bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
47 Effect of Summer Heat Stress on Internal Parasite Populations in Lebanese Baladi Goats
Authors: Murr Samer , Hajj Elham , Houchaymi Khaled , Burke Joan M , Murdoch Brenda M , Aad Pauline Y
Published: September 2022

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections affecting ruminants pose serious problems whenever management systems are deficient with inappropriate nutrition and sanitation. The Lebanese Baladi goat, reared under very challenging transhumant conditions, is recently being challenged with nutrient availability due to the recent economic crisis. Therefore, prevalence of helminth parasites was studied in 90 Baladi does raised under three different management systems (Man) of intensive/managed (M), extensive/pastoral (P) or semi-intensive/agro-pastoral (AP). A 5-point score assessment of fat and muscle covering using Body Condition Score (BCS), anemic state revealed by conjunctivae mucosal color using FAMACHA, nostril discharge, stool character and bottle jaw edema were recorded twice for each system at two predetermined summer periods of heat stress (HS) with THI of 20 and 24 respectively, and fecal samples collected. Fecal nematode eggs (FEC) and protozoan oocyst count (FOC) were analyzed using a modified McMaster method. Results showed that BCS were not altered (P > 0.05) between heat stress periods, but decreased in M. FAMACHA did not differ (P > 0.05) between M, P and AP. All fecal samples tested showed strongyles nematodes, while 98% showed Eimeria spp. with occasional occurrence of Scrjabinema and Moniezia. Parasitic burden of GIN was low at 17%, while Eimeria was high at 98 %. Further, there was a significant (P < 0.001) Man x HS for HOTC, with 5-fold (P < 0.05) greater in AP but not M or P in late summer, indicating a contaminated and overgrazed agro-pastoral land. Though summer heat stress effect was not obvious on endoparasite prevalence in Lebanese Baladi goats, the confounding effects of resilience to GIN, nutritional and heat stress in these locally resilient goats require further investigation. This study reports, for the first time in Lebanon, the prevalence of GIN using the McMaster method and 5-point score in Local Baladi goats, and therefore these methods require further validation for on-farm use.
43 Establishing Pregnancy Following Artificial Insemination (AI) of Angus Cows: Experience from Fort Valley State University (FVSU)
Authors: Moawad Adel R , Whitley Niki C C , Ralph Noble C
Published: September 2022

Fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) provides a practical and feasible option for commercial and stud breeders to implement AI into their herds, as 100% of the herd can be inseminated at a predetermined time. FTAI can suit many herds, whether they are inseminating small numbers or the whole herd. We investigated the effects of sire and inseminator on pregnancy and birth outcomes following FTAI of Angus cows. Three Angus sires; namely GAR Quantum 7AN560, Square B True North 8052, and Tehama Tahoe B767, and two inseminators (1 and 2) were evaluated for differences in pregnancy outcomes and birth rates from 24 inseminations. Angus cows (N = 24) were synchronized with CIDR plus GnRH injection. After 7 days, CIDR was removed and each cow received 25 mg PGF2α. AI was conducted within 72 h from PGF2α injection. Cows were randomly assigned for AI between inseminators (12 cows inseminated by inseminator 1 and 12 cows by inseminator 2) and sires (6, 8, and 10 cows were inseminated by GAR Quantum, Tehama Taho, and True North semen, respectively. Pregnancy was diagnosed at 4-5 months after AI by transrectal ultrasonography. Percentage of re-cycling cows 21 days after AI was 45.8% (11/24). Pregnancy rate was 54.2% (13/24). Pregnancy rate was higher (P<0.05) for cows inseminated by inseminator 1 than by inseminator 2 (69.2% vs. 30.8%). The average age of pregnancy was 5.6 ± 0.2 months. Among sires, 46.2% (6/13) of the pregnant cows were inseminated by True North, 38.5% (5/13) by Tehama Tahoe, and 15.4% (2/13) by GAR Quantum. The pregnant cows gave birth to healthy calves at 280.8 ± 2.1 days after AI. In conclusion, both inseminator and sire affected the pregnancy rates and birth outcomes after AI in beef cattle. This study was conducted to support the establishment of a purebred Black Angus beef herd at FVSU with the application of AI.
60 Occurrence of Mycotoxins in US Corn Gluten Products and Wheat Middlings
Authors: Gott Paige N , Schwandt Erin F , Zheng Lan , Pender Chasity M , Hofstetter Ursula , Levy April W
Published: September 2022

Secondary fungal metabolites which may affect animal health and productivity are known as mycotoxins. These naturally occurring metabolites are often detected in a variety of feed ingredients. Mycotoxin occurrence and contamination levels in corn gluten products and wheat middlings or “midds” were monitored in this study. Samples submitted from the US were screened via LC-MS/MS for six major mycotoxin groups: aflatoxins, type A trichothecenes, type B trichothecenes (B-Trich), fumonisins (FUM), zearalenone (ZEN), and ochratoxin A (OTA). The presence of clinical health or performance concerns on-farm was reported for each sample. Results from samples without clinical concerns that were above the limit of detection for each respective mycotoxin group were included in the study. Out of 14 corn gluten product samples reported as 2021 crop year, 100% were positive for both B-Trich and FUM, while 71% were positive for some amount of ZEN. These mycotoxin groups were also the most frequently detected in 2020. Mean contamination levels (parts per billion, ppb) for 2021 were 1,314 ppb, 443 ppb, and 132 ppb, respectively. Of the 24 samples of 2021 wheat midds, B-Trich were detected in 92% while 54% were positive for OTA with mean contamination levels of 665 ppb and 3 ppb, respectively. Ergot alkaloids were not screened for in the current year, however, previous analyses have identified these metabolites frequently occur in wheat midds samples. Although represented by limited data sets to date, analysis of 2021 corn gluten products and wheat midds indicate mycotoxins frequently occur in these by-product feeds. High feed costs may drive increased feeding of alternative feeds, including these and other by-products, in addition to established routine usage in pelleted feeds and other diets. Therefore, continued screening is suggested to assess mycotoxin exposure in livestock diets.
61 Mycotoxin Trends in US Corn Grain and Corn Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles
Authors: Gott Paige N , Zheng Lan , Schwandt Erin F , Pender Chasity M , Hofstetter Ursula , Levy April W
Published: September 2022

Mycotoxins are secondary fungal metabolites which may affect animal health and performance and are frequently detected in various feedstuffs. Mycotoxin occurrence and contamination levels in US corn grain and corn distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) samples were monitored in this study. Samples were analyzed via LC-MS/MS for six major mycotoxin groups: aflatoxins, type A trichothecenes, type B trichothecenes (B-Trich), fumonisins (FUM), zearalenone (ZEN), and ochratoxin A. The presence of clinical health or performance concerns on-farm was reported for each sample. Results from samples without clinical concerns that were above the limit of detection for each respective mycotoxin group were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure (SAS 9.4, Cary, NC) to test the effect of harvest year on mean contamination level. Results are presented in Table 1. Of the 219 samples of 2021 corn grain screened in the current data set, 69% were positive for some level of B-Trich, an increase from 58% positive in 2020. Fumonisins (61%) and ZEN (27%) were the next most frequently detected mycotoxins in 2021 samples. Although numerically lower, mean B-Trich level (parts per billion, ppb) was similar to 2020 crop while contamination with FUM was elevated (P = 0.0001) compared to the prior year. Mean ZEN levels are numerically greater, but similar to 2020 samples. Out of 35 corn DDGS samples, occurrence of B-Trich, FUM, and ZEN remained high at 100, 100, and 94%, respectively. Mean B-Trich and FUM concentrations were similar year-to-year across the study period for DDGS while current mean ZEN level was similar to 2020, but lower than 2019 (P < 0.001). Preliminary results of the 2021 US corn grain and DDGS survey suggest increased mycotoxin occurrence with comparable mean contamination levels to those observed in 2020. Continued surveillance is suggested to assess contamination in common livestock feed ingredients.
402 The Silver Linings of a Pandemic
Authors: Bolden -Tiller Olga
Published: September 2022

Despite differing origins, the three types of land grant institutions (LGI) share the common mission of teaching, research and extension in service to all, resulting in the land-grant college system being seen as a major contributor in the faster growth rate of the US economy that led to it being an economic superpower. Through the years, the LGI mission has been relatively resolute; however, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic mandated that, LGI, like all organizations, respond to its unprecedented demands. Though the land grant institutions share the single mission of teaching, research and extension, the support of these efforts at land grant institutions vary tremendously, often with great disparities existing for the 1890 and 1994 institution. As in most industries, the pandemic not only revealed many disparities, but exacerbated them. Instead of dampening the work of 1890 institutions like Tuskegee University, the pandemic called on these institutions to be innovative in carrying out its mission, resulting in numerous silver linings, which will be discussed in this session.
66 Environmental Impacts of Animal-Sourced Foods: Historical Trends and Future Opportunities
Authors: White Robin R
Published: September 2022

There is considerable debate within the scientific literature surrounding the role of animal-source foods (ASF) in sustainable food systems. Much of that debate centers on the environmental impacts of ASF. Although exact values vary with geographical location, data source, temporal focus, production strategies, and other factors, it is without doubt that ASF contribute notably to the environmental impacts of agriculture systems. The contributions of animal agriculture to environmental impacts globally has been used repeatedly as justification to downscale or eliminate consumption of ASF; however, this logic is predicated on the assumption that omission of livestock from the food production system would result in impact reductions proportional to current contributions. Simulations of the potential impacts of animal agricultural removal from the U.S. suggest this assumption may not hold. As such, there is a need to better understand the nature of ASF environmental impacts, to explore scenarios intermediate to current production practices and wholescale omission of ASF, and to prioritize potential strategies to address the societal challenges presented by the environmental impacts of ASF. These objectives of this work are to: 1) review the importance of critical context clarifications when discussing the environmental impacts of ASF; 2) explore the historical changes in the environmental impacts of ASF; and 3) highlight emerging areas of opportunity to enhance the environmental impacts of ASF. When considering the impact of ASF it is critical to contextualize discussions within geographical, temporal, and production-relevant scopes as relative impacts and conclusions drawn vary dramatically across different levels of these factors. Within the context of historical, U.S. agricultural systems, industry consolidation and productivity enhancement has contributed to notable improvements in the environmental footprints of ASF; however, absolute emissions in some industries are constant or increasing with time. Future efforts to enhance environmental impact should focus on productivity enhancement and direct impact mitigation to simultaneously address environmental footprints and absolute impacts.
71 Agent-Based Modeling: A Historical Perspective and Comparison to Other Modeling Techniques
Authors: Kaniyamattam Karun
Published: September 2022

The earliest known history of agent-based modeling (ABM) is traced back to Von Neumann’s self-reproducing cellular automata, designed in the 1940s. The usage of ABM in different scientific fields accelerated in the 1990s, supported by the phenomenal increase in computing capabilities. ABM is gaining acceptance in animal systems, as daily decision-making is becoming complex due to multiple competing outcomes of interest to food systems stakeholders. ABM typically replicates complex real-world systems, for example, a herd of animals that dynamically interact based on simple rules. ABM simulate the heterogenous, stochastic characteristics of agents observed in the real-world. The dynamic interaction of agents replicates the observable real-world complex system patterns. Application of ABM in animal systems ranges from modeling cell behavior, precision nutrition and herd management to predicting the spread of epidemics, and food animal supply chain optimization. Animal science's most widely used alternative modeling techniques include system dynamic models, differential equations-based models, and statistical modeling. The list of unrealistic assumptions that limit the utility of these modeling techniques includes the assumptions of linearity, homogeneity, normality, and stationarity. The advantageous characteristics of an agent in ABM that set it apart from other techniques include being identifiable, capable of existing in an environment where it interacts with other agents while being autonomous and self-directed, goal-oriented behavior, flexible learning, and capability of adaptations in its behavior over time, based on experience. Identifying the purpose of the model, the questions the model will answer, and the potential users are the key decision variables modelers should ponder upon before embarking on building ABM. The commonly used ABM software includes Repast, Swarm, Netlogo, and MASON. Developing an ABM has several highly interleaved stages: concept development, requirements definition, design, implementation, and operationalization, each of which will be illustrated during the hands-on training session on ABM.
70 Asas-Nanp Symposium Roundtable Discussions
Authors: Menendez Hector M
Published: September 2022

The power and utility of modeling approaches are only as good as the animal scientist's ability to apply them. Critical to this ability is knowledge of what tools are available, how they can be applied, and where to find resources to turn ideas into action. After experiencing a hands-on workshop on Agent-Based Modeling in Agriculture and Making Sense of Big Data, Machine Learning, and Modeling, the National Animal Nutrition Program-Pre-Conference Symposia attendees will have a chance to debrief. This roundtable provides a time to ask critical questions and to raise ideas regarding challenges and opportunities regarding modeling training and implementation to benefit animal science research and student training. Finally, updates will be given to provide a further vision of the next steps regarding the National Animal Nutrition Program's efforts in mathematical modeling.
79 Effects of Nutrient Restriction During Late Gestation of the First Parity on cow and Calf Performance During the Second Lactation
Authors: Davies Shelby L , Redifer Colby A , Rathert-Williams Abigail R , Meyer Allison M
Published: September 2022

Fall-calving Herford-SimAngus heifers were individually fed either 100% (control; CON, n = 10) or 70% (nutrient restricted; NR, n = 12) of NASEM metabolizable energy and metabolizable protein requirements from d 160 of gestation to calving. Postpartum cows were individually fed 100% of energy and protein requirements until d 149 of lactation, then fed tall fescue hay or pasture as a single group through parity 2. Second parity cow performance and calf size were measured at birth, d 30, and d 60 post-calving. Single-quarter colostrum yield was collected pre-suckling. At d 30 and 60 of lactation, 4-hour milk yield was collected. Data were analyzed with the fixed effect of first parity nutritional plane, and calving or breeding date, calf sex, and calf sire (calf measures) were covariates. Milk yield included day and day x treatment (repeated measures). We previously reported that in parity 1, NR reduced (P ≤ 0.04) colostrum and milk yield, calf weaning weight, and dam weaning BCS. From calving to d 60 of parity 2, CON cows had greater (P ≤ 0.008) BCS and greater (P = 0.003) backfat on d 30. Additionally, CON cows had greater (P ≤ 0.002) BW compared with NR at d 30 and 60 of lactation. Calf size was not affected (P ≥ 0.17) by first parity nutritional plane except that cannon length at birth and d 60 tended (P ≤ 0.08) to be longer in CON calves. Colostrum and milk volume and weight were not affected (P ≥ 0.37) by first parity nutritional plane. Milk yield was greater (P ≤ 0.001) at d 30 than d 60. These data indicate that cow BW and energy reserves remained less in parity 2 when heifers experienced late gestational nutrient restriction, but calf size, colostrum yield, and milk yield were unaffected in the second parity.
86 Effects of Hurricane-Related Prenatal Stress on Postnatal Growth and Development of Steers and Heifers in a Limited Resource Beef cow-Calf System
Authors: Odhiambo John F , Elder Kasey A , Fernandez Rachel , Dunn Rachel , Green Kiana , Coble Derrick
Published: September 2022

Cost effective growth in beef calves is necessary for productivity of limited-resource pasture-based cow-calf operations. However, pasture-based production systems are often plagued by environmental stressors such as droughts, high ambient temperatures and adverse weather events that might impede calf growth and development. Our study evaluated the effects of prenatal stressors such as hurricanes on postnatal calf growth and development. Crossbred beef calves born from the same lineage in two different years were compared: Group 1, dams experienced effects of a category 5 hurricane in their late gestation. Group 2, dams experienced no adverse environmental effects their late gestation. Body weights and condition scores were collected at weaning, yearling age, 14 -15 months age and, and 20 months of age. Blood samples were collected periodically to evaluate metabolite and hormone profiles. Data were evaluated by mixed procedures of SAS, and significance determined at P< 0.05. Calf body weights during the juvenile periods were less (P< 0.05) in both steers and heifers born to dams that experienced hurricane-related stress during late gestation compared with their normal contemporaries. However, this weight difference was not evident during adult stages. Further, although blood cortisol was not different in yearling heifers, glucose and progesterone concentrations were decreased (P< 0.05; P< 0.01, respectively) in Group 1 heifers compared with the control group. In adult steers, serum cortisol differed (P< 0.001) between groups (965±38 vs 1282±40.5, pg/mL for Groups 1 and 2 respectively). Indeed, Group 1 steers exhibited decreased serum cortisol concentrations at both summer and fall periods when ambient temperatures were expected to present varied stressful challenges to the animals. Thus, detrimental effects of a natural disaster such as a hurricane may impede postnatal growth and development of heifers and steers as seen in this project. Further investigation is on this phenomenon is warranted. Funded by NIFA CBG # 2021-38821-34599.
88 How can Industry Use Energy and Body Composition Predictions to Achieve Production Expectations?
Authors: Holland Ben P
Published: September 2022

Cattle feeders and consulting nutritionists must weigh numerous data points when making decisions. Each operation must define success in production and set expectations. Then considering inputs, such as cattle genetic potential, production technologies, feeder and fed cattle market conditions, grid premiums and discounts, and ingredient pricing and nutrition composition, they must design systems that are capable of achieving these expectations. Models have been developed for the projection of cattle growth, retained energy, and body composition and can be helpful in designing feeding and management programs. However, intricacies available in models that can lead to improved prediction can be difficult to implement. As a result, data may be underutilized, and decisions are often made based on limited information. This presentation will attempt to consider the dynamic conditions involved in making such decisions as choosing days on feed and determining marketing dates and provide context that can be used by research and industry when developing and applying models in cattle feeding.
100 Gut Inflammation: Fanning non-Specific Flames That Impact Health and Performance
Authors: Abeyta Megan A , Baumgard Lance H , Callaway Todd R
Published: September 2022

Inflammation emanating from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is a key component to suboptimal farm animal productivity. Gut inflammation encompasses more than just acidosis and is a widespread condition in high producing feedlot or dairy cows which is commonly associated with feeding high grain (starch) ration. Many of the direct causes of gastrointestinal inflammation are related to the microbial fermentation in the rumen and in the hindgut, both directly and indirectly. However, many of the impacts on production are “silent” from a health perspective, and are not limited to a single compartment of the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal inflammation is often linked with tight junction dysfunction which is accompanied by gross morphological changes that reduce intestinal barrier function, allowing for intestinal luminal contents and microbes to infiltrate into portal and systemic blood (leaky gut). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an endotoxin found in gram negative bacteria which is a potent antigen, which can cause systemic responses including widespread inflammation. Leukocyte antigen recognition initiates a metabolic switch from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis and thus the immune system becomes an obligate glucose utilizer. The reprioritization in the hierarchy of glucose trafficking reduces glucose availability to support milk and muscle synthesis. GIT hyperpermeability and the ipso facto immune stimulation is accompanied by hypophagia and a unique endocrine footprint characterized by hyperinsulinemia and hyperglucagonemia. Preventing leaky gut should be the nutritionists primary objective and multiple strategies should be considered. The use of probiotics, organic acids, and phytochemicals offer potential alternatives to antimicrobials (ATA) that can alter the microbial population and reduce: 1) microbial activity that leads to the development of conditions leading to barrier dysfunction, 2) impacts of fermentation endproducts on epithelial tissues, and 3) immunostimulation due to LPS reaching the host.
119 Change in Serum Total Lipid Profiles in Dogs Supplemented with Camelina, Flaxseed, or Canola oil for 16 Weeks
Authors: Burron Scarlett , Richards Taylor , Shoveller Anna-Kate , Pearson Wendy , Grant Caitlin E , Akhtar Nadeem , Trevizan Luciano
Published: September 2022

There are few data describing the effects of different oils on fatty acid (FA) metabolism in dogs. Our objectives were to assess the effects of camelina (CAM), flaxseed (FLAX), and canola oil (OLA) on the serum total lipid FA profiles over a 16-week feeding study. Thirty healthy, adult dogs of various breeds [17 females, 13 males; 7.2±3.1 years and 27.4±14.0 kg (mean±SD)] underwent a 4-week dietary wash-in period on a commercial, low-fat kibble top dressed with 8.2g sunflower oil/100g food intake. Dogs were blocked by breed, age, and size, and assigned to receive CAM, FLAX, or OLA for 16-weeks at the same dose as wash-in. Serum total FA were measured using gas chromatography from dogs at baseline and week 16. Data were analyzed with ANOVA using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS. In all treatments, the final percent area of pooled and individual omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) FAs were inversely related, with n-3 being greater at week 16 and n-6 less at week 16 compared with baseline (p< 0.05). Conversely, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid showed accumulation at week 16 and docosahexaenoic acid was less at week 16 than baseline for all treatments (p< 0.05). Stearidonic acid was greater in FLAX than OLA but both were similar to CAM, and α-linolenic differed among all treatments (FLAX >CAM >OLA) (p< 0.05). Eicosadienoic acid was less in FLAX than CAM and OLA (p< 0.05). Omega-9 FA were greater at week 16 for all treatments and individual FAs (p< 0.05). Eicosaenoic and mead acid were greater in CAM than FLAX and OLA, and oleic acid was greater in FLAX than OLA, but similar to CAM (p< 0.05). Differences among dogs fed camelina, flax, and canola oils were due to the inherent FA concentrations of the oil and suggest all oils are suitable for increasing serum n-3 concentrations.
120 Seasonal Variation of Select Serum Electrolyte Concentrations in Siberian Huskies Housed Outside in Ontario Canada from may Until October
Authors: McCorkell Terence C , Singh Pawanpreet , Templeman James , Cargo-Froom Cara , Shoveller Anna-Kate
Published: September 2022

The effect of season has been recognized in both human and veterinary medicine for its influence on various hematological and biochemical parameters. However, limited research has been conducted in dogs regarding seasonal electrolyte changes, especially in those non-exercising and housed outdoors. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of seasonal variation in ambient conditions on electrolyte status in 28 outdoor-housed adult Siberian huskies (13 females: 8 spayed, 5 intact and 15 males: 9 neutered, 6 intact). Dogs had an average age of 5.3 ± 2.8 years and body weight of 23.22 ± 3.73 kg. Dogs were fed one of four dry extruded diets formulated with the same mineral premix. Fasted blood samples were collected monthly from May until October and sera were analyzed for Cl-, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and P using photometric analysis. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS with dog as a random effect and temperature, spay-neuter status, and age as fixed effects. Serum Na+, K+, Ca2+, and P concentration were least in May, and greatest in September, October, October, and June, respectively (P< 0.05). Conversely, serum Mg2+ were greatest in May and September, and least in August (P< 0.05). Serum Cl- were greatest in May and October, and least in July (P< 0.05). Across all months, females had decreased serum Ca2+ than males, intact dogs had greater serum Cl-, and younger dogs (<3 years of age) had greater serum P compared with older dogs (P< 0.05). These results suggest that dogs experience significant changes in electrolyte balance due to seasonal and ambient variation. Those that are higher risk for electrolyte loss and imbalance may benefit from supplementation during the summertime. Further research is needed to understand if seasonal or ambient variations drive these changes and if they compromise athletic performance.
126 Antioxidant-Containing Kibble Supplemented to Adult Cats Elicited Improvements in Antioxidant Outcomes and C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Panasevich Matthew , Daristotle Leighann , Lin Ching-Yen , Frantz Nolan
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate oxidative health biomarkers in healthy male and female adult cats (n=30; 10 male and 20 female, avg age and BW + SD 3.34 ± 3.19 years; 3.85 ± 1.07 kg) fed an adult maintenance diet (Blue Buffalo Healthy Living Adult Chicken and Brown Rice) without (control diet) and supplemented with an antioxidant-containing kibble (test diet; proprietary blend containing blueberries, cranberries, and other antioxidant-containing ingredients). Both diets analyzed as 35.9% crude protein, 19.8% fat, 2.1% crude fiber, 6.4% moisture, 28.6% carbohydrate as-is. We hypothesized that test feeding would reduce serum pro-oxidative biomarkers, compared with control feeding. The study protocol was first approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. All cats were fed a base kennel maintenance diet (no added antioxidants beyond maintenance requirements) for 14d before treatment phase. Animals were then randomized to control or test for a 28d treatment period in a randomized cross-over design. Base kennel maintenance diet was provided for a 14d washout, followed by another treatment period. Serum was collected on days 0, 14, and 28 of for biomarkers analysis. Data were analyzed as a mixed models 2-way ANCOVA (SAS v9.4). Significant differences between treatments were set at P<0.05. Average daily food intake and body weight were similar between treatments for the duration of the study. Serum advanced glycation end-products and malondialdehyde were significantly (P<0.05) less when animals consumed test diet compared with control diet. Interestingly, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was decreased and Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand was greater (P<0.05) when cats were fed test diet compared with control diet. These data suggest that inclusion of an antioxidant-containing kibble extruded to preserve antioxidant activity to a base kibble exhibits some favorable modulation to serum antioxidant markers and CRP in cats. These observations warrant additional research to elucidate the effects.
134 Ingredients That Modify the Immune System
Authors: Bobeck Elizabeth A
Published: September 2022

Companion animal diets have moved beyond providing complete nutrition for growth or maintenance and into functional outcomes that maintain and improve health and longevity. Select dietary ingredients have additional effects, intended or not, on animal physiology and immune function. Many immune-altering nutrients are fats or fat-soluble, including omega-3 fatty acids, essential oils, phytogenic compounds, and Vitamins A, E, and D. Examples of other related ingredients to which the immune system is responsive include phytogenic compounds, zinc, and probiotics. Because composition and inclusion rate of these nutrients impact immune function and physiology, a focused and intentional selection of specific ingredients is one method to alter inflammatory cascades in animals consuming the diet. While work in human, livestock, and companion animal models is working to identify therapeutic inclusion rates for these nutrients and ingredients, it should be noted that physiological alterations are nutrient-specific and are seen in both over and under-inclusion. For example, inclusion above currently recommended levels may optimize immune function and reduce inflammation in the case of vitamin D or omega-3 PUFA, while for zinc, additional pharmacological supplementation above requirements may inhibit immune function. Probiotics need to be specifically selected and included continuously for maximal benefit. When choosing to formulate an anti-inflammatory diet for long-lived animals, it must also be considered that important “background” functions of the immune system, including monitoring for and clearing pathogenic microbial populations, may be downregulated due to a general reduction in immune reactivity. Continued work to understand how diet and nutrition impact immunity, and how to balance inflammation through nutrition, is an area of active research and will inform downstream users how to best use data to impact consumers of that feed in desirable ways.
154 Supplementation of Late Gestation Metabolizable Energy in Beef Cows Reduces Mobilization of Body Reserves Prepartum
Authors: Croft Emily , Hare Koryn S , Wood Katharine M , Penner Gregory B , Steele Michael A
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated how late gestation metabolizable energy (ME) intake affects performance and metabolism in beef cattle. Primiparous (PP; n = 45) and multiparous (MP; n = 107) Angus-Simmental cows were blocked by calving date and randomly assigned to treatments providing 80 (LME; n = 52), 100 (CME; n = 51), or 120% (HME; n = 49) of ME requirements for 53 d prior to calving. Postpartum, cows were fed the same diet. Rib and rump fat depths were measured by ultrasonography on d -54, -40, -26, -13, 13, 27, and 55 relative to calving. Plasma and serum were collected on d -53, -39, -25, -10, -3, 7, 13, 27, and 55 relative to calving. Serum glucose, beta-hydroxybutyrate, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and urea, and plasma insulin were measured. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX with the fixed effects of treatment, parity, and treatment×parity, and random effects of block and cow (block), accounting for repeated measures. Absolute loss of rib and rump fat prepartum was lesser (P ≤ 0.03) for HME. Primiparous heifers lost more (P < 0.01) rib fat prepartum. Prepartum serum urea and NEFA were elevated (P < 0.01) for LME, whereas glucose was elevated (P < 0.01) for HME compared to LME. Multiparous cows had greater (P ≤ 0.02) serum NEFA and plasma insulin prepartum, whereas PP heifers had elevated (P < 0.01) glucose. Treatment did not affect (P ≥ 0.56) the absolute loss of rib nor rump fat postpartum. Serum urea was greater (P < 0.01) in LME than HME postpartum. Multiparous cow serum urea and beta-hydroxybutyrate postpartum was elevated (P ≤ 0.01) postpartum, whereas PP cows had elevated (P < 0.01) plasma insulin. Supplementing excess ME during late gestation reduced mobilization of body reserves before calving but prepartum effects did not continue postpartum.
156 Effect of Increasing Levels of Ergot Alkaloids in the Diet of Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Sarich Jenna M , Stanford Kim , Schwartzkopf-Genswein Karen S , McAllister Tim A , Blakley Barry R , Penner Gregory B , Ribeiro Gabriel O
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the effects of feeding ergot alkaloids (EA) at increasing levels (0, 0.75, 1.5, and 3.0 ppm) to feedlot beef cattle over backgrounding (BG) and finishing (FS) phases on growth performance and carcass quality. Steers (n=240; 280±32 kg) were blocked by weight and randomly allocated to 16 pens (4 pens/treatment; 15 steers/pen). Treatments included: no added EA (CTL); or EA added at 0.75 (EA075); 1.50 (EA150); and 3.0 ppm (EA300). Steers were fed barley-based BG diets containing 40% concentrate:60% silage (DM basis) for 84 d, then stepped up over 28 d to a 90% concentrate:10% silage (DM basis) FS diet for 119 d. Steers fed EA300 received CTL in FS after 77 days on feed (DOF). In the BG phase, a quadratic decrease (P=0.05) in ADG and a linear decrease in final BW (P=0.03) and total BW gain (P=0.02) were observed with increasing EA. In the FS phase, up to 77 DOF, there was a linear decrease in steers DMI (P=0.04), ADG (P=0.01), and total BW gain (P=0.01) with increasing levels of EA. Over the full FS phase (119 DOF), a quadratic response was observed for ADG (P=0.05), final BW (P=0.05), total BW gain (P=0.02) and carcass weight (P=0.05) with steers fed EA150 showing the lowest performance. Gain:feed was not affected (P>0.20) by EA in the BG or FS phase. Dressing percentage (P=0.02) showed a quadratic effect with EA300 being the lowest. Additionally, a linear increase in lean meat yield (P< 0.001) was observed with increasing EA. Including EA in the diet promoted a linear increase in rectal temperature (P< 0.01). In conclusion, increasing levels of EA in the diet reduced growth performance, but when EA was removed, steers showed compensatory weight gain.
159 Effect of dry or Temper Rolling of High or low Protein Wheat and its Impact on Rumen Parameters, Liver Abscesses, and Growth Performance of Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Meadows Amanda C , Terry Stephanie , Penner Gregory B , McAllister Tim A , Ribeiro Gabriel O
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of low (13%, LP) or high protein (18%, HP) wheat grain subjected to dry (DR) vs temper rolling (TR) on growth performance, rumen parameters, and liver abscesses of feedlot steers. A backgrounding (BG) to finishing (FN) feedlot trial was performed using 160 302 ± 34 kg; 24 ruminally cannulated) Angus steers blocked by weight and randomly assigned to 16 pens. Cannulated steers (3 per pen) were housed within 8 pens equipped with a feed intake monitoring system. BG diets contained 35% wheat grain, 60% barley silage, and 5% supplement on a DM basis. Transition (TN) diets included sequential increases to the proportion of wheat grain in the total mixed ration to achieve a FN diet comprised of 85% wheat grain, 10% barley silage, and 5% supplement. Rumen pHs were measured with an indwelling logger and rumen samples were collected in each phase. Steers fed the HP-DR and LP-TR diets had lower (P≤0.03) ruminal pH than HP-TR during the TN phase. Tempering HP wheat reduced (P<0.001) the generation of fine particles during rolling. During BG and TN, steers fed diets containing HP wheat had higher (P<0.001) ruminal NH3 concentrations than the LP treatments. NH3 measurements during the FN phase were higher (P=0.01) for the LP-DR treatment compared to the LP-TR treatment. Greater (P≤0.01) C2:C3 ratios were noted for HP wheat diets during the BG and FN phases whereas the C2:C3 ratio was reduced (P<0.001) with TR wheat during the FN phase. Greater (P= 0.01) NEgs were assessed for FN steers fed LP wheat. Steers fed HP wheat had more severe (P<0.001) abscesses. Results suggest that HP wheat may limit the growth performance of FN cattle and increase the severity of liver abscesses.
160 Effects of Bacillus Licheniformis PF9 on Growth, Nutrient Absorption, gut Barrier Integrity, Immunity, and Intestinal Microbiota of Weaned Piglets Challenged with Enterotoxigenic Escherichia Coli F4
Authors: Xu Haoxiang , Lu Peng , Gong Joshua , Yu Hai , Azevedo Paula , Gong Joshua , Yang Chengbo
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Bacillus licheniformis PF9 on growth performance and gut health of weaned piglets challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) F4. Thirty-two weaned piglets susceptible of ETEC F4 were randomly allocated to 4 treatments 1) NNC, basal diet and non-challenged; 2) NC, basal diet; 3) PC, basal diet + 80 mg·kg-1 of Avilamycin; and 4) PF9, basal diet + 109 cfu/kg of Bacillus licheniformis PF9. ETEC F4 decreased average daily gain and increased feed conversion ratio of the NC group. An increase was found in FCR of the PC group during the post-challenge period (P < 0.05). ETEC F4 induced the severity of diarrhea at 3-, 36- and 40-hours post-inoculum (hpi) in the NC group (P < 0.05). Bacillus licheniformis relieved diarrhea severity at 3 hpi (P < 0.05). ETEC F4 reduced the duodenal, jejunal and ileal villus height of the NC group. A decrease in duodenal villus height in the PC group (P < 0.05). ETEC F4 reduced the relative mRNA level of Na+-glucose cotransporter 1 in the NC group (P < 0.05). Compared to the NC and NNC groups, Bacillus licheniformis increased relative mRNA levels of Aminopeptidase N, Occludin, Zonula occludens-1, and SGLT1 (P < 0.05). Bacillus licheniformis increased the relative mRNA level of excitatory amino acid transporter 1 (P < 0.05). Bacillus licheniformis showed a lower relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in the colon than piglets from the NNC group (P < 0.05). The non-challenged group had a higher relative abundance of Firmicutes in the ileum than the challenged piglets, meanwhile, a lower relative abundance of Proteobacteria in the ileum and colon in the NC group (P < 0.05). This study provides evidence that Bacillus licheniformis can be a potential antibiotics alternative to improve the gut health of piglets.
161 Effect of High- and low-Fiber Diets on Growth Performance in Growing-Finishing Pigs Selected for low or High Feed Efficiency
Authors: Jin Shunshun , Yu Changning , Xu Haoxiang , Azevedo Paula , Lei Huaigang , Rodas Argenis , Nyachoti Martin , O Karmin , Yang Chengbo
Published: September 2022

Understanding the effects of high- and low-fiber diets on the growth performance of pigs with different feed efficiencies will help the livestock industry develop new strategies to reduce the costs of pig production. In this study, 18 Landrace × Large White sows with high and low estimated breeding value on feed conversion ratio (EBV-FCR) were inseminated with semen from Large White with known EBV-FCR to produce 9 litters of low feed efficiency pigs and 9 litters of high feed efficiency pigs. A total of 94 growing pigs with low or high feed efficiency were fed a low-fiber (3% crude fiber) or high-fiber (6% crude fiber) content diet in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement for 70 days. Pigs fed a high-fiber diet presented higher body weight (BW) on day 70 (P < 0.05). High feed efficiency pigs presented lower average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) than low feed efficiency pigs from day 0 to 70 (P< 0.05). There was an interaction between fiber and feed efficiency group on average daily gain (ADG;P < 0.05) and FCR (P < 0.05) from day 0 to 35. High feed efficiency pigs fed a high-fiber diet presented lower FCR than low feed efficiency pigs fed a low-fiber diet (P< 0.05). Low feed efficiency pigs fed a low-fiber diet showed the lowest ADG (P< 0.05). Regardless of efficiency groups, pigs fed a high-fiber diet presented higher ADG and lower FCR than pigs fed a low-fiber diet from day 42 to 70 (P< 0.05). These results suggest that high feed efficiency pigs can present lower FCR and ADFI without reducing final BW and ADG. Feeding a high-fiber diet can increase ADG and reduce FCR in the later stages of the experiment.
171 Sex-Sorted Sperm Used for Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination and in Vitro Fertilization in Wood Bison
Authors: Zwiefelhofer Eric M , Adams Gregg P , Zwiefelhofer Miranda L , Mackie Paula , Mastromonaco Gabriela F
Published: September 2022

Wood bison (Bison bison athabascae) are a threatened species native to Canada. In a conservation setting such as zoos, females are preferred over males and sex-sorted sperm may help skew the proportion of females born. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of sex-sorted sperm in fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI, Experiment 1) and in vitro fertilization (IVF, Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, females in bison herds at the University of Saskatchewan and Toronto Zoo were synchronized with 3.3 mg estradiol-17ß + 50 mg progesterone and given a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device for 8 days. At device removal, bison were given 500 µg of cloprostenol, and 72 h later were given 2500 IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and inseminated with either sex-sorted or conventional sperm. A second insemination occurred 24 h after hCG. Pregnancy diagnosis and fetal sexing was done by transrectal ultrasonography at 30- and 70-days post-AI, respectively. In Experiment 2, cumulus oocyte complexes collected transvaginally from live bison were fertilized in vitro with either sex-sorted or conventional sperm. Cleavage and embryo rates were determined at 3- and 7-days post fertilization, respectively. Proportional data were compared by chi-square. In Experiment 1, there was no effect of herd (P=0.17) or sperm (P=0.68) on pregnancy per AI (P/AI) at 30 days (total=25/51 [49%]). The proportion of female calves was greater in the sex-sorted than conventional group (9/10 [90%] vs 3/11 [27%]; P< 0.01). In Experiment 2, the cleavage (122/222 [55%] vs 62/94 [66%];P=0.07) and embryo rate (18/222 [8%] vs 14/94 [15%]; P=0.07) tended to be lower in the sex-sorted than the conventional group. In summary, sex-sorted sperm increased the proportion of female bison calves born following FTAI. Future efforts will include improving embryo production rates following IVF with sex-sorted sperm. Funding provided by Toronto Zoo, Mitacs, and STGenetics.
179 Today's Beef Quality Assurance Program: Rancher Involvement and the Future of Developing Sustainability Programs
Authors: Klopatek Sarah C , Cantwell Allison , Roche Leslie , Stackhouse-Lawson Kim R , Oltjen James W
Published: September 2022

To date the most successful rancher educational program has been the beef quality assurance (BQA) program. However, it is not understood why ranchers chose to become BQA certified. Without this knowledge it becomes increasingly difficult to build new rancher educational and sustainability focused programs. To gain insight on current BQA program involvement and application of BQA best management practices (BMP) we administered an online multi-state survey to cattle ranchers in collaboration with state Cattlemen’s Associations. In total, the survey consisted of 45 questions and was divided into 3 sections including: 1) rancher demographics, 2) BQA participation and current BQA BMP, and 3) willingness to join new rancher sustainability program. Of the survey participants (n=884) ranchers that were BQA certified at any time were less likely to administer injections in areas other than the neck compared with ranchers who were not certified (p< 0.05), demonstrating the effectiveness of the BQA program. More than 87% (n=542) of survey respondents listed “improving animal health and welfare” as one of their top three reasons for joining BQA, while only 22% (n=137) listed “animals fetching a higher price”. This result highlights that although financial incentive was a factor in program adoption, animal health and welfare was at the forefront of ranchers’ minds. The survey indicated that ranchers who were male, ranched for a greater number of years, grazed more total acres, and received a larger percent of income from ranching were more likely to be BQA certified (p< 0.05). Finally, those who were BQA members were more likely to state that joining a rancher sustainability program would be beneficial to their operation (p< 0.05). Overall, this survey provides insight into BQA program and BMP adoption and demonstrates that the BQA program could be a possible framework for creating a successful rancher sustainability program.
188 Comparison of Nutritive Value Parameters to Normalized Difference Vegetation Index by Means of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Montgomery Sarah M , Karisch Brandi B , Czarnecki Joby
Published: September 2022

Remote sensing has opened doors for grazing management by allowing producers to monitor forage in a more efficient way. The objective of this study was to observe the relationship between the normalized vegetation index (NDVI) from images taken by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to nutritive value parameters. This project took place at the H. H. Leveck Animal Research Center located in Starkville, MS where 9, 2-hectare pastures planted in Marshall annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) were utilized. Each 2-hectare pasture was subdivided into 0.20-hectare sections where forage samples were collected from 3, 1/4 of a meter quadrat every 14-days. Images were taken with UAV over a 76-day grazing period every 14-days. Images from the UAV were captured at 121.9 m above ground level using a DJI inspire 2 rotor wing fitted with a MicaSense RedEdge camera (MicaSense; Seattle, WA). Images were processed using Pix4D (Pix4D SA; Prilly, Switzerland) and analyzed in QGIS (QGIS; OSGeo; Finland). Raster calculator in QGIS was utilized to calculate NDVI values. Forage samples were analyzed using NIR for crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), relative forage quality (RFQ), and invitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and correlated to NDVI values. Regression analysis was conducted in R (RStudio, PBC) using the package easynls (easynls-package) procedure within package ggplot2 (ggplot2-package). Regression models were obtained through a backward-elimination technique. Neutral detergent fiber (r2 = 0.27) had the best correlated relationship to NDVI compared with CP (r2 = 0.21), ADF (r2 = 0.25), RFQ (r2 = 0.18), and IVDMD (r2 = 0.22). As NDVI values increased, CP, RFQ, and IVDMD increased while ADF and NDF decreased. There was a weak correlation between all nutritive value parameters and NDVI values. In conclusion, weak relationships indicate that NDVI values may not be the best predictor of nutritive value.