bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSXI-20 Proteic dry supplements enriched with a blend of tannin-based extract enhance the performance of grass-fed cattle during the rainy season in tropical regions
Authors: Manella Marcelo Q , Coan Rogerio , Mesquita Washington , Paula Eduardo , Arnandes Renata Branco
Published: September 2024

During the rainy season, utilizing grass-fed cattle is a common and cost-effective approach for fattening in tropical regions. Despite having access to high-quality forage, cattle often require protein-rich supplementation to optimize their performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a commercially available feed additive, SilvaFeed BX (Indunour, Buenos Aires, Argentina), derived from quebracho and chestnut tannin extracts along with saponins, on the performance of grazing beef cattle supplemented during the rainy season (January-May 2023) in tropical region. A total of 465 Nelore or crossbred Nelore-Angus (F1) bullocks were distributed across 14 paddocks of Urocloa brizantha using a completely randomized block design, stratified by initial body weight (BW), at a commercial grass-fed ranch in the northern part of Goias State, Brazil. Each paddock served as an experimental unit, with the number of animals dependent on paddock size, initially stocked at a rate of 2 animal units (AU)/ha based on initial BW. The animals were provided with a supplement (25% CP, DM basis) containing flavomicin (25 ppm/kg supplement) offered daily at 0.5% of BW (Control), or supplemented with a blend of tannins (BX, 3,5 g/kg supplement). Individual BW were recorded at processing and shipment, while carcass weight was measured individually at the packing plant. Carcass gain was calculated as the difference between carcass weight and the estimated initial carcass weight, set at 50% of the initial BW, in accordance with customary practices for negotiating feeder cattle in Brazil. Statistical analysis was conducted using Proc Mixed of SAS, with treatment, breed, and treatment*breed considered as fixed effects, and treatment (paddock) as random. Residuals were evaluated for normality, and mean comparisons were conducted using LSMEANS. The results revealed that BX-treated cattle exhibited significant improvements in most performance traits: average daily gain (ADG; 1.181 vs. 0.842 kg/d, P = 0.0027), total BW gain (127.46 vs. 79.13 kg, P = 0.0205), final BW (FBW; 548.74 vs. 517.94 kg, P = 0.0011), hot carcass weight (HCW; 297.21 vs. 277.84 kg, P = 0.0002), and carcass daily gain (0.785 vs. 0.626 kg/d, P = 0.0035; Table). Although no interaction was observed between treatment and breed, Nelore cattle exhibited heavie initial BW (466.29 vs. 392.92 kg, P = 0.0026) compared with F1 cattle. F1 cattle demonstrated superior performance in ADG (1.216 vs. 0.807, P = 0.0008), total gain (141.26 vs. 65.31, P = 0.0015), and carcass daily gain (0.790 vs. 0.621 kg/d, P = 0.0022). In conclusion, supplements containing a blend of tannins and saponins were found to enhance overall performance traits of finished grass-fed cattle, independent of the breed evaluated.
PSXI-22 Effects of a palatability enhancer and olive bioactives on performance and physiological status of veal calves after farm reception
Authors: Blanch Marta , Pastor Jose J
Published: September 2024

Veal calves have to deal with several stressors early in life, such as transport and commingling with animals of unknown health histories from multiple different origins; making the reception a possible critical period where animals should adapt to all these challenges. Previous studies in unweaned rosée calves have shown that the use of feed additives (FA) to enhance intake and immunity at farm arrival could be a strategy to minimize the negative effects of stress and feed restriction during transportation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a palatability enhancer (PE) and olive bioactives (OB) on performance and serum biomarkers in veal calves. Dairy beef calves [n = 252; BVD-free; body weight (BW) = 44.6 ± 3.63 kg] coming from auction market were distributed in 3 treatments (84 animals/tr) during 8 wk: i) calves fed concentrate and MR without FA (negative control, NC); ii) calves fed concentrate and MR with a PE based on sweeteners (PE); and iii) calves fed concentrate with PE and MR with PE and OB (PEOB). On farm arrival animals were housed individually until 5 wk of age, when animals were grouped in pens of 4 calves. Performance was monitored during the trial and serum samples were collected 48 h after the mixing (25 animals/tr) to analyze several biomarkers related to immune system (MILLIPLEX MAP Kit) and energy status (BHBA). Performance data were analyzed with a mixed-effects model and serum biomarkers by One-Way Anova with Fisher’s LSD correction for multiple comparisons (normally distributed data) or by non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn’s correction (data not normally distributed). Final BW was greater (P = 0.01) in PE and PEOB groups compared with NC (+2.2 kg and +2.6 kg, respectively). Concentrate feed intake (FI) during first 4 wk tended (P = 0.06) to be greater in PEOB compared with NC (+15%); however, after grouping (wk 5 to wk 8), PE showed a ldecreased FI compared with NC (-9.5%, P = 0.01). Forty-eight hours after animal grouping, PEOB showed reduced concentration of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α than NC and PE (P = 0.03). Moreover, PEOB and PE had a greater concentration of interleukin (IL) 36Rα (P < 0.05) and IP10 (P < 0.01) compared with NC. Besides PEOB tended (P < 0.15) to have decreased concentrations of MIP1α, IL1α, and BHBA compared with PE. In conclusion, the addition of a PE and OB improved the adaptation of veal calves after reception, resulting in greater final BW. The improvement in early FI and the immunomodulatory effect in challenging situations displayed by the treatments may partially explain the observed benefits.
PSXI-19 Effects of different forage levels on performance and feeding behavior of feedlot cattle
Authors: Souza Mailza G , Canêdo Mendonça Filipe Araújo , Ventorin João Pedro Azevedo , Zulim Guilherme Ortega , Afonso Rafael Rodrigues , Prandini Vitor Tenan , Marinho Benjamim Clemente , Lanna Dante Pazzanese
Published: September 2024

Body weight (BW) gain is highly correlated with profitability and positively associated with feed efficiency and reduced environmental impact of beef production. Fiber stimulates rumination which is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and maintenance of animal health. The quantity and quality of fiber in the diet affect BW gain and feeding and rumination patterns. Forage neutral detergent fiber (fNDF) has a key role in regulating intake and health. This study tested two levels of forage inclusion NDF on performance and feeding behavior of Nellore bulls. Corn silage was the source of forage fiber, diets had 12% or 7% fNDF [23.3% or 13.6% in the total dry matter (DM). Diets had 64% and 73.5% ground corn, and 0.2 and 0.5% potassium chloride respectively for 12% and 7% fNDF. Both treatments included soybean meal (1.5%); cottonseed (7%), urea (1.2%), mineral mixture (2.7%) and monensin (25 ppm). Diets were formulated to meet protein and mineral requirements with RLM model (rlm.app.br). Nellore bulls (n = 40; BW = 460 ± 38 kg and an average age of 20 mo) were fed for 50 d after 21 d adaptation. Each animal was considered as experimental unit in a completely randomized design. On d 21 and 42 behavior was evaluated every 10 min for 24 h. Feed intake was measured using Growsafe feeders. Average daily gain (ADG) was estimated by linear regression based on BW (without fast) obtained in real time scales at the water trough. Data were evaluated by SAS PROC GLM. Daily gain (1.71 vs. 1.43 kg/d, P = 0.0002), DM intake (10.97 vs. 10.00 kg/d, P < 0.001) and feed efficiency (0.154 vs. 0.139, P = 0.04) were greater for the 12% fNDF treatment. Likewise, rumination time was greater for the 12% fNDF compared with the 7% fNDF treatment; 356 and 275 min/d respectively (P = 0.0005). Animals fed 12% fNDF had longer rumination times and improved performance compared with those fed 7%. There were no differences in the number of visits to the troughs or in total feeding time (P > 0.05), with mean visits of 15.17 and 15.43, and feeding times of 145.6 and 146.8 minutes for the 12% and 7% fNDF diets, respectively. Linear correlation between ADG and rumination time was positive r = 0.49 (P < 0.03) and r = 0.28 (P < 0.23), indicating that rumination is associated with an increase in ADG. Coefficient of variation for ADG was 13.4 and 27.2% for 12 and 7% fNDF diets, with greater variability for the low fiber diets. The results highlight the importance of providing adequate forage to feedlot cattle. Results are consistent with previous work from our group demonstrating that the maximum performance is achieved at around 11 to 13% fNDF. Bulls fed 12% fNDF diets had greater BW gain, higher rumination and reduced ADG variation compared with those fed 7% fNDF diets.
PSXI-25 Re-characterizing beef cattle water intake
Authors: Blake Nathan , Walker Matthew , ArunKumar K E , Mata-Padrino Domingo , Holaskova Ida , Wilson Matthew E
Published: September 2024

In the face of a changing climate and growing population, sustainable use of freshwater resources is paramount. Animal agriculture is often viewed as an antagonistic force working against freshwater resource preservation. However, assumptions of water use in beef cattle have cause to be reevaluated. The current published standards for beef cattle water intake were developed from data collected in 1956. Rapid genetic advancement in performance and increasing pressure on animal agriculture to reduce water usage demand that the water intake profiles of cattle be recharacterized. Recently, advancements in water monitoring technologies have granted researchers access to highly informative water intake data. In 2019, we installed RFID-enabled front-end weighing positions equipped with custom metered waterers at our West Virginia University (WVU) Reymann Memorial Research, Outreach, and Education Center (REOC) in Wardensville, WV. In 2022, we installed the same system at the WVU Animal Sciences REOC in Morgantown, WV. These systems allowed us to collect daily body weight (BW) and water intake data on individual animals. From 2019-07-08 to 2024-02-16, 2,020 animals have been evaluated for individual daily BW, feed intake, and water intake at our research locations. Data were collected on animals consigned to the Wardensville Young Sire Performance test by regional beef cattle producers or sourced for research. In total, 1,055 d of data were collected, with data collected during every month, resulting in 149,292 unique daily water intake measurements. Eleven breeds (Angus, Limousin, Angus cross bred, Charolais, SimAngus, Hereford, Simmental, Charolais cross bred, Black Hereford, Akaushi, and Red Angus) were evaluated. The maximum, minimum, and mean age for all animals was 753, 162, and 343 d, respectively. In total, water intake data from 1,255 bulls, 434 steers, and 331 heifers were collected (Table). Our large, highly granular database of individual animal daily water intake has allowed us to generate profiles of water intake for large segments of beef cattle. These findings will aid in the re-standardization of expected water intakes and the improvement of beef cattle sustainability.
PSXII-24 Use of a commercial blend of tannins as feed additive for feed lot cattle on large pen trial improves carcass weight and carcass feed conversion
Authors: Manella Marcelo Q , Campanini Andre , Boin Celso , Paula Eduardo , Arnandes Renata Branco , Lopes Vagner
Published: September 2024

The utilization of commercial tannin extracts as feed additives holds promise for enhancing animal performance and health within commercial feedlot settings. This study aimed to assess the impact of a commercial tannin blend, SilvaFeed BX (Indunor, Buenos Aires, Argentina), sourced from quebracho and chestnut extracts along with saponins, on the performance of beef cattle. Nelore bullocks (n = 1,198) were allocated to 12 pens in a completely randomized block design, stratified by initial date, at a commercial feedlot facility in Goias State, Brazil. Each pen served as an experimental unit, with 10 pens housing 100 animals each and 2 pens containing 99 animals each. The experimental treatments included a Control diet with monensin alone [25 ppm/kg dry matter (DM)] or treated with BX (0.7 g/kg DM) on top of the control diet. Individual body weights (BW) were recorded at processing (initial BW; IBW) and shipment (final BW; FBW), while DM intake (DMI) was averaged per pen throughout the study duration. Carcass weight (CW) was individually measured at the packing plant, and carcass gain was calculated as the discrepancy between carcass weight and the estimated initial carcass weight, set at 50% of the IBW, aligning with customary practices for negotiating feeder cattle in Brazil. Statistical analyses were conducted using Proc Glimmix in SAS, treating pens and treatments as fixed effects and blocks as random effects, with IBW considered as a covariate. Residuals were assessed for normality, identifying three outliers. Mean comparisons were facilitated using LSMEANS. The results indicated that BX-treated cattle exhibited increased FBW (502.17 vs. 493.64 kg, P = 0.0992), carcass weight (275.76 vs. 268.78 kg, P = 0.0343), total carcass gain (107.52 vs. 100.54 kg, P = 0.0343), and improved carcass feed conversion (10.46 vs. 11.45 kg DM/kg; Table). Despite numerical differences, the limited number of replications were not enough to detect significant differences between treatments in average daily gain (P = 0.2419), DMI (P = 0.5508), feed conversion (P = 0.2641), or dressing (P = 0.3757). In conclusion, BX, a blend of tannins, exhibits potential for enhancing carcass weight and feed conversion efficiency in Nelore bullocks. Further investigations employing larger sample sizes are warranted to comprehensively elucidate its effects on other performance parameters.
PSXII-16 Effect of including sugar cane molasses on rumen fermentation characteristics in young beef finishing heifers
Authors: De Matos Ellem Maria Almeida , De Filho Sebastiao Campos Valadares , Pinheiro Jardeson , Oliveira Thamys Polynne Ramos , Gandra Livia Moreira , Ebani Yuri Cesconetto , Pereira Mariana Guimarães , de Sousa Luiz Carlos Oliveira , Caton Joel S S
Published: September 2024

In ruminant animals, the use of molasses has benefits related to improved voluntary intake and increased production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the rumen, especially butyrate. Butyrate is closely related to gastrointestinal tract health, as it may contribute to the increase in the absorption area of the ruminal epithelium and improve the utilization of diet components, resulting in improved voluntary intake and immune response capacity in stressful situations, such as weaning. Hence, our objective was to assess the effect of sugar cane molasses on rumen fermentation characteristics in young beef finishing heifers. Newly weaned Nellore × Red Angus heifers (n = 12) averaging 238 ± 5.1 kg body weight (BW), were used. All heifers were housed in individual pens with concrete floors, covered feeders, and drinkers. The basal diet was 50 % concentrate, and consisted of corn silage, sorghum silage, ground corn, soybean meal, urea, and a mineral premix. The diet was provided twice daily at 0700 and 1600 h, allowing up to 10% in orts (as fed). The following treatments were evaluated: control (no addition of powdered molasses) or addition of 50 g/kg of diet [dry matter (DM) basis] of powdered molasses. The experiment lasted for a total of 80 d, including a 14-d adaptation period. On d 68 and 76, rumen fluid samples were collected both before and 4 h after the morning feeding using an oral probe coupled to a vacuum pump. The initial fluid samples were discarded to prevent saliva contamination. The rumen fluid was filtered through four layers of cheesecloth, and then pH was measured. Subsequently, samples were taken and stored in an ultra-freezer (-80°C) for subsequent SCFA analysis. The data were subjected to analysis of variance using the GLM procedure of SAS 9.4 (α = 0.05). Providing molasses increased ruminal pH compared with control heifers (P < 0.032). Adding molasses did not affect SCFA concentration (P > 0.90). Conversely, we detected an effect of molasses on SCFA molar proportion. The molar proportion of both acetate (P < 0.013) and butyrate (P < 0.012) were greater in heifers fed molasses than with controls. On the other hand, dietary molasses addition decreased (P < 0.001). the propionate molar proportion. This resulted in an increased (P < 0.002) acetate-to-propionate ratio in heifers fed diets containing molasses. In conclusion, providing sugar cane molasses enhances rumen fermentation characteristics in young beef finishing heifers.
PSXII-26 The influence of protein supplementation in beef cows during early lactation on growth performance, carcass characteristic and meat quality of progeny
Authors: Maresca Sebastián , Testa María Laura , López Valiente Sebastian O , Rodríguez Alejandro Martín M , Juan Grigera , DiLorenzo Nicolas
Published: September 2024

At 11 ± 4 d of lactation, 30 multiparous Angus cows [body weight (BW) = 476 ± 17 kg, body condition score (BCS) = 4.5 ± 0.3) were stratified by BW and allotted in 6 pens (5 cows/pen). During 75 d of experiment, all pens received ad libitum low quality hay (Panicum italicum; 54.7% TDN, 6.1% CP DM basis) and were randomly assigned to one of two treatments: 1) PS; cows received ad libitum 30% CP supplement including an intake limiter component (Controlmix, Nutralmix SRL, Argentina), or 2) NS; cows were not supplemented. After the experimental period, dams and their calves (PS: 7 males and 8 females; NS: 8 males and 7 females) were managed on improved pastures as a single group until weaning at 213 d of age. After weaning, heifer and steer calves were reared on improved pastures until 448 d of age, then placed into a feedlot with a finishing diet during 73 d until slaughter. Pens were considered the experimental unit and data were analyzed using the PROC MIXED of SAS, considering treatment and sex as a fixed effects and pen as a random effect. Overage dry matter intake (DMI) of hay was not affected by treatments (P > 0.10), and DMI of supplement in PS cows was 4.4 kgּ cow-1ּ d-1. Milk production was greater in PS than NS cows (PS: 5.3, NS: 3.6 kgּ cow-1ּ d-1; P < 0.01). Progeny from PS cows increased BW at weaning (PS: 180, NS: 141 kg; P < 0.01), BW at initial feedlot phase (PS: 300, NS: 252 kg; P = 0.01) and final BW (PS: 415, NS: 354 kg; P = 0.01). After slaughter, progeny from PS cows tended to have increased dressing percentage (PS: 59.0, NS: 58.1%; P = 0.09), had an increased hot carcass weight (PS: 227, NS: 191 kg; P < 0.01), and increased Longissimus muscle (LM) area (PS: 68.5, NS: 60.1 cm2; P = 0.02), while rib fat thickness was not affected by treatments (PS: 7.8, NS: 7.6 mm; P = 0.68). There was no effect of protein supplementation on color (L*, a*, b*) and pH of LM at 24 h postmortem (P > 0.10). In addition, moisture, ether extract and shear force of LM after 4 d of aging were similar between treatments (P > 0.10). There was no treatment × sex interaction for any variables (P > 0.10). This study showed that protein supplementation during early lactation improved growth performance and carcass quality, but did not result in enhanced meat quality of progeny.
PSXII-18 Nitrogen balance and ruminal bacterial diversity indexes of Nellore cattle fed with amylolytic and fibrolytic enzymes in feedlot
Authors: Ferreira Igor Machado Machado , Inácio de Abreu Mateus José Inácio José , Rodrigues Aline Naime Naime , de Souza Gilyard Angelo Pinheiro , Marcon Hiam Jardel , Viquez-Umana Fiorella L , Rodrigues Arlan Araújo , Mantovani Hilário C Cuquetto , Silva Luiz Fernando Costa e , Koontz Anne , Siqueira Gustavo Rezende Rezende , de Resende Flávio Dutra de Dutra
Published: September 2024

This study was carried out to evaluate the use of dietary exogenous enzyme (ENZ) products with amylolytic and fibrolytic activity on nitrogen balance and ruminal alpha and beta diversity of Nellore cattle in feedlot. Rumen cannulated Nellore steers [n = 10; body weigh (BW) = 543 kg ± 28.6 kg] were distributed in a replicate 5 × 5 Latin-square design using individual pens. The treatments consisted of a negative control (CON; without ENZ); Amylase [AML, Amaize, Alltech; 0.5 g/kg of diet dry matter (DM); Xylanase (FBL, Fibrozyme, Alltech; 0.9 g/kg of diet DM]; Half dose (HD; AML 0.25 g/kg of diet DM and FBL 0.45 g/kg of diet DM); and Full dose (FD; AML 0.5 g/kg of diet DM and FBL 0.90 g/kg of diet DM; Table 1). The experimental period lasted 19 d (14 d of adaptation and 5 d of collection). Between d 15 and 18, total urine collection was performed to calculate the nitrogen balance. On d 19 a mixed ruminal sample (6 mL of solid and liquid content) was taken 4 h after feeding and stored at -80 ºC until DNA extraction. Total genomic DNA was extracted using the ZymoBIOMICS DNA Miniprep Kit. The library was prepared using primers for the region V3V4 of the16S rRNA gene; 341F (5’-CCTAYGGGRBGCASCAG-3’) x 806R (5’- GGACTACNNGGGTATCTAAT-3’). The amplicons (~ 470 bp) were sequenced with the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 PE 250 platform. The sequences were analyzed using qiime2 with the SILVA database for the taxonomic assignment. Alpha and beta diversities were calculated in Rstudio using phyloseq. All data were analyzed as orthogonal contrasts assuming treatment as a fixed effect: 1) CON vs. ENZ, 2) AML vs. FBL, 3) HD vs. FD, and 4) AML + FBL vs. HD + FD. Animals that received ENZ had reduced fecal nitrogen excretion (FNE, P = 0.014) and greater efficiency of nitrogen utilization (ENU, P = 0.031) than animals in the CON group. The FBL treatment resulted in greater CP/DOM ratio (P = 0.049), nitrogen balance (P = 0.089), and ENU (P = 0.015) compared with AML treatment. No differences were observed between HD and FD for any nitrogen balance variable (P > 0.10). Animals supplemented with both enzymes (HD + FD) had greater values of N intake (P = 0.018), greater CP/DOM ratio (P = 0.006), and greater FNE (P = 0.002) than animals fed either enzyme alone (AML + FBL). The ENZ supplementation did not impact alpha diversity index or beta diversity (P > 0.10). In conclusion, the addition of exogenous enzymes affected nitrogen balance but not ruminal alpha and beta diversity of Nellore cattle in feedlot.
PSXII-19 Influence of dietary copper concentration and liver sampling location on liver copper concentrations in three breeds (Gulf Coast Native, Suffolk x Hampshire, and Jacob) of sheep
Authors: Alves Julia Baroni , Loh Huey Yi , Scott Jarvis , Parsons Jennifer , Irlbeck Nancy , Fowler Ashley , Engle Terry E
Published: September 2024

Male sheep (n = 27) from three different breeds: 1) Gulf Coast Native (GCN; n = 9 wethers), 2) Suffolk x Hampshire (SHC; n = 9 wethers), and 3) Jacob (JCB; n = 9 intact males) approximately 9 mo of age, [body weight (BW) = 38.16 ± 2.43 kg) were stratified by BW and breed into 3 treatment groups to examine the impact of breed, supplemental copper (Cu) dose, and liver sampling location on liver Cu concentrations. On d 0 of the experiment, liver biopsies were collected from 5 sheep per breed and analyzed for Cu concentrations. Animals were housed in individual pens and received 2% of BW of a pelleted concentrate containing the appropriate Cu treatment once daily and hay in amounts to allow ad libitum access to hay over a 24 h period. Treatments consisted of 1) low Cu (LCu; 15.3 mg Cu/kg DM), 2) moderate Cu (MCu; 17.7 mg Cu/kg DM), and 3) high Cu (HCu; 23.8 mg Cu/kg DM) from CuSO4∙5H2O. On d 50 of the experiment, all animals were weighed and transported to an USDA inspected abattoir and harvested. Following harvest, samples were obtained from the left and right lobes of the liver and thoroughly washed with phosphate-buffered saline. All liver samples were dried, ashed, and reconstituted in 5 mL of 1.2 N HCl for Cu analysis. Data were analyzed as a randomized block design using the MIXED procedure in SAS with individual animal as the experimental unit. There was a three-way interaction between breed x treatment x liver lobe (P < 0.04). The right liver lobe in HCu JCB sheep had greater (P < 0.05) Cu concentrations compared with the left liver lobe. Both the left and right lobes of the liver had greater (P < 0.001) Cu concentrations compared with the initial liver Cu concentration in MCu JCB sheep. The right liver lobe of HCu GCN sheep tended (P < 0.07) to have greater liver Cu concentrations compared with the left liver lobe. The Cu concentration in the right liver lobe tended (P < 0.09) to be greater in MCu sheep compared with the left liver lobe. Liver Cu concentrations within the right lobe of HCu GCN sheep were greater (P < 0.05) than liver Cu concentrations in the right and left liver lobe samples in LCu GCN sheep. Liver Cu concentrations in SHC sheep were not influenced by treatment. Future research examining the impact of breed and Cu supplementation on the molecular mechanisms associated with Cu absorption, storage, and excretion is warranted.
PSXII-29 Effect of tannins level and diet type on in vitro ruminal fermentation and methane production
Authors: Jiménez-Arevalo Valeria Guadalupe , Romero-Pérez Atmir , Talamantes-Montes José Moises , Vázquez-Carrillo María Fernanda , Marquez-Mota Claudia Cecilia , Corona-Gochi Luis
Published: September 2024

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of four levels of a commercial product based on quebracho that contains tannins (Table 1) on three types of diets: Feedlot, Dairy Cattle, and Grazing, using the in vitro gas production technique on ruminal fermentation, dry matter digestibility and methane (CH4) production to determine its potential use as a greenhouse gas mitigation strategy in ruminants. An in vitro trial was carried out in a completely randomized block design with a factorial arrangement of 4 [dose: 0, 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75 % of Protein Enhancer (PE)] x 3 [diet types: low (LFD), medium (MFD) and high forage (HFD)]. The fermentation of each treatment was carried out in triplicate in 120 mL amber antibiotic bottles, containing 0.5 g of substrate previously deposited in nylon bags (24 µm pore size) and 60 mL of a mixture of medium and rumen fluid from three Holstein cows. Incubations were replicated in two independent runs (blocks). The gas pressure (PSI) was recorded at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 48, 60 and 72 hours of incubation. Gas pressure data were converted to gas volume (y = mL of gas; x = gas pressure PSI). Subsequently, pH was measured, and subsamples for analysis of volatile fatty acids (VFA) by gas chromatography were collected. Methane was analyzed with a Crowcon Gas-Pro detector, while ammoniacal nitrogen with a hybrid multimodal microplate reader. The data were analyzed with the MIXED procedure of SAS, and the comparison of means was analyzed with Tukey and with orthogonal polynomials for doses. An interaction (P < 0.05) was observed between diets and PE levels for CH4 concentration (%), where the diet with a greater level of forage and the greatest level of PE (0.75%), showed the least concentration (30%, P < 0.05) compared with the control diet of dairy cattle. On average, CH4 production [mL CH4/g dry matter (DM)] were 83.3, 63.6, and 35.3 for LFD, MFD, and HFD, respectively (Table 2). As the dose of PE increased, rumen pH and N-NH3decreased (P < 0.05), and the total VFA concentration increased (linear effect, P < 0.05; Table 3). Methane production was less (30%) with the grass-based diet and the greatest level of quebracho-based product with condensed tannins, compared with the dairy cattle diet with 0% condensed tannins. The diet for feedlot cattle was more digestible and, therefore, produced more gas and a greater concentration of CH4, in contrast to the grass-based diet, which produces less CH4. It is necessary to carry out in vivo trials, particularly in grazing cattle, to evaluate the effect of the quebracho-based product on performance and in vivo methane emission. This study was partially funded by PAPIIT-DGAPA-UNAM (grant IN212523).
PSXIII-26 Effects of Lentilactobacillus lactis and Lentilactobacillus buchneri on fermentation and aerobic stability in corn grain silages
Authors: Prado Rafaella , Faria Izabela , Medeiros Edna , Bernardes Thiago
Published: September 2024

The inclusion of corn grain silages (early-harvest and reconstitute grain) in the diets has gained wide acceptance in the last decade among Brazilian farms. Thus, reducing losses in these silages is one of the main goals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of an inoculant containing Lentilactobacillus lactis O224 and Lentilactobacillus buchneri LB1819 on fermentation, microbial counts, and aerobic stability in reconstituted corn grain (RCG) and high-moisture corn (HMC). Two experiments were carried out, which tested the inclusion of no additive (CON) and the addition of L. lactis and L. buchneri. For both trials, the inoculant was added at a theoretical rate of 1.5 x 105 CFU/g of feed. For HMC, corn kernels (30.1% of moisture) were processed and ensiled in 5-L jars for 44 or 64 d. For RCG, corn kernels were purchased at 14% moisture, ground, and water was added to reach 35% moisture. Afterwards, ground kernels were ensiled in 5-L jars for 21 or 42 d. Measurements included fermentation end-products (acids, alcohols, and NH3-N), microbial counts (LAB, yeasts, and molds), and aerobic stability. Both trials were set up as a completely randomized design using a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Data were analyzed using MIXED procedure of SAS, followed by a Tukey test at P ≤ 0.05. In both experiments, inoculated silages had reduced concentrations of lactic acid and greater concentrations of acetic acid and 1,2-propanediol. These three fermentation end products increased over time for both treatments. In HMC, there was an interaction between inoculation and time of conservation for propionic acid concentrations. Also, the concentration of NH3-N was greater in treated silages. In both experiments, the population of LAB was greater in inoculated silages. For RCG, yeast population was greater in CON treatment. During aerobic exposure, treated silages remained more stable in both trials. In HMC, the aerobic stability was > 240 h for treated silages, whereas CON silages had 94 h of stability. Still in HMC, the peaks of temperature were 39.5 and 28.2 oC and the pH values (after 10 d of aerobic exposure) were 6.81 and 4.38 for CON and inoculated silages, respectively. In RCG, the aerobic stability was more pronounced at 42 d of conservation (35 vs 66 h for CON and inoculated silages, respectively). Overall, the combination of L. lactis and L. buchneri modulates corn grain silages fermentation and improves aerobic stability.
PSXIII-1 Sensory additives improved the recovery of commercially marketed and transported unweaned dairy beef calves at rearing farm arrival
Authors: Marti Sonia , Devant Maria , Blanch Marta
Published: September 2024

Calf recovery after arrival at the rearing farm in unweaned calves is impaired by periods of stress, feed restriction and fasting during marketing and transportation. The use of feed additives to enhance intake at arrival could be a strategy to minimize those negative effects. A total of 72 calves (71.4 ± 1.72 kg) gathered in a commercial assembly center and transported 9 h to a rearing farm were used to evaluate the effect of a sensory additive (SA) on performance in calves fed 2 L of milk replacer twice daily at 12.5% and ad libitum concentrate feed. Calves were allocated in 8 pens and distributed in 2 treatments (4 pens/treatment): calves fed a concentrate without SA since the beginning of the study (arrival to the rearing farm after transport) until weaning (CON; n = 36); calves fed a concentrate containing SA (SEN; n = 36) from arrival until weaning. Calf body weight (BW) and pen intake were recorded weekly. On d 21 of the study, calves were partially weaned and only milk replacer was offered in the morning, and on d 28 all calves were completely weaned. The study lasted 35 d. Data were analyzed with a mixed-effects model. Average daily gain was greater (P = 0.04) for SEN calves compared with CON calves (0.68 ± 0.019 kg/d and 0.61 ± 0.019 kg/d, respectively). Final BW of SEN calves (95.5 ± 0.89 kg) tended (P = 0.06) to be greater compared with BW of CON calves (93.1 ± 0.89 kg). Finally, average concentrate intake was greater for SEN calves (0.89 ± 0.023 kg/d) compared with CON calves (0.79 ± 0.023 kg/d). Unweaned dairy beef calves receiving sensory additive improved concentrate intake and growth at farm arrival improving their recovery.
PSIX-26 Effectiveness of mineral supplementation during range grazing on mineral status in ewes
Authors: Spurling Ryan A , Petty Dillon C , Gasser Chad L , Christensen Morgan K , Heaton Andrew C , Thacker Eric T , Sweat Alexis , Violett Randall , Rood Kerry A , Thornton Kara J , Page Chad M
Published: September 2024

Mineral supplementation in the intermountain west region of the US may be necessary for maintenance of healthy flocks since important trace minerals are deficient in this region. However, rough terrain can make mineral supplementation challenging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the trace mineral status of ewes on range. We hypothesized that ewes with access to a mineral supplement would have decreased risk of mineral deficiency. In this study, ewes (n = 59) grazed four summer pastures on Cedar Mountain near Cedar City, Utah. Ewes between the ages of 1 and 6 yr of age were stratified by initial body weight (BW) = 87 kg ± 13 kg and breed [black face (BLF; Suffolk) and white face breeds (WF; Targhee, Rambouillet, and their crosses)] into two treatment groups 1) trace mineral supplement ad libitum (TRT; n = 7 BLF and 23 WF) or 2) no mineral supplement (CON; n = 15 BLF and 14 WF). All ewes received a diet of mixed alfalfa and triticale hay without mineral supplementation 30 d before the trial began. A SmartFeed (C-lock Inc.) was used to track individual animal mineral intake. Plasma samples were collected via jugular venipuncture at d 0, 34, 77, and 116. A clinical veterinarian from Utah State University performed liver biopsies at d 0 and 116 on a subset of ewes (n = 10). After the grazing season, plasma and liver samples were sent to the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for analysis of Cu, Mn, Se, and Zn. The mixed procedure of SAS was used to analyze plasma mineral content with day as a repeated measure and individual ID as a random variable. The Glimmix procedure of SAS was used to analyze liver mineral content. Plasma Cu and Se increased (P ≤ 0.05) by day in all ewes throughout the grazing season. No differences related to treatment or breed (P > 0.10) were observed for plasma Cu or Se concentrations. Plasma Mn and Zn decreased (P < 0.0001) by 1.5 ppb and 0.4 ppm, respectively, between d 0 and 116 with no treatment effect (P > 0.10). BLF ewes had 0.3 ppm (P = 0.01) greater plasma Mn concentrations than WF ewes, with no difference (P = 0.6) observed due to treatment. Hepatic Cu and Se increased (P ≤ 0.05) by 114 ppm and 1 ppm, respectively, between d 0 and 116. Hepatic Mn concentrations did not differ (P > 0.10) by day or treatment. Hepatic Zn concentrations tended to increase by day (P = 0.07), 23 ppm between d 0 and 116. CON ewes had 28 ppm greater (P = 0.04) hepatic Zn concentrations than TRT ewes. Additional research is warranted to understand why CON had greater hepatic Zn concentrations than TRT, which may indicate that diverse rangeland forages may provide sufficient concentrations for sheep production in summer months.
PSIX-29 Effects of including sprouted barley in the diets of feeder lambs
Authors: Crump Zachary C , Thornton Kara J , Alberto Anthony F , Okamoto Lillian , Brown Bailee , Spurling Ryan A , Roholt Bryce W , Blackett Brady , Harding Rob , Ranathunga Sanjeewa , Page Chad M , Atkinson Jordan
Published: September 2024

Rapid global population growth is driving up the demand for animal protein, while urbanization and shifting weather patterns strain traditional agricultural methods. Controlled environment systems offer a solution by reducing land use and weather dependence. However, the effect of sprouted barley grown in such systems in the diets of feeder lambs remains uncertain. Western white face wether feeder lambs (n = 80) were stratified by body weight (BW; 40.9 ± 0.84 kg) into four different diet groups (n = 20/group). Diet groups consisted of a typical ration for the region as the control diet (CON) and diet groups with 10%, 20%, or 30% dry matter (DM) inclusion of sprouted barley (SB), replacing some rolled barley. On d 0, 30, and 58 BW and ruminal pH were measured, with BW also being assessed on d 15 and 65. Individual animal feed intakes and feeding behavior were measured throughout the trial using Vytelle technology, and averaged over designated time points on d 15, 30, 45, and 69. All animals were harvested at a commercial lamb abattoir and carcasses were camera graded on d 69. The PROC MIXED procedure of SAS was used to analyze all carcass traits. Day was used as a repeated measure to determine the main effect of diet for BW, dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F), ruminal pH and feeding behavior. It was observed that no diet × day (P = 0.99) or diet (P = 0.94) differences were observed in BW, but day (P < 0.0001) did, observed by an increase (P < 0.0001) in BW over time. No diet × day (P = 0.29) for DMI was observed. However, diet (P = 0.0006) and day (P = 0.004) both impacted DMI, such that DMI increased (P = 0.02) over time and DMI of all SB diets was less (P = 0.0001) than CON, with a maximum of a 12% reduction in DMI. Feed efficiency (G:F) was impacted by diet (P = 0.003), such that all SB diets had increased (P = 0.001) G:F compared with CON. Ruminal pH was impacted by diet × day (P = 0.02); however, each diet was within an acceptable range for ruminal pH. Both feed bouts and bunk visits had no diet × day (P = 0.99) but diet (P < 0.0001) and day (P < 0.005) impacted feed bouts and bunk visits described by SB having an overall increase in feed bouts and bunk visits compared with CON. No differences (P ≥ 0.17) in commercially measured carcass traits were observed. Findings from the present research suggest that incorporating SB into the diet of feeder lambs at levels of 10, 20, or 30% (DM) can enhance feed efficiency by lowering DMI. This enhancement is achieved while ensuring that desirable carcass characteristics are maintained, thereby offering potential benefits in a commercial lamb market. Further economic analysis needs to be done to determine the viability of these systems.
PSIX-24 Greater glucose transporter SLC2A1 expression in milk somatic cells as a compensatory milk production strategy in young prolific Pelibuey ewes
Authors: Felix-Portillo Monserrath , Armendariz-Rivas Ruth , Rodríguez-Almeida Felipe A , Buenabad-Carrasco Lorenzo , Castillo-Castillo Yamicela , Martinez-Quintana Jose A A
Published: September 2024

The number of lambs per birth expressed as prolificacy is a key trait that determines productive efficiency in sheep. However, the optimal litter size depends on the production system, since the milk production of the ewe impacts the postnatal development of lambs. Milk yield, in turn, is related to the expression of the SLC2A1 gene in mammary epithelial cells. This gene encodes the solute carrier/glucose transporter 1 and is upregulated in peak/mid lactation. To assess the productive efficiency of twinning ewes in regard to SLC2A1 expression, the objective of this study was to measure the mRNA levels of SLC2A1 in milk somatic cells (MSC) of Pelibuey ewes lambing twins. Healthy ewes (n = 8), three primiparous and five multiparous, were selected to quantify and compare abundance of SLC2A1 mRNA. Management was under feedlot conditions, and the milk samples were taken between 16 and 20 d post-lambing. Total RNA was purified from MSC and SLC2A1 mRNA abundance were measured by RT-qPCR, relative to β-actin as reference gene. The total birth weight (TBW) and weaning weight of their lambs were recorded, calculating the total weight of lamb weaned (TWLW). TBW, TWLW and relative expression of SLC2A1 were analyzed with PROC GLM of SAS, whereas the Pearson correlation coefficient between TWLW and relative expression of SLC2A1 was calculated using PROC CORR of SAS. Although there was no statistical difference in TBW (P = 0.13) and TWLW (P = 0.38) between lambing groups, a numerical difference was observed both in TBW (5.7 ± 0.54 and 6.9 ± 0.42) and in TWLW (21.5 ± 3.94 and 26.2 ± 3.05) for primiparous and multiparous, respectively. The abundance of SLC2A1 mRNA were 3.1-fold change (P = 0.0005) greater in MSC of primiparous ewes than in the multiparous ones (Figure 1). In multiparous ewes a positive correlation, r = 0.96 (P = 0.01) was found between TWLW and relative expression of SLC2A1. It is concluded that greater relative expression of SLC2A1 in young prolific ewes could be a compensatory mechanism to produce more milk to feed their lambs, even with a smaller udder volume. Such findings give way for further research on the subject.
PSIX-25 Sums and relationships of fatty acids of lamb meat fed with marine microalgae meal (Schizochytrium sp.) and vitamin E
Authors: de Valença Roberta Lima , Sobrinho Américo Garcia Silva , de Andrade Nomaiací , Almeida Marco Túlio Costa
Published: September 2024

The meat production chain, while seeking to reduce production costs, has been demanding in terms of quality, with growing consumer concern regarding the benefits and harms that meat can bring to health. In this sense, the composition of ruminant fat has been a concern for the community in general, due to it being mostly composed of saturated fatty acids (SFA), Supplementary sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the diet of ruminants are being researched, especially long-chain ones, such as those present in some species of marine microalgae; however, these fatty acids are susceptible to oxidation, and the use of an antioxidant is recommended, like vitamin E. Given the above, the objective of this work was to evaluate the concentrations and relationships of fatty acids in the meat of Ile de France lambs fed with marine microalgae meal (Schizochytrium sp.) and vitamin E. Newly weaned (n = 32), 60-d-old, intact Ile de France breed lambs, with body weight (BW) = 20.0 kg were randomly distributed into four treatments: CO: control diet; FA: diet with 4% seaweed meal; VE: diet with 1,000 mg of vitamin E; or FAVE: diet with 4% seaweed meal and 1,000 mg of vitamin E. The lambs were slaughtered at 35 kg BW and their meat was evaluated regarding the fatty acid profile, to then obtain concentration and relationships of fatty acids in lamb meat. The data were evaluated in a completely randomized design, with four treatments and eight replications, with the means of the analysis of variance compared using the Tukey test, with 5% significance. A greater (P < 0.01) AGS and decreased AGI concentration were observed in the VE diet (51.47 and 48.53%, respectively), the greatest (P < 0.01) AGI and monounsaturated (AGMI) concentrations, were observed in the CO diet, with 53.63 and 45.14%, respectively. The concentration of PUFA in the FA treatment was greater (P < 0.01) in relation to the VE treatment and like the others (Table 1). The Σn–6 was greater in the CO treatment (7.44%) and less in the VE (4.22%), whereas the Σn–3 was 9.6 times greater (P < 0.01) in the FA treatment (4. 04%) in relation to CO (0.42%), the AVEF treatment exhibited the second greatest values (2.63%), followed by VE (0.49%). The n-6:n-3 ratio was 14 times less (P < 0.01) in the FA treatment (1.24) compared with CO (17.71), the second least value was in the FAVE (1.64), in the VE treatment, a ratio of 8.61 was observed. Seaweed flour from the genus Schizochytrium potentially increases concentration of n-3 in lamb meat and greatly reduces the n-6:n-3 ratio, resulting in a healthier food. Vitamin E, combined or not with a source of PUFA, does not bring benefits in terms of the fatty acid profile.
PSX-25 Performance, carcass, wholesale, and retail cuts yield of genetically improved entire or castrated crossbred lambs fed total rations under heat stress conditions
Authors: Llanos Dangeli , Almeyda-Domenech Camilo , Domenech Katherine , Fernandez John , Rodriguez Abner A
Published: September 2024

Lamb production in tropical areas is generally conducted with native animals in extensive grazing conditions on naturalized pastures under heat stress. Strategies to enhance productivity using genetically improved intact or castrated crossbred lambs fed with total ratios (TR) need to be evaluated. The performance of intact Dorset-Criollo (n = 10, EDSC, 20.48 kg), intact Dorper-Criollo (n = 8, EDPC, 20.58 kg) and castrated Dorper-Criollo (n = 4, CDPC, 18.40 kg) lambs fed a TR during the growing-finishing phase was evaluated. The TR contained 70% concentrate and 30% grass hay and was fed at 4% of lamb body weight (DMB) until slaughter (SBW, 38 to 40kg). During the trial lambs dry matter intake was recorded daily while weekly weights were taken to determine days on feed (DOF) to reach SBW, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion (FC). At slaughter, yields of hot (HCY) and cold (CCY) carcass, wholesale cuts (WSC) including neck (N), shoulder (SL), ribs 5-12 (RIBS), loin (LN) and leg (LG), and retail cuts (RTC) including shoulder chops (SCH), French chops (FCH), ribs (RS), back leg (BL) and shanks (SH) of lambs were determined. The WSC and RTC yield were determined as percentage of cold carcass weight. Performance data were analyzed as a randomized experimental (CRD) design over time. Carcass and cut yields data were analyzed as a CRD. LS-means were using for mean separation. Days on feed to reach SBW was less (P < 0.05) in EDSC (107 d) and EDPC (102 d) than CDPC (123 d). The ADG was greater (P < 0.05) in EDSC (215.0 g) and EDPC (189.0 g) than CDPC (167.6 g), but FC was similar (EDSC = 5.2, EDPC = 5.8, CDPC = 6.0). HCY and CCY were similar for EDSC (44.2% and 41.7%), EDPC (45.5% and 43.2%) and CDPC (46.1% and 43.2%). For WSC, N yield was greater (P < 0.05) in EDSC (4.3%) than EDPC (3.8%) and CDPC (3.5%), but RIBS was less (18.9% vs 20.9% and 20.9%, respectively). Yields of SL, LN, and LG were similar for EDSC (31.9%, 12.5% and 33.5%), EDPC (30.7%, 12.2% and 33.9%) and CDPC (31.1%, 13.0% and 33.9%). For RTC, the yield of SCH was greater (P < 0.05) in CDPC (26.6%) than EDPC (24.4%), but similar to EDSC (25.9%). FCH was less (P < 0.05) in EDSP (11.8%) than EDPC (14.4%) and CDPC (15.2%). No differences in RS (EDSC 6.5%, EDPC 6.3%, CDPC 5.5%), BL (EDSC 28.9%, EDPC 29.2%, CDPC 29.0%), and SH (EDSC 7.0%, EDPC 7.3%, CDPC 7.4%) were detected. In summary, castration decreases performance of genetically improved lambs as evidenced by longer DOF to reach SBW and lower ADG than intact animals, but did not influence carcass yield. Differences in WSC and RTC yield were observed among genetic groups and animal type.