bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PSV-11 The Effect of Fermented Co-Products on Sensory Characteristics of Extruded Dog Kibble
Authors: Koulicoff Larissa A , Kilburn-Kappeler Logan , Koppel Kadri , Aldrich Charles G G
Published: November 2023

To promote sustainability, the pet food industry could use fermented co-products from ethanol and beer production as ingredients. However, these ingredients may impact the appearance, smell, and taste of the final product. The aim of this study was to analyze the sensory characteristics of extruded dog kibble produced with fermented co-products. Four diets were evaluated: 1) a control diet with no fermented co-products (CON), 2) a diet containing 3.5% brewers dried yeast (BDY), 3) a diet with 17.5% distillers dried grains plus solubles and 2.5% brewer's dried yeast (DDGS+BDY), and 4) a diet with 17.5% corn fermented protein (CFP). Five human trained panelists rated various characteristics of the product in terms of appearance, texture, aroma, and flavor from 0 to 15 (0 = none; 15 = extremely high). Results were analyzed using the sensory package in XLSTAT, and for significant attributes (P < 0.05), sample effects were assessed using Fisher LSD. For appearance, DDGS+BDY was browner than the other treatments (P < 0.05), and all treatments had similar porosity (P > 0.05). For texture, all treatments had similar ratings for particle amount, toothpacking, and oily mouthcoating (P > 0.05). The CFP was harder than DDGS+BDY (P < 0.05), and DDGS+BDY had decreased fracturability than CON and BDY (P < 0.05). The aroma characteristics including grain, cardboard, metallic, and overall intensity were similar for all treatments (P > 0.05). The BDY had less oxidized oil aroma than CON and CFP (P < 0.05). The CFP had less barnyard aroma than DDGS+BDY (P < 0.05),but was more brothy than DDGS+BDY (P < 0.05). The CON had a less intense vitamin aroma than BDY and DDGS+BDY (P < 0.05). In terms of flavor, barnyard, fish, brothy, salt, bitter, and metallic flavors were similar for all treatments (P < 0.05). Treatment CFP had stronger grain flavor than BDY (P < 0.05). Vitamin flavor was less intense for CON than DDGS+BDY and CFP (P < 0.05). Cardboard flavor was stronger for DDGS+BDY than BDY (P < 0.05), and oxidized oil flavor was less intense for DDGS+BDY than CON (P < 0.05). In addition to producing a nutritionally balanced product, the pet food industry must also accommodate the preferences of human consumers. For this reason, the final product must contain sensory characteristics that appeal to pet parents. Overall, the fermented ingredients evaluated did not seem to negatively impact the food sensory properties, resulting in desirable texture, aroma, and flavor profiles.
PSV-13 Characterization of the Relative Abundance of Duodenal Mrna Related to Genes Involved in Copper Absorption in Different Breeds of Sheep
Authors: Loh Huey Yi , Renn Olivia , Maquivar Martin G , Irlbeck Nancy , Engle Terry E
Published: November 2023

The objective of this experiment was to characterize relative expression of mRNA related to genes involved in Cu absorption in the duodenum of different breeds of sheep. Opportunistic liver and small intestine samples were collected from three harvested market weight Lincoln and Suffolk wether lambs (3 to 4 months of age) fed a low-quality forage based diet. A 5 cm sample of the duodenum (15 cm aboral from the pyloric sphincter) was collected from each lamb at the time of slaughter. Samples were immediately excised, sliced open, and washed with a PBS solution. The mucosal lining of the intestine was scraped with a scalpel blade to collect enterocytes. The scraped enterocytes were placed into a conical tube containing RNAlater. Furthermore, a one cm cubed sample from the center of the right lobe of the liver was collected from each lamb, washed with PBS solution, and stored in a conical tube until liver Cu concentrations could be determined. All intestinal and liver samples were stored at 4°C until transported back to the laboratory. Total enterocyte RNA was extracted and purified using TRI reagent and RNeasy. Primers for antioxidant 1 (ATOX1), Cu transporting alpha-polypeptide Atpase (ATP7A), Cu transporting beta-polypeptide Atpase (ATP7B), and Cu transporter1 (CTR1), were designed for real time PCR analysis. Liver Cu concentrations were decreased (P < 0.05) in Lincoln (225.3 ± 23.1 mg Cu/kg DM) compared with Suffolk lambs (342.1 ± 31.2 mg Cu/kg DM). The relative mRNA expression of ATOX1 (P < 0.05), ATP7B (P < 0.01), and CTR1 (P < 0.04) in duodenal enterocytes were decreased in Lincoln compared with Suffolk lambs. These data indicate that Cu absorption from the duodenum may be different in these breeds of sheep. Further research examining the impact of dietary Cu dose on genes involved in Cu absorption in different breeds of sheep as well as identification and quantification of proteins involved in Cu absorption, is warranted.
PSVI-9 In Vitro Effects of Monoglycerides and Zinc Glycinate: Anti-Inflammatory and Epithelial Barrier Function
Authors: Park Sangwoo , Kovanda Lauren L , Sokale Adebayo O O , Barri Adriana , Liu Yanhong
Published: November 2023

The objectives of this study were to investigate the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of monoglycerides and zinc glycinate with porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) and their impacts on epithelial barrier function using the IPEC-J2 cell line. MTT assays were performed for each compound to determine cell viability and appropriate treatment doses. PAMs were isolated from 6 piglets at 7 weeks of age, and then seeded into 24-well plates with 106 cells/mL. After 24 h incubation, cells were treated with each compound or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The experimental design was 2 × 6 factorial arrangement with 2 doses of LPS (0 or 1 μg/mL) and 6 doses of each compound (monoglycerides: 0, 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg/mL; zinc glycinate: 0, 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 µg/mL). The supernatants were collected after another 24 h incubation to analyze concentration of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) by ELISA. IPEC-J2 cells (5 × 105 cells/mL) were seeded into 12-well plates on transwell cell culture inserts and cultured until confluence, and then were treated with each compound (monoglycerides: 0, 25, 100, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg/mL; zinc glycinate: 0, 2, 5, 12.5, 25, and 50 µg/mL). Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured in Ωcm2 using a Millicell ERS-2 voltohmmeter at 0 h (before treatment) and at 24, 48, and 72 h post-treatment. Data were analyzed by ANOVA using PROC MIXED of SAS with a randomized complete block design. LPS challenge increased (P < 0.05) the production of TNF-α and IL-1β from PAMs. In the non-challenge group, supplementing 50 or 100 μg/mL of monoglycerides stimulated (P < 0.05) TNF-α and IL-1β production from PAMs. Treatment with 25 or 100 μg/mL of zinc glycinate also enhanced (P < 0.05) TNF-α production from PAMs. In LPS-treated PAMs, 1,000 μg/mL of monoglycerides increased (P < 0.05) IL-1β production, while zinc glycinate suppressed (P < 0.0001) the secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β at the doses of 100, 250, and 500 μg/mL. IPEC-J2 cells treated with 250 or 1,000 μg/mL of monoglycerides, or 5 μg/mL of zinc glycinate had increased (P < 0.0001) TEER values at 48 and 72 h post-treatment, compared with control. However, cells treated with 50 μg/mL of zinc glycinate reduced (P < 0.0001) TEER values at 24, 48, and 72 h post-treatment compared with other treatments. In conclusion, results of this in vitro study indicate that monoglycerides have a positive effect on the barrier function of epithelium, while zinc glycinate may have strong immune regulatory benefits. Future in vivo animal studies will be needed to verify their impacts on animal gut health, immune responses, and growth performance.
PSIV-4 Impact of Lipopolysaccharide Endotoxin on Growth and Viability of Ovarian Granulosa Cells
Authors: Arellanes Jeffrey Dominguez , Castro Briza , Shuster Charles , Gifford Craig A , Gifford Jennifer A Hernandez
Published: November 2023

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin from Gram-negative bacteria has been demonstrated to negatively impact reproductive parameters leading to ovarian dysfunction. Ovarian granulosa cells express the toll-like receptor 4 complex necessary to elicit inflammatory immune responses in the presence of LPS. Quantifiable amounts of LPS have been detected in follicular fluid from slaughterhouse-derived ovaries with further deleterious effects on granulosa cell steroidogenesis. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of LPS on granulosa cell proliferation in vitro. We hypothesized that increasing concentrations of LPS would negatively impact granulosa cell proliferation dynamics. A human granulosa cell line (KGN) was plated at 60% confluency in 96-well tissue culture plates and treated with phosphate buffered saline-vehicle or LPS (0.01, 0.1, 1, or 10 µg/mL) in the presence or absence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Cells were incubated for 48 h at 37 ºC and 5% CO2 in an IncuCyte incubator that utilizes real-time automated microscopy to continuously capture images of cells and measure cell confluency. Individual well images were collected every 6 h. The study was performed in 3 independent experiments with 8 replicates per treatment group in each experiment. Cells were allowed to equilibrate in the IncuCyte for 6 h before image collection. Cell confluency for each treatment group was normalized to vehicle-treated control confluency at 6 h. A significant difference was observed at the initial 6 h timepoint, with 1 and 10 µg/mL LPS treatment groups demonstrating decreased cell confluency compared with vehicle-treated controls (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in 0.01 (P = 0.65) and 0.1 (P = 0.53) µg/mL LPS treatment groups compared with vehicle-treated controls at 6 h timepoint. Interestingly, the deleterious effects of LPS on confluency and cell growth parameters were mitigated with the addition of FSH. No observable differences were detected in the two largest LPS doses concurrently incubated with FSH, 1 and 10 µg/mL LPS (P = 0.55 and P = 0.62, respectively), compared with vehicle-treated controls. From 12 h until the end of the incubation period, cell confluency in 1 and 10 µg/mL LPS treatment groups remained significantly different compared with FSH-treated cells (P < 0.05). Comparably, no differences were detected among FSH-stimulated groups, regardless of LPS dose or time (P = 0.99). Results indicate that greater LPS concentrations (1 and 10 µg/mL) negatively impacts cell confluency and proliferation in vitro; however, FSH has the ability to protect granulosa cells against the detrimental effects that LPS has on cell confluency. These data suggest that FSH is critical in regulating cell growth and proliferation despite the action of inflammatory pathways induced by bacterial endotoxin.
PSIV-5 High Desert Hemp Varieties Under Varied Nitrogen Fermentation Techniques Effects on Its Utilization as Livestock Feed Through in Vitro Fermentation
Authors: Field Alexa N , Silva Aghata , Franco Arturo Macias , Holton Graham , Brody Tio , Barrios Felipe Masias , Farnisa Mona , Fonseca Mozart A
Published: November 2023

Nitrogen fertilizing of hemp varietals in high the high desert may assist in ensuring that production levels match the demand for growing hemp varietals. However, altering fertilizer levels may differently affect plant biomass and cannabinoid concentrations of plant tissues which changes the potential by-product utilizable for livestock feed. This study aimed to determine the influence of hemp fractions [flower (FL) vs stem and leaves (SL)] under three nitrogen fertilization regimens (0, 100, and 200 kg· ha-1) on in vitro rumen fermentation. Incubations runs consisted of triplicates of 500-mL bottles containing approximately 0.5 g of either ground SL or FL of hemp at the three nitrogen fertilization regimens. Rumen fluid was collected from two ruminally cannulated Angus steers, filtered through four layers of cheesecloth, and diluted to 4:1 with a standard buffer solution. A total incubation volume of 75 mL of the buffer: rumen fluid mix was added to each flask. Flasks were then placed in a rotating incubator (55 rpm) at 39°C, connected to an Ankom RF gas production system (Ankom Technology, Macedon, NY), and removed after 24, 48, and 96h. Total gas production (TGP), metabolizable energy (ME), ammonia nitrogen concentration (N-NH3), and total volatile fatty acids (VFA) were determined. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design using lmer function in lme4 package in R with treatment and time as a fixed effect and replicates as a random effect. Statistical significance was established at P < 0.05 (Table 1). No differences were observed for N-NH3 (P > 0.05). Overall, SL samples had greater total VFA than FL, with T0SL having the greatest concentration among all treatments (P < 0.01). In congruence, acetate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, and the ratio between acetate and propionate concentrations were also greater for T0SL (P < 0.01). Concentrations of butyrate were greater for T200SL (P < 0.01), while T100SL had the greatest concentration of butyrate among all the treatments (P < 0.01). Overall, SL fractions of hemp seem to be more suitable as a ruminant feed source. The greater fat content of the FL compared with SL may detrimentally affect microbial populations and should further be explored. From our results, N supplementation significantly alters fermentation patterns during in vitro, which further warrants the evaluation of these feeds on in vivo experiments.
PSIX-18 A Meta-Analysis on Undigestible Neutral Detergent Fiber as a Predictor for Feedlot Cattle Performance and Carcass Characteristics
Authors: Williams Melissa S , Ellis Jen L , Penner Greg B , Wood Katharine M
Published: November 2023

Undigestible neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) is a non-nutritive component of the diet representing the portion of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) that is not digested. The uNDF amount affects ruminal fill, passage rate, diet digestibility, and cattle performance. Therefore, a meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential use of dietary uNDF to predict finishing feedlot cattle performance and carcass characteristics. A specific search string was used to obtain 22 eligible experiments forming a database in which models were developed. The search string used was as follows “(feedlot OR beef) AND (forage OR roughage OR iNDF OR uNDF) AND (dressing percentage OR dressing %) AND (liver abscess) AND (feed efficiency OR GF OR FG) AND (DMI) AND (ADG) AND (rumen pH OR ruminal pH OR reticulo-ruminal pH)”. Due to the lack of measurement and reporting of uNDF in the literature, the dietary uNDF of each treatment included in the meta-analysis was estimated using data from the Cumberland Valley Analytical Services database. A comparison of uNDF and NDF as predictor variables of performance was also assessed. Models were developed using a mixed model approach, where experiment was modelled as a random effect. Models with dry matter intake (DMI), implant or tylosin as driving variables alongside uNDF concentration or uNDF intake lowered the root mean square prediction error (RMSPE) and improved the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). The comparison of uNDF and NDF as predictors of outcomes demonstrated more accurate predictions with uNDF as the driving variable. Developed models from this meta-analysis can reasonably predict average daily gain, DMI, dressing percentage, final body weight, dressing percentage, feed efficiency, and hot carcass weight in healthy Bos taurus feedlot cattle. Results suggest there is still more to be discovered about uNDF and its impact in diets for finishing cattle and that uNDF may be a more informative metric than NDF alone. Further research to improve the characterization of forage in the diets of beef cattle is recommended.
PSIX-4 A Veterinary Gastrointestinal Diet Affects Fecal Characteristics, Metabolites, Bile Acids, and Microbiota Concentrations of Antibiotic-Treated Cats
Authors: Belchik Sara E , Oba Patricia Massae , Lin Ching-Yen , Suchodolski Jan S , Swanson Kelly S
Published: November 2023

Antibiotics are often used to treat animals with gastrointestinal diseases or infections, but their use is known to have negative effects on the intestinal microbiota community. Identifying dietary strategies that may aid in the recovery from antibiotic use is of interest. The objective of this study was to determine how a veterinary gastrointestinal diet affected the fecal characteristics and metabolite, bile acid (BA), and microbiota concentrations of cats recovering from metronidazole administration. Twenty-four healthy adult cats were used in an 8-wk completely randomized design study. The study began with a 2-wk baseline phase where all cats consumed a leading grocery brand dry diet (GBD; wk 0 to wk 2). Over the next 2 wk, cats continued to consume GBD and received metronidazole (20 mg/kg BW; wk 2 to wk 4). At wk 4, cats were randomly allotted to one of two treatments [GBD; Blue Buffalo Gastrointestinal Support (BB)] for the remaining 4 wk (wk 5 to wk 8). Fecal scores were recorded daily, and fresh fecal samples were collected at wk 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 for measurement of pH, dry matter, and metabolite and BA concentrations. Fecal microbiota were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and qPCR, which was used to calculate dysbiosis index. All data were analyzed as repeated measures using the Mixed Models procedure of SAS 9.4, with treatment treated as a fixed effect, cat as a random effect, and significance set at P< 0.05 and trends at P < 0.10. Metronidazole administration had dramatic effects on the outcomes measured, including increased fecal scores (looser stools), reduced fecal pH and dry matter %, reduced fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), branched-chain fatty acid, ammonia, phenol, and indole concentrations, and altered fecal BA concentrations (increased primary BA; reduced secondary BA). Furthermore, fecal bacterial alpha diversity was reduced, dysbiosis index was increased, and the abundance of several individual bacterial taxa were altered. Fecal outcome variables partially recovered over the next 4 wk, with some being impacted by diet. The change in fecal acetate concentrations were greater and the change in total SCFA concentrations tended to be greater in cats fed BB. Dysbiosis index and alpha diversity measures slowly recovered over 4 wk, without differences due to diet. Recovery of about 20 bacterial genera were impacted by diet. Primary and secondary BA concentrations and ratios demonstrated a prolonged impairment of primary to secondary BA conversion. Most of these changes were an effect of time, but the change of fecal cholic acid concentrations were less in cats fed BB. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that metronidazole is a powerful antibiotic that has long-lasting effects on the fecal microbiota and metabolites of cats. The veterinary gastrointestinal diet tested aided in the recovery of some variables measured.
PSVIII-10 An Experimental Weight Management Food Supports Metabolism and Allows for Less Calorie Restriction for Weight Loss in Both Dogs and Cats: a Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Motsinger Laura A , Jewell Dennis E , Hancock Leslie B , Morris Elizabeth M , Jackson Matthew I
Published: November 2023

Obesity is a growing health concern in dogs and cats. Furthermore, decreased maintenance energy requirements after body weight loss has been linked to rebound weight gain in dogs and cats. Previous research completed by our group has demonstrated that feeding a targeted weight management food to dogs and cats during both the maintenance and weight loss phases results in body weight loss and improved body condition despite increases in caloric intake during the weight maintenance phase. As such, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of feeding two different weight management foods on weight loss on a per Kcal basis in dogs and cats. Obese adult dogs (n = 39) and cats (n = 38) were subjected to a 36-d maintenance phase and then a 112-d weight loss phase in which they were fed either a standard weight management food (control) or a weight management food that included a blend of specific fibers, immuno-modulators, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory botanicals, and lipotropes (test). During the maintenance phase, pets were fed an adjusted amount of calories needed to maintain weight. Diets were adjusted throughout the weight loss phase to achieve a 1 to 2% reduction in BW per week. Intake was collected daily, and body weight (BW) was recorded every 7 d. To calculate the calorie deficit needed to achieve one unit of weight loss, metabolizable energy estimated from modified Atwater equations and food intake were used and the delta of energy intake between maintenance and body weight loss phases was divided by the delta of the BW change during weight loss. Delta energy/delta weight was reduced (P = 0.020) in cats fed the test food when compared with pets fed the control food such that cats fed the weight loss food required a deficit of 56.5 kcal/d and cats fed the control food required a deficit of 82.8 kcal/d to achieve 1 kg of BW loss. Similarly, delta energy/delta weight was reduced (P = 0.045) in dogs fed the test food when compared with dogs fed the control food such that dogs fed the weight loss food required a deficit of 57.2 kcal/d and dogs fed the control food required a deficit of 95.0 kcal/d to achieve 1 kg of BW loss. Overall, feeding the targeted weight management test food resulted in body weight loss with less of a calorie deficit when compared with feeding the control food, suggesting that the metabolism of dogs and cats is altered by the test food. These data suggest that feeding a food that requires less calorie deficit to lose body weight allows pets to consume more food, contributing to improved satiety, without negating their weight loss process. Future research may support a benefit against rebound weight gain.
PSVIII-12 Hexanal, as Identified Through Flash Gas Chromatography Electronic Nose, Strongly Correlates with Pv in Rendered Chicken Meal Samples, Although Additional Compounds Influence Aromatic Palatability
Authors: Mccracken Fiona , Fowler Jason , Timlin Claire , Towa Lili , Dickerson Sarah M , Coon Craig N
Published: November 2023

Samples of rendered chicken meal (CM) and chicken by-product meal (CB) were obtained from a commercial plant with samples representing various storage time points and a range of peroxide values from < 10 (1), 20-50 (2), 50-100 (3), 100-200 (4). Samples were utilized in a novel aromatic palatability trial with 20 working Labrador Retrievers (n = 10 males and n = 10 females). Aggregated interaction time showed the most pronounced difference between the lowest PV sample and the highest PV for both CB and CM (P < 0.0001, 0.001). Both CB1 and CM1 were significantly different from all other samples (P = 0.05). Samples were also sent to a third party for HERACLES Neo flash gas chromatography electronic nose analysis (e-nose). Analysis of e-nose chromatograms showed good discrimination between samples (DI = 97) with the largest spatial differences between the low and high PV samples. Chromatogram peaks were tentatively identified according to their Kovats index and the AlphaChemBase database. Component 1 (X-axis) accounted for 99.4% of the difference while component 2 (Y-axis) showed 0.54% of the difference. The strongest odor, as determined by the highest area peak was hexanal which produces a fatty and fishy smell. When evaluated in a bivariate model hexanal vs PV was well correlated on a 2P curve (R2= 0.986, P < 0.0001). However, hexanal was less correlated with aromatic palatability (R2 = 0.616. P = 0.09). Therefore, a primary least squares model was created to better display the relationship between palatability and oxidation. Utilizing two factors, the PLSR model explained 72% of the variation in the e-nose peak area data (X) and 90% of the variation in the PV*palatability (Y). Of the 61 aromatic compounds identified, the model identified 45 compounds with a VIP over 0.8. Both PV and palatability were well-fitted by the model as indicated by their position between the outer two ellipses (R2 = 75% to 100%). In the model, Hexanal had a VIP of 1.1 suggesting it was an important component, although other compounds had significantly better VIP scores and are likely to better predict palatability. Therefore, these data show aromatic hexanal is an accurate predictor of the oxidation of a product, although it may not provide the full picture regarding palatability.
PSVIII-23 Volatile Flavor Profile of Wet Pet Food Influences Canine and Feline Palatability Performance
Authors: Beer Lesleigh , Hernandez Sebastian , Legako Jerrad F , White Brittany L
Published: November 2023

Volatile flavor compounds as they relate to canine and feline palatability of wet pet food has yet to be established in the industry. The objectives of this study were to determine volatile compounds in wet pet food in diets that performed differently in palatability feeding studies. Five pairs of wet pet food diets (n = 3 feline; n = 2 canine) were obtained from separate manufacturing facilities and were selected based on palatability preference (P < 0.05, n = 3) or palatability parity (P > 0.05, n = 2). Volatile compounds were extracted using solid phase microextraction and analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Diets were analyzed in triplicate. Significance was determined at P < 0.05. Alcohols, aldehydes, and hydrocarbons comprised the main groups, and 58 total volatile compounds were identified. 1-octen-3-ol, an artifact of lipid oxidation, was found in all diets and was consistently greater (P < 0.05) in diets that were less preferred in palatability testing. A feline diet less preferred in palatability performance had increased concentrations (P < 0.05) of volatile compounds such as furfuryl alcohol and 2-pentyl furan, derived from both the Maillard reaction and thermal lipid degradation pathways, respectively. Conversely, a canine diet with palatability preference was greater (P < 0.05) in lipid degradation products such as 2-pentyl furan, 1-hexanol, and p-xylene. Overall, one set of diets had an increased (P < 0.05) production of Maillard reaction products including Strecker aldehydes, furans, and pyrazines whereas lipid degradation products were predominant in the second set. In conclusion, these data generally showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in Maillard reaction and lipid degradation products in each pair of diets. Future studies are warranted to better understand how the volatile compound profile impacts palatability for canines and felines. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that volatile compound profile analysis could be utilized to further elucidate influencers of pet food palatability preferences.
PSIX-26 Reproductive Management Practices for Beef Cow-Calf Producers in Virginia: a Survey
Authors: Vidlund Trinity , Craun Hannah , Mercadante Vitor R G R G
Published: November 2023

The Virginia Master Cattlemen (VMC) is an extension program with the goal of educating beef cattle producers on best practices and management. Reproduction management strategies are essential in ensuring beef cow-calf producers achieve one healthy calf, per cow, every year. Every year, during the VMC, a survey on reproductive management practices and adoption of technologies is performed as a representation of current practices of beef cow-calf producers. Over three years (2021-2023), we obtained data from a total of 276 producers in VA. Out of all participants, 71.74% indicated that they had a defined breeding season. Of those, 33.17% had a breeding season of 70 days or less. Furthermore, 47.81% of producers had both a Fall and Spring breeding season, while 24.12% and 28.07% of participants designated their breeding seasons as either Fall or Spring, respectively. Moreover, 62.28% of participants reported that 40% or more of their cows calve within the first 21 days of the calving season. The bull-to-cow ratio was assessed on operations electing to use natural service, with 71.27% of producers having a minimum of a 1:25 bull-to-cow ratio. A total of 66.54% of the participants reported regularly measuring body condition score of their cows. Over the three years, the most adopted reproductive practice on farms was pregnancy diagnosis, with 31.13% of producers indicating they perform pregnancy diagnosis on their herds every year. The second most utilized practice is the bull breeding soundness exam, with 26.11%. Artificial insemination is continuously gaining popularity, with 19.44% of producers reporting they artificially inseminated their cattle over the past three years. Additionally, 15% of producers reported estrus synchronization of their cattle. However, embryo transfer and sexed semen are the two reproductive practices that were least adopted by producers, with 3.72% and 4.60%, respectively. Overall, compared with the 2017 USDA NAHMS cow-calf report, Virginia producers are more advanced with their reproductive management practices compared with the average cattlemen in the United States.
PSIX-24 Social Trust in a Small Dairy Farmer Organization in Southeast Brazil
Authors: dos Reis Beatriz Q Queiroz , Benardes Elaine , Sarturi Jhones O , Rodrigues Barbara , Mclain DeAnja , Goulais Marie , Pessoni Juliana
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to analyze the social trust in a group of dairy farmers in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. The related Association of Dairy Producers (ADP) is like most small rural organizations present in Brazil that emerged to meet the public policies. Current assessment had three stages: a) identifying producers; b) applying the surveys; and c) data analyses. The producer association was unable to provide some basic information about its members (such as phone number), which signals a lack of trust. To identify the ADP members, it was necessary to visit the milking parlor expansion tanks to find such contact. Another situation reinforced the first impression regarding the lack of social trust: an ADP member did not authorize the access to to the research conduct the surveys for the members that used the expansion tank installed on his land. The surveys were then conducted at four out of five locations where expansion tanks were installed. Among the ADP members surveyed, 68.75% answered the survey. Approximately 82% of respondents indicated caution when dealing people in general (inside or outside the ADP). Although there was an indication of lack of social trust, 54.4% of producers trusted entirely the ADP; 22.7% partially trusted; 13.6% were indifferent; 4.5% had low trust, and 4.5% did not trust. When voluntary participation in decision in the association activities was questioned, 68.2% of the surveyed members answered “actively participate”, 31.8% “participate without actions,” and none of the surveyed members admitted no participation. Approximately 82% of the surveyed members had a positive perception of the association, while 18% believed it was not properly managed and inferred no longer assist with it in the future. A greater participation in the association activities may have not being observed due to the fact that current association was transitioning into a cooperative business model at the time of current data collection. For 18.25% of the members, the two main causes of the distrust in the recently created agricultural cooperative was related to: a) the requirement to obligatory become a member; and b) the delay in the construction completion of the dairy processing plant. The results suggest that producers show signs of general social distrust, indicated by concerns regarding the advantages, disadvantages, or even the risks associated with becoming members of the agricultural cooperative. Nonetheless, the vast majority of producer members trusted in the association. Further assessment is warranted to investigate if the source of general social mistrust observed erupted from internal (local community) or external (city, state, and federal public policies) venues of the society.
PSVII-14 Reduction in Heart Rate Variability Parameters in Horses Treated with a Mixture of Lavender and Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Authors: Secrest Maura , Wendorf Kathryn , Ferguson Clarence Edward
Published: November 2023

Routine medical examinations can produce stress which can negatively impact the health and well-being of horses. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a non-invasive and inexpensive method to measure the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity, which can help identify stress in horses. This study examined the effect of a combination of lavender and eucalyptus essential oil on stress responses in horses undergoing a routine medical exam. After a five-minute stall rest (baseline reading) data were collected in three, five-minute intervals (walk to and enter stock, medical exam, and recovery in stall). This study utilized a switch-back design where each horse (n = 10) received both treatments on different dates. The treatment groups received lavender (20%) and eucalyptus essential oil (5%) dissolved in petroleum jelly and virgin sunflower oil applied to inner nostrils. The control treatment consisted of only petroleum jelly and virgin sunflower oil applied to inner nostrils. The root mean square of the successive differences of heartbeats (RMSSD) was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) when horses were treated with essential oils while walking to stocks (51.7 ± 3.7), during the medical exam (50.5 ± 4.9), and during the recovery period (64.1.9 ± 5.7) compared with control treatment, to stocks (36.1 ± 4.4), the medical exam (39.0 .± 4.5), and during the recovery period (49.7 ± 5.5). The measured SD1 (parasympathetic) was significantly greater (P < 0.008) at walk to stocks in horses treated with essential oils (37.2 ± 1.9) compared with control treated (30.3 ± 3.1). The measured SD2 (sympathetic) was significantly less (P < 0.008) at walk to stocks in horses treated with essential oils (62.8 ± 1.9) compared with control treated (69.7 ± 6.8). The ratio of SD1/SD2 was significantly less (P < 0.008) at walk to stocks in horses treated with essential oils (1.7 ± 0.17) compared with control treated (2.4 ± 0.26). The high frequency percent (HF%) was also greater (P < 0.04) at walk to stocks in horses treated with essential oils (39.6 ± 4.9) compared with control treated (26.0 ± 4.1). The standard deviation of RR Interval (SDNN) values were increased (P < 0.03) in horses treated with essential oils during walking to stalks (50.8 ± 1.9), the medical exam (56.7 ± 5.0), and the recovery period (72.4 ± 12.9) compared with the control treatment, to stalks (44.5 ± 5.2), medical exam (44.0 ± 4.5), and during the recovery period (54.6 ± 6.2). The results of this study indicate that lavender and eucalyptus oil could be an effective means of reducing short-term stress in horses. The findings of this study can help develop more effective and humane management strategies for horses.
PSX-15 Precision Beef Dry Matter Intake Estimation on Extensive Rangelands
Authors: Parsons Ira L , Menendez Hector M , Brennan Jameson R , Ehlert Krista
Published: November 2023

Predicting dry matter intake (DMI) for beef cattle on extensive rangelands presents a significant challenge to determining stocking rates. Traditionally, DMI is estimated by taking full body weight (BW) multiplied by a percentage selected based on animal class, production phase, and forage quality, which introduces tremendous levels of accumulated error at the herd level. Animal Unit Months (AUMs) are utilized to simplify the determination of stocking rate (animal units per area per a specific period of time) of pastures. This challenge represents a tremendous opportunity to leverage precision technology to account for individual animal variation in BW and growth, with subsequent impacts on herd-level decisions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to utilize precision livestock technology (PLT) collected data to build a precision system model (PSM) to evaluate the differences in predicted DMI using either initial BW, expected mid-season BW, or PLT measured BW. The PSM model was built utilizing BW data measured using SmartScale (C-Lock Inc.) for 60 days during the summers of 2021 and 2022 on Angus yearling steers (average initial BW 393.71 ± 39.01 and 315.23 ± 53.91 kg, n = 130 and 124, for year 2021 and 2022, respectively) on native pastures at the South Dakota State University Cottonwood Field Station. The PSM evaluated total forage consumption and deterministically estimated hectares of pasture required to meet the herd forage demands relative to available biomass (kg/ha). the PSM estimated 4.49% and 6.94% more DMI at the herd level compared with using initial BW for years 2021 and 22, respectively, and 1.64% less DMI than mid-season BW in 2021. This resulted in an additional 14.03 and 17.95 ha required for years 2021 and 22, respectively, according to PSM estimates compared with initial BW, while animals were understocked by 5 and 0.3 ha for 2021 and 2022, respectively, using mid-season BW. Individuals expressed a divergent growth rate, resulting in greater misalignment between static and PSM predicted DMI as the grazing period progressed (Menendez et al., 2023), indicating greater opportunities for targeted grazing management in long grazing periods. Therefore, applying precision data provides more precise DMI estimates and demonstrates the advantages and disadvantages of herd-level estimates. The use of PSM helps to identify high-leverage precision tools to minimize a performance gap like overgrazing extensive rangeland systems and demonstrates the critical need to develop robust data-collection and processing steps to leverage continuously collected PLT data.
PSX-20 Effects of a Phytogenic Supplement Pre- and Post-Calving on Colostrum Yield and Composition, and Cow-Calf Performance
Authors: Jardon Grace H , Kovarna Madison , Moening Katherine , Brandner Andrea , Werner Hannah , Heldt Jeff S , Menezes Ana Clara Baiao
Published: November 2023

Objectives were to determine the effects of a phytogenic supplement (a blend of turmeric, capsicum, and pepper extracts), fed pre- and post-calving, on colostrum yield and quality, and cow-calf performance. Twenty-three (BW = 532.08 ± 9.13 kg; age 36 mo) crossbred Angus cows were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups: 1) Not supplemented (CON, n = 7); 2) supplemented with 250 mg· animal-1· d-1 (PHYT250, n = 8); or 3) supplemented with 500 mg· animal-1· d-1 (n = 8) of the phytogenic supplement. Cows were individually fed the supplement from 30 days (± 5 days) pre-calving (d –30) to 60 days (d 60) post-calving. Total colostrum from the left-rear quarter was collected on d 0 (pre-suckling), and d 1, d 2, and d 3 post-calving. Colostrum weight and volume were recorded, and samples (50 mL) were collected and analyzed for percentages of fat, protein, milk urea nitrogen (MUN), other solids, and lactose. Cow BW was obtained on a biweekly basis from d -30 to d 60. Calf BW was measured on d 0, d 30, d 42, and d 60. Data were analyzed as repeated measures using the MIXED procedure of SAS with treatment, day, and their interaction as fixed effects and animal as a random effect. No treatment by day interaction (P = 0.42) nor main effects of treatment and day (P ≥ 0.25) were observed for colostrum volume. Fat concentration tended to be greater (P = 0.07) for PHYT250 and PHYT500 compared with CON. A treatment × day interaction (P = 0.05) was observed for MUN, with PHYT250 being greater than PHYT500 but similar to CON on d1. There was no difference between treatments for all other days for MUN. No treatment by day interactions (P ≥ 0.15) or main effects of treatment (P ≥ 0.16) were observed for other components. However, there were main effects of day (P ≤ 0.02) with protein being greater on d 0 compared with all other days, and other solids and lactose being greater on day 3 compared with all other days. Main effects of day were observed for cow and calf BW (P ≤ 0.01). Cows were heavier on d 28 and d 42, while calves were heavier on d 56 compared with all other days. Even though we did not observe differences in performance, our results suggest that feeding a phytogenic supplement 30 d pre-calving up to 60 d post-calving may impact fat and MUN in colostrum. To complement these data, we are currently evaluating concentrations of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) in colostrum and calf blood. Further, milk collections will be performed in specific time-points up to weaning, to evaluate any possible effects of our treatments in milk yield and composition.
PSX-10 Pilot Study Estimating Energy Expenditure in Dogs Using a Quantified Health Approach Indicates Potential to Improve Estimation of Energy Requirements
Authors: Carnagey K M , Thompson R J , Wernimont S M
Published: November 2023

Over 50% of dogs in the USA are overweight or obese indicating that owners find it difficult to know how much food their dog needs. Feeding guidelines are based on the average energy requirements of dogs and do not take into account measured activity levels, which may lead to overfeeding by well-intentioned owners. The most common published energy prediction equation is (RER*AF) where RER is Resting Energy Requirement [70*(BW kg)0.75)] and AF is the Activity Factor, which generally ranges between 1 (body weight loss) and 8 (heavy work). This equation requires the user to estimate activity levels when selecting an AF, which may result in under- or overfeeding. The objective of this pilot study was to determine the ability of collar-worn activity monitors to more accurately predict the energy expenditure of dogs. Ten weight-stable beagles were group-housed at the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Center in Topeka, KS. Dogs were provided daily access to open, outdoor play space and human interaction; water was freely available. Dogs were weighed before feeding on days 1 and 5 of each of the 2 test periods. Accelerometer-based activity monitors were attached to the collars of the dogs on day 1 of each test period and activity was continually measured throughout the study using the activity monitor. Daily food consumption in grams was recorded and was converted to energy intake using the caloric density of the food. Daily energy requirements were calculated for each dog using the standard RER equation and either a standard AF of 1.6 or the estimated energy required for activity, in which newly established algorithms for quantification of walking, trotting, and running behaviors were paired with estimated caloric expenditure based on level of exertion (quantified health approach). The mean absolute error (MAE) of each method was calculated as the absolute value of the difference between the daily energy requirement vs. the daily caloric intake for each dog. The MAE was averaged across all dogs and all days for each of the two methods. The MAE ± SD of the standard RER and AF was 103 ± 126 kcal/day (Range -21.5 to 216 kcal/day). The MAE ± SD of the quantified health approach was 86 ± 90 kcal/day (Range -37.6 to 164.4 kcal/day). Both approaches resulted in normal MAE distributions. In this pilot study, quantifying energy expenditure using a wearable activity monitor reduced over-feeding by 16.5% compared with standard equations. In the future, energy predictions based on measured activity could result in more accurate feeding recommendations than traditional approaches. Future research aimed at optimizing energy predictions may help address the problem of pet obesity. This study was approved by the Hill’s Internal Animal Care and Use Committee. Funding: This study was funded by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
PSXIII-29 Nutraceutical Effects of Fertilized and Unfertilized Sericea Lespedeza Hay on Gastrointestinal Parasitism and Whole-Plasma Metabolome of Naturally Infected Goats
Authors: Smith Yuri , Taiwo Godstime A , Ogunade Ibukun M , Pech-Cervantes Andres A , Idowu Modoluwamu , Estrada-Reyes Zaira M , Terrill Thomas H
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was assessing the effect of the dietary inclusion of unfertilized (AS) and fertilized (AR) Sericea lespedeza hay on the parasitic burden, packed cellular volume (PCV), and whole-plasma metabolome of naturally infected goats. Thirty-six naturally parasite-infected (>5,000 eggs/gram) Spanish goats (23.9 ± 0.15 kg) were randomly allocated (12 goats per treatment) into three dietary treatments: a) Control (Bermudagrass hay), AS (Unfertilized lespedeza), and AR (fertilized lespedeza) for 60 days. All treatments were supplemented with a commercial concentrate following a 70:30 forage: concentrate ratio. Feed samples, blood samples, and fecal samples were collected and recorded weekly to estimate chemical composition, fecal egg counts, and PCV. Additionally, whole-plasma metabolomic analysis was performed using chemical isotope labelling/liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based technique. Pathway enrichment analysis and analysis of the differentially abundant metabolites were performed using MetaboAnalyst 5.0 software. Data were analyzed with the GLIMMIX procedure (repeated measures) of SAS with the fixed effect of treatment, week, and the random effect of animals. Total condensed tannins and precipitable phenolics were greater (P < 0.05) in AS compared with AR (13.9 vs. 6.5% DM; 95.3 vs.9.5 mg/g). However, both AS and AR reduced (P < 0.01) fecal egg counts compared with the control (1,100, 1,450 vs. 3,500 eggs/gram). Conversely, PCV was greater in AR compared with the control (23.6 vs. 20.6%), but no differences between AR and AS (23.6 vs. 22.5%) were observed. Compared with the control, relative distribution of glutamine and beta-leucine were increased in AS and AR. The pathway enrichment analysis revealed that dietary AS and AR increased glycine, serine, and purine metabolism compared with the control. Collectively, results from this study suggest that dietary AS and AR reduced fecal egg counts by improving anti-oxidative metabolism, muscle regeneration capacity, and immune response in naturally infected goats.