Commercial Calf Research Articles

Biochemical and physicochemical characteristics and volatile profiles of Erzincan Tulum cheese coagulated by herb-fortified artisanal lamb rennet

The characteristics of Erzincan Tulum cheese (ETC), an artisanal ewe-milk cheese and the first cheese with the designation of origin in Türkiye, are closely related to the geographical location of production and the human factors influencing every stage of the production process. This study aims to determine the influence of different coagulants (namely, herb-fortified artisanal lamb rennet (ALR), artisanal calf rennet (ACR), and commercial calf rennet (CCR)) on the biochemical, physicochemical characteristics, and volatile compounds of ETC, produced on the Heybeli plateau of the Erzincan province. Using artisanal rennet increased total solids, fat content, and acidity while decreasing pH and aw values. The highest PTA-SN (soluble nitrogen in 5 % phosphotungstic acid, w/v) and TCA-SN (soluble nitrogen in 12 % trichloroacetic acid w/w) values at the end of the ripening period (day 150 of storage) were observed in the ALR-Cheese (ALR-C). Furthermore, this cheese exhibited the highest rate of lipolysis (P < 0.01). Electrophoretograms revealed that αs-1 and β-casein degradation rates were the most significant in ALR-C. Following the 30th day of storage, the highest counts of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were found in ALR-C. The most rapid reduction of coliforms, E. coli, and yeast-mold was observed in this sample throughout the storage. Eighty-nine volatile compounds were identified in the samples. Particularly noteworthy, ALR-C exhibited the highest ratios of hexanoic, octanoic, and decanoic acids after 90 days of storage. Additionally, steroid compounds were exclusively detected in this sample. The findings of this research make a substantial contribution to the existing literature concerning rennet types and the aromatic profile of ETC. These aspects are crucial for further investigations to enhance the cheese's quality and safety.

Growth response of post weaned F1 Friesian × Borena (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) crossbred growing heifers fed on wheat straw-based densified complete feed block.

This experiment was designed to investigate the effect of feeding wheat-straw based densified complete feed block (DCFB) on daily weight gain, feed intake, digestibility and feed conversion rate in growing heifer calves. Eight weaned F1 Frisian*Borena (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) crossbred calves (92.5 ± 27.5kg body weight) and 5 months of age were randomly distributed into four groups, each with two animals evaluated under 4 × 4 double Latin Square Design for 240 days. The control treatment was natural pasture hay (NPH) and concentrate mix (CM) fed conventionally in a way that covers 50:50% requirements on dry matter (DM) bases and DCFB prepared by mixing wheat straw (WS) to concentrates mixture in the ratio of 50:50 (T2), 40:60 (T3) and 30:70 (T4), respectively. Each heifer group was fed on each diet for 60 days. At the end of each period the last 7 days were used to collect feed and feacal samples. However, the heifers were weighed each 15 days to estimate daily growth performances. It was found that significant (P < 0.05) differences among groups in average daily gain, feed conversion rate, feed intake and digestibility. The densification of WS and feeding in the form of feed block generally improved feed DM and nutrient intake and digestibility. The increase in the proportion of CM in the DCFBs also increased the DM and nutrient intake and digestibility. Heifer growth rate was higher (P < 0.05) in T1, T3 and T4 diets than T2 groups. Feed conversion ratio was higher (P < 0.05) both in T3 and T4 compared to T1 and T2. The total cost of production per each gram body weight gained was recorded higher (P < 0.05) for calves in the T2 group compared to calves in T1, T3 and T4. In conclusion, maintaining post weaned F1 heifer calves on DCFB composed of wheat straw and a commercial calf's concentrate based diet in the ratio of 40 to 60 would both biologically and economically feasible.

Combining SDS-PAGE to capillary zone electrophoresis-tandem mass spectrometry for high-resolution top-down proteomics analysis of intact histone proteoforms.

Mass spectrometry (MS)-based top-down proteomics (TDP) analysis of histone proteoforms provides critical information about combinatorial post-translational modifications (PTMs), which is vital for pursuing a better understanding of epigenetic regulation of gene expression. It requires high-resolution separations of histone proteoforms before MS and tandem MS (MS/MS) analysis. In this work, for the first time, we combined SDS-PAGE-based protein fractionation (passively eluting proteins from polyacrylamide gels as intact species for mass spectrometry, PEPPI-MS) with capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE)-MS/MS for high-resolution characterization of histone proteoforms. We systematically studied the histone proteoform extraction from SDS-PAGE gel and follow-up cleanup as well as CZE-MS/MS, to determine an optimal procedure. The optimal procedure showed reproducible and high-resolution separation and characterization of histone proteoforms. SDS-PAGE separated histone proteins (H1, H2, H3, and H4) based on their molecular weight and CZE provided additional separations of proteoforms of each histone protein based on their electrophoretic mobility, which was affected by PTMs, for example, acetylation and phosphorylation. Using the technique, we identified over 200 histone proteoforms from a commercial calf thymus histone sample with good reproducibility. The orthogonal and high-resolution separations of SDS-PAGE and CZE made our technique attractive for the delineation of histone proteoforms extracted from complex biological systems.

Effect of chymosin/pepsin ratio on milk coagulation and physical properties of model cheese

Chymosin and pepsin are the two major enzymes in coagulants for the cheese industry. They affect milk coagulation properties, curd composition, casein hydrolysis and the consequent development of cheese texture. Limited knowledge is available on the effect of the chymosin/pepsin ratio on the mentioned factors. This study aimed (1) to better understand the effect of chymosin/pepsin ratio on milk coagulation properties, casein hydrolysis, rheological and textural properties of model cheese during storage, and (2) to link casein hydrolysis to the rheological and textural properties. For this purpose, coagulants were prepared in which the ratio between the two enzymes was systematically varied. Our results showed that even when milk clotting activity was standardized, coagulants with different chymosin/pepsin ratios had a significant effect on curd firming rate and final firmness, which could be attributed to the different specificity of chymosin and pepsin for hydrolyzing κ-CN. During 4 weeks of storage, the chymosin/pepsin ratio influenced the hydrolysis of αs1-CN, and the subsequent properties of the protein network and the cheese texture. For coagulants with a higher proportion of pepsin, less intact αs1-CN and a higher degree of casein hydrolysis (expressed as protein fraction soluble at pH 4.6) were found. Correspondingly, the cheese had a weaker and less brittle network, and was softer, less elastic and more sticky. Commercial calf rennet showed more extensive hydrolysis of αs1-CN than other coagulants, which led to the weakest protein network and the softest cheese. The present study's findings can be used to control and design cheese with desired textures. For example, coagulants with varying chymosin/pepsin ratio or from a specific source can be used to modulate the casein hydrolysis.

The impact of sire breed on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of beef × Holstein steers.

Dairy herds are mating a portion of cows to beef cattle semen to create a value-added calf. Objectives of this study were to compare the feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of beef × Holstein steers by breed when sires represented bulls with commercially available semen. Three groups of single-born, male calves (n = 262) born to Holstein dams on 10 Pennsylvania dairies were sourced during 3 yr. Steers were sired by seven beef breeds: Angus, Charolais, Limousin, Hereford, Red Angus, Simmental, and Wagyu. Steers were picked up within a week of age and raised at two preweaned calf facilities until weaning (8 ± 1wk of age) under similar health and management protocols. Steers were then transported to a commercial calf growing facility where they were managed as a single group until 10 ± 2 mo of age when they were moved to be finished at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Livestock Evaluation Center feedlot. Groups of steers were selected for slaughter based on body weight. Carcass characteristics were evaluated by trained personnel and a three-rib section of the longissimus muscle (LM) was collected from each carcass for Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) evaluation and intramuscular fat determination. Steers sired by all sire breeds except for Limousin had greater average daily gain (ADG; 1.62 to 1.76kg/d) than Wagyu × Holstein steers (1.39kg/d; P < 0.05). Angus-sired steers had an 8.6% greater ADG than Red Angus-sired steers (P < 0.05). Angus, Charolais (1.73kg/d), and Simmental-sired steers (1.68kg/d) also had greater ADG than Limousin-sired steers (1.55kg/d; P < 0.05). Wagyu × Holstein steers spent 5 to 26 more days on feed (P < 0.05) than Limousin × Holstein, Simmental × Holstein, Angus × Holstein, and Charolais × Holstein steers. Angus and Charolais-sired steers were also on feed for 19 and 21 d fewer, respectively, than Limousin-sired steers (P < 0.05). Red Angus-sired steers had greater marbling scores than Simmental and Limousin-sired steers and Angus and Charolais-sired steers had greater marbling scores than Limousin-sired steers (P < 0.05). Angus, Limousin, and Hereford-sired steers produced the most tender LM as evaluated by WBSF; Angus-sired carcasses (3.82kg) were more tender than Charolais (4.30kg) and Simmental-sired carcasses (4.51kg; P < 0.05). Limousin and Hereford-sired steers (3.70 and 3.83kg, respectively) also had more tender steaks than Simmental-sired steers.

The effect of liquid feeding period on the growth performance of calves

In this research, health records of calves born in a private dairy cattle farms with a capacity of 400 dairy cows in Ereğli between October 2020 and October 2021 were evaluated. The data determined in the 70 days from birth to weaning of the calves were recorded individually. The birth and weaning weights of the calves were measured at monthly intervals with a sensitive electronic scale up to 100 kilograms. Calves were barned in individual calf hutches and roughage and concentrate feed were offered separately and freely in front of them. Calves received colostrum from their mothers for 3 days. For 70 days, they were fed totally 6 litres of milk twice a day. Commercial calf growth feed with 18% crude protein and 2800 Kcal/kg ME energy was purchased and high quality alfalfa grass produced in the farm was used in calf feeding. Health observations of the calves were made by the technician by scoring cough, nasal discharge, condition of eyes and ears and faeces according to the results of the health observations.

Ticari buzağı mamalarının mikrobiyolojik analizi ve izole edilen Enterococcus türlerinde antibiyotik dirençliliği

One of the reasons why calf milk replacer is preferred over unpasteurized bulk tank milk or waste milk with antibiotics on farms is that it prevents epidemic diseases and antibiotic resistance that may occur on the farm. In this study analyzed commercial calf milk replacer products (n = 12) obtained from dairy farms around Turkiye by microbiological culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In order to evaluate the microbiological quality of calf milk replacer, total bacteria count, coliform E. coli and E. coli O157-H7, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus spp. analyses were performed according to microbiological analysis methods determined according to ISO standards. Enterococcus spp. was isolated from all 12 calf milk replacer samples analyzed and molecularly confirmed by PCR with the presence of the gross-Es gene. Salmonella spp., E. coli, Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. were not isolated from the samples.&#x0D; Additionally, in the bacterial counts, an average of 5.3x107 Enterococci were counted from all samples in 1 gram of calf milk replacer. Antimicrobial analysis of the isolated bacteria was completed according to CLSI 2022 data, and 11 isolates were defined as multi drug resistance and one isolate was defined as extensive drug resistance. It was also determined that the isolate defined as extensive drug resistance was resistant to Vancomycin and carried the Van A resistance gene. Many proteins used in the preparation of calf milk replacers are of animal origin and may contain pathogenic bacteria. Milk replacers are used on most farms for biosecurity purposes. It is known that milk replacers affect microbiota. It was shown in this study that if calf milk replacers are not prepared under the regulations, they may cause harm rather than benefit to on-farm biosecurity factors. It is concerning that calves are given calf milk replacers containing antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. to sustain their lives when they are most vulnerable to disease during the window of susceptibility. When using calf milk replacer in calf feeding, field veterinarians should be informed about the microbiological certification of the product and provide information about pasteurization and presentation for consumption.

Capillary zone electrophoresis-high field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry-tandem mass spectrometry for top-down characterization of histone proteoforms.

Characterization of histone proteoforms with various post-translational modifications (PTMs) is critical for a better understanding of functions of histone proteoforms in epigenetic control of gene expression. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based top-down proteomics (TDP) is a valuable approach for delineating histone proteoforms because it can provide us with a bird's-eye view of histone proteoforms carrying diverse combinations of PTMs. Here, we present the first example of coupling capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE), ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), and MS for online multi-dimensional separations of histone proteoforms. Our CZE-high-field asymmetric waveform IMS (FAIMS)-MS/MS platform identified 366 (ProSight PD) and 602 (TopPIC) histone proteoforms from a commercial calf histone sample using a low microgram amount of histone sample as the starting material. CZE-FAIMS-MS/MS improved the number of histone proteoform identifications by about 3 folds compared to CZE-MS/MS alone (without FAIMS). The results indicate that CZE-FAIMS-MS/MS could be a useful tool for comprehensive characterization of histone proteoforms with high sensitivity.

41 Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Beef-Sired Steers Born to Holstein Dams

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare feedlot growth performance and carcass characteristics of F1 beef × Holstein steers (n = 124) sired by commercially available Angus (n = 19 from 7 sires), Charolais (n = 79 from 3 sires), SimAngus (n = 16 from 3 sires), or Wagyu (n = 10 from 2 sires) bulls. Male calves born from May to August of 2021, were sourced from 8 Pennsylvania dairy herds. Steers were raised by a commercial calf grower until April of 2021 (10.5 ± 1.5 months of age). Steers were then moved to the PA Department of Agriculture’s Livestock Evaluation Center (LEC) and transitioned to a high-energy ration. Individual feed intake was monitored using the GrowSafe Feed Intake Monitoring System (Model 4000E, Vytelle, Calgary AB, Canada). Steers were slaughtered after 90, 118, or 153 days on feed at the LEC. Pulls were based on a combination of visual appraisal and body weight. Linear models of growth performance traits and carcass characteristics included the fixed effects of sire breed, herd of origin, and birthdate. Binomial models of USDA Quality Grades and Yield Grades included a fixed effect of sire breed. Angus-sired steers were heaviest at feedlot entry (P &amp;lt; 0.01) and were on feed for the fewest days (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Angus × Holstein steers were heavier at slaughter (P &amp;lt; 0.01) than SimAngus and Wagyu-sired steers. Wagyu-sired steers had the least dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), and carcass ADG (P &amp;lt; 0.01) when compared with progeny of other sire breeds. No differences in gain to feed intake (G:F(; P = 0.90), back-calculated carcass G:F (P = 0.62), net energy of metabolism (P = 0.70) and net energy of gain (P = 0.70), nor hip height at harvest (P = 0.14) were detected between sire breeds. Wagyu × Holstein carcasses were the lightest (P &amp;lt; 0.01) and had the least amount of backfat (P = 0.01). Dressing percentage tended to be least (P = 0.10) in Charolais × Holstein carcasses (60.5%) and greatest in SimAngus × Holstein carcasses (61.7%); carcasses from Angus and Wagyu-sired steers were intermediate and not different. About 84% of Angus × Holstein carcasses graded Choice while only 31% of SimAngus × Holstein carcasses graded Choice (P = 0.03). However, there were no differences in called marbling scores between sire breeds (P = 0.15). Charolais × Holstein tended to have the lowest proportion (4%) of Yield Grade 1 carcasses (P = 0.05). Angus-sired steers were on feed for the fewest days when compared with steers sired by other beef breeds. Wagyu × Holstein steers had reduced ADG, DMI, and subsequent carcass weight in comparison with compared steers of other sire breeds.

Whole-plant flint corn silage inclusion in total mixed rations for pre- and postweaning dairy calves

Assuming that acetic acid plays a minor role in the development of ruminal epithelium of preweaning dairy calves, the fiber supply for growing calves has been neglected. More research has been done on including starch and nonfibrous carbohydrates in solid feed for preweaning calves. Accordingly, the fiber requirement of these calves is not well known, as diet recommendations vary greatly. Hence, elucidating the effects of including fiber from long particle sizes in the diet may be essential for helping calves overcome the transition challenge during weaning. Forty-five Holstein calves were used in a randomized block design, considering sex, birth date, and weight at 28 d of age, when the supply of the total mixed ration (TMR) with the inclusion of corn silage started. Three TMR with increasing whole-plant flint corn silage content (0, 10, or 20% on a dry matter basis) were compared: 0CS, 10CS, or 20CS, respectively. During the first 28 d of life, the calves were managed homogeneously and were fed 6 L/d of whole milk, a commercial calf starter pelleted, and water ad libitum. Next, the solid diet was changed to the respective solid feed treatment. Calves were gradually weaned from 52 to 56 d of age but were evaluated for an additional 14 d postweaning. Feed intake was measured daily, while body weight and metabolic indicators of intermediate metabolism were evaluated weekly. Ruminal fluid was collected at 6, 8, and 10 wk of age. Behavioral analysis was conducted on wk 7 (preweaning) and 10 (postweaning). There was a quadratic effect for dry matter intake from wk 7 to 10, with higher intake for the 10CS diet than the 0CS and 20CS diets. Consequently, the 10CS diet also promoted greater average daily gain at wk 8 and 9 compared with the 0CS and 20CS diets. However, the final body weight was not affected by the different solid diets. Silage inclusion in calves' diet positively affected time spent ruminating and chewing pre- and postweaning. Including 10% of whole-plant flint corn silage in the diets of young dairy calves is a strategy to increase total solid intake and decrease acidosis risk by increasing pH and ruminating activity around weaning.

The catalytic and kinetic characterization of Bacillus subtilis MK775302 milk clotting enzyme: comparison with calf rennet as a coagulant in white soft cheese manufacture

BackgroundCalf rennet is considered the traditional source of milk clotting enzyme (MCE). However, increasing cheese consumption with decreasing the calf rennet supply had encouraged the quest for new rennet alternatives. The purpose of this study is to acquire more information about the catalytic and kinetic properties of partially purified Bacillus subtilis MK775302 MCE and to assess the role of enzyme in cheese manufacture. ResultsB. subtilis MK775302 MCE was partially purified by 50% acetone precipitation with 5.6-fold purification. The optimum temperature and pH of the partially purified MCE were 70 °C and 5.0, respectively. The activation energy was calculated as 47.7 kJ/mol. The calculated Km and Vmax values were 36 mg/ml and 833 U/ml, respectively. The enzyme retained full activity at NaCl concentration of 2%. Compared to the commercial calf rennet, the ultra-filtrated white soft cheese produced from the partially purified B. subtilis MK775302 MCE exhibited higher total acidity, higher volatile fatty acids, and improved sensorial properties. ConclusionsThe partially purified MCE obtained in this study is a promising milk coagulant that can replace calf rennet at a commercial scale to produce better-quality cheese with improved texture and flavor.

Transcriptional changes detected in fecal RNA from neonatal dairy calves of different breeds following gastrointestinal disease of varying severity.

Gastrointestinal (GI) disease is a major health concern in preweaned dairy calves. The objective of this fixed cohort study was to use RNA isolated from preweaned Holstein and Jersey heifer calf feces to study the molecular adaptations to variable clinical GI disease. The study was conducted on a commercial calf ranch in the western U.S. Enrolled calves were assessed twice daily for variations in demeanor, milk intake, and hydration. Fecal consistency scores were recorded at enrollment (day 1), and on the day (day 10) that a fecal sample was collected for differential gene expression (DGE). Calves with diarrhea on either day were classified as having either uncomplicated, localized GI disease (scours), or systemic GI disease (systemic enteritis). Eighty-four calves' fecal RNA was evaluated for DGE, of which 33 calves (n = 20 Holstein; n = 13 Jersey) were consistently healthy. The remaining 51 calves (n = 23 Holstein; n = 28 Jersey) experienced varying severity of GI disease during the sampling window. Genes of interest were related to the inflammatory response (i.e., IFNG, NFKB1, NOD2, TLR2, and TLR4) and cell membrane or cytoplasmic transport (i.e., AQP3, FABP2, KRT8 and SLC5A1). Breed-specific findings indicated that AQP3, IFNG, and TLR4 were upregulated in Holsteins with systemic enteritis, whereas KRT8 was downregulated in systemically affected Jerseys. Holsteins did not appear affected by scours aside from a tendency for DGE of toll-like receptors (TLRs) on the day of diarrhea. However, Jersey calves consistently demonstrated a tendency to upregulate IFNG, NFKB1, and TLR4 when affected with either scours or systemic enteritis. These findings were more pronounced in systemically affected Jersey calves and were observed as a delayed response to both scours and systemic enteritis. These findings support previous observations suggesting that Holstein calves may be better equipped than Jersey calves to rapidly fight pathogen invasion.

Influence of chymosin type and brine concentration on chemical composition, texture, microstructural and colour properties of Turkish white cheeses

The effects of chymosin type and brine concentration on chemical composition, texture, microstructure and colour of white cheese were studied during ripening. The cheeses were manufactured from cows’ milk using microbial rennet (Rhizomucor miehei), commercial calf rennet or recombinant chymosin (Kluyveromyces lactis), and ripened in whey brines containing 10% or 12% NaCl. Increasing the brine concentration increased the ratio of salt to moisture, hardness, gumminess, chewiness and whiteness values of cheeses and decreased the moisture, the ratio of moisture to protein and extent of proteolysis. The similar trends were observed in cheeses with microbial rennet compared with those with calf rennet or recombinant chymosin. pH values of all the cheeses unchanged during ripening but their brine pHs increased. A marked effect of rennet type on microstructure of the cheeses was visualised. In microbial rennet cheese brine salt content can be reducible to obtain satisfactory results in terms of quality parameters.

The proportion of the key components analysed in collagen-based isolates from fish and mammalian tissues processed by different protocols

The aim of this pilot study is to compare two extraction processes tested in our lab with intention to preserve the biological structure and functions of collagen-based isolate for biomedical purposes during its processing. Collagen type I was isolated from various animal sources from fish, porcine and rat skins. The resulting isolates, along with commercial calf collagens as control, were subsequently characterised and their composition examined by means of several analytical methods such as amino acid analysis, FTIR, SDS-PAGE. Moreover, the moisture, lipid, glycosaminoglycans, hydroxyproline and N contents were determined. We found that both the factors considered, the source of the collagen and the process employed, exerted effects on the final composition of the isolate and we monitored the key differences, in particular, with respect to the protein and lipid contents. Moreover, the study provides a discussion of issues surrounding the assessment of the actual pure collagen content determined on the basis of the content of hydroxyproline and the purity of the protein fraction.

Supplementation of lysolecithin in milk replacer for Holstein dairy calves: Effects on growth performance, health, and metabolites

Lysolecithin is an antiinflammatory emulsifier associated with improved apparent digestibility of total dietary fat and improved feed efficiency in dairy cattle. However, it is unknown if lysolecithin (LYSO) improves performance in calves. Moreover, since many conventional milk replacers use vegetable-sourced fat (e.g., palm oil), nutrient absorption and fecal score may be affected in neonatal calves. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of LYSO supplemented in milk replacer on performance, metabolites, and gut health of preweaned dairy calves. Holstein calves (n = 32) with adequate passive transfer were assigned in pairs (16 blocks) balanced by birth weight, date of birth, and sex at 1 d of age to randomly receive either LYSO (mixed in 2 milk replacer feedings at a rate of 4 g/d Lysoforte, Kemin Industries Inc., Des Moines, IA) or a milk replacer control (nothing added). Both treatments were fed 6 L/d milk replacer [22.5% crude protein, 16.2% crude fat (vegetable oil fat source) on a dry matter basis with 14% solids] by bucket in 2 daily feedings for 56 d. Calves were individually housed in wooden hutches and offered a commercial calf starter (24.6% crude protein and 13.9% neutral detergent fiber) and water by bucket ad libitum. Feed refusals and calf health was assessed daily. Weights and blood metabolites (glucose, total serum protein, albumin, creatinine, triglycerides, and cholesterol) were sampled weekly, and calves completed the study before weaning at 56 d of age. The effects of LYSO on calf average daily gain, feed efficiency, and blood metabolites were evaluated using a linear mixed model with time as a repeated measure, calf as the subject, and block as a random effect in SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). The effect of LYSO to improve the odds of abnormal fecal score was evaluated using a logistic model. Supplementation of LYSO increased average daily gain (control 0.28 ± 0.03 kg; LYSO 0.37 ± 0.03 kg; least squares means ± standard error of the mean) and increased feed efficiency (gain-to-feed; control 0.25 ± 0.03; LYSO 0.32 ± 0.03). Similarly, LYSO calves had a higher final body weight at d 56 (control 52.11 ± 2.33 kg; LYSO 56.73 ± 2.33 kg). Interestingly, total dry matter intake was not associated with LYSO despite improved average daily gain (total dry matter intake control 1,088.7 ± 27.62 g; total dry matter intake LYSO 1,124.8 ± 27.62 g). Blood glucose, albumin, creatinine, triglycerides, and cholesterol were not associated with LYSO. Indeed, only total serum protein had a significant interaction with LYSO and age at wk 5 and 6. Moreover, control calves had a 13.57 (95% confidence interval: 9.25-19.90) times greater odds of having an abnormal fecal score on any given day during the diarrhea risk period from d 1 to 28. The inclusion of LYSO as an additive in milk replacer in a dose of 4 g/d may improve performance, and calf fecal score, preweaning. Further research should investigate the mechanisms behind the effects of LYSO on fat digestibility in calves fed 6 L/d of milk replacer with vegetable-sourced fat.

Performance of preweaned Holstein calves given 2 phytogenic feed supplements in their starter grain

ABSTRACT Objective Our objective was to determine whether preweaned steer and heifer calves given a phytogenic starter supplement (either one containing caraway, licorice, oak bark, and vanilla that was soluble in milk, PM, or one containing caraway, licorice, oak bark, and vanilla, PC) or no phytogenic supplement, control (CTR), at a commercial calf ranch would have increased starter intake, weight gain, or rumen development. Materials and Methods Holstein calves (124) were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments, CTR, PM, or PC, at 2 d of age. Supplements PM or PC were added to individual feed buckets at each feeding at the rate of 0.25 g/kg of starter at a.m. and p.m. feedings. Calves were weighed at enrollment and at weaning, and blood samples were collected from a subset of 13 calves per treatment to assess rumen development. Weekly average DMI, milk intake, Glu, and BHB were analyzed using the Mixed procedure of SAS (v. 9.4; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC) Results and Discussion Weekly average DMI (P Implications and Applications Addition of PM or PC to starter feed did not increase DMI, rumen development, or BW gain. But, the dose may have been too small or not fed long enough to elicit a response during the preweaning period.

Novel Encapsulated Calcium Butyrate Supplement Enhances On-Farm Dairy Calf Growth Performance and Body Conformation in a Pasture-Based Dairy Production System.

Simple SummaryThe problem addressed in this study was that of enhancing healthy gut development in calves with the aim of promoting early weaning through faster growth using encapsulated calcium butyrate (ECAB, ButiPEARL™, Kemin Industries, Inc., Des Moines, IA, USA). Results showed that supplementation of neonatal calves with ECAB at 4 kg/ton of calf starter feed, under a pasture-based dairy production system, had a significant effect on calf growth and development, presumably through improved rumen and small intestine development, gut health, feed digestibility, and nutrient absorption. This first of its kind on-farm, pasture-based, dairy farmer-driven study makes a significant novel contribution to our understanding of the impact of supplementing neonatal heifer calves with ECAB on pre-weaning and post-weaning growth performance and body conformation traits in purebred Friesian and crossbred Friesian × Swedish Red and Friesian × Jersey. The practical implication is accelerated calf growth and improved lifetime performance.The effect of supplementing neonatal heifer calves with varying levels of ECAB on pre-weaning growth performance was investigated. Post-weaning growth was also measured, to determine any carry-over effect of pre-weaning supplementation of ECAB. Forty-eight heifer calves (7 ± 0.4 days old, average liveweight of 39.3 ± 5.3 kg) were utilized in a complete randomised experimental design, comprising 16 calves per pen, randomly allocated to one of the following three treatments: (1) Basal commercial calf starter mix without ECAB (Control); (2) control plus 4 kg/ton of ECAB (Low); and (3) control plus 6 kg/ton of ECAB (High). Calves were group-fed ad libitum for 77 days (11 weeks, pre-weaning period) with free choice access to water and 5.5 L of milk per head per day through an automated feeder. Calves were weighed weekly during the pre-weaning period, after which all calves were then weaned onto the same ryegrass pasture as one group. At approximately 9 months of age, calves were weighed to estimate post-weaning body weight gain. During the pre-weaning period, average daily dry matter feed intake was similar for 4 kg/ton and 6 kg/ton calves (649 g versus 688 g, respectively) and both were greater than that of the control calves (382 g). Average daily gain (ADG) was significantly higher for 4 kg/ton calves compared to 6 kg/ton calves or control calves (0.83 ± 0.03 kg, 0.74 ± 0.03 kg and 0.71 ± 0.03 kg, respectively; p = 0.0001). Similarly, 4 kg/ton calves had significantly increased chest girth (95.9 ± 0.7 cm), withers height (88.9 ± 0.5 cm), body length (82.9 ± 0.6 cm), and body condition score (1.99 ± 0.12) compared to 6 kg/ton calves (93.4 ± 0.7 cm, 87.4 ± 0.7, 81.5 ± 0.6 cm, and 1.67 ± 0.10, respectively) or control calves (92.9 ± 0.7 cm, 88.2 ± 0.5 cm, 80.1 ± 0.6 cm, and 1.30 ± 0.08, respectively). There was significant treatment × week interaction for all pre-weaning growth parameters. Breed differences were detected but there was no treatment × breed interaction. Post-weaning, 4 kg/t calves and 6 kg/t calves had significantly higher ADG compared to control calves (0.80 ± 0.03 kg, 0.85 ± 0.03 kg versus 0.70 ± 0.03 kg, respectively; p = 0.0047). It is concluded that under the conditions of this study, supplementing heifer calves with ECAB during pre-weaning period resulted in improved growth performance and there appears to be a post-weaning carry-over effect.

Effects of plane of milk-replacer nutrition on the health, behavior, and performance of high-risk Holstein bull calves from a commercial calf ranch

ObjectiveThis research study aimed to determine whether preweaning plane of milk-replacer nutrition influences health, standing and oral behaviors, and performance of high-risk calves.Materials and MethodsThirty-six Holstein bull calves (1 d of age) from a commercial calf ranch were assigned to either a high plane of milk-replacer nutrition (HPN; n = 18; 20 and 28% DM lipid and protein, respectively, Cow’s Match, Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Protein Co., Shoreview, MN) or a low plane of milk-replacer nutrition (LPN; n = 18; 20% DM lipid and protein, Herd Maker, Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Protein Co.) through weaning. Total serum protein concentrations confirmed that 72 and 76% of calves had failure of passive transfer (<5.2 g/dL) in HPN and LPN, respectively. All calves were bottle fed twice daily. The LPN were fed 455 g of DM/d of milk replacer (MR) until weaning, and the HPN calves were fed 830 g of DM/d of milk replacer during the first 10 d and 1,080 g from 11 d until weaning. Calf starter and water were offered ad libitum. Calves were step-down weaned beginning at 51 d and completely weaned after 58 d when consuming 1 kg of calf starter (as-fed basis). Data are reported as HPN versus LPN throughout, respectively.Results and DiscussionRisk for bloat and scouring were greater for calves fed the HPN, but there was no difference in antibiotic treatment or mortality. The HPN calves had greater performance over the preweaning period including final BW, ADG, and feed:gain (total kg of milk replacer + calf starter, kg of DM/kg of BW gain), but weaning was more stressful for HPN calves.Implications and ApplicationsIn conclusion, the high-risk calves fed a HPN had increased preweaning ADG, but there was also an increased incidence of scours. There may be differences in the health status of calves that may affect the ability to consume and use high MR levels. When feeding high-risk calves there may be a need for alternate strategies when determining the quality and quantity of MR being fed when compared with low-risk calves. Differences in gut integrity may influence the ability of high-risk calves to handle high levels of MR early in life. Potential issues with high-risk calves being fed a HPN might be reduced with increased feeding times per day, a gradual step-up method, or other nutritional strategies that improve gastrointestinal development and function.

Field trial to evaluate the effect of an intranasal respiratory vaccine protocol on bovine respiratory disease incidence and growth in a commercial calf rearing unit

BackgroundBovine respiratory disease (BRD) continues to be great challenge in calf rearing units. The urgent need to decrease the use of antibiotics and increase animal welfare in beef production has forced us to introduce new preventive methods. Vaccinations could contribute to the solution, but the high incidence of BRD already at an early age has made it difficult to introduce suitable vaccination programs. Challenge studies have shown promising results in 3–14 day old calves vaccinated with intranasal BRD vaccine, but very few field trials are available to assess the efficacy of the intranasal vaccines in field conditions. We evaluated the effect of one dose of commercial intranasal vaccination on calf mortality, daily gain, and treatment incidence for BRD in one calf rearing unit. In total, 497 calves (mean age 19 days) were included in our study, 247 of which were vaccinated at the time of arrival to the unit and 250 served as negative controls (unvaccinated). Vaccinated and unvaccinated calves were situated in separate compartments until weaning. Daily gain, treatment incidence, and mortality were recorded until the calves were transported to the finishing unit, which averaged 154.5 days from arrival.ResultsAverage daily gain over the complete study period was 1151.9 g/day (SD 137.9) for the vaccinated calves and 1139.5 g/day (SD 135.9) for the unvaccinated calves. Intranasal vaccination combined with older arrival age (17 days or older) resulted in a higher daily gain (47.8 g/day) compared with unvaccinated calves (coef. 0.0478, p = 0.003). This association was not recorded in calves that were younger than 17 days upon arrival. Intranasal vaccination was not significantly associated either with mortality (OR 0.976, p = 0.968) or treatment incidence for BRD (OR 1.341, p = 0.120). In total, six vaccinated calves (2.43%) and six unvaccinated calves (2.40%) died during the study period.ConclusionsVaccinating arriving calves with intranasal vaccine in the calf rearing unit did not decrease the mortality or treatment incidence for BRD, but it significantly improved the weight gain in calves transported to the unit at the age of 17 days or older.

Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) fruit as a new source of milk-clotting cysteine proteases.

This work reports the characterisation of caseinolytic and milk-clotting activities of proteases extracted from ripe fruits of Morinda citrifolia L., as a potential of their use in cheese production. Noni puree extract (NPE) was obtained by homogenising the fresh puree in 150 mM NaCl/50 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). The resulting protein concentration was of 0.367 ± 0.006 mg/mL, and an electrophoretic profile of the extract revealed protein bands ranging from 14 to 55 kDa. The proteolytic activity of NPE was higher when the extract had been previously incubated at pH 6.0 (8.859 ± 0.216 U/mg), whereas the optimum caseinolytic activity was observed at 50 °C. Noni puree proteases were strongly (98%) inhibited by iodoacetamide and E-64, suggesting the presence of only cysteine proteases in the crude extract. NPE proteases showed a milk-clotting activity (MCA) of 238.80 ± 5.29 U/mL, a specific milk-clotting activity (SMCA) of 9950.17 ± 220.74 U/mg, and an SMCA/PA ratio of 1124.31 ± 24.94, this last being comparable to those of commercial calf rennet. The cheese manufactured using NPE presented brittle and soft texture, high humidity, and showed sanitary conditions compatible with current Brazilian regulations. The product showed a slightly bitter taste, but still good acceptability, rating between 6 and 7 in the hedonic scale for flavour, texture, and overall acceptance. Lastly, there was 60% of positive purchase intent, demonstrating that noni fruit is a promising source of milk-clotting enzymes for the dairy industry.