bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSLBI-7 Coating extruded kibble with increasing levels of free fatty acids does not decrease palatability or impact e-nose odor profiles
Authors: Coon Craig N , McCracken Fiona B , Timlin Claire L , Fowler Jason W , Skaggs Patrick M , Dickerson Sarah M
Published: September 2024

Complete uncoated extruded kibble was coated with 5% by weight premium poultry fat (5,000 ppm Naturox, 0.57% FFA; Tyson, Springdale, AR) spiked with 0, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent free fatty acids (Oleic acid, Millipore Sigma. Burlington, MA), and 3% liquid chicken-based palatant (Tyson, Springdale, AR). Kibbles were then utilized in oral palatability (n = 20 dogs; 10 male, 10 female), aromatic palatability (n = 20 dogs; 10 male, 10 female), and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTG; n = 36 dogs; 18 male, 18 female). Kibble odors were by ultra-fast gas chromatography e-nose (AlphaMOS, Toulouse, France), and SPME GC-MS (MUMC, Columbia, MO). In the aromatic palatability trials, there were no significant differences in first approach (P ≥ 0.21), percent interaction time (P ≥ 0.16), or interaction ratio (P ≥ 0.94). In the oral palatability trials, there were no significant differences in first approach (P ≥ 0.26), first bite (P ≥ 0.50), percent consumed (P ≥ 0.15), or intake ratio (P ≥ 0.59). There was a significant increase in fat digestibility among diets coated with 20% FFA compared with the uncoated diet (P = 0.02), with intermediate diets showing a slight numerical increase but no significant difference. However, there was no significant difference in protein, carbohydrate, or dry matter digestibility (P ≥ 0.06). Principle component analysis of e-nose peaks showed minimal odor changes between samples (DI = -3). SPME GC-MS analysis identified 16 compounds correlated with FFA percentage (r2 ≥ 0.50). When used to coat kibble, poultry fat with up to 20% FFA did not appear to negatively impact palatability or overall odor profile, though it did modify specific volatile compounds.
PSLBI-5 Ruminal papillae morphology of beef on dairy heifers with abscessed or non-abscessed livers
Authors: Reis Beatriz Q , Sarturi Jhones O , Woerner Dale R , Johnson Bradley J , Rodrigues Barbara , Silva kaliu , Velasquez Taylee , Wilson Reese , Popellae Bharathwaj , France Otavio
Published: September 2024

The ruminal papillae morphology characteristics of feedlot beef on dairy non-spayed heifers with liver abscess to those with non-abscessed liver were evaluated. Heifers were sourced from 27 lots which were harvested on six dates between November 2022 and February 2023. Upon harvest, a total of 94 rumen tissue samples from animals presenting liver abscesses and 110 rumen tissue samples from animals with non-abscessed livers were collected in pairs, as abscesses were identified within the harvesting facility viscera inspection line, following a randomized complete block design (block = lot within harvest date). Individual fragments (6 cm2) from the cranial sac epithelium of the rumen were collected, rinsed with deionized water, immersed in 70% alcohol, and preserved under refrigeration (4 oC) until analysis. Ruminal tissues were trimmed (1 cm2), in which the number of papillae was counted by three trained personnel, followed by the removal of 12 representative papillae specimens for further area electronic scanning (The University of Texas Health Science Center of San Antonio, Image Tool) to determine average papillae area, number per cm2 (AVP), average papillae area in cm2 (APA), absorptive surface area in cm2/fragment cm2 (ASA), and papillae absorptive surface area, % (ASA). Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedures of SAS, with individual animal ruminal tissue used as the experimental unit, the fixed effect of ruminal condition, and the random effect of lot within the harvesting date. Average papillae number (P = 0.27), average papillae area (P = 0.74), absorptive surface area (P = 0.48), and papillae absorptive surface area (P = 0.43) were not affected by the presence of liver abscess. Severity of liver abscess distinguished as A -, A, or A+ scores compared with non-abscessed liver showed no difference on papillae number (P = 0.34), papillae area (P = 0.89), and absorptive area (P = 0.62). The presence of small or large liver abscesses did not affect the papillae area, size, or absorptive area (P ≥ 0.41). The liver lobe location of abscesses (cranial, caudal, both) did not affect (P ≥ 0.17) any of the ruminal morphological variables measured. The presence of liver abscesses, whether diffuse or localized, in beef on dairy heifers, did not affect (P ≥ 0.58) the development of ruminal papillae. The presence, severity, or location of liver abscess was not connected with ruminal papillae number, area, or absorptive surface area of beef on dairy heifers measured upon harvest time. The absence of ruminal papillae morphological changes in animals committed with liver abscesses may be further investigated with the characterization of potential cellular physical changes of the ruminal tissue and the integrity of the primary barrier in the digestive tract.
PSLBI-10 Effects of mid-gestational nutrient restriction on maternal and neonatal body weights in goats
Authors: Peel Jerome C , Dinegdie Gemechu , Ghnenis Adel
Published: September 2024

Gestational nutrient restriction increases the risk for metabolic dysfunction in maternal and fetal health and predisposes the offspring to metabolic disease later in life. This study examined the impact of the mid-gestational nutrient restriction on dams and neonatal body weight (BW) in caprine pregnancy. Pregnant Boer goats with similar BW and age were assigned randomly and fed either a control diet (CON: 100% NRC recommendations) or an NR diet (60% of CON) from 45 to 100 d of gestation and re-alimented to control diet until term (n = 15/group). Animals were weighed every 2 wk throughout gestation, and at birth, newborn BW of kids was recorded (newborn males and females were selected based on survival and birth type). Data were analyzed by mixed procedures of SAS, presented as means ± SE, and differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. During the nutrient restriction period, CON dams gained more (P < 0.001) BW than NR group (15.04 vs. 2.33 ± 2.9 % BW gain, respectively). There was a tendency (P = 0.07) for the group by sex effect on offspring neonatal BW. Male offspring from NR group tended to have lighter BW (3.79 ± 0.22 vs. 4.35 ± 0.22 kg, respectively) than controls. However, female offspring did not differ significantly (3.38 ± 0.21 vs. 3.16 ± 0.18 kg, respectively) from controls. These data show that changes in the mother’s body weight due to nutrient restriction at mid-gestation may have a sex-specific impact on goat neonatal weights.
PSLBI-9 The growth performance and total tract starch digestibility of finishing Nelore bulls fed flint corn-based diets are improved by the corn processing method and urea source
Authors: Fávero Igor Gomes , Santos Ana Carolina Oliveira , Rezende Gabriela D , de Oliveira Júnior José Maria , Souza Stefânia Priscila , Teixeira Priscilla , Martín-Tereso Javier , Batista Erick D
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the flint corn processing method (CPM) and urea source for finishing Nellore bulls fed corn-based diets. In this study, 80 Nellore bulls [initial body weight (BW) = 388 ± 45.7 kg] were allocated into 28 pens (7 pens/treatment; 6 pens with 3 bulls + 1 pen with 2 bulls). A completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to test two CPMs: dry ground corn (DGC) and reconstituted and ensiled corn (REC), and two US: feed-grade urea (FGU) and post-ruminal release urea (PRU). Dietary inclusion (% DM) of flint corn (vitreousness = 86.0%) was 61.3% (DGC or REC), and urea source addition was 0.5% as non-protein nitrogen (NPN; as FGU or PRU). The PRU source (Trouw Nutrition, Netherlands) contained 82% urea on a DM basis. In an in vitro assay, 27% of this urea was released into the rumen. Experimental period lasted 100 d (with 14 d of adaptation). Fecal samples from each bull were collected in two periods of three consecutive days (d 44 to 46 and 94 to 96) at different time (0600, 1200, and 1800 h). Samples were composited by pen and analyzed for fecal starch (FS) and indigestible NDF as markers for fecal excretion. At the end of the experiment, bulls were slaughtered and the jejunum and pancreas were sampled from one bull per pen. Interaction effects were not found (P ≥ 0.31) for any feedlot growth performance variables (Table 1). Final BW, average daily gain, and feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F) were greater for bulls fed REC and PRU than for those fed DGC and FGU (P < 0.02), respectively. As a result, observed dietary net energy (NE) for maintenance and BW gain were about 7.0% and 9.0% greater for bulls fed REC diets, and 4.3% and 5.6% greater for bulls fed PRU diets, respectively. Bulls fed DGC had 2.2 times greater FS compared with bulls fed REC, resulting in lower fecal pH and total tract starch digestibility (TSD) for bulls fed DGC compared with those fed REC (P < 0.01). Interestingly, a similar trend was observed in bulls fed PRU compared with those fed diets with FGU (P < 0.06). Jejunal gene expression of SLC5A1 was not affected by treatments (P > 0.14). Nevertheless, bulls fed diets with PRU presented greater jejunal α-amylase activity (P = 0.02). Pancreatic α-amylase activity was less when bulls were fed DGC + PRU diet. In conclusion, REC markedly improved TSD and growth performance compared with DGC. Additionally, independent of CPM, PRU inclusion as NPN source increased G:F and dietary NE concentration due to the positive effects on jejunal amylase activity and TSD.
PSLBI-3 The use of meloxicam oral suspension (15 mg/mL) to control post-partum pain and inflammation in dairy cattle following dystocia
Authors: Hanson Andrea M , Ralston Brenda
Published: September 2024

Dystocia is painful, given the increased time, tissue damage, and stress associated with handling and forced extraction. Around parturition, dry matter intake is reduced, and cows experience increased inflammatory mediators. This could lead to subsequent health issues, including an increased risk of metabolic disease, reduced reproductive performance, and decreased milk production. Controlling pain and disease are important for animal welfare so it is critical to alleviate dystocia pain and inflammation. The administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) could aid in alleviating the negative sequelae of dystotic parturition. Meloxicam (MOS) is an NSAID with greater oral bioavailability and inhibits cyclooxygenase, the enzyme responsible for converting arachidonic acid to prostaglandin. The reduction in prostaglandin, specifically prostaglandin F2α, resulting from meloxicam administration following a dystotic calving could minimize pain and control systemic inflammation. Objectives were: 1) to demonstrate post-partum administration of MOS in dystotic lactating dairy cows reduces pain (for up to 3 d) as measured by a significant reduction in plasma substance P expression levels (P < 0.05); 2) to demonstrate post-partum administration of MOS in dystotic lactating dairy cattle reduces inflammation (for up to 14 d) as measured by a significant reduction in plasma haptoglobin expression levels (P < 0.05); and 3) to evaluate the safety of administering MOS in post-partum dairy cattle, especially as it pertains to reproductive health. The study included dairy farms in three geographical areas in Canada, with nine farms and 145 cows. Primiparous and multiparous cows identified as having dystotic calvings were enrolled based on observation by the producer or study technician. Cows were randomly assigned to a treatment group of MOS or the placebo within each farm site. Animals received test or control treatment 0 to 12 h post-dystotic calving. The calving and treatment times were recorded. No analgesics was given before calving. Data collected included: 1) pain-related behaviors; 2) physiological markers of pain; 3) physiological markers of inflammation measured as acute phase proteins; 4) vulvovaginal inflammation; 5) physical evaluation including daily observations, body weight, rumination, blood and urinalysis, reproductive evaluation, time to first insemination and daily milk weights. The data are being evaluated and initial results show favorable responses to the treatment.
PSLBI-12 Screening and isolation of Fusobacterium necrophorum and Fusobacterium varium from seminal, and vagino-uterine microbiota of healthy cattle and sheep
Authors: Kilama Justine , Dahlen Carl R , Abbas Mina , Shi Xiaorong , Nagaraja T G , Amat Samat
Published: September 2024

Fusobacteria necrophorum is an important opportunistic bacterial pathogen associated with liver abscesses, foot rot, necrotic laryngitis and endometritis in both dairy and beef cattle. Recently, we identified F. necrophorum as one of the taxa in the uterine microbiota that are positively associated with pregnancy outcome in beef cows, and that Fusobacterium was identified as the most dominant genus in the bovine seminal microbiota. These findings indicate that Fusobacterium spp. may have a role in reproductive health and cattle fertility. Our objectives were to detect and isolate the F. necrophorum subsp necrophorum (FNN), F. necrophorum subsp. funduliforme (FNF) and F. varium (FV) in seminal, vaginal and uterine microbial ecosystems as well as fetal samples by culture and real-time PCR (qPCR) methods. The qPCR was performed on the DNA (n = 215) extracted from bull semen (n = 37), ram semen (n = 100), and vaginal (n = 25) and uterine swabs (n = 32), caruncles (n = 9), allantoic fluid (n = 6), and amniotic fluid (n = 6) from pregnant beef cows. The qPCR targeted the hgdA gene, and leukotoxin promoter regions (lktA-n and lktA-f) to detect and quantify FV, FNN and FNF, respectively. Cryopreserved samples (n = 174; 57 bull semen, 10 ram semen, 38 vaginal, and 47 uterine swabs) were cultured to detect and isolate FNN, FBF and FV by direct plating and after culturing in anaerobic peptone-yeast extract broth containing sodium lactate broth with josamycin, vancomycin and norfloxacin for selective enrichment of FN and FV. Also, 28 samples of 6-mo-old bovine fetuses caruncles, allantoic and amniotic fluids, and intestinal tissue) were screened for Fusobacterium species. By qPCR, FNF was detected in 75.7% of bull semen, and 8.0% of vaginal swabs as well as 33.3% of both allantoic fluid and caruncles, but was undetected in ram semen, uterine swabs, and amniotic fluids. Subspecies necrophorum was identified in 37.8% of bull semen, 3% of ram semen, 8.0% of vaginal and 15.6% of uterine 55.6 % of caruncles, 50% of allantoic fluid samples, but was not detected in amniotic fluid samples. Meanwhile FV was only detected in vaginal, uterine swabs and caruncles at 4%, 6.3%, and 11.1%, respectively. The culture method detected FNF in 63.2% of bull semen and 5.3% of vaginal samples, while FNN was identified in 1.8% of bull semen and 2.1% of uterine samples. F. varium was not isolated from any of the samples. Overall, FNF was the most prevalent subspecies present in the seminal microbiome of bulls. Identification of FNN subspecies and FV in seminal, vaginal, and uterine microbiota of healthy cattle, as well as in healthy calf fetus-associated samples suggests potential transfer from bulls to cows and then on to offspring, and potential involvement of the Fusobacterium spp. in cattle fertility.
PSLBI-28 Assessing the impact of a potential canine vaccine for the control of Chagas Disease
Authors: Fiatsonu Edem
Published: September 2024

Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease affecting 8 million people in the Americas. Chagas disease, a zoonotic infection transmitted by triatomine bugs, poses serious public health risks in endemic areas. As dogs are important reservoirs in the spread of the disease, developing a canine vaccine could be transformative for controlling disease transmission to dogs and humans. We developed a compartmental Susceptible-Infected model to simulate the transmission dynamics of Trypanosoma cruzi, considering interactions among dogs, humans, cats, rodents, and triatomine vectors. We used the model to assess the direct and indirect impacts of two vaccine mechanisms; all-or-nothing and leaky, on disease incidence across different host populations. The sensitivity of the model to changes in triatomine bugs feeding patterns on dogs was also analyzed to gauge the influence of vector behavior on canine vaccine effectiveness. Our model showed that with a 90% vaccine efficacy, an all-or-nothing vaccine could reduce the cumulative incidence of T. cruzi in dogs by 91.3% over 5 yr. The 60% and 30% vaccine efficacies would result in reductions of 63.47% and 33%, respectively, over 5 yr. Similarly, the leaky vaccine achieved a 92.62% reduction in dog infections over 5 yr with 90% efficacy. The indirect effects on human T. cruzi infection were notable; the all-or-nothing vaccine reduced human disease incidence by 14.37% at 90% efficacy, while the leaky vaccine achieved a 32.15% reduction over 5 yr. Both vaccine mechanisms may substantially reduce T. cruzi incidence among dogs, and generate indirect benefit to other hosts, such as humans, by reducing their infection risk. The indirect benefits of vaccination were heavily influenced by the proportion of triatomine bugs blood meals taken from dogs. The study highlights the potential of targeted canine vaccination in controlling Chagas disease transmission and burden in endemic countries. It provides additional evidence for pursuing the development of a canine vaccine as a valuable tool for Chagas disease elimination.
PSLBI-13 Characterizing the seminal microbiota in mature rams managed on divergent planes of nutrition, and in their male offspring
Authors: Kilama Justine , Holman Devin B , Bochantin-Winders Kerri A , Hurlbert Jennifer L , Baumgaertner Friederike , Schauer Chris S , Dahlen Carl R , Amat Samat
Published: September 2024

Increasing evidence suggests that the bovine semen harbors commensal microbiota, and it may be important in male fertility. However, much is unknown regarding the seminal microbiota, its evolution and factors shaping this community in sheep. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether managing the rams on divergent planes of nutrition can influence the seminal microbiota in mature rams and their male offspring. For this, Rambouillet rams (n = 24; 1.5 to 4 yr old) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1) a positive plane of nutrition [target 12% gain in their initial body weight (BW; POS, n = 8); 2) a maintenance [maintain the initial BW (MNT, n = 8)]; and 3) a negative [target a 12% reduction in BW (NEG; n = 8)] plane of nutrition over 84 d. The rams were individually housed and fed a common diet, and feed allocations were adjusted weekly. Following the 84-d feeding period, these rams were used to breed 240 mature Rambouillet ewes (1:10 ram:ewe ratio) over 28 d of breeding. After lambing, the male lambs were maintained on a similar diet for 124 d. Semen samples from the mature rams (F0 generation) were collected on d 28, 56, and 84, and semen samples from offspring rams (F1 generation) were collected at 330 d of age via electroejaculation. Genomic DNA was extracted from semen samples and the seminal microbiota characterized using 16S rRNA gene (V3-V4) sequencing. Several environmental and negative extraction controls were also sequenced to assess potential contaminants in these samples. Overall community structure of the seminal microbiota in F0 rams was not affected by the divergent planes of nutrition (PERMANOVA: P ≥ 0.05) or by sampling time (P > 0.05). Microbial richness (observed ASVs) was also not different (P > 0.05) between the three groups of F0 rams at any of the sampling time points; however, microbial diversity (P < 0.05) in the F0 rams was influenced by sire dietary treatment. Microbial community structure, richness and diversity did not differ among the POS, MNT and NEG F1 generation rams (P > 0.05). Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria and Fusobacteriota were the most abundant phyla. Only Bacteroidota abundance was significantly (P < 0.05) different between three F0 groups, with POS rams had greater (18.6%) of this phylum on d 28 as compared with MNT (2.1%) and NEG (5.1%). The predominant genera identified included Fastidiosipila, Corynebacterium, Trueperella, Arthrobacter, Dietzia, Bifidobacterium, Streptobacillus, Ornithinimicrobium, and Porphyromonas, and their relative abundance was not affected (P > 0.05) by the dietary treatment in F0 rams. Overall, rams managed on positive and negative planes of nutrition harbored similar seminal microbiota to control rams, and divergent nutrition also had no effect on the offspring ram seminal microbiota.
PSLBII-26 Butyrate receptor gene expression in myeloid cells of the lower porcine gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Becker Sage , Shircliff Adrienne , Loving Crystal
Published: September 2024

Butyrate is a microbial-produced metabolite associated with increased barrier integrity, enhanced mucosal immunity, and modulation of immune cell function. Butyrate driven immunomodulation occurs through a variety of mechanisms, including signaling via cell surface G protein-coupled receptors. Myeloid lineage cells serve as one of the first lines of defense during infection. Foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella, will circumvent host defenses by invading and then persisting within myeloid cells. Despite studies investigating changes in Salmonella infection when butyrate production is increased in the intestinal tract, the effect of butyrate on myeloid lineage cell function in the pig gastrointestinal tract is minimally characterized. A first step to understanding the ability of butyrate to modulate porcine intestinal myeloid-lineage cell function is to characterize butyrate receptor distribution within myeloid cells in the pig intestine. In situ hybridization (RNAScope) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues was utilized to determine mRNA expression patterns of butyrate receptors FFAR2, FFAR3, and HCAR2 in 10-wk-old pigs. FFAR2, FFAR3, and HCAR2 were expressed in pig ileum, cecum, and colon under basal conditions. Co-detection of protein and mRNA targets by immunofluorescence using confocal microscopy was utilized to investigate whether butyrate receptor genes were expressed in intestinal myeloid cells. Protein target IBA-1 and mRNA target SIRPA were used as markers for myeloid cells along with co-detection of FFAR2, FFAR3, or HCAR2. A subset of the myeloid cells in pig ileum, cecum, and colon expressed FFAR2, FFAR3, or HCAR2 under basal conditions. Further investigation is warranted to identify butyrate receptor expression on myeloid cells during infection, particularly cells infected with Salmonella. Identifying immune cells expressing butyrate receptors lends itself to improved utilization of butyrate to modulate porcine intestinal immune status.
PSLBII-17 Supplementation with organic versus inorganic selenium during pregnancy to support ewe and lamb health
Authors: Moran Nicole , Sadler Rebecka , Shandilya Umesh K , Karrow Niel A
Published: September 2024

Selenium (Se) is essential for optimal ovine health and production, and sheep raised on Se-deficient soils can be vulnerable to Se deficiencies that can affect immune function. Organic or inorganic forms of Se supplementation can remedy these consequences. While inorganic Se is less costly, organic Se is more bioavailable and may be more efficient in providing Se to ewes and lambs. The objectives of this study were to determine how organic versus inorganic Se supplementation affects ewe Se status, Se transfer from ewes to lambs, and the antibody-mediated immune response and dermal hypersensitivity response (DHR) of ewes and their lambs. Dorset-Rideau ewes (n = 100) were enrolled in a randomized complete block design study. From gestation d (gd) 110 to postpartum d (ppd) 50, ewes were fed either a Se-deficient diet and supplemented with no Se, 0.3 mg inorganic Se, or 0.3 mg or 0.6 mg organic Se. Sera were collected on gd 110, 130, 140, and ppd 10 and 50 to determine ewe Se status. On gd 110 and 120, ewes received an intramuscular injection of 0.5 mg ovalbumin (OVA) antigen, and on gd 130 the DHR to OVA was assessed by measuring change in skinfold thickness 0, 6, 24 and 48 h post intradermal injection. To measure the transfer of Se from ewe to lamb, a subset of lambs was euthanized at ppd 10, and longissimus dorsi muscle samples were collected and analyzed for Se content. On ppd 20 and 30, lambs received an intramuscular injection of 0.5 mg hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) antigen, and on ppd 40 the DHR to HEWL was assessed using the aforementioned protocol. Analysis of ewe sera showed a positive correlation between organic Se supplementation and greater Se concentrations (P < 0.01). Moreover, statistical analyses of the DHR results using a generalized least squares linear model (RStudio) indicate that Se supplementation increased the immune response compared with the non-supplemented ewes (P < 0.01). However, no significant differences between organic and inorganic Se supplementation were found. In lambs, greater ewe Se supplementation resulted in greater Se muscle content (P > 0.01). and organic Se supplementation to ewes significantly increased lamb Se muscle content compared with inorganic Se supplementation (P > 0.01). Finally, analyses of the lamb DHR showed that maternal organic Se supplementation improved the lamb immune response compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Therefore, organic Se supplementation optimally enhances ewe and lamb Se status and their adaptive immune response compared with the inorganic and control groups. This knowledge will guide optimal ewe Se-supplementation choices during pregnancy and postpartum, thus promoting lamb and ewe health.
PSLBII-8 Evaluation of the in vitro ruminal methane production in heifers fed high-forage or high-concentrate diets during entire pregnancy
Authors: Aryee Godson , Anderson Robin C , Caton Joel S S , Swanson Kendall C , Dahlen Carl R , Amat Samat
Published: September 2024

Ruminal methane (CH4) emission from cattle represents about 2 to 12% gross energy loss and is considered as one of the main contributors to the greenhouse gas emissions by the livestock industry. Recent multiple lines of research indicated that maternal gut microbiome may influence offspring ruminal CH4 emission phenotype via potential influence on fetal programming and transmission of methanogens from the dam to calf perinatally. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of altering maternal microbiota via feeding high forage (HF) and high concentrate (HC) diets during the entire gestation on the maternal ruminal CH4 emissions in beef heifers. For this, Crossbred replacement beef heifers (n = 61) bred with male sexed semen were randomly assigned into two groups and were fed either a high forage (75% forage:25% concentrate; HF, n = 29) or high concentrate (25% forage:75% concentrate; HC, n = 32) diet with limited feed intake to gain 0.45 kg/d during the gestation. Individual feed intake was monitored and body weight (BW) were measured bi-weekly and diet deliveries were adjusted to ensure the target BW gain. A subset of pregnant heifers (n = 10 per treatment group) was harvested at 180 d of gestation. Ruminal fluid was collected by stomach tubing on d 180 (20 heifers slaughtered), d 238 of gestation, and at the postpartum (within 3 h of calving). The ruminal fluid was placed in 15 mL falcon tube, kept in a warm thermos and immediate processing for the in vitro CH4 production assay. About 12.5 mL of ruminal fluid was placed into separate 120 mL serum bottles each containing 0.62g of feed (HC or HF diet) and 50 mL of McDougall buffer under CO2 infusion before the bottle sealed with stoppers. The cultures were incubated at 39 oC for 24h. Immediately after incubation, total biogas production, headspace CH4 concentration (using Gas chromatography), and pH of the 24 h culture was measured. Overall, the mean total volume of gas produced over 24 h was not statistically different (P > 0.05) between HF and HC heifers at any of the day measured, although it was numerically greater on d 238 (219 vs. 197 mL) and at postpartum (246 vs. 219 mL) in HC than HF heifers. Methane concentration in per milliliter gas was ranged between 13.3 and 16.3% but was not different between HF and HC heifers on any of the day evaluated (P > 0.05). Total volume of CH4 gas produced over 24 h was tended (P = 0.067) to be greater in HC heifers on d 238 (37.5 vs. 25. 7 mL). The culture pH from the ruminal fluid of HC heifers was less on d 238 (6.08 vs. 6.57) and at postpartum (P < 0.05). Overall, in vitro ruminal CH4 was not different in the ruminal fluid of HF and HC pregnant heifers.
PSLBII-10 Mitigation of sanitary challenge effects in growing pigs through extra supply of functional amino acids
Authors: França Ismael , Paulino Giulia Stephanie Cubas , da Valini Graziela Alves Cunha , Arnaut Pedro Righetti , Brandão Melo Antônio Diego Brandão , Marçal Danilo Alves , Brand Henrique Gastmann Gastmann , Htoo John K , Hauschild Luciano
Published: September 2024

Immune system activation alters the demand for amino acid (AA) supply, and amino acid-based nutritional strategies may mitigate performance reduction in pigs subjected to a sanitary challenge (SC). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of extra supplementation of a combination of functional amino acids (FAA, +20% Threonine, Methionine, and Tryptophan) preventively (pre-sanitary challenge), curatively (post-sanitary challenge) or both on the performance of growing pigs challenged with Salmonella typhimurium (ST) and poor housing conditions. Male pigs [n = 60; body weight (BW) = 21.7 ± 4,6 kg] were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments, with a basal AA profile fed throughout the experimental period (Control; NRC, 2012) or a functional AA profile (FAA+; +20% Trip:Lys, Tre:Lys, and Met+Cys:Lys) fed only before the SC (FAA Preventive), after the SC (FAA Curative), or throughout the experimental period (FAA Continuous). On d 0, after a 7-d adaptation period (d -7 to 0, pre-SC), all pigs were inoculated with ST (2 x 109 CFU/mL). Manure from a commercial pig farm was spread on the solid concrete floor, and the room was not cleaned during the experiment for 28 d (d 0 to 28, SC period). Pigs were housed in groups, and diets were supplied using 5 Precision Feeders. Body composition was determined using DXA on d 0 and 28 and protein and lipid deposition was calculated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, with diets considered a fixed effect and initial BW as a covariate. Each pig was considered the experimental unit, and means were compared using Tukey’s test. There was no effect of providing FAA before the sanitary challenge on performance, indicating that the control diet was adequate for the phase requirements. All pigs tested positive for fecal ST shedding. A 1.2°C increase in rectal temperature was observed on d 1 (P < 0.01), and rectal temperature remained elevated throughout the first week (P < 0.01). The control treatment had a higher rectal temperature than the preventive treatment (P = 0.02). There was an increase in serum haptoglobin on d 7 (P < 0.01). A reduction in albumin on d 7 and 28 compared with the pre-sanitary challenge period was observed (P = 0.02), and pigs in the control group had a greater value compared with the curative and continuous groups (P < 0.01). A heavier final BW (P = 0.02), daily gain (P = 0.02), and feed efficiency (P = 0.01) were observed in the continuous FAA treatment compared with the control, whereas preventive and curative FAA showed intermediate values (Table 1). Providing FAA through a combination of preventive period with curative supply during a chronic sanitary challenge was able to positively modulate the immune response and performance of pigs at the beginning of the growth phase.
PSLBII-22 Antioxidant potential and in vitro digestibility of two varieties of industrial hemp (cannabis sativa) supplemented in beef cattle diet
Authors: Ogunkunle Nathaniel , Yakubu Mariam , Simpson Monya , Boateng Judith
Published: September 2024

The use of industrial hemp in animal research is gaining much attention in recent years. However, there is little information known about the antioxidant potential and digestibility of different hemp varieties supplemented in cattle diet. The objective of this study was to determine the antioxidant potential and in vitro digestibility of different hemp varieties supplemented in cattle diet. Two varieties of industrial hemp were supplemented at 20 g in 200 g of commercial diet into Trt 1 (0 g of hemp), Trt 2 (20 g of sour kush variety) and Trt 3 (20 g of rogue variety) for in vitro digestibility study using Ankom DaisyII incubator. The experimental design was a 3 x 3 factorial design with 3 feed types and 3 digestion times (12, 24, 36 h). Rumen samples were used as inoculum with the recommended buffers for the DaisyII incubator. Total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu assay and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay respectively. Data were analyzed using mixed procedure in SAS 9.4, means were separated with Tukey at 5% alpha. There was no significant (P < 0.05) difference in antioxidant capacity and digestibility between the two varieties of industrial hemp. Likewise, no significant interactions was observed. Conclusively, the two industrial hemp varieties used in this study had similar antioxidant capacities and digestibility, thereby, similar benefits can be derived from supplementing any of these varieties in animal diet.
PSLBII-28 Effects of dietary protein manipulation on greenhouse gases and ammonia emissions from feedlot beef steers
Authors: Turcios Sebastian E Mejia , Anderson Sharissa , Klein Mathew , McCabe Conor , Zhao Yongjing , Pan Yuee , Cowles Kate , Hafla Aimee , Taylor Anna R , Kolath William , Mitloehner Frank M
Published: September 2024

Black Angus steers [n = 112; body weight (BW) = 401 ± 3.6 kg] were used in a randomized incomplete block design to evaluate the effects of 3 rumen available protein to microbial crude protein ratios (RAP:MCP) on growth performance, and gaseous emissions from feedlot steers. Steers were blocked by initial BW and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment rations. Diets were fed rations either Deficient (-150 gּ animal-1ּ d-1; DEF), Balanced (0 gּ animal-1ּ d-1; BAL), or Excess (+150 gּ animal-1ּ d-1; EXS) in RAP: MCP. Steers were allocated and housed in cattle pen enclosures (CPE), and treatment diets were delivered daily as a total mixed ration. The present study consisted of two 42-d periods. Refusals were collected weekly and BW every 14 d. Gas measurements were obtained daily in sequential order from all CPE. Data were analyzed with R statistical software (4.2.3). The linear mixed effect model procedure within the “lme4” package was used with CPE as the experimental unit, treatment and week as fixed effects, and block and period as random effects. A contrast coefficient matrix was constructed to test for linear and quadratic effects. Initial, intermediary and final BW were not different for steers receiving the varying RAP:MCP (P ≥ 0.239). A treatment effect (P = 0.004) was observed for mean dry matter intake (DMI) where EXS steers consumed 0.46 kg more DM compared with BAL steers, but DEF steers had similar DMI to those fed EXS and BAL (P = 0.189). Average daily gain (ADG) was only affected by treatment (P = 0.007) on d 0 to 14 where steers receiving DEF gained 0.6 kg more than those fed BAL (P = 0.010), but those fed EXS had similar ADG. Similar to ADG, gain to feed (G:F) was affected by treatment (P = 0.012) only during d 0 to 14. Mean CH4 production from steers fed DEF and EXS were 20% and 13% greater (P = 0.010) compared with those fed BAL, respectively; however, CH4 from EXS vs. DEF steers was not different (P = 0.149). Mean cumulative NH3 emissions increased linearly by treatment with EXS steers emitting up to 52% more NH3 compared with those receiving DEF (P < 0.001). Similarly, EXS steers had increased SO2 emissions by up to 44% compared with those fed DEF (P < 0.001). Emissions of CO2, N2O, and H2S were similar (P > 0.100). The manipulation of RAP:MCP in the diets of feedlot steers can drastically reduce NH3 emissions without affecting growth performance and may be a valuable tool to reduce air pollution from beef production systems.
PSLBII-1 Enhancing cattle health and performance through targeted supplement optimization and evaluation
Authors: Hanson Andrea M , Magotiaux Kyleigh , Ralston Brenda
Published: September 2024

Our objective is to evaluate and optimize Bovi-MV formulation through its effect on serum mineral/vitamin (M/V) concentrations in cattle and develop a systems approach to oral M/V supplementation through the lifecycle of beef cattle to determine the best management strategy to help reduce M/V deficiencies in young and mature animals. Cow/calf pairs (n = 300 over 2 yr) and follow the calves to harvest late in yr 2. The research is timed to coincide with typical management handling processes (e.g., vaccination of cows before calving and calf processing after birth, before pasture, at weaning time, on induction to the feedlot, and at reimplanting). The calf herd will be divided at birth into treatment (calves whose dams received BoviMV supplement) and control (~150 calves per group). Vitaferst-Care will be provided to the treatment group at processing (vaccination, antiparasitic application) before going to grass (~ 3 mo of age). Bovi-MV will only be given to the treatment group. All calves will be administered a tracer vaccine to assess their immune response. Blood samples will be collected from all calves for antibody titer testing at weaning (~ 6 mo of age). The treatment calves will also receive a booster dose of Bovi-MV at that time. Approximately 90 d after weaning (~ 9 mo of age) antibody titer will be determined immune response was. Calf morbidity, mortality, and performance (average daily gain) will be monitored in the feedlot. An accredited lab will conduct M/V blood analysis; antibody titer testing will be done at a Lakeland College lab. Based on MV and titer to the Bovi-MV supplement and tracer vaccine, the formulation of the Bovi-MV will be evaluated, and recommendations will be made. Based on results from two previous studies evaluating M/V blood concentrations in cattle (Neonatal supplement and Itchy Cow) in Western Canada, vitamin and mineral concentrations tended to be below optimum values, especially in herds provided supplementation free choice. All cows were deficient in vitamin A at calving, averaging 66.27 ± 2.51 ppb, with 50% having nondetectable concentrations. With vitamin E, 8 animals had nondetectable concentrations, only 8 had sufficient concentrations, and those with detectable concentrations averaged 3.16 ppm ± 2.17. Cows had sufficient iron ug/mL averaging 2.14 ± 1.02 and selenium ug/mL 0.09 ± 0.02. As Cheryl Waldner et al. (2023) reported, 24 to 43% copper deficiency is prevalent in cattle in the southern halves of the three prairie provinces. Armed with this information, this study is the first step in developing a systems approach to year-round management of the cow herd’s vitamin and mineral supplementation.
PSLBII-5 Impacts of residual feed intake measured as a heifer in drylot on mature cows and calves grazing native pasture
Authors: de Novais Francisco José , Bolen Hailey , Udeh Valentine , Lopes Sydney , Oloyede Temitope , Guan Leluo , Li Changxi , Basarab John A , Fitzsimmons Carolyn J , bork Edward
Published: September 2024

Selection for feed efficiency is crucial for improving economic and environmental sustainability in beef cattle production. Residual feed intake (RFIfat) is a commonly used measure of feed efficiency and is determined in a drylot setting by calculating the difference between observed and expected dry matter intake (DMI), where expected feed intake is adjusted for metabolic body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG) and body fatness. Lower RFIfat cattle are more efficient animals as they eat less than predicted for the same growth, body size and body fatness. Limited studies have been conducted evaluating the role of RFIfat on the subsequent performance of cow-calf pairs on native range. Kinsella Composite cows and calves (n = 120) grazed native pasture from July 11 to Sept 12 (summer) and from Sept 13 to Nov 2 (fall) of 2023 were included in this study. All dams had previously been evaluated for RFIfat as a heifer (8 to 12 mo of age) using the GrowSafe Feed Intake System (Vytelle, Canada). Cow and calf ADG were subjected to an analysis of covariance using lm function from stats R core package (R Core Team, 2024), with cow age (2 to 8 yr of age) as the fixed effect and RFIfat as the covariate, analyzing separately by season. An unbalanced Tukey HDS post-hoc were applied for age and p-values < 0.05 were considered significant. Weight gain was assessed on cows with an initial BW on pasture of 598.4 ± 68.4 kg, and 2 to 8 yr of age, and on calves having an initial on pasture BW of 106 ± 21.5 kg, and 65 ± 14 d of age. Cow age affected (P < 0.01) cow ADG during summer, with the youngest dams (2 yr old) gaining more weight than older animals (7 yr old; Figure 1A). No effect of RFIfat was found on cow weight gain during summer grazing. However, during fall grazing, RFIfat affected (P < 0.01) cow ADG (Figure 1B). Low-RFIfat cows (efficient) had increased weight gain during fall grazing as compared with high-RFIfat cows (inefficient: Figure 1B). Calf ADG was not affected (P > 0.1) by cow age, cow RFIfat and cow ADG during summer and fall. We conclude that cows with low RFIfat exhibited superior body weight gain, during fall grazing on native range when forage nutrient quality and quantity become limiting.
PSLBII-20 Estimation of genetic parameters for methane emissions and residual feed intake in Nellore cattle
Authors: Sainz Roberto D , Baldi Fernando S , Temp Larissa B , Ribeiro Luciano B
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to obtain (co)variance components, heritability, and genetic correlation estimates for enteric methane emissions, residual feed intake, growth, carcass and reproductive indicator traits. Data from 43 feed efficiency trials conducted over a 13-yr period on a single purebred Nellore herd in Central Brazil, comprising 3,400 intact males and 2,167 females, were analyzed. Trial data along with diet NDF content were used to estimate the methane emission (g CH4/kg carcass gain) for each individual, using an equation developed by Medeiros et al., 2014: CH4 (g/d) = -0.1011 + 0.02062*DMI (kg/d) + 0.001648*NDF (% of DMI). Other data included pedigree information, body weight (BW), carcass traits, and reproductive indicator traits. Continuous traits were analyzed using a linear animal model, and threshold traits were analyzed using a threshold animal model. Two-trait analyses were performed using the restricted maximum likelihood to estimate the variance components, heritabilities and genetic and phenotypic correlations among traits. The estimated heritability of methane emissions was 0.136 ± 0.0314. The genetic correlations of methane emissions with growth and carcass traits were low and not different from zero: BW at 450 d (0.064 ± 0.140), scrotal circumference at 365 d (0.188 ± 0.155), longissimus muscle area (-0.090 ± 0.132), 12th-13th rib fat (-0.122 ± 0.142), rump fat (0.080 ± 0.119), intramuscular fat % (-0.108 ± 0.152), BW at 210 d (-0.077 ± 0.168). By contrast, there were the low genetic correlation of methane emissions with early calving probability (-0.260; -0.504 – 0.026); moderate genetic correlations of methane emissions with age at first calving (0.519 ± 0.202) and DM intake (0.512 ± 0.116); and the high correlation of methane with residual feed intake (RFI; 0.832 ± 0.073). Thus, selection to improve weaning and yearling weights, and carcass traits would not affect methane emissions. Genetic selection to reduce methane emissions is feasible and would also reduce DMI and RFI, as well as female sexual precocity traits. Conversely, selection to improve RFI can be used to identify animals with decreased methane emissions. Medeiros, S. R, L. G. Baioni, A. Berndt, M. C. Freua, T. Z. Albertini, C. Costa Jr., e G. B. Feltrin (2014) Modeling enteric methane emission from beef cattle in Brazil: A proposed equation performed by principal component analyses and mixed modeling multiple regression. Proceedings, Livestock, Climate Change and Food Security Conference, Madrid.
PSVII-20 Effect of starch content in the concentrate of finishing bison on meat nutritional composition, quality, and palatability
Authors: Prieto Nuria , Lopez-Campos Oscar , Penner Gregory B , Ribeiro Gabriel O , de Almeida Maite , Moya Diego
Published: September 2024

According to the Saskatchewan Bison Association, in the last few years producers have not been able to fill the increasing demand for bison meat. Indeed, one of the main challenges faced by the bison industry is their ability to produce a consistent product in a relatively short period of time. Hence, it is necessary to optimize the productivity and profitability of feeding bison calves while ensuring the quality of the end product. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different starch contents in the concentrate of finishing bison on meat nutritional composition, quality, and palatability. Yearling bison bulls [n = 48; commercial Wood × Plains, 435 ± 13.4 kg body weight (BW)] were homogenously distributed into 12 pens (4 bulls/pen) based on BW, and each pen randomly assigned (n = 6) to receive either a high- [51.4% dry matter basis (DM); n = 24 bison bulls) or moderate-starch (25.8% DM; n = 24 bison bulls) concentrate, alongside free access to water and grass hay bales. After 156 d of feeding, bison bulls were slaughtered in a commercial abattoir in AB, Canada. At 3 d postmortem, color values were measured at the ribeye between the 11 and 12th ribs. Subsequently, striploins from the left carcass sides were collected, weighed, vacuum packaged, and transported under refrigeration conditions to the AAFC-Lacombe Research and Development Centre, AB, Canada. On d 6 of ageing, striploins were unpacked and weighed to measure purge losses, and pH was collected. Subsequently, six 2.5-cm thick steaks were obtained for further nutritional analyses (minerals, cholesterol, vitamin B3, protein, fat, moisture, and fatty acids), shear force, color in retail display for 4 d, and descriptive sensory and flavor profile analyses performed by trained panelists. The dietary starch content did not affect the nutritional composition as well as the pH, 3-d color values, moisture losses, and shear force value of the bison meat (P > 0.1). However, the high-starch concentrate increased the meat luminosity (L*) after 4 d in retail display (P < 0.05) and initial and overall tenderness (P < 0.001), and decreased the amount of perceived connective tissue (P < 0.001). Additionally, spongy and rubbery textures were less frequently found by trained panelists in meat from bison fed a high-starch than a moderate-starch concentrate (P < 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). Regarding meat flavor, the high-starch concentrate decreased salty taste (P < 0.05) and burnt and livery aromas (P = 0.071 and 0.069, respectively) but increased metallic flavor (P < 0.01) and bitter taste (P = 0.076). In conclusion, the starch content in the concentrate of finishing bison did not affect the meat nutritional value. However, some positive effects on meat color and palatability were found when feeding bison a high-starch concentrate.