bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PSX-13 Assessment of bull buying behavior using a simulated bull auction
Authors: Culbertson Miranda M , Rowan Troy N , Martinez Charles 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The bull buying behavior of Iowa cattle producers was assessed using an online simulated bull auction. Participants (n = 45) were asked a series of questions to determine the bull type they wished to bid on and the purchase price for the bull. Questions included the breeding objective of the producer and whether the bull would be bred to heifers. Participants were asked to identify the breed of bull they were interested in purchasing, the traits that were the most important to their breeding objective, and the maximum amount that they would be willing to pay. Once the buyer information was complete, the responses were randomly redistributed to other participants. As a result, a participant would receive the buyer information from another individual involved in the simulated bull auction. At this point, the participant role would change from buyer to bidder. A list of 70 bulls with expected progeny differences (EPD) was provided to each participant, and the simulated bull auction was accessed through an online auction platform via cell phones. Participants bid for bulls on behalf of the instructions of the buyer. After the sale, the bidder was asked if they were able to purchase the bull to fit the criteria requested by the buyer and if it was purchased within the given price range. The purchase information was returned to the original participant (i.e., the buyer). The buyer then stated if they were satisfied with the purchased bull. Questionnaires were collected, and information was compiled. The most common breeding objectives were replacement heifers, feeder calves, fed cattle, and profit. Important traits for purchasing a bull were calving ease direct, yearling weight, terminal traits, and docility. Only 16 participants indicated using indexes for selection. Criteria for removing a bull from consideration included low EPD for calving ease direct and docility, and if the bull was horned. Poor index values were listed by 9 participants as a reason to eliminate a bull. Responses from participants as the bidder, 83.7% indicated that the bull was purchased within the provided price range, while 16.3% were unable to purchase a desired bull within the given price range. When asked why the bidder bid on a specific bull, 28 stated the bull met the EPD profile, 16 stated the bull was in the correct price range, seven bulls met a phenotypic profile, and five bulls were purchased due to the bidder running out of time. Of the bulls purchased, 80% of the buyers were satisfied with the bull purchased by the bidder. The results from this simulated bull auction provide insight into tools and methods used by cattle producers when purchasing bulls and what, if any, genetics tools for selection are being used.
PSX-12 Implementation of virtual fencing technology to build resiliency of agriculture systems impacted by wildfire and subsequent flooding
Authors: Ochoa Luis , Utsumi Santiago A , Marta Sara , Perea Andres Ricardo , Spetter Maximiliano J , Ward Marcy , Spackman Casey , Cram Doug , Gifford Craig A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The Southwestern U.S. has experienced frequent drought over the past 30 yr, and wildfire frequency and intensity has been increasing which threatens western rangelands. In the west, livestock grazing systems often involve a combination of private, state, and federal land, and the grazing managers must comply with designated grazing plans. In 2022, the Black Fire in southern NM was the second largest wildfire in state history and burned hundreds of thousands of hectares of rangeland including fencing which impeded the ability to comply with grazing management plans. Local extension agents along with area beef producers and federal grazing managers revealed the largest challenge they faced was lack of fencing and fence damage due to wildfire loss and floods. Labor shortages, replacement costs, and difficult terrain inhibited the ability to replace fences and sufficiently manage cattle. Virtual fencing (VF) technology allows containment of cattle without physical fencing, but the technology has not been evaluated in extensive systems in the SW challenged by large pastures and extremely difficult terrain. NMSU Extension worked with producers and federal grazing managers to evaluate the effectiveness of VF as a response to wildfire. All procedures were approved by NMSU Institutional Animal Use and Care Committee (2211000086). Two large allotments (17,233 and 5,776 ha, respectively) were evaluated for cellular receptivity and LoRa WAN connectivity and 2 peaks per allotment were identified for installation of LoRa WAN receiving stations. Two ranchers enrolled in the program and were trained to VF principles and Vence software platforms. Cows (n = 100/rancher) were trained to Vence VF collars utilizing physical fence in conjunction with sound and electrical pulse. After a 4-d training period, cattle were grazed across 2 to 3 large pastures per site. Containment efficacy was evaluated via GPS position data. In allotment A and B, LoRa WAN packet communication was 46% and 37%, respectively. After 230 d of testing, cattle containment using VF in combination with remaining perimeter fence and terrain barriers was estimated at 79% and 94% for pastures A and B, respectively. Producers reported that GPS location data helped reduce gathering time by 1 to 2 wk and increased gathering efficiency by approximately 10%. Results demonstrated that VF technology can reasonably be used in response to partial fencing loss during post-fire recovery and there is a need for Extension to provide support for new technology utilization on ranching operations. Project was supported by USDA/NIFA #2023-68016-38885.
PSXII-4 Intercropping perennial cereal grain crops in alternate or same row seeding method for improved forage yield and quality
Authors: Ugwu Cosmas , Omokanye Akim , Hernandez Guillermo Ramirez , Thilakrathna Malinda S , Hostetller Chelsey , Arora Naveen , Puurveene Dick , Singh Kabal , Olson Alex , Ahmed Khalil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Intercropping perennial cereal crops with legume species can offer multiple ecosystem functions and agronomic benefits. This study evaluated the forage dry matter yield (FDMY) and the nutritive value of two perennial cereal grain crop species [ACE 1-rye and Kenza, intermediate wheatgrass (IWG)] intercropped with three perennial legume species (alfalfa, white clover, and sainfoin) using alternate- and same-row seeding methods at five different sites in Alberta. The experimental sites were established in June 2022 using a factorial experimental model with eight treatment factors, including perennial monocultures or intercrop with a legume species. One year after establishment in 2023, the forage dry matter yield (FDMY) varied significantly (P &lt; 0.05) across experimental sites, ranging from 228 kgּ ha-1ּ yr-1 for the IWG/sainfoin intercrop to 6,833 kgּ ha-1ּ yr-1 for the IWG and alfalfa intercrop treatment. Seeding methods (Same or Alternate row) and site location had a significant effect on the FDMY (P = 0.00126), indicating consistent performance in the two cropping systems across diverse environments and site locations. The study assessed eight treatments (cereal-legume combinations) for forage quality performance, of which seven treatments, including Rye-Clover, Rye-Sainfoin, Wheat-Alfalfa, Wheat-Clover, Wheat-Sainfoin, Wheat mono, and Rye mono, showed significant effects on forage quality factors of crude protein (CP), NDF, NDFD-48, and the Relative Feed Value (RFV). The nutritive value of forage varied across different treatments, with CP content ranging from 6.28% to 18.94% and acid detergent fiber (ADF) content ranging from 10.28% to 40.27%. This variation suggests that the protein and digestibility requirements for livestock consumption are met at different stages. Additionally, the study suggests that intercropping perennial cereal grain crops with legume species using either alternate or the same row seeding methods can lead to consistent forage productivity across different sites. The forages from these intercropping systems exhibit adequate concentrations of CP and total digestible nutrient (TDN), with an average TDN concentration across all sites of approximately 59.3%. This makes them suitable for fulfilling the dietary requirements of beef or dairy cows at various developmental stages. Further research is ongoing to investigate ecosystem functions such as biological nitrogen fixation and water-use efficiency to optimize management practices for sustainable forage production.
PSXIII-7 Effects of whole corn on gain and subsequent feedlot and carcass traits of Brahman steers stocked on Tifton 85 bermudagrass
Authors: Rouquette Monte , Banta Jason , Long Charles R , Turner Kyle , Norman Kelli , Paschal Joe , Randel Ronald D 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Supplementation (SUP) of stocker calves is used to enhance gain and/or adjust for stocking rates (SR). Our objective was to determine the influence of whole corn on performance of steers stocked on Tifton 85 bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. X Cynodon nlemfuensis Vanderyst] (T85) that has documented forage crude protein ranging from 18.5% in June to 13.5% in September. For a 3-yr period, Brahman (Bos indicus) steers, 15 mo old and 275 kg body weight (BW), were stocked on T85 and received daily whole corn at 0 (PAS), 0.3% BW (SUP3), or 0.6% BW (SUP6). A fourth treatment included SUP6 at an increased stocking rate (SUP6SR). The 3-yr average SR of 275 kg steers was 11 steersּ ha-1 on PAS, SUP3, and SUP6, and 15 steersּ ha-1 on SUP6SR. Average daily gain (ADG) was similar for SUP steers at 0.98 kgּ d-1 (SUP6), 0.92 kgּ d-1 (SUP3), and 0.92 kgּ d-1 (SUP6SR), but greater (P = 0.002) than PAS steers at 0.84 kgּ d-1. Steer gainּ ha-1 was greatest (P = 0.001) for SUP6SR at 1230 kgּ ha-1. Gain ha-1 was similar for SUP6 and SUP3 at 1,010 kgּ ha-1 and 941 kgּ ha-1, respectively, and similar for SUP3 and PAS (860 kg-1). Body weights off pasture tended to be greater (P = 0.083) for all SUP steers at 370 kg than PAS steers at 354 kg. Body condition score off pasture was similar for all SUP steers at 5.7 and different (P = 0.001) from PAS steers at 5.2. At termination of stocking, steers were shipped 700 km to a commercial feedlot in South Texas. Each year, steers were fed in the same pen until a visual assessment of about 1.25 cm backfat was attained. Days on feed were similar for all steers at 190 d. Feedlot ADG was similar for steers on SUP3 (1.36 kgּ d-1), PAS (1.34 kgּ d-1), and SUP6SR (1.29 kgּ d-1), but greater (P = 0.045) than steers on SUP6 (1.24 kg d-1). These feedlot ADG exhibited some compensatory gain effects from pasture treatments. Off feedlot weights were similar at 620 kg. Steers were transported 60 km to an abattoir for harvest and carcass trait evaluations. There were no differences across treatments for steer hot carcass weight, 367 kg; 12th rib fat thickness, 1.13 cm; marbling score, 395; calculated yield grade, 3.10; longissimus dorsi area, 85.02 cm2; or internal fat (kidney-pelvic-heart), 1.92%. With SUP:extra gain at 12.5:1 for SUP3 and 13.8:1 for SUP6, supplementation of whole corn for Brahman steers stocked on T85 was not as efficient as previous T85 x SUP experiments with DDGS, but may offer management options for specific cattle classes and ownership-stocking strategies.
PSXIII-6 Weed encroachment reduces soil organic carbon stock in bermudagrass pastures
Authors: Dubeux José C B , Brêtas Igor , Queiroz Luana , Kelly Courtland , Flynn Scott , Ingram Sam , Trumpp Kevin , Oduor Kenneth , Portuguez Javier , Bernardini Marilia , Ruiz-Moreno Martin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Weed encroachment might reduce stocking rate and overall animal performance in grazing systems. In addition, weeds can affect soil organic carbon because of changes in primary productivity and belowground biomass compared with well managed pastures. This study assessed different levels of spiny pigweed (Amaranthus spinosus L.) encroachment on bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] pastures. Spiny pigweed was drilled onto bermudagrass pastures to create three levels of encroachment: weed free, medium encroachment, and high encroachment. The weed-free pastures were treated with herbicide to control weed encroachment, and the medium had strips where weeds were controlled and strips uncontrolled. The high encroachment had no weed control. Treatments (weed free, medium, and high) were allocated in a randomized complete block design. The spiny pigweed was drilled in 2020 and grazing occurred from 2021 to 2023. Soil samples were collected in October 2023 to assess soil organic carbon (C) stock by determining soil bulk density and soil C concentration in the 0- to 5- and 5- to 15-cm layers. Results indicated that weed-free and medium-encroached pastures had greater soil organic carbon stock (20.2 Mg C/ha) compared with the weed-infested pastures (17.2 Mg C/ha). Soil C concentration was similar, but soil bulk density was lower in the weed-infested pastures, affecting soil carbon stocks.
PSVII-15 Interaction of supplemental rumen-protected lysine and methionine, and ractopamine-hydrochloride on cattle growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing calf-fed Holstein steers
Authors: Carvalho Pedro H V , Latack Brooke C , Veaslquez Cesar , Moura Gustavo A B , Zinn Richard A A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The objective of the current study was to investigate the effects of supplemental rumen-protected lysine and methionine (SMART) and ractopamine-hydrochloride (RAC) on cattle growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing calf-fed Holstein steers. Calf-fed Holstein steer calves [n = 96; body weight (BW) = 466 ± 29 kg] were used to evaluate the interaction of ractopamine and supplemental methionine and lysine on growth performance and carcass characteristics. Steers were blocked by initial off-truck BW and assigned within BW grouping to 16 pens (6 steers/pen). From d 1 to 67, all steers received the basal steam-flaked corn-based finishing diet. From d 68 to harvest (d 103), steers received experimental diets consisting of two levels of RAC (0 vs. 300 mg/hd/d; Optaflexx, Elanco US, Inc., Greenfield, IN) and two levels of supplemental SMART (0 vs. 0.67% DM basis, Smartamine ML Adisseo, Alpharetta, GA). There was an interaction (P = 0.04) between RAC and SMART supplementation, where cattle fed the combination of both supplements had an increase in dry matter intake (DMI) compared with cattle fed either RAC or SMART. However, there was no interaction (P ≥ 0.17) of treatments in other growth performance or carcass characteristic variables evaluated in the study. Carcass adjusted average daily gain (ADG) and energy efficiency of the diet increased (P ≤ 0.02) on cattle supplemented with SMART. Moreover, carcass-adjusted final BW and feed efficiency, as well as energy efficiency, increased (P ≤ 0.05) on cattle supplemented with RAC. However, neither SMART nor RAC supplementation affected (P ≥ 0.13) cattle DMI. Both SMART and RAC supplementation increased (P ≤ 0.03) carcass weight, with no effect (P ≥ 0.17) in other carcass characteristics. In conclusion, both SMART and RAC supplementation enhances cattle growth performance with no detrimental effects on carcass characteristics of calf-fed Holstein steers.
PSII-11 Temporal variables of the four-beat stepping gaits of the Mountain Pleasure Horse
Authors: Nicodemus Molly , North Ed , Culwell Robert , Ellsworth Sierra , Williams Toree 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The Mountain Pleasure Horse (MPH) is the oldest gaited horse breed in North America with genetic testing finding the breed is ancestral to all other American gaited horse breeds according to the MPH Association (MPHA). Further, the breed is classified as “threatened” according to the Livestock Conservancy with only 2,670 purebred MPHs living today. To expand numbers, the registration books for the MPHA were opened in 2009; however, 5 yr later the books were closed due to negative consequences including potential changes within the gait. Therefore, to ensure the preservation of the gait of the MPH, the objective of this study was to define the temporal variables of the four-beat stepping gaits of the purebred MPH. The six horses utilized for this study were MPHA registered with permanent registration status and were verified to be purebred using blood typing and pedigree tracing with pedigrees tracing back to the foundation sires on both sides of the pedigree as identified by the MPHA. Horses were ridden by their respective trainers at a flat walk and saddle rack following MPHA judging guidelines with those strides utilized for the study being selected by representatives of the breed association. A total of 10 strides for each horse (n = 60) for each gait were selected. Student’s paired t-tests were utilized to determine differences in temporal variables between gaits with P-value set at 0.05. Comparisons were also made within gaits using student’s paired t-test to determine differences between lateral and diagonal variables. Both gaits had a lateral footfall pattern that alternated between bipedal and tripedal support. The saddle rack was performed at a faster velocity than the walk with a longer stride length and shorter stride and stance durations (Table 1). Advanced placements and bipedal support were similar between gaits with lateral and diagonal variables similar within gaits (Flat Walk Lateral-Diagonal Comparisons: Advanced Placement; P = 0.31, Bipedal Support; P = 0.08; Saddle Rack Lateral-Diagonal Comparisons: Advanced Placement; P = 0.23, Bipedal Support; P = 0.11), thus, indicating the gaits had a regular rhythm with no couplets. These variables assist in distinguishing between the gaits of the MPH and between those performed by other gaited horse breeds.
PSII-15 Comparative analysis of equine diets on growth metrics and economic feasibility
Authors: Blythe Madison K , Anderson Mark J , Nelson Tatum B , Flores Karla V , Beverly Marcy M M , Kelley Stanley F , Martinez Rafael E 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The objective of the study was to assess the impact of two commonly available low non-structural carbohydrate equine diets on growth parameters and economic factors in young growing horses. To do this, young stock type horses n = 11; 6 fillies, 5 colts; body weight (BW) = 380.3 ± 15 kg] were separated into two groups that were balanced by age, sex, and BW. All horses were backgrounded for 14 d on a hay-only diet prior to the beginning of the study. Additionally, each group was assigned to one of two dietary treatments fed at 0.75% BW/d (as fed) twice daily in 12 h intervals for 56 d. Dietary treatments consisted of a leading national brand feed (n = 5) and Thomas Moore Calm and Safe (n = 6). Horses were allowed ad libitum access to Coastal bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay and fresh water. For the 56-d period, horses were exercised at a light workload for 30 min/d and 4 d/wk. For all growth measurements, a baseline measurement was recorded per horse. Growth measurements were then recorded at 7 d intervals. Data from these growth measurements were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS v9.4 with the fixed effects of day and diet. Growth metrics increased on all horses throughout the length of the trial regardless of dietary treatment (P ≤ 0.01), which is expected from young growing horses. A Diet x Day trend towards significance (P = 0.075) was observed for BW, as the leading national brand feed dietary treatment group tended to have heavier BW than the Thomas Moore Calm and Safe during the duration of the study. Additionally, body fat percentage was greater (P = 0.04) in the national leading brand feed group compared with the Thomas Moore group. None of the remaining growth metrics had any statistical difference across diets. Furthermore, there was no difference in dietary intake between dietary groups (P &gt; 0.5). These results suggest that the Thomas Moore Calm and Safe concentrate serves as a good alternative and economically friendly for young growing horses when compared with more traditional feeds currently on the market.
PSII-9 Impact of exercise on blood metabolites and other health parameters during the reconditioning of emaciated stock-type horses
Authors: Maldonado Ashley M , Boyd Jamie A , Bardassi Ariane Tabari , Rosa Laura Patterson 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In the equine industry, optimal and reduced-muscle-stress-inducing exercise levels are not well understood for horses recovering from negligence. To optimize equine recovery and welfare, this study delved into the effects of exercise among horses in rehabilitation from previous dietary neglect by evaluating blood biochemistry and health parameters. We conducted an 8-wk reconditioning study during Spring 2023, comprised of 9 horses assigned to one of the three diet groups: commercial low starch/sugar grain with Bermuda hay (Ctrl = 3), Total Equine extruded pellets with Bermuda hay (Trt = 3), and Total Equine extruded pellets only (Grn = 3). Horses were housed in 4.2 x 4.2m stalls, with access to ad libitum water, and exercised in a Priefert hot walker (Priefert Manufacturing, Mount Pleasant, TX) for 5 d/wk, with 2 d of stall rest. Exercise time gradually increased from 15 to 75 min/d through the 8 wk. Blood samples for biochemistry and immediate lactate measures, as well as clinical health parameters [body temperature (T); respiration rate (RR); and heart rate (HR)], were collected in wk 0, 4, and 8, during pre-exercise (baseline) and post-exercise at time = 0, 5, and 15 minutes. Data was analyzed using Proc Mixed procedures of SAS in a randomized block design considering week and individual horse. Diet had no impact on blood lactate (P &gt; 0.50), RR (P = 0.08), HR, or T. The alkaline phosphatase (ALKP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were significantly greater for the Grn when compared with the Ctrl and Trt groups (P ≤ 0.0001). These blood biochemistry health markers may indicate inflammation in the gastro-intestinal tract associated to the Grn diet. No significant impact on lactate and quick recovery of baseline health parameters indicate that the gradual increase and amount of exercise was likely adequate for this cohort of recovering horses. Further evaluation in other recovery horse groups is necessary to validate and establish a recommended exercise protocol for previously neglected horses in rehabilitation.