bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSIX-11 Testing the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of brewer’s Yeast Extract on Macrophage Cell Lines in Vitro
Authors: De La Guardia-Hidrogo Vanessa M , Rummell Lindsey M , Asquith Thomas N , Nelson Erick R , Swanson Kelly S
Published: November 2023

Recent studies have demonstrated that brewer’s yeast may modulate gastrointestinal and immune health. Yeasthas been reported to contain bioactive components that possess anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in animal models, but source of yeast and processing conditions are unique to each product and require testing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of a novel brewer’s yeast product in response to a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge using two macrophage cell lines (Raw 264.7 cells; J774A.1 cells) in vitro. Once cells were stable, they were exposed to one of the following treatments for 24 h: sterile phosphate-buffered saline (placebo), brewer’s yeast extract (low dose or high dose), LPS only (positive control), and LPS + brewer’s yeast extract (low dose or high dose). Quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) was used to analyze relative mRNA production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1α and IL-1β) in response to the treatments. Statistical analysis was performed using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS, testing for the main effect of treatment. Significance was declared as P ≤ 0.05. As expected, LPS increased expression of IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1α and IL-1β to greater (P < 0.05) concentrations than that of the placebo and yeast treatments in both cell lines. The results also showed that brewer’s yeast treatment in RAW 264.7 cells led to greater (P ≤ 0.01) mRNA expression of IL-6, IL-1α and IL-1β during LPS challenge compared with control (LPS only) cells. In J774A.1 cells, brewer’s yeast treatments reduced (P ≤ 0.01) the mRNA expression of IL-1α and IL-1β during LPS challenge in a dose-dependent manner. However, no differences were observed in the mRNA abundance of TNF-α or IL-6 in J774A.1 cells. These findings suggest that the brewer’s yeast extract tested may possess anti-inflammatory effects in macrophage cell lines in vitro, although the responses varied across cell lines and yeast extract concentrations. Further research is needed to explore the potential applications of brewer’s yeast as an anti-inflammatory agent in the target animals of interest.
PSVIII-14 Improved Palatability and Digestibility in Dry Dog Food Using a Porcine Intestinal Mucosa Hydrolysate
Authors: Segarra Sergi , Dziedzic Boguslawa , Dziedzic Mariusz
Published: November 2023

A proper diet for a dog is one that provides all the required nutrients and is highly digestible. In order for the ingredients to be delivered to the organism, this diet should be highly palatable. Currently, research is being conducted on the possibility of introducing new sources of animal protein, thus replacing traditional meat meals. A new source of protein, together with increasing the digestibility and palatability of dry pet food while maintaining the price of the recipe, is an expected success. Porcine intestinal mucosa hydrolysate (PIMH) products are high-quality, sustainable, and inexpensive protein sources obtained from porcine intestinal mucosa as byproduct of the heparin manufacturing process. PIMH are being used as alternative protein sources in several animal species. The present study aimed to determine the effects of incorporating 3% PIMH (Palbio HP, Bioiberica SAU, Palafolls, Spain) as replacement for poultry meal on digestibility and palatability of dog dry food. The palatability test was conducted on a professional, independent panel of dogs. The test lasted 4 days with 20 adult dogs. Apparent digestibility and feces quality were also assessed in a digestibility test under the supervision of veterinarians in a 10-day experiment. The tested diets which serve as reference of a commercial dry dog food (Control diet) and a diet in which 3% PIMH was incorporated as replacement for poultry meal (PIMH diet). Palatability evaluation was performed in a two-pan setting in which first choice and consumption ratio were quantified and compared over four days. A Chi square test was used for the statistical analysis and a P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. An improvement in palatability was observed with the PIMH diet. More specifically, first choice results were greater during the four days of the study with PIMH (82%, 88%, 89% and 100%, respectively) compared with Control. Likewise, consumption ratio was also greater with PIMH over the four study days (84%, 87%, 86% and 93%, respectively). On the other hand, the PIMH diet showed a greater digestibility (77.98%) compared with the Control diet (73.95%), as well as a better feces score (0% unacceptable feces vs 4.2% in the Control group).In conclusion, using 3% Palbio HP PIMH in dry dog food as replacement for poultry meal leads to enhanced palatability and digestibility, while it has no negative impact on feces quality or diet costs.
PSVIII-17 In-Home Validation of a Canine Supplement Containing a Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Product
Authors: Gasper Julie , Norton Sharon A , Naqvi S Ali , Sardi Maria I
Published: November 2023

Controlled, evidence-based research studies are essential to ensure functional pet food, treat and supplement ingredients are efficacious. However, understanding how nutritional technologies influence pet health and well-being in the pet's home environment is an additional way to derive further insight on performance and effectiveness. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of supplemental Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) using subjective pet owner insights coupled with an analysis of fecal metagenomic characteristics in dogs using an in-home testing approach. Healthy adult dogs (n = 348; 170 males and 178 females; mean age = 6.0 y; mean BW = 18.2 kg) were recruited from across the U.S. and randomly allotted to one of two treatment groups blocked by breed, gender, age and BW. Owners were asked to feed their dogs their usual food, treats and supplements throughout the 60-d study. The SCFP was delivered in a daily chew. The control was a placebo chew void of SCFP (CON), and the treatment chew (EPI) was formulated to deliver 7 mg· kg BW-1· d-1 SCFP (EpiCor postbiotic, Ankeny, IA). Surveys were fielded on d 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 to obtain pet owner subjective ratings of supplement performance across key health attributes. Fecal sample collection kits were provided to respondents on d 0, 30 and 60 for shotgun metagenomic analysis. All statistical analyses were conducted in R v.4.1.2. Ordinal logistic regression using the package ordinal in R was conducted on the survey data to understand relationships between the predictor variables and the ranked outcomes. Metagenomic data were analyzed using phyloseq, vegan, lme4, LinDA and emmeans packages in R. Differences P < 0.05 were considered significant and P ≤ 0.10 as trends after FDR correction. Dogs receiving the EPI chew received numerically higher immunity ratings throughout the study and overall tended to be 95% more likely (P = 0.10) to receive a higher immune health rating versus CON. By d 60, EPI dogs were more likely (211% greater odds; P = 0.007) to exhibit less breath odor and 165% more likely to be less anxious (P = 0.02) than CON dogs. An increased relative abundance in butyrate producing taxa Anaerostipes hadrus (P = 0.002) and Megamonas (P = 0.001) and Fusobacteria (P = 0.004) were observed in EPI dogs emerging at d 30. Under the conditions of this study, daily supplementation of a SCFP supplement provided a spectrum of positive health outcomes in healthy adult dogs. Moreover, there was consistency in physiological benefits noted in previous controlled studies in healthy dogs fed SCFP to the owner-perceived changes in several health attributes in this study. Our data also suggest that SCFP may beneficially affect key indicators of breath odor and anxiety in dogs.
PSVIII-19 Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Product Modulates Blood Cell Counts and Gut Immunity in Healthy Adult Cats
Authors: Lin Ching-Yen , Norton Sharon A , Franz Nolan
Published: November 2023

Dietary Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP) has been shown to modulate immune responses in dogs and livestock. Information about feeding SCFP to cats, however, is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of SCFP (TruMune, Cargill, Inc.) on immune indices including fecal IgA, serum oxidative stress markers, and toll-like receptor (TLR) responsiveness in healthy adult cats. Sixty-three cats (mean age = 6.3 ± 2.8 yr; mean BW = 4.4 ± 0.1 kg) were used in a randomized complete block design. All cats were fed a control kibble diet without SCFP (CON) during a 21-day adaptation period. Cats were randomly assigned to one of the three diets including CON, a dry diet containing 150 mg/kg BW SCFP (TRUL), and a dry diet containing 300 mg/kg BW SCFP (TRUH) and fed for 42 days. Fecal samples were collected on days 0, 21, and 42 for fecal IgA analysis. Serum samples were collected on days 0 and 42 for measurements of serum chemistry, complete blood count, and oxidative stress markers. Whole blood samples were collected on day 42 for TLR responsive evaluation. Protocols were approved by the facility’s Institutional Animal Care and Use committee before the study. Data were analyzed using R v.4.1.2. Differences P < 0.05 were considered significant and P < 0.10 as trends. All serum chemistry and blood cell count values were within the reference ranges, with serum chemistry not affected by SCFP. Absolute cell counts of eosinophils and neutrophils decreased linearly with SCFP dose (P < 0.001) while absolute cell counts of lymphocytes and monocytes increased linearly with SCFP dose (P < 0.01). TLR responsiveness was not altered (P > 0.05) by SCFP. A tendency (P = 0.08) of quadratic treatment dose response was noted for thiobarbituric acids from the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay, with cats fed TRUL having the greatest thiobarbituric acid values. Fecal IgA showed a quadratic treatment dose response on day 42 (P = 0.01), with cats fed TRUL having the lowest fecal IgA values. These results demonstrate that SCFP may affect immune outcomes including blood cell counts and fecal IgA in adult healthy cats.
PSVIII-A-3 Activity Behavior and Growth Performance During Summer of Grazing Beef Heifers with Divergent Residual Feed Intake
Authors: Lasso Sergio , Londono-Mendez Maria Camila , Fitzsimmons Carolyn J , Bork Edward , Plastow Graham , Basarab John A , da Silva Gleise
Published: November 2023

Concerns about sustainability of beef production systems generate an interest in improved feed efficiency; however, there is a lack of research evaluating cattle activity budgets in response to the interaction between residual feed intake (RFI) and environment while grazing. Lying behavior and activity can provide insight into how animals interact with the environment and serve as an indicator of animal comfort. Furthermore, exposure to severe environmental factors can change behavioral patterns and impair animal performance. Therefore, this study evaluated activity budgets and performance in grazing beef heifers with divergent residual feed intake (RFI) during the summer season. From July to August 2022, forty-four crossbred beef heifers [358 ± 4.78 kg of body weight (BW); approximately 14 months of age] previously tested for RFI in drylot and classified as more (n = 21; LOW-RFI = -0.9 ± 0.70) or less feed efficient (n = 23; HIGH-RFI = 1.3 ± 1.00) were grazed at 2.72 AUM/ha over 7 wk in Alberta, Canada. IceRoboticTM pedometers (IceQube+) were used to track 24-hr heifer activity budgets [n = 43; total steps and lying and standing time (min/d and min/h) for 36 d]. Full BW was obtained on d -1, 0, 14, 28, 42, and 43 while fat scan on rib and rump were measured by ultrasound (Aloka 500 V diagnostic real-time) on d 0 and 42. Air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and solar radiation information were collected within 1 km of the grazed area to calculate the Comprehensive Climate Index (CCI). Based on CCI, weather conditions were considered to impose risk to cause mild, moderate, severe, and extreme stress for 5, 18, 7, and 1 days, respectively. For BW, average daily gain (ADG), rump (RF) and rib fat (RiF), the data were analyzed as a completely randomized design, while behavior activity included repeated measures. An RFI x day interaction was observed for lying and standing times (P = 0.02) and total steps (P = 0.001). Greater number of steps (P < 0.01) and an increased standing time (P < 0.01) were observed in HIGH-RFI heifers. RFI × hour interaction was observed for lying and standing times (P = 0.006), where LOW-RFI heifers spent more time lying at 10:00 am (P < 0.01). Furthermore, LOW-RFI heifers had decreased number of steps per hour throughout the study (P = 0.03; 178 vs 191 ± 4.1). No effects were observed for ADG, BW, RF, and RiF (P > 0.24). In summary, selected activity behaviors differed between beef heifers with divergent residual feed intake while summer grazing. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects of continuous changes in weather conditions to better understand the environmental impacts on animal behavior while selecting for more efficient beef cattle.
PSIX-29 Needs Assessment for the Use of Genomic Selection Within the Commercial Beef Sector
Authors: Herrick Allison L , Neibergs Holly L
Published: November 2023

Although purebred cattle producers have had genomic EPDs for over a decade, crossbred commercial beef cattle producers have not had the opportunity to use genomic selection for improvement of their cattle. This study aimed to identify what is needed to facilitate the adoption of genomic selection in crossbred beef herds through a survey of beef cattle associations in the western United States. Surveys were distributed electronically through state cattlemen’s associations in Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Nineteen individuals completed the survey representing predominantly cow/calf operations (68%), followed by stockers (9%), feedlots (5%), raising of replacement heifers (5%), and a seedstock producer (5%). Most beef producers (74%) had heard about genomic selection, but only 26% had utilized genomic selection. Of those who had previously used genomic selection, most (60%) were cow/calf producers. Those using genomic selection had done so to identify superior animals (33%), to select replacement heifers (25%) or to identify calf parentage (17%). The use of genomic selection to reduce or manage financial risk or to choose AI bulls for mating selection could expand the value of genomic selection for the beef producer while increasing the rate of genetic improvement in their herd. Interests and concerns regarding genomic selection were also identified, which can be utilized to identify areas of extension and outreach that need to be improved for the technology to be adopted and used more effectively. Key topics needed for genomic selection to be adopted were confirming that genomic selection resulted in a positive return on investment, being able to confidently interpret genomic EPDs, learning how to fully use the genomic EPD results, and information regarding the accuracy of the genomic selection results. The potential for genomic selection within the beef industry is immense, and this survey confirmed that extension programs on genomic selection use have the opportunity to be beneficial to commercial beef producers throughout the industry to improve the genetics of their herds while reducing their financial risk.
PSIX-25 Impact of Performance Parameters on Sale Price of Bulls at the Southwest Virginia Bull Test Sale
Authors: Craun Hannah , Greiner Scott P , Mercadante Vitor R G R G , Vidlund Trinity
Published: November 2023

Agriculture is the largest private industry in Virginia, generating around $82 billion annually and making up almost 10 percent of the Gross Domestic Product of the state. Within the agriculture sector, cattle and calves are the second most economically important commodity. The extension-supervised bull tests provide a partnership in the state that allows producers the opportunity to gather financially important management information while providing large amounts of production data for research and summary purposes. The Southwest Virginia Bull Test in Wytheville, VA has been in operation for 44 consecutive years. To qualify for entry, registered bulls must meet minimum EPD requirements (top 70%) for yearling weight or terminal indices of their breeds, have recorded EPDs within a breed association, and be certified healthy and free of genetic defects. The top 2/3 of each breed on test is sold at the end of the 112-d test period. To sell, all bulls must pass a breeding soundness exam (BSE) and have a minimum scrotal circumference of 32 cm for bulls less than 15 months and 33 cm for bulls 15 to 18 months of age. Genetic data including black coat color and polled/horned are also evaluated. Post-weaning data including age, weight, average daily gain, weight per day of age, hip height, frame score, BSE metrics, claw score, foot score, scrotal circumference, and others are collected while at the test station. A retrospective study was performed to establish what has a significant (P < 0.05) effect on sale price. Statistical analysis was performed on sale data from 2018-2022 using SAS. Over this time, 265 senior bulls (birth dates from September 1st-December 31st) were sold with an average sale price of $3,377. Variables significantly related to sale price included calving ease EPD percentile rank (P = 0.0077, r =-0.16), birth weight EPD percentile rank (P = 0.0049, r =-0.17), weaning weight EPD percentile rank (P = < 0.0043, r= -0.17), and yearling weight EPD percentile rank (P = 0.0060, r = -0.17) along with test average daily gain (P = 0.0013, r = 0.198), WDA (P < 0.0001, r = 0.50), and final scrotal circumference (P < 0.0001, r = 0.28). These results may be used to better understand selection priorities among bull buyers and to assist in the design and delivery of educational programs for beef producers.
PSII-16 Comparison of Two Methods of Inoculation of Continuous Culture Fermentors Fed Different Diets
Authors: Andreen Danielle , Mercier Kelly , Soder Kathy J , Ganda Erika
Published: November 2023

This study assessed how methods of inoculating continuous culture fermentors with rumen particulate digesta affected in vitro fermentation. A 4-unit, single-flow fermentor system was used in a 4x4 Latin Square with treatments arranged in a 2x2 factorial design. Dietary treatments were 1) a corn-silage-based total mixed ration (TMR) diet; and 2) an orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) and ground corn-based (ORG) diet balanced to support similar levels of milk production. Within each diet, two inoculation methods were used 1) direct addition of particulate digesta (32 g) into the fermentor vessel (-S); or 2) blending an equivalent quantity of particulate digesta with 0.5 L of rumen liquid for 2 minutes, straining through two layers of cheesecloth, and adding only the strained liquid to the vessel (-B). All fermentors were inoculated with identical total quantities of rumen liquid (1.5 L). This resulted in four treatments, ORG-S, ORG-B, TMR-S, and TMR-B, which were randomly assigned to fermentors with 7 d of treatment adaptation and 3 d of sample collection. Effluent samples (24-h composite) were collected on d 8-10, composited by fermentor within period, and analyzed for volatile fatty acids (VFA), and organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) for determination of nutrient digestibilities. Data were analyzed using a mixed model with period and treatment as fixed effects, and fermentor as a random effect. Preplanned contrasts were used to compare the effect of inoculation method within each diet, and the interaction between inoculation method and diet. Apparent OM digestibility was 16% greater in ORG-S compared with ORG-B (P < 0.01), whereas no effect of inoculation method was observed in the TMR diet (P = 0.36), which resulted in an interaction of diet and inoculation method (P < 0.01). Concentration of total VFA was greater with direct addition of particulate digesta in both diets, though there was a significant interaction of diet and inoculation method (P < 0.01) due to a greater increase in VFA in the ORG diet (34%; P < 0.01) compared with TMR (10%; P = 0.01). Crude protein digestibility tended (P = 0.06) to be greater in ORG-S vs. ORG-B, whereas inoculation method did not affect CP digestibility in the TMR diet (P = 0.58). Inoculation method affected methane production (mmol/d) only in the ORG diet; total methane production was 58% greater in ORG-S compared with ORG-B (P < 0.01), whereas methane production was not different in TMR-S vs. TMR-B (P = 0.76), leading again to an interaction of diet and inoculation method (P = 0.04). In general, adding particulate digesta directly to fermentor vessels increased feed degradation and methane production in the ORG diet, but had a lesser effect in the TMR diet.
PSIV-23 Activity Classification of Grazing Cows on Desert Rangeland in the Southwestern United States
Authors: Perea Andres Ricardo , Macon Lara , Rahman Sajidur , Chen Huiying , Cox Andrew , Nyamuryekung’e Shelemia , Madrid Sara Campa , Cao Huiping , Cibils Andrés , Estell Rick , Duff Glenn C , Utsumi Santiago
Published: November 2023

Monitoring cattle on rangelands is a daunting task that can be improved by using wearable sensors that are capable of transmitting motion and position data in real time and at low cost. This study tested the performance of machine learning (ML) classifiers to discriminate among foraging activities of cows based on triaxial accelerometer data collected in real-time by LoRa WAN networks. Trials were conducted at the New Mexico State University Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center and the USDA Jornada Experimental Range in Doña Ana County, NM. A total of 24 Brangus, Brahman, Raramuri Criollo and Angus x Hereford mature cows fitted with LoRa WAN tracking collars housing GPS and triaxial accelerometers were monitored across four periods during the 2022 summer and fall seasons on desert rangeland pastures. Trackers integrated and transmitted activity count (Ac) data from accelerometers at one-minute intervals. Video recording of focal cows (n = 24) was undertaken during daylight hours (0630 to 2000 h) from a distance of ~30 m to minimize interference with natural behaviors. A total of 168 hours of video were recorded and inspected by an experienced observer to label video files according to a classification tree of four main activities: grazing (GR), walking (WA), resting (RE) and ruminating (RU), and two states: active (AC) or static (ST). Individualized activities and states were considered when cows performed the same predefined activity or state for more than 30 secs. Retrieved sensor data from collar trackers were labeled by state and activity according to labels collected from video records. This classification resulted in a dataset containing 9,222 events, including 3,928 for GR, 2,286 for WA, 2,032 for RE, and 976 for RU, as well as 6,214 labels for AC and 3,008 labels for ST. Deep learning through Multilayer Perceptron Classifiers (MLPC) were coded and implemented using a split configuration of 70% of the data for training and 30% for testing, respectively. In preliminary runs, models had reduced ability to properly discriminate among RE (F1 = 0.42) and RU (F1 = 0.43) Thus, RE and RU were merged on subsequent tests, resulting in 3,928 labels for GR, 2,286 labels for WA, and 3,008 labels for merged RE. Deep learning models successfully classified between AC vs. ST behavior with an overall F1 performance score of 0.96. Further use of the same deep learning models successfully classified among GR, WA, and RE activities with an overall F1 performance score of 0.91, suggesting satisfactory application of the trained models to monitor cattle grazing activities on desert rangeland.
PSVIII-29 Nutritional Epigenetic Modifications in Beef Cattle
Authors: Gibril Mumuni , Behrouzi Amir , Fitzsimmons Carolyn J
Published: November 2023

Nutrition of the beef cow during pregnancy influences fetal development and potential changes in phenotype. On average 9 to 10% of the beef cattle herd are below the optimal body condition score of 2.5/5 at both pre-breeding and pregnancy tests, indicating potential nutritional stress during gestation. Epigenetic modifications are reported to regulate the changes in phenotype due to maternal nutrition during gestation. Our objective was to evaluate the influence of maternal nutrition during gestation on possible epigenetic mechanisms regulating development and biological function in Longissimus dorsi (LD) and Semimembranosus (SM) muscles, and liver (LV) at slaughter in steer progeny born from dams fed two different planes of nutrition during gestation. We also wanted to explore if the genetic potential of the offspring for residual feed intake (RFI) would interact with prenatal maternal diet to have differential effects on these epigenetic mechanisms. Purebred Angus steer calves (n = 23) were born from dams which were fed a diet formulated for an average daily gain (ADG) of either 0.5 or 0.7 kg/d from 30 to 150 days of gestation. Mating was designed so that calves were born from parents with differential genetic potential for high or low RFI. Calves were raised together as per normal industry standards and fed to be slaughtered as finished steers at approximately 512.1 ± 10.1 days of age. One approximately 10 g sample each of LV, LD, and SM muscles was aseptically collected within 30 to 45 min post-mortem and snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and subsequently stored at -80°C. Both DNA and RNA were isolated from the tissue samples and investigated for differences in methylation and gene expression, respectively. Fifteen potentially differently methylated regions (DMRs) in the DNA were measured using EpiTYPER MassARRAY technology, while expression of genes corresponding to the potential DMRs was measured by the nCounter Element Tagset by NanoString technologies. Average methylation across each DMR as well as gene expression within each tissue was profiled using principal component analyses (PCA). Distinct clustering was seen within both DNA methylation and gene expression PCAs such that the two muscles were clustered together and were separate from DNA methylation and gene expression measured in LV, representing expected functional variation due to tissue type. Between LD and SM, methylation patterns in the two muscles overlap, while there is much less overlap in gene expression patterns. This implies that the methylation pattern between the two muscle types is relatively similar compared with their patterns in gene expression, and that smaller differences in DNA methylation may lead to relatively larger differences in gene expression. These analyses are an important first step to interrogate the quality of our data that will be further analyzed for responses to maternal diet treatment and selection for genetic potential for RFI.
PSVIII-28 Effect of Replacement Dietary of Animal Protein with Insect Meal (Hermetia illucens) on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Profile, Gas Emission, and Fecal Microbial in Weaned Pigs
Authors: An Jaewoo , Chang Seyeon , Song Dongcheol , Cho Hyunah , Park Sehyun , Jeon Kyeongho , Cho Jinho
Published: November 2023

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of defatted and hydrolyzed forms of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens; HI) larvae as fishmeal substitutes in the diet of weaned pigs on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profile, gas emission, and fecal microbial. The 48 4-week-old weaned pigs [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] with an initial body weight (BW) of 9.39 ± 1.02 kg were randomly assigned to a completely randomized three dietary treatments. Each treatment had 4 replicate pens, and 3 pigs were assigned to each pen. The three treatments were as follows: 1) a basal diet (CON), 2) a basal diet without a fish meal and substitute with defatted HI powder (T1), and 3) a basal diet without a fish meal and substitute with hydrolyzed HI powder (T2). The experiments progressed in 6 weeks. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) among the treatment groups in BW, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and feed efficiency during the entire experimental period (Table 1). At 2 wk, the CON and T1 groups increased (P < 0.05) crude protein (CP) digestibility compared with the T2 group (Table 2). The CON group had greater (P < 0.05) CP digestibility than the T2 group at 6 wk. At 6 wk, the T1 group showed a tendency for greater gross energy (P = 0.095) than the T2 group. The T1 group had greater (P < 0.05) lysine digestibility than the CON group at 2 wk (Table 3). Also, The T1 and T2 groups showed a tendency for greater (P = 0.070) glutamic acid digestibility than the CON group. At 6 wk, the T2 group increased (P < 0.05) lysine, arginine, and methionine digestibility compared with the CON group (Table 4). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) among the treatment groups in blood profile and gas emission (Table 5 and 6). The T2 group had significantly greater (P < 0.05) lactobacillus counts than the T1 group at 4 wk (Table 7). In conclusion, it was found that the defatted and hydrolyzed forms of HI as a substitute for a fish meal did not negatively affect growth performance, blood profiles, and gas emissions. Also, the defatted and hydrolyzed forms of HI could improve nutrient digestibility and lactobacillus counts, which are beneficial bacteria in the intestine. Therefore, it is considered that the diets of weaned pig containing defatted or hydrolyzed HI has sufficient potential to replace fishmeal, which is an existing animal protein source in the diet.
PSVII-16 A Method to Analyze the Vertical Acceleration of the Peruvian Paso Horse for Animal Breeding Purposes
Authors: Vilela Jorge L , Quintana Paola
Published: November 2023

The Peruvian Paso Horse (CPP in Spanish) is an equine local breed in Peru. In this kind of horse, the smoothness and harmony of its movement come from the combination of the mechanisms of movement during the “paso llano” and the correct degrees of execution of the overreach with the adornments. The Peruvian Paso horse is internationally recognized for the smoothness of its gait, which is known as "the smoothest riding horse in the world". This characteristic is evaluated in breed competitions. However, at this time, there is no measure available to determine the smoothness of the gait objectively, relying solely on the perception of the judge during the evaluation. The objective of this research is to analyze the vertical acceleration of each animal (ai) during the “paso llano” gait in CPP. Sixty-five stallions and sixteen mares were measured through video recordings using a camera with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 megapixels at 30 frames/s. The animals were pulled by an operator at a “Paso llano” with an approximate speed between 2.5 and 4 m/s. The gait of the horse was recorded by filming on a tripod with a fixed position positioned horizontally at 1.3 meters height and 12 meters from the middle of the line of motion. To identify the reference point for measuring, a 4 x 4 cm tape was attached to the left side of the croup. KINOVEA software version 0.9.5 (https://www.kinovea.org/) was used to analyze the vertical acceleration every 33 ms. The digitized coordinates are passed through the Butterworth filter at a cutoff frequency computed by estimating the autocorrelation of residuals and finding the frequency yielding the residuals that are the least autocorrelated. The filtered dataset corresponding to this cutoff frequency is kept as the result. A graphical representation can be seen in Figure 1. Root-mean-square (RMS) for each horse was calculated as follows: RMS = √(∑ a2i / n), (ai with i = 1 . . . n). To determine normality assumptions, the Anderson-Darling test with P > 0.05 was applied. To determine if there is a difference between sexes, an ANOVA with P < 0.05 was applied. Levene's test was applied to determine the equality of variances. The descriptive statistics are presented in Table 1. The Anderson-Darling test obtained P = 0.969, therefore, the assumptions of the normal distribution are fulfilled. Levene's test obtained a P = 0.035, therefore, the assumptions of equal variance between sexes are not met. ANOVA with heterogeneity correction Welch was P = 0.891. The results show that there is no difference in vertical acceleration between males and females. The estimation of RMS allows an objective analysis of the smoothness of gait in the CPP and can be used as a selection criterion in selection for breeding plans.
PSVII-12 The Effect of Two Supplemental Vitamin E Dosing Strategies in Morgan Horses with Marginal/Deficient Concentrations of Serum Alpha-Tocopherol
Authors: Ballard Catherine , Jensen-Vargas Emily , Lassell Karen , Dobbins Samantha
Published: November 2023

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant for normal neuromuscular function in horses. Dietary deficiencies are common in northern climates with seasonal access to pastures. Certain breeds, such as Morgan Horses, with predisposition to equine metabolic diseases, may exhibit deficiencies in vitamin E because of management systems imposed which restrict access to pasture. Few studies have compared strategies for initial supplementation to increase serum alpha-tocopherol in horses. The objective of this study was to compare two dosing strategies of d-alpha-tocopherol acetate to increase serum alpha-tocopherol in marginal/deficient horses. Eight Morgan horses (two geldings, six mares; mean BW = 460 kg) with marginal/deficient serum alpha-tocopherol (0.47-1.12 µg/mL) were enrolled in a randomized block design study. Blocks were balanced for age, sex, and pre-study vitamin E level and horses were assigned to one of two treatments: 1) HIGH - 10,000 IU liquid d-alpha-tocopherol acetate top-dressed on grain for 4 wk followed by 10 d step-down to 5,000 IU of powder d-alpha-tocopherol acetate through 16 wk; or MEDIUM – 5,000 IU of powder d-alpha-tocopherol acetate for 16 wk. Horses were housed in box stalls with daily turnout without access to grass. Horses were fed hay at 2% of BW and 0.45 kg of concentrate daily with vitamin E feed activity of 45.5 and 1378 IU/kg, respectively. HIGH and MEDIUM treatments were fed once daily with the AM feeding. To ensure horses consumed the powder d-alpha-tocopherol acetate, cookies made from alfalfa powder, gelatin and d-alpha-tocopherol acetate powder were created. Serum alpha-tocopherol was assessed pre-feeding every two weeks from 0 to 16 weeks. Before the step-down to 5,000 IU dose, horses receiving the HIGH dosage had greater concentrations of serum alpha-tocopherol (P < 0.01; Figure 1). All horses receiving the HIGH treatment attained serum alpha-tocopherol concentrations greater than 2.0 µg/mL after 2 weeks, while only one-half of horses receiving the MEDIUM dosage reached serum alpha-tocopherol concentrations greater than 2.0 µg/mL by 4 weeks. To attain and maintain normal concentrations of serum alpha-tocopherol, deficient horses should follow the HIGH supplementing strategy of d-alpha-tocopherol acetate.
PSX-23 Effects of Partial Or Total Nitrogen Replacement of Soybean Meal with Urea on Intake, Digestibility and Nitrogen Balance in Growing Nellore × Red Angus Bulls
Authors: da Silva Julia Travassos , de Filho Sebastião Campos Valadares , Pucetti Pauliane , Cidrini Fernando Alerrandro Alerrandro Andrade , de Souza Gilyard Angelo Angelo Pinheiro , Hollerbach Lucas G , Gandra Livia Moreira , Swanson Kendall C
Published: November 2023

In feedlot systems, feeding non-protein nitrogen sources, such as urea, instead of true protein sources, such as soybean meal (SBM), could be an alternative way to reduce dietary costs. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of partial or total replacement of SBM by urea on feed intake and apparent total-tract digestibility of organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP), and on nitrogen (N) balance in bulls. Four Nellore × Red Angus crossbred bulls (292 ± 14.6 kg BW) were randomly assigned to treatment in a 4×4 Latin square design. The experimental treatments consisted of different replacement levels of SBM by urea (DM basis): 0% replacement (R-0%); 54% replacement (R-54%); 78% replacement (R-78%); 100% replacement (R-100%). Diets were formulated according to the BR-CORTE system to provide approximately 130 g CP/kg DM. The diets consisted of 20% corn silage and 80% ground corn-based concentrate containing SBM and/or urea+ammonium sulfate, mineral mix, and virginiamycin. Each experimental period was 21 d, with 14 d adaptation, and 4 d of total feces and urine collection. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS and statistical significance was declared at P < 0.05. Dietary treatment did not influence (P > 0.05) OM and CP intake. Apparent total-tract OM and CP digestibility were not influenced (P > 0.05) by dietary treatment. Daily total urinary and fecal N were not influenced (P > 0.05) by dietary treatment. Dietary treatment did not influence (P > 0.05) N retention. Therefore, these data suggest that SBM may be partially or totally replaced by urea as the dietary N source without affecting feed intake, apparent total-tract digestibility, and N balance in Nellore × Red Angus crossbreed young bulls fed a high concentrate diet.
PSX-9 Gonadectomy Is Not Correlated with Altered T-Lymphocyte Populations in Senior Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Mccracken Fiona , Fowler Jason , Dickerson Sarah M , Timlin Claire , Skaggs Patrick , Coon Craig N
Published: November 2023

Retrospective studies have suggested that gonadectomies, such as the spays and neuters common in companion animal populations, may be correlated with the development of autoimmune conditions later in the life of an animale. This study investigated the potential influences of gonadectomy on peripheral blood lymphocyte populations through flow cytometry. Twenty senior Labrador Retrievers (10 males and 10 females) were randomly selected from Four Rivers Kennel’s existing research colony according to their intact or altered status. Groups were balanced by age and body weight (average 11.4 y/o and 64.5 kg) as both have been previously shown to alter lymphocyte populations. A single blood collection was performed and stained with canine cross-reactive conjugated antibodies CD3-FITC, CD4-Superbright 600, CD8-Superbright 702, and a fixable lime viability stain (Invitrogen, Waltham MA). Samples were processed through a whole blood based lyse no-wash method and analyzed on an Attune NXT Flow Cytometer equipped with blue and violet lasers (ThermoFisher Waltham, MA). Measurement of cell populations was completed on a defined volume of each sample, and all subsets were gated to live, singlet lymphocytes. Statistical significance was determined through one-way ANOVAs on JMP Pro 16 (Cary, NC). There were no significant differences in CD4+/CD8+ ratio between groups (P = 0.56), or total lymphocyte populations (P = 0.34). Additionally, there were no significant differences between groups regarding CD3+ MFI (P = 0.25), CD8+ MFI (P = 0.70), or CD4+ MFI (P = 0.43). Overall, in age and body weight balanced senior Labrador Retrievers, spay or neuter status did not significantly influence T-cell populations. This suggests that previous gonadectomy does not influence the adaptive immune system as an animal ages. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between gonadectomy and the later development of autoimmune disorders.
PSX-22 Effects Of Milk Replacer Supplementation with Beta-Glucans on Male Dairy Calf Performance
Authors: Pereira Jessica M V , Mazon Gustavo , Setser Megan M Woodrum , Costa Joao H C
Published: November 2023

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to determine the performance effects of milk replacer supplemented with a feed additive high in beta-glucans for male dairy calves. Holstein male calves (n = 147) were enrolled in a 76-day randomized block trial in two blocks. Upon enrollment, calves were assigned to one of the four following treatments: Control with no beta-glucan supplementation (BG0; n = 36; BW = 48.32 ± 3.73 kg), 1 g· animal-1· d-1 (BG1; n = 38; BW = 48.29 ± 2.89kg), 3 g· animal-1· d-1 (BG3; n = 37; BW = 48.31 ± 3.23 kg), and 5 g· animal-1· d-1 (BG5; n = 36; BW = 48.47 ± 3.00 kg) of beta-glucans. The beta-glucan supplement was blended with milk replacer (24% CP, 20% fat; 130 g/L) and fed to calves during the morning milking. Calves were individually housed, had unlimited access to water, and a pelletized calf starter (20% CP). Calves were fed 5 L/d of milk replacer divided into two equal meals until d 15; milk feeding plan increased until d 35 (8 L/d), on d 36, milk allowance was gradually reduced until weaned on d 56 (2.5 L/d). Calf starter intake and body weight were recorded weekly until d 77. Disease treatment was recorded daily. A mixed linear model determined the effect of treatment on calf starter intake and average daily gain. The model included treatment if the calf was ever treated with antibiotics for respiratory disease and/or diarrhea, study period, and a treatment by period interaction. Block was considered a random factor. The total milk replacer intake was 5.73 ± 0.08, 5.71 ± 0.08, 5.73 ± 0.01, 5.73 ± 0.01 L/d for BG0, BG1, BG3 and BG5, respectively. Calf grain intake by treatment was 58.10 ± 12.02, 54.58 ± 8.11, 56.86 ± 11.8, 56.73 ± 15.52 for BG0, BG1, BG3 and BG5, respectively. Overall, 55% and 71% of all calves were treated at least once for diarrhea, and respiratory disease respectively. The percentage of animals treated for diarrhea by treatment were 45.00, 57.50, 50.00, and 32.50% for BG0, BG1, BG3, and BG5, respectively. For respiratory disease, the percentage of animals treated was 72.5, 72.5, 70.0, and 70.00 for BG0, BG1, BG3, and BG5 treatments, respectively. There was a significant interaction between treatment and study period where the control group had greater starter intake during the postweaning period (BG0 = 0.78 ± 0.01, BG1= 0.82 ± 0.01, BG3 = 0.81 ± 0.02, BG5 = 0.82± 0.01 kg/d; P < 0 .001). No treatment or treatment by study period effects was observed for average daily gain (P = 0.79, P = 0.89, respectively). Future research should investigate the effects of beta-glucans on blood metabolites and palatability throughout the calf-rearing period.
PSX-11 Effect of Preservation Method on Nutritive Value of Kudzu Forage
Authors: Rigney Diva N , Hines Abbigail R , Heaton Courtney , Smith Brandon B
Published: November 2023

“The vine that ate the South,” also known as kudzu (Pueraria montana [Lour.] Merr.) is a drought-tolerant perennial leguminous vine that was introduced from Asia to the United States as an ornamental crop. It was quickly recognized and favored as a solution to soil erosion during the Dust Bowl. However, due to its ability to quickly overtake existing vegetation, it was ultimately labeled as an invasive species by the USDA. Given current sustainability efforts, interest has renewed in ways to incorporate this invasive species for productive agricultural purposes. The goal of this study was to investigate how preservation (i.e., haying) would affect the nutritive value and digestibility of kudzu forage. Kudzu was harvested from a private property in Auburn, Alabama. Two independent plots on the property were utilized; half of thefresh biomass was immediately removed, and the remaining half was removed at 20% moisturefor the sun-cured sample. Samples were collected from each plot and assayed for NDF, ADF, ADL, and CP. Samples were also assayed for in vitro true and NDF disappearance (IVTD and IVNDFD, respectively) as well as in situ ruminal disappearance. Data were analyzed using SAS v. 9.4. There was no effect of preservation on NDF, ADF, ADL, and CP concentrations (P ≥0.39). However, kudzu samples subjected to sun-curing had greater IVTD (64.3%, P < 0.01) and IVTDOM (63.0%; P < 0.01) and tended to have greater IVNDFD (35.6%; P = 0.06) thanfresh kudzu (59.4, 57.8, and 31.3%, respectively). There was no effect (P ≥ 0.12) of preservation on the potentially degradable fraction, lag time, or rate of digestion of kudzu samples. However, fresh samples had a greater (P < 0.01) undegradable residue than did sun-cured samples (49.3 vs.38.8%). The improvements in digestibility are interpreted to mean that preservation methods, such as sun-curing, may be valuable for increasing the value of kudzu as a roughage source for ruminant livestock production systems.
PSX-12 Effects of Cottonseed Meal Supplementation on Calf Performance and Forage Utilization Grazing Late Season Summer Forage
Authors: Kern Connor R , Rathmann Ryan R , Sarturi Jhones O , Norris Aaron B , Crossland Whitney L
Published: November 2023

Nutritive quality of perennial warm-season grasses during summer may limit the DMI of growing calves due to low protein and increased NDF content. Cottonseed meal (CSM) supplementation may improve forage utilization by increasing rumen degradable protein, but research in calves is limited. It was hypothesized that supplementation of CSM to heifers grazing mature forage would have improved performance due to greater forage DMI and fiber digestibility. Objectives were to compare the effects of CSM supplementation on calf gain performance, estimated forage intake, and in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) and neutral detergent digestibility (IVNDFD) of low-quality, warm-season forage. Angus heifers (n = 18) weighing 232.7 ± 12.6 kg were blocked by BW (light, medium, and heavy) and allocated to 6 paddocks (1.64 ha) of W.W. B-Dahl Bluestem (Bothriochloa bladhii) for 67 d. Heifers were supplemented daily with a mineral mix and either no cottonseed meal (CON) or 454 g/animal of CSM (CSM1) in a RCBD with a 2×3 factorial arrangement of treatments and BW blocks, respectively. Initial and final shrunk BW was measured to calculate total gain, ADG, and percent of BW gained. Forage samples were collected weekly and composited into 3 periods for chemical analysis and in vitro incubations. Forage DMI was estimated using a double sampling technique for each paddock within period. Forage IVTD and IVNDFD were analyzed using batch fermentation with and without CSM in a CRD (2 treatments by 3 periods). Mean forage CP during periods 1 and 2 were 5.75% and increased to 10.3% in period 3 (P < 0.01). Forage NDF content increased over time (64.1 vs. 69.3%; P < 0.01) and estimated forage DMI of heifers tended (P = 0.07) to decrease from 2.9 to 2.1% of BW. Treatment did not affect estimated forage DMI (P = 0.40). Heifers receiving CSM1 gained 28.3% more BW than heifers receiving CON (47.27 vs. 36.82 kg, respectively; P = 0.02). Percent of BW gained was greater for heifers receiving CSM1 than CON (16.9 vs. 13.8% of initial BW, respectively, P = 0.029). There were no treatment by period interactions on IVTD or IVNDFD. The IVTD of forage from period 1 was greater than periods 2 and 3 (49.9 vs. 47.1 and 46.6%, respectively; P = 0.005). The IVTD of forage incubated with CSM tended (P = 0.06) to be greater than forage without CSM (52.1% vs. 47.8%, respectively). The IVNDFD was not affected by period but tended to be greater with CSM inclusion (P = 0.09) relative to CON (24.83% vs. 18.95%, respectively). In conclusion, 454 g/d of CSM supplemented to heifers grazing late-summer W.W. B-Dahl Bluestem forage likely provided sufficient protein to alter ruminal fiber digestibility, without affecting forage intake, and had measurable effects on gain.