bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of beef production system on vitamin B12 concentrations in plasma and muscle
Authors: Girard C. L. , Berthiaume R. , Faucitano L. , Lafrenière C.
Published: April 2011

Vitamin B12 concentrations in longissimus dorsi of steers were decreased by the addition of concentrate as compared with feeding with grass silage only, but this decrease was prevented by the use of growth promotants (Revalor® and Rumensin®; P = 0.06). Beef production systems can modify vitamin B12 concentrations in meat. Key words: Beef, plasma, muscle, vitamin B12
Effects of grain source, silage level, and slaughter weight endpoint on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality in Angus and Charolais steers
Authors: McEwen P. L. , Mandell I. B. , Brien G. , Campbell C. P.
Published: April 2011

Two growth performance trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of grain source (corn vs. barley), corn silage level (15 vs. 50%) and body weight (BW) at slaughter on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and beef quality. Gains were greater ( P < 0.01) feeding corn vs. barley to Angus cattle slaughtered at 550 or 600 kg, most likely due to greater (P < 0.02) feed intakes for corn-fed cattle. Despite greater dry matter intake (DMI; P < 0.01) and feed to gain ratios (P < 0.08) with 50% silage diets, cost of production was lower (P < 0.01) feeding 50 vs. 15% silage diets. Grain source by BW endpoint interactions (P < 0.06) were present for Angus steers due to greater average daily gain (ADG) and lower feed to gain and cost of production in corn-fed cattle slaughtered at 600 versus 550 kg, while the converse was the case for barley-fed cattle. Carcass characteristics and palatability attributes were generally not affected (P > 0.05) by grain source or silage level in the diet. Grain source by silage level by slaughter endpoint interactions (P < 0.08) were present for measures of tenderness (shear force and taste panel assessment of tenderness, chewiness, and rate of breakdown). Gains were not affected (P > 0.27) by grain source for Charolais cattle, while barley feeding decreased (P < 0.10) DMI, feed to gain, and costs of production versus corn feeding. Silage level in the diet did not affect (P > 0.10) any growth performance trait in Charolais cattle. Grain source generally did not affect (P > 0.10) most carcass characteristics and shear force with the Charolais steers. The feeding of the 15% silage diet decreased (P < 0.10) measures of leanness and muscling. Many carcass characteristics were affected (P < 0.02) by slaughter endpoint in Charolais steers, with values changing as BW at slaughter increased from 600 to 700 kg. Key words: Corn, barley, beef cattle, slaughter endpoint, shear force, palatability attributes
Metabolic and endocrine responses to cold and feed restriction in ruminants
Authors: Ekpe E. D. , Christopherson R. J.
Published: April 2011

Twenty-four wether lambs were assigned to different temperature and feeding levels to assess their metabolic and endocrine profiles and to test the hypothesis that energy conservation responses of sheep to feed restriction occur in warm but not cold environments. Lambs were kept in warm (W; 23 ± 2 °C) or cold (C; 0 ± 2 °C) environments and received either an ad libitum (A) or a restricted (1.35 × maintenance) (R) level of feed intake, thus creating four treatment groups (WA, WR, CA and CR). Average daily gain (ADG), feed intake, metabolic rates, rectal temperature, and plasma levels of insulin, thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and cortisol were recorded during three periods of 5 wk each. The ADG was lower (P < 0.001) in feed-restricted groups. Cold exposure reduced the ADG along with feed efficiency in the first period (P < 0.01). Metabolic rate was lowered by feed restriction (P < 0.01) in periods 1 and 3, but was increased by cold exposure in ad libitum-fed sheep during period 1 (P < 0.05). Both cold exposure and feed restriction lowered rectal temperature (P < 0.001). Plasma insulin concentration was lowered by feed restriction (P < 0.05) and was increased (P < 0.05) by cold exposure during periods 2 and 3. Plasma T3 concentration was reduced (P < 0.05) by feed restriction and was increased by cold exposure during periods 1 and 2. Plasma T4 level remained unaltered (P > 0.05) while plasma cortisol concentration was increased by both cold exposure and feed restriction (P < 0.01). The results indicate that lambs show metabolic and physiological responses to feed restriction, which conserve energy in a cold as well as a warm environment. Key words: Sheep, hormone, cold-exposure, feed-restriction.
Seasonal intake determination in reproductive wapiti hinds (Cervus elaphus canadensis) using n-alkane markers
Authors: Gedir J. V. , Hudson R. J.
Published: April 2011

We used bite-count and double n-alkane ratio techniques to estimate dry matter intake (DMI) of wapiti hinds on heavily or lightly grazed pastures, during important reproductive phases (early/late gestation, peak/late lactation). Despite seasonal differences in phytomass between pastures, differences in DMI were not significant and results were pooled for seasonal comparisons. The annual nadir of intake occurred in late gestation (3.44 ± 0.17 kg DM d−1) despite the nutrient demands of the rapidly growing foetus. Spring weight loss (−2.9 ± 0.8 g kg−0.75 d−1) reflected the inability of hinds to graze sufficiently to meet these nutritional requirements, even though herbage quality was at its seasonal peak. Although energy requirements peaked during early lactation, hinds were able to consume enough high quality forage (5.38 ± 0.25 kg DM d−1) to achieve compensatory growth (12.5 ± 1.4 g kg−0.75 d−1). Continued elevated intakes through late summer (5.32 ± 0.41 kg DM d−1) and autumn (4.41 ± 0.24 kg DM d−1) ensured that hinds regained adequate condition for the breeding season. Key words: Intake, n-alkanes, lactation, gestation, wapiti
Behaviour, growth performance and pork quality of pigs differing in porcine stress syndrome genotype receiving dietary magnesium aspartate hydrochloride
Authors: Caine W. R. , Schaefer A. L. , Aalhus J. L. , Dugan M. E. R.
Published: April 2011

Frequency of behavioural activities, growth performance and pork quality were determined for pigs with homozygous-normal (NN) or heterozygous-carrier (Nn) genotypes for porcine stress syndrome receiving dietary supplementation of magnesium aspartate hydrochloride (MAH). One hundred and forty-two pigs, 67.2 ± 1.2 kg, were assigned by genotype and gender to one of three dietary treatments. The pigs were fed a conventional cereal-based pelleted diet (Control), supplemented with a long-term, low-level (LL-MAH; 5 mg kg−1 BW for 43 ± 3 d) or short-term, high-level (SH-MAH; 40 mg kg−1 BW for 7 d) of MAH before slaughter. Supplementation of MAH did not significantly affect the behaviour of pigs before or after transport for slaughter with the exception of SH-MAH-fed pigs showing a higher (P < 0.05) frequency of pre-transport aggression. Pigs with the Nn genotype were, in general, more active 1 h before slaughter showing a higher frequency (P = 0.001) of aggression. Average daily gain of LL-MAH-fed pigs was higher (P < 0.05) than for those pigs fed the Control and SH-MAH diets. Pigs receiving both levels of MAH had lower (P < 0.05) longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle lean depth. In terms of pork quality, there were significant diet-by-genotype interactions. For pigs with the NN genotype, SH-MAH caused higher (P < 0.05) ultimate pH, lower muscle temperature and lower shear value of the LT. For pigs with the Nn genotype, MAH at both levels lowered (P < 0.05) glycogen content and subjective structure score of the LT, but ultimate pH, muscle temperature and lactate content were higher (P < 0.05) than those of Controls. Efficacy of MAH supplementation to pigs appears to be highly dependent on diet and genotype. Key words: Pigs, porcine stress syndrome, magnesium, pork
Effects of stage of processing of canola seed on chemical composition and in vitro protein degradability of canola meal and intermediate products
Authors: Mustafa A. F. , Christensen D. A. , McKinnon J. J. , Newkirk R.
Published: April 2011

A study was conducted to determine the effects of stage of processing of canola seed on chemical characteristics and in vitro crude protein degradability (IVCPD) of canola products. Processing stage prior to oil extraction had no effect on nutrient composition or IVCPD of canola products. Prepressing of cooked flaked seed reduced IVCPD and increased fiber and crude protein (CP) levels of presscake relative to canola seed (P < 0.05). Heating in the desolvetizer-toaster increased neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content and reduced CP solubility and IVCPD of canola meal relative to solvent-extracted meal (P < 0.05). Acid detergent insoluble CP of canola products was not affected by stage of processing. It was concluded that major changes in protein composition and degradability took place as a result of heating in the desolventizer-toaster stage. Key words: Canola processing, heat treatment, protein degradability
Effect of Wagyu genetics on marbling, backfat and circulating hormones in cattle
Authors: Mears G. J. , Mir P. S. , Bailey D. R. C. , Jones S. D. M.
Published: April 2011

Backfat depths, marbling scores, and concentrations of plasma insulin, cortisol, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) were determined in 394 calves with and without Wagyu genetics. Hormone concentrations were determined three to five times for hormones between weaning and slaughter. Calves were weighed and backfat was ultrasonically determined at 28-d intervals, and assigned for slaughter when ultrasonic backfat depths approached 12 mm. Heifers weighed less (P < 0.001) and had more backfat (P < 0.05) and more marbling (P < 0.05) than steers at slaughter. Breed influenced slaughter weight (P < 0.001) and average backfat depth (P < 0. 001), with Wagyu/Angus and Wagyu/Hereford crosses and Angus purebreds generally having greater backfat depths and lower slaughter weights than other crosses and purebreds. Marbling scores were not affected by breed (P > 0.1), although Wagyu crosses had more marbling (P < 0.05) compared with purebreds when variability in marbling due to differences in backfat depth was removed. Plasma cortisol, T3 and T4 were affected by calf breed, although there were no clear patterns for groups of breeds or breed crosses. There was a slight trend (P < 0.2) towards higher insulin levels and lower cortisol, T3 and T4 levels in some groups of calves with more backfat. Higher mean levels (P < 0.05) of T3 and T4 were found in all but one group of animals with more marbling. Thus, thyroid hormones may have a role to play in enhancing marbling in cattle. Key words: Wagyu cattle, marbling, backfat, insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones
Energy and nutrient utilization responses of ducks to enzyme supplementation of soybean meal and wheat
Authors: Adeola O. , Nyachoti C. M. , Ragland D.
Published: April 2011

The potential benefits of exogenous dietary enzymes in duck nutrition have been studied to a limited extent. Thus, the effects of protease and a cocktail of xylanase, amylase, and protease (Avizyme) on dry matter (DM), energy and nitrogen (N) utilization from soybean meal (SBM) and wheat, respectively, were investigated in White Pekin ducks in two 102-h studies. In exp. 1, three dietary treatments consisting of SBM supplemented with 0, 7500, or 15 000 units of protease acitivity kg-1 of soybean meal were each tube-fed to 12 ducks (4.41 ± 0.302 kg). In exp. 2, three dietary treatments consisting of wheat supplemented with 0, 450 units of xylanase, 600 units of amylase, and 6000 units of protease activity kg-1 or 600 units of xylanase, 800 units of amylase, and 12 000 units of protease activity kg-1 of wheat were each tube-fed to eight ducks (4.07 ± 0.363 kg). All birds were tube fed 30 g of dextrose at 24 and 30 h after feed withdrawal. Thirty grams of each diet were tube-fed at 48 and 54 h after feed withdrawal. Excreta were quantitatively collected during the 54 h after the first feeding. Endogenous energy and N per bird in the 54 h collection period in exp. 1 were 50.7 kcal ± 27.51 kcal and 1.595 ± 0.635 g, respectively. Corresponding values for exp. 2 were 27.5 ± 16.7 kcal and 0.96 ± 0.619 g, respectively. Protease supplementation to SBM improved energy (P < 0.05) utilization and tended to improve DM and N (P < 0.10) compared with the control. The AME, AMEn, TME, and TMEn values were higher (P < 0.05) in protease-supplemented SBM than in control. Avizyme addition to wheat did not affect DM or N utilization (P > 0.10). The only response criteria improved (P < 0.05) by Avizyme supplementation of wheat were AMEn and TMEn. It is concluded that energy and nutrient utilization in White Pekin ducks can be improved with exogenous dietary enzyme supplementation. Key words: Exogenous enzymes, energy and nitrogen metabolism, wheat, soybean meal,
Apparent and standardized ileal digestibility of amino acids in yeast extract and spray dried plasma protein by weanling pigs
Authors: Mateo C. D. , Stein H. H.
Published: April 2011

The objective of this experiment was to measure the apparent (AID) and standardized (SID) ileal digestibility of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AA) in yeast extract and spray dried plasma protein (SDPP) by weanling pigs. A casein-based diet, a casein-SDPP diet, a casein-yeast extract diet, and a N-free diet were formulated and fed to weanling pigs. Values for AID and SID in yeast extract and SDPP were calculated using the difference procedure. Results showed that the AID for CP and all AA with the exception of Cys and Ser are similar between yeast extract and SDPP. Likewise, no differences in SID for CP or AA were observed between yeast extract and SDPP. The current data demonstrate that both yeast extract and SDPP contain protein that is relatively well digested by young pigs. Key words: Amino acids, digestibility, pigs, spray dried plasma protein, yeast extract
Adult Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection did not affect protein synthesis rate in whole-body, intestinal, hepatic and skeletal muscle tissues of lambs fed fresh Lucerne (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Bermingham E. N. , McNabb W. C. , Sutherland I. A. , Sinclair B. R. , Treloar B. P. , Roy N. C.
Published: April 2011

The effects of an established Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection on the whole-body and fractional protein synthesis rates in the small intestine, liver, lymphoid tissues, skeletal muscle and skin were determined in lambs fed fresh Lucerne (Medicago sativa; 800 g DM d-1) on day 48 post-infection. Lambs were dosed with 6000 L3 T. colubriformis larvae for 6 d (n = 5) or kept as parasite-free controls (n = 6). On day 45, the lambs received a bolus injection of deuterated water to measure the size of the whole-body water pool. On day 48, the lambs were continuously infused with [3, 4-3H]-valine into the jugular vein and [1-13C]-valine in the abomasum for 8 h. During the infusion, mesenteric artery blood and terminal tissue samples were collected for measuring the isotopic activity of plasma water, plasma valine, intra cellular valine and protein-bound valine. Intestinal worm numbers on day 48 were higher (P < 0.001) in the infected lambs, however, there was no effect (P > 0.10) of parasitic infection on feed intake, liveweight gain, whole-body protein synthesis and fractional protein synthesis of most tissues. Key words: Parasite infection, protein synthesis, lambs
Estrous synchronization and the male effect in captive muskoxen
Authors: Rowell J. E. , Sousa M. C. , Shipka M. P.
Published: April 2011

Bovine CIDR were used for 11 d to synchronize estrus in 18 farmed muskoxen. Nine muskoxen went into harem for 1 wk (BRED) following CIDR removal and nine animals served as treated, non-mated controls (CTL). Progestin treatment prevented short estrous cycles (100% BRED; 88.9% CTL). The interval from CIDR removal to CL formation was 7.2 d (BRED) and 11.6 d (CTL) and fertility rate at the estrus following treatment was 88.9% (BRED). The use of bovine CIDR to synchronize estrus reduced the harem period to 1 wk and resulted in synchronized calving (7 d) following a mean gestation of 246 d. Key words: CIDR, Estrous synchronization, male effect, muskoxen, Ovibos moschatus
Corn or soybean hull incorporation into haylage-based backgrounding beef cattle diets: Effect on growth and efficiency during the backgrounding and finishing periods
Authors: Swanson K. C. , Ko M. , Mader C. J.
Published: April 2011

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of corn or soybean hull incorporation into haylage-based diets on backgrounding calf performance and subsequent feedlot performance. Crossbred steers [n = 48, initial body weight (BW) = 303 ± 3.4 kg] were individually fed dietary treatments consisting of: (1) haylage [17.5% crude protein, dry matter (DM) basis; control], (2) haylage + 20% (DM basis) cracked corn, and (3) haylage + 20% (DM basis) soybean hulls during a 112-d backgrounding period. After the backgrounding period, all steers were adapted to a common high moisture corn-based finishing diet and fed until an ultrasound estimated backfat thickness of 7 mm was obtained. During the backgrounding period, steers fed cracked corn or soybean hulls had greater (P < 0.01) average daily gain, dry matter intake and gain:feed and lower (P = 0.05) plasma urea N as compared with controls. However, when finished on a common high-concentrate diet, steers previously fed cracked corn had greater (P < 0.08) average daily gain, final body weight, and longissimus muscle area than those fed soybean hulls, suggesting that source of supplemental energy during the backgrounding period may influence subsequent feedlot performance. Key words: Beef cattle, backgrounding, energy supplementation
Rumen degradation ratios, available protein, and structural and non-structural carbohydrates: Comparison of frost-damaged wheat with normal wheat
Authors: and Peiqiang Yu , Racz Vern
Published: April 2011

In this study, rumen degradation ratios and characteristics of estimated structural carbohydrates (SC), non-structural carbohydrate (starch: ST), and crude protein (CP) in the frost-damaged wheat were determined in dairy cows, using Tamminga’s Rumen Degradation Ratio System. The rumen degradation ratios were compared with the optimum ratio range. Measured ruminal degradation characteristics were soluble fraction (S: ST and CP), undegradable fraction (U: SC and CP), lag time (T0: SC and CP), and rate of degradation (Kd: SC, ST, and CP) of the insoluble but degradable fraction (D: SC, ST, and CP). The results for the S, U, and D fractions and for T0 and Kd were used to calculate the subsequent parameters of the rumen degradation ratios. The overall test weight losses of the frost-damaged wheat were around 24%. The measured characteristics showed significant (P < 0.05) differences between the normal and frost-damaged wheat: (1) rumen available insoluble N (EN), SC (ESC), and ST (EST) were 14 vs. 11 (P < 0.05), 133 vs. 254 (P < 0.05), and 441 vs. 326 g kg-1 DM (P < 0.05), respectively, for the normal and frost-damaged wheat; (2) rumen available soluble N (SN), SC (SSC), and ST (SST) were 3 vs. 6 (P < 0.05), 0 vs. 0, and 86 vs. 84 g kg-1 DM (P > 0.05), respectively; and (3) total rumen available N (FN), SC (FSC) and ST (FST) were 17 vs. 17 (P > 0.05), 139 vs. 254 (P < 0.05), and 527 vs. 410 g kg-1 DM (P < 0.05), respectively. Degradation ratios were calculated based on the measured characteristics. The ratio between rumen available insoluble N and carbohydrates (EN/ECHO = 18 vs. 24 g kg-1, P < 0.05) was significantly lower for the frost-damaged than for the normal wheat. The frost-damaged wheat had numerically higher rumen available soluble N/carbohydrate ratio (SN/SCHO = 89 vs. 35 g kg-1, P > 0.05) and same total rumen available N/carbohydrate ratio (FN/FCHO = 25 vs. 25 g kg-1) than the normal wheat. These results indicated that the normal and frost-damaged wheat differed in degradation characteristics; however, both exhibited a rumen fermentation ratio FN/FCHO within the optimal range (25 to 33 g N kg-1 CHO). Key words: Optimal rumen fermentation, degradation ratio, frost-damaged wheat
Duration of a severe feed restriction required to reversibly decrease milk production in the high-producing dairy cow
Authors: Toerien Chanelle A. , Cant John P.
Published: April 2011

To establish the duration of a severe feed restriction necessary to reversibly decrease milk production in high-producing Holstein cows, milk, plasma and urine parameters were assessed every 6 h during a 24-h restriction and 18-h refeed period. The 24-h restriction decreased yields of milk, protein and lactose by more than 30% without inducing ketosis or impairing milk production post-trial. Key words: Feed restriction, dairy cows, milk yield, plasma metabolites
Influence of genotype on metabolic variables, colostrum and milk composition of primiparous sows
Authors: Farmer C. , Charagu P. , Palin M. F.
Published: April 2011

Composition of colostrum and milk in first-parity sows from four genetic lines, namely, synthetic Belgian Landrace/Pietrain (B), Duroc (D), Landrace (L) and Yorkshire (Y) were determined. Circulating concentrations of leptin, IGF-I, glucose and FFA were also measured in sows. Differences in colostrum and milk composition were observed between genotypes, but did not generally seem related to variables in blood. Colostrum and day-2 milk from D sows contained more protein (P < 0.05) and less lactose (P < 0.1) than that from sows of other genotypes. Results suggest that selection strategies to improve the composition of milk and colostrum of sows from European breeds could be a useful tool to increase their lactation potential. Key words: Colostrum, lactation, milk composition, sow
Nutritional value of diets for broiler chickens as affected by fat source, amylose level and diet processing
Authors: Zimonja O. , Stevnebø A. , Svihus B.
Published: April 2011

Two experiments were conducted to investigate effects of fat source, fat level, amylose level and processing technique on technical pellet quality and broiler performance. In both experiments wheat-barley-based diets were either pelleted or expanded and pelleted using the same production conditions. In exp. 1 soy oil and akofeed fat at inclusion levels of 25 and 50 g kg-1, respectively, were tested. Akofeed fat containing diets resulted in significant (P < 0.001) improvement in pellet durability compared with soy oil containing diets under both processing methods and both fat levels. As a consequence of higher content of amylose-lipid complexes, feeding the akofeed fat containing diets resulted in significant reduction (P < 0.05) of starch digestibility at jejunual level. In exp. 2, three barley cultivars with varying amylose content were tested. Total tract starch digestibility was higher (P < 0.0001) for normal amylose (NA) containing diets compared with low amylose (LA) and high amylose (HA) containing diets. In vitro results, however, showed highest starch degradation for LA diets compared with NA and HA diets, indicating that the in vitro method did not seem to be a good predictor of starch digestibility for broiler chickens. Key words: Starch; Barley; Amylose-lipid complex; Akofeed fat; Soy oil; Expander-pelleting treatment
The effect of fertilizing forage with sodium selenate on selenium concentration of hay, drain water and serum selenium concentrations in beef heifers and calves
Authors: Walburger K. J. , DelCurto T. , Pulsipher G. D. , Hathaway R. L. , Pirelli G. J.
Published: April 2011

The objectives of this trial were to determine the effect of fertilizing grass/alfalfa pastures with sodium selenate on selenium (Se) concentration of hay, drain water and serum Se concentrations in heifers and their calves. A 9.7-ha grass alfalfa hay field was split into four strips, two of which were fertilized with 10g Se ha-1 on 2002 Apr. 20. Hay was harvested from the field on 2002 Jul. 01 and 2002 Aug. 25. Drain water from the field was collected at monthly intervals from 2002 Apr. 20 to 2002 Aug. 20. Thirty-six first calf heifers in the third trimester of gestation were assigned randomly to one of nine pens and pens were assigned randomly to one of three treatments in a completely random design. Treatments were: (1) a basal diet of Se fertilized hay and a mineral mix containing 180 mg Se kg-1 (+Se hay +Se mineral), (2) a basal diet of Se fertilized hay and a mineral mix containing no Se (+Se hay −Se mineral), and (3) a basal diet of non-Se fertilized hay and a mineral mix containing 180 mg Se kg-1 (−Se hay +Se mineral). Blood samples were collected via coccygeal venipuncture at the initiation of the trial and at calving. Twelve hours after birth a blood sample was collected from each calf via jugular venipuncture. Selenium fertilization increased (P < 0.05) Se concentration in the hay 12-fold in the first cutting and fourfold in the second cutting. Selenium was only detectable in the drain water 1 mo after fertilization (0.55 µg Se kg-1). Intake of Se was greatest (P < 0.05) for +Se hay +Se mineral heifers, intermediate for −Se hay +Se mineral heifers, and lowest for +Se hay −Se mineral heifers. Serum Se concentration of heifers was greater (P < 0.05) in +Se hay +Se mineral than in +Se hay −Se mineral heifers. Serum Se concentration of calves was higher (P< 0.05) in the +Se hay +Se mineral, intermediate in +Se hay −Se mineral calves, and lowest in −Se hay +Se mineral calves. Fertilization with sodium selenate can be used as an alternative method to provide Se to beef cattle in geographic regions where Se supplementation is required. Key words: Beef cattle, selenium, supplementation, fertilization
Effect of intrauterine growth restriction on weight and cellularity of gastrointestinal tract in postnatal lambs
Authors: Gao Feng , Hou Xianzhi , Liu Yingchun
Published: April 2011

This study investigated the effect of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) during late pregnancy on weight and cellularity of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in postnatal lambs. Twenty-three Mongolian lambs were entered into the study. Their dams were mated at a synchronized estrus and divided into three groups offered 0.175 MJ ME kg-0.75 d-1 (Restricted Group 1, RG1), 0.33 MJ ME kg-0.75 d-1 (Restricted Group 2, RG2) and Control Group (CG, ad libitum access to feed) during their late pregnancy (90 d), respectively. The lambs were slaughtered at birth (neonatal lambs) and at 28 wk of age. The neonatal abomasum weight, jejunum weight and length, abomasum and jejunum DNA content, and the reticulum protein:DNA ratio were lower for RG1 than those of CG (P < 0.05). At 28 wk of age, there were no significant difference in the weights and lengths of jejunum and the weight of abomasum in the lambs among RG1, RG2 and CG (P > 0.05). However, the rumen and omasum weight, and omasum DNA content were lower for RG1 than for CG (P < 0.05). For the jejunum, the protein:DNA ratios in RG2 were significantly higher than those of CG (P < 0.05). These changes in the weight and cellularity of the GIT may have significant implications on postnatal growth and health. Key words: Intrauterine growth restriction, postnatal lambs, gastrointestinal tract, weight, cellularity
Net fluid and electrolyte losses in enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infected piglet small intestine upon perfusion with fumaric acid, zinc oxide, egg yolk antibodies or carbadox
Authors: Kiarie E. , Krause D. O. , Nyachoti C. M.
Published: April 2011

Intestinal segments (10 per piglet) prepared in four anesthetized piglets were used to evaluate the effects of anti-diarrhea agents on net fluid and electrolyte losses and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentrations upon infection with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). Pairs of segments (non-infected and ETEC-infected) were perfused with either saline, fumaric acid (FA), zinc oxide (ZnO), egg yolk antibodies against K88 fimbriae (EYA) or carbadox (AB) during a 7.5-h period. Segments perfused with saline had higher (P < 0.05) net fluid and electrolyte losses compared to segments perfused with anti-diarrhea agents whilst FA showed higher fluid losses compared to other anti-diarrhea agents. Key words: Anti-diarrhea agents, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, piglets
Feeding flaxseed to sows during late-gestation and lactation affects mammary development but not mammary expression of selected genes in their offspring
Authors: Farmer C. , Palin M. F.
Published: April 2011

Mammary gland composition and mammary gene expression were measured in pubertal gilts whose dam were fed a control (CTL) diet or a diet with a 10% supplement of flaxseed (FS) during late-gestation and throughout lactation. Parenchymal weight expressed as a percentage of body weight tended to be greater in offspring from FS compared with CTL sows (P < 0.1) and to contain less fat (P < 0.1). Offspring from FS sows had more parenchymal protein, whether expressed as a percentage (P < 0.05) or total amount in tissue (P ≤ 0.05), than offspring from CTL sows. No changes (P > 0.1) in mammary gland expression of the studied genes were observed with dietary treatment. Key words: Flaxseed, gene expression, gestation, mammary development, offspring, porcine
Effects of fibre content in pelleted wheat and oats diets on technical pellet quality and nutritional value for broiler chickens
Authors: Zimonja O. , Hetland H. , Lazarevic N. , Edvardsen D. H. , Svihus B.
Published: April 2011

Two experiments were conducted to study the effects of either soluble or insoluble fibre naturally occurring in wheat and oats, on technical pellet quality and nutritional value for broiler chickens. In exp. 1, the effects of insoluble fibre were studied by mixing diets based on wheat or naked oats with either coarse or fine oats hulls followed by pelleting. Hull inclusion increased (P < 0.05) starch gelatinisation, especially in the diets based on oats. Addition of finely ground oats hulls improved pellet durability, in particular after storage, while no such effect was observed for coarse oats hulls. Oats hulls inclusion caused a more elastic pellet with higher breaking resistance (P < 0.05). Lower (P < 0.05) energy consumption was observed for diets based on oats compared with wheat, while no effect of fibre inclusion on energy consumption was found. In exp. 2, the influence of pelleting on the viscosity effect of soluble fibres in diets based on wheat or oats was studied. A significant increase (P < 0.05) in intestinal viscosity of broiler chickens was observed for all batches of grain exposed to steam pelleting. Viscosity was doubled (P < 0.05) with wheat diets, while the increase in viscosity was even greater in oat diets. In wheat diets, feed intake and weight gain was reduced (P < 0.05), while feed conversion ratio was not affected. Steam pelleting of oats reduced (P < 0.05) feed intake and weight gain, and increased feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). The improvements (P < 0.05) in metabolisable energy and dry matter digestibility in wheat diets was not consistent with the observed increases in viscosity or with the results obtained with oats. Key words: Soluble fibres, insoluble fibres, viscosity, starch gelatinisation, steam-pelleting
Subcutaneous fat composition of youthful and mature Canadian beef: emphasis on individual conjugated linoleic acid and trans-18:1 isomers
Authors: Dugan M. E. R. , Rolland D. C. , Aalhus J. L. , Aldai N. , Kramer J. K. G.
Published: April 2011

A comprehensive evaluation of the fatty acid composition of subcutaneous adipose tissue from beef cattle produced in western Canada was undertaken to determine if the current Canadian grading system is able to distinguish classes of animals with value added potential due to their fatty acid composition. Grades included youthful Canadian Yield Grade 1 A/AA beef, under (YUTM) and over (YOTM) 30 mo of age and the four mature grades (D1, D2, D2 and D4). Subcutaneous fat between the 12th and 13th ribs over the longissimus muscle was obtained from 18–21 animals per grade. Fatty acids were analyzed using a combination of silver-ion HPLC and GC with a highly polar 100 m column. There were no differences in total trans-18:1 content amongst grades, but adipose tissue from grade D1, D2 and D4 had more 11t-18:1 than YUTM (P < 0.05), whereas adipose tissue from YUTM carcasses had more 10t-18:1 than all other grades (P < 0.05). Adipose tissue from YUTM carcasses also had less total CLA (P < 0.05) than the D grades, mainly due to a lower level of 9c,11t-CLA, but they had slightly more 7t,9c-CLA and 10t,12c-CLA (P < 0.05). Adipose tissue from YOTM and D grades contained more n-3 fatty acids relative to YUTM (0.56% vs. 0.29%; P < 0.05) and lower n-6:n-3 ratios (P < 0.05). Overall, older animals (YOTM and D grades) had adipose tissue compositions with higher levels of fatty acids with reported health benefits. Taken together, these higher levels may provide opportunities for value added marketing if regulatory authorities allow claims for their enrichment based on demonstrated health benefits. Higher concentrations of beneficial fatty acids, however, need to be considered within the context of the complete fatty acid profile and it would be important to demonstrate their advantages in the presence of relatively high levels of saturated fatty acids. Key words: CLA, trans, vaccenic acid, rumenic acid, beef, adipose tissue
Effect of dried distillers’ grains from wheat on diet digestibility and performance of feedlot cattle
Authors: Gibb D. J. , Hao X. , McAllister T. A.
Published: April 2011

In a 55-d backgrounding period, 120 (n = 22) British cross heifers (312 ± 20 kg) received diets containing 55% barley silage, 5% supplement and 0 (n = 24), 20 (n = 24), or 40% (n = 22) wheat distillers’ dried grains with solubles (DDGS). The remainder of the diet was steam-rolled barley. Replacing half (20%) or all (40%) of the barley with DDGS did not affect dry matter intake (DMI) (P = 0.61), average daily gain (ADG) (P = 0.86), or gain:feed (P = 0.94), indicating the energy content of DDGS is similar to that of barley when included in backgrounding diets. During a 133-d finishing period, DDGS were included at 0, 20, 40, or 60% of diet dry matter (DM) or at 60% plus additional calcium, provided as 1% limestone (n = 24). Additional calcium did not (P > 0.1) affect DMI, ADG, or gain:feed. Increasing levels of DDGS linearly increased (P = 0.001) DMI and reduced (P = 0.04) gain:feed and diet NEg content (P = 0.001), but had no effect on ADG (P = 0.20). Feeding 60% DDGS reduced (P < 0.01) DM digestibility as compared with the control. Wheat DDGS has similar feeding value as barley when included at 20% of diet DM, but digestibility and energy content decline with higher levels of inclusion. Key words: Beef, digestibility, distillers' dried grains, wheat
Effect of graded levels of wheat-based dried distillers’ grains with solubles on performance and carcass characteristics of feedlot steers
Authors: Beliveau R. M. , McKinnon J. J.
Published: April 2011

A trial was conducted to evaluate graded levels of wheat-based dried distillers’ grains with solubles (DDGS) on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of growing and finishing cattle. Two hundred weaned calves (290 ± 17 kg) were randomly assigned to 1 of 20 pens and fed one of five DDGS treatments. The barley grain-based control diet (0% DDGS) was formulated to 12% crude protein (CP) and 1.52 and 0.93 Mcal kg-1 net energy maintenance (NEm) and net energy gain (NEg) respectively, during the backgrounding period and 1.90 and 1.26 Mcal kg-1 NEm and NEg respectively, during finishing. Wheat-based DDGS replaced (DM basis) barley grain at levels of 8, 16, 24 and 32% during backgrounding and 6, 12, 18 and 23% during finishing. Over the 85-d backgrounding period, dry matter intake (DMI) (P = 0.02), average daily gain (ADG) (P = 0.04), and ultrasound (US) l. dorsi gain (P = 0.02) exhibited a cubic response to DDGS inclusion level with theoretical minima at 6.9, 8.1 and 6.9% DDGS, respectively, and theoretical maxima responses at 27.2, 30.8 and 23.9% DDGS, respectively. Feed efficiency exhibited a quadratic response (P = 0.02) to DDGS inclusion level with a theoretical poorest response at 13.1% DDGS. No effect (P > 0.05) of DDGS inclusion level was noted on ADG, DMI or feed efficiency (kg gain:kg feed; FE) during the finishing period. Similarly, carcass traits were not influenced (P > 0.05) by DDGS inclusion level. The results of this study indicate that wheat-based DDGS can serve as an effective replacement for barley grain in cattle diets supplying both energy and protein and that for finishing cattle, wheat-based DDGS has an energy value at least equal to that of barley grain when fed at levels up to 23% of the diet DM. Key words: Wheat-based dried distillers' grains with solubles, growing and finishing cattle, performance and carcass quality
Comparison of wheat-based dried distillers’ grain with solubles to barley as an energy source for backgrounding cattle
Authors: McKinnon J. J. , Walker A. M.
Published: April 2011

Replacement of barley grain with wheat-based dried distillers’ (DDGS) grain with solubles at 25 and 50% of the total ration dry matter increased average daily gain and gain efficiency of backgrounding steers. No differences in dry matter intake or composition of gain were observed. The results of this trial indicate that barley grain can be replaced by wheat-based DDGS at up to 50% of the diet dry matter in backgrounding rations without any adverse effects on cattle performance. The economics of feeding DDGS at these levels would depend on availability and price relative to barley and other cereal grains. Key words: Dried distillers' grain, beef cattle, feedlot, ethanol, by-products
The effect of grazing duration on forage quality and production of meadow foxtail
Authors: Wenick Jess J. , Svejcar Tony , Angell Raymond
Published: April 2011

For the past 50 yr, meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis L.) has been invading native flood meadows throughout the Harney Basin in southeastern Oregon. The expansion of this grass species has been the result of its broad climatic adaptation and ability to withstand drought while thriving in saturated soil conditions for a large part of the growing season. The growth of meadow foxtail starts as soon as adequate soil moisture exists. Managing this early-maturing hay species can prove to be a challenge because soil saturation and elevated water tables make it difficult to harvest hay when forage quality and yield are maximized. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether planned grazing would retard maturation and thus prolong forage quality. Treatments included a non-grazed control and grazing durations of 2, 4, 6, and 8 wk. Grazing was initiated in May of 1998 and 1999 on six replications of each treatment arranged in a randomized block design. Within each treatment/replication combination, ten 0.2-m2 plots were clipped to ground level at about 2-wk intervals from May to August. The samples were weighed and dried for standing crop estimation and 4 of the 10 samples were selected at random and analyzed for acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and crude protein (CP). We found that early spring grazing decreased forage yield significantly (P ≤ 0.05). Grazing tended to slow the seasonal decline in CP. The effects of grazing on the forage fiber components, however, were inconsistent. The relatively small increase in forage quality does not appear to compensate for the large decline in hay yield (a 40% decline in the shortest grazing duration treatment). We recommend that unfertilized meadow foxtail pastures be used for either haying or grazing, but not both in a given growing season. Key words: Grazing, beef cattle, regrowth, forage yield
The potential benefits, risks and costs of genetic use restriction technologies
Authors: Van Acker Rene C , Szumgalski Anthony R , Friesen Lyle F
Published: April 2011

Genetic use restriction technologies (GURTs) are designed to restrict access to genetic materials and their associated phenotypic traits. Originally GURTs were developed to ensure that new crop varieties could be protected against unauthorized use, but recently there has been interest in the use of GURTs to facilitate novel trait confinement. There is controversy over the potential use of GURTs in food and feed plant varieties. Considerable discourse exists amongst many groups representing both public and private, and government and non-government interests, about whether GURTs should be adopted based on the potential benefits versus the potential risks and costs. Potential benefits include intellectual property rights protection, stimulation of private crop breeding research and development, enhancement of genetic diversity in breeding programs, and novel trait confinement. Potential risks and costs associated with GURTs include intra- and interspecific escape of the technology, reduced access and increased cost of genetic material for breeders, increased regulation, liability risks in the event of GURT failure or escape, increased seed costs for farmers, further limits on access to novel genetic material for farmers, greater industrial control over agriculture, and a further decrease in agro-biodiversity. Although topical and controversial, the potential benefits versus the potential risks and costs of implementing GURTs are difficult to adequately assess because they are in the developmental stage and there has been no known field-based testing to-date. Until the results of peer-reviewed research on the environmental, social, economic and political impacts of GURTs are publicly available, no fair and useful assessment for the commercial release of the technology can occur. Key words: Genetic use restriction technology, plants with novel traits, genetically modified, genetically engineered, plant breeding
Acetyl salicylic acid alleviates chilling-induced damage in muskmelon seedlings
Authors: Korkmaz Ahmet , Uzunlu Murat , Demirkiran Ali Riza
Published: April 2011

Salicylic acid (SA) is a common plant-produced signal molecule that is responsible for inducing tolerance to a number of biotic and abiotic stresses. An experiment was, therefore, conducted to test whether acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) application at various concentrations through seed immersion or foliar spray would protect muskmelon [Cucumis melo L. (Reticulatus Group)] seedlings subjected to chilling stress. Twenty-one-day-old plants pre-treated with ASA (0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.50 or 1.0 mM) were subjected to chilling stress for 72 h at 3 ± 0.5°C. ASA, applied either through seed immersion or foliar spray, was effective within the range of 0.1 to 1 mM in inducing tolerance to chilling stress in muskmelon seedlings; however, there was no significant difference between application methods. ASA significantly and curvilinearly affected all seedling growth and stress indicator variables tested except shoot dry weight. The best protection was obtained from seedlings pre-treated with 0.5 mM ASA. The highest ASA concentration used was slightly less effective in providing chilling stress protection. Even though both methods provided similar means of protection, due to its simplicity and practicality, immersion of muskmelon seeds prior to sowing in 0.5 mM ASA would be a more desirable method to induce tolerance to chilling stress. Key words: Cucumis melo, aspirin, chilling stress tolerance, gas exchange, electrolyte leakage
The Biology of Invasive Alien Plants in Canada. 8. Lepidium latifolium L.
Authors: Francis Ardath , Warwick Suzanne I
Published: April 2011

The cruciferous weed Lepidium latifolium, perennial pepper-grass, is a relatively recent immigrant with a disjunct distribution in North America. Although first reported in the 1930s in Quebec and 1940s in Alberta, L. latifolium only started to attract attention as an invasive weed when it began to spread rapidly in the western parts of its US range in the 1980s, reaching British Columbia in the 1990s. Lepidium latifolium is a perennial weed of coastal wetlands, inland waterways, irrigation ditches, rangeland, hay meadows and waste areas, and tolerates saline/alkaline environments. Prolific seed production, rapid and substantial vegetative growth, creeping rhizomes with high storage capacity, potential for bud production at each node, and deep rhizome penetration have contributed to the widespread establishment of L. latifolium. Canopy height and density, combined with an accumulation of dead stalks in wetlands, has interfered with the regeneration of native plants and the habitats of birds and other animals, as well as hampering control of mosquitoes. In rangelands and pastures, L. latifolium can compete with native species and reduce forage quality. Lepidium latifolium has recently invaded agricultural crops such as cereal grains and alfalfa, and can contaminate hay shipments. Decaying litter may increase sodium content in surface soil, with a potential negative impact on salt-intolerant species. Lepidium latifolium has few natural enemies in North America. It has been partially controlled by flooding, intensive grazing, mowing and herbicides, but herbicides are of restricted use along waterways and in areas with native vegetation. Potential biological controls have shown little promise to date. Key words: Lepidium latifolium, perennial pepper-grass, perennial pepperweed, lépidie à feuilles larges, LEPLA, weed biology, invasive alien
Resistance to soil-borne diseases of wheat: Contributions from the wheatgrasses Thinopyrum intermedium and Th. ponticum
Authors: Li Hongjie , Conner R. L. , Murray T. D.
Published: April 2011

Eyespot, Cephalosporium stripe, and common root rot are soil-borne diseases that damage the stem bases, vascular system, subcrown internodes,and roots of wheat. Resistance in wheat to these diseases is insufficient to prevent significant yield loss when disease is severe. The wheatgrasses Thinopyrum intermedium and Th. ponticum are highly resistant to these diseases. Identification of disease-resistant wheat-Thinopyrum partial amphiploids, chromosome addition, substitution, and translocation lines makes them a valuable source of resistance genes for wheat breeding programs. Single chromosomes or chromosome segments containing resistance genes can be transferred into wheat to produce genetic stocks that afford a better understanding of the genetic control of resistance in wheatgrasses and new genetic resources for wheat improvement. Resistance to eyespot in Th. intermedium and Th. ponticum was associated with the homoeologous group 4 chromosomes, whereas resistance to Cephalosporium stripe was controlled by genes located on chromosomes 3 and 6 of Th. ponticum. Despite the fact that some eyespot- and common root rot-resistant wheat-Thinopyrum lines have blue kernels, resistance is not tightly linked to the blue aleurone trait. Key words: Thinopyrum intermedium, Th. ponticum, eyespot, Cephalosporium stripe, common root rot, Oculimacula yallundae, O. acuformis, Cephalosporium gramineum, Bipolaris sorokiniana
AC Cora hard red spring wheat
Authors: Townley-Smith T. F. , Czarnecki E. M.
Published: April 2011

AC Cora, hard red spring wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), exhibited high levels of leaf rust resistance and was adapted to the southern Canadian prairies. AC Cora produced significantly more grain yield than Neepawa (6.8%), Columbus (6.5%) and Roblin (7.4%), and slightly more (3.0%) than Katepwa. It matured significantly earlier than Columbus, slightly earlier than Neepawa and Katepwa and slightly later than Roblin. AC Cora was similar in plant height and lodging resistance to Katepwa. AC Cora was eligible for all grades of the Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat class. Key words: Triticum aestivum L., cultivar description, grain yield, leaf and stem rust