bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune response to bovine respiratory disease vaccine immunogens in calves at entry to feedlot and impact on feedlot performance
Authors: Fulton Robert W. , Cook B. J. , Blood K. Shawn , Confer Anthony W. , Payton Mark E. , Step D. L. , Saliki J. T. , Burge Lurinda  J. , Welsh R. D.
Published: March 2023

Predictors of feedlot performance including clinical illness (morbidity), treatments, cost of treatments, and economic return of calves in a retained ownership program were measured using testing of samples collected at entry from post-weaning calves. At the delivery point, cattle were processed and samples were collected for laboratory testing, including nasal swabs for viral and bacterial isolation, EDTA blood for viral isolation from peripheral blood leukocytes, and serums for antibody testing against bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-I), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) 1a and BVDV2a, parainfluenza-3 virus (PI-3V), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), Mannheimia haemolytica whole cell (WC) antigen, M. haemolytica leukotoxin (LKT), and Pasteurella multocida outer membrane proteins (OMP). Feedlot performance records and carcass data obtained at the close of the feeding period revealed predictors of feedlot performance and economic return based on lower or higher levels of serum antibodies to several BRD pathogens. These were based on both individual animal comparisons and herd averages. On an individual animal basis, low antibodies to BVDV1a, BVDV2a, M. haemolytica WC, M. haemoytica LKT, P. multocida OMP, BHV-1, PI-3V, and BRSV were associated with one or more of the following: increased morbidity, increased number of treatments, increased treatment costs, and decreased net value to owner (carcass value minus total costs in the feedlot). On a herd basis, low antibodies to BVDVIa, BHV-I, P. multocida OMP, M. haemolytica WC, and M. haemolytica LKT were associated with one or more of the following: increased morbidity, increased number of treatments, increased treatment costs, and decreased net value to owner. These results reaffirm that post-weaning calves with increased immunity to (antibody levels) BVDV, BHV-I, PI-3V, BRSV, M. haemolytica, and P. multocida perform better in the feedlot with less effects clinically to these BRD pathogens and provide greater economic return to the owner. Management for the breeding cow-herd owner retaining calves for feedlot delivery should stress vaccination against these pathogens.
Stability of rumen pH measurements obtained postmortem
Authors: Lee T. L. , Thomson D. U. , Wileman B. W.
Published: March 2023

Seventeen 350 lb (159 kg) Holstein steers were utilized to determine stability of rumen pH postmortem. Cattle were randomly assigned to two whole-corn ration treatment groups: (1) limit-fed (7.5 lb; 3.4 kg) or (2) fed ad libitum (9.5 lb; 4.3 kg). Calves were humanely euthanized, rumen fluid was collected, and pH measurements were taken at 0, 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours postmortem. A subset of five rumen samples per treatment at each sampling time was collected for later analysis of volatile fatty acid (VFA) content. No significant time by feeding regimen interactions were noted. The average postmortem rumen pH of calves fed ad libitum (5.7) was significantly lower than cattle limit-fed (6.2; P=0.03). The pH of rumen content increased for the first six hours postmortem, then gradually decreased over the next 18 hours back to initial pH readings (P<0.01). Rumen fluid total VFA concentrations tended to increase over time (P=0.06). Rumen fluid acetate concentration significantly increased (P<0.05), and proprionate concentrations tended to increase over time postmortem (P<0.08). These data indicate that postmortem ruminal pH could be a helpful diagnostic tool when used in conjunction with a complete necropsy.
Case report
Authors: Smith Isaiah , Ellis Roger , Thompson Wanda
Published: March 2023

An outbreak of sulfur toxicosis, with clinical signs and pathologic diagnosis of polioencephalomalacia (PEM), occurred in a case-lot of 150 crossbred, mixed-gender beef calves in northeast Georgia during May and June of 2009. Sixty head of cattle were clinically affected during a four-week period, with 35 of 60 cases resulting in death. Samples of feed, forage, and water were submitted for nutrient analysis. Sulfur concentration was 0.82% (8240 ppm) in the total mixed ration (TMR). Analysis of individual ration components revealed a sulfur concentration of 1.25% (12,500 ppm) in the corn gluten feed (CGF), while water samples had low sulfur concentrations (3.8 ppm). The sulfur content of the TMR was more than twice the maximum tolerable concentration of 0.40% of diet dry matter for cattle. Treatment was attempted with parenteral thiamine/B-vitamin complex and supportive care, with response rates reported as poor. The TMR was reformulated to non-toxic sulfur concentrations by reducing the percentage of CGF in the diet, reducing the daily feed intake, and offering supplemental forage, resulting in cessation of clinical cases.
Case report
Authors: Kristula Michaela A. , Smith Billy I.
Published: March 2023

This case report illustrates how a farm-specific training program aimed at teaching employees to properly manage the cow at parturition can improve animal health on the dairy. Numerous primiparous cows on a 700-cow Holstein dairy farm were reported by the herd veterinarian to have severe intra-pelvic inflammation and uterine infection after calving, requiring extended systemic antibiotic therapy. The farm's previous maternity protocol called for moving cows directly to the maternity pen from the close-up dry cow group when parturition was imminent. Cows were generally moved to the calving pen during the first stage labor. Farm employees were subsequently provided a review of obstetrics principles, and the maternity protocol was revised to move cows to the maternity pen upon reaching second stage labor. Following implementation of the new protocol, average calving ease scores and outcome variables of proportion of cows with veterinary diagnosed metritis, veterinary prescribed penicillin for puerperal metritis, and stillborn calves in 2009 were compared to the herd's previous records from 2008. Average calving ease scores were lower for multiparous cows having heifer calves, and fewer heifer calves required delivery assistance. There were no differences in the other outcome variables, suggesting that multiparous cows could be moved to the maternity pen in either stage 1 or stage 2 labor. In primiparous cows in 2009 compared to 2008. There was a significant decrease in the proportion of primiparous cows delivering bull calves that received veterinary prescribed penicillin treatment for puerperal metritis. In addition, there was a significant decrease in both average calving ease scores and percent of either heifer or bull calves delivered requiring assistance in 2009, suggesting an advantage to waiting until stage 2 labor to move primiparous cows to the maternity pen. Overall, moving cows directly to the maternity pen in stage 2 labor from the close-up pen was an acceptable cow movement strategy on this dairy. Results from this study show that the veterinarian is ideally suited to provide farm-specific employee training, and well trained employees managing dairy cows at calving time will improve postpartum dairy cow health and welfare.
Quantifying shape of lactation curves, and benchmark curves for common dairy breeds and parities
Authors: Ehrlich J. L.
Published: March 2023

The MilkBot®(DairySight LLC,Argyle, NY; http://milkbot.com) lactation model provides a means of quantifying both shape and magnitude oflactation curves as a set of parameter values, each of which is associated with a single aspect of lactation curve shape. Lactation data may be fitted to the model to summarize a lactation as a set of parameter values which summarize the lactation as a whole. The scale parameter controls magnitude without changing the shape of the curve, the ramp parameter controls steepness of the post-parturient rise in milk production, the decay parameter controls the rate of late lactation decline, and the offset parameter defines a theoretical offset between the start of milk production and calving. The decay parameter is easily re-expressed mathematically as persistence to quantify the rate of decline in production after peak milk. Time and quantity of peak milk, or production for any day or period in the lactation may be calculated directly from parameter values.

Aggregate normal lactation curves for mean and median milk production of Holstein, Jersey, Crossbred, Guernsey, Ayrshire, and Brown Swiss dairy cattle, stratified by parity, are calculated from a DHIA data set collected from 2005 through mid-2008 and covering over six million lactations and 51 million milk weights, mainly from farms in the eastern United States. These constitute benchmark curves that may be used as standards for normal milk production, or to quantify changes in normal productivity over time or with respect to other variables, or in econometric studies.
AABP Association and Conference News
Authors: American Association of Bovine Practioners
Published: March 2023

Description and highlights of the 43rd Annual Convention American Association of Bovine Practitioners (2010) and information about officers, district news, events, awards, and other news.
Developing a practice-based microbiological laboratory to guide mastitis treatment on dairy farms
Authors: Bennett James W. , Gardner Joanna L.
Published: March 2023

Culture-based treatment of mastitis has been advocated to reduce expenses of treatment and discarded milk and to improve treatment results. Ideally, identification of mastitis pathogens should be performed in a laboratory accessible to dairy farms within a reasonable amount of time. Results can usually be made available to farms the following day, before the time of day that treatments are normally administered. Mastitis pathogens can be successfully identified in a practice-based laboratory using standardized methods. Examples of specific, step-by-step methods, including needed materials, are described to aid in developing and operating a mastitis laboratory. A novel method of reporting results utilizing Google Docs is described.
Case report
Authors: Smith Julia M. , Whitlock Robert H.
Published: March 2023

Diagnostic specimens collected postmortem from a seven-month-old, 275 lb (125 kg), unweaned, emaciated Blonde bull calf born to a Johne's-infected dam confirmed infection with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). This case represents the third generation in one line of cattle to be infected with MAP. Transmission of infection from dam to calf is an important means of sustaining Johne's disease in cow-calf herds. Not all submitted tissue samples cultured positive for MAP, illustrating the need to submit an adequate number of samples from appropriate locations to make a positive diagnosis. Positive cultures from composite environmental samples coincided with the presence of the clinically-affected dam of this calf.
Trends in export of dairy Holstein heifers from the United States
Authors: Kristula Michaela A. , Smith Billy I. , Garber Jon , Stock Mathew L.
Published: March 2023

A general overview of the export and testing requirements is given for bred female dairy cattle from the United States (US) to Turkey, Mexico, and Russia, the top three export markets. Disease-by-disease serologic test results are presented for 7,339 Holstein dairy heifers tested in quarantine in southeastern Chester County, Pennsylvania for export to Turkey from June 2010 to October 2011. Management practices to decrease the prevalence of diseases of importance to the export market are reviewed. Prevalence rates of serologically positive heifers tested during the quarantine period using the enzyme linked-immunosorbent assay were: bluetongue virus (BTV) 4.9%, Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) 0.65%, and bovine leukemia virus (BLV) 5.7%. Prevalence rate of bovine viral diarrhea virus - persistently infected (BVDV PI) heifers using pooled polymerase chain reaction was 0.68%. Because of the high prevalence of BLV in US cattle, most if not all heifers are routinely screened for BLV prior to purchase and entry into quarantine. Some of the heifers in this data set originating from endemic BTV states were pre-screened for BTV. Because of pre-screening for BLV prior to purchase for export, the prevalence of BLV reported was lower than would be expected in the general population of heifers in the US. The prevalence of BTV would depend on whether heifers came from BTV free or endemic states. Dairy herds wanting to market heifers for export should apply management practices known to decrease the prevalence of BTV, BLV, MAP, and BVDV PI.
Clinical findings, blood chemistry values, and epidemiologic data from dairy goats with pregnancy toxemia
Authors: Lima M. S. , Pascoal R. A. , Stilwell G. T. , Hjerpe C. A.
Published: March 2023

Pregnancy toxemia is one of the most common diseases in sheep and goats occurring during the last month of gestation. Clinical signs and blood chemistry findings from 22 clinical cases of pregnancy toxemia in dairy goats are described. All were maintained on a single farm that used an intensive dry-lot production system. Clinical signs observed most consistently were anorexia, ruminal atony, polypnea, drooping ears, a preference for recumbency with reluctance to stand or walk, swelling (subcutaneous edema) of the limbs, inability to stand or walk, and neurological signs. Major blood chemistry results showed decreased potassium, glucose, pH, bicarbonate, base excess, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2). The prognosis was very poor in goats with a case fatality rate of 86%, even though a caesarean section was performed or kidding was induced, and medical treatments were administered in an attempt to correct the underlying glucose deficit and metabolic acidosis. The mortality rate was 100% in 11 does with pregnancy toxemia when the blood pH was 7.122 or lower.
Case report
Authors: Kraus Brendan , Fulton Robert W. , Johnson Bill J. , Sjeklocha David B.
Published: March 2023

There are several different methods of testing cattle for persistent infection with bovine viral diarrhea virus (PI-BVDV), including immunohistochemistry (IHC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), virus isolation, and antigen capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ACE). The purpose of this report is to describe a case in which a pooled PCR test (28 specimens/pool) was compared for sensitivity against an ACE test (tested as single specimens). Ear notch specimens (fresh) were collected from beef calves purchased by a stocker operation. From January through March 2010, this stocker operation received 2,424 calves and took two ear-notch specimens from each calf for PI-BVDV testing. One specimen from each calf was sent to a commercial PI-BVDV testing laboratory that utilizes real-time PCR technology in specimen pools of 28 (Laboratory A), and a second specimen was sent to a commercial PI-BVDV testing laboratory that utilizes ACE (NS23) technology using non-pooled specimens (Laboratory B). Laboratory A detected four positive specimens out of the 2,424 specimens submitted (0.165% PI prevalence), while Laboratory B detected 12 positive specimens out of the 2,424 specimens submitted (0.495% PI prevalence). The 12 specimens detected by Laboratory B included the same four detected by Laboratory A, as well as eight additional positive specimens. Upon receiving these discordant results, the attending veterinarian requested that the 12 positive specimens detected by Laboratory B be re-tested using the original specimens. These original 12 ACE-positive specimens were then re-tested as single specimens at Laboratory B using a commercially available ACE test (Erns) and real-time PCR technology. The 12 original ACE-positive specimens were again positive by these different tests. Follow-up testing on the 12 calves was conducted more than 30 days after initial testing with a second set of samples from the eight surviving calves (four of the 12 calves died between the original and the second collection). The second set of samples from the eight surviving calves initially ACE-positive by Laboratory B were tested using serum, formalin-fixed ear notches, and fresh ear notches in phosphate buffered saline. All specimens were positive by gel-based reverse transcriptase PCR on serum and ear notches (non-pooled), and all eight formalin-fixed notches were also positive by IHC.
Investigation of an abortion epidemic due to Neospora caninum in a beef herd on pasture
Authors: Arnold L. Michelle
Published: March 2023

An outbreak of epidemic abortion in a commercial cow-calf herd was investigated. Within 3 weeks of the index cases, 69 reproductive abnormalities were recorded consisting of abortions, stillbirths, and premature calves born alive but dying within 24 hours. By the conclusion of the calving season, 85 abnormal reproductive outcomes were reported out of 154 cows at risk. The epidemiologic pattern of abortion highly suggested a point-source exposure. Results of diagnostic tests implicated Neospora caninum as the causative agent of abortion. Eleven aborted fetuses were submitted for diagnostic evaluation, and all had lesions consistent with protozoal abortion. The diagnosis was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction assays and immunohistochemical tests performed on brain tissue from 2 aborted fetuses. Once the diagnosis was made, no treatment options were available. Serologic testing was performed to determine the seroprevalence in the herd and the statistical correlation of a positive serum test to an abnormal reproductive outcome. Control measures were instituted to decrease the presence of the organism in the herd and the risk of horizontal and vertical transmission of the organism. Clinically, N. caninum is widely recognized as an important infectious cause of reproductive loss in cattle, and vertical transmission of the protozoan from infected dams to their progeny is considered the major mode of infection and maintenance of the parasite within the population. However, the consequence of a point-source exposure and horizontal transmission in a susceptible population at or near the same vulnerable stage of gestation can be an abortion epidemic, as evidenced by this outbreak.
Influence of tilmicosin on quantified pulmonary concentrations of three bacterial pathogens in calves with naturally-occurring bovine respiratory disease
Authors: Allen Travis H. , Johnson Edward G. , Edmonds Matthew D. , Gould Jared A.
Published: March 2023

A randomized trial was conducted to determine the lower respiratory tract pathogen load in cattle at risk of developing bovine respiratory disease (BRD). The objectives were to characterize and quantify concentrations of respiratory pathogens in the main-stem bronchi before and after administration of tilmicosin as a treatment for BRD.Ninety-three beef steers and heifers were selected from a group of 421 high-risk calves based on a BRD case definition that included clinical score and rectal temperature parameters. Three calves meeting the BRD case definition constituted a cohort; 1 animal within a cohort served as an untreated control, whereas the remaining 2 received 6.75 mg/lb (14.85 mg/kg) of body weight tilmicosin. An aliquot of solution obtained via lavage of the main-stem bronchi upon enrollment and at 72, 144, and 216 hours post-enrollment was serially diluted and cultured for respiratory bacteria.Treated animals had significant reductions (P<0.05) in Mannheimia haemolytica concentrations at each post-enrollment time point compared to untreated controls, while concentrations of Histophilus somni at 144 and 216 hours post-enrollment were lower than untreated controls. Rectal temperature was also reduced (P<0.05) at all post-enrollment sampling times in calves treated with tilmicosin. An improvement (P<0.05) in clinical score during the post-enrollment period was noted for calves receiving tilmicosin.
AABP Conference (2012): 3rd Annual Quiz Bowl
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 45th American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference, 2012.
AABP Conference (2012): Executive Vice President’s Report
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 45th American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference, 2012.
Considerations for control of helminths in stocker cattle
Authors: Yazwinski T. A. , Tucker C. A. , Powell J. , Jones L. , Wray E.
Published: March 2023

Many factors influence the spectrum and magnitude of helminth populations in stocker cattle. Calves are placed into stocker operations during all seasons, from all regions of the country, and with a broad range of prior parasite exposure and parasiticide treatment. This makes it unlikely that a generalized or generic parasite control program will be effective for all animals at receiving. Follow-up treatment recommendations are equally problematic, contingent upon the success of the treatment protocol utilized when cattle arrived at the stocker operation, residual activity of the anthelmintic(s) used at arrival, parasite challenge during the stocker phase, general animal health, and producer expectations. At the farm or ranch level, the more troublesome and conflicted considerations regarding parasite control are often ignored, and treatments are based on what appears to have worked in the past or the current cost of treatment options. This paper is not intended to make detailed recommendations about worm control, but is instead a discussion of factors at play in stocker cattle, including the species of the parasites, biology of the parasites, parasiticides, and the interaction and effect of these factors on the health and productivity of stocker cattle.
Clinical efficacy of gamithromycin versus florfenicol for the treatment of undifferentiated fever in winter-placed feedlot calves
Authors: Van Donkersgoed Joyce , Hendrick Steve
Published: March 2023

A study was conducted in Alberta, Canada utilizing 4 commercial feedlots to compare the clinical efficacy of gamithromycin to florfenicol for the initial treatment of undifferentiated fever (UF) in winter-placed feedlot calves. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in UF relapse rates and crude case fatality or bovine respiratory disease/histophilus fatality rates between the 2 treatment groups. As a result, the cost-benefit of gamithromycin versus florfenicol was based on the difference in treatment cost between the 2 drugs. Using current market prices and a treatment weight of 750 lb (340 kg), gamithromycin had an economic advantage of $11.52 CAN per head over florfenicol.
Review of host pulmonary defenses with reference to cattle
Authors: Banse Heidi , Wollums Amelia , Step D. L.
Published: March 2023

Bovine respiratory disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality for the cattle industry. Cattle can be protected from respiratory disease by both structural and dynamic defense mechanisms of the respiratory tract, which are critical for prevention of pathogen entry and colonization. Dynamic defenses include those mediated by the innate and adaptive branches of the immune response. The immune response to pathogens is complex, and requires immune cell migration, proliferation, and adaptation. Secretion of molecules, including cytokines, host defense peptides, and opsonins, by cells within the respiratory tract promotes respiratory defense, including pathogen neutralization and phagocytosis. Ongoing discoveries in the field of immunology should guide the development of novel immunotherapeutic interventions for the prevention and treatment of bovine respiratory disease.
Survey of veterinarians in 6 US states regarding their experience with nursing beef calf respiratory disease
Authors: Woolums Amelia R. , Berghaus Roy D. , Smith David R. , White Brad J. , Engelken Terry J. , Irsik Max B. , Matlik Darin K. , Jones A. Lee , Smith Isaiah J.
Published: March 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the leading cause of death of nursing beef calves 3 weeks of age and older, but little is known regarding risk factors for calf BRD. The objective of this survey was to describe observations and practices relevant to calf BRD by veterinarians in cow-calf practice. Recipients in Eastern (Georgia, Florida, and West Virginia) and Plains (Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska) states were asked to complete an on-line questionnaire regarding events occurring between August 2011 and July 2012. A total of 574 veterinarians were solicited to participate; 61 (10.6%) returned responses suitable for inclusion, with an equivalent proportion responding from both regions. Respondents reported that 18% of their cow-calf clients recognized cases of nursing-calf BRD in the previous year, and 14% of their clients had at least 1 calf die of BRD. Infectious agents identified by antemortem or postmortem testing included Mannheimia haemolytica (60% of respondents); Pasteurella multocida (53%); Mycoplasma bovis (37%); bovine respiratory syncytial virus (33%); and bovine viral diarrhea virus (33%). Of responding veterinarians, 80% recommended or administered treatment for an outbreak of nursing-calf BRD in the previous year. Routine administration of respiratory vaccines to nursing beef calves was recommended by 87% of respondents. Respondents identified a variety of risk factors as potentially associated with calf BRD. Two of these, "introduction of cattle from outside sources" and "occurrence of diarrhea in calves", were also significantly associated with nursing-calf BRD in a previous survey of producers in the same states.
Survey of veterinarians and hoof trimmers on methods applied to treat claw lesions in dairy cattle
Authors: Kleinhenz Katie E. , Plummer Paul J. , Danielson Jared , Burzette Rebecca G. , Gorden Patrick J. , Coetzee Johann , Schleining Jennifer A. , Cooper Vickie , Leuschen Bruce , Krull Adam , Shearer Leslie , Shearer Jan K.
Published: March 2023

A survey was administered to members of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) and the Hoof Trimmers Association (HTA) to identify various treatment methods for claw horn lesions. A total of 345 people responded to the survey, of which 196 identified themselves as members of AABP, 111 as members of HTA, 9 as having membership in both organizations, and 29 providing no information as to affiliation with either of these organizations. A total of 307 respondents were included in the final analysis. The majority of veterinarians (80%) indicated that their knowledge about foot care was part of their veterinary education, 34% developed or refined their skills and understanding through experience and attendance at various continuing education programs, and 9% cited additional training from attendance at a formalized foot care program. Training cited by hoof trimmers included the following: 65% apprenticeship with another trimmer, 41% professional hoof care training program, and 30% learning primarily through experience. Sixty-eight percent of veterinarians reported removing all loose horn adjacent to the lesion without causing it to bleed, compared to 86% of hoof trimmers (P less than 0.01). Seventy-six percent of veterinarians reported routine application of a foot block to the sound (healthy) claw when treating sole ulcers compared to 86% of hoof trimmers (P less than 0.05). Topical medications for ulcers and abscessed claw horn lesions were used by 59% of veterinarians and 53% of hoof trimmers. The medication used most frequently was the powder form of tetracycline or oxytetracycline (48% by veterinarians and 81% by hoof trimmers). The majority of survey participants did not recommend withholding milk following topical treatment with tetracycline or oxytetracycline. Both survey groups agreed that sole ulcers were a painful condition, but the majority of veterinarians did not recommend analgesics for the treatment of sole ulcer lesions.
Designing a mobile application for field use on dairies experiencing a toxicologic event
Authors: Gallego Steven , Kinde Hailu
Published: March 2023

Large-scale toxic events on dairies can be difficult emotionally and financially. Many diseases of animals manifest over predicable time frames, whereas toxic events can appear quite suddenly and unexpectedly. Severity of toxic signs can range from non-clinical to clinical. Mortality rates can vary, but in today's concentrated animal feeding units high mortalities can be quite devastating. In addition to the potential disruption of milk shipped and cows lost, a toxic event also presents a possible food safety and public health issue that potentially erodes consumer confidence. Quick and accurate assessment of a toxic event is crucial for the health of both the animals and people consuming products derived from affected animals. The objective of this paper is to describe a smartphone or tablet application (app) that can be downloaded to assist field personnel investigating a toxic event.
Implementation of industry-oriented animal welfare and quality assurance assessment in Kansas cattle feeding operations
Authors: Barnhardt Tera R. , Thomson Daniel U. , Terrell Shane P. , Rezac Darrell J. , Frese Daniel A. , Reinhardt Chris D.
Published: March 2023

Consumer interest in production agriculture has prompted the beef industry to develop tools to increase accountability of producers for animal management practices. The Beef Quality Assurance Feedyard Assessment, developed by veterinarians, animal scientists, and production specialists, was used to objectively evaluate key areas of beef cattle production such as animal handling, antimicrobial residue avoidance, and cattle comfort in 56 Kansas feedyards. During the assessment, management protocols were reviewed, facilities and pens were inspected, and cattle handling practices were observed. Of the 56 feedyards, 19 maintained complete and current documentation of Best Management Practices for all management protocols required by the assessment. During assessment of cattle handling practices, 78.6% of feedyards met requirements for an Acceptable score for all measured criteria. An electric prod was used on only 4.0% of cattle during processing. In addition, 83.0% of feedyards scored Acceptable for all stocking rate, feed bunk, water tank, and mud score standards.
Case study
Authors: Hairgrove Thomas , Gill Ron , Redmon Larry , Rouquette Monte , Warner Gary
Published: March 2023

Fourteen of 19 Corriente roping cattle became acutely ill and died after consuming hay containing johnsongrass, and then introduced into a pasture of Tifton 85 bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon Pers ? C. nlemfuensis Vanderyst). The presumptive diagnosis was hydrocyanic acid toxicity (HCN) due to consumption of the bermudagrass. Tifton 85 bermudagrass has been utilized extensively for grazing cattle in the southern United States for 20 years with no reports suggesting HCN toxicity. In this case there was lack of a thorough diagnostic workup, and there were discordant results between laboratories. This case emphasizes that producers should be aware of the potential for toxicity due to nitrates or HCN in any forage, but a complete and prompt diagnostic investigation with appropriate collection of fresh samples is imperative for a definitive diagnosis.
Field study to evaluate the effects of meloxicam NSAID therapy and calving assistance on newborn calf vigor, improvement of health and growth in pre-weaned Holstein calves
Authors: Murray Christine F. , Haley Derek B. , Duffield Todd F. , Pearl David L. , Deelen Sam M. , Leslie Ken E.
Published: March 2023

The objective of this research was to evaluate the usefulness of a novel calf VIGOR assessment tool to measure birth trauma and associations with future health and growth. In addition, pain management therapy using meloxicam injectable solution was evaluated for calves suffering from birth trauma and reduced vigor. A total of 842 heifer and bull calves from 10 commercial dairy herds were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind clinical field trial. At birth, newborn VIGOR was evaluated by the dairy producer to assess the Visual appearance, Initiation of movement, General responsiveness, Oxygenation, as well as heart and respiration Rate of the calf. Subsequently, calves were administered either a 1.0 mL subcutaneous injection of meloxicam or placebo solution. Each calf was measured for growth and assessed using a standardized clinical score for health at 1, 2, 3, and 6 weeks of age. Compared to unassisted calvings, calves born with assistance had lower vigor. Assisted calves treated with meloxicam had improved weight gain in the first week compared to placebo-treated calves. In contrast, treatment with meloxicam resulted in lower gains in observed but unassisted calves. Calves with improved newborn vigor and better health had significantly greater weight gain up to 6 weeks of age. Meloxicam-treated calves had better health from birth to 6 weeks of age. Overall, the calf VIGOR score is a good indicator of trauma at calving. Meloxicam therapy shows promise for improving health and growth, particularly for calves born with assistance.
Acute puerperal metritis
Authors: Credille Brent C. , Giguere Steeve
Published: March 2023

Acute puerperal metritis is a common disease in postpartum dairy cattle. This disease causes significant economic losses as affected cows experience reduced milk production, increased culling risk, and impaired reproductive performance. Acute puerperal metritis is invariably associated with bacterial colonization and infection of the uterus. As a result, antimicrobials are a mainstay of therapy for this disease. Optimal dosing of antimicrobial agents is essential to therapeutic success, and designing dosing regimens requires an integration of both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles. The goals of this article are to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of antimicrobial treatment options in cattle with acute puerperal metritis, and review the principles of antimicrobial pharmacodynamics.
Comparative efficacy of ceftiofur crystalline free acid and florfenicol-flunixin meglumine for undifferentiated fever treatment in feedlot calves administered tulathromycin metaphylactically on arrival
Authors: Behlke Eric J. , Hannon Sherry J. , Perrett Tye , Schunicht Oliver C. , McMullen Christopher A. , Wildman Brian K. , Fenton R. Kent , Burciaga-Robles Luis O. , May Matthew L. , Jim G. Kee , Abutarbush Sameeh M. , Booker Calvin W.
Published: March 2023

A field study was conducted at commercial feedlots to compare the relative efficacy of ceftiofur crystalline free acid (CCFA) and florfenicol-flunixin meglumine (FFM) for undifferentiated fever (UF) treatment in calves that were administered tulathromycin metaphylactically on arrival. At the time of initial diagnosis of UF, experimental calves (n=1,056) were randomly allocated to 2 experimental groups, CCFA and FFM. Calves in the CCFA group (n=530) were administered 3.0 mg/lb (6.6 mg/kg) BW of ceftiofur crystalline free acid subcutaneously (SC) at the base of the ear. Calves in the FFM group (n=526) were administered a combination of 18.1 mg/lb (40.0 mg/kg) florfenicol+1.0 mg/lb (2.2 mg/kg) flunixin meglumine SC in the neck region. The first UF relapse treatment rate was lower in the CCFA group compared to the FFM group (P=0.011). The third UF relapse treatment rate was also reduced in the CCFA group (P=0.032), but no difference was detected in the second UF relapse treatment rate between the 2 groups. No differences in overall chronicity, wastage, salvage slaughter, or mortality rates were detected between the 2 groups at the P?0.05 level. There was a net economic advantage of $10.35/treated animal in the CCFA group, driven primarily by the lower initial UF treatment cost when compared to the FFM group.
Comparison of ivermectin and extended-release eprinomectin deworming treatment on stocker and subsequent feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of fall-born Angus heifers
Authors: Clark C. A. , Gunn P. J.
Published: March 2023

The effect of deworming beef heifers with either ivermectin or extended-release eprinomectin on performance and carcass characteristics of stocker and feedlot cattle was assessed. Sixty Angus heifers (610 +/- 50 lb initial body weight; 277 +/- 23 kg) were blocked by body condition score and body weight, and allotted to 1 of 2 injectable deworming treatments after grazing summer pasture for 35 days: (1) ivermectin (IVM) or (2) extended-release eprinomectin (ERE). After 63 days grazing, heifers were placed in a feedlot and fed a finishing ration for 150 days. Heifers were stratified by BW within grazing treatment and allotted to receive ivermectin (dewormed; DWRM) or no treatment during processing (NO) at feedlot entry. Although fecal egg counts did not differ at treatment initiation, egg counts were greater in the IVM group (5.138 eggs per gram) than in the ERE group (0.073 EPG) at the end of the grazing period (P less than 0.01). Heifers in the ERE group had greater average daily gain and greater body weight change (P=0.01) during the grazing period. There were no differences in feedlot performance or carcass characteristics (P greater than or equal to 0.09) between treatment groups. Based on this study, there may be no benefit to deworming at feedlot arrival when cattle are effectively managed to minimize internal parasite infection during the grazing period. However, even at extremely low levels of infection during grazing, parasites can significantly impact performance.
A description of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis outbreaks in West Virginia beef herds
Authors: Gingrich Fred
Published: March 2023

Infectious bovine keeratoconjuctivitis (IBK) is the most important ocular disease of cattle. Prevention and control of the disease can prove challengin, and the list of potential etiologic agens has expanded in recent years. Little has been recently published characterizing IBK outbreaks at the herd level. This case series investigation was conducted to describe the disease characteristics and management practices in herds affected by IBK outbreaks in 1 practice area in West Virginia in 2019. Seven producers were interviewed: 6 cow-calf producers and 1 stocker producer. Prdocuers were asked questions pertaining to disease severity and management, such as herd health protocols and husbandry. In addition, organisms from each of the  herds were identified by culture and/or PCR. Results revealed a range of disease incidence as well as similarities and differences in management practices among herds. The interpretability of results is limted due to small sample size and data colelction method; however, results suggest that some herds in the area where producers were interviewed experienced severe IBK outbreaks, and that some management practices relevant to IBK were similar between herds. Results also suggest that further study to identify poorly characterized IBK risk factors is warrented.
Effect of respiratory vaccine components and route of delivery on weight gain and inflammatory response in suckling beef calves
Authors: Engelken Terry J. , Roth James A. , Renter David G. , Meyer Brent D. , Burdett William W. , Hill Kevin L.
Published: March 2023

Two randomized studies of Angus beef calves (n = 110) from 2 Iowa locations were used to determine the effect of vaccine type and route of administration on weight gain and inflammatory response. The first vaccine contained avirulent-live Mannheimia haemolytica (type A1) and Pasteu- rella multocida (type A3), and was administered intranasally (IN group). The second vaccine contained an adjuvanted M. haemolytica (type Al) toxoid and was administered subcutaneously (SC group). Control calves (CON) were given the same volume (2 mL) of sterile saline SC as other calves. At the time of vaccination (day 0), calf body weight (BW) and body temperature (BT) were recorded, and a blood sample was collected for serum haptoglobin analysis. Blood collection and BT measurement were repeated on days 1, 2, and 3 while BW was recorded on days 3 and 21 (location 1) or 24 (location 2) after vaccination. A final BW was taken at weaning at both locations. Changes in BW among calves during the first 3 days after vaccination were not significantly different across treatment groups. At location 1, calves given SC vaccine had a higher average BT compared to IN-vaccinated calves (P < 0.01). Body temperature also tended to be higher in SC-vaccinated calves (P = 0.08) compared to CON calves. At location 2, BT was not different between vaccinated groups, but vaccinated calves had higher BT compared to CON calves (P< 0.01). Over the 21-day trial period at location 1, average daily gain (ADG) in calves given SC vaccine was lower compared to CON calves (P = 0.04). At location 2, ADG was not significantly different among treatments, but IN calves had heavier final weights compared to other treatment groups (P < 0.01). Serum haptoglobin levels were higher for SC calves compared to IN and CON calves on days 1, 2, and 3 following vaccination (P < 0.01). Mean weight gain and ADG from vaccination through weaning tended to be greater (P = 0.06) for IN calves at location 1, but were not different at location 2.
AABP Conference (2016): Minutes of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Annual Business Luncheon
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 2016 American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
AABP Conference (2016): Executive Vice President's Report
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 2016 American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
AABP Conference (2016): Awards
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 2016 American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference.
AABP Conference (2016): Welcoming Receptions and Opening Ceremony
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Conference, 2016.
AABP Conference (2016): Alumni Receptions
Authors: Bovine Practitioners American Association of
Published: March 2023

Description of the 2016 American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
Case report
Authors: Cox Elizabeth A. , Ridpath Julia F. , Falkenberg Shollie M.
Published: March 2023

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) continues to be a challenge for the cattle industry despite routine vaccination that includes killed or modified-live BVDV antigens. At a commercial dairy, 1,081 newborn calves were tested for BVDV antigen by pooled reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction as part of a screening program. Immunohistochemistry confirmed persistent BVDV infections in 13 calves. Ten of the PI calves were available for BVD typing. Both cytopathic and non-cytopathic BVD viruses were isolated. The non-CPE viruses typed as BVD type lb with a total of 3 different strains found; an identical strain found in 2 calves, another identical strain found in 2 other calves, and a third identical strain found in 3 other calves. A BVDV control program relying solely on BVD vaccination using a modified-live vaccine did not protect calves in this herd from persistent infection with type lb BVDV. These results demonstrate that control programs that rely only on vaccination to control BVDV without testing for the presence of PI animals are not adequate to control BVD.
Review of epizootic hemorrhagic disease in cattle and a study defining seroprevalence of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2 in Texas cattle
Authors: Hairgrove Thomas B. , Rodgers Sandy M. , Cook Walter M. , Budke Christine M. , Smith William B.
Published: March 2023

Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus is an orbivirus transmitted by Culicoides spp. In North America, it is recognized as a major cause of disease affecting white-tailed deer, but it can impact other wildlife species as well as domestic cattle. Although minimal clinical disease had been noted in Texas, periodic outbreaks in other states caused Texas cattle producers to question the risks to their cattle. The objective of this study was to estimate the proportion of Texas cattle exposed to epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2 by observing seroprevalence in auction markets. Serum samples collected from cattle >18 mo of age sold through 11 Texas auction markets were collected during June of 2014. Antibody levels were measured using the virus neutralization test as the diagnostic protocol. Market sampling indicated 97.08% of adult cattle had been exposed to epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2. There were no significant differences in mean titers between individual markets. However, when markets were grouped there was a significant mean titer difference between groups, increasing in the southern and western regions. The lack of clinical disease is likely related to enzootic stability as a result of high viral infections in cattle and white-tailed deer and the abundance of Culicoides vectors.
Randomized trial to compare the efficacy of tildipirosin and tulathromycin for initial treatment of bovine respiratory disease in naturally exposed commercial feedlot heifers
Authors: Dodd Charles C. , Bechtol David T. , Waite Audie , Corbin Marilyn , Renter David G.
Published: March 2023

This clinical trial compared health and performance outcomes between commercial feeder heifers that received either tulathromycin (TUL] or tildipirosin (TLD] for initial treatment of bovine respiratory disease (BRD]. Study heifers, predominately Angus-cross (503.44 lb [228.36 kg] mean body weight], were recently received at a west Texas feedlot from Kentucky, Alabama, and Arkansas, and did not receive metaphylaxis. An experienced pen rider, blinded to treatment groups throughout the study, observed heifers daily for clinical signs of BRD. Six hundred heifers, with either mild BRD and a rectal temperature > 104°F (40°C], or moderate to severe BRD regardless of rectal temperature, were randomly allocated to receive either TUL (100 mg/mL, 1.13 mg/lb [2.5 mg/kg] body weight] or TLD (180 mg/mL, 1.81 mg/lb [4 mg/kg] body weight]. Heifers were randomly allocated to 12 commingled pens, each holding 25 hd of each treatment group (50 hd total/pen]. Data were analyzed with linear mixed models for a randomized complete block design. There were no significant differences among treatment groups for baseline allocation data or for measures of body weight (P=0.52] or average daily gain (deads-out] at re-implant (P=0.20) or close-out (P=0.85]. However, first treatment success was significantly better (P= 0.05] for TUL (67.17%; 95% confidence interval 60.08 - 73.56%] than for TLD cattle (59.26; 51.91 - 66.23%]. Second and third treatment success, and the percent designated as BRD chronics, did not differ significantly between groups (P-values > 0.10], The TUL treated heifers had significantly (P-values = 0.02] less BRD mortality (4.95%; 2.89 - 8.35] and overall mortality (5.94%; 3.61 - 9.61] as compared to TLD treated heifers (10.25%; 6.88 -15.02, and 11.56%; 7.90 -16.62, respectively]. Overall, TUL as initial BRD treatment resulted in significantly better health outcomes as compared to TLD treatment in this study population.