bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
231 Podcasting as an Extension Tool: Limitations and Opportunities
Authors: Corbitt Katie , Bennett Samantha , Martin David , Sawyer Jason T , Rodning Soren P , Mulvaney Donald
Published: November 2023

Extension challenges today include prompts for increased consideration for online platforms for educational content programming to best reach young producers about the latest discoveries in terms of production agriculture. Because of these challenges, research was conducted to evaluate the use of podcasts as an Extension tool. For the purposes of this research, a mixed methods approach was utilized to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Two separate surveys were written for the purposes of this study, and both were housed on the survey platform Qualtrics (Version 2022, Provo, Utah, U.S.). Of the two surveys regarding perspectives towards podcasting as a Cooperative Extension System (CES) tool, one was written for data collection from CES personnel, and the other was written for the purposes of collecting data from CES stakeholders. Both surveys were reviewed for validity by expert panels consisting of graduate students, university faculty, and CES personnel. Before survey recruitment, survey materials were provided to the Auburn University Institutional Review Board, and study #21-438 was considered exempt. Participant recruitment took place through email and data analyses used SPSS to conduct descriptive statistics and frequencies. Results included perspectives of personnel towards podcasts, the status of use for their work, and viewpoints of stakeholders and current use of already available Extension podcasts. A total of 50% of extension personnel responded that they had not thought of using a podcast to disseminate information and 22% said their priorities lie elsewhere. While the potential for podcast modalities is great, results indicated diverse views, varied levels of podcast understanding, plans for adoption, and perceived barriers for use of podcasts in Extension.
233 Fermentation Characteristics of Brassica and Wheat Mixed Silages
Authors: Harrelson Flint W , Harrelson Patricia L , Roush Caroline R , Skidmore Amanda R , Collick Amy S
Published: November 2023

Winter feed management in the temperate regions of the U.S. primarily consists of stored or stockpiled grasses. Recently, forage brassica species have become popular additions to fall and winter grazing programs as an alternative feed source. Most all brassicas incorporated into forage systems are grazed; however, there may be more feeding options, such as fermenting them as silage or baleage. The objective of this project was to determine, utilizing a laboratory scale process, the feasibility and quality characteristics of two different brassica species alone or mixed with winter wheat. Forages were planted in 25.4 cm pots at a seeding rate comparable with field application. Three separate forage varieties were used: a hybrid forage rapeseed (RAPE), a forage turnip (TURNIP) and winter wheat (WHEAT). Along with these 3 varieties, two mixed forage treatments were utilized; a 3-way mix spaced and covered mimicking the effect of being planted with a drill (DRILL) and a 3-way mix randomly sprinkled and left uncovered mimicking a more random application (BROADCAST). Each of these 5 treatments were replicated 5 times and grown in the greenhouse for 76 d. At the conclusion of this growing period, forages were harvested 3 cm above the soil and immediately placed into vacuum-sealed bags. Bags were placed in a dark room and incubated for a total of 83 d. Following incubation, samples were analyzed for fermentation characteristics to determine quality of the ensiling process. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedures of SAS. There was a treatment effect (P < 0.01) on the DM of the ensiled product whereby WHEAT (31.8%) was the greatest and BROADCAST (7.1%) was the least. The BROADCAST treatment had significantly (P < 0.01) greater ammonia concentration, as well as acetic acid (P < 0.05) concentration compared with all other treatments. No differences (P = 0.26) in pH were observed within the ensiled treatments. Overall, results of this trial suggest that it might be possible to use these brassica species as an ensiled feedstuff, though further testing is necessary to elucidate possible complications or limitations.
243 Translating Maternal Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation Effect on Early Developing Fetus Through Hepatic Long Non-Coding Rnas Profile in Beef Heifers
Authors: Anas Muhammad , Ward Alison , McCarthy Kacie L , Menezes Ana Clara Baiao , Borowicz Pawel P , Reynolds Larry P , Caton Joel S , Dahlen Carl R , Da Silva Diniz Wellison Jarles j
Published: November 2023

Maternal nutrition is critical during pregnancy as the fetus relies on the nutrients from the dam. Fetal organogenesis starts during the first trimester. Thus, an appropriate supply of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, is indispensable. In the field of fetal developmental programming, there is still a lack of knowledge based on appropriate livestock models to explain the role of regulatory factors in translating the effect of maternal minerals and vitamins on fetal development and metabolic function. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effect of maternal vitamin and mineral supplementation (VTM -d 71 periconceptual to d 83 of pregnancy) on fetal liver expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their potential regulatory metabolic pathways. Angus crossbreed beef heifers (n = 16) were supplemented (VTM, n = 8) or not (NoVTM, n = 8) with 113 g· heifer-1· day-1 of mineral premix (Purina Wind & Rain Storm All-Season 7.5 Complete) and all heifers were bred with female sexed semen from a single sire. Transcriptomic profiles were determined with RNA-Seq in fetal livers collected on d 83 ± 0.27 of gestation. After data quality control and read mapping, lncRNAs were predicted using the FEELnc pipeline. Using the DESeq2 software, we identified 50 differentially expressed novel lncRNAs (expression of 32 lncRNAs was upregulated and 18 were downregulated; FDR < 0.05) located either downstream, upstream, or in exonic, or intronic regions of 51 genes (including PFKP, SLC30A10, KCNH8, ZNF451, MINPP1, BCL9, PAH, ITPR2, AHCY, and ABCG8), potentially regulating their expression. These genes could affect pathways (FDR < 0.1) such as PI3K signaling, mineral storage and transport, and amino acids biosynthetic pathways (i.e., cysteine and methionine biosynthesis). Collectively, these results suggest that periconceptual maternal vitamin and mineral supplementation affects the expression of lncRNAs and potentially regulates the expression of genes involved in fetal liver development and function.
238 Leucine Supplementation Enhances Protein Synthesis in Lean Tissue Through a Sestrin2-GATOR2 and Raga-mTORC1 Signaling Pathway in a Preterm Piglet Model
Authors: Posey Erin A , Suryawan Agus , Nguyen Hanh , Sciarrillo Christina , Stoll Barbara , Vonderohe Caitlin , Burrin Doug , Fiorotto Marta , Davis Teresa A
Published: November 2023

Extrauterine growth restriction is common in preterm infants and is associated with reduced lean growth and long-term morbidities. We previously showed that leucine (Leu) acts as a nutrient signal to stimulate protein synthesis, and that in neonatal pigs born at term intermittent parenteral Leu pulses during continuous feeding increases skeletal muscle mTORC1 signaling and protein synthesis. The objective of this study was to determine the validity of the hypothesis that leu pulsing during continuous feeding enhances mTORC1 signaling via a Sestrin-mediated pathway to increase protein synthesis in lean tissue in the preterm piglet. Pigs delivered by cesarean section at 105 d gestation were continuously fed a protein and energy balanced milk-replacer diet [195 kcal ME and 13.5 g protein (kg body weight; BW)-1·d-1)]. Pigs (n = 11-12) were randomly assigned to Leu (LEU) or Alanine (ALA, isonitrogenous control) groups and treatments were administered as a pulse (1.6 mmol·kg BW-1·h-1) for 1 h every 4 h for 21 d. Indices of amino acid signaling and mTORC1 activation were determined postprandially, 60 min after initiation of the last pulse on day 24. Final body weight was greater (P < 0.05) and longissimus muscle weight was heavier in LEU than ALA pigs (P = 0.01). Upstream of mTORC1 activation, the abundance of the Sestrin2-GATOR2 complex was less and the RagA-mTORC1 complex was greater in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle of LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). Downstream of mTORC1, the phosphorylation of S6K1 and 4EBP1 and abundance of the eIF4E-eIF4G complex were greater in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle of LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). Fractional rates of protein synthesis in longissimus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle were greater in LEU compared with ALA pigs (P < 0.05). These results show that leucine supplementation enhances mTORC1-activated translation initiation in skeletal muscle of the preterm piglet via a Leu-sensing pathway mediated bySestrin2 and the Rag proteins. This leucine-mediated cascade promotes skeletal muscle and body weight gain by increasing muscle protein synthesis.
87 Mitochondria: Life, Death, and the In-Between
Authors: Scheffler Tracy L
Published: November 2023

Skeletal muscles exhibit considerable variation in their metabolic and contractile properties, which allows them to accomplish diverse functions in the living animal. Mitochondria content and function are key features driving oxidative capacity, and hence, the energy producing capacity of muscle fibers. In turn, these intrinsic muscle properties also influence postmortem muscle metabolism and the events that occur as living muscle becomes meat. This period is critical to the development of meat quality attributes. Yet, there is much that remains poorly understood regarding the conversion of muscle to meat. Considering that oxygen supply is removed at harvest, early efforts to understand postmortem metabolism primarily focused on glycolytic capacity. More recently, efforts have been redirected to mitochondria; not only are they critical for energy production, but mitochondria also influence calcium dynamics, apoptosis signaling, and reactive oxygen species production. These functions have been implicated in the development of meat quality attributes, including color variation, protein degradation, and tenderness. Defining the mitochondrial contributions to postmortem metabolism and meat quality is complex due to the heterogeneous nature of muscle fibers and the changes in cellular conditions (e.g., temperature, pH) that occur postmortem. Nonetheless, evidence supports that mitochondria retain at least some capacity for energy production early postmortem, indicating they are structurally intact and functional. Both inherent muscle characteristics as well as factors related to slaughter and processing appear to impact the subsequent decline in functional and structural integrity of mitochondria. Unraveling the structural and functional changes that occur in mitochondria postmortem will advance our understanding of early postmortem metabolism and meat quality development.
276 Effects of Monoglycerides on Serum Metabolomic Profiles in Weanling Pigs Experimentally Infected with a Pathogenic Escherichia Coli
Authors: Park Sangwoo , Kim Kwangwook , Sokale Adebayo O O , Barri Adriana , Liu Yanhong
Published: November 2023

Our previous research suggests that supplementation of monoglycerides may reduce diarrhea severity and intestinal and systemic inflammation in weaned pigs infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli) F18. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of monoglycerides on serum metabolomic profiles of weaned pigs experimentally infected with E. coli F18. Sixty weaned pigs [body weight (BW) = 6.49 ± 0.74 kg; around 21 d old] were individually housed and fed with one of four diets (15 replicates/diet): 1) control diet (CON); 2) CON+0.3% monoglycerides; 3) CON+3,000 mg/kg ZnO and 4) CON+50 mg/kg antibiotics (carbadox). The experiment lasted 28 days with 7 days before and 21 days after the first inoculation [d 0 post-inoculation (PI)]. All piglets were orally challenged with F18 E. coli (1010 CFU/3 mL) for 3 consecutive days. Serum samples were collected on d 5 and 14 PI to analyze untargeted metabolomics by gas chromatography-time of flight-mass spectrometer (GC-TOF-MS). The metabolomics data were analyzed using different modules of a web-based platform, MetaboAnalyst 5.0. Statistical significance was declared at a false discovery rate q < 0.2 and fold change > 2.0. Pathway and metabolite set enrichment analysis were performed on identified metabolites that had a Variable Importance in Projection (VIP) score > 1. On d 5 PI, supplementation of high dose ZnO up-regulated (q < 0.2) pantothenic acid and fructose, compared with control. Supplementation of monoglycerides altered (q < 0.2) the relative abundances of 14 metabolites (7 up-regulated and 7 down-regulated) compared with high dose ZnO, and upregulated (q < 0.2) lactose and cellobiose compared with antibiotics. On d 14 PI, supplementation of high dose ZnO changed (q < 0.2) abundances of 10 metabolites (7 up-regulated and 3 down-regulated) compared with control. Supplementation of monoglycerides up-regulated (q < 0.2) hippuric acid and indole-3-propionic acid, and down-regulated (q < 0.2) 8 metabolites (including glutaric acid, serotonin, mannose, etc.) compared with the high dose ZnO. Citrate cycle, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, and beta-alanine metabolism were the most (VIP > 1) affected pathways when monoglycerides were compared with high dose ZnO on d 5 PI. TCA cycle, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, and pyrimidine metabolism were the most (VIP > 1) affected metabolic pathways when monoglycerides were compared with high dose ZnO on d 14 PI. Limited differential metabolites were identified when comparing control vs. monoglycerides on d 5 and 14 PI. In conclusion, consistent with performance, diarrhea, and systemic inflammation data, serum metabolomics results indicate that high dose of ZnO supplementation had stronger impacts on the host metabolism of E. coli infected pigs, compared with monoglycerides and antibiotics.
446 The Effects of Maternal Diet During Gestation on Oxidative Status of Offspring
Authors: Reiter Amanda S , Kawaida Mia Y , Tillquist Nicole M , Smith Brandon , Govoni Kristen E , Zinn Steven A , Reed Sarah A
Published: November 2023

Poor maternal nutrition during gestation is common in livestock production and includes both nutrient restriction and over-nutrition. Poor maternal nutrition affects offspring pre- and post-natal growth including decreases in muscularity and increases in adiposity which results in poor quantity and quality of animal products. Oxidative stress, when free radicals exceed the capacity of antioxidants, damages lipid membranes, proteins, and DNA. Oxidative stress may contribute to the poor growth outcomes observed in offspring from poorly nourished dams. Therefore, the objective of this research was to determine the effects of poor maternal nutrition during gestation on offspring circulating oxidative status in sheep. We hypothesized that offspring of restricted- and over-fed ewes would have an altered oxidative status in circulation. To test this hypothesis, multiparous Dorset ewes (n = 45) pregnant with twins were fed 100% (CON), 60% (RES), or 140% (OVER) of National Research Council requirements from d 30 of gestation until parturition. At parturition, ewes were fed a control diet such that the nutritional insult only occurred during gestation. Blood samples were collected from offspring by jugular venipuncture at d 112 and d 224 of age to evaluate oxidative status in circulation. Data were analyzed in SAS 9.4 using PROC MIXED with fixed effects of offspring sex and maternal diet with sampling timepoint as repeated measure. Data were considered significant at P < 0.05. In offspring plasma, superoxide dismutase, an endogenous antioxidant, activity was 17% greater in CON offspring compared with RES and OVER (P ≤ 0.04). Malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation, concentration was not different at d 112 but RES animals had 10% lesser concentration of MDA than CON at d 224 (P ≤ 0.02). Protein carbonyl (PC), a marker of protein oxidation, concentration was 9% greater in CON animals than RES and OVER (P = 0.01). Additionally, PC concentrations were 19% greater at d 224 compared with d 112 (P ≤ 0.001). These results indicate that at the chosen timepoints, RES and OVER offspring had less antioxidant activity but also less indication of oxidative damage. Overall, the alterations in antioxidant activity and oxidative damage suggest dysregulation in circulating oxidative status that may contribute to the negative consequences of poor maternal nutrition during gestation. Future work should focus on the impacts of poor maternal nutrition on oxidative stress in muscle.
295 Effects of a Supraphysiological Oxytocin Injection After Parturition on Blood-Milk-Barrier Closure and Igg Transfer into Milk in Dairy Cows
Authors: Kessler Evelyne C , Bruckmaier Rupert M , Gross Josef J
Published: November 2023

Oxytocin (OT) can affect the blood-milk-barrier integrity by modulating the closure of tight junctions. Earlier research demonstrated a transfer of circulating immunoglobulins (Ig) into milk upon OT application during an LPS-induced mastitis. The role of OT in colostrogenesis, i.e., IgG transfer into colostrum, is not fully understood. Our study aimed at retarding the postpartum closure of the blood-milk-barrier and concomitantly prolonging the transfer of IgG into colostrum of dairy cows by a supraphysiological OT injection. Multiparous Holstein cows (n = 28) were enrolled. Blood and milk samples were collected at the first 2 milkings after parturition and milk yields were recorded. Ten cows received 50 IU OT i.v. at 30 min after the first milking (OT+30), 9 cows were injected 50 IU OT i.v. at 120 min before the second milking (OT-120), and 9 cows remained untreated (CTRL). Cows were milked at 6.7 ± 0.7 h after parturition (first milking) and 11.5 ± 0.3 h later (second milking). Milk was analyzed for fat, protein, lactose and IgG, serum albumin (SA), and electrolytes (Na, K, Cl) concentrations and for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. Concentration of α-lactalbumin (α-LA) was measured in blood plasma. Data were evaluated using a mixed model (SAS) with group, milking number, and group x milking number as fixed effects, and cow as random subject. In all groups, concentrations of protein, IgG, SA, LDH in milk decreased from first to second milking, while lactose content in milk increased (P < 0.05). Milk yield and milk fat content did not differ between first and second milking (P > 0.05). Concentration of α-LA in plasma tended to decrease from first to second milking. Treatments did not affect changes in blood and milk from first to second milking. In conclusion, a single injection of supraphysiological OT either at 30 min after the first milking postpartum or 2 h before the second milking postpartum did not retard the closure of the blood-milk-barrier in dairy cows. Furthermore, OT application did not prolong the active transport of IgG into milk after the first milking.
319 Single Timed-Ai Heifer Development and Delayed Feedlot Entry of Non-Pregnant Heifers
Authors: Landblom Douglas G , Senturklu Songul , Hanna Lauren L , Parman Bryon , Perry George A , Paisley Steve
Published: November 2023

To ranch managers, reproduction is the single most important element of profitability, because heifers that calve early with their first calf produce more pounds of beef product and have greater longevity and productivity. Artificial insemination affords ranchers access to elite sires known for above average production potential and replacement heifers bred to elite sires replace themselves with offspring having genomic enhanced genetic potential. This long-term multi-year project is designed to compare control heifers reared in drylot (DLOT) to heifers managed grazing either native range (NR) or a combination of native range and annual forages (field pea-barley, corn, cover crop) grown in a diverse cropping system (ANN), which are bred using a common single Timed-AI protocol (14 d CIDR-PG) and all non-pregnant heifers are finished for grid marketing. As such, following synchronization cleanup bulls are placed with the DLOT control heifers; however, there are no cleanup bulls placed with the grazing treatments. The project objectives were to evaluate reproductive and economic efficiencies among the three systems. Grazing heifer gains during the 121 d grazing period for the DLOT, ANN and NR were 33.7, 119.5, and 126.5 kg, respectively (P = 0.001). Synchronized timed-AI pregnancy rates were 59.4, 43.8, and 62.5% (P = 0.27) for the DLOT, ANN and NR treatments, respectively. Total pregnancy rate was 90.6, 43.8, and 62.5% (P = 0.002) for the DLOT, ANN and NR treatments, respectively. Grazing heifer feedlot performance (ANN vs. NR) did not differ for start weight (452 vs 456 kg, P = 0.29), end weight (610.0 vs 600.0 kg, P = 0.74), gain (157 vs 164 kg, P = 0.69), ADG (1.42 vs 1.48 kg, P = 0.70), daily DM feed intake (15.0 vs 14.7 kg, P = 0.73), G:F (0.04298 vs 0.04554 kg, P = 0.42), daily feed cost ($4.38 vs $4.30, P = 0.73), feed cost/kg gain ($3.11 vs $2.95, P = 0.51), and feed and yardage cost/kg gain ($3.42 vs $3.24, P = 0.55). Grazing heifer carcass measurements did not differ for, HCW (369 vs 365 kg, P = 0.83), Dressing Percent (60.7 vs 61.0, P = 0.69), marbling score (524 vs 531, P = 0.78), and percent Choice (100% vs 100%). Gross pregnant heifer and gross carcass return for DLOT, ANN and NR was $1,325, $1,702, and $1,601, respectively. These data indicate that grazing systems combining bred heifer value and grid-based carcass value are competitive.
350 Effects of Adding Yeast Derivatives to High Concentrate Diets on Performance and Feeding Behavior of Beef Cattle Finished in Feedlot
Authors: Pacheco Rodrigo , Bonato Melina A , Reis William
Published: November 2023

Yeast derivatives enhance beef cattle performance (Torres et al., 2022), allowing farmers to increase feedlot financial income. However, yeast derivatives vary on yeast species, grown medium, purity, technological processing, yeast cell parts marketed.Thus, in these experiments, we aimed to understand the potential of different yeast derivatives to manipulate performance, feed intake, and feeding behavior. In experiment 1, 1,760 non-castrated males were used to study performance and feed intake. These animals were distributed in large pens, mimicking actual feedlot operations. In xperiment 2, 96 animals with radio frequency identification ear tags were allocated in small groups with induvial access to automatic feeders equipped with scales to study daily individual feeding behavior. Animals were allocated to four treatments: 1) Control, no yeast derivative; 2) AY - 7g/animal/day, autolyzed Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on sugarcane molasses, RumenYeast (ICC, São Paulo, Brazil); 3) YM - 3g/animal day, yeast rich in soluble yeast metabolites; 4) YB - 5g/animal/day, yeast blend (live Yeast plus autolyzed Yeast. Orthogonal contrasts were performed comparing control against AY, YM, and YB. Differences were declared significant at P < 0.05 and as a trend when 0.05 < P < 0.10. Pen was considered as the experimental unit for experiment 1. For experiment 2, animals were considered the experimental unit. Regarding experiment 1, AY tended to increase adjusted average daily gain and hot carcass weight (Table 1). Dry matter intake did not differ between treatments in experiment 1 (large pen trial). Looking at individual intake data, experiment 2, feeding behavior and water intake changed when yeast derivatives were included in the diet. In general, animals supplemented with AY spent less time eating, which was more evident in the adaptation period (Table 1). AY and YB had stimulated feed intake in some periods of experiment 2. However, the evident less time spent eating by the AY group promoted a greater feeding rate (kg ingested/min) markedly compared with YM and YB, but in general, also greater than control. Considering the initial period of feedlot operations, this greater feeding rate could favor animals supplemented with AY to adapt faster to feedlot diet/feeding conditions. All yeast derivatives increased water intake. In summary, autolyzed Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on sugarcane molasses increased beef cattle performance and feeding rate. This change in feeding behavior may accelerate the adaptation of beef cattle in the transition from the backgrounding phase to the feedlot operation.
338 A Survey of Mycotoxin Occurrence in Us Corn and Corn By-Product Feed Ingredients from 2018 to 2022 Harvest Years
Authors: Schwandt Erin F , Gott Paige N , Zheng Lan , Levy April W
Published: November 2023

The aim of this survey was to compare the occurrence and contamination levels of six major mycotoxin categories found in corn and corn by-product feed ingredients harvested in the United States from 2018 through 2022. Mycotoxins are secondary fungal metabolites that can negatively impact animal health and performance and have been routinely found in a variety of feedstuffs including, but not limited to, cereal grains, by-products, silages, dry hays and pasture grasses. Mycotoxin categories evaluated in this survey included: aflatoxins (AFLA), type A trichothecenes (A-Trich), type B trichothecenes (B-Trich), fumonisins (FUM), zearalenone (ZEN), and ochratoxin A (OTA). This study includes data from corn samples labeled as 2022 harvest and corn b-product feed ingredients submitted from October 2022 through March 2023 and were analyzed for 17 different metabolites via the Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. Samples that tested above the limit of detection for each mycotoxin group were analyzed using the generalized linear mixed model procedure of SAS (SAS 9.4, Cary, NC) using harvest year as a fixed effect. The effect of harvest year on average contamination level for each mycotoxin is presented in Table 1. For 2022 harvest year, 260 corn samples and 66 corn by-product samples have been evaluated to date. Mean B-Trich, ZEN, FUM and AFLA levels (parts per billion, ppb) for corn grain samples were similar in 2022 as previous years (P > 0.05). However, for corn grain samples, FUM prevalence and concentration were numerically greater in 2022 than in 2021 and 2020. In the 66 samples of corn by-products, FUM was found in all the samples (100%) and B-Trich were found in the majority of the samples (97%). Mean concentration of FUM in 2022 corn by-product samples was greater (P < 0.001) compared with 2021. Preliminary results of this survey suggest mycotoxin occurrence and contamination remains similar to previous harvest years except for greater mean FUM concentration levels in corn and corn by-products feed ingredients.
326 Effect of Curing Extent on Ruminal in Vitro Gas Production Kinetics of Red Clover Hay and Silage Across Storage Phases
Authors: Ayala Diego Zamudio , De Castro Raphaella Alexandra , Jimenez Ana Paula , Cardoso Marcus , Poblete Joe B , Killerby Marjorie A , Romero Juan Jose J
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the effects of insufficient (WET) or ample (CUR) curing on red clover silage (29.4 and 45.3% DM, respectively) and hay (65.1 and 89.1% DM, respectively) in vitro fermentation measures. Measurements were taken at the start of storage (STRT), after 14 d (MicA), and once storage processes had stabilized for hay and silage (50 and 78 d, respectively; LATE). The red clover field was divided into 5 blocks and each block was divided into 2 plots and then assigned randomly to silage and hay (storage methods). Hay was packed into mini-bales (~500 fresh g; ~232 kg DM/m3) and silage into mini-silos (19.5 L; ~214 kg DM/m3). Samples at each storage stage were analyzed for in vitro gas production (48 h). Gas kinetics were recorded using the Ankom RF Gas Production System. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design (5 blocks) with a 2 (curing extents) x 2 (storage methods) x 3 (storage phases) factorial. Differences were declared at P ≤ 0.05. The data was analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4. At STRT, the Asymptotic maximal gas production (M) and fermentation rate (k) were not different between CUR and WET hay (x̅ = 240.5 ± 7.33 mL/g incubated DM and x̅ = 13.2 ± 0.56% of gas production/h, respectively). However, at MicA, CUR hay had a greater M and k than WET hay (232.7 vs. 192.6 and 13.9 vs. 9.33, respectively). The same was observed at LATE (237.6 vs. 197.6 and 13 vs. 8.36, respectively). At STRT, the CUR and WET silage was not different for M and k (x̅ = 233.4 ± 7.33 mL/g incubated DM and x̅ = 14.06 ± 0.56% of gas production/h, respectively). A similar trend was observed at MicA (x̅ = 220 and 13.6, respectively) and LATE (x̅ = 219.7 and 14.7). In conclusion, ample curing of red clover hay preserves the fermentation kinetics relative to insufficient curing, especially after 14 d of storage. In the case of red clover silage, the fermentation kinetics was not affected by the curing extent across the storage period.
368 Effects of Supplemental Methionine Or Choline on Health and Performance of High-Risk Receiving Beef Heifers
Authors: Grant Madeline S , Blasi Dale A , Titgemeyer Evan C
Published: November 2023

Methionine and choline are methyl group sources, and their supplementation improves health and immune function in transition dairy cattle. Our objective was to determine if supplemental methionine or choline could improve health and growth performance of newly received growing cattle. In a 3-year experiment, 1,440 crossbred beef heifers (480 per year; 223 ± 4.4 kg initial body weight; Tennessee origin) were received in 15 truckloads (blocks; 5 per year) in October 2020, 2021, and 2022. Individual body weights were measured at arrival. The following day (day 0) cattle were vaccinated for viral and clostridial diseases, received tulathromycin (2.5 mg/kg body weight; Draxxin, Zoetis Inc., Parsippany, NJ), and were stratified within block by arrival body weight to 1 of 8 pens containing 12 animals each. Cattle (40 pens per year; 120 pens total) were limit-fed at 2.2% of body weight daily (dry matter basis) a ration containing 39.5% dry-rolled corn, 40% Sweet Bran (Cargill Corn Milling, Blair, NE), 13% chopped prairie hay, and 7.5% supplement for 60 days; monensin was included at 25 mg/kg diet dry matter. Pens were assigned to 1 of 5 treatments: Control (nothing), 5 g/d methionine (8.33 g/day Smartamine M; Adisseo USA Inc., Alpharetta, GA), 15 g/day methionine (25 g/day Smartamine M), 1.17 g/day choline (26 g/day ReaShure; Balchem Corp., Montvale, NJ), or 3.5 g/day choline (78 g/day ReaShure); treatments were top-dressed at feeding daily. In each year, there were 8 pens per treatment, for a total of 24 pens per treatment across 3 years. Cattle were revaccinated and weighed on day 14, and pen weights were measured weekly thereafter to adjust feed offered the following week. Heifers were observed twice daily for clinical signs of respiratory illness and treated as follows: first morbidity, florfenicol; second morbidity, enrofloxacin; third morbidity, oxytetracycline. Upon third treatment, heifers were declared chronic and removed from the experiment. Performance data from chronic and dead heifers were removed before analysis. Dry matter intake was not affected by treatment (P = 0.48). There were some minor differences among treatments for final body weight, average daily gain, and gain:feed, but none of the treatments were significantly different from Control for these responses. Overall prevalence of respiratory morbidity and mortality were 29% and 0.69%, respectively. No treatment effects were detected for first, second, or third respiratory morbidity or mortality (P ≥ 0.30). Overall, supplemental methionine and choline did not affect growth performance or health of high-risk, newly received heifers.
12 Tools for Climate-Smart Decision Making for the Stocker/Feedlot Sector
Authors: Duff Glenn C , Birkenstock Bianca , Smithyman Mackenzie M
Published: November 2023

There is an increased interest in the use of climate-smart practices and technologies to be more effective in climate change mitigation. These practices include grazing management, pasture management, animal and herd management, animal disease and health, animal breeding, and supplemental feeding during the stocker phase. In the feedlot sector, climate-smart practices range from supply chain challenges including climate smart adaptation by crop producers, cattle type, manure management, health management, and use of growth promoting technologies. There are certainly other technologies not mentioned and are not meant to be marginalized. During the stocker phase, grazing management is highly variable and dependent on climatic conditions and variability, plant species and plant health, water management, soil health, and cattle type. A correct balance among the different land managers, government agencies, and recommendations from university researchers and Extension personnel should optimize these practices. For instance, there is a focus on rotational grazing to increase the efficiency of grazing management. However, in the southwestern U.S. this practice may not be practical given the vast area and landscape used in production. In certain geographical areas, pasture management is becoming increasingly important as decreasing water sources (particularly aquafer levels) are apparent. Some data suggests that now is the time to change from cereal crop production to perennial forages while water is still available to establish the forages. This, in turn, may improve soil health and carbon sequestration. However, as with all mitigation strategies, this may decrease supply of cereal grains available to small feedlot producers, albeit a significant amount of cereals are transported to the cattle feeding sector. Animal breeding programs to improved production, heat tolerance, disease resistance, and improved reproduction is important. As with any production practice, supplementation programs may become necessary under certain situations. It is well known that cattle treated for respiratory disease have poorer performance and carcass characteristics than cattle not treated. Use of growth promoting technologies improve animal performance and decreases total methane produced. No doubt manure production from feeding operations produce methane. Dairy and swine operations can harvest the methane and with use of biogas collectors flare off the methane or produce energy for electric generators, however, this is not practical under feedlot situations; however, application of manure to land may improve soil organic matter. Building resilience in evaluating climate-smart practices will satisfy multiple objectives including impacting food security without many constraints to adoption.
PSVII-6 Effect of Summer Months on Testicular Histoarchitecture and Spermatogenesis in Dezhou Donkey: a Histological Study
Authors: Muhammad Akhtar Muhammad Faheem
Published: November 2023

This study aims to illustrate testicular histoarchitecture and progression of spermatogenesis in Dezhou donkeys during summer months. For experiment, 8 male Dezhou donkeys having body weight 260 + 20 kg and aged 2 years were analyzed using microscopy and Jonhson’s score. Based on acrosomal system, Dezhou donkey spermatogenesis comprised of XII stages. Various types of spermatogonia: A1, A2, A3, B1 and B2 were observed along with undifferentiated spermatogonia (Aund; Figure 1, 2, 3 and 4). Testicular histoarchitecture during spermatogenesis, seminiferous tubules diameter (ST), ST height (µm), Luminal tubulaR diameter (µm), Number of ST/field, Number of germ cells along with normal Jonhson’s score illustrated that stages of spermatogenesis and testicular histoarchitecture of adult Dezhou donkeys are not affected during summer months (Table 1).
PSI-1 Assessing the Impact of Hempseed Meal Supplementation on Inflammatory Cytokine Concentrations in Boer X Spanish Intact Male Goats
Authors: Ale Khim B , Abrahamsen Frank W , Gurung Reshma , Chaudharu Santosh , Gurung Nar K
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hempseed meal (HSM) supplementation on the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in intact male goats. Effect on the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL) 2 , IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) and anti-inflammatory cytokines,; IL-4 and IL10, were evaluated via chicken-ovalbumin challenge. Thirty-six Boer x Spanish intact male goats, 10 to 11 months of age and bodyweights of 44.1 ± 3.8 kg, were randomly assigned to one of the four experimental diets (n = 9 goats/diet): 0% (control), 10%, 20%, and 30% HSM diets and fed ad libitum for 60 days. Experimental diets were formulated as total mixed ration (TMR), and the nutrient content of each diet was formulated to be iso-nitrogenous (18% crude protein) and to meet or exceed the nutrient requirement of breeding male goats. On day 46, goats were injected subcutaneously with chicken ovalbumin (2.5 mg) prepared in saline solution and alhydrogel as an adjuvant. On 14 days of post-injection, serum samples were collected and analyzed for cytokines concentrations using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test using R version 4.2.1. Results show no significant difference (P > 0.05) among the experimental groups in terms of studied pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, and INF-γ) as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) concentrations (Table 1). Results indicate that the inclusion of HSM up to 30 % in the diet does not affect the production of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in intact male goats. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of HSM supplementation on inflammatory response in goats.
PSI-18 Vaginal Microbiome of Bos Indicus Cattle in Relation to Fertility
Authors: Smith Molly S , Soffa Dallas R , McAnally Brooke E , Hickman-Brown Kyle J , Stockland Erin , Poole Rebecca K
Published: November 2023

Shifts in commensal bacteria (e.g., Firmicutes) in the human vaginal microbiome are associated with compromised fertility. The objective of this study was to characterize the reproductive microbiome in the vagina of Bos indicus females prior to fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI). Bos indicus females on operations within a 20-mile radius (RANCH 1, RANCH 2, RANCH 3, RANCH 4) were subjected to the 7-day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol on day (d)-9 and FTAI on d0. Sterile vaginal swabs were collected on d-9 (CIDR IN), d-2 (CIDR OUT), and d0 (AI). Cattle were body condition scored (BCS) on d 0. Pregnancy status was determined by transrectal ultrasonography (Non-pregnant, n = 44 and Pregnant, n = 34). Bacterial community analyses were conducted targeting the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene. Data were analyzed using PROC GLM in SAS 9.4. Body condition scores did not differ by pregnancy status or ranch. Additionally, there was no difference in bacterial relative abundance between pregnant or non-pregnant (P > 0.10). The vaginal relative abundance of Firmicutes differed between CIDR IN, CIDR OUT, and AI days (63.54% vs. 28.11% vs. 60.66% ± 1.96%; P < 0.0001). Pregnancy rate did differ by ranch (RANCH 1 63.6% ± 14.7%, RANCH 2 60.0% ± 10.9%, RANCH 3 28.0% ± 9.7%, RANCH 4 36.4% ± 10.4%; P = 0.074). There was a difference observed between ranches with RANCH 4 having the greatest relative abundance of Firmicutes and RANCH 1 having the least (58.84% ± 2.12% vs. 45.12% ± 3.17%; P = 0.0001). A tendency for increased relative abundance of Firmicutes was noted in cows compared with heifers (53.03% ± 1.71% vs. 48.51% ± 1.89%; P = 0.099). Under the phylum of Firmicutes, the genera of Ruminococcus, Clostridium, Blautia, Butyrivibrio, and Mogibacterium followed a similar trend with a shift in relative abundance between CIDR IN, CIDR OUT, and AI days (Table 1). RANCH 1 had the lowest relative abundance of Ruminococcus and Clostridium and the greatest relative abundance of Blautia compared with other ranches (P < 0.05). A shift in relative abundance between CIDR IN, CIDR OUT, and AI days was observed for the phylum of Proteobacteria (7.84% vs. 26.44% vs. 9.69% ± 1.82%; P < 0.0001) and Bacteroidetes (12.19% ± vs. 15.62% vs. 12.67% ± 1.07%; P = 0.046). A tendency for differences in the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes between ranch were observed with RANCH 2 having the greatest relative abundance and RANCH 3 having the least (15.36% ± 1.29% vs. 11.73% ± 1.21%, respectively; P = 0.066). These results suggest a distinct difference in the vaginal microbiome before FTAI. In addition, microbial relative abundances within the vagina also differ between ranches of similar genetics and region.
PSI-16 Intestinal Porcine Enterocyte Cell (Ipec-J2) as an In-Vitro Model for Investigating the Mechanisms of Ferroptosis
Authors: Liu Ching-Hsuan , Lin Yuan-Yu
Published: November 2023

Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of regulated cell death that has been implicated in various intestinal diseases. However, there is limited research on ferroptosis in porcine models. The aim of this study was to establish an in vitro model of ferroptosis in the IPEC-J2 cell line. Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death that was first identified in 2012 and is characterized by unique morphological and physiological features that distinguish it from other types of cell death. This process is triggered by a complex interplay of multiple factors, including excess ferrous iron accumulation, oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and dysregulation of redox reactions. These events ultimately lead to the accumulation of lipid peroxides and subsequent membrane damage, resulting in ferroptosis. In pig production, weaning piglets often experience significant stress that can cause damage to the intestinal barrier due to changes in diet and environment, leading to diarrhea and growth retardation. Whether ferroptosis is involved in the development of intestinal diseases in pigs is still unclear, this study will establish a ferroptosis model using porcine intestinal epithelial cells. To induce ferroptosis in the IPEC-J2 cells, we applied hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), ferrous sulfate (FeSO4), and erastin, a ferroptosis inducer. The concentration of each treatment was determined by analyzing cell viability using the CCK-8 assay. Lipid peroxidation was evaluated using the TBARS assay, and the data indicated that compared with the control samples, IPEC-J2 cells treated with H2O2, FeSO4 and erastin had greater malondialdehyde levels (fold of control; CON = 1, H2O2 = 1.70, FeSO4 = 2.32, erastin = 1.68; P <0.05). Iron concentrations were measured using the Iron Assay kit (cat. no. ab83366; Abcam). Greater total iron concentrations were observed in IPEC-J2 cells treated with FeSO4 and erastin (fold of control; CON = 1, FeSO4 = 14.91, erastin = 1.10; P <0.05), and higher ferrous iron level on IPEC-J2 cells treated with erastin (fold of control; CON = 1, erastin = 1.17; P <0.05). In conclusion, the above results suggest that treatment with H2O2, FeSO4 and erastin is likely to lead to ferroptosis. However, further investigation is needed to confirm these findings. A ferroptosis model on intestinal porcine epithelial cells will be established in this study.
PSI-13 Effects of a Postbiotic Program Consisting of Liquid and Solid Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Fermentation Products on Ruminal Microbiome Composition and Microbial Functions of Finishing Beef Steers
Authors: Odunfa Oluwaseun , Dhungana Anjan , Golinski Alex , Sardi Maria I , Naqvi S Ali , Yoon Ilkyu , Bebe Fredrick , Khafipour Ehsan , Jiang Yun
Published: November 2023

We assessed the effects of a postbiotic program consisting of liquid and solid Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) on the ruminal microbiome and fermentation characteristics of beef steers. Eight Holstein steers (BW 467 ± 13.9 kg) with rumen cannulas were used in a crossover design study with 21-d per period and 7-d washout in between periods. Steers were blocked based on initial BW and assigned to one of two treatments: 1) Control, basal diet, or 2) SCFP, basal diet plus one day feeding of LiquiCare RTU (Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA; dosed via rumen cannula at 11 mL/100 kg BW), followed by daily feeding of 12 g/d NaturSafe (Diamond V, top-dressed). Rumen fluid samples were collected on d 0, 1, 2, 3, 5 and 21 at 0, 4, 8, or 12 h post morning feeding via rumen cannula for pH, VFA and NH3-N analyses. Samples collected at 4 h post morning feeding on d 0, 2 and 21 were subjected to DNA extraction and shotgun Nanopore sequencing to determine microbiome composition and carbohydrate active enzymes (CAZy) functional potential. Statistical model included the fixed effects of treatment, period, day and their interactions and random effect of animal. Feeding SCFP tended to reduce ruminal lactate (0.09 vs. 0.02 mM, P = 0.10), and reduced ruminal NH3-N (4.86 vs. 6.83 mg/dL, P = 0.04) on d 21. Ruminal total VFA concentration was increased (P = 0.01) by feeding SCFP 4-h post-feeding on d 5 and numerically increased 4-h post-feeding on day 21 (133.3 vs. 151.2 mM, P = 0.12). Treatments did not affect species or CAZy alpha- and beta-diversity. Steers received liquid postbiotic on d 2 exhibited a positive correlation (P < 0.05) between propionate molar proportion and glycosyl transferases (GT), glycoside hydrolases (GH), carbohydrate esterases, and carbohydrate binding modules (CBM); and a negative correlation (P < 0.05) between acetate molar proportion and polysaccharide lyases, GT, GH, and CBM, which was not observed in Control. Additionally, SCFP steers had higher (P = 0.05) CBM functional potential on d 21 than on d 0, while CAZy class abundances did not change over time in Control steers. Differential network analysis indicated a greater normalized degree for GT in the SCFP steers compared with Control on d 21. There were 2, 6 and 12 differently abundant species (P < 0.01) between SCFP and Control on d 0, 2 and 21, respectively, suggesting supplementing SCFP altered the abundances of more species over time. Our results showed that the postbiotic program altered the metabolic pathways of ruminal microbes toward greater propionate production, and improved abundance of carbohydrate binding modules. Our results also showed that glycosyl transferases had a greater promotive role in the ruminal enzymatic network of SCFP steers.