bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
152 Body Weight Standardized Cull Sow Non-edible Trim Loss Evaluation
Authors: Taylor William E , Humphrey Dalton C , Peyer Ben D , Stalder Kenneth J
Published: May 2021

Non-edible trim loss has been shown to reduce value in market hogs (Johnson et al., 2013). Non-edible trim loss from pork carcasses results from; adhesions, arthritis, and abscess (Keenlislide, 2005). Sow harvest facilities often encounter sow carcasses having one or more non-edible trim loss factors (Knauer, 2007). Non-edible trim loss observed repeatedly in high levels will result in carcass discounts to the seller. The objective of this study was to evaluate the economic impact of non-edible trim loss from cull sow carcasses. Data were collected as a convenience sample from a Midwestern cull-sow harvest facility. This facility focuses on harvesting high quality animals and harvesting “lean” or “boner” sows occurs relatively infrequently. For this study, trim was expressed as a percentage of carcass weight. At this harvest facility all carcasses have some non-edible trim loss. The average total pre-trim carcass weight was 149 kgs (n = 87). The relative percentage of non-edible trim loss was sorted into quartiles. Based on percent trim and average carcass weight the quartiles were classified as 1st Qu. = normal trim (0.5% – 1.2%, n = 22), 2nd Qu. = low trim (1.2% – 2.1%, n =20), 3rd Qu. = medium trim (2.1% – 3.4%, n = 21), and 4th Qu. = high trim (3.4% – 20.9%, n = 22). A 5-year average cull sow price (USDA, ERS) was utilized to calculate the economic loss represented from each quartile of percentage trim. Normal trim, low trim and medium trim showed to have low economic impact. High trim loss had an average economic loss of $9.37 (s.d. = 6.9) on a standardized basis. Substantial economic losses are observed when high trim is measured. Additional work is needed in identifying significant trim loss prior to harvest.
151 A Web Application to Establish Customized Feeding Program and Nutrient Specifications for Highly Prolific Sows
Authors: Jerez-Bogota Kevin S , Ramirez-Camba Christian D , Navales Ron A , Vier Carine M , Lu Ning , Cast Wayne R , Dritz Steve S , Orlando Uislei A
Published: May 2021

A web application was developed to provide a dynamic feeding program for PIC maternal dam lines during gilt development, gestation, peri-partum, lactation and wean-to-service interval (WSI). These recommendations for each production phase are based on peer-reviewed large-scale commercial research. The tool was developed using the Shiny package of R and includes CSS themes, html widgets, and JavaScript actions. Inputs, include pigs weaned per sow per year (PWSY), farrowing rate (FR), total born (TB), replacement rate, the existing feeding program of the breeding herd and the diet energy and standardized ileal digestible (SID) lysine (Lys) levels. Outputs include the feeding program, nutrient specifications and estimates of economic opportunity and performance improvement. The feeding program is based on user-defined energy and SID Lys levels for the gestation and lactation diets and the PIC nutrient recommendations for the breeding herd. Correspondingly, recommended specifications of other nutrients in the diets are provided and calculated based on the recommended feeding program. The tool provides economic and productivity opportunity analysis by comparing the PIC recommendations and the current user feeding programs. Improvement in PWSY is driven by the energy intake impact on caliper score during breeding and farrowing and consequently to FR and TB. This web application can be used by nutritionists and production managers to compare their current feeding practices to PIC recommendations for highly prolific sows. This will aid in their decision-making process regarding nutrition and feeding programs considering productivity and profitability outcomes.
153 Characteristics of Animal Science Graduate Students Associated with Their Professional Interest in Statistics and Career Path
Authors: Serão Nick V , Petry Amy L , Sanglard Leticia P , Rossoni-Serão Mariana C , Bundy Jennifer M
Published: May 2021

Statistical training is a major component in the education of animal science graduate students (ASGS). Although most graduate courses in animal science require ASGS to take credits in statistics courses, ASGS differ on their educational and professional interest in statistics. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify associations between the overall graduate and statistical training of ASGS with the statistical interest related to their professional career path. Data from a nationwide statistical training survey was used and included information on 381 ASGS from 42 universities. Analyses focused on identifying overall graduate and statistical training factors associated with ASGS’s answers to the following questions: “Gives statistical advices to lab peers” (No/Yes), “Gives statistical advices to others outside the lab” (No/Yes), “Desired career path after graduation” (Academia/Industry/Other), and “Desire to be involved in statistical analysis in desired career path” (No/Somewhat/Yes). Data were analyzed using logistic regression model including 11 fixed effects, such as degree being pursued (MS/PhD), years of graduate education (covariate), previous professional experience (No/Yes), preferred stats software (SAS/R/SAS and R/Other), etc. There were significant associations (P < 0.05) for all four analyses. ASGS were more likely to give statistical advice to lab peers as they had more years of graduate education [odds-ratio (OR)=1.33], had additional training in statistics (OR=1.92), and had analyzed their own dataset (OR=4.46). ASGS with and without previous professional experience had greater desire to go to industry (OR=1.3) and academia (OR=1.23), respectively. ASGS interested in being involved in statistics in their future career had greater years of graduate education (OR=1.31) and credits in stats courses (OR=1.31), had previously completed a graduate degree (OR=1.49), had previous research experience (OR=1.5), and had additional training in statistics (OR=1.54). These results indicate that a variety of experiences prior to and during graduate ASGS education are associated with their interest in statistics.
154 Efficacy of a Virtual Operation Main Street in Changing Perceptions of Pork Production
Authors: Tesch Logan L , Samuel Ryan S , Eidson Al S , Thaler Robert C
Published: May 2021

The objective of the virtual Operation Main Street (OMS) program was to provide a live, interactive experience to educate audiences anywhere in the world about modern pork production. National Pork Board’s OMS began in 2004 to train pork producers to share their stories to improve the image of pig farming. Since its inception, they have trained >1,300 producers influencing >240,000 people However, there are locations that don’t have access to OMS speakers, and because presenters use slides, it doesn’t provide a real-time experience of being in the barn. Therefore, the virtual OMS was developed through a collaborative effort between the National Pork Board, Eidson & Partners, and South Dakota State University (SDSU). After a formal interview process, students participate in a 2-day OMS training. Students are trained to cover a set of defined speaking points, but discuss them in their own words. Each live tour is conducted in the SDSU Swine Unit, and is done entirely by the student on her/his own cellphone. Tours last approximately 10 minutes, with the audience asking questions at any time through a moderator at the venue. The first virtual tour was given on December 7, 2017, and since then there have been a total of 133 tours impacting 24,558 people. Audiences include Veterinary Colleges, high schools, the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals. In the last year, 51 tours were given to 1,678 people in 22 different states. Respondents to a Google survey offered at the end of every virtual tour stated the presentation and tour resulted in a >60% increase in a positive opinion of the pork industry. Virtual OMS is an impactful method to dispel myths about modern pig farming, and creates a personal connection between the faces of pork production and consumers.
44 Effects of Decreasing Corn Particle Size on Metabolizable Energy and Proportions of Fecal Volatile Fatty Acids in Gestating Sows
Authors: Kort Rachel , Nichols Gage E , Evans Caitlin E , Holen Julia P , Wecker Haley , Lourenco Jeferson M , Callaway Todd R , Stark Charles R , Paulk Chad B
Published: May 2021

The objective of the first experiment was to determine the effects of corn particle size on the diet apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of protein (CP), digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME) and N-corrected ME (AMEn) in addition to estimating the ME of corn in gestating sows. A total of 27 sows, during the second phase of gestation, were fed a common diet manufactured with corn ground to one of 3 target particle sizes (dgw): 400, 800, or 1200 µm. Titanium dioxide (0.25%) was included in the diet as an indigestible marker for digestibility calculations. Sows were fed experimental diets for 7 days to allow for diet adaptation before a 2-day collection period of urine and fecal samples. Reducing dgw of corn from 1,200 to 400 µm increased (linear, P < 0.01) ATTD CP and GE, DE, ME, AMEn and calculated ME of corn. The objective of the second experiment was to determine the effects of corn particle size on the total concentration and molar proportions of volatile fatty acids (VFA) in the feces of gestating sows. A total of 27 sows were fed treatments similar to Exp. 1 from day 61 to 82 of gestation. On day-82 and 83 of gestation, 2 fecal grab samples were collected for VFA analyses. Sows fed diets with decreasing corn dgw had increased (quadratic, P = 0.021) fecal acetic acid proportions, and decreased propionic (quadratic, P = 0.019) and valeric acid (P = 0.005). In conclusion, for every 100 µm decrease in corn dgw from 1,200 to 400 µm, corn ME value increased by 28.6 kcal/kg. Additionally, decreasing corn particle size led to an increase in the proportion of acetic acid and a decrease in propionic and valeric acid in fecal samples of gestating sows.
56 The Effect of a Developmental Bacillus Direct-fed Microbial on Nursery Pig Growth Performance and Health
Authors: Rulon Karissa N , Richert Jacob A , Thayer Morgan T , Schinckel Allan P , Asmus Matthew D , Jones Daniel B , Radcliffe John S , Richert Brian T
Published: May 2021

A developmental Bacillus based direct-fed microbial (DFM) was added to nursery pig diets to evaluate the effect on growth and health in two 35-d randomized complete block design experiments blocked on initial BW and sex. Experiment 1 used 315 weaned pigs (20.1 d of age; 6.11 kg initial BW) allotted to one of three diets: 1) Negative Control (NC; no antibiotics but with pharmacological Zn or Cu), 2) NC+DFM 0.55x109CFU, 3) NC+DFM 1.1x109CFU. Experiment 2 used 376 weaned pigs (17.8 d of age; 5.99 kg initial BW) allotted to one of four diets, the same 3 diets from Experiment 1 plus a lower inclusion rate: 4) NC+DFM 0.275x109CFU. Both studies had 15 replicates/treatment, 6–7 pigs/pen. Pigs were budget fed phase 1–3 diets (1.13 kg/pig; 2.72 kg/pig; and 6.35 kg/pig, respectively) and ad libitum fed Phase 4 diet to d35. For Experiment 1, during week 1 pigs fed the DFM tended to linearly decrease ADFI (P = 0.086) and linearly increase G:F (P = 0.085). During day 21–35 of Experiment 1 pigs fed DFM linearly increased ADG (P = 0.035) and quadratically increased ADFI (P = 0.027). Overall for experiment 1, ADG (P = 0.114) and ADFI (P = 0.104) tended to quadratically increase and G:F linearly increased (P = 0.012) with increasing concentrations of DFM. Experiment 2; during week 1 and 3 ADFI (P = 0.084, P = 0.050, respectively) quadratically increased and G:F (P = 0.081; P = 0.022, respectively) quadratically decreased as DFM increased in the diet. During d21–35 of experiment 2, ADG (P = 0.064) quadratically increased and G:F (P = 0.012) quadratically decreased as DFM increased. Overall for Experiment 2 ADFI numerically increased (4.3%) with no increase in ADG, resulting in a quadratic decrease in G:F (P = 0.010) as the DFM increased in the diet. Summarizing these two studies, the DFM product had its greatest effect increasing ADFI while inconsistently impacting gain and efficiency.
54 Relationships Between Heat Stress and Behavioral Responses with Reproductive Traits of Maternal-line Gilts
Authors: Cleaver Kristen N , Hill Brooklyn A , Johnson Jay S , Brito Luiz F
Published: May 2021

Heat stress (HS) during summer months can negatively affect reproductive efficiency and sow productivity. This study was designed to evaluate potential relationships between HS sensitivity and behavior with litter characteristics in replacement gilts. A total of 61 replacement gilts (108.8± 10.4 kg BW; 8 repetitions; 9d/repetition), were tested from February to May 2020 at the USDA-ARS Food Animal Behavior Laboratory in West Lafayette, IN. Pigs were housed (2/pen) in thermoneutral (TN; 22.6± 1.6⁰C) conditions and their behavior was recorded for 5 d. On d 6, gilts were subjected to an open field test and novel object test. Heart rate, number of escape attempts, and vocalizations were recorded during behavior testing. Vaginal temperature monitors were inserted to record body temperature (TB) every 15 min. Gilts were individually housed and exposed to cyclic HS (28.2± 0.97⁰C nighttime to 36.9± 1.9⁰C daytime; 46± 15.4% relative humidity) on d 7 to 9. Feed was provided ad libitum and feed intake was recorded daily. During the HS challenge, respiration rate (RR), skin (ear, shoulder, rump, and tail) temperature, and posture were recorded every 2 h from 0800 to 2000 h. Following the HS challenge, gilts were transported to the Purdue University swine farm, and gilts that displayed signs of estrus were artificially inseminated (253±29 d of age) between May and September 2020. At farrowing, litter characteristics were obtained and included total number of piglets born, total number of piglets born alive, average litter birth weight, total number of piglets weaned, and average weaning weight of the litter. Correlations between behavior, HS response, and litter characteristics were obtained using JMP 15 software. The preliminary analysis indicated no significant interactions (P < 0.05) between RR or TB with litter characteristics. However additional records are currently being collected, which might reveal important trends among the traits analyzed.
57 The Impact of Functional Teat Number on Piglet Survival and Sow Efficiency
Authors: Obermier Dalton , Eickhoff Megan , Mote Benny E , Uitermarkt Amanda , Frobose Hyatt , Borg Bart
Published: May 2021

Pre-weaning mortalities have become a pressing issue in modern swine production. Litter size at birth has greatly increased through direct genetic selection. Unfortunately, little emphasis was placed on improving functional teat number, resulting in a nutrient access shortage. Therefore, a total of 750 sows consisting of three genetic lines in a commercial barn in Nebraska, USA, were used to evaluate the impact of functional teat number on piglet survival. Teat traits recorded at farrowing included total teat number (TT), functional teat number (FT), and non-functional teat number (NFT); with population means of 14.84 (1.21), 14.55 (1.30), and 0.28 (0.56), respectively. Production traits recorded included total number born (TNB), wean number (WN), total pre-weaning mortality (PWM), and post-cross foster mortality (CFPWM). The lm function within RStudio was used to estimate regressions, with parity and piglets placed (PP) used as covariates for WN and CFPWM, and parity, PP, and TNB for PWM. One additional FT increased WN (P < 0.01; 0.33), and reduced PWM (P < 0.01; -3.04%) and reduced CFPWM (P < 0.01; -3.71%). A subset of 274 sows were used to determine the effects of increasing functional teats on sow and piglet efficiency. Additional traits recorded included sow average daily feed intake (ADFI), backfat loss (BF) and average piglet weaning weight (WW). Parity, ADFI, backfat-entry, and WN were used as covariates for BF; parity, backfat-entry, and WN for ADFI; and parity, PP, ADFI, and WN were used for estimating WW. Regression estimates showed that an additional functional teat had no significant impact (P > 0.05) on ADFI, BF, or WW. Taken together, these results suggest that improving functional teat number does not impact ADFI or BF for sows and does not influence average piglet weaning weight, but it does decrease PWM resulting in more pigs weaned per litter.
47 Effects of Lactobacillus and Bacillus Probiotics on Pre-ruminating Calf Growth Performance and Efficiency
Authors: Bowman Sydney M , Quantz Steven T , Rehberger Tom , Habib Kellen , Smith Kristen , Boomer W , Tarpoff Anthony J , Bradford Barry J , Gragg Sara E , Jones Cassandra K
Published: May 2021

Lactobacillus and Bacillus probiotics may serve as an alternative to antibiotics in milk replacer for pre-ruminant calves by altering gastrointestinal microflora to prevent the proliferation of harmful bacteria. However, there are limited studies evaluating their impact on calf growth and efficiency. The objective of this trial was to discover the impact of probiotic-containing milk replacer on pre-ruminating calf growth performance. A total of 44 pre-ruminant calves (50% Angus/50% Holstein, average weight 39.3 kg + 7.5 kg) were fed milk replacer with either no probiotic or 1.25x10^9 colony forming units/head/day of a probiotic blending containing Lactobacillus and two different Bacillus species (Church & Dwight Animal Nutrition (Princeton, NJ). Calves were blocked by age and randomly assigned within block to one of two treatments in a randomized complete block design. Calf was the experimental unit, with 22 calves per treatment. Calf weight and hip height was measured on d 0 and 30 to calculate average daily gain (ADG) and average growth per day. Calves were offered 1.36 kg milk replacer [15% dry matter (DM)] twice daily and up to 0.5 kg starter feed (88% DM) once daily. Refusals were recorded to calculate average daily intake and gain to feed ratio (G:F). Initial weight differed (P = 0.020) between treatments, and was therefore used as a covariate in all response criteria. Calves fed milk replacer with probiotic had greater (P < 0.05) ADG (0.53 vs. 0.42 kg/d, respectively) and G:F (0.50 vs. 0.41, respectively) than those fed the control. There was no evidence (P >0.05) that probiotic inclusion impacted hip height on d 30 or daily intake. In summary, Lactobacillus and Bacillus probiotic inclusion in milk replacer improved calf growth performance without impacting intake. Subsequent research is warranted to elucidate mode of action and evaluate impact relative to an antibiotic-containing positive control.
45 Effects of Grazing Management Systems on Forage Quality, Forage Availability, and Cow Performance
Authors: Jurak Meghan , Johnson Michelle , Neira Lucas T , McCann Joshua C , Shike Daniel W
Published: May 2021

The objectives were to compare the effects of two rotational grazing systems on forage quality, forage availability, and cow performance. Multiparous, fall-calving beef cows (n = 360; BW = 597±62 kg) were stratified by body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), age, and sire and allotted to 6 groups. Groups were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: 8-paddock system rotated every 5 d or 6-paddock system rotated every 7 d. All paddocks (6.1 ha) contained endophyte-infected tall fescue and were grazed in two rounds. Cow BW and BCS were obtained on d 0, 28, 56, and 84. Forage heights were measured using a rising plate meter upon the groups entering and exiting each paddock. Forage samples were clipped from each paddock for proximate analysis. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. During the first and second grazing rounds, grazing management system had no effects (P ≥ 0.11) on dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and crude protein of the forage. The 8-paddock system tended (P = 0.09) to have greater forage availability than the 6-paddock system at the end of each rotation in the first round with 3,665 and 3,263 kg DM/ha, respectively. However, grazing system did not affect (P = 0.13) forage availability at the end of the rotation in the second round. Cow BW was not affected (P ≥ 0.63) by grazing system on d 0, 28, or 56. On d 84, cows rotationally grazed through an 8-paddock system had greater (P = 0.04) BW than those who grazed the 6-paddock system. Treatment had no effect (P ≥ 0.37) on BCS at any time point. In conclusion, grazing management system did not affect forage quality; however, the 8-paddock system resulted in greater forage availability which led to greater cow BW.
48 Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activities of Phytophenols Against Bacterial Pathogens That Cause Liver Abscesses in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Roubicek Cierra , Amachawadi Raghavendra G , Nagaraja T G , Li Yonghui , Wang Jinrong , Salih Harith M
Published: May 2021

Liver abscesses occur in finishing cattle fed high-grain, low-roughage diets. Cattle with abscessed livers do not show any clinical signs and are detected only at slaughter. Liver abscesses, which account for 67% of all liver abnormalities in cattle slaughtered in the United States, are of major economic concern to the beef industry. Fusobacterium necrophorum, Trueperella pyogenes, and Salmonella enterica, particularly the serotype Lubbock, are the main etiologic agents. Currently, the control of liver abscesses is based on in-feed use of antibiotics. The emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics use in animals is a public health concern. Plant-based phenolic compounds, called phytophenols, are known to have antimicrobial properties. Our objectives were to evaluate antimicrobial activities of phytophenols on the liver abscess bacterial pathogens. Phytophenols extracted from rosemary, green tea, grapeseed, organic goji berry, and green coffee were selected for testing. The phytophenols were extracted using 75% aqueous acetone and total phenolic content was determined by a spectrophotometric analysis. Bacteria were cultured in Mueller-Hinton broth (S. Lubbock and T. pyogenes) or anaerobic brain-heart infusion broth (F. necrophorum with and without phytophenols, at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours and bacterial concentrations were determined. If phytophenol was inhibitory, a micro-broth dilution method was used to quantify the inhibition. Phytophenols from green tea, grape seed, and rosemary inhibited T. pyogenes. Further studies are ongoing to investigate different concentrations of phenolic compounds on the pathogens. Phytophenols that inhibit the pathogens may have the potential to be used as feed additives to prevent liver abscesses.
50 Long-term Motility of Semen Following Breeding Soundness Exams for Yearling Beef Bulls
Authors: Seltzer Garrett R , Hartman Ashley R , Tucker Sharon K , Grieger David M
Published: May 2021

To find an in vitro predictor of in vivoM/em> semen motility prompted this study. Our objective was to evaluate semen motility for an 8-hour period immediately following a breeding soundness exam. Ejaculates from 52 Angus and 56 Charolais bulls were evaluated. Motility, morphology, scrotal circumference and pH of ejaculate were evaluated at the time of collection. Ejaculates were then extended using a one to one ratio and incubated in a water bath held at 37 degrees Celsius and evaluated hourly. Motility was evaluated hourly for 8 hours, or until motility of the sample reached zero. Data were analyzed for breed and hourly effects using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. There was statistical evidence for difference (P < 0.0001) between breeds for motility over time. Angus ejaculates had higher pH values than Charolais ejaculates showing an association between breed and pH (6.82 vs 6.76, respectively). Primary spermatozoa abnormalities were greater (P < 0.0001) for Angus bulls compared to Charolais bulls (13.33% vs. 10.91%, respectively). Scrotal circumference between breeds tended to be different (P < 0.07), with Charolais bulls having a larger scrotal circumference compared to Angus bulls (38.29 vs. 38.03 centimeters, respectively). There was no difference (P > 0.05) between breeds for secondary abnormalities. There was a significant interaction (P < 0.01) between breed and time of motility measurement. Angus bull’s motility decreased drastically until hour 4, it then had a more gradual decrease until hour 8. Charolais bulls had a more gradual decrease in the percentage of motile sperm over time. In conclusion, there was evidence for difference between breeds for pH, primary spermatozoa abnormalities, and long-term motility, and a scrotal tendency. Understanding the effects of breed and individual biological factors may help producers adjust BSE expectations and lead to future research in long term semen motility.
53 Relationships Between Fecal Characteristics, Ruminal Ph, Intake and Digestion in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Brown Chessa , Huizenga Kaylie , McCann Joshua C
Published: May 2021

The objectives were to: 1) determine the relationship of fecal characteristics with ruminal pH, dry matter intake (DMI) and dry matter digestion and 2) determine the ability of fecal characteristics to predict ruminal pH, DMI, and dry matter digestion. Data were collected in two metabolism studies using eighteen ruminally cannulated steers (n = 36). Each study was a completely randomized design evaluating the effect of a direct-fed microbial during an acidosis challenge. Ruminal pH, DMI, total tract DM digestion and fecal characteristics (fecal pH, washed fecal particle size and mucin casts) were measured for 4 d after the acidosis challenge. Rumen pH was not correlated (P ≥ 0.15) with mucin cast score or mean fecal particle size but was negatively associated with fecal pH (r = -0.42; P < 0.01). Total tract DM digestion was correlated (r ≥ 0.53; P ≤ 0.02) to fecal pH and fecal particle sizes between 1180 and 2360 µm. Dry matter intake was correlated (r ≥ 0.41; P < 0.01) to mean fecal particle size and fecal particle sizes between 2360 and 4750 µm. Multiple regressions were performed with the GLMSELECT procedure of SAS 9.4 using stepwise selection. Ruminal pH was best predicted (r2 = 0.20) by fecal pH and fecal particle size between 1400 and 1700 µm. Total tract DM digestion was best predicted (r2 = 0.92) by fecal pH, mucin cast score, and fecal particle size between 3350 and 1700 µm. Dry matter intake was best predicted (r2 = 0.51) by mean fecal particle size, fecal pH and fecal particle size between 1400 and 850 µm. Overall, results indicated fecal pH was correlated to ruminal pH and total tract DM digestion. Fecal characteristics including washed particle size can also predict total tract DM digestion in feedlot cattle.
42 Activity and Bone Lesion Analysis on Gilt Retention to the Breeding Herd
Authors: Hauxwell Kathlyn , Ostrand Lexi M , Schmidt Ty B , Psota Eric , Mote Benny E , Rohrer Gary A
Published: May 2021

A consistent theme in swine production is to increase efficiency and reduce input costs. In this study, sow activity traits and lesions were analyzed to identify associations with lameness and gilt retention. Gilts (n = 73) were culled based on structural unsoundness as determined by an experienced herdsman. Females (n = 132) that had been retained for breeding, but either did not show estrus at an appropriate age or were excessed due to limited farrowing space were used as controls. Gilts were recorded with the NUtrack System for 1 week prior to selection. The NUtrack System records distance travelled (m), time standing (s), eating (s), and laying (s), angle rotated (degrees) and average speed (m/s). Animals were humanely harvested in a USDA inspected abattoir. Both ends of the humerus and the femur head were evaluated for osteochondrosis or osteoarthritis lesions. Joint lesions were categorized as Major or Minor lesions. Major lesions were severe osteochondrosis lesions where cartilage was severely fractured or cartilage exhibited a region of necrosis larger than 2 millimeters in diameter. Minor lesions were defined creases or indentations in the cartilage or where abnormal blood flow existed in bone tissue underneath cartilage. Ninety-eight animals were identified with minor or major lesions (28 cull and 70 control). Unexpectedly, chi-square analysis did identify control animals as having higher incidences of minor or major lesions than cull animals (p < 0.05). Data were analyzed using logistic regression (RStudio V1.2.5033) with farrowing group included in the model. No NUtrack trait was predictive of joint lesions (P > 0.1). However, time standing (P < 0.001) and average speed (P < 0.05) were significantly associated with being retained for breeding. These data suggest that animal behavior and movement, as analyzed by NUtrack, can enhance herdsman efforts in making culling decisions of breeding animals.
PSIII-4 Determining the Efficacy and Safety of Differing Caliber/Ammunition Combinations for the Humane Euthanization and Subsequent Mass Depopulation of Market Weight Pigs
Authors: Stahl Chad A , Fangman John T , Fangman Thomas J
Published: May 2021

The objective of this proof of concept exercise was to validate a field applicable methodology designed to objectively assess the multiple caliber/ammunition combinations available for the safe and humane euthanization of market weight pigs during mass depopulation events. Heads of an equal number of barrows and gilts (n = 64) were randomly assigned to one of four caliber/ammunition combinations consisting of the .22 LR, .22 Mag, 0.38 Special, and 9mm. Fully jacketed (FMJ) ammunition was discharged from each of four unique firearms while ensuring that the distance from the muzzle to the forehead was consistent. The MIXED procedure of SAS was used to test the fixed effects of sex and caliber. No differences in skull thickness existed between sex (P = 0.32) or caliber/ammunition combination (P = 0.34). There was no difference in entrance wound diameter between the .38 Special and the 9mm (P = 0.15) yet the entrance wound diameter of the .38 Special and 9mm was larger than both the .22 LR and .22 Mag, respectfully (P < 0.0001). The 9mm bullets traveled further into the ballistic gel (P < 0.0001) and the furthest total distance (P < 0.0001). Bullets from the .38 Special traveled further into the ballistic gel and a further total distance than both the .22 LR and .22 Mag (P < 0.0001). There was no difference in the measurable trauma area of the brain for the 9mm bullets compared to .38 Special bullets (P = 0.83). The measurable trauma area of the brain was greater for the 9mm and .38 Special bullets when compared to both the .22 LR and .22 Mag (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, the efficacy and safety of the multiple caliber/ammunition combinations available for use in the euthanization of market weight pigs can be objectively quantified, replicated, and reported.
PSIII-7 Relationship of Age and Genetics with the Methylation Profile of Beef Cattle
Authors: Ribeiro Andre M , Wijesena Hiruni , Ciobanu Daniel C , Horvath Steve , Spangler Matthew L
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to compare models for the prediction of cow age from DNA methylation profiles and estimate the heritability of the proportion of methylated sites (PM) and methylation status at each site (MS). Methylation data from blood samples of cows (n=136) were generated from the HorvathMammalMethylChip40 array that consists of 34,324 CpG sites that mapped to the bovine genome. Methylation status was determined by the distribution of the methylation values, with values above, within and below 2 standard deviations classified as methylated (2), intermediately methylated (1) and unmethylated (0), respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to a (co)variance methylation status matrix. The first and second PC accounted for 25.65% and 9% of the total variance, respectively. Five Bayesian models (Bayesian ridge regression, BayesA, BayesB, BayesCπ and Bayesian LASSO) were implemented with the BGLR package in R. Bootstrapping validation (n=400) was used to evaluate the tested models, with 102 and 34 individuals in the training and validation sets, respectively. The correlation between the predicted and true age was high (r = 0.97 to 0.99). A BayesA model performed the best (r = 0.99, MSE = 0.11 and slope = 0.93), while Bayesian LASSO was the least accurate (r = 0.97, MSE = 0.26 and slope = 0.88). Heritability was estimated using GBLUP implemented in the BGLR package. The mean (SD) heritability estimate for PM was 0.46 ± 0.10 and the heritability of MS ranged from 0.18 to 0.73 (mean = 0.33). The 10% of sites with the highest heritability (343 sites; mean = 0.62) were located in exon (91), intron (84), intergenic (152), and promoter (16) regions. The largest number of these top sites (31) were located on chromosome 3 in genetic or intergenic regions close to transcription factor binding sites (i.e., FOXO6, ELAV4 and LMO4).
PSII-15 Dietary Supplementation of Bacillus Subtilis Modified Intestinal Microbiome of Weaned Pigs Differently to Antibiotics
Authors: Jinno Cynthia , He Yijie , Liu Yanhong
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to compare the dietary effects of Bacillus subtilis and antibiotics in intestinal microbiota of pigs experimentally infected with F18 E. coli. Forty-eight weaned pigs (6.17 ± 0.36 kg BW) were individually housed and randomly allotted in one of four treatments with 12 replicates per treatment: negative control (NC), positive control (PC), antibiotics, and B. subtilis (probiotics). Pigs in NC and PC were fed with basal diet without or with E. coli, respectively. Pigs with antibiotics and probiotics were challenged with E. coli and supplemented with 50 mg/kg of carbadox or 500 mg/kg of B. subtilis, respectively. After 7 days habituation period, pigs were inoculated with F18 E. coli at 1010 CFU/3 mL dose for three consecutive days. All pigs were euthanized to collect feces and digesta from jejunum, ileum, and colon on d 21 post-infection to perform 16S rRNA sequencing at the V4 hypervariable region. Downstream analysis was performed using QIIME2 (2019.4) and R. Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Conover test was used to analyze data in R. Colon digesta and feces have greater (P < 0.05) alpha diversity than ileal and jejunal digesta. No difference was observed among treatments at different intestinal sites. Bray-Curtis PCoA plots displayed pronounced clusters of all treatment groups throughout all sites. Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria were more (P < 0.05) abundant but Firmicutes were less (P < 0.05) abundant in ileal digesta of pigs fed with antibiotics than pigs in probiotics. Firmicutes were more (P < 0.05) abundant in colon and feces of NC than of antibiotics. Bifidobacterium was least (P < 0.05) abundant throughout all sites and Prevotella 1 was most (P < 0.05) abundant in colon of pigs fed with antibiotics compared with other treatments. In conclusion, both B. subtilis and carbadox supplementation modified gut microbiota of weaned pigs challenged with F18 E. coli. However, the impacts are different and need further investigation.
PSII-13 Supplemental Effects of Unrefined Fish Oil, Powdered/Coated Docosahexaenoic Acid on the Growth Performance in Weaner Pigs
Authors: Upadhaya Santi Devi , Park Hyun Ju , Kim Inho , Jung Hong Ik , Li Yanjiao
Published: May 2021

A total of 18 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) with an average body weight of (within 24 h after farrowing) were used for a 5- week experiment to determine the effects of varying dietary Valine, Lysine (V:L) ratios on performance and fecal score in lactating sows and litters. Sows were raised in individual pens, and assigned to one of three experimental diets consisting different concentration of Valine, Lysine ratios (0.83%, 0.85% and 0.88%). sows body weight was significantly improved by 0.85% valine and lysine ratio compared to 0.85% and 0.88%. However, no significant difference were observed on sows body weight loss, back fat thickness, average daily feed intake and days to return to estrus of sows during the three experiment period. In addition, growth performance of piglet weaning weight were significantly improved by 0.85% valine and lysine ratio compared to 0.85% and 0.88%. Morever, piglet average daily gain was significantly increased 0.88% valine and lysine ratio compared to 0.83% and 0.85%. The three dietary treatments had a significant differences (P>0.05) on fecal score of sows, farrowing and 14 d old age piglets were significantly observed by valine and lisiune ratio. In conclusion, Valine, Lysine had no positive effects on the fecal score of sows and litter during lactation and also no positive effect on gut and its microflora.
PSII-23 Addition of Hydrogen Chloride to Collection Bags or Containers Did Not Change Basal Endogenous Losses or Digestibility of Amino Acid in Corn, Soybean Meal, or Wheat Middlings Fed to Growing Pigs
Authors: Lee Su A , Blavi Laia , Navarro Diego , Stein Hans H
Published: May 2021

The hypothesis that apparent ileal digestibility (AID), basal endogenous losses, and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of AA are not affected by adding acid to collection containers or bags used to collect ileal digesta from pigs was tested. Twenty-four barrows (initial BW: 77.8 kg) that had a T-cannula installed in the distal ileum were fed diets for three 7-d periods. Corn, soybean meal, and wheat middlings were the sole AA sources in each diet and an N-free diet was also used. Within each period, each of the 4 diets was fed to 6 pigs. Among the 6 pigs, digesta from 3 pigs were collected in bags containing no HCl, whereas 40 mL of 3N HCl was included in the bags used to collect digesta from the remaining 3 pigs. Every other bag collected from each pig was emptied into a container without adding HCl, whereas the remaining bags were added to a container along with 40 mL of 3N HCl for each bag. All digesta were stored at –20 °C immediately after collection. Data were first analyzed using a model that included feed ingredient, HCl in bags, HCl in containers, and all 2-way and 3-way interactions as fixed effects. No 3-way interactions were significant, and data were, therefore, analyzed independently for each diet as a 2 × 2 factorial. Results indicated that there were no interactions between adding HCl to collection bags and to containers, and no effects of adding HCl to collection bags or containers for AID, basal endogenous losses, or SID of most AA were observed (Table 1). In conclusion, if digesta are stored at –20 °C immediately after collection, it is not necessary to add acid to digesta collection bags or collection containers.
PSII-14 Supplementation of Bacillus Amyloquefaciens on Systemic Immunity of Weaned Pigs Experimentally Infected with a Pathogenic E. coli
Authors: Jinno Cynthia , Wong Braden T , Kluenemann Martina , Li Xunde , Liu Yanhong
Published: May 2021

The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of Bacillus amyloquefaciens on total and differential blood cell count in weaned pigs experimentally infected with a pathogenic E. coli. A total of 50 weaned pigs (7.41 ± 1.35 kg) were individually housed in disease containment rooms and randomly assigned to one of the 5 treatments: sham control (CON-), sham B. amyloquefaciens (BAM-), challenged control (CON+), challenged B. amyloquefaciens (BAM+) and challenged carbadox (CAR+). The experiment lasted 28 days with 7 days’ adaptation and 21 days after the first E. coli inoculation. The doses of F18 E. coli inoculum were 1010 CFU/3 mL oral dose daily for 3 consecutive days. Whole blood samples were collected from all pigs on d -7, and d 0, 7, 14, and 21 post infection (PI) to measure total and differential blood cell count by complete blood count (CBC) analysis. Supplementation of BAM or CAR increased (P < 0.05) either the percentage or the number of lymphocytes on d 0 before E. coli inoculation. E. coli challenge increased (P < 0.05) white blood cell (WBC) count on d 7 and 21 PI, while supplementation of BAM tended (P < 0.10) to have low WBC on d 7 PI and had lower (P < 0.05) WBC on d 21 PI compared with CON+. Pigs in BAM+ also had lower (P < 0.05) neutrophil count on d 14 PI, pigs fed with CAR had lower (P < 0.05) neutrophil count on d 14 and 21 PI, compared with pigs in CON+. No difference was observed in red blood cell profile among all treatments throughout the experiment. In conclusion, pigs fed with B. amyloquefaciens have similar systemic immune response to pigs in antibiotic group and have relatively lower systemic inflammation caused by E. coli compared with control group.
PSIII-19 The Effect of Xylanase on Finisher Pig Performance
Authors: Merriman Laura A , Wilcock Pete , Cordero Gustavo
Published: May 2021

The breakdown of long chain arabinoxylans into smaller chain xylo-oligomers by the use of xylanase results in a shift towards fiber utilizing bacteria resulting in production of small chain fatty acids and improved pig performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of xylanase (Econase XT; AB Vista) on finisher pig performance. A total of 598 pigs; (37.4 ± 1.0 kg) were fed a single-phase diet for 60 days. Pigs were assigned to two treatments; 0 (CTL) or 16,000 BXU/kg of xylanase (XYL) with 12 pen replicates and 24/25 pigs (mixed sex; gilts and boars) per treatment. The diet was based on wheat, barley, soybean meal, rapeseed meal, and wheat midds; SID Lys: 0.88%, NDF: 14.7%, and NE: 2090 kcal/kg. Average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were evaluated in phase 1 (0-26d), phase 2 (26-60d) and overall (0-60d). Liveability was measured per treatment. Data were analysed using JMP 12 using the standard least square platform and ANOVA was performed to determine significance at P < 0.05. The model included initial BW as a covariant. The results indicated that there was no effect of xylanase on liveweight, ADG or ADFI at any phase of the finisher period. The use of xylanase improved FCR in phase 2 (2.53 v 2.60: P < 0.05) and overall (2.44 v 2.49 P=0.03). No differences were seen in liveability (CTL; 96%; XYL 98%; P = 0.29). It can be concluded that the use of xylanase can be used in finisher feeds to improve FCR which is linked with greater energy utilisation that has been associated with greater fiber breakdown through xylanase use.
PSIII-20 Inclusion of a Live Yeast to Mixed Cereal Diets Improves Growth Performance of Nursery Pigs
Authors: Merriman Laura A , Cordero Gustavo , Wilcock Pete , Morales Joaquin
Published: May 2021

As an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters, live yeast supplementation has proven useful in reducing weaning stress and improving health and performance of piglets. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of a high concentrated live yeast product (20 billion CFU/g) supplemented in post-weaning piglet diets without antibiotics. A total of 144 pigs Pietrain × [LW×Landrace] (average initial BW = 8.55 ± 1.5 kg) weaned at 28 days of life were used for a 6-week growth study to determine post-weaning performance. Pigs were assigned to 2 treatments; 0 (Control group; CT) and 1 g of live yeast/kg (Yeast Supplemented group; YS) feed to 12 replicate pens of 6 pigs (3 barrows; 3 gilts). Average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were evaluated in pre-starter (days 0–14), starter (days 14–42) and in the whole nursery (days 0–42) periods. Data were analysed with ANOVA using PROC MIXED of SAS according to the completely randomized design. The model included initial BW as a covariant. Differences were deemed statistically significant when P ≤ 0.050 using a one tailed t-test. Live yeast supplementation improved ADG in starter (5.8%; P = 0.034) and in the whole nursery periods (7.0%; P = 0.045) compared with the CT group. Consequently, final BW was also higher in supplemented animals than in the CT (4.5%; P = 0.034). Differences in ADG were associated with differences in ADFI, higher in YS than in the CT group, both in starter (6.4%; P = 0.023) and in the whole nursery period (6.5%; P = 0.030). No differences were observed for FCR, mortality rate, and health incidences between dietary treatment groups. Therefore, supplementation of a live yeast to post-weaned piglets improved growth performance, confirming this product as an alternative to reduce antibiotic usage in nursery piglets.
PSIII-22 Impact of a Dietary Phytogenic Feed Additive on Growth Performance of Growing Finishing Pigs
Authors: Mercado Aileen Joy , Weeden Terry , Tran Huyen , Otto-Tice Emily , Raghavendra Rao Murali , Karnezos Peter , de Rodas Brenda
Published: May 2021

Abstract: Two experiments were conducted involving a total of 1560 pigs (25.82 kgs, PIC and Hypor) to evaluate if phytogenic feed additive (PFA), containing essential oils and pungent substances, has positive impact on growth performance of growing finishing pigs. Pens in each experiment (Study 1: 11 pens, 20 pigs per pen; Study 2: 15 pens, 20 pigs per pen) were randomly allocated to one of 3 dietary treatments containing 0, 68, or 136 g/ton of the PFA. Feeding program consisted of 3 feeding phases of 21 d each. Body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) and gain to feed (GF) were measured for each phase and overall. Performance data were analyzed using PROC MIX of SAS using RCBD design with dietary inclusion of PFA, pen location blocked within a study and initial BW as covariate. Orthogonal contrasts were used to determine linear or quadratic effect of PFA. No significant differences (P>0.20) were observed in ADG, ADFI or GF during the first 2 phases of the study. During phase 3 however, increasing the level of PFA resulted in a linear increase in ADG (P< 0.001) and a quadratic response in ADFI (P< 0.05) and GF (P< 0.05). Overall, linear improvements in ADG (P< 0.001) was observed with addition of PFA in the diets (+2.5%, +3% vs. NC). Similarly, increasing the level of PFA in the diet tended to linearly improve final BW (P< 0.10, +0.9%, +1.6% vs. NC). The results of this study indicate a positive impact of feeding a PFA on growth of growing-finishing pigs.
PSIII-11 Evaluating the Performance of Grow-finish Pigs Supplemented with Butipearl® Z and Kemtrace® Chromium During Natural Heat Stress Exposure
Authors: Knauer Mark , Mani Venkatesh , Marsteller Tom , Iseri Vanessa , Kremer Brian
Published: May 2021

Heat stress (HS) severely impacts swine leading to compromised barrier integrity, diminished intestinal health and decreased performance. ButiPEARL® Z (BPZ) is an encapsulated formulation of zinc and butyrate shown to alleviate the impact of HS by improving intestinal health. KemTRACE® Chromium (KTCr) is an organic trace mineral shown to decrease the impact of stress and improve glucose utilization, leading to muscle growth and improved performance. To test the efficacy of BPZ and KTCr on mitigating stress from natural heat exposure, a grow-finish trial was conducted from June-September. There were four treatments: negative control (NC), NC+.45kg BPZ, NC+.91kg BPZ and NC+1.82kg BPZ. Three BPZ treatments were also supplemented with 200ppb KTCr. Pigs (n=480) were randomly assigned to 96 pens at 22.5kg. Performance was measured at d0, 28, 56 and at marketing. From d56 to market, ADFI was greater (P< 0.05) for 0.45kg and 0.91kg BPZ when compared to NC and 1.82kg BPZ (3.40 and 3.35 vs. 3.26 and 3.27kg, respectively). Therefore, relationships between ADFI day 56 to market and ADFI day 0 to market with BPZ level were curvilinear (P< 0.05). Both market weight and overall ADG tended (P< 0.10) to have curvilinear relationships with BPZ level. While not different, 0.45kg and .91kg BPZ supplemented pigs were .97kg and 1.25kg heavier, respectively, on marketing day compared to control. No differences (P >0.10) were observed for Feed:Gain. Part of the negative effects of HS include decrease in feed intake which contributes to intestinal damage and decreased performance. Data from this study show that both treatment combinations were able to improve feed intake and decrease stress which might have led to the improved weight gain at the end. The data provides evidence that the combination of BPZ and KTCr may alleviate the negative effects of HS and help with the performance of grow-finish pigs during heat stress.