Trace Mineral Supplementation Research Articles

Integrated transcriptome and multi-tissue mineral analyses of healthy stocker cattle fed complexed or inorganic trace mineral supplement

Trace mineral supplementation is common in beef cattle pro­duction, however the impact of supplementation on inflamma­tory signaling and immunity in high-risk cattle remain unclear. We employed high-throughput RNA sequencing and multi-tissue mineral analyses to identify specific genomic mecha­nisms and spatial mineral trends related to ad libitum mineral supplementation.

Effects of injectable trace minerals on the inflammatory cytokines’ response to vaccination in dairy calves

Trace mineral supplementation concurrent with the bovine respiratory diseases complex (BRDC) vaccine boosts antibody production and leukocyte proliferation. However, the mecha­nism underlying this effect is not well understood. On the other hand, cytokines response post-vaccination is an important driver of both humoral and cellular immunity. Therefore, we hypothesized that trace mineral supplementation may improve BRD vaccine immunogenicity and effectiveness by modulating inflammatory cytokines in dairy calves. Our objective was to characterize the effects of injectable trace minerals (ITM) on the cytokines response to the BRD modified-live virus (MLV) vaccine in post-weaning dairy calves.

Effect of prostaglandin alone and in combination with trace minerals on the follicular and luteal dynamics, estrus response and pregnancy in sub-estrus buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis).

Sub-estrus is a condition when buffaloes do not display behavioural estrus signs, despite being in estrus and causes a delay in conception and increases the service period. The present study describes the effect of synthetic prostaglandin (PGF2α) alone and in combination with trace minerals on the follicular and corpus luteum (CL) dynamics, serum estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentration correlating estrus response and pregnancy outcome in sub-estrus buffaloes during the breeding season. A total of 50 sub-estrus buffaloes, identified through ultrasonography (USG) examination, were randomly allocated into three groups, viz. T1 (Synthetic PGF2α, Inj. Cloprostenol 500 μg, i.m, n = 17), T2 (Synthetic PGF2α + Trace mineral supplementation, Inj. Stimvet 1 mL/100 kg body weight, i.m., n = 17) and control (untreated; n = 16). Following treatment, 100% of sub-estrus buffaloes were induced estrus in the T1 and T2 groups, while only 18.75% were induced in the control. The CL diameter and serum P4 concentration were significantly lower at post-treatment, whereas the pre-ovulatory follicle (POF) size and serum E2 concentration were significantly higher in the T1 and T2 groups as compared to the control (p < .05). The buffaloes of the T2 group had a greater proportion of moderate intensities estrus than those of T1. Moreover, the proportion of buffaloes conceived in the T1 and T2 were 41.2% and 52.95%, respectively. The larger POF diameter and higher serum E2 concentration were associated with intense intensity estrus and higher conception rate (66.7%) in sub-estrus buffaloes. Similarly, CL regression rate, POF size and serum E2 concentration were relatively higher in the buffaloes conceived as compared to those not conceived. It is concluded that synthetic PGF2α in combination with trace minerals induces moderate to intense intensities estrus in a greater proportion of sub-estrus buffaloes and increases the conception rate during the breeding season. Moreover, behavioural estrus attributes correlating follicle and luteal morphometry, serum E2 and P4 concentration could be used to optimise the breeding time for augmenting the conception rate in sub-estrus buffaloes.

Sustainable production of extracellular polymeric substances and iron or copper complex from glutinous rice processing wastewater

Essential trace minerals play vital roles in maintaining human and animal health. However, an overdose of the existing inorganic trace minerals is prone to induce detrimental effects that outweigh positive benefits. In this study, an extracellular polymeric substances (EPS)-producing bacterium, identified as Bacillus licheniformis CCTCC M2020298, was isolated from marine using glutinous rice processing wastewater as enrichment medium. The EPS yield of Bacillus licheniformis CCTCC M2020298 could reach 8.62 g/L by using glutinous rice-processing wastewater containing medium. Furthermore, the potential of the EPS as a carrier for synthesizing EPS-iron (Fe) and EPS-copper (Cu) complex was explored. The results showed that the optimum condition for the synthesis EPS-Fe were the reaction temperature 70°C, pH 8.5–9.0 and mass ratio of EPS to trisodium citrate 2:1. The iron content of EPS-Fe reached 77.4 mg/g. Under the same condition, the copper content of EPS-Cu reached 90.7 mg/g. The elemental composition, functional groups and valence state of the mineral elements of EPS-Fe and EPS-Cu were well characterized. The EPS-Fe and EPS-Cu exhibited antioxidant activity in scavenging ·OH, DPPH and ·O2− free radicals, thereby leading to reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis levels in human colonic epithelial cells in vitro. They also inhibited the proliferation of mouse hepatocellular carcinoma H22 and the growth of intestinal pathogens in vitro. This study provided an effective avenue for EPS production from glutinous rice processing wastewater and proved the potential of EPS-Fe and EPS-Cu complexes as a new-type comprehensive essential trace mineral supplement.

Study of the impact of organic minerals on spermatozoal gene expression in Osmanabadi bucks

Sperm transcripts aside from providing genetic material have an eminent role in post-fertilization events and embryonic development. The current study was carried out to study the gene expression in Osmanabadi buck (Capra hircus) supplemented with organic minerals. Organic minerals alone or in combination with different concentrations were fed to the treatment groups (T2- Zn 20 mg, T3- Zn 40 mg, T4- Zn 60 mg, T5- Cu 12.5 mg, T6- Cu 25 mg, T7- Cu 37.5 mg, T8- Zn 20 mg + Cu 12.5 mg, T9- Zn 40 mg + Cu 25 mg, T10- Zn 60 mg + Cu 37.5 mg) along with the concentration mixture and roughages; whereas control (T1) group was fed concentrate mixture and roughages. The sperm samples were processed for gene expression studies of Ras Homolog Family Member A (RHOA), Mesoderm Specific Transcript (MEST), Nucleoside diphosphate-linked moiety X motif 6 (NUDT6), Protamine 1 (PRM1), Protamine 2 (PRM2) and Heat shock protein 90 alpha family class A member 1 (HSP90AA) using qRT-PCR and the protein-protein interaction analysis was carried out through String database version 11.0. Supplementation of trace minerals has enhanced the gene expression at a significant level (P&lt;0.05) in the supplemented groups. The expression of MEST, RHOA, and PRM1 was higher in Cu 25-supplemented groups; whereas, NUDT6 in Zn 20, PRM2 and HSP90AA in Zn 40 showed higher expressions. Osmanabadi bucks supplemented with Cu 25 mg have shown promising results in the present and earlier studies so it can be concluded that the field-level application of Cu 25 mg would lead to promising results.

131 Selenium-form effects on hepatic function and selenoprotein mRNAs in the early pregnant heifer

Abstract Selenium (Se) is an integral component of selenoproteins, with effective scavenging of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) by selenoproteins necessary to protect cells from oxidative stress. Due to the presence of Se-deficient soils in large portions of the US, including the southeast cow-calf producing states, grazed forages are insufficient in this trace mineral and dietary supplementation is recommended. We have investigated the effects of providing Se in an inorganic form (ISe, the industry standard) versus a 1:1 mixture (MIX) of ISe to organic Se (OSe), and have observed significant effects on luteal function, endometrial function and conceptus development. Herein, our objective was to determine the effect of form of Se on 1) clinical markers of total antioxidant capacity and liver function, and 2) the expression of mRNAs encoding selenoproteins in the liver. Following consecutive 45-d periods of Se-depletion then repletion, Angus-cross heifers were assigned to 90 d of treatment with a vitamin-mineral mix containing 35-ppm Se as ISe or MIX. Heifers were then inseminated at estrus (d 0) with serum collected at d 0, 7 and 17 to quantify albumin, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Liver samples were collected at euthanasia on d 17 (n = 6 pregnant heifers per treatment) for the quantification of the relative abundance of 25 selenoprotein mRNAs using qPCR. There was no effect of treatment on circulating albumin (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Hepatocyte-secreted albumin is the most prominent antioxidant in the circulation, with this result suggesting that albumin-driven redox capacity is not sensitive to the form of Se supplied to achieve a Se-adequate status. Systemic concentrations of BHBA and AST were increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in MIX- versus ISe-treated heifers at d 7 and 17 of pregnancy. Circulating BHBA is considered a primary indicator of liver function and the hepatic response to increased metabolic demands, whereas increased AST is conventionally considered a marker for liver damage. These results suggest increased demands on the liver in MIX versus ISe-treated heifers, however not at the level indicative of dysfunction or disease. Additionally, the serum concentration of urea nitrogen was quantified and determined to be reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) at estrus in MIX- versus ISe-treated heifers, indicative of form-induced changes in hepatic nitrogen metabolism. Targeted qPCR analysis to determine the effect of treatment on the abundance of encoding selenoproteins by mRNA, including the iodothyronine deiodinases, glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases, was largely unaffected by treatment, with only the abundance of mRNA encoding Selenoprotein V tending to differ (P = 0.07) with treatment. Overall, this study revealed form of Se-effects on markers of hepatic health and function, as well as blood urea nitrogen, but did not reveal form of Se-effects on the expression of hepatic selenoproteins mRNAs.

Enhancing bovine immune, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses with vitamins, rumen-protected amino acids, and trace minerals to prevent periparturient mastitis.

Mastitis, the inflammatory condition of mammary glands, has been closely associated with immune suppression and imbalances between antioxidants and free radicals in cattle. During the periparturient period, dairy cows experience negative energy balance (NEB) due to metabolic stress, leading to elevated oxidative stress and compromised immunity. The resulting abnormal regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), along with increased non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) are the key factors associated with suppressed immunity thereby increases susceptibility of dairy cattle to infections, including mastitis. Metabolic diseases such as ketosis and hypocalcemia indirectly contribute to mastitis vulnerability, exacerbated by compromised immune function and exposure to physical injuries. Oxidative stress, arising from disrupted balance between ROS generation and antioxidant availability during pregnancy and calving, further contributes to mastitis susceptibility. Metabolic stress, marked by excessive lipid mobilization, exacerbates immune depression and oxidative stress. These factors collectively compromise animal health, productive efficiency, and udder health during periparturient phases. Numerous studies have investigated nutrition-based strategies to counter these challenges. Specifically, amino acids, trace minerals, and vitamins have emerged as crucial contributors to udder health. This review comprehensively examines their roles in promoting udder health during the periparturient phase. Trace minerals like copper, selenium, and calcium, as well as vitamins; have demonstrated significant impacts on immune regulation and antioxidant defense. Vitamin B12 and vitamin E have shown promise in improving metabolic function and reducing oxidative stress followed by enhanced immunity. Additionally, amino acids play a pivotal role in maintaining cellular oxidative balance through their involvement in vital biosynthesis pathways. In conclusion, addressing periparturient mastitis requires a holistic understanding of the interplay between metabolic stress, immune regulation, and oxidative balance. The supplementation of essential amino acids, trace minerals, and vitamins emerges as a promising avenue to enhance udder health and overall productivity during this critical phase. This comprehensive review underscores the potential of nutritional interventions in mitigating periparturient bovine mastitis and lays the foundation for future research in this domain.

Supplemental trace minerals as complexed or inorganic sources for beef cattle during the receiving period.

To investigate effects of inorganic or complexed trace mineral source (zinc, copper, manganese, and cobalt) on receiving period performance and morbidity, crossbred beef heifer calves (n = 287) arriving on three delivery dates were used in a 42-d receiving trial. Heifers were processed after arrival, stratified by day -1 body weights (BW) and allocated randomly to eight pens (11 to 13 heifers/pen, 24 pens total). Within truckload, pens were assigned randomly to dietary treatment (n = 12 pens/treatment). Heifers were housed on 0.42-ha grass paddocks, provided ad libitum bermudagrass hay and provided dietary treatments in grain supplements fed daily. Treatments consisted of supplemental zinc (360mg/d), copper (125mg/d), manganese (200mg/d), and cobalt (12mg/d) from complexed (Zinpro Availa 4, Zinpro Corp. Eden Prairie, MN) or inorganic sources (sulfates). Heifers were observed daily for clinical bovine respiratory disease (BRD). If presenting BRD symptoms and rectal temperature ≥ 40 °C, heifers were deemed morbid and treated with antibiotics. Six heifers/pen were bled to determine serum haptoglobin concentrations on days 0, 14, and 28. Liver biopsies were taken on day 5 ± 2 and 43 ± 1 from three calves selected randomly from each pen for mineral status comparisons. Statistical analyses were performed using the MIXED, GLIMMIX, and repeated measures procedures of SAS 9.4 with truckload as a random effect and pen within truckload specified as subject. There tended to be a treatment by day interaction for BW (P = 0.07). Heifer BW did not differ on day 0 (P = 0.82) and day 14 (P = 0.36), but heifers fed complexed trace minerals had greater BW on day 28 (P = 0.04) and day 42 (P = 0.05). Overall average daily gains were greater for heifers fed complexed trace minerals (P = 0.05; 0.78 vs. 0.70kg, SE = 0.03). Heifers supplemented with inorganic trace minerals had greater BRD incidence (P = 0.03; 58 vs. 46%, SE = 3.6). Haptoglobin concentrations decreased throughout the trial (P < 0.001), and heifers fed complexed trace minerals tended to have a decrease in haptoglobin concentrations (P = 0.07). The source of trace mineral supplementation had no effect (P ≥ 0.20) on liver mineral concentrations and there were no treatment × day interactions (P ≥ 0.35). In conclusion, supplementing diets for the first 42 d after arrival with complexed trace mineral sources improved heifer performance as compared to heifers supplemented with inorganic trace minerals.

Complexed amino acid minerals vs. bis-glycinate chelated minerals: Impact on the performance of old laying hens

The present study was to evaluate the effect of trace minerals (Zn, Mn, and Cu) from complexed amino acid minerals (ZMCAA) and bis-glycinate chelated minerals (ZMCGly) in laying hen diets on performance, internal and external egg quality, yolk mineral deposition, intestinal morphometry, and bone characteristics. From 78 to 98 weeks of age, 400 White LSL-Lite strain laying hens were distributed in a randomized design with 4 treatments with 10 replicates per treatment. Treatments were distributed in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement using either Zn, Mn, and Cu of ZMCAA or ZMCGly source at 2 levels: low (20, 20, and 3.5 mg/kg of Zn, Mn, and Cu, respectively) or high (40, 40, and 7 mg/kg of Zn, Mn, and Cu, respectively). The analysis of variance was performed, and in cases where differences were observed, the means were compared using Tukey's test (P < 0.05). The source and level of trace mineral supplementation had a significant impact on the performance of laying hens. Hens fed ZMCAA had higher egg production (P = 0.01), egg weight (P = 0.02), egg mass (P = 0.01), and lower feed conversion ratio (P = 0.05) compared to those fed ZMCGly. The ZMCAA supplementation showed higher albumen height (P = 0.01), albumen weight (P = 0.01), and eggshell thickness (P < 0.01). The deposition of Zn (P < 0.01), Mn (P < 0.01), and Cu (P < 0.01) in the egg yolk was greater for hens received ZMCAA. Tibia weight (P = 0.04) and bone densitometry (P < 0.01) in the tibia were higher with ZMCAA supplementation. In the small intestine, ZMCAA resulted in longer villi (P = 0.02) and shorter crypt depth (P = 0.01) in the duodenum. Jejunum and ileum measurements were influenced by the level and source of trace minerals (P < 0.05). Laying hens fed ZMCAA exhibited superior performance, egg quality, deposition of trace minerals in the egg yolk, and bone density compared to hens fed ZMCGly. In this study, older laying hens supplemented with ZMCAA at lower levels demonstrated adequate levels of supplementation.

Rumen Solubility of Copper, Manganese and Zinc and the Potential Link between the Source and Rumen Function: A Systematic Review

The dietary inclusion of trace minerals (TMs), such as copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn), is of importance to cover the ever-evolving requirements for growth, production and reproduction in ruminants. Various sources of TMs are commercially available, such as inorganic (ITM), organic (OTM) or hydroxy (HTM) forms; however, their bioavailability and efficiency to improve ruminant zootechnical parameters may be highly influenced by ruminal solubility and effects on the rumen environment. The objective of this review was to compile the most up-to-date information on the ruminal solubility of ITMs, OTMs and HTMs and their effects on fermentation parameters and rumen microbiota, aiming to support specialists from the animal feed industry when choosing TM products for ruminant supplementation. Some commonly used ITM sources, like sulfates, have a high ruminal solubility, while oxides are less soluble. The ruminal solubility of OTMs is mostly found to be high; however, data on these TM forms are still lacking. Regarding HTMs, ruminal solubility is reported to be low; nevertheless, results are inconsistent. Considering rumen fermentation, ITMs show a negative effect, OTMs might improve, while HTMs do not affect parameters like dry matter degradability, volatile fatty acid production, pH or microbial protein synthesis. As for rumen microbiota, ITMs do not affect microbial populations; OTMs could decrease the abundance of some specific bacteria, like fibrolytic microorganisms, while studies with HTMs are missing or inconclusive. Further research is necessary to better understand the ruminal solubility kinetics of TM sources and the different interactions with fermentation parameters and rumen microbiota to successfully apply the precision TM supplementation of ruminants, tackling deficiency occurrences.

PSVIII-A-1 Effect of Source of Trace Mineral and Bismuth Subsalicylate on Growth, Ruminal H2s, and Trace Mineral Status of Growing Heifers

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of providing inorganic, chelated, and inorganic plus injectable trace mineral supplementation strategies with or without the inclusion of bismuth subsalicylate (BSS) on dry matter intake (DMI), water intake, ruminal hydrogen sulfide (H2S) concentration, and trace mineral status of growing beef heifers provided high sulfate (5,055 ± 228 mg/L) water. This study consisted of an 84-d feeding period with a 2×2 + 1 factorial treatment arrangement conducted using 2 blocks. Beef heifers (n = 15/block; 367 ± 33 kg BW) in each block were stratified according to their initial liver copper concentration. Mineral treatments included inorganic [added CuSO4 (7.76 mg/kg), ZnSO4 (22.92 mg/kg), MnSO4 (15.28 mg/kg)], chelated (100% of the Cu-methionine (7.68 mg/kg ), Zn-methionine (22.89 mg/kg), and Mn-methionine (15.27 mg/kg), and injectable trace mineral (15 mg/mL Cu, 10 mg/mL Mn, 60 mg/mL Zn) provided in combination with the inorganic mineral treatment. The BSS treatments were 0.0 (CON) or 0.2% (BSS) on a DM basis. Feed and water intake (weekly), ruminal H2S concentration (d 42 and 84), and liver (pre-study, d 42 and 84) and serum trace mineral concentrations (d 1, 28, 56, and 84) were evaluated. Initial liver trace mineral concentration was used as a covariate. Dry matter intake tended to be greater (mineral × BSS, P = 0.05) for heifers provided chelated minerals and fed CON, compared with BSS, and tended to be less for heifers fed inorganic and CON than BSS. Heifers fed chelated minerals drank 6.1 L/d more (P &amp;lt; 0.05) water than those provided inorganic minerals. Injectable trace-mineral provision did not affect DMI or water intake. Ruminal H2S was not affected by mineral type or BSS (P ≥ 0.33). The inclusion of BSS reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.01) liver Cu concentration from 60.5 to 31.3 ppm. Heifers provided the injectable minerals had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) liver Cu concentration than the inorganic without BSS treatment. Serum copper was not affected by BSS or mineral treatment (P ≥ 0.44). The liver concentration of Se was reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.01) by the inclusion of BSS. The serum Se concentration was not affected by mineral type, BSS, time, or any two- or three-way interactions (P ≥ 0.24). Bismuth subsalicylate did not affect ruminal H2S, and negatively affected liver Cu concentration. The use of organic trace mineral supplementation strategies did not affect the trace mineral status of beef heifers drinking high sulfate water, but use of an injectable trace mineral supplement increased liver Cu.

376 Effects of Mineral Supplementation During Range Grazing on Ovine Performance

Abstract Western US sheep production systems are dependent on rangeland forages to meet nutritional needs for animal production. While many native rangeland soils and forages are deficient in minerals like Cu, Se, and Zn, it is unknown whether ewes will alter forage selection if they receive a mineral supplemented diet and if alternative forages will affect performance on range. The objectives of this study are to quantify the effects of mineral supplementation on ewe forage selectivity on rangeland, range utilization, and animal performance. We hypothesized ewes who receive a trace mineral supplement will have a more diverse diet, greater rangeland utilization, and improved performance characteristics than their non-supplemented contemporaries. In this study, (n = 59) ewes were grazed across four summer pastures on Cedar Mountain near Cedar City, Utah. Ewes between the ages of 1 and 6 with an average weight of 87 Kg ± 13 Kg were stratified by initial weight and breed into one of two different treatment groups: 1) trace mineral supplement ad libitum (TRT; n = 30), or 2) no mineral supplement (CON; n = 29). Ewe breed types consisted of black face type breeds (BLF; Suffolk) and white face type breeds (WF; Targhee, Rambouillet, and their crosses). All ewes received a similar diet of alfalfa hay and triticale without access to ad libitum mineral supplementation 30 days before the start of the trial. A solar powered C-lock inc. pro was used to track individual animal mineral intake. Back fat (BF) and loin eye depth (LED) were measured at day 0 and day 116 of the trial via ultrasound. Additionally, fecal samples were collected and used for fecal metabarcoding (fDNA) at approximately 30% pasture utilization, which measures the proportion of plant DNA in the feces to determine forage species consumed. Plant species were sorted into functional groups (forbs, grass likes, grasses, shrubs, and trees). The GLM procedure of SAS was used to analyze BF, LED, and fDNA. The mixed procedure of SAS with day as a repeated measure was used to analyze percentage change in body weight. Control ewes had greater BF by 0.08 cm (P = 0.02). No difference in BF was observed by breed (P = 0.8). Loin eye depth was greater by 0.2 cm (P = 0.01) in BLF ewes than WF ewes. Supplemented ewes maintained 1% more of their initial body weight than CON ewes (P = 0.01). No forage selection differences were observed by treatment or breed (P&amp;gt; 0.2). The current study results indicate that mineral supplementation on range may not affect forage selectivity but can benefit animals by maintaining body weight over the grazing season.

197 Trace Mineral Source Affects Haircoat Characteristics and Shedding in Cats

Abstract Trace minerals have a pivotal role in maintaining skin health and haircoat characteristics in companion animals. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of inorganic versus amino acid complexed sources of trace minerals on feline skin and haircoat characteristics as well as hair growth. A total of 40 cats (age 5 – 12 years; 22 female, 18 male) were used in this 105-d (15-d acclimation; 90-d test period) trial at Summit Ridge Farms (Susquehanna, PA) from January to April 2022. All cats were fed a basal diet that contained sulfate sources of trace minerals formulated to meet AAFCO (2021) recommendations for 15 d before being randomly assigned (blocked by haircoat color, age, sex, and weight) to 1 of 2 treatments. Dietary treatments included sulfate sources (CON; n = 20) and amino acid complexed (Zinpro ProPath, Zinpro Corp. Eden Prairie, MN) sources (ZPM; n = 20) of supplemental trace minerals. Both treatments were formulated to provide equal amounts of supplemental trace minerals (DM basis), differing only in source (100 ppm Zn, 15 ppm Mn, 12 ppm Cu, 80 ppm Fe). On d 15, a side patch was shaved just below the back (3” x 4”) to evaluate hair growth on d 60 and 105 (average of 3 measurements). Additionally, visual haircoat evaluations and shed hair amount were evaluated at d 60 and 105. All research personnel were blinded to treatments. Statistical analyses were completed using GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 with d 15 as a covariate and cat as the experimental unit. Trace mineral source did not affect body condition score at either time point. There was no treatment or treatment x day interaction for hair length. A trend (p = 0.13) for a 3-way interaction between treatment, sex, and day was detected due to male cats having longer hair at d 105. Shed hair was evaluated by brushing (20 strokes) and weighing collected hair. No overall treatment effect was detected for shed hair; although, a treatment x day interaction (P = 0.02) for shed hair was observed. At d 60, ZPM cats had 23 mg less shed hair compared with CON cats (P = 0.08). Haircoat scores for shine, scale, and overall quality were assessed by a veterinarian. There were no treatment or treatment x day interactions for shine or overall scores. A treatment x day interaction was detected (P = 0.02) for scale (dander). At d 60, ZPM cats had a reduced average scale score compared with CON cats (0.66 vs 1.05, respectively; P = 0.03). Overall, our data suggests trace mineral source may influence shed hair amount and dander production in cats. Further research to evaluate the influence of season and sex is warranted.

313 Effect of Dietary Trace Mineral Source on Performance, Bones Mineralization and Mineral Status in Fattening Pigs

Abstract Several papers report greater bioavailability of dietary trace mineral fed as organic in pigs compared with inorganic sources. However, only a few studies have tried to assess the variability of the trace mineral bioavailability among different organic sources. Growing barrows (n = 54; initial BW = 28.9 ± 1.3 kg) were used to determine the effects of trace mineral source on growth performance, bones mineralization and mineral status over the entire fattening period (d0-d73). Pigs were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to supplementation of trace minerals as inorganic (ITM) or one of 2 organic sources (OTM): glycine complex (GLY) or amino acids complex (AA). During the two feeding phases (growing: d0-d35; finishing: d35-d73), the experimental diets were supplemented with 5, 35 and 5 mg/kg of Cu, Zn and Mn, respectively. Pigs were fed restricted all through the experimental period. Feed intake was therefore comparable all through the experimental period for all pigs. Growth performance did not differ among the three experimental groups during the growing phase. However, Feed:Gain ratio measured during the finishing period tended to be affected by the dietary treatments (P=0.10). When grouping the GLY and AA pigs, the Feed:Gain ratio measured from d35 to d73 for the OTM pigs was significantly lower compared with ITM pigs (-0.07, P = 0.03). There was no significant effect of the dietary treatment on plasma trace mineral concentrations and alkaline phosphatase activity measured at day 34. At the end of the growing phase, plasma ceruloplasmin activity tended to be greater for the GLY and AA groups in comparison with the ITM pigs (+6.9%, P = 0.06). The zinc deposition in the proximal phalanx was significantly increased when the trace minerals were offered as organic compared with the group ITM (+10.9%, P = 0.06). Zinc content in the liver was greater for the pigs fed the OTM sources compared with the others (+6.0%, P = 0.10). The quantity of copper deposited in the liver did not differ significantly among the 3 trace mineral sources. This study indicates that the total replacement of inorganic Zn, Cu and Mn by organic sources brings benefits in terms of feed efficiency in fattening pigs. A better bioavailability as suggested by greater deposition levels in bone and liver as well as the increased circulating ceruloplasmin activity could explain the improvement of performance during the finishing period. Regardless of the variable considered, no significant differences were noticed between the two organic trace mineral sources.

The Effect of Organic Trace Mineral Supplementation in the Form of Proteinates on Performance and Sustainability Parameters in Laying Hens: A Meta-Analysis.

The effect of supplementing organic trace minerals (OTM), in the form of mineral proteinates (Bioplex® Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, Alltech Inc., Nicholasville, KY, USA), in the diets of laying hens was examined using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) statistical software. The impact on production performance, egg quality traits, and sustainability parameters related to the carbon footprint of egg production was assessed. Data were obtained from 32 global studies, comprising 107 dietary assessments of 30,992 laying hens. Overall pooled effect size (raw mean difference) of production performance when dietary organic trace minerals were supplemented either in basal diets, partial replacement of inorganic trace minerals (ITM), or total replacement of ITM, indicated that use of Bioplex minerals resulted in 2.07% higher hen-day production (HDP), whilst feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower by 51.28 g feed/kg egg and 22.82 g feed/dozen eggs, respectively. For egg quality traits, daily egg mass was 0.50 g/hen/day higher and egg weight was 0.48 g per egg greater when Bioplex minerals were incorporated in the diet. The mean difference in egg loss was -0.62%. Eggshell thickness was greater by 0.01 mm, and a higher eggshell strength of 0.14 kgf was observed. Eggshell weight was heavier by 0.20 g, eggshell percentage was higher by 0.15%, and Haugh unit was 1 point higher (0.89). We also carried out a meta-regression of the effects of the study factors (location, year of study, hen breed/strain, age of hens, number of hens, and study duration) on the overall pooled effect size of the production performance and egg quality traits in response to supplementary OTM inclusion, and it indicated that certain factors had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on the results. Finally, a life cycle assessment (LCA) model was selected to evaluate the impact of feeding organic trace mineral proteinates on the carbon footprint (feed and total emission intensities) of the egg production using the data generated from the meta-analysis. Results showed that the inclusion of OTM proteinates resulted in an average drop in feed and total emission intensities per kg eggs of 2.40% and 2.50%, respectively, for a low-global-warming-potential (GWP) diet and a drop of 2.40% and 2.48% for feed and total emissions, respectively, based on high-GWP diet. Based on the overall results, the inclusion of organic trace mineral proteinates in layer diets can benefit production performance and egg quality traits while contributing to a lower carbon footprint.

Optimisation of trace mineral supplementation in diets for Atlantic salmon smolt with reference to holistic fish performance in terms of growth, health, welfare, and potential environmental impacts.

The aquafeed ingredient inventory is ever changing, from marine to plant based, and recently evolving to incorporate increasing amounts of low trophic, side stream and circular economy based raw materials, each one contributing with variable amounts and qualities of macro- and micronutrients. Meeting the micronutrient requirement of farmed fish for healthy and efficient growth under normal and challenging conditions is of paramount importance. In this study we run a trial based on a 2 × 4 factorial design with three replications for each dietary treatment, where Atlantic salmon smolt were fed one of 8 experimental diets supplemented with either organic or inorganic mineral premixes (copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc) at four dietary inclusion levels. We saw a trend for higher growth rate in the organic mineral groups irrespective of the dietary mineral levels. Mineral digestibility was negatively correlated with increasing mineral supplementation levels for all tested minerals but Se which increased with the increasing supplementation in the inorganic and up to the 2nd inclusion level in the organic mineral groups. Increasing mineral supplementation affected retention efficiency of Zn, Mn, Cu and Fe while mineral source affected only the retention of Se which was higher in the organic mineral groups. Moreover, fish obtained higher EPA and DHA in their body and increased slaughter yield in the organic as compared to the inorganic mineral groups and corroborated that trace mineral inclusion levels play a key role on salmon fillet's technical quality. More effects from different origin and dietary inclusion levels of trace minerals were seen on fillet yield, fillet technical and nutritional quality, bone strength, skin morphology, organ mineralization and midgut transcriptome.

Impact of zinc, copper, manganese and chromium supplementation on growth performance and blood metabolic profile of Sahiwal (Bos indicus) male calves.

This study aimed to see the effect of oral supplementation of specific trace minerals mixture on the growth, immunity, and reproductive development of indigenous growing bull calves. Eighteen Sahiwal bull calves, with an average age of 6 months were chosen and divided into three groups. Group 1 was fed with a basal diet, Group 2 was provided with an additional specific trace mineral supplement to achieve a diet containing 70 ppm of Zn, 17.50 ppm of Cu, 65 ppm of Mn, and 1.75 ppm of Cr. Group 3 received a 25% extra supplement to achieve a diet containing 87.50 ppm of Zn, 21.87 ppm of Cu, 81.25 ppm of Mn, and 2.18 ppm of Cr. The experiment was carried out for a total of 180 days. According to the findings, there was no significant impact of specific trace minerals supplementation on the animals' body weight, morphometric parameters, dry matter intake, average daily gain, nutritional value, digestibility and nitrogen retention. However, higher levels of Zn, Cu, and Mn led to increased (p < 0.05) total retention, while Cr retention remained the same. Serum mineral concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Mn increased significantly (p < 0.05) in G2 and G3 compared to the G1 group while Ca, P, and Cr had no significant change. Blood plasma glucose, albumin, globulin, and total protein showed no significant differences. Plasma alkaline phosphatase activity improved significantly (p < 0.05) in G2 and G3 but alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and IGF-1 remained unchanged. Superoxide dismutase activity, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and total immunoglobulin concentration increased significantly (p < 0.05) in G2 and G3 groups, however, catalase activity and IgG count did not change among the groups. Mineral-supplemented groups (G2 and G3) showed a significant change (p < 0.05) in testosterone production during the 120th and the 180th day of the trial. Scrotal circumference and temperature gradient of the scrotal surface did not show any significant change. Supplementing growing bull calves with specific trace minerals above the basal level (70, 17.50, 65 and 1.75 ppm of Zn, Cu, Mn and Cr) has no direct beneficial effect on the growth parameters but can have positive effects on their antioxidant status, immunity and reproductive development as the related blood parameters were positively affected.

Evaluation of the stress‐reducing effect of trace mineral injection in beef calves

Little is known about the effects of trace mineral supplementation on the stress response in beef calves. To investigate the effect of injectable trace mineral supplementation (ITM) on the stress response in beef calves exposed to different types of stress. Thirty weaned Angus and Angus crossbred calves. The enrolled calves were randomly assigned to 2 groups: ITM, 15 calves received modified-live virus vaccine (MLV) and ITM SC and 15 calves received MLV and saline SC (CONT). The calves were exposed to 3 types of stress: the stress of MLV vaccination (d0), nasal aerosol with bovine viral diarrhea virus-2 (BVDV-2) challenge (d5), and liver biopsy (d26). The calves' body weights and health status were monitored. Leukocyte counts, serum cortisol concentration ([cort]), BVDV-2 serum neutralizing antibodies (SNA), and percentages of CD4+ , CD8+ , WC1+ , and CD25+ T-lymphocytes were measured. Serum cortisol concentration ([cort]) showed strong associations with the percentage of CD8+ (rs = .50), BVDV2-SNA (rs = -.43), and WC1CD25+ (rs = .41) cells, and rectal temperature (rs = .40). The highest [cort] was reported 3 days after aerosol BVDV-2 challenge. Serum [cort] was decreased in ITM-treated calves 3 days post-BVDV-2 challenge, compared with CONT calves, with an average decrease of 18.5 ng/μL (95% confidence interval [CI], -6.07 to -31.3). The ITM-treated calves were heavier and healthier (P < .01)than the CONT calves. Trace mineral supplementation appears to have stress mitigation effects in beef cattle that may reflect positively on growth and health performance. Viral exposure is associated with a high degree of stress, which is considered a major welfare concern.

Ruminal Solubility and Bioavailability of Inorganic Trace Mineral Sources and Effects on Fermentation Activity Measured in Vitro

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of supplementation with inorganic sources of manganese (MnO, MnSO4), zinc (ZnO, ZnSO4) and copper (CuSO4) at different levels (0.06%DM for Mn, 0.05%DM for Zn; 0.01 and 0.05%DM for Cu) on in vitro rumen fermentation, solubility and bioavailability. Fermentation activity was measured by total gas production (TGP) and dry matter degradability after 70 h of fermentation (dDM%). Trace mineral (TM) solubility was estimated via the TM concentration in the supernatant of the final fermentation medium (SOL) and TM bioavailability from the TM concentration in a bacterial-enriched fraction (BACT). Mn (regardless of source) and ZnO tended (p &lt; 0.10) to decrease, while Cu showed no significant effect on TGP. The addition of inorganic Mn and of ZnO tended (p &lt; 0.10) to decrease, ZnSO4 tended to increase (p &lt; 0.10), whilst Cu showed no effect on dDM%. Concerning solubility, Mn (MnO and MnSO4), ZnSO4 and CuSO4 significantly (p &lt; 0.05, p &lt; 0.001 and p &lt; 0.01) increased, while ZnO did not affect TM content in the SOL. These results indicate that MnSO4, ZnSO4 and CuSO4 are highly soluble, MnO is quite soluble, while ZnO has a low solubility in the rumen. Based on the TM content in BACT, MnO, MnS4 and CuSO4 have high bioavailability, while ZnO is poorly assimilated by rumen bacteria. However, the lack of clear inhibition or improvement in fermentations suggests that the rumen microbiota have a low requirement for TM supplementation.

Effects of a Blend of Live Yeast and Organic Minerals as an Alternative to Monensin on Intake, Digestibility, Performance and Beef Quality of Nellore Bulls Finished on Pasture with High Concentrate Supplementation

Effects of a blend of live yeast and organic minerals as an alternative to monensin and inorganic trace minerals for beef cattle finished on pasture with high concentrate supplementation, on growth performance, intake, digestibility, liver trace mineral and carcass characteristics were evaluated. Forty-eight Nellore bulls were blocked by initial body weight and randomly assigned to one of the two experimental diets. The animals were raised in an experimental pasture divided into 12 paddocks equipped with an electronic system for monitoring individual feeding behavior and feed intake. Treatments were: (1) Monensin (MON), 30 mg/kg supplement dry matter of sodium monensin and trace minerals supplementation from inorganic sources; (2) AdvantageTM (ADV), 1.6 g/kg supplement DM of a blend of live yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains) and organic trace minerals. The use of ADV instead of MON led to greater supplement intake and greater intake of dietary components. Bulls fed ADV also had higher digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein and non-fiber carbohydrates. Bulls fed MON had a greater number of visits to the feeder, however with a shorter time spent feeding per visit. The use of ADV resulted in higher average daily weight gain, and feed efficiency was similar between treatments. In the carcass, ADV tended toward greater Longissimus muscle area. Liver Zn concentration tended to be lower in the ADV treatment. The use of ADV generated higher meat lightness and redness. In summary, the blend of live yeast and organic minerals can be an alternative to monensin and inorganic sources of trace minerals for beef cattle finished on pasture with high concentrate supplementation, without negative effects on supplement feed efficiency and with benefits to animal growth.