs and nutrient requirements of livestock are often misunderstood by producers and feedstuff providers. Extension specialists support the continuing education of the livestock industry by communicating nutritional research results to county agents and clientele. A survey of Extension specialists in the ASAS Southern Section was conducted to understand the current state of nutritional education strategies in the region. The goal was to identify: 1) specialist background knowledge, 2) industries specialists serve, and 3) processes, tools, and resources used to maximize nutritional efficiency. The survey was answered by 25 specialists from 13 states. Among the 13 states, 1 state has 5 or more specialists providing nutritional assistance, while 6 indicated only 1 or 2, and the average number of specialists was 2.8 per state. Of the specialists, 13% indicated their background was feedlot nutrition, 47% forages, and 40% both. Animal industries supported included 85% for beef cattle, 3.5% for sheep and goats, and the remainder for other species such as dairy and horses. Currently, 9 states offer forage/feed analysis, and in the states that do not offer the service, specialists indicated that commercial laboratories were utilized. More specialists indicated they may require a forage analysis (70%) compared to grain/byproduct feeds (55%) before providing recommendations. When formulating feed recommendations, specialists indicated that 33% were performed by hand and 67% by computer program. All states indicated that they perform at least 1 agent and (or) stakeholder training per year on ration balancing. Additionally, when asked to characterize the nutritional knowledge of agents, specialists indicated 16% were capable of handling most nutritional issues, 23% could handle some issues, 41% had minimal familiarity with animal nutrition, and 19% were considered focused on other areas. These results indicate specialist knowledge base and tools to understand feedstuffs are present in the region. Stakeholders may benefit by understanding information required for nutritional assessment and recommended changes to meet production goals. Additionally, there is potential to work across state lines to utilize expertise in specific areas.
158 The effect of sire fecal egg count estimated breeding value on antibody production of grazing Katahdin lambs
Authors: Bentley Kelsey , Weaver Andrew R , Burke Joan M , Morgan Jim , Wright Lee , Greiner Scott P , Bowdridge Scott A
Published: November 2020

Over the past two years of mating high (Hi) or low (Lo) fecal egg count (FEC) EBV Katahdin rams randomly mated to Katahdin ewes, reduced FEC in lambs has been the hallmark trait observable at weaning. Upon additional analysis, death loss in lambs also segregated with sire FEC EBV; whereas, HiFEC-sired lambs had a death loss of 29.9% in 2018 and 14.5% in 2019. Yet, LoFEC-sired lambs had a death loss of 10% in both years. Increased death loss in 2018 may have been due to an outbreak of Clostridium perfringens Type-A and as a result lambs in 2019 were vaccinated for Clostridium type A. Regardless, this had no impact on death loss in LoFEC-sired lambs. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that sire FEC EBV indirectly selects for enhanced, generalized immunity. To initially test this hypothesis, serum was collected from HiFEC- and LoFEC-sired lambs weekly, prior to and after typical clostridium toxoid vaccination and boostering. Lamb serum was pooled by week and within sire, where there were 4 sires per FEC EBV group. Serum was analyzed for total immunoglobulin-G (IgG) by using absorbance at 450nm as the metric. Data were analyzed by using the general linear model of SAS with fixed effects of sire EBV type and week. A comparison of means was conducted by using the LS means procedure with Bonferroni adjustment. Absorbance of serum from LoFEC-sired lambs was higher across all time points than that of serum from HiFEC-sired lambs (1.66 vs. 1.41 ± 0.04; P < 0.0001), meaning that LoFEC-sired lambs had higher circulating IgG than lambs sired by HiFEC rams. Taken together, these data provide preliminary evidence that indicate segregation of lamb generalized immunity by sire FEC EBV.
10 Behavior and Landscape-Use Pattern of Small Ruminants Co-grazed in Woodlands with different Vegetation Characteristics
Authors: Paneru Bidur , Karki Uma , Ellis Nevershi , Bhattrai shailes , Karki Lila B
Published: November 2020

Woodland is the major landcover in Alabama (69%) and other states of the Southeast (≈60%). The understory vegetation present in woodlands can be a great feed resource for small ruminants when woodland grazing is practiced well, for which the understanding of animals’ landscape-use pattern is important. The study objective was to determine the diurnal behavior and landscape-use pattern of Kiko wethers and Katahdin rams co-stocked in woodlands. Eight Kiko wethers (77±2.5 kg. LW) and five Katahdin rams (92±4.6 kg. LW) were co-stocked rotationally in three woodland plots (0.4-ha. each) during May–August 2019 in Atkins Agroforestry Research and Demonstration site, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama. Each study plot contained four treatments, where the average canopy height were 0.82 m, 1.34 m, 1.67 m and 1.73 m. The diurnal behavior (grazing, browsing, loafing, lying) and landscape-use pattern of animals were monitored from dawn to dusk when they were in each study plot at each rotation. Diurnal period was categorized into morning (dawn–11:00 am), midday (11:00 am–3:00 pm), and post-midday (3:00 pm–dusk) for the analysis and diurnal behavior and distribution pattern of animals were analyzed in SAS 9.4, GLM procedure with MANOVA option. Animal species differed in their feeding behavior (P < 0.0001), with wethers mostly browsing and rams grazing. Significant interaction effects of animal species and diurnal period occurred on all behavior categories, except loafing and lying (P < 0.0001). Wethers spent less time grazing (84–88%), but more time browsing (90%) during morning and post-midday vs. rams. Animals were actively feeding when the weather was nice and cool, and resting when it was hot. Feeding behavior was dominant during the post-midday period (3 PM–dusk) and lying during midday (11 AM–3 PM). The specific behavior and landscape-use pattern observed in this study can be useful to design and utilize woodland resources more efficiently.
91 Growth performance of landrace hair sheep lambs under different forage environments
Authors: Wildeus Stephan , O’Brien Dahlia , Pent Gabriel J , Payne Kathryn
Published: November 2020

Lambs for the project were produced under semi-continuous lambing using accelerated mating in a dual flock system of landrace hair sheep (Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix). Lamb cohorts were born every 4 mo. At 4 mo of age, lambs were rotationally stocked on pastures consisting of either tall fescue, summer and winter annual forage mixtures, or were provided bermudagrass hay in sacrifice pastures. Lambs were rotated based on forage availability, and forage was sampled for nutrient analysis at each rotation. Soyhull pellets were provided at 1–3% BW. Lambs were removed as they reached 36 kg. Weights were recorded (n = 1945) from 7 cohorts between December 2017 and September 2019 as lambs moved between forage environments (6 to 40 d). The grazing lamb flock was made up of two cohorts (initial size: 25–53 lambs) at any given time. The effect of breed, sex, cohort class (4–7 mo, and 8–11 mo), and forage environment (classified as cool and warm season annual, perennial pasture, and hay) on ADG was determined. Mean ADG was higher in St. Croix than Barbados Blackbelly (105 vs. 93 g/d; P< 0.05), and ram than ewe lambs (115 vs. 84 g/d; P < 0.001). Older cohorts in each grazing period had higher ADG than younger cohorts (105 vs. 94 g/d; P < 0.05). There was a wide range in ADG for individual weigh periods (16 to 310 g/d), but warm and cool season annuals and hay feeding forage environments produced similar ADG (110–117 g/d); while summer perennial forage grazing was lower (56 g/d; P < 0.001). Supplementing forage with soyhull may have masked differences in lamb growth between forage environments despite higher crude protein and TDN in the annual forages (11 to 20%; and 55 to 85%) than in hay and perennial summer grazing (8 to 10%; and 50 to 55%).
66 Effects of level of protein supplementation on intake of wheat straw and drinking water varying in salinity by Boer and Spanish goats
Authors: Merera Chala , Keli Abdelhafid , Puchala Ryszard , Scronce Adaven , Ribeiro Luana P , Lourencoin Raquel , Wang Wei , Goetsch Arthur L
Published: November 2020

The effect of level of supplemental protein on intake of wheat straw by yearling meat goats drinking saline water was determined. Eighteen Boer and 18 Spanish wethers (initial BW 37.5±0.97 and 34.0±0.41 kg, respectively) consumed straw ad libitum supplemented with soybean meal DM at 0.14 or 0.28% BW (LP and HP, respectively) during 2 4-wk phases. Phase-1 water treatments were fresh water [FW; 233 ppm total dissolved salts (TDS)] and FW with 10,000 and 15,000 ppm TDS added via NaCl (MS and HS, respectively). The added TDS level for HS was 20,000 ppm in phase 2. In the preceding 8 wk, MS- and HS-wethers consumed water with 5,000 and 10,000 ppm TDS, respectively. There were no interactions between supplement and water treatments in water or DMI in the last 2 wk of phases. In phase 1, water intake varied among water treatments (1,075, 1,080, and 1,362 g/d; SEM=74.9) but was not influenced by supplement treatment (1,150 and 1,195 g/d; SEM=61.1), and DMI was similar for both water (603, 598, and 640 g/d for FW, MS, and HS, respectively; SEM=30.0) and supplement treatments (627 and 600 g/d for LP and HP, respectively; SEM=24.5). In phase 2, there was a breed×water treatment interaction (P = 0.039) in water intake (1,038, 1,178, and 1,907 for Boer and 744, 1,029, and 1,340 g/d for Spanish consuming FW, MS, and HS, respectively; SEM=77.7). However, straw intake was not influenced by water (717, 736, and 759 g/d for FW, MS, and HS, respectively; SEM=36.4) or supplement treatment (732 and 743 g/d for LP and HP, respectively; SEM=29.7). In conclusion, with relatively high levels of TDS in drinking water achieved by NaCl addition, a high level of supplemental protein did not enhance intake of wheat straw. However, future research should address other types of saline water.
162 The Effects of a Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Product on the Digestibility of an Annual Rye Grass Hay Based Finishing Diet for Lambs
Authors: Burt Justin C , Boyd Jamie A , Baxter Lisa , Perron Brittany
Published: November 2020

Interest in the use of yeast fermentation products has grown in recent years as a natural feed additive for the growth of ruminants in a feedlot setting. The purpose of this study was to determine if the supplementation of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) had an effect on apparent digestibility in Katahdin lambs offered an annual ryegrass hay-based finishing diet. Six Katahdin wethers (n = 6) were divided into two groups CON and TRT and placed into individual metabolism crates in a temperature-controlled room, (21.1° C), and fitted with fecal collection bags. Lambs were offered a TMR diet that was formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous at 14% CP, and annual ryegrass hay based with a top dress of ground corn to be used as a carrier. The TRT received the yeast supplement at a rate of 4g/head/day. The diet was offered ad libitum with orts collected daily to maintain a 5% refusal rate. Lambs were housed in the metabolism crates for 1-wk before the start of the study for adjustment, followed by 4 days of data collection. Feed, orts, fecal, and urine samples were collected and recorded daily during the collection period for each wether and compiled by animal for chemical analysis of DM, NDF, ADF, CP, and ether extract. Indigestible ADF was used as a digestibility marker to determine apparent digestibility. Data were analyzed by PROC GLM for statistical significance. There was no statistical significance found for apparent digestibility of DM (CON=64.6 ±2.5; TRT=63.4±2.5), CP (CON=65.0 ±2.1; TRT=65.9±2.1), NDF (CON=41.2±1.9; TRT=43.0±1.9), or ADF (CON=26.1 ±4.7; TRT=33.8±4.7) between the two groups (P > 0.05). This study concluded that the supplementation of a SCFP had no significant effect on the apparent digestibility of Katahdin wether lambs that were offered an annual ryegrass hay-based finishing diet.
78 Evaluation of extended hair sheep ram semen stored as liquid at 5°C
Authors: Godfrey Robert W , Keiper Sabrina , Lakos Sue
Published: November 2020

This study was designed to evaluate the quality of extended hair sheep ram semen stored as a liquid at 5°C. St Croix White (STX; n = 6) and Dorper x STX (DRPX, n = 5) rams were collected weekly for 3 wk using estrus ewes fitted with an intravaginal collection vial. Semen was kept at 32°C during transport to the lab and during processing. Semen was evaluated for percent motility (MOT), viability (LIVE) using eosin-nigrosin stain and concentration using a hemocytometer counting chamber. Semen was extended to a final concentration of 250 x 106/mL in a one-step dilution with a skim UHT milk extender with 10% egg yolk by volume and packaged into 0.5 mL straws. Straws were stored in a styrofoam box in a refrigerator at 5°C for 96 h, or in an Equitainer® set up using the manufacturer’s instructions, for 24 h at which time they were transferred to the styrofoam box in the refrigerator for 72 h. Semen was evaluated for MOT and LIVE at -1, 0, 24, 48 72 and 96 h relative to cooling. Semen traits were analyzed using GLM of SAS for repeated measures with ram, time, breed and cooling method in the model. There was no difference (P > 0.10) in MOT or LIVE over time between breeds or cooling method. One STX ram did not produce any samples that survived extension; one STX and four DRPX rams produced at least one sample that did not survive extension and all were removed from analysis. The MOT decreased (P < 0.0001) from 81.7 ± 2.9 % at -1 h to 52.2 ± 2.9% at 96 h. The LIVE decreased (P < 0.0001) from 83.1 ± 3.6% at -1 h to 50.4 ± 3.6% at 96 h. These results show that ram semen stored as a liquid at 5°C can maintain motility and viability for 96 h. Further studies will be conducted to evaluate cooling of extended ram semen and fertility after artificial insemination.
90 Growth and carcass characteristics of ram, wether, and short-scrotum lambs: year 2
Authors: Schoenian Susan , Semler Jeff , Bennett Mary Beth , Anderson Chris , Grev Amanda , Perdue Maegan
Published: November 2020

This was the second year of a study comparing the growth and carcass characteristics of (intact) ram, wether, and short-scrotum lambs from a commercial sheep dairy in Maryland. East Friesian x Lacaune lambs were left intact (RAM, n = 21), castrated (WETHER, n = 25), or made short-scrotum (SS, n = 18). All banding of WETHER and SS lambs was done by d 10. When the lambs averaged 65±17 d and 44.5±10.6 lbs., they were transported to the Western Maryland Research & Education Center, where they grazed cool season pastures and were supplemented with grain (3 lb/d) for 107 d, before being harvested to collect carcass data. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS, with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05. Fixed effects included sex and birth type; starting weight was included as a covariate. There was an effect of birth type on final BW, ADG, HCW, CCW, and body wall thickness (BWT), favoring twin-born lambs. RAM and SS lambs had heavier final BW (P < 0.0001) and ADG (P < 0.0001) than WETHER lambs. RAM lambs had heavier hot (P < 0.01) and cold carcass (P < 0.005) weights than WETHER lambs; SS lambs were intermediate. Dressing percentage was higher (P < 0.004) for WETHER lambs and similar for RAM and SS lambs. RAM and SS lambs had larger REA than WETHER lambs (P < 0.03), but not when adjusted to a common weight (P < 0.71). WETHER lambs produced the fattest carcasses, as evidenced by greater BF (3.8±0.2 mm) than RAM and SS lambs (2.2±0.2 mm and 2.7±0.2 mm, respectively). Sex did not influence BWT, KPH, or leg conformation score. RAM lambs yielded a higher percentage of BCTRC (49.9±0.2%) than WETHER lambs (49.1±0.2%); SS lambs were intermediate (49.6±0.3%). For the second year in a row, RAM and SS lambs demonstrated superior growth and carcass composition compared to WETHER lambs.
170 The effects of supplementing a chelated mineral containing Ascophyllum nodosum on intake and performance of creep-fed hair lambs
Authors: Romo Victoria , Boyd Jamie A
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of two commercial mineral supplements on ewes/lamb pairs DMI and ADG. All ewes prior to lambing were maintained a sheep pellet formulated for no mineral, vitamin, or probiotic content at a rate of 2% body weight, ad libitum Bermuda hay, and ad libitum access to the control mineral supplement. Ewe/lamb pairs were randomly assigned based on twining and parity to study groups four days post-lambing. The treatment (TRT) group had 12 ewes/18 lambs, and a control (CNTRL) group had 11 ewes/17 lambs, and was conducted over 6wks. Lambs in both groups were offered ad libitum alfalfa via a creep feeding gate. The TRT group received a commercial chelated mineral mix that included Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract in the blend and the CNTRL received a commercial non-chelated mineral without seaweed extract. Chelated minerals were Cu, Mn, and Zn. Daily feed and ort samples were collected 2x week and dried at 55℃ for analysis. Feed was adjusted daily to maintain a 3–5% refusal rate. Samples were compiled by week and analyzed for DM, Ash, aNDF, aADF, EE, and CP. Blood samples were collected from a subset of 7 ewes per group, 3x during the study (wk1, wk3, wk6) for later trace mineral analysis (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Se). Results indicate a significant difference in mineral DMI between groups (P = 0.03), but no significant impact on DMI of Bermuda or alfalfa. ADG for lambs was numerically increased 0.25±0.01 TRT versus 0.23±0.01 kg CNTRL but was not statistically significant (P = 0.18). No significant differences in trace mineral levels between groups or over time was seen. All mineral levels were in the normal range for both groups. It appears the addition of the chelated mineral with Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract did not improve ADG or DMI, but the results of this study were potentially affected by severe weather conditions. Further study is needed under more favorable conditions to confirm product impacts in ewe/lamb pairs.
165 The effects of feeding lasalocid in combination with zeranol implants on performance and carcass traits in hair sheep
Authors: Lippy Brittany A , Wilson Blake K , Fitch Jerry , Mafi Gretchen G , Crosswhite Justin
Published: November 2020

The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of dietary inclusion of lasalocid in combination with zeranol implants on the performance and carcass characteristics of hair sheep. Thirty wether hair lambs (BW = 25.8 + 4.6 kg) were stratified by BW and BCS and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 experimental treatments in a randomized complete block design. The treatments included no implant or ionophore (CON); and the experimental treatment, receiving the ionophore lasalocid (Bovatec® 91; Zoetis, Kalamazoo, MI) and anabolic zeranol implants (Ralgro®; MSD Animal Health, Spartan, RSA; LZ). Lambs on the LZ treatment received 12 mg of zeranol on d 0, 56, and 112, unless lambs were harvested prior to day 112, and consumed an average of 35 mg per day of lasalocid. Lambs had ad libitum access to feed and water throughout the experiment and were housed in individual, slatted floor pens. Performance data were collected on d 0, 14, 28, 56, 84, and at harvest. After d 84, harvest dates were selected and lambs were harvested by block based on proximity to ideal harvest weight and fat thickness. Lasalocid in the diet combined with zeranol implants increased final BW by 14.2% in comparison to CON (P < 0.01). Overall ADG was increased by 36.2% (P < 0.01), and overall G:F was improved by 24.4% for LZ when compared to CON (P = 0.01). There was no difference in overall DMI between treatments (P = 0.13). Hot carcass weight (HCW; P < 0.01), and loin eye area (LEA; P < 0.01) were also greater for the LZ treatment. Dietary inclusion of lasalocid in combination with zeranol implants improved overall BW, ADG, and feed efficiency as well as HCW and LEA in hair sheep.
171 The effects of supplementing a chelated mineral containing Ascophyllum nodosum on intake and performance of creep-fed hair lambs
Authors: Romo Victoria , Boyd Jamie A
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of two commercial mineral supplements on ewes/lamb pairs DMI and ADG. All ewes prior to lambing were maintained a sheep pellet formulated for no mineral, vitamin, or probiotic content at a rate of 2% body weight, ad libitum Bermuda hay, and ad libitum access to the control mineral supplement. Ewe/lamb pairs were randomly assigned based on twining and parity to study groups four days post-lambing. The treatment (TRT) group had 12 ewes/18 lambs, and a control (CNTRL) group had 11 ewes/17 lambs, and was conducted over 6wks. Lambs in both groups were offered ad libitum alfalfa via a creep feeding gate. The TRT group received a commercial chelated mineral mix that included Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract in the blend and the CNTRL received a commercial non-chelated mineral without seaweed extract. Chelated minerals were Cu, Mn, and Zn. Daily feed and ort samples were collected 2x week and dried at 55℃ for analysis. Feed was adjusted daily to maintain a 3–5% refusal rate. Samples were compiled by week and analyzed for DM, Ash, aNDF, aADF, EE, and CP. Blood samples were collected from a subset of 7 ewes per group, 3x during the study (wk1, wk3, wk6) for later trace mineral analysis (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Se). Results indicate a significant difference in mineral DMI between groups (P = 0.03), but no significant impact on DMI of Bermuda or alfalfa. ADG for lambs was numerically increased 0.25±0.01 TRT versus 0.23±0.01 kg CNTRL but was not statistically significant (P = 0.18). No significant differences in trace mineral levels between groups or over time were seen. All mineral levels were in the normal range for both groups. It appears the addition of the chelated mineral with Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract did not improve ADG or DMI, but the results of this study were potentially affected by severe weather conditions. Further study is needed under more favorable conditions to confirm product impacts in ewe/lamb pairs.
74 Epigenetic marks within the swine placenta are differentially expressed due to season
Authors: Cheek Robin , Rempel Lea A , Miles Jeremy
Published: November 2020

The objective of the current project was to validate expression of known chromatin modification genes and assess downstream targets in d45 swine placenta derived from seasonal semen collections and breedings and semen storage. Six treatment groups were developed based upon; season of semen collection (cool or warm), storage of semen (cooled-extended or cryopreserved), and season of breeding (summer or winter) with 8 litters per group as follows: 1) cool/cooled-extended/winter, 2) cool/cryopreserved/winter, 3) warm/cryopreserved/winter, 4) warm/cooled-extended/summer, 5) warm/cooled-extended/summer, and 6) cool/cryopreserved/summer. RNA was extracted from the placenta of a small, medium, and large fetus from each litter, pooled by litter, reverse transcribed, and used for qPCR. Three genes; ATF2, ASH2L, and SMYD3, were validated. Downstream gene targets, ILIB and NANOG, were also tested. Interactions and main effects were tested using the mixed procedure of SAS with boar as a random effect. Placental ASH2L had a tendency for increased expression from summer breedings (P > 0.05), similar to previous findings using a different expression platform. Placental expression of ATF2 was greatest (P < 0.05) from placenta derived by summer breedings. A downstream target of ATF2, ILIB, had greater (P < 0.05) placental expression from summer breedings and semen that was cooled-extended as compared to cryopreserved (P < 0.05). Validation of placental expression of SMYD3 was greater from cooled-extended semen in contrast to cryopreserved semen (P < 0.05). These data were unexpected, as previously we determined a difference by breeding season only. However, NANOG, downstream of SMYD3, had greater placental expression from summer breedings (P < 0.05). The current study validated previous results indicating chromatin modification genes were primarily influenced predominantly by breeding season and to a lesser extent, semen storage techniques. Downstream targets were also influenced by breeding season likely influencing prenatal development. These data support epigenetic modifications persist, even though modern swine systems regulate and control temperature and lighting.
48 Effect of Zelnate administered at initial processing in high-risk, newly received beef calves on performance and morbidity
Authors: Martin Brady E , Cauble Reagan N , Kegley Elizabeth , Powell Jermey G
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Zelnate, a DNA immunostimulant, administered to calves (n = 261; BW 253 ± 4.0 kg) upon arrival, on morbidity and mortality, growth performance, and producer costs. Crossbred male beef calves (steers and bulls) were acquired from multiple auction markets and transported to the University of Arkansas stocker unit for a 42-d backgrounding period. Calves were randomly allocated to chute side into treatment groups: 1) Control (CON) in which no immunostimulant was administered or 2) Zelnate (ZEL), DNA immunostimulant administered. Animals were checked daily for signs of morbidity and treated with preplanned antibiotics. Records for morbidity and mortality were kept in addition to body temperature, clinical score, and body weight at the time of treatment. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedures of SAS. Significance was declared at P < 0.05 and tendencies were observed between 0.05 ≤ P < 0.10. No animals died during the duration of this study, however, Zelnate treated calves tended (P = 0.09) to have a lower relapse rate compared to control calves. Average daily gain was similar (P = 0.60) between the two treatment groups. This study also indicated that the treatment cost (Zelnate plus antibiotics) for the Zelnate group was more expensive than the cost to treat the control group (P < 0.01). Overall, our findings indicate that Zelnate administered upon arrival to high risk calves did not improve morbidity rates and respiratory treatment or affect performance, however it did increase costs by $9.24 per calf. Based upon these results, Zelnate does not appear to be an effective therapy for BRD when given upon arrival.
104 Impacts of Phosphorus Intake on Beef Heifer Growth Performance and Reproductive Tract Scores
Authors: Hilfiker Hailey , Kegley Elizabeth , Rorie Rick , Hornsby Pete A , Reynolds Jana , Shoulders Ben P , Cauble Reagan N , Powell Jermey G
Published: November 2020

This study aims to examine the effects of phosphorus intake on beef heifer growth performance and conception rates. In Northwest Arkansas, there has been an increase in phosphorus concentrations in soil where livestock manures have been repeatedly applied. Consequently, forages grown on soils high in phosphorus tend to contain high amounts of the mineral itself. This has led many to question whether it is necessary to supplement phosphorus in areas where concentrations may be higher. In this study, crossbred Angus heifers (n = 72), approximately 30 d after weaning, were stratified by body weight (average initial weight 251 ± 3.9 kg) and allocated randomly into 8 groups. Groups were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 treatments. Treatments were delivered through either 1) a free-choice-mineral mix that contained no supplemental phosphorus (CON), or 2) a free-choice-mineral mix with 4% supplemental phosphorus and identical concentrations of other supplemental minerals (4PMIN). Heifers grazed 2.42 ha mixed grass pastures with a history of livestock manure application and were supplemented with soy hulls (0.5% of body weight) daily. Data were analyzed using the mixed procedures of SAS with group as the experimental unit. Total mineral intake through d 112 did not differ (P = 0.55) between treatments. On d 112, any heifers > 273 kg body weight (n = 58) had an ultrasound evaluation of their reproductive tract. Reproductive tract score (1, infantile, to 5, corpus luteum present) did not differ (P = 0.65) due to treatment. Body weights were not different (P = 0.78) on d 112, 301 ± 5.0 kg and 299 ± 5.0 kg for CON and 4PMIN, respectively. When grazing pastures with a history of livestock manure application, levels of supplemental phosphorus in the free choice mineral did not affect heifer growth performance and reproductive tract scores.
153 The Effect of Nerve Growth Factor Beta on Embryonic Cleavage Rates
Authors: Jones Kayla
Published: November 2020

Nerve growth factor (NGF) beta is a seminal plasma protein that has been associated with sire conception rates in cattle. Previous research showed that the administration of NGFβ, via culture media, to cows resulted in improved conceptus development. Though this finding was thought to be an indirect effect of improved corpus luteum (CL) function, questions raised if NGFβ could act directly on the embryo to promote development. This work seeks to determine the effect of NGFβ supplementation during in-vitro fertilization (IVF) on cleavage and blastocyst rates. How does the administration of NGFβ in culture media affect cleavage and blastocyst rates during in-vitro fertilization? Abattoir-derived bovine ovaries were used for recovery of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC). Selected COC were placed in the maturation medium. Expanded COC were inseminated with frozen-thawed spermatozoa, and IVF media was supplemented with either 0 ng/mL or 100 ng/mL NGF. Presumptive zygotes were transferred to development medium in a tri-gas chamber with 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2 in a humidified atmosphere at 39°C, mimicking the bovine uterine climate, until 8 days. Treatment with NGFβ increased the percentage of cleaved embryos at 48 hours and the percentage of hatched embryos at 8 days per oocyte. Treatment of NGFβ did not alter the percentage of blastocysts per cleaved embryo or the percentage of hatched blastocysts. These results show that the NGFβ can act directly on the embryo during fertilization to alter embryonic development, specifically embryonic cleavage rates. Future in vivo studies should assess the downstream effects of NGF treatment on conception rates in cattle.
The effect of hormones on an uncommon breast disorder pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hattingh Genevieve , Ibrahim Mariam , Robinson Thomas , Shah Ajay
Published: November 2020

Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) is a benign proliferation of the breast, with few cases reported to date. While the etiology of the disease is uncertain, a prevailing theory is that PASH is hormonally responsive, especially in the presence of progesterone. Literature review shows a correlation between PASH development and oral contraceptive pill (OCP) use. We report a case of a 28-year-old autistic female who underwent excision of palpable bilateral breast masses where the histology of the left breast mass identified as PASH. Our patient had a history of multiple medications including OCPs and cytochrome p450 inhibitors that could lead to an increase in progesterone levels. Thus, supporting a theory that medications, in addition to OCPs, may lead to an increased occurrence of PASH in pre-menopausal women.
Dermointegration in the exposed titanium cranioplasty: a possible protective phenomenon
Authors: Zhang Steven Liben , Lee Hanjing , Cai Elijah Zhengyang , Yap Yan Lin , Yeo Tseng Tsai , Lim Thiam Chye , Tan Char Loo , Lim Jane
Published: November 2020

Implant exposure is a known complication of titanium mesh cranioplasty and is usually managed by implant removal and/or exchange. We describe a case of exposed titanium mesh cranioplasty which was managed with implant exchange and bipedicled flap coverage, and showcase an interesting phenomenon of full-thickness skin present beneath the exposed mesh. This was confirmed on histopathology, which showed the presence of dermal appendages including pilosebaceous units and eccrine glands. We postulate that the mechanism behind this phenomenon involves islands of viable skin ‘dropping’ between holes in the mesh and coalescing beneath the exposed implant, as suggested by histopathology findings of nodular protrusions and varying degrees of epidermal hyperplasia. This protects the underlying dura from external infection. We propose for this phenomenon to be called dermointegration. Our findings suggest that similar cases, particularly patients who are not fit for general anaesthesia, may potentially be managed with a more conservative approach.
God Bothering Beckett
Authors: Conti Christopher
Published: November 2020

In this article I consider the bearing of theology on Samuel Beckett’s work in terms of what he called ‘the shape’ of the idea. At the heart of Beckett’s negative aesthetic program is the relation of art to truth. The Beckettian subject and object are the remnants of a denarration that foregrounds the pains his narrators endure on their quest for aseity or inexistence. The narrative struggle to tell a story that cannot be told without falsifying it entails a relation to the absolute centring on the experience of incomprehensibility and pain. In Beckett, God can no more come to expression than the self, making the connection between the two impossibilities all but inescapable.
Enhanced Lidov–Kozai migration and the formation of the transiting giant planet WD 1856+534 b
Authors: O’Connor Christopher E , Liu Bin , Lai Dong
Published: November 2020

We investigate the possible origin of the transiting giant planet WD 1856+534 b, the first strong exoplanet candidate orbiting a white dwarf, through high-eccentricity migration (HEM) driven by the Lidov–Kozai (LK) effect. The host system’s overall architecture is a hierarchical quadruple in the ‘2 + 2’ configuration, owing to the presence of a tertiary companion system of two M-dwarfs. We show that a secular inclination resonance in 2 + 2 systems can significantly broaden the LK window for extreme eccentricity excitation (e ≳ 0.999), allowing the giant planet to migrate for a wide range of initial orbital inclinations. Octupole effects can also contribute to the broadening of this ‘extreme’ LK window. By requiring that perturbations from the companion stars be able to overcome short-range forces and excite the planet’s eccentricity to e ≃ 1, we obtain an absolute limit of $a_{1} \gtrsim 8 \, \mathrm{au}\, (a_{3} / 1500 \, \mathrm{au})^{6/7}$ for the planet’s semimajor axis just before migration (where a3 is the semimajor axis of the ‘outer’ orbit). We suggest that, to achieve a wide LK window through the 2 + 2 resonance, WD 1856 b likely migrated from $30 \, \mathrm{au}\lesssim a_{1} \lesssim 60 \, \mathrm{au}$, corresponding to ∼10–$20 \, \mathrm{au}$ during the host’s main-sequence phase. We discuss possible difficulties of all flavours of HEM affecting the occurrence rate of short-period giant planets around white dwarfs.
Premature ovarian ageing following heterozygous loss of Senataxin
Authors: Subramanian G N , Lavin M , Homer H A
Published: November 2020

Premature loss of ovarian activity before 40 years of age is known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) and occurs in ∼1% of women. A more subtle decline in ovarian activity, known as premature ovarian ageing (POA), occurs in ∼10% of women. Despite the high prevalence of POA, very little is known regarding its genetic causation. Senataxin (SETX) is an RNA/DNA helicase involved in repair of oxidative stress-induced DNA damage. Homozygous mutation of SETX leads to the neurodegenerative disorder, ataxia oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2). There have been reports of POI in AOA2 females suggesting a link between SETX and ovarian ageing. Here, we studied female mice lacking either one (Setx+/−) or both (Setx−/−) copies of SETX over a 12- to 14-month period. We find that DNA damage is increased in oocytes from 8-month-old Setx+/− and Setx−/− females compared with Setx+/+ oocytes leading to a marked reduction in all classes of ovarian follicles at least 4 months earlier than typically occurs in female mice. Furthermore, during a 12-month long mating trial, Setx+/− and Setx−/− females produced significantly fewer pups than Setx+/+ females from 7 months of age onwards. These data show that SETX is critical for preventing POA in mice, likely by preserving DNA integrity in oocytes. Intriguingly, heterozygous Setx loss causes an equally severe impact on ovarian ageing as homozygous Setx loss. Because heterozygous SETX disruption is less likely to produce systemic effects, SETX compromise could underpin some cases of insidious POA.
SL-1 Activity on Nationwide Cancer Genome Screening Project for Advanced Solid Tumors; SCRUM-Japan GI-/MONSTAR-SCREEN
Authors: Yoshino Takayuki
Published: November 2020

Advances in precision oncology have made genotyping mandatory for most advanced solid tumors to ensure proper therapy selection. However, the innovations remains limited by the realities of patient identification-actionable targets are present in only a small fraction of patients. We initiated a nationwide cancer genome screening project, SCRUM-Japan GI- (from 2015 to 19)/MONSTAR-SCREEN (since 2019) with the purpose of matching patients with interventional IND trials. We revealed requirement for tissue samples hampers recruitment, and genotyping using archival tumor samples provides information only at a single spatial and temporal point and fail to detect chronological tumor evolution and intratumoral heterogeneity, both of which are obstacles for proper therapy selection. We also demonstrated circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based methods have the potential of ctDNA analysis for genomic profiling as an alternative for tissue genotyping. Recently, gut microbiome has the promise in predictive value of therapy. Serial analyses with ctDNA and microbiome at pre- and post- cancer therapies are ongoing. Updated results will be presented.