bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practicing veterinarian's experience with an undercover activist's video
Authors: Palmer George
Published: February 2023

A radical animal rights activist group with a vegan agenda placed an undercover employee on the farm of one of my clients to record a video that was released to the national media as part of their campaign to discredit the dairy industry. The sudden rush of unwanted attention from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals video was a severe challenge to the farm and also my clinic. Such videos are designed for emotional impact, but with help from partners within the dairy industry, we made every effort to answer questions openly and to show our concern for the well-being of animals. Such incidents should spur the industry to engage in a wider discussion of farm practices. Farmers who are targeted need to be proactive in telling their story, and need to connect with consumers on an emotional level by showing their empathy for animals and accepting responsibility.
Genetic testing in beef practice
Authors: Osterstock Jason B.
Published: February 2023

Genomic technologies are emerging as an important tool in beef genetic improvement strategies. Genetic tests are used extensively by many progressive seedstock breeders to increase accuracy of selection and accelerate genetic progress. Increasing use of these technologies in the seedstock sector have also led to development of applications for commercial cattle. There are several keys to technical evaluation of genomic technologies. The first is the accuracy of the prediction which can be expressed as a genetic correlation or an increase in accuracy of EPDs when incorporated into genetic evaluation. The second is the association between the prediction and the observed phenotype. In the case of the genomically enhanced EPD, this is implicit in the reported accuracy. For commercial applications, this should include some external validation of the predictions in a population independent of that used for the development of the test. Provided these validation criteria are met, the application of the technology is very straightforward and effectively the same as historical practices. The principal differences are that the selection decisions can be made earlier in life with greater accuracy, including for traits that are not expressed phenotypically until much later in life. This accelerates genetic progress by minimizing selection mistakes and allowing producers to identify and exploit superior genetics much sooner than with traditional approaches.
Double vision
Authors: Fricke Paul M.
Published: February 2023

Twinning in Holstein dairy cows has increased over time concurrent with increased milk production. More than 95% of twins in Holsteins arise due to double ovulations resulting in dizygotic twins. It is now clear that low progesterone during growth of a preovulatory follicle increases the incidence of double ovulation. Increased hepatic metabolism of progesterone as a result of the increased feed intake associated with high milk production provides a physiological mechanism for decreased progesterone levels in high-producing dairy cows resulting in an increase in di zygotic twinning. Twinning will likely continue to increase with milk production over time, so strategies to effectively manage twinning in dairy cows need to be identified and implemented. Cows carrying unilateral twins had greater pregnancy loss compared to cows carrying bilateral twins, and bilateral twins had increased survival and body weight at birth, a longer gestation length, and less dystocia than unilateral twins. Selective embryo reduction by manual rupture of the amnion followed by progesterone treatment did not increase the risk of pregnancy loss for cows with unilateral twins but increased the risk of loss for cows with bilateral twins. Hormonal synchronization protocols that increase progesterone during development of the preovulatory follicle increase conception rate, decrease pregnancy loss, and decrease double ovulation rate thereby decreasing twinning in high-producing dairy cows. Twinning can be decreased in high-producing dairy cows using a two-pronged approach. First, the incidence of double ovulation and dizygotic twinning can be decreased in high-producing Holstein cows by manipulating ovarian function to increase progesterone during growth of the preovulatory follicle before timed AI. Second, cows identified with bilateral twins using transrectal ultrasonography early during gestation should be allowed to continue gestation with extra assistance provided at calving, whereas selective reduction can be attempted for cows diagnosed with unilateral twins.
Effect of macroenvironment and microenvironment temperature and humidity on the risk of respiratory disease in pre-weaned dairy calves during summer months
Authors: Louie A. P. , Rowe J. D. , Lehenbauer T. W. , Williams D. R. , Love W. J. , Rossitto P. V. , Aly S. S.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this cohort study was to evaluate the association between exposure to temperature and humidity measured at the macroenvironment and microenvironment, and the risk of BRD in pre-weaned dairy calves.
Exploring herd-level management factors and culling rates in Québec dairy herds
Authors: Haine D. , Arsenault J. , Bouchard E. , Dubuc J. , Delgado H. , Cue R. , Wade K. , Sewalem A. , Lacroix R. , Lefebvre D.
Published: February 2023

The objectives of this study were to: 1) quantify culling rates of Quebec dairy herds, and 2) investigate if Quebec dairy farms could be differentiated based on herd-level factors such as management, reproduction, production and health indices, and explore their relationship with herd culling rate.
Effect of vaginal temperature on behavior patterns of Mannheimia haemolytico challenged beef heifer calves
Authors: Abell K. M. , Theurer M. E. , Larson R. L. , Mosier D. A.
Published: February 2023

Behavior is one criteria that can be used to identify sick animals, but the relationship between behavior and body temperature changes are not well-defined. The objective of this project was to evaluate associations between vaginal temperature and behavior in beef heifers challenged with Mannheimia haemolytica.
Modulation of the acute phase and metabolic response in feedlot steers supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae subspecies boulardii CNCM 1-1079
Authors: Buntyn J. O. , Carroll J. A , Chevaux E. , Barling K. , Sieren S. E. , Schmidt T. B.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) has a devastating economic impact on the beef industry. The annual estimated cost of BRD is well over $600 million. A possible way to mitigate the devastating effects of BRD is the supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The supplementation of yeast has the potential to offset the impact of BRD due to its ability to alter the innate immune response, directly interact with pathogenic bacteria within the GIT tract, and/or through alteration of ruminant metabolism. To further evaluate yeast supplementation as a means to improve health, performance, and immunity in cattle, a receiving and immune challenge study was conducted to evaluate the effects of active dry yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae subspecies boulardii CNCM 1-1079 (SC; Lallemand, Inc.), in feedlot steers.
Assessment and comparison of the barriers to interspecies transmission of bovine spongiform encephalopathy and chronic wasting disease prions
Authors: Davenport K. A. , Henderson D. M. , Mathiason C. K. , Hoover E. A.
Published: February 2023

Prion diseases are transmissible, neurodegenerative diseases caused by templated conversion of the normal cellular prion protein to a misfolded, neurotoxic form. After conversion, the misfolded protein aggregates into characteristic protease-resistant amyloid plaques, which are hallmarks of prion disease. Species barriers among prion diseases have been observed epidemiologically and experimentally, but the mechanism(s) mediating this phenomenon remains unknown, making it impossible to predict the risk of transmission to new species, including humans, and to formulate therapies and prophylactics... Functional demonstration of the mechanism(s) resulting in the species barriers is the principal question addressed in this research.
Serum neutralizing antibody concentrations against viral bovine respiratory pathogens in nursing beef calves
Authors: Scruggs L. M. , Smith D. R. , Woolums A. R. , Grotelueschen D. M. , Doster A. R. , Brodersen B. W. , Loy J. D.
Published: February 2023

Nursing calf bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a problem for some herds, and the timing of maternal antibody decline may be related to risk for calves to develop BRD. Limited information is available on the distribution of serum maternal antibody titers among calves within and between cow-calf herds. Understanding how maternal antibody concentrations vary within and between herds may help us understand what puts nursing (preweaned) calves at risk for BRD. The objective of this study was to test the effect of calf age and farm on the magnitude of serum neutralizing antibody (SNA) titers against viral causes of BRD in nursing calves among herds in a similar geographic location.
comparative evaluation of 2 cow-side meters and a milk test for the diagnosis of subclinical ketosis
Authors: Klehr K. , Scherping M. , Stoddard G. , Cramer G.
Published: February 2023

Subclinical ketosis (SCK) is a metabolic disease of dairy cows that has significant economic effects on dairy farms due to its effect on reproductive performance, milk production, and future risk of disease. Subclinical ketosis has been defined as being present when serum β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB) concentrations are >1.2 mmol/L. Currently there are 2 electronic hand- held meters marketed for cow-side determination of βHB levels. One meter, the Nova Vet Blood Ketone and Glucose Monitoring System, is a new veterinary specific entrant to the market, and no performance data on it exists. The other, Precision Xtra, is a human meter validated for use in cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic test performance of 2 different cow-side handheld meters and a milk βHB test to a reference laboratory testing method.
Accuracy and intensity of estrus detection with activity monitoring systems for lactating dairy cows
Authors: Leroy C. , LeBlanc S.
Published: February 2023

Activity monitors are becoming a widely used tool for estrus detection in dairy cows. The objective of this study was to assess the intensity and accuracy of estrus detection with automated activity monitoring systems.
Do we really know how dairy calf treaters make decisions on which calf to treat?
Authors: Moore D. A. , Olson A. , Adams-Progar A. , Berge A. C. B. , Sischo W. M.
Published: February 2023

Lack of compliance with protocols on dairy farms is cited as an important reason for drug residues, poor estrus synchronization, and mastitis. In calf-rearing, treatment records are often absent, making it difficult for veterinarians to understand treatment protocol compliance and on what signs treaters rely to make treatment decisions. The objective of this study was to compare clinical observations made by trained investigators with treatment decisions for pre-weaned calves made by farm personnel.
Nebulization therapy in small ruminants, 21 cases
Authors: Smith J. S. , Heller M. C. , Angelos J. A.
Published: February 2023

Nebulization therapies are commonly used in humans and small animals. Currently there are published reports on nebulization therapy in horses and calves, but no studies describing this therapy have been reported in small ruminants.

The objectives of this study were to identify the agents and dosages utilized for nebulization therapy in small ruminants at a university teaching hospital. Additional objectives were to describe outcomes vs non-nebulized cases and report any complications arising from therapy.
Effect of management factors on fecal egg counts of Haemonchus contortus in pastured sheep and goats in Northern New England
Authors: Wadsworth A. A. , Weber J. A.
Published: February 2023

Haemonchus contortus (HC) is a subtropical parasite whose pasture-based larval stages are reduced significantly by severe Northern New England winters. Consequently, HC-contaminated northern pastures experience a winter die-off of infective larvae, with re-colonization of pastures occurring as temperatures moderate each spring. The cold winter environment of northern New England provides sheep and goat producers with an advantage over southern farmers because HC-infected fields may be managed each spring to minimize recontamination of pastures, and there is a short grazing season that limits the build-up of infective larvae on pastures. Management data were collected and HC concentrations in pooled feces were measured during the grazing season on 73 farms in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Our objective was to determine the effect of farm type and management strategy on the abundance of H. contortus during the grazing season on northern New England farms.
Impact of passive immunity induced by maternal vaccination on subsequent immunization and disease-sparing in early-weaned beef calves challenged with highly virulent BVDV
Authors: Walz P. H. , Richeson A. R. , Riddell K. P. , Givens M. D. , Chamorro M. F. , Santen A. V.
Published: February 2023

Vaccination programs have been developed to limit disease associated with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection. The ultimate goal of BVDV vaccination is to induce immunity that prevents viral replication after infection; however, passively acquired BVDV-specific neutralizing antibodies can impact immunity and vaccine responses in the young calf. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of passively-derived antibody on vaccine response and mitigation of disease in early weaned beef calves whose passive immune status was documented, and when vaccination and challenge were separated by only 5 days.
Calving distributions of individual bulls in multiple-sire pastures
Authors: Abell K. M. , White B. J. , Larson R. L. , Hardin D. K. , Randle R. F. , Theurer M. E. , Cushman R. A.
Published: February 2023

Reproductive performance and the number of calves produced by individual bulls within multiple-sire pastures has been shown to be highly variable. The objective of this project was to quantify patterns in the number of calves sired in multiple-sire pastures.
Effect of injectable trace minerals (zinc, manganese, selenium, and copper) on the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to vaccine antigens following administration of a modified-live viral vaccine in dairy calves
Authors: Palomares R. A. , Moliere F. , Havenga L. J. , Woolums A. R. , Norton N. A. , Credille B. , Clifton S. J. , Sigmund A. B. , Barber C. E. , Berger M. L. , Clark M. J. , Fratto M. A. , Hurley D. J.
Published: February 2023

The benefits of administering injectable trace minerals (ITM; Zn, Mn, Cu, and Se) on animal health and performance have been previously assessed in dairy and beef cattle. Previous studies demonstrated that ITM improved humoral immune response to bovine herpesvirus l(BHV-l) following administration of a modified live virus (MLV) vaccine in cattle. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of an ITM supplement containing zinc, manganese, selenium, and copper on the humoral and cell mediated immune (CMI) responses to individual vaccine antigens in dairy calves receiving a MLV vaccine containing bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), BHV1, parainfluenza virus 3 (PI3V), and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV).
Efficacy of feeding First Day Formula® CR versus maternal colostrum on calf serum immunological parameters
Authors: Lago A. , Leonardi C. , Blanc C. , Cook D. , Socha M. , Rivera H.
Published: February 2023

Commercially available colostrum replacers (CR) are commonly used for convenience when maternal colostrum (MC) is unavailable, of questionable quality or in disease control programs. The objective was to determine the efficacy of a colostrum-derived CR, First Day Formula® CR (Accelerated Genetics, Baraboo, WI), vs raw MC on immunological parameters.
activity alert index for the detection of health disorders during early lactation
Authors: Paudyal Sushil , Maunsell Fiona , Risco Carlos , Donovan G. Arthur , De Vries Albert , Pinedo Pablo
Published: February 2023

Monitoring of health disorders during early lactation is a key component in the management of dairy systems. Electronic systems that allow the monitoring of cow activity are available. Our objective was to evaluate the association between changes in activity (ACT) recorded by a neck collar and disease during early lactation in dairy cows.
Description of close-up cow recipes in California dairies
Authors: Rodriguez S. , Trillo Y. , Lago A. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

Dietary characteristics of close-up (CU) are critical for a good transition period. The recipe fed should be as close as possible to the formulation provided by the nutritionist. The fed ration often differs from the formulated ration as a result of feeder errors during CU recipe preparation, uncertainties in dry matter (DM) content, and nutrient composition of the ingredients. The objective of this study is to improve feed efficiency and decrease variation while preparing the CU recipe on dairy farms.
Leadership for the farm business
Authors: Milligan Robert A.
Published: February 2023

Veterinary practices and all organizations are experiencing challenges in attracting and retaining employees. At the same time research increasingly reveals that most employee management practices are wrong. Most simply stated, we have tried to manage employees when, in fact, people - employees - are fully capable of managing themselves.

A revised definition of business success is required to truly recognize the role of people in organizations. The fundamentals of business remain crucial; however, to optimize success, all businesses must also be healthy. A healthy organization has high productivity, low turnover, high morale and job satisfaction, minimal confusion, and minimal politics (often referred to as "drama").

Research on human behavior and brain function sheds great light on employee motivation and a healthy business. Employees are productive, engaged, and passionate when their psychological needs for autonomy, relatedness, and competence are fulfilled. Autonomy is our human need to have choices. Relatedness is our need to care about and be cared about. Competence is our need to feel effective at meeting everyday challenges and opportunities.

Five skills to increase autonomy, relatedness and competence are active listening, vision, clarity, quality feedback, and continuing growth. Providing these increases the motivation, productivity, and retention of staff.
Effect of a ration change from a total mixed ration to pasture on production, health and rumen physiology of dairy cows
Authors: Schären M. , Dieho K. , Seyfang G. , Dijkstra J. , Meyer U. , Breves G.
Published: February 2023

In temperate climate zones dairy cows need to be fed with conserved feed during winter, and are then often gradually transitioned to a pasture-based ration in spring. We hypothesized that the change from a confinement to a pasture-based system involves complex nutritional and metabolic adaptations with consequences on health and performance.
Rumen protected branched amino acids supplementation during early lactation in dairy cows
Authors: Leal Yepes F. A. , Mann S. , Overton T. R. , Wakshlag J. J. , Nydam D. V.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to test if supplementation of Rumen Protected Branched-Chain Amino Acids (RPBCAA) with or without PG oral supplementation improved milk protein yield as well as negative energy balance during the early postpartum period in dairy cows.
herd-level study of colostrum management and its association with success of passive transfer in newborn dairy calves
Authors: Freycon P. , Buczinski S. , Dubuc J.
Published: February 2023

Many individual animal-level studies have been conducted to investigate the risk factors for success of passive transfer (SPT) in dairy calves. However, a much smaller number of studies are available to identify risk factors for SPT at the herd level. Therefore, the first objective of this study was to describe colostrum management in dairy herds when considering colostrum quality (IgG concentration and bacterial contamination) and feeding (volume and timing). The second objective was to quantify the prevalence of SPT in these herds and to investigate its association with colostrum management at the herd level.
Lactoferrin reduces mortality in pre-weaned calves with diarrhea
Authors: Harris K. , Schuenemann G. , Lakritz J. , Pineiro J. , Alcaraz X. , Habing G.
Published: February 2023

Calf diarrhea is the most common illness in young calves, and nearly 8% die as a result. Alternatives to antimicrobials are frequently used to treat calf diarrhea on organic operations, but there is little data confirming their effectiveness. Additionally, the availability of effective antimicrobial alternatives could help improve antimicrobial stewardship and reduce usage in cases of diarrhea. Lactoferrin and garlic extract have antimicrobial properties and have shown positive impacts on growth in pre-weaned calves. We hypothesized that lactoferrin and garlic extract would decrease mortality, improve weight gain, and decrease disease duration in preweaned calves with diarrhea.
Effects of transdermal flunixin meglumine on pain biomarkers at dehorning
Authors: Kleinhenz M. D. , Van Engen N. K. , Gorden P. J. , Coetzee J. F.
Published: February 2023

Dehorning is a common procedure performed on over 90% of dairy farms. The increasing awareness of animal welfare and pain mitigation have made the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) common and desirable at the time of dehorning. Recently, a novel formulation of flunixin meglumine has been developed and approved in the European Union. This novel formulation is designed for topical application and transdermal absorption of the active ingredient. The objective of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effects of topical flunixin meglumine when given at the time of dehorning on pain biomarkers.
Development and validation of the VetMAX-Gold MAP Detection Kit
Authors: Burrell A. , Baca I. Leyva , Shah R. , Kephart D.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the performance characteristics of the VetMAX-Gold MAP Detection Kit in detecting MAP DNA from nucleic acid extracted from individual and pooled bovine fecal samples.
Nine months in with the veterinary feed directive
Authors: Apley Michael D.
Published: February 2023

Last year at this time we were preparing for the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) transition and now we are survivors. There have been countless conversations between veterinarians and clients related to label indications, extralabel use, durations of use, concurrent use, repeated regimens (pulses), "hand fed” vs approved free choice feeds, and what comes next. We have advanced to the point of at least clarifying the uncertainties related to these subjects, and there is an indication of the next regulatory focus related to in-feed drugs. The "Blue Bird" labels have become familiar to many veterinarians to clarify the legal inclusions of Type C feeds. Also, Compliance Policy guide 615.115 has been useful for understanding the ability to use in-feed drugs in an extralabel manner in minor species. It is now clearly understood that asecond administration of an approved in-feed drug regimen to an animal requires an additional VFD be written. For determining which drugs may be concurrently fed together in feed, the Blue Bird labels and the Feed Additive Compendium are key sources. Next in the regulatory lineup is an evaluation of medically important in-feed antibiotics for which there is not a defined duration of administration in the label regimen.
Role of the microbiome in respiratory disease
Authors: Niederwerder Megan C.
Published: February 2023

"Microbiome” is a term used to describe the community of microorganisms that live on and within vertebrate hosts. These microorganisms primarily live in the gastrointestinal tract and play an important role in nutrient digestion and development of immunity. Understanding the role of the gut microbiome in health and disease is a new and exciting field of study. For decades, the focus on managing infectious disease has been on the pathogen(s) of interest, virtually ignoring the role of beneficial microbes in potentiating or eliminating disease. In addition, initial research evaluating the role of the microbiome in disease was centered on enteric pathogens, due to the inherent proximity of pathogenic and nonpathogenic microorganisms in the digestive tract. However, recent investigations have revealed the potential role of the microbiome in diseases outside the gastrointestinal tract, such as neurologic, respiratory, and autoimmune diseases. Considering the role of the microbiome in clinical disease and decreased performance associated with respiratory infections, this area of research becomes even more relevant to food animal production. The objective of this paper is to review associations between the gut microbiome and outcome during infectious respiratory disease in animals.
Impact of age on antibiotic distribution and efficacy in calves
Authors: Mzyk Danielle A.
Published: February 2023

Calfhood diseases have a major economic impact on beef and dairy operations, due to the costs associated with mortality, treatment, and the long-term effects on growth and performance. With very limited approved drugs for use in "pre-ruminant” calves and heifers, questions remain about the effectiveness of these drugs in young animals. It is important to prevent unnecessary use of antibiotics in calves to limit the development of resistant bacteria and residues, as well as take into account the developmental changes that occur in neonatal calves that would affect the distribution, therefore efficacy of selected drug therapy. The purpose of this article will give an overview of the effects of age on absorption, metabolism, distribution, and elimination of commonly administered drugs and its impact on efficacy in different ages of calves.
Myth
Authors: Lewis Dickson (Dick) W.
Published: February 2023

The value proposition is the collective set of offerings that you can potentially provide to your clients expressed in their language. Ultimately, it determines how your clients view your practice. Setting it down on paper in a methodical process that involves input from everyone in your practice, even clients, is an effective way to assess what you are providing, engage your staff in your continuous improvement efforts, and make decisions about how to allocate resources - both people and dollars - in the planning process. This paper provides such a process using an accepted group management technique called "affinity diagramming." Four steps are involved and it can be applied to any type or size of practice. After you complete it, you can use it as a "living document" that changes as you add more services, your market needs and client wants change, and/or technology offers new and better ways to deliver a benefit to your clients.
People sometimes lie, but lesions seldom do
Authors: Scruggs Daniel
Published: February 2023

The objectives of the presentation are to cover efficient field necropsy techniques, sample collection, and laboratory submission to address clinical situations presented. We will discuss situational evaluation of common infectious, metabolic, and toxic conditions along with lesions (or lack thereof), and how to evaluate clinical presentation along with lesions and laboratory results to generate actionable information. Specific collection of samples from field necropsies and laboratory test requests will be discussed, as well as the interpretive nuances of lab results. We will also cover sample handling and chain of custody for potential legal cases. What we are attempting to create is information that is interpretable and actionable.
Randomized clinical trial investigating the effect of a more liberal milk allowance in the days after birth on the health and growth of pre-weaned dairy calves
Authors: Knauer W. A. , Godden S. M. , Sorg J. , McGuirk S. M.
Published: February 2023

While the level of milk intake from birth to weaning is positively associated with pre-weaning health, growth, and improved milk production in the adult dairy cow, producers are still reluctant to offer large volumes of milk during the first week or two of life due to concerns that increasing the daily allowance too quickly may cause nutritional (milk) scours. However, recent observational studies have reported a positive association between levels of milk consumption in  the first days of life and future health events. The objective of this study was to describe the effect of offering a more liberal volume of milk immediately from day 1 of life, as compared to a traditional ramp-up program. We hypothesized that calves offered more milk early in life would not experience more scours, but rather would experience improved health and growth as compared to calves that were slowly ramped up in their daily milk allowance over a period of 7 - 14 days.
effects of an oral supplement containing calcium and live yeast on circulating calcium and production following IV lipopolysaccharide infusion in dairy cows
Authors: Al-Qaisi M. , Ydstie J. A. , Kvidera S. K. , Horst E. A. , Shouse C. S. , Upah N. C. , Mckilligan D. M. , Baumgard L. H.
Published: February 2023

Administrating lipopolysaccharide (LPS) decreases circulating calcium (Ca) and markedly reduces both feed intake and milk yield in lactating cows. Calcium is involved in immune system activation, but whether supplemental Ca benefits immune-challenged cows remains unclear. Therefore, study objectives were to evaluate if providing an oral supplement containing soluble Ca, live yeast and other micronutrients would ameliorate LPS-induced hypocalcemia and production parameters in lactating dairy cows.
Evaluating quarter versus composite milk sampling for detection of subclinical intramammary infections
Authors: Bach K. D. , Sipka A. , McArt J. A. A.
Published: February 2023

The objective of our study was to evaluate quarter versus composite milk sampling for detection of subclinical intramammary infections. Mastitis, infection and inflammation of the mammary gland, is the most costly disease facing the dairy industry today, with nearly two-thirds of the cost attributed to subclinical infections. Additionally, as the number one reason for antibiotic usage on farm, improvements must be made regarding the identification and treatment of this disease. Screening for subclinical mastitis has routinely been done using total milk somatic cell counts at the composite level, where milk from all four quarters is pooled into a single vial. This sampling technique is convenient and economical, however little research has been done on its efficacy in identifying subclinically infected animals as compared to quarter sampling.
Rapid typing of Mannheimia haemolytica major genotypes 1 and 2 using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Loy J. D. , Clawson M. L.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is one of the most costly diseases to cattle production throughout the globe, and losses in the US are estimated at one billion dollars annually. Mannheimia haemolytica is the most commonly detected bacterial agent associated with BRD. Recently, whole genome sequencing was employed on 1,133 M. haemolytica isolates from North American cattle and a nucleotide polymorphism typing system was developed. Two major genotypes were discovered (1 and 2). Genotype 1 M. haemolytica were mostly isolated from the nasopharynx of cattle without BRD. In contrast, genotype 2 M. haemolytica predominantly associated with the lungs of cattle with BRD and integrative conjugative elements that contained antimicrobial resistance determinants. The objective of this study was to develop a rapid matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization- time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) assay for the detection of M. haemolytica genotypes 1 and 2. MALDI-TOF MS is an emerging technology in diagnostic microbiology and is most frequently used for bacterial identification.
Comparison of a novel Ovsynch program utilising early pregnancy diagnosis as a measure of performance in Australian pasture based dairy herds
Authors: Rheinberger J. M. , Colson D. D. , Beggs D. , Mansell P. , Stevenson M. , Rheinberger R. J. , Pyman M.
Published: February 2023

In recent years the fertility of the dairy cow has been decreasing and there has been some speculation that the current Ovsynch programs on the market have not been used at the optimum time. Ovsynch is an oestrus synchrony program where hormone injections are used to bring cows into oestrus so that fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) can be used. The original program involves an injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on day 0, prostaglandin (PGF2α) on day 7, GnRH on day 9 and FTAI on day 10. Based on studies looking at progesterone levels with the current Ovsynch program, a new program was proposed incorporating a second injection of PGF2α on day 8 to increase the probability of atresia of the corpus luteum (CL). The efficacy of the program will be established through early pregnancy diagnosis. A subset of animals in each group was submitted for progesterone testing on two separate occasions as an indication of whether ovulation occurred at AI.
Study to measure the effect of implanting Holstein steers at various stages of growth and the impact on weight gain and interference with subsequent implants
Authors: Gawthrop J. C. , McKaig C. M. , Funk K. K. , Budzinski A. C.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study is to quantify the effect of using Component E-C and Component E-S implants in Holstein steers from 50 days of age to 210 days of age. The use of growth promoting implants has been shown to be a beneficial practice in increased rate of gain, increased feed efficiency, and improvement in carcass quality. There are many techniques and schemes for using the various implants to their best advantage. There have not been many published studies concerning the use of implants in young Holstein steers. It has not been established that young Holstein steers benefit from this practice. It has been argued that early implants will lessen the effect of later implants given to Holstein steers.
Genetic comparison of Florida beef cows with and without ovarian follicular dysplasia
Authors: Gard J. , Roberts J. , Biase F. , Mansour M. , Wenzel J. , Edmondson M. , Rae O. , Braden T.
Published: February 2023

Beef operations in Florida and other areas of the southeastern United States have a yearly calving percentage of less than 80%. Studies commissioned by the Florida Cattleman's Association in 2007 and 2016 found ovarian follicular dysplasia (OFD) as a primary cause of infertility in Florida beef cows. The later stages of OFD can be detected via ultrasound examination of the ovaries but earlier stages cannot be reliably detected utilizing ultrasound. The objective of this study was to examine the variation in ovarian gene expression between OFD cows and non-OFD cows. Identification of specific genetic profiles could aid in the development of an ante-mortem molecular test for early detection of OFD.
Investigation of a reported increase in clinical disease attributed to anaplasmosis and babesiosis in Costa Rican dairy herds
Authors: Hines S. A. , Corbett R. , Ueti M. W. , Johnson W. C. , Vega R. , Adams D. S.
Published: February 2023

Anaplasmosis and babesiosis have been recognized as significant disease entities in Latin America for many decades. As in the United States, seroprevalence varies widely within the country of Costa Rica, dependent on altitude, temperature, vegetation, and other factors. Infection with multiple hemoparasites (Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bovis, and/or Babesia bigemina), along with other comorbidities and management factors, may influence manifestation of clinical disease. This study was undertaken as a field investigation in response to reported concerns of increased sudden death and severe clinical disease in adult animals, as well as unexpected serious disease in younger animals. The aim was to evaluate the infection status and epidemiology of these herds to determine what organisms might be playing a role in disease and identify potential changes in management that could help mitigate the impact.
Risk factors associated with early mortality identified on arrival to a milk-fed veal facility
Authors: Renaud D. L. , Kelton D. F. , LeBlanc S. J. , Ferguson S. , Haley D. B. , Duffield T. F.
Published: February 2023

The veal industry continues to have significant calf losses during the growing period representing a serious challenge to animal welfare and economic sustainability. As the majority of the mortality occurs in the first 21 days following arrival to veal farms, on arrival health status may be an important predictor of calf mortality. The objectives of this prospective case-control study were to describe the health status of male calves arriving at a veal farm and determine the risk factors associated with mortality in the first 21 days following arrival.
Development of a health index using an automated, chute-side blood leukocyte differential to guide antibiotic treatment at processing
Authors: Hockett M. E. , Saxon A. M. , Lukasiewicz K. L. , Terrell S. P. , Valles J. A.
Published: February 2023

Antibiotics play an important role in the health and welfare of livestock, but their use is under intense scrutiny. A recent feedlot trial examined the use of a chute-side, automated blood leukocyte differential (QScout BLD) to guide selective antibiotic treatment at processing. One objective was to develop an index that is predictive of performance (average daily gain and morbidity). The second objective was to determine the impact of selective treatment vs metaphylaxis at processing.
Pegbovigrastim affected gene expression in neutrophils of transition cows indicating increased neutrophil function
Authors: Heiser Axel , LeBlanc Stephen , Rapnicki Paul , McDougall Scott
Published: February 2023

Treatment of transition cows with granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been shown to increase neutrophil count and function. It was hypothesized that prepartum under-nutrition might reduce the effect of a commercial recombinant bovine G-CSF product (pegbovigrastim; Imrestor, Elanco). Hence this study was undertaken to test the effect of under-nutrition and pegbovigrastim treatment on gene expression in neutrophils.
It may be YOUR practice, but it's OUR business!
Authors: Gardiner Mark
Published: February 2023

This presentation details the long-term, trusted relationship between a beef producer and the local veterinarian. The veterinarian is a source of new, innovative information to help keep the ranch successful and a model for modern ranching practices.
Antimicrobial stewardship considerations in beef production
Authors: Fajt Virginia R.
Published: February 2023

Stewards oversee and protect something of value. On the subject of antimicrobial drugs, veterinarians must be stewards of antimicrobial effectiveness and availability. Lack of antimicrobial effectiveness or loss of the use of antimicrobial drugs would lead to increased animal illness and suffering. Lack of antimicrobial effectiveness as a result of transfer of resistance genes from animal-carried bacteria to human pathogens would lead to increased human illness, and potentially to loss of confidence in veterinary care. Therefore, veterinarians need to continue to be stewards of antimicrobial drugs for human and animal health. Our lead professional associations have committed to antimicrobial stewardship with the approval of stewardship guidance: American Veterinary Medical Association Core Principles and American Association of Bovine Practitioners Key Elements.
Thoracic ultrasound to monitor lung health and assist decision making in preweaned dairy calves
Authors: Ollivett Theresa L.
Published: February 2023

In young dairy cattle, respiratory disease is economically challenging, subclinical disease exists, and producer based diagnosis lacks in sensitivity. Therefore, monitoring lung health in young cattle should be considered a priority for maintaining proper drug use, animal wellbeing, and profitability. Incorporating lung ultrasound at regular intervals provides an understanding of the epidemiology of respiratory disease in client herds, and can help identify problems before they become catastrophic. The growing pains from learning how to perform lung ultrasound are worthwhile, and will help you become indispensable to your clients. This article will review the available technologies, the benefits of a systematic examination, and how to implement thoracic ultrasound to monitor lung health and assist in management decisions.
Guide to udder health for dairy goats
Authors: Menzies Paula I.
Published: February 2023

An udder health guide developed for dairy goats provides guidance to producers, veterinarians, and dairy support personnel in how to control mastitis and maintain milk quality. It is divided into 8 sections that cover normal anatomy and physiology, the causes of mastitis and how to detect it, best practices for milking management, maintenance of milking equipment, and troubleshooting poor milk quality. Other sections cover treatment and control of mastitis, monitoring udder health, and health management of the dairy doe. More research is needed in some areas, although there is sufficient information available to provide a high quality udder health program to this dairy sector.
Epidemiology and treatment of spinose ear ticks on a California dairy
Authors: Jardon G. H. , Ray F. M. , Peyton R. W. , Overton M. W. , Jardon P. W.
Published: February 2023

While not widely reported on dairies, spinose ear ticks may be more prevalent in the Southwest US dairy industry than previously thought. The dairy where this research was conducted had a serious infestation and the owner was looking for guidance in the control or eradication of this parasite due to the irritation the ticks were causing the cows. The dairy owner felt that the ticks were causing a decrease in milk production and an increased culling risk. The objective of this research was to analyze various treatment options to determine the most effective method to control spinose ear ticks through 4 studies. Study 1 examined the efficacy of acaricides to determine the most effective treatment option. Study 2 focused on locating where the adult ticks were living and reproducing within the freestall bedding. Study 3 analyzed how soon cows became infested after being moved to the freestall barn from the dry lots. Study 4 looked at the efficacy of the CyLence Ultra® ear tags in relation to infestation severity.
Using prostaglandin F2α and gonadotropin-releasing hormone simultaneously 7 d prior to Ovsynch increased first-service pregnancies per artificial insemination compared to Presynch-14/Ovsynch
Authors: Martins J. P. N. , Martinez W. , Schmitt J. S. , Ross P. J.
Published: February 2023

Fertility programs such as G6G and Double-Ovsynch improve reproductive performance in lactating dairy cows following first service compared to cows inseminated following estrus. However, implementation of these programs in dairy operations can be logistically challenging due to hormone treatments on 4 different days of the week, which increase labor requirements and risk of program compliance issues. To simplify reproductive management, some dairy producers prefer to use Presynch-14 that concentrates most treatments on the same day of the week as day of pregnancy diagnosis. When combined with estrus detection, this strategy allows the insemination of a high percentage of cows ( ~ 50%) following the end of voluntary waiting period, which usually coincides with the second PGF2α treatment. However, this program might limit fertility performance since a high percentage of cows receiving timed-AI do not ovulate to the 1st GnRH of Ovsynch and may not be synchronized at time of insemination. Recently, a simpler pre-synchronization program for first service (PG+G), that uses PGF2α and GnRH simultaneously 7 d prior to Ovsynch, had similar ovulation rates to the 1st GnRH of Ovsynch and pregnancy per AI (P / AI) compared with fertility programs. This PG+G program could benefit dairy operations that use Presynch-14 since they would not need to change the weekday of injections, and reproductive performance could potentially increase. The aim of this study was to compare some physiological parameters and first-service P / AI of PG+G vs Presynch-14 in lactating dairy cows.
Effect of lameness during early lactation on subsequent fertility and survival of Holstein cows across multiple geographic areas in the US
Authors: Pinedo P. , Santos J. E. P. , Schuenemann G. , Rodrigez-Zas S. , Rosa G. , Chebel R.
Published: February 2023

Due to pain and discomfort associated with lameness, this disorder represents a significant animal-welfare challenge for the dairy industry. In addition, the high incidence of this condition results in substantial economic losses that include treatment and control costs, premature culling, decreased milk yield, and impaired reproductive performance. Although previous studies established an association between lameness and reproduction, large multi-state prospective studies using standardized definitions and procedures can provide new insights on the magnitude of the effects of lameness on fertility of dairy cows. Therefore, our objective was to test the effect of lameness at early stages of lactation on fertility and survival of a large population of Holstein cows in dairies across multiple states.
Sporadic juvenile thymic lymphoma in a 3-month old Angus bull calf
Authors: Alexander D. , Robertson J. , Gibbons P. , Chapman S. , Pfent C. , Miller L.
Published: February 2023

A 3-month old Angus bull calf presented for enlargement of his ventral neck and brisket region. Physical examination revealed the calf was dyspneic and exhibiting sign of secondary ruminal tympany. Palpation of the neck and brisket revealed a firm, predominantly left sided, ventral mass in the caudal cervical region at the level of the thoracic inlet.
A prudent approach to antibiotic treatment of high-risk calves at arrival to a dairy beef facility
Authors: Von Konigslow T. E. , Renaud D. L. , Kelton D. F. , Duffield T. F.
Published: February 2023

The veal and dairy beef industries experience high levels of morbidity and mortality during the growing period impacting calf welfare and economic sustainability. A large proportion of calves arrive into these industries with identifiable health abnormalities and, in consequence, calves are at highest risk of mortality in their first few weeks after arrival. A conventional method for addressing this high-risk period is the use of group antimicrobial therapy during their first week in the facility. However, in light of growing concerns for the development of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR), targeted strategies for antimicrobial use (AMU) in this high-risk period are being investigated. Selective antimicrobial treatment of only those calves identified as high risk can be used to reduce overall AMU and therefore reduce the selective pressures that confer AMR. The objective of this study was to compare morbidity and mortality for calves in the first 2 weeks at a dairy beef facility between groups receiving conventional group antimicrobial therapy (CT) and those receiving selective antimicrobial therapy (ST) at arrival.