Early Fattening Research Articles

PSXI-24 Comparative analysis of the chemical composition and methane production from different total mixed fermentation (TMF) diets fed to Hanwoo cattle

Abstract Total mixed fermentation (TMF) feed is a mixture of forage, concentrate, and useful microorganisms utilized to enhance nutrient availability and livestock well-being. Recognized for its potential benefits, TMF has been noted to decrease acetate production while increasing propionate production in the rumen. However, a comprehensive understanding of its composition and potential impact on methane production remains lacking. Thus, this study investigated the chemical composition and in vitro methane production associated with different TMF diets designed for different Hanwoo cattle groups. A comparative analysis of 26 TMF diets, including 3 designed for calves, 7 for growing, 6 for early fattening, 6 for late fattening, and 4 for breeding, was conducted to examine their chemical composition. The TMF samples were submitted to Cumberland Valley Analysis Service (CVAS) for chemical analysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to visualize the TMF according to the Hanwoo feed-type groups and the chemical compositions to estimate the optimal parameters among different TMFs. An in vitro gas production trial was conducted to determine the effects of different TMFs on methane production. Gas samples were collected at 12 and 24 h of incubation and methane (CH4) concentration was measured using a gas chromatograph. All data were analyzed using the SAS 9.4, with P < 0.05 being considered significant. Analysis of the chemical composition of different TMFs, including crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, ethanol-soluble CHO, and total digestible nutrients, showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) between the TMFs according to each Hanwoo category (calf, growing, early fattening, late fattening, and breeding). PCA revealed that digestibility-related parameters and fatty acid content were the main factors discriminating among the TMFs, with the TMFs for calves having the least fat content and those for the late fattening period having the greatest digestibility. Moreover, optimal TMFs were identified for each category of Hanwoo based on their chemical compositions. Among the TMFs tailored for each category of Hanwoo, TMF16, TMF23, TMF24, TMF25, and TMF26 were shown to have an optimal chemical composition for calves, growing, early fattening, late fattening, and breeding, respectively. A minimal reduction in CH4 production at 24 h incubation was observed in specific TMFs across different Hanwoo categories. Notably, TMF14 (7.21%) and TMF22 (8.52%) for calves, TMF05 (4.74%) for early fattening, TMF01 (3.76%) and TMF11 (3.76%) for late fattening exhibited reduced CH4 production. Additionally, CH4 production at 24 h incubation was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) by 23.06% and 10.90% in TMF15 and TMF26, respectively, both categorized for breeding TMF. Overall, while the chemical compositions of various TMFs did not significantly differ, TMF showed the potential to mitigate methane production in Hanwoo cattle.

Characterization and Function Analysis of miRNA Editing during Fat Deposition in Chinese Indigenous Ningxiang Pigs.

This study aimed to identify active miRNA editing sites during adipose development in Ningxiang pigs and analyze their characteristics and functions. Based on small RNA-seq data from the subcutaneous adipose tissues of Ningxiang pigs at four stages-30 days (piglet), 90 days (nursery), 150 days (early fattening), and 210 days (late fattening)-we constructed a developmental map of miRNA editing in the adipose tissues of Ningxiang pigs. A total of 505 miRNA editing sites were identified using the revised pipeline, with C-to-U editing types being the most prevalent, followed by U-to-C, A-to-G, and G-to-U. Importantly, these four types of miRNA editing exhibited base preferences. The number of editing sites showed obvious differences among age groups, with the highest occurrence of miRNA editing events observed at 90 days of age and the lowest at 150 days of age. A total of nine miRNA editing sites were identified in the miRNA seed region, with significant differences in editing levels (p < 0.05) located in ssc-miR-23a, ssc-miR-27a, ssc-miR-30b-5p, ssc-miR-15a, ssc-miR-497, ssc-miR-15b, and ssc-miR-425-5p, respectively. Target gene prediction and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the editing of miR-497 might potentially regulate fat deposition by inhibiting adipose synthesis via influencing target binding. These results provide new insights into the regulatory mechanism of pig fat deposition.

Effect of residual methane emission on physiological characteristics and carcass performance in Japanese Black cattle.

This study investigated the physiological characteristics and carcass performance associated with residual methane emissions (RME), and the effects of bull differences on CH4-related traits in Japanese Black cattle. Enteric methane (CH4) emissions from 156 Japanese Black cattle (111 heifers and 45 steers) were measured during early fattening using the sniffer method. Various physiological parameters were investigated to clarify the physiological traits between the high, middle, and low RME groups. CH4-related traits were examined to determine whether bull differences affected progeny CH4 emissions. Ruminal butyrate and NH3 concentrations were significantly higher in the high-RME group than in the low-RME group, whereas the propionate content was significantly higher in the low-RME group. Blood urea nitrogen, β-hydroxybutyric acid, and insulin concentrations were significantly higher, and blood amino acids were lower in the high-RME group than in the other groups. No significant differences were observed in the carcass traits and beef fat composition between RME groups. CH4-related traits were significantly different among bull herds. Our results show that CH4-related traits are heritable, wherein bull differences affect progeny CH4 production capability, and that the above-mentioned rumen fermentations and blood metabolites could be used to evaluate enteric methanogenesis in Japanese Black cattle.

The Effect of Long Time of Storage on Physical Quality, Nutrient Content, and In Vitro Digestibility of Cattle Complete Feed

This research aimed to determine the effect of a long time of storage on physical quality, nutrient content, and in vitro digestibility of cattle complete feed. The research was carried out in Sidomulyo Village, Gunem District, Rembang Regency from March to October 2019. 15 drums of cattle complete feed (@ 25 kg) were used as materials. It was made from rice bran 4.10%; Penisitum purpureum (Odot grass) 60.60%; rice straw 12.70%; gliricidia 8.30%; corn stover 10.80%; molasses 1.60%; minerals 1.60%; table salt 0.20%; and starter 0.30%. This research used one treatment factor, namely the length of time of storage of cattle complete feed. These consisted of five treatments, namely: long time of storage of 0.0; 1.5; 3.0; 4.5; and 6.0 months. Each treatment was repeated three times. The cattle complete feed with all the long time of storage preferred by the cattle. The cattle complete feed could be stored in good quality for 3 months. The storage over 3 months caused the quality of the cattle’s complete feed to decrease. The crude protein content decreased with increasing storage time. The long time of storage did not affect the in vitro digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. the impact of feeding techniques was investigated. Applying the whole feed diet during the growing phase and up until the early fattening phase, and then concluding with concentrate and forage, did not significantly affect 1) SCF, 2) TMRGSCF

The Effect of Guanidinoacetic Acid Addition on In Vitro Rumen Fermentation Characteristics and Gas Production of Early- and Late-Stage Sheep-Fattening Diets

This study explores whether guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) addition can regulate nutrient degradability, rumen fermentation characteristics, and gas composition in two sheep-fattening diets. A 2 × 8 factorial in vitro culture was examined to determine the effects of GAA addition at the following levels of 0%, 0.03%, 0.05%, 0.07%, 0.09%, 0.11%, 0.13%, and 0.15% of two total mixed rations (T1 diet: early fattening stage diet; T2 diet: late fattening stage diet). After 72 h in vitro incubation of two diets with mixed rumen liquid obtained from six rumen-cannulated lambs, the T2 diet exhibited higher dry matter (DM) digestibility, higher cumulative gas production at 72 h (GP72), higher asymptotic gas production(A), and longer the time at which half of A is reached (C). However, it exhibited a lower acetic acid and a lower ratio of acetate to propionate than the diet of T1. A quadratic increase occurred in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility, with a maximum point occurring at the 0.09% GAA group. The gas production kinetic result indicated that increasing the level of GAA addition resulted mainly in an increase of GP72 and A, with the maximum point occurring at 0.09% for the T1 diet and 0.07–0.09% for the T2 diet. Moreover, the levels of GAA addition did not affect pH, the proportion of any of the volatile acid, or gas composition, but when the levels of GAA addition were increased, the microbial crude protein (MCP), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) content exhibited a quadratic relationship. The highest MCP contents were seen in the 0.07%, 0.09%, and 0.11% groups, while NH3-N and TVFA were in the 0.07% group. In summary, the appropriate level of GAA addition in early and late fattening stage diets ranged from 0.07% to 0.11%.

Investigation of the Formal Pathogenesis of Green Liver Discoloration in Organically Reared Female Bronze Turkeys (Melleagris gallovapo).

Green liver discoloration (GL) in fattening turkeys is suspected to be a multifactorial disease complex with a compromised immune system as the key factor. This study aimed to identify the formal pathogenesis of GL and to investigate possible nutritional influences. A total of 360 Bronze turkey hens out of 10 flocks from 5 fattening farms were necropsied for detection of GL during 2 consecutive trials on 2 examination dates each (70th to 75th and 120th to 127th day of fattening, respectively). At each examination date, hematological and clinical chemistry analyses, as well as determination of vitamin E and selenium concentrations in the liver, were carried out in 6 hens with (if applicable) and 6 hens without GL, representing a total of 130 individuals. Raw nutrient, energy, amino acid, bulk and trace element, and vitamin E and D3 concentrations were analyzed in feed samples for each of the five feeding phases during each trial. The results of the hematological analyses, clinical chemistry analyses, and determination of vitamin E and selenium liver concentrations were statistically evaluated between: (i) individuals with and without GL, and (ii) individuals from flocks with and without turkeys with GL. At both fattening stages, the occurrence of GL was characterized by an inflammatory reaction. A subacute inflammatory reaction was detected in the early fattening stage, indicating a viral cause of the disease. In the late fattening stage, acute inflammation indicated a bacterial cause of the disease. The results of the feed sample analyses of the different flocks were generally quite homogeneous. However, the nutrient and energy content of the feed likely contribute to GL pathogenesis.

Heat Stress Effects on Physiological and Blood Parameters, and Behavior in Early Fattening Stage of Beef Steers.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of heat stress (HS) on physiological, blood, and behavioral parameters, according to the temperature-humidity index (THI), in beef steers. Twelve Korean native beef steers (342.7 ± 13.81 days old, body weight (BW) of 333.0 ± 18.53 kg) were used in this experiment. Beef steers were randomly distributed into three homogenized groups (four beef steers each) for 14 days, namely, threshold (THI = 64-71), mild-moderate (THI = 72-79), and severe (THI = 80-87). Feed and water intake were recorded daily. Physiological parameters, including heart rate and rectal temperature, and behavioral patterns (standing and lying down) were measured weekly. Blood was sampled every week to analyze hormones, heat shock protein (HSP) levels, metabolites, and hematological parameters. All data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis. Beef steers exposed to severe THI had significantly increased (p < 0.001) water intake, heart rate, and rectal temperature compared to the threshold and mild-moderate THI beef steers. Additionally, increased blood cortisol (p < 0.001), HSP70 (p < 0.001), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (p = 0.014), and time spent standing (p < 0.001) were observed in beef steers after exposure to severe THI compared to beef steers in the threshold and mild-moderate THI groups. However, dry matter intake, blood glucose, and non-esterified fatty acids were not different among the THI groups. In conclusion, heart rate, rectal temperature, blood cortisol, HSP70, BUN, and time spent standing were closely associated with severe HS conditions in beef steers. These phenomena indicated that beef steers exposed to HS modulated their behavior and blood parameters, as well as their physiological response, to maintain homeostasis.

Effects of Feed Composition in Different Growth Stages on Rumen Fermentation and Microbial Diversity of Hanwoo Steers.

Simple SummaryRuminants are a major source of greenhouse gases and environmental pollution, which are exacerbated by excessive feeding because excess nutrients are excreted. Since digestion in ruminants is aided by both microorganisms and digestive enzymes, information on gut microbiota in ruminants is vital for assessing the adequate amount of feed supply. The growth of Hanwoo steer is divided into three stages, and specific nutrients are provided in each stage. Growth stages are a major factor influencing rumen fermentation by microorganisms. In this study, changes in fermentation characteristics and microbial community during the growth stages were investigated. Our findings show that there were differences in the levels of total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and valerate. In addition, we found that the relative content of some bacteria and fungi changed with the growth stage. This study improves our understanding of rumen fermentation and changes in the gut microbiota during the various growth stages of Hanwoo steer.Ruminants are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, and information on ruminant fermentation and microorganisms is essential to understand ruminant digestion, which is associated with environmental pollution. The present study investigated rumen fermentation and microbial diversity according to the three different growth stages of four Hanwoo steers: growing (12 months, G), early fattening (18 months, EF), and late fattening (25 months, LF). No significant differences were observed in rumen pH and ammonia nitrogen among growth stages. Total volatile fatty acids were significantly higher and propionate and valerate significantly lower in G than in EF and LF (p < 0.05). Ten bacterial phyla were detected, including Firmicutes (47.5–53.5%) and Bacteroidetes (28.4–31.7%), which accounted for 79.2–82.3% of the total bacteria. Prevotella accounted for the highest proportion (31.6–42.6%) of all bacteria in this study but did not differ significantly among the different growth stages. Metaprevotella abundance was significantly higher in G than in the other treatments (p < 0.05). In addition, Paraprevotella tended to be higher in LF than in the other treatments (p = 0.056). Given the differences in the genera of microorganisms with relatively low abundance, additional experiments are needed to determine the effect on fermentation.

Effects of feeding high-energy diet on growth performance, blood parameters, and carcass traits in Hanwoo steers

ObjectiveOur study aimed to investigate the effects of a 2% increase in dietary total digestible nutrients (TDN) value during the growing (7 to 12 mo of age) and fattening (13 to 30 mo of age) period of Hanwoo steers.MethodsTwo hundred and twenty Hanwoo steers were assigned to one of two treatments: i) a control group (basal TDN, BTDN, n = 111 steers, growing = 70.5%, early fattening = 71.0%, late fattening = 74.0%) or high TDN (HTDN, n = 109 steers, growing = 72.6%, early = 73.1%, late = 76.2%). Growth performance, carcass traits, blood parameters, and gene expression of longissimus dorsi (LD) (7, 18, and 30 mo) were quantified.ResultsSteers on the BTDN diets had increased (p≤0.02) DMI throughout the feeding trial compared to HTDN, but gain did not differ appreciably. A greater proportion of cattle in HTDN received Korean quality grade 1 (82%) or greater compared to BTDN (77%), while HTDN had a greater yield grade (29%) than BTDN (20%). Redness (a*) of LD muscle was improved (p = 0.021) in steers fed HTDN. Feeding the HTDN diet did not alter blood parameters. Steers fed HTDN diet increased (p = 0.015) the proportion of stearic acid and tended to alter linoleic acid. Overall, saturated, unsaturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids of LD muscle were not impacted by the HTDN treatment. A treatment by age interaction was noted for mRNA expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC) IIA, IIX, and stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD) (p≤0.026). No treatment effect was detected on gene expression from LD muscle biopsies at 7, 18, and 30 mo of age; however, an age effect was detected for all variables measured (p≤0.001).ConclusionOur results indicated that feeding HTDN diet could improve overall quality grade while minimum effects were noted in gene expression, blood parameters, and growing performance. Cattle performance prediction in the feedlot is a critical decision-making tool for optimal planning of cattle fattening and these data provide both benchmark physiological parameters and growth performance measures for Hanwoo cattle feeding enterprises.

Early fattening and improving feeding quality of Kejobong goats could reduce methane production and improve meat production

An experimental study was carried out to evaluate the implication of early fattening of Kejobong goats by improving feeding quality on methane production and meat production. Sixteen goats (8 young and 8 mature) were raised for 4 months study period. Nested design was used in this study, with young and mature as a nest factor, and diet (G7C3: 70% grass and 30% concentrate and G3C7: 30% grass and 70% concentrate) as the treatments. The main parameters observed were DMI, BWG, carcass (CWG) and meat weight gain (MWG), and methane emission. The results showed, the young goat fed G3C7 was higher than that fed G7C3 in DMI. The BWG’s of goats fed G3C7 were higher than those fed G7C3, but there was no difference between ages in BWG. The FCR of young goat fed G3C7 was lower than that fed G7C3. The DMI of mature goat was higher than young goat, but there were no differences between the ages in DM digestibility, carcass weight and meat weight gain. The young and mature goats fed G3C7 was significantly lower than that of G7C3 in methane emissions per unit of BWG (0.28 vs 0.40 and 0.36 vs 0.53, respectively), in methane emissions per unit CWG (0.60 vs 0.93 and 0.79 vs 1.47, respectively), and methane emission per unit MWG (0.89 vs 1.42 and 1.16 vs 2.19, respectively). It can be concluded that fattening young Kejobong goats by improving feed quality is more environmentally friendly than fattening the mature ones.

Integrated Analysis of lncRNA and mRNA in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Ningxiang Pig

Simple SummaryThis study shows the transcription profiles and the functional network in lncRNA and mRNA in the subcutaneous adipose tissue of Ningxiang piglets in four stages of development (piglets, nursery pigs, early fattening, and late fattening). A total of 2872 novel lncRNAs have now been determined. A total of 10,084 DEmRNAs and 931 DElncRNAs were determined. Interestingly, most DEmRNAs were up-regulated in the piglet stage and, in contrast, DElncRNAs were up-regulated in the late fattening stage. A complicated interaction between mRNAs and lncRNAs was determined via STEM and WGCNA, demonstrating that lncRNAs are an essential regulatory component in mRNAs. Modules 2 and 5 shows a similar mode of transcriptions for both mRNA and lncRNA, which are mainly involved in steroid biosynthesis, glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, metabolic pathways, and glycerolipid metabolism. The transcription levels of mRNAs and lncRNAs for both modules were higher in the early and late fattening stage. This may be explained by the active fatty acids, sterols, steroids, and lipid-related metabolic activity in the subcutaneous adipose tissue during the early and late fattening stage.Ningxiang pigs, a Chinese bred pig known for its tender meat and high quality unsaturated fatty acids. This study discovers the transcription profiles and functional networks in long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Subcutaneous adipose tissue was collected from piglet, nursery pig, early fattening, and late fattening stage of Ningxiang piglets, and lncRNA and mRNA transcription of each stage was profiled. A total of 339,204,926 (piglet), 315,609,246 (nursery), 266,798,202 (early fattening), and 343,740,308 (late fattening) clean reads were generated, and 2872 novel lncRNAs were identified. Additionally, 10,084 differential mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and 931 differential lncRNAs were determined. Most DEmRNAs were up-regulated in the piglet stage, while they were down-regulated in late fattening stage. A complicated interaction between mRNAs and lncRNAs was identified via STEM and WGCNA, demonstrated that lncRNAs are a significant regulatory component in mRNAs. The findings showed that modules 2 and 5 have a similar mode of transcription for both mRNA and lncRNA, and were mainly participated in steroid biosynthesis, glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, metabolic pathways, and glycerolipid metabolism. The mRNAs and lncRNAs transcription levels of both modules was higher in the early and late fattening stage, which may be due to the active activity of the metabolism in relation to fatty acids, sterols, steroids, and lipids in the subcutaneous adipose tissue during the early and late fattening stage. These findings could be expected to result in further research of the functional properties of lncRNA from subcutaneous adipose tissue at different stages of development in Ningxiang pigs.

Dietary Modified Cassava Chip and Corn Seed: Effect on Growth Performance, Rumen Production, and Blood glucose and Insulin in Early Fattening Beef Bulls

Effects of feeding modified cassava chip and corn seed as energy source inclusion in diet were investigated on growth performance, rumen fermentation, and blood metabolites in early fattening bulls. Thirty-six 1-year-old Charolais crossbred bulls with initial weight 270 ± 50 kg were randomly assigned into 6 groups with different experimental rations as cassava-based concentrates including non-modified cassava chip (Cass-Con), with 15 % of alkaline-treated cassava chip (Cass-Alkaline), with 15 % of steam-treated cassava chip (Cass-Steam) and corn-based concentrates including non-modified corn seed (Corn-Con), with 15 % of alkaline-treated corn seed (Corn-Alkaline), and with 15 % of steam-treated corn seed (Corn-Steam), according to completely randomized design (CRD). Results showed that feed intake and digestibility were not significantly different among treatments, while digestible dry matter and organic matter intake of Cass-Steam and Corn-Alkaline were higher than those of the other diets (P &lt; 0.05). Ruminal pH post-feeding was highest in Corn-Alkaline and lowest in Cass-Con (P &lt; 0.05). Blood glucose was similar among treatments. However, blood insulin at 4 h post-feeding was higher in Cass-Steam, Corn-Alkaline, and Corn-Steam than in the others. Blood insulin in bulls fed corn-based concentrate was higher than in bulls fed cassava-based concentrate (P &lt; 0.01). Body weight gain and average daily gain were significantly higher (P &lt; 0.05), while feed conversion ratio was lower in Cass-Steam, Corn-Alkaline, and Corn-Steam as compared with in Cass-Con, Cass-Alkaline and Corn-Con. Results indicated that using a modified energy source can improve growth performance in early fattening beef bulls. An appropriate method to modify cassava chip was steam method, while alkaline method for corn seed was superior.

Longitudinal monitoring of multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli on broiler chicken fattening farms in Shandong, China

The extensive use of antibiotics has, in recent years, caused antimicrobial resistance and multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli to gradually develop into a worldwide problem. These resistant E. coli could be transmitted to humans through animal products and animal feces in the environment, thereby creating a problem for bacterial treatment for humans and animals and resulting in a public health issue. Monitoring the resistance of E. coli throughout the broiler fattening period is therefore of great significance for both the poultry industry and public health. In this longitudinal study, samples were taken from 6 conventional broiler fattening farms in Shandong Province, China, at 3 different times within 1 fattening period. The overall isolation rate of E. coli was 53.04% (375/707). Antibiotic resistance was very common in the E. coli isolated from these farms, and differed for different antibiotics, with ampicillin having the highest rate (92.86%) and cefoxitin the lowest (10.12%). Multidrug resistance was as high as 91.07%. More importantly, both the resistance rate of E. coli to the different drugs and the detection rate of drug resistance genes increased over time. The mobile colistin resistance (mcr-1) gene was detected in 24.40% of the strains, and these strains often carried other drug resistance genes, such as those conferring aminoglycoside, β-lactamase, tetracycline, and sulfonamide resistance. Antimicrobial resistance and drug resistance genes in E. coli were least common in the early fattening stage. The individual detection rates of sul1, sul3, aacC4, aphA3, and mcr-1 were significantly lower (P < 0.05) for the early fattening stage than for the middle and late stages. The rational use of antibiotics, in conjunction with the improvement of the breeding environment during the entire broiler fattening cycle, will be helpful in the development of the poultry industry and the protection of public health.

Effects of cold temperature and fat supplementation on growth performance and rumen and blood parameters in early fattening stage of Korean cattle steers

We investigated the effects of cold ambient temperatures and the supplementation of rumen-protected fat (RPF) on the growth performance, rumen fermentation parameters, and blood metabolic parameters of Korean cattle steers during the early fattening stage. Twenty Korean cattle steers (body weight = 356.5 ± 3.72 kg, age = 16.8 ± 0.34 months) were divided into two groups: 10 steers were fed a conventional concentrate (control), and 10 steers were fed a concentrate supplemented with 8 g/kg RPF (treatment). Steers were fed a concentrate at 1.6% body weight and 3 kg tall fescue hay daily for 12 weeks in 2016: January 8 to February 2 (P1), February 3 to March 3 (P2), and March 4 to April 1 (P3). Body weight was measured, and blood and rumen fluid were collected four times from each steer: at the start of the experiment, and then at 4-week intervals. The mean indoor temperatures during P1 (−7.37 ℃) and P2 (–2.96℃) were lower (P < 0.001) than the mean P3 temperature (6.22 ℃). These lower temperatures were within the range that causes mild to moderate cold stress (CS) in other cattle breeds. By contrast, the mean indoor temperature during P3 is considered thermoneutral. The average daily gain (P = 0.39 and P = 0.16) and gain-to-feed ratio (P = 0.26 and P = 0.57) were not affected by RPF supplementation or time-period. Total dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber intakes per body weight were higher (all P < 0.001) in colder P1 or P2 compared to other time periods, but these variables were not affected (P ≥ 0.31) by RPF supplementation, except ether extract intake. Ruminal total VFA concentrations were higher (P = 0.001) in a colder January than in other months, but these were not affected (P = 0.26) by RPF supplementation. The ruminal propionate proportion was higher (P < 0.001) in a colder January than in other months, whereas the butyrate proportion was lower (P = 0.01). Serum triglyceride (P = 0.007), total cholesterol (P = 0.001), and high-density lipoprotein (P = 0.03) concentrations were lower during colder months. RPF supplementation increased (P = 0.008) serum cholesterol concentrations. Our results indicate that mild to moderate CS may not affect Korean cattle, as cattle growth performance was not affected by colder temperatures, although concentrate and forage intakes were increased, and some changes in blood metabolic and ruminal parameters were observed. The 8 g/kg RPF supplementation did not improve growth performance under cold conditions, although it did not decrease intake and ruminal total VFA concentration.

Nitrogen partitioning and isotopic discrimination are affected by age and dietary protein content in growing lambs

It is difficult to separate an age-dependent fall in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE; N balance/N intake) in growing ruminants from a progressively decrease in animal protein requirements over time. This study examined the effect of dietary protein content on N partitioning, digestibility and N isotopic discrimination between the animal and its diet (Δ15Nanimal-diet) evaluated at two different fattening periods (early v. late). Twenty-four male Romane lambs (age: 19 ± 4.0 days; BW: 8.3 ± 1.39 kg) were equally allocated to three dietary CP treatments (15%, 17% and 20% CP on a DM basis). Lambs were reared with their mothers until weaning, thereafter housed in individual pens until slaughter (45 kg BW). During the post-weaning period, lambs were allocated twice (early fattening (30 days post-weaning) and late fattening (60 days post-weaning)) to metabolic cages for digestibility and N balance study. When diet CP content increased, the average daily gain of lambs increased (P < 0.05) while the age at slaughter decreased (P = 0.01), but no effect was observed on feed efficiency (P > 0.10). Diet CP content had limited effect on lamb carcass traits. Higher fibre digestibility was observed at the early v. late fattening period (P < 0.001). The N intake and the urinary N excretion increased when diet CP content increased (P < 0.001) and when shifting from early to late fattening period (P < 0.001). Faecal N excretion (P = 0.14) and N balance (P > 0.10) were not affected by diet CP content. Nitrogen digestibility increased (P < 0.001) as the diet CP content increased and on average it was greater at late v. early fattening period (P = 0.02). The NUE decreased (P = 0.001) as the diet CP content increased and as the lamb became older (P < 0.001). However, the age-dependent fall in NUE observed was lower at high v. low dietary CP content (CP × age interaction; P = 0.04). The Δ15Nanimal-diet was positively correlated (P < 0.05) with N intake (r = 0.59), excretion of faecal N (r = 0.41), urinary N (r = 0.69) and total manure N (r = 0.64), while negatively correlated with NUE (r = −0.57). Overall, the experiment showed NUE was lower in older lambs and when lambs were fed high diet CP content, and that Δ15Nanimal-diet was a useful indicator not only for NUE but also for urinary N excretion, which is a major environmental pollution factor on farm.

Study on early fattening in sheep as a strategy to reduce nitrogen emissions

Nitrogen is one of the contributors of greenhouse gases (GHG). In ruminants, more than 60% nitrogen was excreted in feces and urine during the animal life. Therefore, the faster the animal can be slaughtered the less nitrogen excreted. The aimed of this study to evaluate the decrease of nitrogen emissions by using early fattening in sheep after weaned. Thirty Thin Tailed lambs (aged 4 months; 13.70± 1.93 kg of BW) were used in this study. The feed was pelleted complete feed that contained 14% - 18% crude protein (CP) and 60% - 70% total digestible nutrients (TDN). The nitrogen emission was analyzed from urine and feces. Feed, feces, and urine were collected during 7 days using the total collection method. Nitrogen (N) was analyzed using Kjeldahl method. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results showed that lambs fattened during 3 months had 24.32 kg of slaughter weight, with an average daily gain (ADG) was 126.4 g/d, which is in traditional farmers in Indonesia required at least 12 months to achieve 24 kg of slaughter weight. It indicated that early fattening can be faster 5 months than that of the traditional farmer. In this study, the daily N emissions from feces and urine were 13.43 g/d, the emissions of N2O was 0.27 g/d. Those results could be calculated total emissions of N and N2O between early fattening (7 months) and traditional farmer (12 months). The total emissions of N were 2.82 kg vs 4.83 kg, N2O; 56 g vs 96 g, respectively. Based on the result, it could be concluded that shortening rearing period in sheep can reduce the emissions of N and N2O until 41%.

PSX-32 The rumen microbiome of Hanwoo steers from the growing to fattening stages.

The rumen microbiome contributes significantly to plant material digestion and rumen fermentation. However, little is known about the rumen microbiome composition at different life stages in the Hanwoo cattle breed, native to Korea. Therefore, we aimed to characterize the rumen microbiome in the growing, early fattening, and late fattening stages of Hanwoo steers. Twelve Hanwoo steers were raised from the growing to fattening stage and were fed different diets during the 3 stages. Rumen samples were collected from the steers during the 3 stages (36 samples = 12 animals x 3 stages). The rumen microbiome composition was then analyzed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing on the MiSeq platform. In total, 2,939,222 16S rRNA gene sequences from 36 rumen samples with at least 60,000 sequences were analyzed. Bacteroidetes was the most dominant phylum in all 3 stages and was greater (P 0.05) among the 3 stage groups. Proteobacteria was the third dominant phylum and was greater (P < 0.05) in the early fattening stage than in the growing stage. At the genus level, relative abundances of Prevotella, Succiniclasticum, Selenomonas, and Anaerovibrio were greater (P < 0.05) in the late fattening stage than in the other 2 stages, whereas those of Treponema, Coprococcus, Anaeroplasma, and Fibrobacter were greater (P < 0.05) in the growing stage than in the other 2 stages. Relative abundances of Ruminococcus and Butyrivibrio were greater (P < 0.05) in the early fattening stage than in the other 2 stages. This study indicates that the rumen microbiome composition in Hanwoo steers is affected by growing stage and diet. Key Words:

Manipulating Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Hanwoo Heifers by Dietary Means during Growing and Early Fattening Period

This study was conducted to improve growth performance of Hanwoo heifer and to produce high quality of meat with dietary means during growing and early fattening period. Particularly, additional energy diet to relieve estrus stress was main purpose in this study. The results of in vitro rumen fermentation indicated that there was no negative effect by additional energy diet as treatments. In the feeding trial, twenty Hanwoo heifers(average 10 months age) were allocated and distributed into two treatments in randomized block design based on body weight. There were three growth stages such as growing, early fattening and late fattening periods in this feeding program, respectively. In growing stage, there were two treatments consisting of only total mixed ration(TMR) as a control and TMR with additional energy treatment. The experimental diets were fed twice a day, and water and mineral were freely accessed. In additional energy treatment, 500 g of concentrate diet was fed daily to relieve estrus stress due to obese with high energy intake. Not outstandingly differences were found across the treatments during entiretrial period. While, unexpectedly greater feed conversion ratio in treatment compared to the control was found during late fattening period. It seems that the blood cortisol decreased with addition energy supplementation compared with the control during trail period. Carcass characteristics including carcass weight, back fat thickness, marbling score, meat color, fat color, maturity and texture were not significantly different each other. Rib-eye area, however, was greater in the control compared to the treatment(p<0.05). In addition, it appears that yield index was tended to be greater in the control. In conclusion, it is suggested that additional energy supplementation to Hanwoo heifer could get a potential in improving meat quality and relieving estrus stress.

한방생균제가 한우의 체중, 혈액성상, 면역성 및 육량·육질에 미치는 영향

This study was a report on 60 heads of Hanwoo steers(5 treatments <TEX>${\times}$</TEX> 4 heads <TEX>${\times}$</TEX> 3 repeats). Their start weights were <TEX>$361.2{\pm}14.39kg$</TEX> to <TEX>$380.5{\pm}27.33kg$</TEX>; 12.7 to 13.6 months of age. The aim was to investigate the effect of herbal probiotic supplementation on the weight, blood composition, meat quality and immunity in beef. In case of body weight gain, con. 1 plot(183.8 kg) in the early fattening stage, T3 plot(115.1 kg) in the middle fattening stage, and T2 plot(163.3 kg) in the late fattening stage significantly increased(p<0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the blood content of T-Cho and IgG: con. 1 plot and T1 plot in the early fattening stage, T3 plot and T2 plots in the middle fattening stage, and con. 2 plot and T1~T3 plots in the late fattening stage had higher blood content than that of other treatment plots (p<0.05). In addition, the carcass weight was highest in the T1 plot and T2 plot among the total treatment plots(p<0.05). However, no statistical significant difference was observed in the different treatments; all individual treatment plots(T1~T3 plots) were somewhat higher than the control plots(con. 1~con. 2 plots) with respect to the carcass quantity and carcass quality. Combining and analyzing all results revealed that the dietary addition of herbal probiotics for Hanwoo steers had a positive effect on the improvement of weight, amount of meat, meat quality and immunity.

Associations between the dominance status and sexual development, skin lesions or feeding behaviour of intact male pigs

In boars, social relationships could influence pubertal development and feeding behaviour. The objectives of the present study were to determine the relationships between behaviour (agonistic, mounting and feeding behaviours), plasma sex steroids (oestradiol, testosterone) and fat androstenone.A total of 270 Pietrain x Large White boars, derived from four distinct genotypes were used. They were raised in groups of 11–12 pigs/pen. Animals were observed for about two times 10h/day at the beginning or about 6h at the end of fattening. Agonistic (fighting, hitting, biting, threatening, chasing) and sexual (mounting) behaviours were counted in early fattening shortly after a social mixing (for 177 of the 270 animals) and in late fattening after several weeks of social stability. Skin lesions were counted in the same periods and on carcasses. Data obtained from electronic feeders were used to determine the number and duration of meals, and the feed intake over 96-h periods in the middle and at the end of fattening. At the end of fattening, blood was sampled to measure oestradiol and testosterone. At slaughter, fat was collected to measure androstenone. Using the agonistic behaviours, a dominance index was calculated (DRrank).As expected, numbers of skin lesions and agonistic acts were higher in early fattening (P<0.0001) whereas that of mounting acts was lower in early than in late fattening (P<0.05). The feeding characteristics (r=0.25 to 0.39) were significantly correlated between ages, whereas numbers of mountings (r=0.18), of skin lesions (r=0.05) and agonistic acts (r=−0.05) were not. The number of agonistic acts was significantly correlated with that of mountings only in early fattening (r=0.38). At both ages, no difference between dominance groups was observed for feeding characteristics. This was probably related to low competition between boars for access to feed. Dominant boars had a higher concentration of androstenone in fat than subordinates (P<0.05) but no difference was observed for plasma steroids. An active role of androstenone in controlling social behaviour but not reproductive function may explain this phenomenon.