bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
333 Assessment of Spent Hemp Biomass as a Potential Feedstuff in Ruminant Diets
Authors: Parker Nathan , Ford Hunter , Bionaz Massimo , Trevisi Erminio , Ates Serkan
Published: October 2021

The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp (Cannabis sativa) from the Controlled Substances Act, classifying it as an agricultural product. The process of cannabidiol extraction from hemp yields large quantities of spent hemp biomass (SHB) that may potentially be included in animal diets. However, the use of SHB in animal diets has not been approved by FDA yet since its effect on animal health, production and product quality is still unknown. Thus, a feeding study was carried out to investigate the effects of varying levels of SHB and a four-week withdrawal period on feed intake and liveweight gains of weaned lambs. A total of 35 weaned, male Polypay lambs kept in single pens were randomly assigned to five feeding treatments (n=7) and fed diets containing either no SHB (CON) or SHB at 10% (LH1) or 20% (HH1) for 4 weeks with 4 weeks withdrawal from SHB, or SHB at 10 (LH2) or 20% (HH2) for 8 weeks. The nutritive analysis of the SHB indicated a high-quality feed, with 20% (DM) crude protein and 27% NDF. Dry matter (DM) intake of lambs was negatively affected by 20% SHB during the first period. In the second period, DM intake was larger in lambs fed 10% SHB vs. CON, with the largest feed intake observed in HH1 lambs. In contrast, none of the performance data, including liveweight gains, were different across the groups and periods. Feeding 20% SHB decreased plasma cholesterol, NEFA, BHBA, Ca, and Cl and increased urea and Mg, while 10% SHB increased glucose, cholesterol, and NEFA. Our findings indicated that 10% SHB can be included in ruminant diets without causing any detrimental effect on performance with a possible positive effect on feed intake. The long-term feeding of 20% SHB strongly affects the metabolism.
344 Replacing a High-roughage Receiving Diet with a High-energy Finishing Diet Improved Growth Performance and Feed Efficiency with No Impact on Health of High-risk Newly-received Calves
Authors: Crawford David M , Richeson John , Perkins Thomas L , Samuelson Kendall L
Published: October 2021

This study evaluated impacts of feeding a finishing diet throughout both the receiving and finishing period compared to a receiving diet with adaptation to the finishing diet on health, performance, ruminal pH, and rumination of high-risk feedlot cattle. Five truck-load blocks of steers and bulls (n = 400) were used in a generalized complete block design and assigned to receive: 1) finishing diet for the entire feeding period (FIN) or 2) receiving diet for the first 56 d, followed by transition to the finishing diet (REC). All cattle were consuming the same diet on d 74. A subset of cattle (n = 48) were randomly selected to quantify ruminal pH, temperature, and rumination time. Ultrasounds were completed on d 0, 74, and 146 to determine fat thickness. Cattle fed REC had greater (treatment × day; P < 0.01) DMI from d 1 to 67 but less DMI from d 74 to 82, and DMI did not differ from d 83 to 174. Energy intake (treatment × day; P < 0.01) was greater for FIN from d 14 to 75. Cattle consuming FIN had greater (P ≤ 0.01) ADG and BW and improved (P < 0.01) gain:feed from day 0 to 74. At d 174, BW of FIN was 9.6 kg greater (P = 0.02). On d 74, FIN had greater (P ≤ 0.05) fat thickness but did not differ (P ≥ 0.61) at d 146. There was no difference (P ≥ 0.31) in health outcomes. Ruminal pH (treatment × day; P < 0.01) was greater for FIN on d 2 and 61, and rumination time was less (P < 0.01) for FIN from d 0 to 28. Overall, these results suggest providing a finishing diet to high-risk calves upon arrival may be a viable alternative to a traditional receiving diet.
338 Nitrogen Use Efficiency Is Proportionally More Improved When Young Bulls Are Ranked on Residual Body Gain Rather Than on Residual Feed Intake
Authors: Lopez Pablo Guarnido , Marty Isabelle Ortigues , Gonzalo Cantalapiedra-Hijar
Published: October 2021

Animals with superior feed efficiency (FE) may also have an improved nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), which would be beneficial to economic profitability while reducing environmental impacts. When genetically selecting animals on FE, it is preferable to use residual traits [e.g. residual feed intake (RFI) or residual body gain (RG)] rather than ratios because of their predictable genetic outcomes. We studied the relationship of RFI and RG with NUE, estimated from the validated 15N abundance in plasma, across two contrasted diets based on corn or grass silages. We evaluated FE of 588 (half by diet) Charolais bulls (545 ± 57 kg BW) from 12 experimental cohorts (different farms and periods) over 200 days. Before the end of the FE test, plasma was sampled and analyzed for δ 15N. NUE was related to FE through simple-linear models with variables previously corrected for the cohort and diet effects. The models’ slopes were standardized according to FE deviation in order to compare the response of NUE to FE between indices. Higher NUE was related to higher FE (P < 0.001), showing positive correlations with RG (r=-0.40) and negative with RFI (r=0.29). However, the standardized slope of NUE to RG was significantly higher (+28%; P < 0.05) than that of NUE to RFI. This stronger NUE relation to RG compared to RFI could reflect a higher potential of RG animals to deposit N as compared to a more conservational N metabolism in RFI individuals. Regarding diets, and despite the correction of NUE and FE for this effect, the slopes of NUE to FE were numerically (P > 0.05) higher (-16% and +36%; for RG and RFI) in corn-based diets, which agrees with superior NUE observed in corn-vs-grass diets. Results suggested that superior RG animals may present proportionally higher NUE than superior RFI animals, with even better results in corn-vs-grass diets.
357 Effect of Energy Supplementation on Growth, Health, and Carcass Traits of Pasture-raised Lambs
Authors: Grev Amanda M , Schoenian Susan , Semler Jeffery W , O’Brien Dahlia
Published: October 2021

Energy is often the most limiting nutrient in pasture diets. The effect of energy supplementation on the growth, health, and carcass traits of pasture-raised lambs was investigated. Seventy-nine Katahdin ram lambs were delivered to the Western Maryland Research & Education Center on June 15. After an 11-d acclimation period, lambs were allocated to two treatment groups based on age, weight, birth type, and FEC. Lambs in the PASTURE group (n = 40) rotationally grazed 2 ha of high quality, mixed pasture for 102 d. Lambs in the SUPPL group (n = 39) grazed similar pastures and were hand-fed a daily energy supplement (450 g of whole barley). The groups were handled bi-weekly to determine body weights, FAMACHA©, BCS, and dag scores. Individual fecal samples were collected upon arrival and at two additional time points. Lambs were ultrasound scanned on Sept 25 to determine carcass traits. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS, with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05. ADG varied considerably among weigh periods. Standard deviations were typically quite large, indicating wide variation in individual performance. Overall, the SUPPL lambs had higher ADG (P < 0.01), more backfat (P < 0.03), and higher BCS (P < 0.01) than the PASTURE lambs. There were no statistical differences in starting weight, ending weight, and loin depth. While internal parasites were not a problem during the study (only one lamb had a FAMACHA© score >4), PASTURE lambs had lower FEC (P < 0.05) on August 17 (240 ± 81 vs. 468 ± 80 epg). The value of additional gain (0.9 kg) would not have covered the cost of feed; however, four lambs were removed from the PASTURE group (due to death or failure to thrive) whereas only two lambs were removed from the SUPPL group. The study will be repeated in 2021 with similar lambs and protocol.
364 Blood Profile of Kiko Does Raised on Grass-legume-mixed Pastures vs. Sole-grass Pastures During Fall
Authors: Tiwari Anand , Karki Uma , Norwood Kendra , Johnson Ja’Nia , Karki Lila B
Published: October 2021

Goats raised in pastures dominated with perennial grasses in the southeast United States commonly show poor health and performance. Addition of legumes to grass pastures may improve nutrient content and enhance animal performance. However, how legume addition to pastures would impact blood profile in goats has not been documented well. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of legume-grass mixed pastures on the blood profile of Kiko does. The study was conducted in fall 2020 using 10 fenced plots (average plot size: 0.44 ha). Five plots were sown to southern peas (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)-browntop millet (Urochloa ramosa L. Nguyen) 50:50 mix) and remaining five plots to sole browntop millet. Nineteen Kiko does (initial age 15–16 months and live weight - 34 ± 1.4 kg) were divided into two uniform groups: Group 1 and Group 2. Does in Group 1 were allocated to legume-grass plots and Group 2 to sole grass plots; they were rotationally stocked in their respective plots for 87 days. Blood samples were collected on Day 1 before allowing them to their respective plots, Day 47, and Day 87. Samples were analyzed for different cellular and metabolic parameters. GLM procedure in SAS 9.4. was used to analyze the data. Group-1 does had higher level of basophil, glucose, and blood urea nitrogen, but lower level of globulin concentration was significantly higher in compared to Group 2 (P < 0.05). Interaction effect of group and sampling date occurred for 21 variables (P < 0.05). Results indicated that addition of legume forage in pastures can alter blood profile of grazing goats. Further investigation on the impact of mixing legumes with grass pastures on animal performance, economics, and soil health will be helpful to understand the holistic effect of legumes on animal agriculture.
363 Relationship Between Parasite Load and Performance in Goat Kids at Weaning and Early Post Weaning
Authors: Adeyemi James , Andries Kenneth , Clement Emily
Published: October 2021

Goats are small ruminants that have enormous potential to boost the economy and be a major source of income especially to marginal farmers and landless laborers. A very common and economically important condition, which affects domestic livestock species worldwide, is Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism. Haemonchus contortus is the gastrointestinal parasite most common in small ruminants. To better understand the impact of GI parasitism, a study was conducted to research the relationship between parasite load and performance in goat kids at weaning and 60 d post-weaning. Fecal samples were collected at weaning and 60 d post-weaning and egg counts were performed using the modified McMasters technique. Data collected included weights, Fecal Egg Count at weaning, and at 60 d post-weaning. The average fecal egg count at weaning was 830 eggs per gram and 1103 eggs per gram 60 d post-weaning for H. contortus. Egg count at weaning was significantly related to weight at both weaning and 60 d post-weaning (P < .0001 and P = .0003 respectively), but not to ADG (P > .05). Fecal egg count at 60 d post-weaning was not significantly related to either weight or ADG (P > .05). Egg counts at weaning and 60 days post-weaning were not related (P = .0708). The results indicate that early parasite infection can influence animal weights. The lack of a significant correlation between egg counts at weaning and 60 d post weaning indicates a need to evaluate parasite load at later ages in kids when selecting for resistance.
474 Comparison Between Copper Sulfate and Dicopper Oxide on Body Weight and Copper Accumulation on Growing Pigs
Authors: Blavi Laia , Solà-Oriol David , Monteiro Alessandra , Perez José Francisco , Stein Hans-Henrik H
Published: October 2021

There are several Cu sources in the market that have different effects on pigs. We hypothesized that supplementing therapeutic doses of Cu(I)oxide (Cu2O) in diets for growing pigs improves body weight (BW), bone mineralization, and reduces Cu accumulation in liver than supplementing pigs with Cu sulfate (CuSO4). Two-hundred growing pigs (initial BW: 11.5 ± 0.98 kg) were randomly allotted to 5 dietary treatments. Dietary treatments included the negative control (NC) diet without Cu supplementation, and 4 diets in which 125 or 250 mg/kg of Cu from CuSO4 or Cu2O were added to the NC diet. The experiment was divided into 4 phases. Pig weights were recorded on d 1 and at the end of each phase. Eight pigs per treatment were sacrificed last d of phases 1 and 4 to obtain samples of liver, spleen, and the right metacarpal. Pigs fed diets containing 250 mg/kg of Cu2O had greater (P < 0.05) BW at the end of phases 1 and 2 than pigs fed the NC diet, and tended (P < 0.10) to have greater BW at the end of phases 3 and 4 than pigs fed the other diets. Copper accumulation in liver and spleen increased with Cu dose, but at the end of phase 1, pigs fed 250 mg/kg CuSO4 had greater (P < 0.05) Cu concentration in liver and spleen than pigs fed 250 mg/kg Cu2O. Pigs fed diets containing 250 mg/kg Cu2O had greater (P < 0.05) quantities of bone ash and greater (P < 0.05) concentrations of Ca, P, and Cu in bone ash than pigs fed the NC diets or diets containing CuSO4. Therefore, supplementing diets for growing pigs with therapeutic doses of Cu2O improves BW and bone mineralization with less Cu accumulation in liver compared with pigs fed diets containing CuSO4.
487 Student Opinions on Insect-based Protein Sources Within Companion Animal and Human Diets
Authors: Ange-van Heugten Kimberly D , Aker Savannah , Barbour Hope , Horne Destiny
Published: October 2021

The use of insect-based alternatives as protein sources for companion animal and human foods is a popular discussion area for university students. Many students are not familiar with industries that produce these protein sources or how they are included within diets. In the Spring 2021 semester, teaching assistants for Introduction to Companion Animals (ANS 105) and Companion Animal Management (ANS 400) surveyed students to determine their opinions on having their companion animals or themselves consume insect-based diets. The online survey required participants to watch one video and read one website briefly detailing the value of insect consumption. The survey focused on evaluating whether students in the freshman level ANS 105 class had different opinions on insect consumption from upperclassmen in ANS 400. ANS 105 enrollment was 50% animal science majors compared to 100% in ANS 400. When students were asked if they would consider feeding their companion animal an insect-based diet, the classes did not differ (P=0.843). For ANS 105 (n=96), 78 ± 4.2% would consider insect-based companion animal feeds versus 77±5.8% in ANS 400 (n=52). Similarly, the classes did not differ when asked if they would consider insect-based diet items for themselves (P=0.826). Only 42±5.0% of ANS 105 and 40±6.9% of ANS 400 would consider this option. However, student opinions differed (P=0.012) when asked if they would consider feeding their companion animal or themselves meat from domestic animals raised on insect-based diets. In ANS 105, 30±4.2% were less likely to purchase meat products raised with insect protein compared to traditional meats versus 12±5.8% in ANS 400. Students reported numerous reasons they were weary of insect protein including distaste, lack of research, perceived lack of nutrition, unknown GMO or organic status, and vegetarianism. Students within animal science classes would benefit from learning more about insect-based protein alternatives.
492 A New Approach to Teach Laboratory Sessions in an Online Environment to Undergraduate Introductory to Animal Sciences Course
Authors: Maquivar Martin G
Published: October 2021

Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, most of the universities across United States limited the amount of in person instruction. This brought a challenging situation in animal sciences courses that required laboratory sessions and hands-on experiences. There is not a real solution to replace the in-person labs, however several approaches can be implemented to overcome some of the challenges for laboratory sessions. Some of the on-line approaches implemented in an introductory class of Animal Sciences during the semester of spring and fall 2020 were live (synchronous) laboratory sessions (live interactions with animals, pre-recorded sessions of the laboratory session, and 360-degree videos of tours to the farms). The main objective of the present report is to assess the usefulness and feedback of these approaches to teach laboratory sessions to an undergraduate introductory animal science course. The official (Blue) university student responses in the course were used to determine the perception and feedback to these approaches. A total of 123 responses were recorded (Spring: 42/96, Fall: 81/174). Overall, no significant differences were observed in terms of the student perception. Overall, the responses were positive toward the laboratory sessions even in an online environment. During the spring semester 40/42 (95%), whereas in 72/81 (88%) strongly agree/mildly agree that labs help them to learn respectively. In terms of the videos used in class and labs, during the spring semester 35/41 (85%) and 68/81 (83%) strongly agree/mildly agree that labs help them to learn. In summary, the new reality due to COVID pandemic is very challenging for Animal Science courses that have laboratory sessions that involves hands-on experiences. Despite this, in conclusion some approaches can be implemented to still provide meaningful experiences to undergraduate students to support their learning and engagement in the introductory animal science course.
485 Opportunities Produced and Learning Outcomes Achieved Through a Design Thinking Approach to Problem Based Learning in an Animal Science Capstone
Authors: Wiegert Jeffrey G , Frenzel Leslie , Donaldson Jonan , Dunlap Kathrin , Paudyal Sushil
Published: October 2021

Incorporation of a design thinking approach to problem-based learning in an animal science capstone maximizes intellectual growth and critical reasoning while exposing students to relevant, current industry challenges. Briefly, students working within groups formulate a complex problem statement following facilitated interaction with statewide livestock commodity group stakeholders, then develop implementable solutions via utilization of a design thinking model. This course design structure allows students to demonstrate proficiency in multiple departmental learning objectives: implementation of effective animal management strategies, utilization of animal production systems to sustain economic resources, demonstration of critical thinking, effective communication across multiple mediums, preparation to engage in lifelong learning, and evaluation of socially responsible techniques to produce animal products. Pandemic based restrictions provided students the ability to attend face-to-face classes or work remotely. The capstone was simultaneously delivered on both platforms, but all assessments and feedback were provided online. Student experiences were evaluated weekly through group feedback prompts. Principal student-reported experiences include emergent themes of effective team building and collaboration, a deeper understanding of the value of quality scientific literature, a requirement to pursue in-depth thought to generate actionable solutions, and a desire to independently reach outside of the classroom to learn from other industry professionals. Student assessments prioritized the learning and revision process, with multiple opportunities to improve the synthesis, synopsis, formatting and mechanics of their work throughout the semester. The course concludes with student presentation of their complex problem solutions to a panel of industry stakeholders and department administration, faculty and graduate students. In conclusion, a capstone course utilizing a design thinking approach to problem-based learning effectively provides real-world learning opportunities for students to apply their content knowledge while expanding their universal skills of teamwork, communication, social responsibility and lifelong learning. This course also provides increased opportunity for student-stakeholder engagement.
491 Supporting Virtual Student Inclusivity
Authors: Siegford Janice
Published: October 2021

Since 2005, Michigan State University has offered an online graduate-level course in animal welfare assessment. The course was designed to overcome geographic barriers in terms of limited instructor expertise in welfare at individual universities and to reach an international student audience. Over 280 students have taken the course—including undergraduate, veterinary, and graduate students; practicing veterinarians; and professionals. Students have attended from 22 states and 13 different countries, including Thailand, Canada, Nepal, Kenya, China, and Australia. The course was designed and continues to be modified to accommodate students attending from different time zones, with different types of technology, and with different speeds and reliabilities of Internet access. An asynchronous format is used, with content delivered via short, recorded lectures and videos as well as electronically available textbook chapters and journal articles. In response to student and instructor needs, the course has evolved from a tech heavy but bandwidth intensive format to one using simpler technology and less bandwidth to reduce student barriers to participate and ensure equitable content access and engagement. Content is offered through the Desire 2 Learn course management system at MSU, which also performs accessibility checks of content. Lectures and videos are captioned to help accommodate visually impaired students or those in noisy environments and PDF handout versions of lecture slides are also made available. Rubrics and examples are used to guide completion of assignments. In 2020, the course was co-taught by MSU, Texas A&M and Virginia Tech. Several class meetings were held via Zoom to allow students to meet and interact with each other, though issues with scheduling prohibited all students from attending. Feedback surveys indicate students are generally satisfied with course content, delivery technology and interactions with instructors and peers. Creating an inclusive virtual environment requires attention to student constraints, with simpler typically being more accommodating.
PSX-B-20 Effect of shifting from forage to high grain diet on chewing, feed sorting and lying behavior of cows supplemented with or without a phytogenic additive
Authors: Castillo-Lopez Ezequias , Rivera-Chacon Raul , Ricci Sara , Reisinger Nicole , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: October 2021

The aim was to evaluate the effect of changing from forage to a high grain diet on chewing, feed sorting and lying behavior of cows supplemented with or without a phytogenic feed additive. Nine cows were blocked in two groups and used in a change-over design. Each experimental run consisted of one week of forage feeding, one week of diet transition, and four weeks of high grain feeding (65% concentrate). During the washout period of 10 weeks between the two runs, cows grazed on pasture. Cows were fed either a control diet (CON) or a diet with a phytogenic additive (PHY) based on menthol, thymol and eugenol. Data on chewing, feed sorting and lying behavior were analyzed using SAS with week of feeding and supplementation as fixed effects, and cow as random effect. Data across weeks from the same cow were processed using a first order variance-covariance structure matrix taking into account that the covariance decays with time. We found a reduction (P < 0.01) in rumination time by 53% with diet change. Within the high grain feeding, rumination reached lowest value in the second week (160 min/d). The high grain diet increased (P < 0.01) selection for long size particles by 20%. Although lying time was not affected immediately after diet change, it increased (P < 0.01) by 8% from the second week of high grain consumption. In the fourth week of grain feeding, there was a tendency for PHY to increase rumination (P = 0.07) and total chewing time (P = 0.10), but with no effect on sorting for fiber or lying time. The high grain diet decreased chewing and standing time, and increased sorting for fibrous ingredients especially after one week of feeding. The phytogenic feed additive may contribute to stimulate chewing in long term supplementation.
PSX-B-19 Behaviour of cows while being tested for methane emissions using the greenfeed system
Authors: Baes Christine F , Ritchie Gail , van Staaveren Nienke
Published: October 2021

Increased focus on sustainability is driving a need for environmental efficiency traits in dairy cattle breeding. Breeding for reduced emission of methane, an inevitable product of fermentation in ruminants, is increasingly being explored. Methods to measure methane emissions vary but can be impacted by cow behaviour. As part of an on-going project to develop genomic tools for breeding resilient dairy cows, we explored changes in cow behaviour over time during methane emission measurements. First lactation heifers (n = 49) were tested in tie-stall housing at a research herd in Ontario, Canada. Animals were tested over 5 consecutive days at 08:00h, 12:00h, and 16:00h each day for a 10-min period using the GreenFeed system (C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD, USA). The frequency of movement (body shifts and leg lifts) and the number of seconds the cow removed her head from the machine were recorded. The effect of day on the average frequency of movements or time the cow’s head was outside of the machine was assessed using a repeated measures model. In general, cows moved their legs the most on day 1 of testing (76 ± 5.0 movements per 10 min), after which it numerically decreased (e.g., day 5: 68 ± 5.0 movements per 10 min, P = 0.1110). A similar effect was observed for seconds the cow had her head out of the machine (P = 0.0650). Cows spent an average of 39 ± 5.7 sec with their head outside of the machine on day 1 versus 25 ± 3.6 sec on day 5 (P = 0.0499). These preliminary results suggest that cows adapt to the testing conditions; however, changes in their behaviour were minor and do not intervene with recording of methane emissions using the GreenFeed system.
PSXVI-19 Posture behavior and truck microclimate in a very long journey of unweaned dairy beef calves: A field study
Authors: Marti Sonia , Moles Xenia , Sole Anna , Farish Marianne , Brims Mark , Mitchell Malcolm , Voas Andrew , Devant Maria , Velarde Antonio
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to characterize posture behavior and truck microclimate of 2 to 8-week-old unweaned calves (59.1 ± 6.72 kg body weight) during 10 transports between December and September (one/month) from an assembly center in Dalry, Scotland to Northern Spain via a control post in Northern Ireland and an assembly center in France (Cherbourg). Average journey time was 105.8 h. A subset of 20 calves per transport were fitted with collars carrying a HOBO environmental logger (HOBO U12) to record the temperature and humidity at calf’ head level and an accelerometer (Axivity AX3) to record accelerations to assess the calf posture (resting, standing or in transition). Data were analyzed with JMP. During the transport, 60% of the time animals were standing, 28% of the time lying and 12% transitioning. Specifically, when the truck was in motion calves spent 82.8% of the time standing, when stationary 68.8% standing, when the truck was on the ferry standing time was 48.4% and at the control post and assembly center standing time was 45.1%.Transports from June to September (n = 4) had an average of 11.96 h (min: 5.17 h; max: 18.8 h) of temperatures greater than 30°C, an average of 25 h (min: 0 h; max: 55 h) of mild heat conditions (72 < THI < 79), and an average of 3.5 h (min: 0 h; max: 23 h) of moderate heat conditions (80 < THI < 89). The exposure to mild and moderate heat conditions occurred mainly during the time that the truck was stationary (waiting at ports) and when calves rested at the control post. Results from this study supports the need to evaluate the impact summer months journeys where animals spend over 30% of the time under heat stress, and the long-standing times on animal welfare.
PSXVI-18 Heifers are from Venus, steers are from mars: Sex differences in social behaviors in drylot housed brahman cattle exposed to a cattle brush
Authors: Lozada Claudia C , Toro Gustavo , Daigle Courtney L
Published: October 2021

Sex differences in cattle productivity and efficiency have been established, yet an empirical examination of how sex influences cattle social behavior in dry lots is absent. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of sex on the performance of social behaviors and brush use in drylot-housed Brahman yearling steers (n = 2 pens; 19 steers/pen) and heifers (n = 2 pens; 15 heifers/pen). Cattle were video recorded from 8:00 to 20:00 for 71 d, and to date, d 1 has been decoded using continuous observations. Video was decoded for social behavior for 15 minutes of every 30 minutes using continuous observations. Average bout duration (sec), total duration per day (sec), and bout frequency of allogrooming, bar licking, tongue rolling, and brush utilization were recorded for each pen. Frequency was recorded for headbutting and mounting. Data were normalized, and the differences between sexes for each behavior were evaluated with a t-test (PROC TTEST). Average bout duration, bout frequency, and total duration for allogrooming (P > 0.15), bar licking (P > 0.63), and brush use (P > 0.78) and bout frequency for brush displacement (P > 0.78) and headbutt (P > 0.76) did not differ between sexes. Heifers tended (P = 0.09) to perform more bunk displacements than steers (heifers: 94.5 ± 64.5 count/pen/d; steers: 29 ± 3 count/pen/d). Steers performed more mounts than heifers (P < 0.0001; steers: 2.5 ± 0.5 mounts/pen/d; heifers: 0 ± 0 mounts/pen/d). This preliminary evaluation suggests that sexes may differ in the prevalence and type of social behaviors performed while housed in drylots, yet inclusion of more data will confirm these early observations.
PSI-B-24 Assessment of the combined use of antibacterial substances on the in vitro model in the development of veterinary drugs
Authors: Sulimenova Zhanara , Plotnikova Yulia , Sizentsov Alexey , Barysheva Elena , Bibartseva Elena
Published: October 2021

The wide use of antibacterial drugs in the agricultural and veterinary industries as growth stimulants and antimicrobial therapies has led to increased resistance of pathogens and opportunistic pathogens to many chemotherapy drugs. The purpose of our study is to assess the additive effect of these compounds to enhance the inhibitory action of antibiotics. Antibacterial drugs of various chemical groups, extracts from medicinal plants with microbicide and anti-quorum effects, inorganic copper and zinc salts, as well as probiotic strains of the genus Bacillus of veterinary purpose, were used to achieve the goal. The main methodical approach to assessing the additive effect of complex compounds in the work was the method of diffusion into agar, combined with the method of serial dilution. The selection of antibacterial drugs was carried out using the disk diffusion method. S. enteritidis, S. typhimurium, and P. aeruginosa were used as the test organisms in studies. The main criterion for the selection of antibacterial drugs was the resistance of probiotic strains and the moderate sensitivity of the test organisms in relation to their action. Cefixime was experimentally selected for the study against S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium and Fosfomycin against P. aeruginosa. Of all the studied phytobiotics, the most promising for further study was the oak bark extract. Against P. aeruginosa, the most significant chemical compound is CuSO4 at a concentration of 40 mg/ml, which does not affect the growth of probiotic strains. The pronounced additive effect of the combined compound based on cefixime, oak bark, and B. subtilis 534 was observed against S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium by 23% and 25%, respectively. The combined use of fosfomycin, B. subtilis 534, CuSO4, and the oak bark extract increases P. aeruginosa growth suppression by 19 % compared to the control of the growth suppression of this antibiotic.
PSI-B-23 Assessment of genomic inbreeding in Russian local and commercial dairy breeds of cattle
Authors: Mishina Arina I , Abdelmanova Alexandra S , Dotsev Arsen V , Sermyagin Alexander A , Brem Gottfried , Zinovieva Natalia A
Published: October 2021

Drastic decline of population size of Russian local cattle breeds observed during last three decades has led to the decrease of genetic diversity. Due to the limited number of bulls used for artificial insemination, inbreeding in herds can be increased, which can lead to the decrease of reproduction capacity and adaptability of animals. Our aim was to assess genomic inbreeding in two Russian local cattle breeds, including Kholmogor (n = 26) and Istoben (n = 21). Two transboundary cattle breeds used for milk production in Russia including Holstein (n = 49) and Simmental (n = 38) were chosen for comparison. SNP genotyping was performed using the Bovine GGP 150K BeadArray (Illumina, CA, USA). After the quality control, 117591 autosomal SNPs were selected for analyzes. The degree of genomic inbreeding was assessed by calculations of inbreeding coefficient based on run of homozygosity (F(ROH)) and multilocus heterozygosity (sMLH). We found the strong negative correlations between the F(ROH) and sMLH values in animals of all of studied breeds (r2 = -0.805). The average F(ROH) values were 0.065 < mo >±< /mo >< /math >“>±± 0.003 for Kholmogor, 0.048 < mo >±< /mo >< /math >“>±± 0.006 for Istoben, 0.129 < mo >±< /mo >< /math >“>±± 0.007 for Holstein, and 0.102 < mo >±< /mo >< /math >“>±± 0.007 for Simmental breed. The sMLH values in Kholmogor, Istoben, Holstein and Simmental breeds varied from 0,99 to 1,076, from 0,829 to 1,102, from 0,890 to 1,069 and from 0,866 to 1,041, and averaged to 1.030, 1.013, 1.000, and 0.974, respectively. According to our research results, two studied Russian cattle breeds are characterized by lower levels of genomic inbreeding compared to transboundary cattle breeds. Our results will be helpful for developing the conservation programs for Russian Kholmogor and Istoben cattle breeds. The study was funded by the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education within theme No. 0445-2019-0024 and RFBR within project 19-316-90017 (the study of Kholmogor cattle).
PSVI-21 Fatty acid composition of blood lipids in lambs of different genotypes in ontogeny
Authors: Karpova Ekaterina , Chizhova Ludmila , Surzhikova Eugenia
Published: October 2021

The early period of postnatal ontogeny of sheep is characterized by a variety of metabolic processes that result in the formation and consolidation of a certain type of metabolism. A special role is played by lipids, which together with proteins and carbohydrates constitute the bulk of organic compounds, cells and the organism as a whole. The purpose of this research was to study the polymorphism of CAST and GH genes as well as its association with the fatty acid composition of blood plasma lipids in lambs. The content of fatty acids was determined by gas-liquid chromatography in the form of methyl esters. From the data obtained, it follows that in all studied ontogeny periods the peripheral blood of sheep with CASTNN and CASTMM genotypes had a higher concentration of fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic, linoleic, and arachidonic acids. The content is as follows: 27.58, 45.40, 3.16, 0.28% vs. 26.21, 45.31, 3.62, 0.18% at the age of 2 months; 25.07, 43.25, 6.05, 1.74% vs. 23.24, 38.76, 6.49, 1.32% at the age of 4 months; 20.64, 22.26, 14.17, 3.38% vs. 17.64, 19.91, 15.07, 2.46% at the age of 8 months (P ˂ 0.05), (P ˂ 0.01). Studies of blood lipid composition of GHBBand GHAA genotype carriers showed that palmitic, stearic, linoleic, and arachidonic acids were dominant: 27.95, 27.96, 19.04% vs. 26.08, 23.88, 17.56% at the age of 2 months, 46.87, 39.87, 22.37% vs. 3.24, 6.87, 15.56% at the age of 4 months; 0.45, 1.68, 3.81% vs. 0.29, 1.29, 3.19% at the age of 8 months (P ˂ 0.05), (P ˂ 0.01). Thus, this study emphasizes that there is a close relationship between the ratio of fatty acids in total blood lipids in lambs and the intensity of growth and development, ensuring and controlling the direction of biochemical processes in the growth and development of young sheep.
PSVI-20 Extent of genetic variation in feeding behavior and genetic associations with performance and feed efficiency in crossbred growing cattle
Authors: Kelly David N , Sleator Roy D , Murphy Craig P , Conroy Stephen B , Berry Donagh P
Published: October 2021

To the best of our knowledge, the genetic variability in feeding behavior, as well as relationships with performance and feed efficiency, has not been investigated in a cattle population of greater than 1,500 animals. Our objective was to quantify the genetic parameters of several feeding behavior traits, and their genetic associations with both performance and feed efficiency traits, in crossbred growing cattle. Feed intake and live-weight data were available on 6,088 bulls, steers and heifers; of these, 4,672 cattle had backfat and muscle ultrasound data, and 1,548 steers and heifers had feeding behavior data. Genetic (co)variance parameters were estimated using animal linear mixed models; fixed effects included test group, heterosis, recombination loss, dam parity, age in months at the end of test, and the two-way interaction between age in months at the end of test and sex. Heritability was estimated to be 0.51 (0.097), 0.61 (0.100), 0.44 (0.093), 0.48 (0.094), and 0.47 (0.095) for feed events per day, feeding time per day, feeding rate, feed event duration, and energy intake per feed event, respectively. Coefficients of genetic variation ranged from 0.11 (feeding time per day) to 0.22 (feed event duration). Genetically heavier cattle with a higher energy intake per day, and faster growth rate, had a faster feeding rate and a greater energy intake per feed event. Genetic correlations between feeding behavior and feed efficiency were generally not different from zero, however, there was a genetic correlation of 0.36 (0.11) between feeding time per day and residual energy intake. Significant heritable and exploitable genetic variation exists in several feeding behavior traits in crossbred growing cattle which are also correlated with several performance traits. As some feeding behavior traits may be relatively less resource intensive to measure, they could be useful as predictor traits in beef cattle genetic evaluations.
PSVIII-3 Genetic evaluation for Hereford breed in Kazakhstan
Authors: Bissembayev Anuarbek T , Kassenov Zhanat , Nazarbekov Altay , Seitmuratov Anuarbek , Zhali Saule , Shamshidin Alzhan , Abylgazinova Aizhan
Published: October 2021

For effective management of animal breeding, complete, high-quality and reliable information about an individual animal, about the population as a whole, is required. For breeding work, it is necessary to select breeding bulls, the offspring of which have high productivity. The selection of ancestors and offspring of bulls makes it possible to consolidate or consolidate these traits. The aim of the research is to improve the methodology for beef cattlegenetic evaluation. Material and methodology. Beef cattle genetic evaluation implemented by BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction). Mixed linear biometric models (AM / MME) were built for each assessed productive trait: Birth Weight, Weaning Weight, Milking at Calf Weaning, Yearling Weight. 74,868 animals of the Hereford breed. Percentages describe 5% and 10% share distributions of index values. The EPD values of live weight at birth in 90% of cases lie in the range from “-8.76” to “+18.21”; for live weight at weaning in the range from “-35.73” to “+42.83”; for live weight per year from “-51.45” to “+90.18”. The best and lowest EPD values are in 10% edge intervals relative to the entire set of calculated estimates. The proportional distribution of EPD accuracy in 2020 for the productive indicators of animals born in the period 2014–2020 of the Hereford breed have zero values up to 10%. The smaller number of fractions of non-zero values of the CPI accuracy indicates a more complete and qualitative filling of the database with productive indicators of live masses in recent years. In Kazakhstan, a method for calculating EPD by the BLUP AM method was developed with the construction of a genetic model of an animal and EPDs were calculated according to 5 productive indicators: live weights at birth, at weaning, at 12 months. age, adult animal (age 5 years) and milk production of cows.
PSXI-4 Genome-Wide association study for muscle visual score in Nellore cattle raised in pasture-based systems
Authors: Pedrosa Victor B , Machado Pamela , Martins Rafaela , Silva Marcio , Pinto Luis Fernando , Brito Luiz F
Published: October 2021

Visual scoring traits have been proposed as an alternative to evaluate body composition of Zebu cattle near the slaughter season when phenotyping technologies are not available. Considering the increased demand for high-quality animal protein in developing countries, there is a need to genetically improve body muscle (MUSC) in Zebu cattle (Bos taurus indicus), especially in animals raised in pasture-based systems. Therefore, our main objectives were to estimate genetic parameters, perform a genome-wide association study based on the single-step GBLUP approach (ssGWAS), and identify candidate genes and metabolic pathways related to MUSC in Nellore cattle. A total of 20,808 Nellore animals born between 2009 and 2018 were visually score at 18 months of age and 2,775 of these animals were also genotyped using the GGP-Indicus 35K SNP panel (33,247 SNPs after quality control). Heritability was estimated based on the REML approach and the model included the effects of age at measurement as covariable and the contemporary group (farm, birth season, management group and sex). The ssGWAS was performed using the BLUPF90 family programs. The identification of candidate genes was performed through the Ensembl database incorporated in the BioMart tool. MUSC is heritable (0.38) and can be improved through selection. Nineteen genomic regions (explaining 38.12% of the total additive genetic variance) located on BTA1, BTA7, BTA9, BTA16, and BTA21 and harboring 19 candidate genes were identified. The main genes identified were SEMA6A, TIAM2, UNC5A, and UIMC1, which are related to the metabolism of energy, growth, homeostasis and axonogenesis, and therefore, muscle development. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms over the gene expression of muscle visual score in Nellore cattle, and the polymorphisms located in these genes can be incorporated in commercial genotyping platforms to improve the accuracy of imputation and genomic evaluations for body and carcass traits.
PSXI-1 Influence of concentrations of essential and toxic elements in semen on qualitative characteristics of sperm of Holstein bulls
Authors: Platonov Stanislav , Zavyalov Oleg , Frolov Alexey , Kharlamov Anatoly , Kurilkina Marina
Published: October 2021

Many studies show that an excess or deficiency of chemical elements in an animal’s body can lead to a number of reproductive disorders. In this regard, the aim of this study was to assess the influence of concentrations of essential and toxic elements in semen on qualitative characteristics of semen of sire bulls. The studies were carried out on Holstein bulls at the age of 3–4 years (n = 65). Sperm concentration (billions) was estimated using a digital photometer (IMV Technologies). Sperm activity (score) was studied using a phase contrast microscope (Nikon ECLIPSE E400, Tokyo, Japan). The elemental composition of the semen was determined by 25 chemical elements (Al, As, B, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, I, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Si, Sn, Hg, Sr, V, Zn) by ICP-AES and ICP-MS. Coefficients were calculated according to Spearman’s correlation. As a result of the research, it was found that sperm activity negatively correlated (r = -0.47; P ≤ 0.05) with the Pb content in semen and had a positive correlation with Zn concentrations (r = 0.55; P ≤ 0.05); Se (r = 0.64; P ≤ 0.05); P (r = 0.67; P ≤ 0.05). Sperm concentration was positively correlated with Cu levels (r = 0.55; P ≤ 0.05); P (r = 0.76; P ≤ 0.05); Se (r = 0.66; P ≤ 0.05). Thus, the results of the carried out studies indicate a high degree of relationship between the content of essential and toxic elements in semen and main qualitative characteristics of sperm. A deeper study of the role of chemical elements in reproductive function can be useful in overcoming the problem of low reproductive capacity of sires. The studies were carried out in accordance with the research plan for 2019–2021. FSBSI Federal Research Centre BST RAS (No. 0761-2019-0006)
PSXII-6 Landscape genetics used to identify gene bank beef cattle collection completeness and gaps
Authors: Blackburn Harvey D , Paiva Samuel R , Hermuche Potira , McManus Concepta
Published: October 2021

Gene banks (GB) primary goal is to capture genetic diversity among livestock breeds. Genetic diversity assessments by US GB have used pedigrees and genetic markers. Landscape genetics (LG), is a third approach for evaluating germplasm collections and genetic resources. We evaluated the GB’s beef collection using LG for the purpose of assessing collection gaps/completeness by using geographic information systems. The current beef cattle collection contains 3,916 animals from 11 Bos indicus (including composite, BI), and 40 Bos taurus British (BTB) and Bos taurus continental (BTC) breeds. Each GB animal was georeferenced by latitude and longitude. In addition, county level satellite imagery of the continental US was obtained and included: temperature, humidity, precipitation, and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Temperature–humidity index (THI) was computed from temperature and humidity by county. In addition, USDA beef cattle statistics by county were used in mapping overlays. There was a high correspondence between in-situ cattle density and GB collection throughout the mid-west and extending to both borders. Evaluating genetic groups demonstrated that BI were derived from the Gulf Coast region, while BTB and BTC shared a distribution throughout the mid-west. The collection’s BTB were also sourced from the inter-mountain west. All environmental parameters were combined to identify similar environmental conditions where germplasm had already been collected. Through this process future geographies for sampling genetic groups were apparent. New collection areas should include the Great Basin, west Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Further BI collections should be performed in low THI score areas and BTB and BTC collections in high THI areas is needed. Using GIS/LG adds a new perspective and resolution for future collections to ensure cattle that are adapted to a particular environment are added to the collection.