bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSI-22 Evaluating colonization success of Bacteroidetes from different host origin in broiler chickens
Authors: Sharma Usha Sivakumar , Marcolla Camila S , Willing Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Current broiler production practices that aim to maximize biosecurity have limited chick exposure to beneficial microbes. Previous research highlights a notable disparity in Bacteroidetes abundance and taxonomy between birds reared under intensive and extensive systems. Building upon this, we hypothesized that Bacteroidetes strains populating intensively raised birds may originate from human sources, potentially leading to varied colonization efficiencies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the colonization patterns of diverse Bacteroidetes strains within the chicken gastrointestinal tract. One day-old broiler birds (n = 63) were raised in individually ventilated isolators accommodating 3 birds per cage. The chicks were subjected to inoculation either via oral gavage with 150 µL of glycerol stock containing 1x104 colony forming units (CFU)/mL; or spray method (2 mL per cage) using chicken-derived, human-derived, and a combination of Bacteroidetes strains. Notably, birds administered via oral gavage displayed an increase in body weight gain by d 07 compared with their counterparts treated via spray and the control group (P < 0.01). Subsequent quantification of Bacteroidetes, Enterobacteriaceae, and total bacteria using qPCR revealed that oral gavage resulted in more successful Bacteroidetes colonization at d 14 (P < 0.01). Moreover, discernible variations were noted in total bacterial abundance across treatment cohorts. It can be concluded that the method of inoculation appears to influence the initial colonization patterns of Bacteroidetes in the chicken gut, or that inoculation in the environment requires a higher dose. Amplicon sequencing that is underway will reveal the success of the Bacteroidetes from different host origin and the most successful strains of chicken origin. Overall, enhanced growth coincided with more successful Bacteroidetes colonization, identifying them as potential targets for enhanced broiler performance. Further investigation is warranted to determine if Bacteroidetes from different sources demonstrate varying colonization efficiencies.
PSI-2 Molecular mechanisms regulating feed efficiency and muscle growth in beef cattle
Authors: Ascolese Sophia , Myer Phillip R , Beever Jonathan E , Rowan Troy N , Moisa Sonia , Ault-Seay Taylor , Henniger Madison T
Published: September 2024

Animals with greater feed efficiency use fewer resources to produce skeletal muscle, the primary product in beef production. As muscle represents approximately 50% of BW in beef cattle, efficient utilization of feed is interconnected with growth. However, little is known about molecular pathways interconnecting these two components of production. The overall objective of the study was to determine relationships between feed efficiency and growth at the molecular level in skeletal muscle of beef cattle. The specific objective of this study was to identify genes and pathways that are associated with variation in ADG, as an index of growth. We hypothesize that increased expression of genes involved in energy utilization are associated with greater ADG. Angus steers (n = 100) were enrolled in 70-d feed efficiency trials using the Vytelle GrowSafe 8000 individual feed intake monitoring system. Muscle samples (~ 500 ug) were collected via needle biopsy from the wing of the ileum between the axis and transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae during the last 30 d of the trial. Samples were snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80°C. Frozen tissue was pulverized and RNA extracted from ~ 50mg/sample using a commercial kit (zymoresearch.com). Quality was verified using Agilent 4200 Tapestation (agilent.com). Libraries were constructed using SMART Seq v4 3’ DE Kit. Libraries were assessed for quality and quantity, and subsequently pooled for sequencing using a Novaseq 6000 (illumina.com). STAR RNA-seq aligner was used to map the reads to the bovine genome (ARS-UCD_2.0). Animals were ranked according to ADG and grouped by 20th percentile; the first, third, and fifth groups were designated as “Very Low”, “Medium”, and “Very High”, respectively. Expression profiles between the groups were compared using DESeq2 in R (version 3.5). A total of 1,199 genes were identified as differentially expressed (fdr P-value < 0.05). Gene sets were functionally annotated using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (david.ncifcrf.gov). Genes expressed at greater levels in Very High ADG steers were significantly enriched (fdr P -value < 0.05) in Gene Ontology(GO) functions related to cellular metabolism (226 of 1199 genes). In addition, 92 genes in this set were associated with the KEGG pathway for VEGF/VEGFR-2 signaling, which regulates angiogenesis and has been associated with muscle growth. Genes expressed at greater levels in Very Low ADG steers were significantly enriched in GO terms related to proteasome degradation and mitophagy, both of which have been associated with muscle loss. In conclusion, these results support that variation in cellular metabolism contributes to variation in muscle growth, as reflected by ADG. They also highlight angiogenesis as a pathway that is worthy of further investigation for its role in beef cattle production.
PSI-20 Red clover as a functional feed: Effects on feed efficiency of finishing ram lambs
Authors: Ragsdale Macy E , Ely Donald G , Weinert-Nelson Jennifer R , Hamilton Tracy A , Purvis Katherine G , Jacobs Alayna A , Hamilton Matthew C , Jacks Whitney Leann , Davis Sydney , Bauman Amanda , Davis Brittany E
Published: September 2024

Red clover (RC) contains a secondary metabolite called biochanin A that has previously been demonstrated to increase body weight (BW) gain and feed efficiency (FE) while depressing dry matter intake (DMI) in ram lambs when incorporated at levels as low as 7.5% of a total high concentrate finishing diet. The objective of the study was to determine if decreased levels of RC hay supplementation would produce similar effects. It was hypothesized that RC supplementation at levels below 7.5% of the total diet would improve FE by decreasing DMI while subsequently increasing average daily gain (ADG). The study was repeated over 2 yr (2023 and 2024; n = 32 lambs yr-1). Individually-housed Polypay ram lambs (n = 64; age = 97.68 ± 1.15 d; initial BW = 32.21 ± 0.89 kg) were utilized in a randomized complete block design and fed one of four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets (85:15 concentrate:roughage ratio; n = 16 rams per diet): a control diet in which the roughage component (15.0% wt/wt of total diet) consisted of orchardgrass hay, 2.5%-RC (roughage: 2.5% RC; 12.5% orchardgrass wt/wt), 5.0%-RC (roughage: 5.0% RC; 10% orchardgrass wt/wt), and 7.5%-RC (roughage: 7.5% RC; 7.5% orchardgrass wt/wt). Study years were subdivided into periods for performance comparisons (period 1 = 0-21 d, period 2 = 21-42 d, total = 0-42 d). Lamb BW and feed intake were measured weekly. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED with repeated measures in SAS (v.9.4, SAS inst. Inc., Cary, NC). There were no differences in ADG across period 1 between treatments (P = 0.5). However, lambs fed 2.5% and 5% RC diets exhibited greater ADG when compared with lambs fed the control in period 2 (P = 0.03) and across the total study period (P = 0.09). The DMI was greatest in lambs on the control during period one (P =0.09), with no treatment effect during period 2 or across the total study period (P > 0.1). Lambs fed the 2.5% and 5% RC treatments had greater FE during period 1 (P < 0.05), while FE was greater in 2.5% and 7.5% RC treatments during period 2 compared with lambs on control (P < 0.05). Although FE was numerically greater in all RC treatments versus the control across the full study period, this difference was not significant (P = 0.19). These results suggest that supplementing red clover at levels below 7.5% can promote BW gain and FE in ram lambs fed a high-concentrate finishing diet.
PSI-19 Functional rumen microbiological characteristics of conventionally versus artificially reared triplet Polypay lambs from birth to weaning
Authors: Purvis Katherine G , Weinert-Nelson Jennifer R , Ely Donald G , Flythe Michael D D , May John , Hamilton Tracy A , Ferrell Jessica L , Jacks Whitney Leann , Hamilton Matthew C , Davis Brittany E
Published: September 2024

Artificial rearing remains an integral practice in sheep production largely due to the unique prolificacy of ewes as opposed to other species. Research has demonstrated slower growth and reduced performance of lambs reared on milk replacer when compared with conventionally reared lambs, but little is known about the functional development of the rumen microbial community. The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in functional rumen microbiological characteristics between conventionally (CR) and artificially (AR) reared lambs. We hypothesized that AR lambs would have slower rumen microbial community development than CR lambs, with consequent impacts on circulating metabolites. Polypay ewes (n = 9) bearing triplets were selected for the study. One lamb from each set was removed from the ewe 24 h after birth and placed on milk replacer. AR lambs were weaned on d 45 and CR lambs were weaned on d 60. A standard concentrate creep diet and alfalfa hay was made available ad libitum to both CR and AR lambs throughout the entire pre-weaning period. Rumen samples were collected via oral intubation and blood samples via jugular venipuncture on d 2 (blood only), 15, 45, and 60. Rumen bacterial functional guilds were enumerated via serial dilution and serum metabolites quantified via LC-MS. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS (v. 9.4, SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). No differences between treatments were found for average daily gain (gּ d-1) over the pre-weaning period (P = 0.12). Cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen increased during the pre-weaning period (P < 0.01), with proliferation noted for both treatments from d 15 to d 45 (P < 0.05). However, the magnitude of this proliferation differed between pre-weaning management, with a 1,000-fold increase for CR lambs, but only a 10-fold increase for AR lambs from d 15 to d 45 (P < 0.05). This resulted in a 100-fold difference between treatments on d 45 which persisted to d 60 (P < 0.05). Circulating β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations also increased over the pre-weaning period (P < 0.01), and were consistently less for AR (134.17 ± 15.04 mmolּ L-1) than CR lambs (209.21 ± 15.04 mmolּ L-1; P = 0.01). Conversely, circulating glucose decreased in both AR and CR lambs from d 2 to 60 (P = 0.06), with CR lambs having decreased concentrations detected on d 2 and 45 (P < 0.05). These results indicate potential delays in rumen development of AR lambs, supported by the differences observed in rumen cellulolytics and circulating metabolites when compared with CR lambs. These results could suggest implications for impaired dietary utilization and subsequent growth of AR lambs post-weaning, especially those managed on high-forage diets.
PSI-14 Serum energy metabolite and mineral concentrations in a contemporary flock of Western white-faced ewes during the periparturient period
Authors: Laverell Dylan M , Murphy Tom W , Engle Terry E , Kersh Aaron J , Mills Joe B , Stewart Whit C
Published: September 2024

Ewe prolificacy and litter weight has increased in Western U.S. sheep flocks potentially leading to greater prevalence of metabolic dysfunction around the periparturient period. Thus, the objective of this research was to quantify serum energy metabolites and minerals in a flock of Rambouillet ewes. A total of 56 ewes [2 to 5 yr; 92.4 ± 0.56 kg body weight (BW] with an average litter size (NLB) of 1.84 ± 0.08 (single n = 15, 27%; twin n = 35, 62%; triplet n = 6, 11%) were evaluated. Blood was collected on d -21, -14, -7, 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 relative to parturition. Serum concentrations of glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and minerals were quantified. Data were analyzed as repeated measures with fixed effects of ewe age (2 to 5 yr), sampling timepoint, NLB (1 or ≥ 2), and their interactions. There was a NLB x sampling timepoint interaction for serum Cl where multiple bearing ewes had greater concentration at d -14 (P = 0.03) and single bearing ewes had greater concentration on d -7 (P = 0.01; Figure 1). The NLB x ewe age interaction was significant for serum Fe where concentrations were greater for multiple than single bearing 4-yr-old ewes but greater for single than multiple bearing 5-yr-old ewes (Figure 1; P ≤ 0.05). As main effects (Table 1), 2-yr-old ewes had greater serum glucose than 4-yr-old ewes (P = 0.04), and 4-yr-old ewes had greater serum Ca than 3-yr-old ewes (P = 0.02). Multiple bearing ewes had had greater BHBA and NEFA (P ≤ 0.001) than single bearing ewes. Proportions of ewes within normal concentrations of key serum elements were glucose (single: 100%, multiple: 95%); BHBA (single: 100%, multiple: 49%); NEFA (single: 93%, multiple: 37%); and Ca (single: 100%, multiple: 100%). Serum BHBA and NEFA peaked at d 14, while serum K, Na, Co, Mn, and Mo peaked at d -21. Serum Se was least at d -21 and peaked at d 0. Pearson correlation coefficients were estimated between average serum metabolite concentrations before parturition (PRE; d -21, -14, -7) and after parturition (POST; d 7, 14, 21, 28; Table 2). A moderate positive correlation between PRE-Glucose and POST-Glucose (P = 0.03) and strong negative correlations between PRE-Glucose and PRE-BHBA and PRE-Glucose and PRE-NEFA were observed (P ≤ 0.001). Additionally, BHBA and NEFA were positively correlated within the PRE and POST timepoints (P < 0.001). Ewe age and NLB drive metabolic demands during different timepoints in the periparturient period. Litter size does contribute to increased BHBA and NEFA, increasing the risk for pregnancy toxemia. Increased nutritional intervention of prolific, semi-extensively managed Western white-faced ewes should be considered to reduce the risk of metabolic stress.
PSI-6 Early life programming of the bovine jejunum function in response to maternal vitamin and mineral supplementation
Authors: Craner Audrey J , Dahlen Carl R , Hurlbert Jennifer L , Menezes Ana Clara B , Banerjee Priyanka , Baumgaertner Friederike , Bochantin-Winders Kerri A , Amat Samat , Sedivec Kevin K , Swanson Kendall C , Da Diniz Wellison Jarles Silva
Published: September 2024

Despite the increased appreciation of the involvement of maternal nutrition in fetal development, its effects on jejunum programming remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated the impact of maternal vitamin and mineral supplementation throughout gestation on the differential gene expression and underlying biological pathways in the jejunum of neonatal calves. For this, beginning 60 d before breeding and continuing throughout gestation, crossbred Angus heifers (n = 14) were fed either a basal diet (CON; n = 7) or the basal diet plus 113 g•heifer-1•d-1 of VTM supplement (VTM; n = 7). All heifers were gestating female calves, which were euthanized 30 h after birth. Samples of jejunum mucosa were collected, stored at -80°C, then subjected to total RNA isolation and RNA sequencing. After quality control, the reads were mapped using STAR aligner and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using DESeq2. Maternal VTM supplementation did not affect calf organ mass, including jejunum weight. However, high-resolution respirometry analysis revealed greater mitochondrial efficiency in jejunum of calves from VTM supplemented dams. Additionally, we identified 528 DEGs between the VTM and CON calves (P-value ≤ 0.05 and |log2FC| > 0.5). Among them, the genes IGFBP2 and IGFBP6, which are key genes in insulin pathway and involved in regulation of insulin-like growth factors (IGF), IGF transport, and uptake, were upregulated in the VTM group. Additional pathways were identified using ShinyGO, which included the pancreatic secretion pathway, over-represented by genes such as PLCB1, CCK, and SLC26A3. The gene PLCB1 has been associated with feed efficiency, growth, and carcass traits in multiple species. Likewise, the SLC26A3 gene encodes a key intestinal chloride anion exchanger associated with enhanced feed efficiency in cattle. Genes encoding signaling molecules involved with immune response, T cell activation, and defense response were also among the DEGs upregulated in the VTM calves, including the TNFSF18 and TNFRSF4 genes. Our findings suggest that maternal prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation throughout gestation affects the expression of genes involved in the jejunum function of offspring at a neonatal time point. The long-term consequences of these changes, however, warrant further investigation.
PSIII-1 The effects of maternal diet on ram lamb reproductive characteristics
Authors: Barnello Nicholas M , Tillquist Nicole M , Reiter Amanda S , Kawaida Mia Y , Gately Rachael E , Voggu Santhi Priya , Carter Rachel E , Jiang Zongliang C , Zinn Steven A , Reed Sarah A , Govoni Kristen E
Published: September 2024

Maternal nutrition during gestation and resulting impacts on ram reproduction and epigenetics are poorly understood. We previously reported altered mRNA and epigenetic markers in F1 ram sperm due to poor maternal diet (restricted- and over-feeding) during gestation, yet the multigenerational effects on ram reproduction are unexplored. We hypothesized that F2 offspring born from restricted- and over-fed granddams would exhibit altered reproductive characteristics, and F1 and F2 offspring would display altered circulating concentrations of reproductive hormones. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of poor maternal diet on 1) the reproductive function of F2 ram offspring, and 2) key reproductive hormones in F1 and F2 offspring. To evaluate these objectives, multiparous Dorset ewes (F0, n = 46) were fed 100% (CON), 60% (RES), or 140% (OVER) of National Research Council requirements from d 30 of gestation through parturition and a control diet during lactation. Offspring are identified as CON-F1 (n = 10 ewes; 12 rams), RES-F1 (n = 13 ewes; 21 rams), and OVER-F1 (n = 16 ewes; 15 rams). The F1 ewes (n = 37) were maintained on a control diet throughout and were bred between 16 and 19 mo of age to establish the F2 generation. Resulting male offspring are referred to as CON-F2 (n = 6 rams), RES-F2 (n = 13 rams), and OVER-F2 (n = 9 rams) in correspondence to the diets of the granddam. Semen samples of F2 rams were collected via electroejaculation at d 248.4 ± 0.36 (collection 1) and d 255.4 ± 0.36 (collection 2). Semen quality (volume, pH, sperm motility, and sperm concentration) was evaluated at both collections using mCASA; iSperm, Aidmics Biotechnology Co., LTD. Scrotal circumference was measured at collection 2. Sperm morphology was determined by contrast microscopy. Testosterone (T) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured in F1 and F2 serum samples collected at d 256 ± 0.13 using commercially available kits. Data were analyzed using R Studio with P ≤ 0.05 considered significant and 0.05 < P ≤ 0.10 considered a tendency. An effect of granddam diet was not observed for F2 ram semen volume, pH, sperm motility, sperm concentration, scrotal circumference, nor histological sperm morphology (P ≥ 0.25). An effect of F0 diet was not observed for F1 or F2 offspring serum concentrations of T and FSH (P ≥ 0.28). In our model, F0 diet during gestation did not affect F2 male offspring sperm quality or circulating T and FSH in F1 and F2 generations. However, based on our previous reports that F0 diet altered F1 sperm epigenome, there may be an impact of maternal diet on epigenetic inheritance which warrants further exploration.
PSIII-19 Effects of insemination time and semen sorting on conception rate to AI in beef cattle
Authors: Purvis Tyler A , Crites Benjamin , Arnett Aaron , Vanzant Eric A , Anderson Les H
Published: September 2024

Sex-sorted semen can provide an opportunity for beef cattle producers to reach production goals by targeting sex-specific calving. Previous research in dairy cattle suggested that conception rate to AI (CRAI) increases if insemination occurs late with respect to estrus. The objective of this study was to determine if CRAI differed between sex-sorted (SS) and conventional (CON) semen based on the timing of insemination. We hypothesized that CRAI would be impacted by semen sorting and may vary over time. Both male (n = 621) and female (n = 262) sex-sorted and non-sorted conventional semen (n = 232) from two different AI companies were used. From 2017 to 2021, 1,115 inseminations occurred on a single beef cow-calf operation (n = 247 females), performed by one inseminator. Inseminations occurred at various timepoints following estrous detection. The precise time of onset of estrus was determined using an ear-tag sensor (CowManager SensOor, Agis Automastering BV, Harmelen, the Netherlands). Based on previous research, CowManager precisely and accurately determines the onset of estrus in cattle. The inseminator was instructed to breed randomly from 0 to 24 h after an estrus alert was received by CowManager and during normal hours of operation to replicate a commercial operation. CRAI was determined by rectal palpation performed by a single technician approximately 60 d following AI for females that did not return to estrus and was validated by subsequent calving date. Data were analyzed with the GLM procedure of SAS (v.9.4, SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). To aid in analysis, insemination times following estrous detection were grouped into six categories: less than 8 h (< 8), 8 to 11 h (8-11), 12 to 15 h (12-15), 16 to 19 h (16-19), 20 to 23 h (20-23), and greater than 24 h (>24). CRAI was less (P < 0.05) for SS (59%) than CON (68%) semen. No difference was observed (P > 0.1) between SS male (58%) vs SS female (62%) semen. Time affected CRAI (P < 0.05) as fewer females conceived when inseminated late (> 24h) than at any other time regardless of semen sorting. Time also impacted (P <.05) CRAI for all sex-sorted semen. More (P < 0.05) females conceived early (< 8 h and 8 to 18 h) and fewer (P < 0.05) females conceived when inseminated late (> 24h) with respect to the onset of estrus. Although significant effects of semen sort and time were observed, no significant semen sort by time interaction (P > 0.1) was observed. These data suggest that CRAI is less for females inseminated with sex-sorted semen than for those inseminated with conventional semen. Also, CRAI is similar for male- and female-sorted semen. The ability to AI with SS semen at similar timepoints as CON semen, could increase the adoption of SS semen and increase reproductive efficiency.
PSIII-24 Skeletal muscle antioxidant activity increases over time in beef steers and is greater in Angus compared with Brahman
Authors: Williams Brooke D , DiSilvestro Adrianna N , Wesolowski Lauren T , Semanchik Pier L , Simons Jessica L , Carson Chloey P , Earnhardt-San Audrey L , Riley David R , Perry George A , Long Charles R , Randel Ronald D , Welsh Thomas H , White-Springer Sarah H
Published: September 2024

Various managerial, nutritional, and environmental stressors may cause excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or free radicals which can damage cells and tissues, referred to as oxidative stress. Oxidative stress may impair beef cattle growth performance and product quality. Antioxidant enzymes are important in mitigating increased ROS to prevent oxidative stress, yet little is known about skeletal muscle antioxidant status in beef cattle of different breeds, ages and temperaments. We aimed to test the hypotheses that activities of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in skeletal muscle would be greater in 1) Angus compared with Brahman steers; 2) longissimus thoracis (LT) compared with trapezius (TRAP) muscles; and 3) calm compared with temperamental animals. Brahman and Angus steers were classified as either calm (n = 13 Angus, n = 12 Brahman), intermediate (n = 11 Angus, n = 10 Brahman), or temperamental (n = 12 Angus, n = 12 Brahman) based on their pen score and exit velocity at weaning. Samples were collected from the LT and TRAP muscles of the steers at 10, 13, and 18 mo of age. Commercial assay kits were used to determine muscle GPx and SOD activities (Cayman Chemical, Ann Arbor, MI). Data were analyzed using linear models in SAS v9.4 with breed, age, temperament, breed × temperament, breed × muscle, and breed × age as fixed effects. Age was included as a repeated effect with animal within breed as the subject. Across muscle groups, Angus had greater GPx and SOD activities than Brahman (P < 0.0001). Additionally, GPx activity increased in both Angus and Brahman steers from 10 to 18 mo (P < 0.0001). In both breeds, the TRAP muscle had greater GPx activity than LT muscle (P < 0.0001). Brahman TRAP muscle also had greater SOD activity than Brahman LT muscle (P < 0.0001) but SOD activity was similar between muscle groups in Angus steers. Neither GPx nor SOD activity differed by temperament group in either breed or muscle group. These data suggest differences in skeletal muscle antioxidant status between Angus and Brahman steers which may mitigate oxidative stress, impacting growth performance as well as product quality at harvest.
PSV-13 Betaine supplementation and nutrient restriction during gestation: Influences on growth in fetal sheep offspring
Authors: Voggu Santhi Priya , Tillquist Nicole M , Barnello Nicholas M , Reiter Amanda S , Kawaida Mia Y , Summers Cheyenne S , Reed Sarah A , Zinn Steven A , Govoni Kristen E
Published: September 2024

Restricted nutrition during gestation can reduce offspring productivity. Supplementation of betaine, a methyl donor, promotes fetal growth and liver function. We hypothesized that nutrient restriction during gestation impairs growth, including organ weights and muscle mass, while betaine supplementation would alleviate these negative effects. To determine if maternal betaine supplementation during gestation would improve growth of offspring of restricted-fed dams, multiparous Dorset ewes (n = 47) were estrus synchronized and bred to one of three rams. Ewes confirmed pregnant with twins (n = 32) and singletons (n = 15) were randomly assigned to one of four diets [100% NRC requirements (CON), 60% NRC (RES), CON+betaine (CON+BET; 2 g/d), and RES+BET] from d 30 to 130 of gestation. Among the twins, there were 27 males (CON-8, RES-5, CON+BET-5, and RES+BET-9) and 37 females (CON-8, RES-9, CON+BET-11, and RES+BET-9). Within singletons, there were 7 males (CON-2, RES-2, CON+BET-2, and RES+BET-1) and 8 females (CON-3, RES-1, CON+BET-1, and RES+BET-3). Dam body weight (BW) was measured weekly from d 30 to d 130 of gestation, and diet adjusted accordingly. Dams were euthanized at d 130 of gestation and fetal BW and tissue weights were collected. Data were analyzed using RStudio with P ≤ 0.05 considered significant and 0.05 < P ≤ 0.10 as tendency. At d 130, dams carrying twin fetuses in the CON group were 11.3% and 19.1% heavier than RES and RES+BET dams, respectively (P ≤ 0.05), and CON+BET dams were 18.4% and 10.5% heavier than RES and BET+RES dams, respectively (P ≤ 0.07). However, dams with singletons showed no significant difference in BW (P ≥ 0.37). Regarding fetal BW for singletons, RES fetuses (3.80 ± 0.28kg) were lighter than CON (4.60 ± 0.21kg), CON+BET (4.72 ± 0.27kg), and RES+BET (4.59 ± 0.24kg; P ≤ 0.03). Whereas in twins, RES+BET fetuses (3.19 ± 0.11kg) were lighter than CON (3.68 ± 0.12kg), RES (3.73 ± 0.14kg), and CON+BET (3.60 ± 0.13kg; P ≤ 0.02). In all fetuses, the livers of male RES (28.0 ± 1.49g) and male RES+BET (27.7 ± 1.44g) tended to be heavier than those of female RES+BET (24.5 ± 1.19g; P ≤ 0.07). In terms of muscle mass, female CON+BET (9.33 ± 0.43g) fetuses tended to have greater longissimus muscle (LM) mass compared with female CON (8.30 ± 0.35; P = 0.06), whereas male RES (9.06 ± 0.44g) tended to have heavier LM than male CON+BET (8.02 ± 0.43g; P = 0.09). There were no observed effects of diet, fetal sex, or fetal number on the weights of heart, kidney, perirenal fat, pancreas, semitendinosus muscle, and triceps brachii muscle (P ≥ 0.11). These findings suggest that betaine supplementation may have a significant role in improving fetal BW in singleton pregnancies, with variable effects in twins. Additionally, betaine supplementation may have sex-specific effects on muscle development.
PSV-6 Effect of maternal undernutrition on gene expression related to immune system in spleen of Japanese Black (Wagyu) fetuses
Authors: Haginouchi Taketo , Zhang Yi , Nishino Daichi , Phomvisith Ouanh , Gotoh Takafumi
Published: September 2024

Underdevelopment in the fetal period increases the risk of disease in the neonatal period, and there are concerns about the effects on later growth and fattening. Previous studies have indicated that poor nutrition during gestation affects not only the development of skeletal muscle and liver, but also the formation of the thymus gland and spleen, which are involved in immunity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of maternal undernutrition on gene expression related to the immunity of the spleen. Multiparous Wagyu cattle (n = 12) were randomly assigned to two nutrition groups: the control group (CON: 120% of Japanese feeding standard for beef cattle; n = 6) and the maternal undernutrition group (MUN: 60% of Japanese feeding standard for beef cattle; n = 6) from conception to d 260 of gestation. Fetuses (n = 12) were harvested from the maternal cows and fetal spleens were collected. Total RNA was extracted from each spleen to synthesize cDNA. The quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis was carried out to investigate the expression of 17 target genes [CD4, CD8a, CD8b, CD19, CD21, CD79a, CD205, interferon (IFN) -γ, NFk-β, toll-like receptor (TLR) 4, interleukin (IL) 2, IL4, IL6, IL7, IL10, IL18, and IFI16) related to the immune system. Ribosomal protein S18 was used as an internal control. The specificity of PCR products was confirmed by analyzing the dissociation curves. Data were analyzed by student t-test or Welch’s t-test after the Smirnov-Grubbs test and F-test to remove outliers and compare variances. The expression of CD8a (P < 0.1) and CD8b (P < 0.1) related to Cytotoxic T cell tended to be less in MUN than in CON (Figure 1). Other immunological cell marker genes expression (CD4, CD19, CD21, CD79a, CD205) did not show any significant differences between CON and MUN (P > 0.11). In genes related to immunological mechanisms (IFN-γ, NFk-β, TLR4, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL7, IL10, IL18, and IFI16), the expression of NFk-β was lless in MUN than in CON (P < 0.05). NFk-β was reported to regulate more than 400 genes including immune function. In addition, the expression of IL10 was less in MUN than in CON (P < 0.05). The cytokine of IL-10 has functions to suppress over-activated cytotoxic immunity by CD8+ T cell. These results might suggest that maternal undernutrition induces cytotoxic immune deactivation through NFk-β expression decline in the fetal spleen.
PSVI-19 Abundance of some cecal bacteria in Lohmann LSL lite pullets and hens fed omega-3 fatty acids and yeast bioactives in low or high spacing allowance
Authors: Waliaula Paul Kibaba , Kiarie Elijah , Diarra Moussa
Published: September 2024

Nutritional optimizations and rearing environment that meets welfare standards are prerequisite in the performance and health of laying hens. Rearing practices influence gastrointestinal development, microbiota, and immune function. However, little is known on the implications of rearing spacing allowance (SA) and feed ingredients on intestinal microbiota. We determined the abundance of selected cecal bacteria in pullets and hens in response to rearing SA and dietary omega-3 fatty acids (N-3 FA) and yeast bioactive (YB) from placement to 17 wk of age (woa). One-day old chicks (n = 2,632) were placed in cages in 2 SA of 24 cages each: High SA (HSA, 348 cm2/bird; ~50 birds/cage) and Low SA (LSA, 284 cm2/bird; ~68 birds/cage). Birds were fed corn and soybean-based diets (C), C + 3% co-extruded full fat flaxseed and pulse mixture (N-3 FA) and C + 0.05% YB processed with β-1,3-glucan hydrolase (YB). Birds were allocated to diets within SA according to 2 x 3 factorial design (n = 8 cage/treatment) and fed ad libitum. At 4 and 16 woa, 1 and 2 pullets/treatment respectively, were necropsied for ceca digesta from each cage and independently analyzed. At 18 woa, hens were placed in enriched cages based on rearing treatment identities in egg production facility and fed a commercial diet. At 35 woa, 18 hens per treatment were necropsied for ceca digesta samples and analyzed independently. Samples were analyzed for viable bacterial counts for E. coli, Enterococcus and Lactobacillus. Statistical analysis was performed by general linear mixed model procedures of SAS with diets, SA, sampling age and associated interactions as fixed factors, difference with P < 0.05 was considered significant. Comparison of log-transformed means (CFU/g) showed that diets and SA had no significant effect on cecal E. coli counts at 4, 8 and 35 woa (P > 0.05; Table 1). However, at 16 woa the least E. coli counts was found in LSA (P < 0.0001), with N-3-FA-fed and YB-fed pullets having fewer numbers (P = 0.007) than control-fed pullets. There was no interaction effects between diet and density for E. coli in all sampling wk (P >0.05). No significant effect of SA or diets were observed at any sampling week for Enterococcus counts, except LSA had a tendency at 8 woa (P = 0.078). At 8 woa, the cecal Lactobacillus counts (P = 0.009) were less in LSA relative to HSA pullets. In conclusion, feeding of N3-FA or YB during rearing influenced cecal microbiota. Supplementation of YB seemed to promote growth of beneficial Lactobacillus, which is associated with strengthened immunity.
PSV-22 Effects of corn silage particle size on eating behavior, performance, and carcass traits in finishing beef heifers
Authors: da Costa Gabrielli , Dias Jr. Waldir , Domingues Edmilson , Ferreira Robson , Vaz Vinicius , Bernardes Thiago
Published: September 2024

The potential for increasing the theoretical cut length (TCL) in corn silage has gained wide acceptance in the last decades, especially in dairy cattle diets. However, there is scarce knowledge on this topic in beef finishing diets. The hypothesis of this study was that rations of longer particle size would result in greater chewing activity and performance. Thus, our objective was to determine the effect of feeding corn silage of two particle sizes on eating behavior, blood parameters, fecal characteristics, and performance in beef heifers. A single cornfield was harvested in alternating strips to maintain similar conditions for treatments. Corn hybrid was harvested at 37.9 ± 1.6 % DM using a self-propelled forage harvester (Claas Jaguar 870 equipped with an orbis 600 head) set at 13 mm TCL and designated “conventional” particle size (CPS) or 24 mm TLC and designated “long” particle size (LPS). Roll gap of 2 mm was adopted for both TLC. The CPS and LPS had 9.56 ± 4.6% and 35.1 ± 4.8% of particles retained on the top screen (19 mm). The kernel processing score were 73.9 and 72.8% for CPS and LPS, respectively. Single-sourced Nellore heifers [n = 96; initial shrunk body weight (BW) = 248.3 ± 36.3 kg] were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments (3 heifers per pen; 16 pen replicates per treatment). Treatments consisted of a finishing diet containing CPS or LPS. The diet was formulated using NASEM (2016) to provide an average daily gain (ADG) of 1.3 kg/d [19.5 % of corn silage, 39.1 % of high moisture corn (HMC), 26.3% of ground corn, 7.1 % of cotton meal, 3.95% of soybean meal, 0.85 % of urea, and 3.2 % of mineral mix; dry matter (DM) basis]. Heifers were adapted to the finishing diet over a 15-d period and fed for a total of 101 d. Feeding behavior was assessed on d 47 and 69. Fecal samples were collected on d 58 and 78. Ultrasound fat thickness and ribeye area, and blood samples were assessed on the day of shipping to slaughter. Statistical analysis of experimental data was performed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 and an α of 0.05 determined significance. No differences were obtained for initial BW, final BW, ADG, dressing, hot carcass, and carcass traits. Heifers consuming LPS had greater DM intake (2.59% of BW) than CPS diet (2.50% of BW). No effects were found for feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F). Fecal characteristics (DM, starch, NDF, N, pH, and scoring) were not different between treatments. Regarding blood parameters, no differences were observed for creatine phosphokinase, γ-glutamyltransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase. Overall, corn silage with longer particle size fed to finishing heifers does not appreciably influence chewing, daily gain, or carcass parameters.
PSV-21 Effects of supplementation programs for cow-calf operations during the dry grazing period under tropical conditions
Authors: Domingues Edmilson , Giacomelli Hiam , Griss Luiz , Alves Gustavo , Pereira Lucca , Casagrande Daniel R , Gionbelli Mateus P , Bernardes Thiago
Published: September 2024

The potential for increasing the productivity in cow-calf operation has gained wide acceptance in the last decade among Brazilian farms. Our objectives were to assess the impacts of providing supplementation to pregnant beef cows during the dry grazing period on cow and calf performance. During a 2-yr period, Tabapuã cows (n = 36) were blocked by parity and body weight (BW), and randomly assigned to pastures at the beginning of the rainy season. Brachiaria pastures were assigned to receive i) no application of N and cows were supplemented with mineral mix (CON), ii) application of 165 kg of Nּ ha-1ּ yr-1 and cows supplemented with a commercial product containing 40% of CP, macro and micro minerals, and vitamins (SUP), or iii) application of 165 kg of Nּ ha-1ּ yr-1 and cows supplemented with grass silage (GS). For SUP system, one-half of the paddocks were deferred in late summer. For GS system, one-half of the paddocks were deferred in early summer and silage was made after 90 d of regrowth. During silage making, 21% of DDGs on a dry matter (DM) basis was mixed into grass. After silage harvesting, the area was differed again. At the beginning of the dry period, deferred areas had free access to animals for SUP and GS treatments. The commercial supplement and silage were fed for 140 d (from 116 ± 27 to 256 ± 27 d of gestation). The mineral mix was offered all year round. The PROC MIXED procedure of SAS was used to analyze all variables. The statistical model included supplementation program as a fixed effect. Block, paddock, and year were included as random variables. Initial BW, initial body condition score (BCS), and gestation period of cows were included as covariates. Initial BW and BCS, and final BW and BCS did not differ among treatments. The GS treatment provided the greatest average daily gain (ADG) during prepartum (0.49 kg/d) than CON and SUP strategies (an average of 0.37 kg/d). Whereas ADG during postpartum was not altered by treatments. Considering the full cycle (prepartum and postpartum), supplementation strategies did not affect ADG and BCS. No differences were obtained for birth weight, weaning weight, and ADG in calves. Overall, the supplementation programs adopted in this study did not influence individual gains in both cow and calf. However, BW gain per area may be altered, since supplementation increases stocking rate.
PSV-25 Investigating the effects of Chromium Propionate supplementation on productive and reproductive performance of beef cows
Authors: Vidlund Trinity , Mitchell Camille , Craun Hannah , Currin John , Stewart Jamie L , Clark Sherrie , Wolpert Bailey , Redifer Tracey , Mercadante Vitor R G
Published: September 2024

We investigated the effects of Chromium Propionate supplementation on reproductive performance of beef cows from pre-partum to weaning. Suckled beef cows at nine locations were enrolled in the study. Within location, cows were stratified by parity, dam age, and day postpartum (DPP) and randomly assigned to one of two treatments: 1) Control, supplementation of a mineral product at 113 gּ animal-1ּ d-1 (n = 464 cows; 13 experimental units); or 2) CrP, supplementation of mineral product at 113 gּ animal-1ּ d-1 containing 1.4 g of Chromium Propionate (0.4%KemTRACE Chromium 0.4%, Kemin Industries, Inc., Des Moines, IA; n = 489 cows; 13 experimental units). Treatments were initiated at approximately 37 d pre-calving until weaning for a total of 250 ± 12 d. Cows were enrolled in the 7-d CO-Synch+CIDR fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) protocol followed by natural service for a 70-d breeding season. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by ultrasonography at 55 d after TAI protocol and 40 d after the end of the breeding season. Cow body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) were recorded at initiation of the TAI protocol (d -10), at pregnancy diagnosis (d 55 and 110), and at weaning (d 285). Within group, mineral disappearance was determined by the difference in weight between offered mineral and refusals. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX and MIXED procedures of SAS with pasture/group as the experimental unit with the effect of treatment and included group (treatment × location), cow (group), and location as random variables. Age, DPP, d -10 BCS, and BW were similar (P > 0.05) between treatments (5.4 and 5.3 ± 0.61 yr, 79.2 and 79.9 ± 4.61 d, 5.1 and 5.2 ± 0.05, 515.7 and 515.6 ± 15.11 kg for Control and CrP, respectively). Mineral disappearance was similar (P = 0.999) between treatments (165.5 and 152.9 gּ animal-1ּ d-1, for Control and CrP, respectively). Cow BW was similar (P > 0.05) between treatments on d 55, 110 and 285 (558.5 and 551.4 ± 14.50 kg, 580.8 and 594.6 ± 13.51 kg, and 574.2 and 570.9 ± 14.32 kg for Control and CrP, respectively). Similarly, cow BCS did not differ (P > 0.05) between treatments on d 55, 110 and 285 (5.4 and 5.4 ± 0.09, 5.3 and 5.3 ± 0.10, and 5.1 and 5.2 ± 0.10 for Control and CrP, respectively). Calf birth and weaning BW were similar (P > 0.05) between treatments. However, CrP-supplemented cows tended (P = 0.081) to have greater estrus expression (60.2 and 68.3 ± 3.1 %, for Control and CrP, respectively) and CrP-supplemented cows had greater (P = 0.045) TAI pregnancy rate when compared with Control cows (49.9 and 55.2 ± 2.1 %). Supplementation of Chromium Propionate to beef cows from pre-partum through weaning did not affect cow BW and BCS, tended to increase estrus expression and increased TAI pregnancy rate.
PSVI-20 Supplementing cows with an organic trace mineral drench at CIDR placement improved artificial insemination pregnancy rates
Authors: Engel Chanda , Russell Jason , Gomez Arturo , Bevilacqua Riccardo
Published: September 2024

Mature beef cows (n = 1,616) from a commercial ranch in central South Dakota, were used to evaluate the effects of an organic trace mineral drench containing 720 mg Zn, 400 mg Mn, 250 mg Cu, 15 mg Co, 1 mg Se, and 200 IU Vitamin E on pregnancy rates. Appropriate trace mineral status was guaranteed by providing all cows with free choice access to an organic trace mineral supplement (7 gּ animal-1ּ d-1Availa 4, Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN) 60 d prior to breeding. Cows were grouped in different pastures (n = 7). In each of the pasture groups, during CIDR placement, individually identified cows were randomized to either receive no drench (CON) or 30 mL of a supplemental trace mineral drench (PROFUSION, Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN). Cows were initially bred by AI using one of two fixed-time AI protocols per group (FTAI; 7&7 Synch, n = 1 and 7-d Co-Synch+CIDR, n = 6). One week following FTAI, bulls were turned out with the cows for approximately 45 d. Pregnancy was determined by a licensed veterinarian via trans-rectal ultrasonography. The data were analyzed using R Statistical Software with cow as the experimental unit, blocking by pasture. There was no difference in overall pregnancy rate (90%; P > 0.10) between PROFUSION and CON cows at the end of the breeding period. However, PROFUSION cows had a statistically significant increase in AI pregnancy rates compared with CON cows (P = 0.05; 58.1% vs 53.2%, respectively). Supplementing an organic trace mineral drench prior to FTAI resulted in a positive improvement in AI pregnancy rates.
PSVI-22 Effects of supplementation of beef cows during gestation on progeny backgrounding frame size and performance
Authors: da Costa Gabrielli , Pelegrini Ana , Domingues Edmilson , Gionbelli Mateus P , Bernardes Thiago
Published: September 2024

The implications of supplementation during gestation on growth and efficiency of offspring have gained interest worldwide. The hypothesis of this study was that supplementation of cows during gestation results in favorable progeny growth and nutrient utilization. Our objectives were to assess the impacts of providing supplementation to pregnant beef cows during the dry grazing period on progeny backgrounding performance. During a 2-yr period, Tabapuã cows (n = 36) were managed on Brachiaria pastures, which were assigned to 1 of 3 treatments as follows: no application of N on pasture and cows supplemented with mineral mix (CON), application of 165 kg of Nּ ha-1ּ yr-1 and cows supplemented with a commercial product containing 40% of CP, macro and micro minerals, and vitamins (SUP), and application of 165 kg of Nּ ha-1ּ yr-1 and cows supplemented with grass silage (GS). At the beginning of the dry period, the commercial supplement and silage were fed for 140 d (from 116 ± 27 to 256 ± 27 d of gestation). The mineral mix was offered all year round. Bull (n = 18 in yr 1 and 12 in yr 2) and heifer progeny (n = 13 in yr 1 and 17 in yr 2) were weaned with average age of 203 ± 18 d in yr 1 and 229 ± 15 d in yr 2. After weaning, progeny were weighed and allocated in individual pens and adapted to a growing diet over 90 in yr 1 and 89 d in yr 2. For both years, rations were formulated to provide 0.9 kg/d (Dietary NEm = 1.68 Mcal/kg and dietary Neg = 1.07 Mcal/kg, on average). The PROC MIXED procedure of SAS was used to analyze all variables. The statistical model included supplementation program as a fixed effect and sex (male or female) as a random variable. Initial BW, weaning age, estimated progeny difference, and d on feed were included as covariates. No differences were obtained for initial BW, final BW, ADG, DM intake, and G:F. Frame size (e.g., heart girth, hip height) was also unaffected by dam supplementation. Overall, supplementing pregnant beef cows, during the dry grazing period, with a commercial supplement or silage does not affect progeny performance during backgrounding.