bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
508 Effects of starch content of the concentrate on growth performance, temperament and carcass traits of finishing bison
Authors: de Almeida Maite , Lopez-Campos Oscar , Prieto Nuria , Penner Gregory , Ribeiro Gabriel O , Moya Diego
Published: September 2024

Yearling bison bulls [n = 48; commercial Wood × Plains, 435 ± 13.4 kg body weight (BW)] were used in a 156-d feeding trial to evaluate the effects of the starch content in the concentrate on growth performance, gain-to-feed ratio (GF), temperament, and carcass traits. Bison were homogenously distributed into 12 pens (4 bulls/pen) based on BW, and each pen randomly assigned (n = 6) to receive either a high-starch (HS; 51.4% dry matter basis, DM), or moderate-starch (MS; 25.8% DM) concentrate, alongside free access to water and grass hay bales. The amount of feed delivered to each pen and orts were recorded to estimate dry matter intake (DMI) for each ingredient. Bison were weighed on d 1, 28, 60, 116, and 156 to monitor average daily gain (ADG) and GF. When handled for weighing, exit speed from the chute was determined as a measure of their temperament. On d 156, bison were transported to a slaughterhouse where back fat thickness, carcass grade, and ribeye area were determined. The HS bison bulls had reduced DMI for both grass hay (P = 0.04) and concentrate (P < 0.01) compared with MS. The HS bulls had a greater (P < 0.01) chute exit speed than MS. Both MS and HS had similar (P > 0.10) final BW, ADG, GF, and proportion of hay and concentrate inclusion in the diet. Back fat thickness, ribeye area, and proportion of carcass grades were not different (P > 0.10) between MS and HS. These findings suggest that finishing bison bulls reduced their feed intake in response to a high percentage of starch in the concentrate, without affecting growth performance, GF, or carcass traits indicative of fat and muscle deposition, but with HS causing a more excitable temperament profile, typically associated to chronic stress.
501 The effect of dietary camelina, flaxseed, and canola oil supplementation on skin fatty acid profile, inflammation and immune responses in healthy adult horses
Authors: Hartwig Samantha , Burron Scarlett , Richards Taylor , Rankovic Alexandra , Ma David W L , Pearson Wendy , Ellis Jennifer L , Seymour Dave J , Shoveller Anna K
Published: September 2024

As n-6 and n-3 fatty acids (FA) have pro- and anti-inflammatory effects, respectively, supplemental oils have the potential to impact inflammation, the immune response, and skin and coat health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of camelina (CAM), in comparison to canola (OLA) and flaxseed (FLX) oil on the skin FA profile, inflammation, and the immune response in horses. Horses [n = 24; 14.2 ± 4.8 yr; 518 ± 63 kg body weight (BW)] were acclimated to sunflower oil over 4 wk. Groups were balanced by location, age, weight, sex, and breed and randomly assigned one of the three treatments (CAM, OLA, FLX). Horses were fed their assigned oil at a dose of 0.37 g/kg BW for 16 wk. Skin samples were collected on wk 16, and the skin FA composition was analyzed by gas chromatography. On wk 10 and 12, keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) was administered intramuscularly to each horse to stimulate a systemic immune response. Blood was collected on wk 14 and 16 for the evaluation of plasma KLH immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations using a modified ELISA protocol and results were presented as optical density units. On wk 12, after the first KLH injection, a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) test was performed by intradermally injecting KLH and the area of swelling was measured using the software ImageJ at 0.5-, 1-, 8-, 24-, 48-, 72-, and 96-h post-injection. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS considering the effects of treatment, time, and their interaction as fixed, and the effects of horse and location as random. Repeated measures on horses were modelled using a spatial power covariance structure. Significance was declared at P ≤ 0.05 and when fixed effects were significant, means were separated using Tukey-Kramer adjustments. Immune and inflammatory responses were produced by the KLH injections; however, there were no differences among treatment groups regarding KLH antibody and DTH response (P > 0.44). The percentages of palmitic (P = 0.02) and stearic acid (P = 0.03) in the skin at wk 16 were greater in FLX as compared with CAM but neither differed from the OLA. The percentage of linoleic acid (P = 0.01) was greater in CAM than OLA but neither differed from FLX at wk 16. The percentage of all other FA was similar among treatment groups (P > 0.06). These results suggest that CAM is comparable to FLX and OLA regarding support of an immune and inflammatory response, and the oil FA composition was not reflected in the skin FA profile after feeding for 16 wk as hypothesized. In conclusion, at the dose provided, CAM supports a similar immune and inflammatory response to KLH as FLX and OLA; however, the lack of incorporation of FA from the diet into the skin should be further explored.
507 Effects of simple and complex polycrop mixtures on forage yield and quality, beef cow performance, and methane emissions
Authors: Robinson Shelby M , Ribeiro Gabriel O , Larson Kathy A , Lardner H (Bart) A
Published: September 2024

Polycrop mixtures are of increasing interest to western Canadian beef producers as alternative forages for grazing as they may promote plant biodiversity and nutritive value. This 2-yr study evaluated the effects of swath grazing either simple or complex polycrop mixtures on forage yield and quality, beef cow performance, and methane emissions. Forage treatments included 1) CDC Haymaker oat (Avena sativa; Control); 2) CDC Haymaker oat, Goliath brassica (Brassica napus), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa), CDC Jasper pea (Pisum sativum; Simple); and 3) CDC Haymaker oat, Goliath brassica, hairy vetch, CDC Jasper pea, CDC Maverick barley (Hordeum vulgare), Red proso millet (Panicum miliaceum), Teff grass (Eragrostis tef) and Choice chicory (Cichorium intybus; Complex). Dry pregnant beef cows [n = 90; body weight (BW) = 607.2 ± 32.3 kg; body condition score (BCS) = 2.9 ± 0.06] blocked by BW were randomly allocated to 1 of 9 paddocks (10 cows/paddock). Paddocks were randomly assigned 1 of 3 replicated (n = 3) systems. Cow BCS was measured at start (SOT) and end (EOT) of trial. Cow BW was recorded on 2 consecutive days at the SOT and EOT, and every 21 d during trial. Cows grazed for an average of 52 d from October to December (Control 51 ± 9.07 d; Simple 54 ± 9.20 d; Complex 53 ± 12.41 d). Data were analyzed as a completely randomized block design using the mixed model of SAS (9.4). Year and paddock were included as a random effect. Forage dry matter yield (DMY) was similar (P = 0.44) among Control (4,369 kg/ha), Simple (4,053 kg/ha), and Complex (4,245 kg/ha) treatments. Start of trial forage crude protein (CP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) did not differ (P = 0.18 and P = 0.14) among treatments (Control 13.3% CP and 74.4% TDN; Simple 14.76% CP and 71.51% TDN; Complex 14.95% CP and 74.46% TDN). End of trial forage CP and TDN did not differ (P = 0.57 and P = 0.20) among treatments (Control 13.9% CP and 69.5% TDN; Simple 13.9% CP and 69.9% TDN; Complex 13.2% CP and 72.4% TDN). Cow BCS and average daily gain did not differ among forage treatments (P = 0.60 and P = 0.45, respectively). Cow dry matter intake (DMI) was similar (P = 0.19) among treatments (Control 11.13 kg/d; Simple 9.74 kg/d; Complex 9.96 kg/d). Methane emissions were greatest (P = 0.04) for cows grazing Simple (28.7 CH4 g/kg DMI) and Complex treatments (28.2 CH4 g/kg DMI) compared with monoculture oat treatment (22.6 CH4 g/kg DMI). Study results suggest that simple or complex polycrop mixtures may be used as forage alternatives to a monoculture oat grazing system as they produce adequate biomass and had nutritive value suitable for gestating beef cows.
505 Utilizing porcine hepatocyte cultures to test the effect of short chain fatty acids on androstenone metabolism
Authors: Lawson Austin J , Bone Christine , Squires E James
Published: September 2024

Boar taint is an off-putting odor found in the meat of entire male pigs due to the accumulation of androstenone and skatole in the fat. Development of boar taint is dependent on the balance between the rate of synthesis and metabolism of these compounds. Prior studies have shown that feed ingredients high in fermentable carbohydrates, including chicory root, sugar beet pulp, and Jerusalem artichoke decreased the synthesis of skatole in the hindgut and altered the metabolism in the liver, resulting in a skatole concentrations comparable with castrated males. However, the mechanism of how these dietary fermentable carbohydrates affect liver metabolism is not well understood. Metabolism of boar taint compounds takes place in a two-phase process, regulated by various enzymes and cytochrome families. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced from the microbial fermentation of fiber and have been shown to have regulatory effects on histone deacetylases and gene expression in humans, providing a potential mechanism in which feed high in dietary fiber reduces boar taint. The purpose of this study was to assess if SCFA directly affect the metabolism of androstenone in liver hepatocytes. Primary hepatocytes were isolated from the liver of 6 [(Yorkshire x Landrace) x Duroc] boars weighing around 90 kg. Cells were treated in triplicate with acetate, butyrate, propionate, and various combinations for 24 h to alter gene expression. Two sets of wells acted as a control, not being treated with SCFAs. The cells were then incubated with androstenone for 3 h, and media was extracted, and metabolite production was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. The effects of treatments were using a one-way ANOVA with a Dunnet’s adjustment for multiple comparisons to a control. Results showed the combined acetate, butyrate, and propionate treatment had the greatest effect on androstenone glucuronide production when compared with the control, resulting in significant increases (P < 0.05) ranging from 82 ± 1.6% to 1 ± 2.4% in individual boars. Other treatments had a similar effect, significantly increasing the production of androstenone glucuronide but to a lesser degree. Butyrate increased production ranging from 40 ± 2.2% to 5±1.5% (P < 0.05), propionate from 38 ± 3.6% to 3 ± 2.6% (P < 0.05), acetate and butyrate from 61±3.9% to 1 ± 2.8% (P < 0.05), acetate and propionate from 70±3.5% to 5±1.7% (P < 0.05), and butyrate and propionate from 82 ± 2.5% to 4 ± 1.1% (P < 0.05) when compared with the control. In conclusion, this trial provided evidence that SCFAs produced by the microbial fermentation of fiber can significantly increase hepatic androstenone metabolism in some animals, with a wide range in these effects among individual boars. Future research will involve assessing the effects of SCFAs on hepatic skatole metabolism.
499 Effect of adding plant extracted hydrolysable tanning and saponin combination to prairie blend pelleted feed products on accumulative gas production kinetics and methane emission in ruminant systems
Authors: Hidayat Taufiq , Rodríguez Espinosa María E , Lardner H (Bart) A , Newkirk Rex N , Yu Peiqiang
Published: September 2024

The objectives of this study were to study the effect of adding plant extracted hydrolysable tanning (HT) and saponin (S) combination as a combined phytochemical feed additive (HTS) on in vitro accumulative gas production kinetics and methane (CH4) emission of blend pelleted feed products in ruminant systems. Four combination levels [0 (control), 1.5 (1% HT + 0.5% S), 3 (2% HT + 1%S), 4.5 (3% HT + 1.5% S)] were added to canola meal and pea mixtures with two different ratios (CMP1: 50:50; CMP2: 70:30) which were used to make Prairie blend pellet feed products. The accumulative gas production kinetics and CH4 were determined using in vitro systems. The ruminal fluid was obtained from rumen fistulated lactation dairy cows. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with the HTS level as a fixed effect and in vitro run with fistulated animals as a random effect. The data were analyzed using SAS Mixed Procedure. Polynomial contract was used to determine linear and quadratic relationship. The results showed that adding HTS level linearly reduced asymptotic production a) from 110.5 to 82.7 mL/g DM (P = 0.043) and average production at one-half of asymptotic production (AP) from 11.9 to 9.5 mL (P = 0.069) without significantly affecting gas production fractional rate (c, %/h) with an average of 0.58 ± 0.49 %/h and lag time with an average of 1.95 ± 0.50 h. As to CH4 emission at different incubation times, the result showed that at short incubation times (2 h, 4 h, 12 h), adding HTS had numerically reduced methane emission (CH4) from 2.77 to 0.98 mL/g (at 2 h) and 4.39 to 1.38 mL/g (at 4 h). with increasing HTS level, CH4 was significantly quadratically reduced (P = 0.028) at 12 h incubation time from 8.31 to 5.76 mL/g. After long incubation (24 h), adding HTS did not have significant impact on CH4. In conclusion, adding HTS to prairie blend pellet feed products significantly affected gas production kinetics (the asymptotic production and average production at one-half of asymptotic production). Adding HTS had an increased potential to decrease CH4 emission at short incubation times.
503 Selection signatures in a prolific meat sheep breed
Authors: Rodrigues Julia L , Braga Larissa Graciano , Berry Donagh P , Buzanskas Marcos E , Munari Danísio P , Schenkel Flávio S
Published: September 2024

In sheep meat production, prolificity is one of the main factors influencing economic profitability of a farm. Belclare sheep are used for meat production and have passed through intense selection pressure to high prolificity, leading them to have large litter sizes. This study aimed to identify selection signature regions and carry out functional analyses related to reproduction traits in the Belclare breed in contrast to a group of non-prolific meat breeds. A total of 50,166 biallelic SNPs from the Illumina OvineSNP50 genotyped in the Belclare breed (n = 2,377) and four meat breeds (Beltex, n = 146; Charollais, n = 1,477; Suffolk, n = 1,231 and Texel, n = 3,330). SNP filtering and quality control were performed within each breed using PLINK v1.9. Only SNPs on autosomal chromosomes with defined positions according to the sheep (Ovis aries) genome assembly OAR3.1 were analyzed. Samples and SNPs with a call rate below 95% were discarded, as well as SNPs with MAF below 1% and deviation of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium with P-value ≤ 10-6. Imputation of missing genotypes and haplotype phasing were performed using BEAGLE v.3.3.2. After quality control, an average of 30,249 SNPs were further analyzed. Selection signature detection was performed by Cross-Population Extended Haplotype Homozygosity (XP-EHH) and Ratio of Site-specific Extended Haplotype Homozygosity between populations (Rsb), with the REHH v.3.2.2 software in R, using 100 kb non-overlapping windows with at least two markers per window. The top 1% windows with the greatest average values were considered regions under positive selection. Gene and QTL annotation were conducted with the GALLO R package. Gene and metabolic pathways enrichment (FDR< 0.10) were performed with gprofiler2 software. A total of 67 genomic regions co-localized with 76 candidate genes and 65 QTLs were identified. The genes were enriched for 12 molecular function terms. Among the annotated genes, FSHR, INSL6, HSD17B12, and SGK1 were previously found to be related to reproduction traits. The enriched term follicle-stimulating hormone receptor activity was related to the FSHR gene. The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has an important role in follicular development, and their concentrations are regulated by the FSH receptor (FSHR), which suggests that FSHR is also involved in prolificity of the ewe. The testes weight trait was detected in the reproductive QTL class, but no gene related to fertility was identified. The gene INSL6 is associated with spermatogenesis and sperm motility and, as Belclare rams are used to produce prolific replacements, it may have an important role in semen quality and prolificity, as increased semen quality might increase the chance of a successful fecundation. The identification of selection signatures highlights that the selection pressure left footprints in the Belclare breed genome related to reproduction, which may affect the litter sizes.
504 Relationship between vaginal microbiota and reproductive efficiency in dairy cows
Authors: Félix Santiago Erika J , Vega Manríquez Delia X , Hernández Milagros González , Sánchez Jorge Flores , Mendoza Andrea García , Rosales Nieto Cesar A
Published: September 2024

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors determine the milk production of a dairy herd, which is affected by the reproductive efficiency of dairy farms. Infectious, nutritional, and management causes can negatively affect this efficiency. After parturition, dairy cows are sensible to clinical diseases since the physical barriers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva are compromised, allowing environmental bacteria to ascend, altering the vaginal microbiota. It is possible that the alteration of the microorganisms of the vaginal microbiota alters the response of circulating hormones related to a new conception and leads to repeat breeder cow syndrome. Repeat breeder cow (RBC) syndrome is considered when the cows have difficulties becoming pregnant after three or more attempts. This was investigated by associating the microorganisms of the vaginal microbiota with the circulating concentration of progesterone, glucose, and reproductive success in Holstein cows. We used 30 Holstein cows of similar body condition and parity (4th) assigned to two treatments based on their historical reproductive success. T-RBC with repeat breeder cow syndrome (n = 15), and T-control (CTL) without (n = 15). At insemination, we collected a vaginal mucosa sample from each cow. The samples were plated on blood agar and McConkey media under aerobiosis and micro-aerobiosis conditions. The isolated colonies were identified through Gram staining and specific biochemical tests to determine the genus and species of each bacterium. Blood samples were collected at insemination, d 5 post insemination, and every 2 d afterward for progesterone and glucose assay. Data for fertility were analyzed using PROC-GLIMMIX with a binomial distribution and logit link function. Data for progesterone and glucose were analyzed using MIXED effects and repetitive measures. Up to date, Bacillus, E coli, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, Proteus, Streptococcus, and Actinomyces have been isolated. Over time, circulating progesterone and glucose did not differ between treatments (P > 0.05). To date, the fertility rate is similar between treatments (33%; P > 0.05); however, the number of services per conception differed (T-RBC:6 vs T-CTL:1; P < 0.001). The incidence of Bacillus (31% vs 7%; P < 0.001), E. coli (45% vs 4%; P < 0.001), and Staphylococcus (23% vs 9%; P < 0.01) was greater in non-pregnant cows than in pregnant cows. The incidence of the rest of the isolated bacteria was similar between pregnant and non-pregnant cows (P > 0.05). This study suggests that the vaginal microbiota in dairy cows can change according to the reproductive state of the cow. Our study was based on fourth-parity cows; however, more research is needed to elucidate if the same condition is presented in cows with different parity.
506 Residual feed intake and thermotolerance in grazing lactating first-calf beef heifers: Effects on metabolism, performance, rumen temperature, and activity behavior
Authors: Londono-Mendez Maria Camila , Lasso-Ramirez Sergio David , Ramirez-Sepulveda Vanesa , Fitzsimmons Carolyn J , Plastow Graham , bork Edward , Basarab John A , da Silva Gleise Medeiros
Published: September 2024

Beef cattle have been selected for feed efficiency to reduce feeding costs and environmental impact, but there is a knowledge gap regarding residual feed intake (RFI) and thermotolerance in grazing beef females. Therefore, this study evaluated blood parameters, rumen temperature (RT), activity behavior, and performance of grazing lactating first-calf beef heifers with divergent RFI during summer. Crossbred beef heifers [n = 35; 432 ± 8.40 kg of body weight (BW) and 26 ± 1 mo of age] previously tested and classified for RFI as more (n = 17; LOW-RFI = -0.8 ± 0.214) or less efficient (n = 18; HIGH-RFI = 1.5 ± 0.220) were used in a completely randomized design, grazing continuously a single pasture during summer (June to August). An accelerometer-based sensor recorded lying, standing, and step counts, while RT was automatically recorded using a rumen bolus throughout the 64-d experimental period. Body weight and blood samples were collected on d 0, 13, 28, and 64, while body fat deposition was assessed via ultrasonography on 0, 13, 28, and 50 d. Plasma was analyzed for concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), free triiodothyronine (fT3), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), and whole blood used to perform a complete blood cell count. Environmental conditions were assessed by calculating the Climate Comprehensive Index (CCI) using temperature, wind speed, solar radiation, and humidity from a weather station within 1 km of the pasture. The resulting CCI index categorized environmental stress from non-existent to imposing extreme danger risk. An RFI × day interaction was observed for NEFA (P = 0.08), with LOW-RFI showing greater concentrations vs. HIGH-RFI on a period classified as not imposing environmental stress. An effect of day (P < 0.01) was detected for BUN, fT3, and HSP70. An RFI × hour (P = 0.02) interaction was detected for RT, where RT was greater from 1400 h to 0600 h in HIGH-RFI. White blood cell counts (P = 0.04) and mean corpuscular volumes were greater (P = 0.05), while plateletcrit was less (P = 0.01) in LOW-RFI. An RFI × day interaction was found for monocytes and monocytes% (P = 0.04), with greater concentrations 24-h after severe stress in HIGH-RFI. The HIGH-RFI tended to have greater RIB fat at d 50 (P = 0.06) despite no differences in gain or BW between groups (P ≥ 0.26). An interaction between RFI × hour (P < 0.01) showed that HIGH-RFI had a greater number of steps and standing time and less lying time during the hottest hours of the day. In summary, this study revealed that RFI influenced physiological and behavioral reactions to environmental stress, favoring the more feed-efficient first-calf beef heifers.
509 Growth and health of Holstein and Holstein x Angus calves from birth to the end of the grower phase
Authors: Chapelain Titouan , McCarthy Hannah , Kovacs Melinda , Innes David , Wood Katharine M , Duarte Marcio S , Renaud David , Steele Michael A
Published: September 2024

Feedlot growth performance and carcass traits often differ between Holstein and dairy-beef crossbred calves. However, little is known about their performance and health during the growing phase when reared under similar conditions. This study aimed to compare purebred Holstein (n = 20) and Holstein x Angus crossbred (n = 20) steers from birth until the end of the grower phase. Male calves sourced from one commercial farm arrived at a calf rearing facility at 4.7 ± 1.94 d of age. Calves were fed milk replacer (24 % CP, 20% fat) twice daily at 12 % of birth body weight (BW) for the first 2 wk after arrival and 15 % BW thereafter until wk 6. Calves were gradually weaned from wk 7 to 9. Calves were offered starter (21 % CP, 28% starch) ad libitum until wk 12, and were fed a grower diet (15 % CP, 56 % starch) until wk 32. Milk intake was recorded daily and starter intake on a weekly basis. Once on the growing diet, feed intake was recorded daily using automated feed bins (Roughage Intake Control system, Hokofarm Group). Until wk 12, fecal and respiratory scores were recorded twice daily to estimate the incidence of disease, BW was measured weekly and frame measurements (hip and wither heights, and heart and chest girth) were recorded on wk 4, 7 and 12. From wk 12 to 32, BW and frame measurements were recorded monthly. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX (SAS 9.4), with breed as fixed, and calf and time as random effects. There were no differences between breeds in initial BW (P = 0.69), proportion of days with diarrhea (P = 0.21) or respiratory disease (P = 0.11), intake of milk (P = 0.45), starter (P = 0.83) or grower diet (P = 0.28). Crossbred calves tended to have greater average daily gain during the rearing phase (P = 0.07) and were growing 250 g/d faster than Holstein calves throughout the growing phase (P < 0.01). Thus, at the end of the growing phase, crossbred calves were 33.5 kg heavier than Holstein calves and had a better feed conversion rate (P < 0.01). During the growing phase, crossbred calves had larger heart and chest girths (P < 0.01) than Holstein calves, whereas hip and wither heights were higher (P < 0.01) for Holstein calves throughout the study. Overall, crossbred calves had greater average daily gain and improved feed conversion rate than Holstein calves during the growing phase, but it remains unknown if these differences will affect their feedlot performance.
497 Amylase supplementation influences nutrient digestibility regardless of corn type in broiler chicken diets
Authors: Vieira Vivian , de Dias Isabella C , dos Santos Marley C , Senger Geovani C , Moreno Filipe A , Maiorka Alex , de Oliveira Simone G
Published: September 2024

Corn is the primary energy supply in the broiler chicken diet. Physical and nutritional characteristics related to corn endosperm can affect nutrient utilization, as well as the inclusion of exogenous enzymes. This study aimed to evaluate two different corn types classified according to endosperm traits in diets for broiler chickens supplemented or not with amylase. Male broiler chickens (n = 360; 1-d old Cobb 500) were allocated in metabolic battery cages and randomly assigned in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (2 corn types; 2 amylase doses: 0 and 90 g/t of diet). A hardness test was performed to categorize and classify each corn type according to breakage force. Corn endosperms were assessed through scanning electron microscopy to investigate structure variations of starch granules. From 19 to 21 d, excreta samples were collected to estimate apparent total tract retention (ATTR) of nutrients and apparent metabolizable energy (AME). On d 26, ileal digesta content was collected to determine apparent ileal nutrients digestibility (AID) and ileal digestible energy (IDE). Data were analyzed using the Student t-test for hardness test (P < 0.05). The Tukey test was performed with a significance declared of 5% to compare the averages obtained for ATTR and AID using the GLM procedure on R Software. Differences were observed in the hardness test (P < 0.05), which classified each corn type either as hard (217 N) or soft (166 N; Table 1). The SEM highlighted structural variations between the floury and vitreous endosperm of each corn. In soft corn, starch granules were more dispersed in the floury endosperm, with a less dense distribution observed in the vitreous endosperm compared with hard corn (Figure 1). However, hard corn exhibited a more compact starch granules distribution in both floury and vitreous endosperm. No differences were observed (P > 0.05) in ATTR of dry matter, crude protein, or AME attributed to corn type, but amylase supplementation improved ATTR of dry matter (P = 0.015) and crude protein (P = 0.020; Table 2). On AID, corn type affected (P = 0.041) dry matter coefficient, and amylase supplementation significantly improved dry matter (P = 0.019), crude protein ileal digestibility (P = 0.012), and IDE (P = 0.018). No interactions between corn type and amylase supplementation were observed (P > 0.05). These findings demonstrated that amylase supplemented in broiler diets impacts nutrient utilization regardless of the corn type used.
495 Comparison of two internal markers and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for predicting nutrient digestibility in beef cattle offered diets varying in forage quantity and quality
Authors: Peters Jenilee F , Swift Mary Lou , Penner Gregory , Lardner H (Bart) A , McAllister Tim A , Ribeiro Gabriel O
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate acid detergent lignin (ADL), and amylase-treated ash-corrected undigestible neutral detergent fiber after 240 h of ruminal in vitro incubation (uNDF), and near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) scanning of feces as methods to estimate the digestibility of diets varying in forage quantity and quality when fed to beef cattle. Five total collection (TC) digestibility studies examined 17 different diets and provided individual fecal samples and the corresponding apparent total tract digestibility of nutrients (n = 229). Feed, orts, and fecal samples were analyzed for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), nitrogen (N), amylase-treated ash-corrected neutral detergent fiber (aNDFom), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ADL, and uNDF. Previously developed fecal NIRS digestibility calibrations were expanded with dried and ground samples using a FOSS D3F scanning monochromator (FOSS, Eden Prairie, MN). Marker estimated and NIRS predicted nutrient digestibility coefficients were regressed against those determined by TC and goodness-of-fit statistics were applied. Mean concentrations of ADL and uNDF in diets ranged from 23.4 to 96.4 g/kg DM and 67.7 to 200 g/kg DM, respectively, with mean fecal recoveries of 94.2% (SD ± 15.7%) for ADL and 87.5% (SD ± 11.1%) for uNDF. Regression fit statistics between NIRS and TC were not different from one (P > 0.05), with R2 > 0.83 except for ADF digestibility (R2 = 0.63). In comparison, regression statistics between internal markers and TC were poorer with R2 ranging from 0.21 to 0.78. Concordance correlation coefficients (CCC) between NIRS and TC were greater than 0.90 for DM, OM, N, and aNDFom digestibility, and 0.77 for ADF digestibility. The CCC between ADL and TC ranged between 0.63 and 0.82, and between uNDF and TC from 0.26 to 0.78. Correction bias (Cb) was high for all parameters (Cb > 0.76) except for ADF digestibility (Cb = 0.58) as estimated by uNDF. The mean square error of prediction (MSEP) for NIRS predicted digestibility were lower (< 10.7%) than those estimated by internal markers, and most of the error was attributed to random bias (> 97.9%). Random bias for ADL was also greater (>76.1%); however, for uNDF the error was more evenly partitioned into mean bias (46.4% to 49.4%) and random bias (30.4 to 41.9%). Digestibility predictions from NIRS scanning of feces were more accurate and precise than when estimated using the internal markers ADL and uNDF. In the absence of NIRS, ADL estimations appear to be more precise and accurate than uNDF for forage-based diets, with uNDF possibly of greater value for estimating the digestibility of high concentrate diets.
494 Long-term effects of canola meal inclusion in gestation and lactation diets on sow and piglet performance over two reproductive cycles
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Nyachoti C Martin
Published: September 2024

The experiment was conducted to determine the long-term effects of dietary canola meal (CM) inclusion as the main protein source in gestation and lactation diets on sow and litter performance. Sows (n = 68) from two baches were randomly allotted 1 of 2 diets on d 80 of pregnancy. The two diets were a corn-barley and soybean meal control diet (CTRL) and a corn-barley and CM treatment diet (CCM). All diets were formulated to be similar in standardized ileal digestible amino acid and net energy contents. Sow body weight (BW) and backfat (BF) thickness were determined on d 1, 35, 80, and 111 of pregnancy, on d 1 and 21 post-farrowing. Piglets were weighed on d 0 and at weaning (d 21). Data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 for a randomized complete block design with repeated measures. Over the two reproductive cycles, dietary treatments did not influence sow BW and BF thickness on d 80 and 111 of pregnancy, as well as d 1 and 21 post-farrowing (P > 0.10). However, sows fed the CCM diet had less (P < 0.05) BW and BF thickness on d 1 and 35 of pregnancy in the second reproductive cycle than sows fed the CTRL diet. The CCM diet decreased gestation gain from d 80 to d 111 of pregnancy compared with the CTRL diet over the two reproductive cycles (P < 0.05). No dietary effect on litter size or litter performance was found during the experimental period (P > 0.10). However, reproductive cycle had significant effects (P < 0.05) on BW gain and BF thickness from d 80 to 111 of pregnancy as well as BW and BF thickness on d 1 of lactation. In addition, litter weight at birth and after cross-fostering were significantly improved during the second reproductive cycle compared with the first cycle (P < 0.05). An interaction between dietary treatment and reproductive cycle on BW gain and BW on d 1 of lactation was observed (P < 0.05). In conclusion, feeding gestation and lactation diets containing CM as the main protein source to sows over two reproductive cycles supported similar sow reproductive and litter performance as the control.
488 Evaluation of the newly developed value-added blended fat stimulated feed product (BFSFP): Comparison with commercial protein and energy feeds on invitro fermentation characteristics
Authors: Ihsan Umair , Prates Luciana , Lardner H (Bart) A , Newkirk Rex N , Rodriguez E. Maria E , Yu Peiqiang
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to compare the nutritional fractions of a newly developed blended fat stimulated feed product (BFSFP) with traditional feed sources as barley grain and canola meal in terms of DM digestibility, neutral detergent fiber (NDF) digestibility, and volatile fatty acids (VFA) using the in vitro batch culture method. Data were analyzed using “Mixed Procedure” of SAS software (SAS Institute, Inc., 2004) using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The CRD model assumption test was carried out using Proc Univariate with Normal and Plot option. Multi treatment comparison was carried out using Tukey’s method. Significance was declared at P < 0.05 and tendency at 0.05 < P < 0.10. In terms of NDF digestibility, the newly developed BFSFP was not significantly different from the commercial protein feed [i.e., canola meal and energy feeds (barley)]. At 6 h of incubation the NDF digestibility was 4.98% while the NDF digestibility of barley was 15.32% and canola meal was 9.70%. Similarly at 48 h of incubation NDF digestibility of BPSFP was 45.95% which was not significantly different from barley feed having digestibility 47.22% and canola meal 45.68%. Moreover, in terms of dry matter digestibility (DMD) the BFSFP was significantly different from commercial barley and canola meal. At 6 h of incubation the dry matter digestibility of BFSFP was 46.31% which was greater than canola meal (42.13%) but less than barley (55.19%) at P > 0.05. However, at 48 h of incubation the BFSFP (73.98%) was significantly less from both canola meal (80.04) and barely (90%) at P > 0.05. In terms of VFA, BFSF had an intermediate acetate proportion (48.89 mol/100 mol) compared with canola meal and barley feed (50.35 and 45.90 mol/100 mol), respectively P > 0.05. Propionate was greater for barley feed (29.39 mol/100 mol) than BFSF and canola meal (25.43 and 23.19), respectively P > 0.05. Butyrate was similar for BFSFP and barley feed (13.00 mol/100 mol) and greater than canola meal (10.97 mol/100 mol) at P > 0.05. BFSFP showed an intermediate total VFA concentration (60.12 mMol/L) compared with barley feed (65.69 mMol/L) and canola meal (56.15 mMol/L) at P > 0.05.
480 The effect of parity on the quality of colostrum, internal parasite load, and postnatal development of Holstein calves
Authors: Mendoza Andrea García , Hernández Milagros González , Vega Manríquez Delia Xochil , Félix Santiago Erika J , Rosales Nieto Cesar A , Perez Barba Maria del Refugio
Published: September 2024

This research aimed to associate the effect of the parity number of the mother on the transfer of immunity, internal parasite load, and weaning weight of the female progeny. Calves that receive sufficient and good quality colostrum shortly after birth present improved passive immunity, vital for optimum calf health and future production. Management practices and the parity of the dam can influence colostrum composition, leading to an unsuccessful transfer of passive immunity and an increased incidence of infectious agents, which increases diarrhea and, thus, morbidity or mortality in newborn calves. The study included 90 animals, Holstein cows and their female progeny that were distributed into three groups according to the dam parity: first (n = 15 + 15), second (n = 15 + 15), and third (n = 15 + 15) parity. Immediately after birth, birth weight was recorded, and colostrum immunoglobulins (IgG) were determined by colostrometer and refractometry. The chemical composition (fat, protein, and non-fat solids) of the colostrum was determined using a milk analyzer (Ekomilk, Milkana KAM 98-2A, Satara Maharashtra) according to the manufacturer for cow milk. The calves consumed 10% of their birth weight of colostrum from their respective mother. Fecal samples were collected at 0 and 30 d of age and assessed for internal parasites (coccidia). Our preliminary results indicate that calves from dams from third parity were heavier at birth (P < 0.001; Table 1). The specific gravity of the bovine colostrum was similar among groups (P > 0.05). IgG concentration in colostrum tended to differ among groups by the refractometry (P = 0.08; Table 1), but not by colostrometer (P > 0.05; Table 1). The density and protein content in colostrum differed among groups, favoring dams from third parity (P < 0.05; Table 1). Fat content in colostrum was greater in dams from first parity (P < 0.01; Table 1); but not non-fat solids (P > 0.05; Table 1). The internal parasite load and incidence of coccidia at 30 d of age did not differ among groups (P > 0.05). Our preliminary conclusions indicate that the fat content in colostrum was greater in first-parity dams than in third-parity dams, perhaps due to a dilution effect. The difference in birth weight is possibly due to maternal body weight. The greater weight at birth, IgG content in colostrum and the better colostrum quality from third-parity dams led to healthier calves at 30 d of age. More research is needed to elucidate if these conditions remain up to weaning and in their first insemination.
481 Impacts of breeding method on metabolic profile, progesterone concentration, and pregnancy rates in dairy goats
Authors: Kolikapongu Ramya Sri , Namani Sharath Chandra , Schauston Miller , Singh Mahipal , Kouakou Brou , Moawad Adel R
Published: September 2024

Understanding the distinctions between natural breeding and artificial insemination (AI) in goats empowers farmers and reproductive specialists to make informed decisions regarding breeding management. The precise synchronization of estrous in goats is crucial to achieve proper timing for AI. AI in goats requires technical expertise and can be difficult because goats are not always amenable to synchronization protocols. We previously reported that prostaglandin (PG)F2α alone could be used effectively for estrous synchronization in goats compared with PGF2α plus gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Our aim was to compare the breeding method (natural breeding vs. AI) on the metabolic profile, progesterone concentrations, and pregnancy outcomes of dairy goats. Mixed breed (Alpine and Saanen) mature does (n = 29; 3.9 ± 0.28 yr of age) were subjected to estrous synchronization by receiving two injections of 10 mg PGF2α on d 0 and d 11 per goat. Thirty-six hours after the second PGF2α injection, goats were either naturally bred (n = 14) with the same breed mature buck or artificially inseminated (n = 15) with frozen/thawed semen using cervical AI. Blood samples were collected on d 12 and 21 post-breeding (PB) for measuring cholesterol, glucose, and triglyceride concentrations. Furthermore, progesterone concentrations were estimated on plasma samples collected on d 3, 9, 15, and 21 PB. Pregnancy specific protein B (PSB) concentrations were also detected on d 28, 35 and 42 PB. Data were presented as means ± S.E. and analyzed by one-way analysis of variance, followed by post hoc Tukey’s test. Results showed that, cholesterol concentrations on d 12 PB was greater (P ≤ 0.05) in natural breeding than AI groups. However, no significant differences were observed in glucose and triglyceride concentrations between the 2 breeding methods. Progesterone concentration was greater (P ≤ 0.05) on d 15 PB in natural breeding than AI groups. PSB was greater (P ≤ 0.05) in natural breeding than AI groups at all time points. Pregnancy rates as detected by ultrasonography on d 50 PB were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in natural breeding than AI groups (71.4% vs. 13.3%, respectively). Furthermore, the kidding rates were greater in natural breeding than AI groups (128.6% vs. 20.0%, respectively). The percentage of female kids was greater than male (66.6% vs. 33.3%, respectively) in both breeding methods. In conclusion, our findings suggest that PGF2α alone as an estrous synchronization protocol combined with natural breeding was more effective than the use of AI after estrous synchronization. Nevertheless, further approaches are required to improve the success rates of AI in dairy goats.
485 Impact of annual and perennial forage systems on forage biomass and quality, steer performance, and enteric methane emissions
Authors: Sammons Jourdyn , Damiran Daalkhaijav , Rinas Crystal , Helgason Bobbi , Kelln Breeanna , Lardner H (Bart) A
Published: September 2024

Beef producers require forage options that provide adequate yield and high nutritive value, optimizing the production and sustainability of grazing operations. Few multiple year studies within Canada compare novel perennial and annual grass legume blends under grazing. This study evaluated the effects of perennial and annual forage systems on forage biomass and quality, grazing animal performance, and enteric emissions. Forage treatments included 1) AC Success hybrid bromegrass (Bromus riparius Rehm. × Bromus inermis Leyss.) + PS3006 alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.; HBG-ALF), 2) AC Armada meadow bromegrass (Bromus riparius Rehm.) + AAC Mountainview sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.; MBG-SF), 3) AC Hazlet fall rye (Secale cereale L.) + Frosty berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.; FR-CLOV), and 4) Winfred forage brassica (Brassica oleracea L.× Brassica rapa L.) + Gorilla forage brassica (Brassica napus L.) + 4010 pea (Pisum sativum L.) + CDC Austenson barley (Hordeum vulgare L.; BR-PE-BRAS). Yearling beef steers [n = 120, body weight (BW) = 397 ± 10 kg] were randomly allocated to 1 of 4 replicated (n = 3) forage systems for an average of 65 d grazing period amongst the 12 paddocks. Dry matter yield (DMY) was similar (P = 0.33) between BR-PE-BRAS (2,170 kg/ha) and HBG-ALF (1938 kg/ha), which were greater (P < 0.0001) than both MBG-SF (1030 kg/ha) and FR-CLOV (700 kg/ha) systems. Total digestible nutrient content (TDN) of FR-CLOV (63.6%) and BR-PEA-BRASS (62.0%) was greater (P < 0.0001) than both MBG-SF (51.7%) and HBG-ALF (49.3%) forages. Crude protein (CP) was greatest in FR-CLOV (15.2% P = 0.0012) intermediate in BR-PEA-BRASS (10.0%) and HBG-ALF (8.5%), and least in MBG-SF (6.6%). Steer performance was greatest when grazing HBG-ALF (87 kg/ha) paddocks, which was similar (P = 0.31) to FR-CLOV (62 kg/ha) and similar (P = 0.10) MBG-SF (51 kg/ha), but greater (P = 0.01) than BAR-PEA-BRASS (26 kg/ha). Enteric methane concentration from steers was the least when grazing BR-PE-BRAS (19.7g/kg DMI), followed by FR-CLOV (22.4g/kg DMI), MBG-SF (23.4g/kg DMI) and finally HBG-ALF (28.1g/kg DMI). In summary, BR-PE-BRAS and HBG-ALF forage systems provided the greatest DMY, while steer average daily gain (ADG) grazing HBG-ALF forage outperformed steers on BR-PE-BRAS paddocks. Forage energy and protein was greater in annual forage systems FR-CLOV and BR-PE-BRAS, compared with perennial forage systems. Enteric methane levels were the lowest in the steers grazing BR-PE-BRAS forage.
318 A 99-year journey on the development of Canadian forages for livestock production
Authors: McGeough Emma J , Acharya Surya
Published: September 2024

Perennial and annual forages are important feed ingredients in production of livestock in Canada. Cattle, bison, sheep and other ruminants play a key role in converting human inedible fiber from forages and other crops into high quality protein and energy for human consumption. Focusing on the cattle sector, this presentation will examine the development of forages in the Canadian landscape for the production of beef cattle for both grazing and feeding under confinement. This will include evaluating the implications on animal productivity and health, economic viability and environmental sustainability including greenhouse gas emissions, as well as land and water use. We will explore mechanisms by which grassland management has improved, how the breeding and development of perennial and annual forage varieties has improved nutritive value, increased yield, and lowered anti-nutritional factors to reduce the occurrence of metabolic disorders, all of which have been critical to the constant goal of improving the success and competitiveness of beef production. The paradigm of forage production has been further pushed in recent decades to extend the grazing season to maintain cattle on pasture during the fall and winter seasons during which both standing and conserved forages may be used. The use of novel forages and new ways in which to use existing forages in a bid to decrease overwintering costs has been critical to enhance the success of the cow-calf sector. Forage production has faced significant challenges with the increased pressure from production of high value annual crops and frequency of extreme weather events which presents ever growing tribulations for beef producers. Perennial forages, however, offer advantages for environmental resiliency such as carbon sequestration, water conservation, and prevention of soil erosion that may offer important opportunities to address these challenges.
316 A 99-year journey on the use of by-product feeds in Canadian livestock production
Authors: Terry Stephanie A , Ominski Kim H
Published: September 2024

For centuries livestock have had a significant role as ‘upcyclers’, with the ability to convert inedible food into high quality protein in the form of meat, milk, or fiber. Currently, a large portion of the feed utilized in livestock production systems includes grains, pulses and oilseeds, as well as other commodities that fail to reach the quality grade required for human consumption. In addition to these on-farm or near farm losses, by-products from food and industrial processing including alcohol and biofuel production, oilseeds, as well as fruit and vegetable processing generate significant waste. The Canadian livestock industry has progressed from using these by-products of crop production and food processing, to including surplus food that is redirected from landfills to livestock feed. In Canada, total annual food loss and waste equates to 35.5 million MT of which 32% is avoidable. Food loss is associated with low-quality or human indigestible by-products during the production, processing, and distribution stages of the supply chain, whereas food waste is defined as food that is not consumed at the retail, food service, and consumer stages of the food supply chain. Diverting food loss and waste to livestock and poultry feed has important environmental, economic, and social impacts, including improved global food security, and decreasing greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions, as well as land and water use. There are global efforts to improve the utilization of both food loss and waste, however, challenges exist including economic viability, collection and distribution logistics, regulatory restrictions, and feed safety. A coordinated approach between livestock producers, food processors, feed suppliers, researchers, policy makers and retailers is critical for the development of successful strategies for inclusion of food loss and waste in livestock diets.