@article{obanla_khan_adetunji_ajuwon_fahrenholz_iwuozo_adjei-fremah_ekunseitan_fasina_2024, title={Characterization of spray-dried plasma-induced immune response in Salmonella-challenged broiler chicks}, volume={103}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2024.104077}, abstractNote={Spray-dried plasma (SDP) is a functional feed additive that has been established to improve performance and health of livestock. Understanding the effect of SDP in immune response modulation is essential to optimize its use for controlling Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infection in chickens. This study was conducted to determine the levels of expression of selected cytokine genes in the ileum and cecal tonsil of SE-challenged broiler chicks. In a floor-pen housing, 320 broilers chicks were randomly assigned to 6 treatment groups: CX (unmedicated corn-soybean meal (SBM) basal without SDP), MX (unmedicated corn-SBM basal with antibiotic bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) added at 0.055g/kg diet), PCX (unmedicated corn-SBM basal with SDP added at 30g/kg diet). Treatments SE, MSE, and PSE consisted of chicks inoculated with 7.46 × 10}, number={11}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Obanla, Temitayo O. and Khan, Md Maruf and Adetunji, Adedeji O. and Ajuwon, Kolapo M. and Fahrenholz, Adam C. and Iwuozo, Odinaka C. and Adjei-Fremah, Sarah and Ekunseitan, Deji A. and Fasina, Yewande O.}, year={2024}, month={Nov} }
 @article{cabanas-ojeda_mejia-abaunza_lozano-cruz_aragao-netto_brown_rubio_fahrenholz_oviedo-rondon_2023, title={Corn kernel hardness and drying temperature affect particle size post-hammer-milling and pellet quality in broiler and swine diets}, volume={304}, ISSN={["1873-2216"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2023.115744}, abstractNote={The particle size (PS) of ground corn affects the live performance, nutrient digestibility, energy utilization, and gut health of poultry and swine. Endosperm hardness influences kernel breakability. The interactive effects of corn moisture content at harvest and drying temperature (DT) can also affect starch-protein matrix structure, breakage susceptibility, and pellet durability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of drying temperature (35 or 120 °C) in two yellow-dent corn hybrids with different kernel hardness (average and hard) on the geometric mean diameter (dgw) and standard deviation by weight (Sgw) when hammermilled, and pellet quality. Four different settings combinations of tip speeds (4213, 3862, 3335, and 2458 m/min) and screen of 8/64", 3.18 mm (8 −8); 20/64", 7.94 mm (20 −20); 24/64", 9.53 mm (24 −24); and 24/64", 9.53 mm (24 −24) respectively were used to target four dgw (400, 700, 925, and 1250 µm). After grinding, the 400 and 700 µm corn were included in broiler and sow diets to assess the impact of these treatments on the pellet durability index (PDI). Grinding and pelleting data were analyzed using a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of two corn varieties (CV) and two DT in a randomized complete block design with blocks by grinding or pelleting event. The average hardness CV generally had the lowest dgw. The hard CV had the biggest dgw when kernels were dried at 35 °C, and the tip speed setting was 3335 m/min. Drying at 120 °C increased dgw for the average hardness CV when the target PS were 700, 925, and 1250 µm, but caused no increase in dgw at the lowest target PS. In contrast, the dgw of hard CV was not affected by DT when ground to target 700 and 1250 µm and increased at 400 µm with the high DT. The average hardness CV had higher Sgw, especially when dried at 35 °C. Higher particle uniformity (lower Sgw) was observed with hard CV. Diets containing the hard CV presented better PDI than diets with the average CV. Better broiler feed PDI was observed with corn dried at 120 °C than at 35 °C. However, this effect was the opposite when grinding at a lower PS target for sow gestation diets. The PS distribution and damaged starch of corn affected PDI. Higher corn DT affected dgw and Sgw differently depending on CV and improved PDI in broiler diets, while 35 °C DT improved PDI in sow diets.}, journal={ANIMAL FEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY}, author={Cabanas-Ojeda, Joaquin A. and Mejia-Abaunza, Nicolas J. J. and Lozano-Cruz, Paula A. and Aragao-Netto, Valmiro and Brown, Sam and Rubio, Andrea and Fahrenholz, Adam and Oviedo-Rondon, Edgar O.}, year={2023}, month={Oct} }
 @article{flores_carvalho_reading_fahrenholz_ferket_grimes_2023, title={Machine learning and data mining methodology to predict nominal and numeric performance body weight values using Large White male turkey datasets}, volume={32}, ISSN={["1537-0437"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.japr.2023.100366}, abstractNote={Large biological data sets with many variables and a small number of biological replicates ("omics" sciences and industry data) are challenging to analyze with traditional inferential statistics. Statistical models can be applied to data containing more observations than variables, and they are strongly suited for this purpose. However, the power to detect actual differences is reduced when the number of comparisons exceeds the number of experimental replicates or observations. Machine learning (ML) allows researchers to evaluate treatments groups or multiple categories of variables with fewer observations. Thus, it has become a tool used to predict phenomena and evaluate relationships within datasets that are less suited for traditional statistics. Data mining (DM) helps researchers to identify the most critical variables in an ML predictive model and can be used akin to "statistical significance" for interpretation. This current effort aimed to develop ML and DM methodologies while applying them to predict Large White male turkey body weight (BW). Data from a previously reported study were used. Bird BW, weekly BW gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), small intestine pH, cloacal temperature, density, microbiome taxa, litter content of Mn and Zn, were used as variables for the ML analysis. A total of 253 variables were used in ML and DM analysis. BW and FI at 18 wk were classified as low, objective, and high based on a 5% for BW and 3% for FI margin of the Aviagen male turkey objectives for ML analysis. The WEKA 3.8.5 Experimenter tool used various classification and regression algorithms with a 10-fold cross-validation system to predict 18 wk BW based on input data. A single algorithm made the most practical model, from 3 models constructed, with a correlation of 0.73 and a root square error of 0.26 based only on turkey 14 wk BW. In conclusion, these ML and DM tools could be applied to turkey research and production systems by analyzing large data sets to predict growth performance.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF APPLIED POULTRY RESEARCH}, author={Flores, K. R. and Carvalho, L. V. F. M. and Reading, B. J. and Fahrenholz, A. and Ferket, P. R. and Grimes, J. L.}, year={2023}, month={Dec} }
 @article{dosu_obanla_zhang_sang_adetunji_fahrenholz_ferket_nagabhushanam_fasina_2023, title={Supplementation of ginger root extract into broiler chicken diet: effects on growth performance and immunocompetence}, volume={102}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2023.102897}, abstractNote={Ginger contain bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In this study, 432-day-old Ross 708 broiler male chicks were randomly allocated to six dietary treatments to investigate the effect of ginger root extract (GRE) on immunocompetence and growth performance to 6 wk of age. Treatment 1 (CON) consisted of chicks fed a corn-soybean meal (SBM), a base diet without GRE. Treatment 2 (MX) chicks were given basal diets containing bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) at 0.055 g/kg. Treatments 3 (GRE-0.375%), 4 (GRE-0.75%), 5 (GRE-1.5%) and 6 (GRE-3%) were fed similar diet to control with GRE supplemented at 0.375%, 0.75%, 1.5% and 3%, respectively. Moreover, HPLC Analysis of GRE was carried out to determine the concentration of bioactive compounds found in GRE. Each treatment consisted of 6 replicate pens with 12 chicks/pen. Bodyweight (BW) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded. Results show that the concentration of bioactive compounds increased with increasing GRE supplementation. Likewise, dietary GRE supplementation did not have any detrimental effect on growth performance parameters up to 1.5%, as values for BWG was not different from CON and MX; however, 3% GRE had the poorest FCR and a lower BWG as compared to other treatments. On d 27 and d 41, fecal and cecal concentrations of total bacteria count (TBC), Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus spp., and Bifidobacterium spp enumerated using selective plating media showed that GRE supplementation significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the amount of TBC and E. coli but increased the number of beneficial microorganisms such as Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. On d 20, no significant differences were observed (P > 0.05) among all treatments for antibody titer against Newcastle Disease virus and Total IgY antibodies, however, on d 27, GRE-0.75% had the highest value for both immune indicators and was not different from MX. Dietary supplementation of GRE up to 1.5% enhanced the immune system and suppressed E. coli while promoting the growth of healthy bacteria, without any detrimental effect on growth performance.}, number={10}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Dosu, George and Obanla, Temitayo O. and Zhang, Shuwei and Sang, Shengmin and Adetunji, Adedeji O. and Fahrenholz, Adam C. and Ferket, Peter R. and Nagabhushanam, Kalyanam and Fasina, Yewande O.}, year={2023}, month={Oct} }
 @article{rubio_conrad_juzaitis-boelter_wishon_fahrenholz_2023, title={The impact of marker selection, in-line near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR), and feed mix time on the coefficient of variation (mix uniformity), body weight uniformity and broiler growth performance during the starter, grower, and finisher periods}, volume={102}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2023.103109}, abstractNote={Most feed manufacturers in the United States use the same mixing time (and thus mix uniformity) throughout the growing period regardless of age and consumption patterns. However, research evaluating the optimum mixing time requirements and novel analysis methods, such as in-line near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, on the coefficient of variation (CV) and growth performance of broilers throughout the production phases is sparse. Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of marker selection, in-line NIR, and varying mix times on mix uniformity, broiler growth performance, and body weight uniformity from 1 to 42 d of age. Feed was manufactured utilizing a 1,815-kg counterpoise ribbon mixer. In both experiments, feed was mixed for 4.5 min (3 min dry mix and 90 s of wet mix) and 30 s (0 s dry mix and 30 s wet mix) to obtain a standard mix (SM) and an abbreviated mix (AM), respectively. Experiment 1 constituted a 2 × 2 × 4 factorial arrangement of 2 mix times, (4.5 and 0.5 min), 2 batch sizes (908 and 1,815 kg), and 4 methodologies to evaluate mixer performance (sodium chloride, Microtracers (Red#40 and Blue#40), and in-line NIR). In experiment 2, broilers received different mix time combinations: 1) SM from 1 to 42 d, 2) SM from 1 to 28 d and AM from 28 to 42 d, 3) SM from 1 to 14 d and AM from 14 to 42 d, and 4) AM from 1 to 42 d. In both experiments, selecting a single source marker provided a more accurate estimation of mixer CV in SM and AM diets (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, mix time did not influence BW, feed intake (FI), FCR, or individual bird BW CV from 1 to 42 d of age (P > 0.05). These data indicated that mixer CV differed depending on total mix time and methodology used and diets with a reduced mix time may not necessarily influence growth performance and BW uniformity during the starter, grower, and finisher periods of broilers.}, number={12}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Rubio, A. A. and Conrad, S. and Juzaitis-Boelter, C. and Wishon, C. R. and Fahrenholz, A. C.}, year={2023}, month={Dec} }
 @article{flores_fahrenholz_ferket_biggs_grimes_2021, title={Effect of methionine chelated Zn and Mn and corn particle size on Large White male turkey live performance and carcass yields}, volume={100}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, url={http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85115128987&partnerID=MN8TOARS}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2021.101444}, abstractNote={Most turkey research has been conducted with a regular corn particle size set through phase-feeding programs. This study's first objective was to determine the effect of increasing corn particle size through the feed phases on performance, processing yield, and feed milling energy usage in Large White commercial male turkey production. Zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) are essential microminerals for animals' healthy growth. The source in which these elements are supplied to the bird will determine their bioavailability, effect on bird growth, and subsequent environmental impact. This study's second objective was to measure both inorganic and chelated Zn and Mn sources on turkey performance, turkey carcass processing yields, and subsequent litter residues. Twelve hundred Nicolas Select male poults were randomly assigned to 48 concrete; litter-covered floor pens. The experimental design was a completely randomized block design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of 2 sources of minerals (organic blend vs. inorganic) formulated to match breeder recommendations and 2 types of corn mean particle size (coarse corn [1,000–3,500 µm] vs. fine corn [276 µm]). The ASABE S319.4 standard was used to measure corn mean particle size. Bird performance, carcass processing yield, litter content of Zn and Mn, and pellet mill energy consumption were analyzed in SAS 9.4 in a mixed model. There was a reduction of pellet mill energy usage of 36% when coarse corn was added post-pelleting. Birds fed increasing coarse corn mean particle size were 250 g lighter on average in body weight (BW) than birds fed a constant control mean particle size. No difference was found in feed intake (FI) or feed conversion ratio (FCR). Birds fed methionine chelated Zn and Mn blended with inorganic mineral sources were 250 g heavier on average than birds fed only an inorganic source of minerals. In addition, feeding an organic blend of Zn and Mn resulted in greater breast meat yield. Litter from birds fed the control corn mean particle size, and inorganic minerals had a higher concentration of Zn in the litter but were not different when the chelated Zn/Mn were fed. In conclusion, increasing the corn mean particle size and adding it post pellet could save money during feed milling; however, birds might have a slightly lower BW. A combination of inorganic and chelated Zn and Mn may improve performance and increase total breast meat yields.}, number={11}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Flores, K. R. and Fahrenholz, A. and Ferket, P. R. and Biggs, T. J. and Grimes, J. L.}, year={2021}, month={Nov} }
 @article{flores_fahrenholz_grimes_2021, title={Effect of pellet quality and biochar litter amendment on male turkey performance}, volume={100}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, url={http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85101351113&partnerID=MN8TOARS}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2021.01.025}, abstractNote={Bedding (litter) is essential to poultry performance and health and can have an environmental impact after use in the poultry facility such as a soil amendment or as an alternative energy source. Pine shavings are the most common bedding used for turkey production. However, the increase in its price and its increasing scarcity in some areas have created new research opportunities for reusing litter as bedding. Improvement in feed pellet quality has been reported to improve poultry performance. However, the reports for turkeys are limited and dated. This study's objective was to determine how the improvement of feed pellet quality and the use of biochar added to a combination of used turkey brooder house litter and Miscanthus grass as bedding affects turkey performance, small intestine morphology, and ammonia production. Nicolas Select (Aviagen Turkeys, Lewisburg, WV) male poults (816) were randomly assigned to 48 concrete litter floor pens on the day of hatch. The experiment used a completely randomized block design with a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments: 2 levels of fines in the feed and 4 bedding treatments. The bedding treatments were a constant level of used turkey brooder house litter combined with a varying combination of biochar and Miscanthus grass. Turkey's body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined. Differences in treatment means were considered to be statistically significant at P ≤ 0.05 using a mixed model in SAS 9.4. Turkeys fed the feed with improved pellet quality had a higher BW from 3 to 17 wk (17.0 ± 0.1 kg) than turkeys fed an increased abundance of fines (16.72 ± 0.1 kg). Turkeys fed feed with increased pellet quality had a lower FI (45.6 vs. 48.1 ± 0.4 kg) and improved FCR (2.20 vs. 2.31 ± 0.01) from 0 to 20 wk. Litter treatment with 20% biochar resulted in higher BW at 20 wk (20.91 ± 0.16 kg) because of increased BWG at 11 wk over the rest of the biochar levels (3.7 ± 0.1 kg). Strategies to reduce the abundance of fines in feed through feed formulation, feed manufacturing, feed transport, and in-house feed management should be considered to increase male turkeys' performance. There may be opportunities to use biochar as a litter amendment to improve turkey health and performance.}, number={4}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Flores, K. R. and Fahrenholz, A. and Grimes, J. L.}, year={2021}, month={Apr} }
 @article{dunmire_braun_zhang_jones_li_woodworth_goodband_tokach_fahrenholz_stark_et al._2021, title={Effect of the Pelleting Process on Diet Formulations with Varying Levels of Crystalline AA and Reducing Sugars on Nursery Pig Growth Performance}, volume={99}, ISSN={["1525-3163"]}, DOI={10.1093/jas/skab054.289}, abstractNote={Abstract
               A total of 360 pigs (DNA 200×400; initially 11.3 kg) were used in an 18-d study to determine the effect of pelleting diets with or without increased concentrations of free amino acids (AA) and reducing sugars (RS) on pig growth performance. There were 9 replications/treatment and 5 pigs/pen. Treatments were arranged in a 2×2×2 factorial with main effects of diet form (mash vs. pellet), crystalline AA (low vs. high), and RS (low vs. high) provided by dried distillers grain with solubles and bakery meal included at 20% and 15%, respectively. Diets were pelleted to achieve a conditioning temperature of 86.7°C using a 22.4 kW pellet mill equipped with a 4.7 x 34.9-mm die. Data were analyzed as a CRD using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. There were no 3-way interactions observed. For the main effect of feed form, ADFI decreased (P=0.001) and G:F and caloric efficiency improved (P=0.001) in pigs fed pelleted diets compared to mash diets. For the main effect of crystalline AA, pigs fed diets with high crystalline AA had increased (P< 0.024) ADFI compared to those fed diets with low crystalline AA. For the main effect of RS, pigs fed high RS diets had decreased (P< 0.041) ADG, ADFI, G:F, and caloric efficiency compared to those fed low RS. In conclusion, there was no evidence of interactions between treatments, indicating that increasing amounts of crystalline AA and RS did not influence the response to pelleted diets. Pigs fed the high RS diets had reduced feed intake which resulted in reduced gain and improved feed and caloric efficiency.
               }, journal={JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Dunmire, Kara M. and Braun, Michaela B. and Zhang, Yiqin and Jones, Cassandra K. and Li, Yonghui and Woodworth, Jason C. and Goodband, Robert D. and Tokach, Mike D. and Fahrenholz, Adam C. and Stark, Charles R. and et al.}, year={2021}, month={May}, pages={171–171} }
 @article{acosta_petry_gould_jones_stark_fahrenholz_patience_2020, title={Can the digestibility of corn distillers dried grains with solubles fed to pigs at two stages of growth be enhanced through management of particle size using a hammermill or a roller mill?}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2573-2102"]}, DOI={10.1093/tas/txaa171}, abstractNote={Abstract
               The objective of this study was to determine the impact of reducing the mean particle size (PS) of corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) with a hammermill (HM) or with a roller mill (RM) on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), N, acid hydrolyzed ether extract (AEE), and fiber components in growing and finishing pigs. Twenty-four growing barrows were housed in individual pens and were randomly assigned to a 3 × 2 factorial design (n = 8): three grinding methods [either corn DDGS ground with an HM to a PS of 450 μm; corn DDGS ground with an RM to a PS of 450 μm; and corn DDGS with a PS of 670 μm (not further ground)] and two body weight (BW) periods (growing pigs with an average initial BW of 54.7 ± 0.9 kg, and finishing pigs with an average initial BW of 107.8 ± 1.5 kg BW). Fecal samples were collected for each BW period in the last 3 d of an 11-d feeding period. Titanium dioxide was used as an indigestible marker. Digestibility data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Results showed that finishing pigs tended to have better ATTD of DM than growing pigs (P = 0.09) and had increased ATTD of GE and N than growing pigs (P = 0.03 and P < 0.01, respectively). On the other hand, growing pigs had better ATTD of AEE than finishing pigs (P = 0.01). Pig BW period did not affect the ATTD of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and hemicellulose. Reducing the mean PS of corn DDGS with either HM or RM (from 670 to 450 µm) improved the ATTD of DM and GE (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01), tended to improve the ATTD of N (P = 0.08), and improved the ATTD of AEE (P < 0.01). No effect of reducing PS was observed for the ATTD of NDF, ADF, or hemicellulose. There were no differences between HM and RM in any of the ATTD variables tested. In conclusion, reducing PS of corn DDGS from 670 to 450 μm either with an HM or with an RM improved the digestibility of DM, GE, and AEE and modestly improved the digestibility of N in growing and finishing pigs. However, reducing the PS of corn DDGS did not affect the digestibility of fiber components.}, number={3}, journal={TRANSLATIONAL ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Acosta, Jesus A. and Petry, Amy L. and Gould, Stacie A. and Jones, Cassandra K. and Stark, Charles R. and Fahrenholz, Adam C. and Patience, John F.}, year={2020}, month={Jul} }
 @article{flores_fahrenholz_grimes_2020, title={Effect of feed form, soybean meal protein content, and Rovabio Advance on poult live performance to 3 wk of age}, volume={99}, ISSN={["1525-3171"]}, url={http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85092338578&partnerID=MN8TOARS}, DOI={10.1016/j.psj.2020.09.009}, abstractNote={Based on research reports, feed characteristics can increase poult growth via several factors. Two rearing experiments (EXP) were conducted to test the effects of feed form and ingredient quality in turkey poults. Bird performance and the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and cecum morphology were observed in both EXP. Poults were reared in battery cages (48 cages in EXP 1 and 72 cages in EXP 2). Four dietary treatments with differing feed form and function factors were evaluated in EXP 1. A completely randomized block design with a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments consisting of 2 levels of fines, 2 soybean meal (SBM) sources, and 2 levels of an enzyme cocktail (Rovabio Advance) was tested in EXP 2. Poult BW, BW gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined in both EXP. Apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen (AMEn) was determined in EXP 2. Differences were considered to be statistically significant at P ≤ 0.05. Feeding increased feed crumble particle size with fewer fines in the starter feed resulted in an increased BWG accompanied by an increased FI. Reduced feed fines reduced AMEn when the dietary enzyme cocktail was not present. The feed formulation with 60% CP SBM resulted in a lower FI and an improved FCR. The enzyme cocktail interacted synergistically with screening and fed SBM source factors on the AMEn and FCR. It was concluded that both the feed form and quality, as used in this study, affect poult performance.}, number={12}, journal={POULTRY SCIENCE}, author={Flores, K. R. and Fahrenholz, A. C. and Grimes, J. L.}, year={2020}, month={Dec}, pages={6705–6714} }
 @article{cordova-noboa_oviedo-rondon_ortiz_matta_hoyos_buitrago_martinez_yanquen_chico_san martin_et al._2021, title={Effects of corn kernel hardness and grain drying temperature on particle size and pellet durability when grinding using a roller mill or hammermill}, volume={271}, ISSN={["1873-2216"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2020.114715}, abstractNote={Corn kernel hardness and drying temperature may affect particle size and distribution after grinding, impacting feed mill productivity and animal performance. In the present study, the effects of two corn hybrids with different kernel hardness (average and hard respectively) and three-grain drying temperatures (35, 80, and 120 °C) on the geometric mean (dgw) and standard deviation (Sgw) of particle size were assessed. For roller-milling, four combinations of roller gap settings were utilized (0−0, 25−20, 30−30, and 35−35), whereas, for hammermilling, three tip speeds were used (1508; 4207 and 6320 m/min) in each case grinding through a 12/64″, 4.76 mm (12−12) screen combination. This evaluation was conducted in corn stored for less than 2 weeks (wk) for new crop and 30 wk. Additionally, at 2, 4, 8, 12, 17, and 20 wk of storage, treatments were ground by a hammermill to study the effects of storage on dgw and Sgw. After that, these ground batches of corn were included in feeds to investigate pellet durability. For evaluations performed in new crop corn, and at 2, 4, and 8 wk of storage, treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial design with two kernel hardness and three drying temperatures. In contrast, evaluations at 12, 17, and 20 wk, treatments consisted of a 2 × 2 factorial design with two-particle sizes and two drying temperatures. For all evaluations, three replicates per treatment combination were considered. Data were analyzed in a completely randomized design, and mean separation was done using Tukey's or student's t-tests. Results in new crop corn showed that at 35 °C level, harder kernel corn yielded larger (P < 0.001) dgw compared to the hybrid with average kernel hardness when roller milling with 0−0 and 35−35 roll gap. Hammermilling (4207 and 6320 m/min) corn with hard kernel and dried at 120 °C resulted in greater dgw (P < 0.001) than similar corn but dried at 80 and 35°C. At 30 wk of storage, average kernel corn and dried at 80°C yielded larger (P < 0.01) dgw and lower (P < 0.001) Sgw in comparison to similar corn but dried at 35 °C when hammermilling at 6320 m/min. Regression analysis showed that storage time decreased (P < 0.05) the dgw in corn with average and hard kernel hardness, when hammermilling corn at 6320 m/min. The pellet durability index (PDI) was better for diets with average kernel hardness and corn dried at 35 °C than at higher temperatures. The particle size and moisture of corn affected PDI. This study shows the impacts of kernel hardness and drying temperature on PDI, dgw, and Sgw regardless of the grinding method and confirms that dgw is reduced as storage time increases.}, journal={ANIMAL FEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY}, author={Cordova-Noboa, Hernan A. and Oviedo-Rondon, Edgar O. and Ortiz, Andres and Matta, Yilmar and Hoyos, Jose Sebastian and Buitrago, Gherly Daniela and Martinez, Juan Daivd and Yanquen, Jose Jonatan and Chico, Miguel and San Martin, Viviana Edita and et al.}, year={2021}, month={Jan} }
 @article{acosta_petry_gould_jones_stark_fahrenholz_patience_2020, title={Effects of grinding method and particle size of wheat grain on energy and nutrient digestibility in growing and finishing pigs}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2573-2102"]}, DOI={10.1093/tas/txaa062}, abstractNote={Abstract
               Feed grains are processed to improve their value in pig diets by exposing kernel contents to enzymatic and microbial action. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of reducing mean particle size (PS) of wheat grain ground with two different grinding methods (GMs) on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and energy in growing and finishing pigs. Forty-eight barrows were housed in individual pens for 11 d for two periods. Pigs were randomly assigned to a 3 × 2 × 2 factorial experimental design: three target mean PS of wheat grain (300, 500, and 700 µm), two GMs (roller mill and hammermill), and two body weight (BW) periods (growing period; initial BW of 54.9 ± 0.6 kg and finishing period; initial BW of 110.7 ± 1.4 kg). Diets contained one of six hard red wheat grain samples, vitamins, minerals, and titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. Feed allowance provided 2.5 (for the two lightest pigs in each treatment) or 2.7 (for the remaining six pigs in each treatment) times the estimated daily maintenance energy requirement for each growth stage. Fecal samples were collected for the last 3 d of each period. Data were analyzed as a linear mixed model with pig as a random effect and PS, GM, and BW period and their interactions as fixed effects utilizing the MIXED procedure of SAS. Growing pigs had greater (P < 0.05) ATTD of dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), N, acid hydrolyzed ether extract (AEE), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) by lowering mean PS from 700 to 500 μm using either a roller mill or a hammermill. However, digestibility did not increase when PS was reduced from 500 to 300 μm, except for AEE (P < 0.05). Finishing pigs had greater ATTD of DM, GE, N, AEE, and NDF by lowering mean PS with a hammermill from 700 to 500 μm (P < 0.05), but it was greater for 500 μm than for 300 μm (P < 0.05). Using a roller mill reduced the ATTD of DM and NDF by lowering PS from 700 to 300 μm (P < 0.05). The ATTD of GE decreased by lowering PS from 700 to 500 μm with a roller mill (P < 0.05) for finishing pigs. The ATTD of N and AEE for finishing pigs were similar from 700 to 300 μm when ground by a roller mill. These data suggest that the PS that maximized digestibility for a hammermill is 500 μm for both growing and finishing pigs. However, for the roller mill, the PS resulting in the best digestibility were 500 and 700 μm for growing and finishing pigs, respectively.}, number={2}, journal={TRANSLATIONAL ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Acosta, Jesus A. and Petry, Amy L. and Gould, Stacie A. and Jones, Cassandra K. and Stark, Charles R. and Fahrenholz, Adam and Patience, John F.}, year={2020}, month={Apr}, pages={682–693} }
 @article{pope_fahrenholz_2020, title={The effect of the level of mixer-added water and mash conditioning temperature on parameters monitored during pelleting and phytase and xylanase thermostability}, volume={269}, ISSN={["1873-2216"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2020.114679}, abstractNote={Exogenous enzymes have been used in broiler and swine rations to improve nutrient utilization and reduce feed costs, both of which improved the efficiencies of live production. Feed manufacturers have also utilized practices, such as warm mash conditioning temperatures (CT) and the addition of moisture at the mixer or mash conditioning chamber, to maintain adequate physical feed quality. While the impact of warm conditioning practices on enzyme thermostability had been well described, the impact of mixer-added water (MAW) on enzyme thermostability was scarcely investigated in previous literature. The present experiment intended to investigate the interaction of three mash CT and three levels of MAW on the thermostability of a phytase and xylanase mixer-added enzyme within a swine gestation diet in a 3 × 3 factorial randomized complete block design. The mash CT included 80, 86, and 92 °C and the levels of MAW included 0, 10, and 20 g/kg. Parameters monitored during the pelleting process included pellet durability index (PDI), pellet mill energy consumption (PMEC), and the change in temperature between hot pellets and conditioned mash (Δ T). Conditioning mash at 92 °C resulted in a 22.5 percentage-point reduction in phytase recovery in conditioned mash and a 70.1 percentage-point reduction in phytase recovery in pellets when compared to diets pelleted at 80 °C (P < 0.01). The xylanase, however, was not affected by mash CT. Phytase and xylanase recovery in pellets was not affected by the level of MAW. As PDI and PMEC increased, phytase recovery in pellets relative to unconditioned mash decreased (P < 0.01). As Δ T increased, phytase recovery in pellets relative to unconditioned mash increased (P < 0.01). Xylanase denaturation was poorly described by the parameters monitored during pelleting, likely because it was minimally denatured during pelleting. A robust multiple regression model was generated to predict phytase activity in pellets relative to unconditioned mash (R2 = 0.95; P < 0.01) when the controlled factors and monitored parameters were combined in a predictive model. In conclusion, the primary site of enzyme denaturation in a pilot scale pellet mill was the pellet mill die and MAW did not affect enzyme recovery.}, journal={ANIMAL FEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY}, author={Pope, J. T. and Fahrenholz, A. C.}, year={2020}, month={Nov} }
 @article{acosta_petry_gould_jones_stark_fahrenholz_patience_2020, title={Enhancing digestibility of corn fed to pigs at two stages of growth through management of particle size using a hammermill or a roller mill}, volume={4}, ISSN={["2573-2102"]}, DOI={10.1093/tas/txz146}, abstractNote={Abstract
               The experimental objective was to determine the role of mean particle size (PS), grinding method, and body weight (BW) category on nutrient, fiber, and energy digestibility of corn. A total of 48 barrows were housed in individual pens and randomly assigned to one of six dietary treatments for 11 d at two BW categories (55 kg and 110 kg). The six treatments consisted of corn ground at three different targeted mean PSs (300, 500, and 700 µm) using either a roller mill or a hammermill. Fecal samples were collected for the last 3 d of each feeding period. Titanium dioxide was used as an indigestible marker. Digestibility data were analyzed as a linear mixed model using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Finishing pigs had greater apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM), gross energy (GE), and N than growing pigs (P = 0.02, P = 0.01, and P <0.01, respectively). The ATTD of DM, GE, and N was similar in pigs fed hammermilled corn across all PS treatments. However, in roller-milled corn, they increased as PS was reduced (P < 0.05). The ATTD of acid-hydrolyzed ether extract (AEE) in growing pigs was similar between corn ground at 700 and 500 µm, but it was increased by further reducing PS to 300 µm (P < 0.05). In finishing pigs, the ATTD of AEE increased as mean PS decreased from 700 to 300 µm (P < 0.05). The ATTD of AEE was similar in hammermilled corn at all three PS treatments. On the other hand, the ATTD of AEE was similar in corn ground in a roller mill to 700 and 500 µm, but it increased when PS was reduced to 300 µm (P < 0.05). In conclusion, reducing PS of corn with a roller mill increased digestibility of energy and nutrients, but there was less effect using a hammermill. It is possible that differences in SD, distribution, chemical composition, and the shape of the particles resulting from the two grinding processes help to explain the different response.}, number={1}, journal={TRANSLATIONAL ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Acosta, Jesus A. and Petry, Amy L. and Gould, Stacie A. and Jones, Cassandra K. and Stark, Charles R. and Fahrenholz, Adam C. and Patience, John F.}, year={2020}, month={Jan}, pages={10–21} }
 @article{pope_brake_fahrenholz_2020, title={Parameters monitored during the pelleting process and their relationship to xylanase activity loss}, volume={259}, ISSN={["1873-2216"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2019.114344}, abstractNote={Exogenous enzymes have been regularly used in broiler diets to improve the value of raw ingredients by enhancing their digestibility. Broiler feed has also been most commonly pelleted, which has exposed mixer-added exogenous enzymes to pressure and heat. These conditions have often resulted in mixer-added exogenous enzyme denaturation and inactivation. The present experiment was intended to define the relationship between parameters monitored during the pelleting process, such as change in temperature between hot pellets and conditioned mash (ΔT), pellet durability index (PDI), and pellet mill energy consumption (PMEC) and the stability of a mixer-added xylanase throughout the pelleting process. To generate a range in values for ΔT, PDI, and PMEC, diets were pelleted with varying concentrations of fat and degrees of saturation of fat through two pellet mill dies with varying length-to-diameter ratios at a constant temperature of 82 °C. It was determined that as ΔT, PDI, and PMEC increased, xylanase recovery in pellets relative to unconditioned and conditioned mash decreased (P = 0.001). When select parameters monitored during the pelleting process were combined with select controlled factors, a multiple regression model was generated (P = 0.001; R2 = 0.84). These data indicated that practices implemented to improve PDI may negatively affect the stability of heat sensitive mixer-added exogenous enzymes during the pelleting process and that predictive models could be generated to better predict the impact of implementing feed manufacturing practices to improve pellet durability on enzyme thermostability.}, journal={ANIMAL FEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY}, author={Pope, J. T. and Brake, J. and Fahrenholz, A. C.}, year={2020}, month={Jan} }
 @article{evans_garlich_barasch_stark_fahrenholz_grimes_2019, title={The Effects of Miscanthus Grass as a Bedding Source and the Dietary Inclusion of Unheated, Low-Trypsin Inhibitor Soybeans on the Performance of Commercial Tom Turkeys Reared to Market Age}, volume={28}, ISSN={["1537-0437"]}, DOI={10.3382/japr/pfz060}, abstractNote={SUMMARY A study was conducted to evaluate bedding source and the inclusion of rolled, unheated soybeans on the growth performance of male turkeys when reared to market age. Pine shavings are the most common poultry bedding material, however recently, increased marketplace competition has significantly reduced its availability and necessitated the need for economical alternatives. Additionally, the development of new varieties of soybeans with low levels of antinutritional factors have created an opportunity for dietary inclusion with minimal processing. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of Miscanthus grass as an alternative to pine shavings litter and to evaluate 2 novel, low trypsin inhibitor soybean varieties as a potential ingredient for turkeys. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial design with main effects of litter type (Miscanthus grass or pine shavings) and dietary treatment. Diets were defined based on the soy protein source: LO (novel, unheated low oligosaccharide and trypsin inhibitor soybean), LT (novel, unheated low trypsin inhibitor soybean), SBM (commercial solvent extracted soybean meal), or CB (unheated conventional soybeans). Bedding type did not affect BW gain or feed intake at market, however, a tendency for improved FCR was observed when turkeys were raised on Miscanthus grass (P = 0.073). Turkey toms fed diets containing low trypsin inhibitor soybeans had improved BW gain and feed intake with a lower overall FCR compared to turkeys fed diets containing conventional raw whole soybeans. Therefore, there was improved digestibility of the novel soybean lines. Nutrient utilization of the novel low trypsin inhibitor soybeans, however, remained inferior to diets containing solvent extracted soybean meal, which yielded the heaviest BW and lowest FCR with similar feed intake to the low trypsin inhibitor soybean diets.}, number={4}, journal={JOURNAL OF APPLIED POULTRY RESEARCH}, author={Evans, C. E. and Garlich, J. D. and Barasch, I. B. and Stark, C. R. and Fahrenholz, A. C. and Grimes, J. L.}, year={2019}, month={Dec}, pages={982–996} }
 @article{fahrenholz_2019, title={Best practices: Mixing and sampling}, volume={250}, ISSN={["1873-2216"]}, DOI={10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2018.09.017}, abstractNote={In the manufacture of animal food, proper mixing is of utmost importance, no matter whether one is concerned about the inclusion of an additive, nutritional adequacy, or simply the general quality of the finished product. In order to produce a high quality, homogenous mixture, it is important to put into place good practices for both processes and sampling procedures utilized for process evaluation. However, producing a properly mixed animal food actually begins well before the mixing process itself, with a number of important steps in manufacturing coming first, including receiving, grinding, and batching of ingredients. At the mixer, feed mills should be concerned with proper ingredient addition order, appropriate mixer fill, and dry mix, wet mix, and discharge times. As with any process, attention must also be given to preventive maintenance and repairs as necessary. With all of these things in mind, a well-designed quality assurance program, including the use of statistical process control to provide data-driven reviews of performance, is key to ensuring that each of the processes throughout the feed mill do not place limits on the effectiveness of mixing, and that mixing itself is adequate.}, journal={ANIMAL FEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY}, author={Fahrenholz, A. C.}, year={2019}, month={Apr}, pages={51–52} }
 @article{pope_brake_fahrenholz_2018, title={Post-pellet liquid application fat disproportionately coats fines and affects mixed-sex broiler live performance from 16 to 42 d of age}, volume={27}, ISSN={["1537-0437"]}, DOI={10.3382/japr/pfx054}, abstractNote={Abstract The effect of 2 fat application sites (FAS) and 2 levels of fines on feed manufacturing parameters and broiler live performance from 16 to 42 d was studied. The FAS included mixer‐added fat (MAF) and post‐pellet liquid application (PPLA) of fat. While the MAF diets had all fat added to the diet prior to pelleting, the PPLA diets were pelleted with 0.5% MAF, and the remaining 3.5% fat was added subsequent to pellet cooling. The levels of fines included 0 and 30%. A total of 32 pens was placed with 8 males and 8 females (mixed‐sex) in each pen. Broiler chicks were fed a common crumbled starter for approximately 16 d and then transitioned to one of the 4 dietary treatments. The PPLA pellets were more durable than were MAF pellets (P < 0.01), but required more energy to pellet (P < 0.01). When adding liquid fat post pellet to the diets with 30% fines, the fines absorbed more liquid fat and exhibited a greater gross energy when compared to pellets (P < 0.01). Male broilers consuming the PPLA diets were 50, 97, and 120 g heavier than male broilers consuming the MAF diets at 28, 35, and 42 d, respectively (P < 0.01). Female broilers consuming the PPLA diets with 30% fines were 71 and 90 g heavier than female broilers consuming the MAF diets with 30% fines at 28 and 35 d, respectively (P < 0.05). It was concluded that the females may have benefited from consuming high‐energy‐density fines present in the PPLA diets with 30% fines when compared to females consuming MAF diets with 30% fines because the additional fat that coated the fines offset the negative energy associated with prehension of the fines.}, number={1}, journal={JOURNAL OF APPLIED POULTRY RESEARCH}, author={Pope, J. T. and Brake, J. and Fahrenholz, A. C.}, year={2018}, month={Mar}, pages={124–131} }
 @article{cochrane_dritz_woodworth_stark_huss_cano_thompson_fahrenholz_jones_2016, title={Feed mill biosecurity plans: A systematic approach to prevent biological pathogens in swine feed}, volume={24}, number={3}, journal={Journal of Swine Health and Production}, author={Cochrane, R. A. and Dritz, S. S. and Woodworth, J. C. and Stark, C. R. and Huss, A. R. and Cano, J. P. and Thompson, R. W. and Fahrenholz, A. C. and Jones, C. K.}, year={2016}, pages={154–164} }
 @article{lewis_stark_fahrenholz_goncalves_derouchey_jones_2015, title={Effects of pelleting conditioner retention time on nursery pig growth performance}, volume={93}, ISSN={["1525-3163"]}, DOI={10.2527/jas.2014-8072}, abstractNote={A total of 180 nursery pigs (PIC 327 × 1050; initially 12.6 kg) were used in an 18-d study to determine the effects of pellet mill conditioning parameters and feed form on pig performance. All diets were similar, and different feed processing parameters were used to create experimental treatments. Factors considered were conditioning time (15, 30, or 60 s) and feed form (mash or pelleted). To remove the confounding factor of feed form, pelleted samples were reground to a similar particle size as the mash diet. Treatments included: 1) mash diet without thermal processing (negative control), 2) pelleted diet conditioned for 30 s (positive control), 3) pelleted diet conditioned for 15 s and reground, 4) pelleted diet conditioned for 30 s and reground, and 5) pelleted diet conditioned for 60 s and reground. Pigs were weaned and fed a common acclimation diet for 21 d before the start of the experiment. Growth and feed disappearance were then measured for 18 d. All diets had similar levels of percentage total starch, but thermally processed diets had a 1.67 to 1.87-fold increase in percentage gelatinized starch compared to the mash diet. Average daily gain and G:F did not differ between treatments overall, but pigs fed the positive control pelleted diet had decreased ADFI ( < 0.05) compared to pigs fed all other diets. Preplanned contrasts revealed that pigs fed mash diets tended to have greater ADG ( < 0.10) compared to those fed pelleted and reground diets. This suggests that processing may have had a negative influence on feed utilization, which is further supported by the finding that pigs fed mash diets tended to have greater ADG ( < 0.10) compared to those fed diets that were thermally processed, regardless of regrinding. Considering these results, it was not surprising that pigs fed mash diets had greater ADG and ADFI ( < 0.05) than those fed pelleted diets. When directly comparing diets conditioned at 60 rpm, fed either as whole pellets or reground to mash consistency, pigs fed pelleted diets had improved G:F ( < 0.05) due to lower ADFI ( < 0.05) but similar ADG. The expected improvement in G:F from pelleting (6.8%) was observed but lost when diets were reground to near original mash particle size. This may indicate that diet form from the actual pelleting process impacts G:F more than conditioner retention time.}, number={3}, journal={JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Lewis, L. L. and Stark, C. R. and Fahrenholz, A. C. and Goncalves, M. A. D. and DeRouchey, J. M. and Jones, C. K.}, year={2015}, month={Mar}, pages={1098–1102} }
 @article{paulk_hancock_fahrenholz_wilson_mckinny_behnke_2015, title={Effects of sorghum particle size on milling characteristics and growth performance in finishing pigs}, volume={202}, ISSN={0377-8401}, url={http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/J.ANIFEEDSCI.2015.01.017}, DOI={10.1016/J.ANIFEEDSCI.2015.01.017}, abstractNote={A total of 200 finishing pigs (PIC TR4 × 1050; initially 46.8 ± 1.24 kg) were used in a 69-day growth assay to determine the effects of sorghum particle size on growth performance and carcass characteristics. Pigs were sorted by sex, ancestry, and BW with 5 pigs per pen and 10 pens per treatment. Treatments were a corn–soybean meal-based control with the corn milled to a target particle size of 600 μm and sorghum milled to target particle sizes of 800, 600, and 400 μm. Actual mean particle sizes were 555 μm for corn and 724, 573, and 319 μm for sorghum. All diets were pelleted. Pigs were slaughtered (average final BW of 123 kg) at a commercial abattoir. Pigs fed the sorghum-based treatments were not different in growth performance, hot carcass weight, backfat thickness, loin depth, or fat free lean index compared to those fed the corn control; however, there was a tendency for pigs fed sorghum-based treatments to have increased (P<0.09) ADG, ADFI, and dressing percentage. As particle size of sorghum was reduced from 724 to 319 μm, ADG was not affected but G:F increased (linear, P<0.01). Reducing particle size of sorghum had no effect (P>0.23) on hot carcass weight, backfat thickness, loin depth, or fat free lean index, but dressing percentage tended to improve (P<0.06). In conclusion, linear improvements in G:F were demonstrated with reduction of sorghum particle size from 724 to 319 μm. Moreover, our data suggest that the performance of pigs fed corn-based diets were within the range of the responses to those fed sorghum-based diets with varying sorghum particle sizes.}, journal={Animal Feed Science and Technology}, publisher={Elsevier BV}, author={Paulk, C.B. and Hancock, J.D. and Fahrenholz, A.C. and Wilson, J.M. and Mckinny, L.J. and Behnke, K.C.}, year={2015}, month={Apr}, pages={75–80} }
 @article{adedeji_zhou_fang_davis_fahrenholz_alavi_2017, title={Utilization of sorghum distillers dried grains in extruded and steam pelleted shrimp diets}, volume={48}, ISSN={["1365-2109"]}, DOI={10.1111/are.12932}, abstractNote={Use of distillers dried grain with solubles from sorghum (sDDGS) was studied with respect to processing and physicochemical quality of shrimp feed, followed by growth trials with Litopenaeus vannamei (Pacific white shrimp). Shrimp diets with 0%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% sDDGS inclusion, as a replacement for soybean meal, were produced using extrusion and steam pelleting. Bulk density of extruded feed (0.53–0.58 g cm−3) was lower than that of pelleted feed (0.61–0.65 g cm−3), although sDDGS level did not have an impact. Finished diets were 100% sinking, with some exceptions in the case of extruded feed. Pellet durability index (89.4–96.3%) had an increasing trend up to 20% and 30% sDDGS for extruded and pelleted diets respectively. Extruded feed had higher degree of gelatinization than pelleted feed, although proportion of gelatinized starch generally decreased with sDDGS level. Water stability (76.2–91.6%) was higher for extruded feed as compared to pelleted feed, and remained unchanged or decreased with sDDGS level. The extruded and pelleted diets were evaluated in two growth trials with L. vannamei for duration of 9 and 6 weeks in 40 and 60 tanks (initial weight 0.36–0.38 g; 10 shrimps per tank) respectively. Significant differences were not observed in final mean weight and survival with respect to sDDGS level, indicating that up to 40% of this novel protein source can be used in feed formulations without affecting the performance of L. vannamei. Comparison of extruded feed with pelleted feed for impact on mean weight and feed conversion ratio did not yield conclusive results.}, number={3}, journal={AQUACULTURE RESEARCH}, author={Adedeji, Akinbode A. and Zhou, Yangen and Fang, Xiaoyun and Davis, Donald A. and Fahrenholz, Adam and Alavi, Sajid}, year={2017}, month={Mar}, pages={883–898} }
 @article{lewis_stark_fahrenholz_bergstrom_jones_2015, title={Evaluation of conditioning time and temperature on gelatinized starch and vitamin retention in a pelleted swine diet}, volume={93}, ISSN={["1525-3163"]}, DOI={10.2527/jas.2014-8074}, abstractNote={Two key feed processing parameters, conditioning temperature and time, were altered to determine their effects on concentration of gelatinized starch and vitamin retention in a pelleted finishing swine diet. Diet formulation (corn–soybean meal based with 30% distillers dried grains with solubles) was held constant. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial design plus a control with 2 conditioning temperatures (77 vs. 88°C) and 3 conditioner retention times (15, 30, and 60 s). In addition, a mash diet not subjected to conditioning served as a control for a total of 7 treatments. Samples were collected after conditioning but before pelleting (hot mash), after pelleting but before cooling (hot pellet), and after pelleting and cooling (cold pellet) and analyzed for percentage total starch, percentage gelatinized starch, and riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin D3 concentrations. Total percentage starch was increased by greater conditioning temperature (P = 0.041) but not time (P > 0.10), whereas higher temperature and longer time both increased (P < 0.05) percentage gelatinized starch, with increasing time resulting in a linear increase in percentage starch gelatinization (P = 0.013). The interaction between conditioning temperature and time increased percentage gelatinized starch (P = 0.003) but not percentage total starch (P > 0.10). Sample location also affected both percentage total starch and gelatinized starch (P < 0.05), with the greatest increase in percentage gelatinized starch occurring between hot mash and hot pellet samples. As expected, the pelleting process increased percentage gelatinized starch (P = 0.035; 7.3 vs. 11.7% gelatinized starch for hot mash vs. hot pellet samples, respectively), but there was no difference in total starch concentrations (P > 0.10). Finally, neither conditioning temperature nor time affected riboflavin, niacin, or vitamin D3 concentrations (P > 0.10). In summary, both increasing conditioningtemperature and time effect percentage gelatinized starch, but not to the extent of forcing the diet through a pelleting die.}, number={2}, journal={JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE}, author={Lewis, L. L. and Stark, C. R. and Fahrenholz, A. C. and Bergstrom, J. R. and Jones, C. K.}, year={2015}, month={Feb}, pages={615–619} }
 @article{fahrenholz_behnke_mckinney_2013, title={Processing of pelleted feeds using pelleted DDGS as an ingredient}, volume={29}, DOI={10.13031/2013.42522}, abstractNote={An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of including pelleted and re-ground distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) on pellet durability and pellet mill performance in pelleted corn-soy based swine diets. Pelleted and re-ground DDGS have the potential to greatly improve handling and shipping of DDGS because of improvements in material flow and bulk density. The pellet manufacturing experiments were completed at the Department of Grain Science and Industry’s Feed Research Facility at Kansas State University. Pellet durability index (PDI), electrical energy consumption, production rate, and bulk density served as the response criteria. The levels of DDGS evaluated were 10%, 20%, and 30%. Diets containing pelleted and re-ground DDGS were compared to diets with unpelleted DDGS added at the same levels and to a control diet with no added DDGS. Concerning PDI, the diets containing pelleted and re-ground DDGS showed no significant differences from the control at any inclusion level, while the diets containing unpelleted DDGS at 20% and 30% had significantly lower pellet durability than the control. Concerning the production response criteria, the diets containing pelleted and re-ground DDGS were superior or equal to treatments containing unpelleted DDGS. The data demonstrates that pelleted and re-ground DDGS do not negatively impact pellet durability or pelleting performance, and in fact may offer slight benefits, and therefore can be considered as an option for improving some aspects of working with DDGS.}, number={1}, journal={Applied Engineering in Agriculture}, author={Fahrenholz, A. C. and Behnke, K. C. and McKinney, L. J.}, year={2013}, pages={89–92} }