bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Tulathromycin Treatment at Post-weaning Movement on Incidence of Respiratory Disease and Growth in Commercial Dairy Calves
Authors: Stanton A. L. , LeBlanc S. J. , Dingwell R. T. , Kelton D. F. , Millman S. T. , Leslie K. E.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is common following weaning and movement of calves from individual to group housing. If this disease occurs in the young calf, it has long term implications for the individual welfare of the calf by increasing its mortality risk and economic impacts for the farmer by increasing the time to first calving (Waltner-toews et al, 1986). Given the long-term consequences of this disease, an effective and easy to manage method of prevention is important for dairy calf management. Our objective is to evaluate the effects of tulathromycin administered at the time of post-weaning grouping on incidence of respiratory disease and growth in dairy calves.
Chute-side Entry of Lameness Information thru the Use of Touch-screen Technology
Authors: Shearer J. K. , Irsik M. B. , DeVries A. , Shearer L. C.
Published: February 2023

The on-farm capture of lameness information remains a major deficiency in animal health record keeping programs throughout North America. To address this issue, a language-neutral record-keeping system was developed utilizing touch screen computer technology, RFID and the claw zone and foot numbering techniques as described by the AABP Lameness Committee in 2004.
Genetic Resistance to Johne's Disease in Cattle
Authors: Pinedo P. J. , Buergelt C. D. , Donovan A. , Melendez P. , Morel L. , Rae D. O.
Published: February 2023

Paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) is an economically significant, infectious disease of ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis, and characterized by progressive weight loss and nonresponsive diarrhea. Genetic factors have been associated with differences in host susceptibility to bovine paratuberculosis. Research has been aimed at detecting associations between susceptibility and polymorphisms at candidate genes with no definitive results. Several gene products are candidates for this association. Interferon gamma is an inducible cytokine with a crucial role in the innate host response to intracellular bacteria. Toll-like receptors are trans-membrane structures responsible for coordination of innate and adaptive immune responses. The SLC11A1 gene plays an important role in innate immunity, preventing bacterial growth in macrophages during the initial stages of infection. The objective of this candidate gene case-control study was to characterize the distribution of polymorphisms in three candidate genes related to the immune function; interferon gamma (BoIFNG), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and solute carrier family 11 member1 (SLC11A1) genes, and test their association with paratuberculosis infection in cattle.
Fresh Cow Monitoring on Day Three Post-partum and Lactation Milk Production
Authors: Anderson K. L. , Correa M. T. , Allen A. , Rodriguez R.
Published: February 2023

Assessment of udder health is one component of fresh cow monitoring programs. Both on-farm efforts and research studies have considered the use of milk culture, the California Mastitis Test (CMT), and/or somatic cell counts for monitoring udder health post-partum. The purpose of this study was to determine if various measures of udder health evaluated on day 3 post-partum were associated with lactational milk production.
Development of a Quantification Method to Specific Anti-NS3 Antibody Against Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) Using a Blocking ELISA
Authors: Guillossou S. , Thomson D. , Thomson C.
Published: February 2023

There are numerous published epidemiological models in Europe concerning the control of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in cattle by identifying and removing persistently infected (PI) cattle from herds. It is difficult to adapt these models in countries that routinely vaccinate cattle for BVDV. Vaccination interferes with previous models when measuring total or serum neutralizing antibodies. An alternative approach could be to measure a subpopulation such as antibody targeting nonstructural proteins that can be found only during virus replication. The objective of the study was to develop a quantitative serum antibody test for BVDV with a commercially available test (SERELISA® BVD Ab Mono Blocking, Synbiotics Corporation) that is based on a blocking ELISA which allows specific detection of anti-NS3 antibodies against the BVDV. The blocking format alone does not allow a straightforward approach for developing quantification methods because of the usual lack of linearity of these tests. Therefore, statistical applications were explored to develop a quantitative extension of the blocking format.
Livestock Disease Surveillance
Authors: Van Metre David C. , Salman M. D.
Published: February 2023

As a result of the expansion of global trade and travel, livestock disease surveillance has rapidly evolved from a stance of looking at and within our borders for threats to looking more intensively across the globe for threats. The projected intensification of livestock production in developing nations will likely broaden the scale, diversity, and consequences of disease outbreaks. Numerous challenges face the development and implementation of effective global and domestic livestock disease surveillance. Our profession is well-positioned to advocate, develop, and utilize novel technologies, novel strategies, and novel sources of human resources to meet these challenges.
Your Livelihood
Authors: Ailsby Ronald
Published: February 2023

Large animal veterinarians face acute and chronic repetitive-strain injuries daily to their upper extremities. Symptoms of shoulder pain and arm weakness encompass at least 50 different diagnoses. This talk will identify and discuss the most common disabling conditions and provide insight into the complexity of the problem. Treatment, rehabilitation, and methods of preventing future disabilities will also be presented.
Economic Concepts Regarding Early Pregnancy Testing
Authors: Galligan David , Ferguson James , Munson Robert , Remsburg Darren , Skidmore Andy
Published: February 2023

Early pregnancy testing plays a key role in determining the reproductive success of a dairy herd and thus its economic efficiency. Fundamentally, early pregnancy determination defines how quickly cows which fail to conceive to a breeding are identified and re-inseminated. Due to the relatively low conception rates, this technology impacts the majority of cows within a herd several times within a lactation cycle. The sensitivity and specificity of tests (attributes of test accuracy) will vary with tests as well as when they are applied post breeding. Pregnancy testing must be coordinated with the herd breeding program so that cows testing open are bred on a timely basis to ensure maximizing the economic value of testing. The value of testing is highly dependent on how soon successful rebreeding can occur. Embryonic death occurs relatively early post breeding and thus can influence the economic attributes of early pregnancy determination. Understanding the underlying structure of the decision process can help in estimating the value of various components of the test in the field application.
Perspective on Planned BVD Control Strategy
Authors: Grotelueschen Dale M.
Published: February 2023

Control of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) requires design and implementation of integrated control plans in cattle operations. Individualized plans result from assessing herd risk and risk tolerance as well as related goals of cattle enterprises. BVD control plans utilizing surveillance, biosecurity, biocontainment, and vaccination strategies can be used to achieve herd goals. Using these approaches, veterinarians can design individualized BVD control plans that both benefit cattle production and are cost-effective.
New Health Care Delivery System and the Economics of Utilizing Veterinary Technicians
Authors: Galligan D. T. , Ferguson J. D. , Munson R. , Remsburg D. , Kelly A.
Published: February 2023

Population growth, global transformations, technological advances, and changing societal concerns on food production are inevitable and are challenging the way we produce food. Increasing global demand for animal products in the developing world, along with rapid urbanization, increasing energy costs, decreasing availability of quality arable land as well as water quality issues, place additional constraints on current food animal production systems. Indeed, the generational challenge to emerging food animal veterinary students is "how to feed the growing world without destroying the environment". The future food animal health care system and the veterinary professionals serving within will have to adapt to these changes in a manner that advances societal needs and meets demands in a responsible manner. To be relevant problem solvers in this global challenge, future veterinarians must be trained in diverse disciplines (epidemiology, management, ecology, economics, production systems, environmental sciences, nutrition) and even more importantly, have the ability to formulate integrated solutions to these complex challenges.
Client Perception = Your Reality
Authors: Bonvicini Kathleen A.
Published: February 2023

Despite a consensus of the importance of technical competence in veterinary care, clients rate the most important characteristics for choosing a veterinarian to be the ability to communicate understanding, compassion, and respect, and provide information in clear and simple language. Similarly, veterinarians value the importance of communication skills as necessary for practice success, yet many veterinarians state inadequate training in this area.

Providing quality animal care involves more than just technical competency. Regardless of the health care needs of the patient, clear and compassionate communication on the part of the veterinary team is critical to enhancing the overall experience for both animal and client, before, during and after the clinical visit. Effective communication is considered to be the essence of quality veterinary care and one of the necessary skills required in clinical practice and expected by clients.
Effect of Oral Flunixin Meglumine on Heart Rate, Physical Activity, and Salivary Cortisol Concentration following Cautery Disbudding of Dairy Calves
Authors: Morin D. , Brown L. , Wallace R. , Jarrell V. , Constable P.
Published: February 2023

US dairy calves are often disbudded at an early age without analgesics, whereas several other countries require analgesics. Administration of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in milk replacer would be a simple, stress-free method to deliver analgesics for disbudding if shown to improve well-being. Most studies of NSAID efficacy involve older animals, NSAIDs not labeled for use in US cattle, or NSAIDs administered by injection. Our objective was to determine the effects of administering an NSAID labeled for use in US cattle (flunixin meglumine; FM) in milk replacer on heart rate (HR), physical activity (PA), and salivary cortisol concentration (SCC) in young dairy calves disbudded by cautery.
Establishing Guidelines for Reporting Clinical Trials
Authors: O'Connor A. M. , Sargeant J. M. , Gardner I. , Dickson J. , Torrence M.
Published: February 2023

Recently, several reviews of clinical trials in preharvestfood safety and production animal medicinehave identified issues with lack of reporting of keymethodological quality features and items necessaryfor interpretation and replication of trial findings. Inhuman medicine, similar issues with the reporting ofclinical trials were identified 10-15 years ago. This ledto the publication of the CONsolidated Standards OfReporting Trials (CONSORT) statement, which consistsof a checklist of 22 items that should be reported whenpublishing a clinical trial, a flow diagram to describeparticipant movement at all stages of a trial, and anexplanation and elaboration document. The CONSORTstatement is endorsed by hundreds of medical journalsand has resulted in improvements in trial reporting.Livestock clinical trials incorporate issues not coveredby CONSORT, including the distinction between animalowners and study subjects, the frequent allocation oftreatments to groups, the conduct in both research andcommercial settings, and the common use of deliberatedisease challenge models.
Ovsynch versus Ultrasynch
Authors: McArt J. A. A. , Caixeta L. , Machado V. , Guard C. L. , Bicalho R. C.
Published: February 2023

The steady decrease in reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle and increase in use of synchronization protocols have generated interest in development of a synchronization program that improves pregnancy rate while decreasing the number of hormone treatments. The purpose of this study was to determine if the reproductive efficacy of a synchronization program, ultrasynch, based on functionality of the corpus luteum (CL), was greater than a standard ovsynch protocol.
Effect of High Somatic Cell Counts on Reproductive Performance of Chilean Dairy Cattle
Authors: Pinedo P. J. , Melendez P. , Villagomez-Cortes J. A. , Risco C.
Published: February 2023

Mastitis is caused by environmental or contagious bacteria related to poor milking procedures or hygiene, and continues as an economically important disease. Clinical mastitis may affect the interestrus interval and cause abortion by stimulating the release of inflammatory mediators and pyrexia. Subclinical mastitis results in lower reproductive performance, and a negative effect of a linear somatic cell count on embryo survival has been reported. Still, a paucity of research exists on the magnitude of the effect of subclinical mastitis on reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows. The hypothesis was that subclinical mastitis, diagnosed by an elevated somatic cell count (SCC), affects fertility and reproductive performance of dairy cattle by a reduction in conception and an increase on the risk of abortion. The objectives were to evaluate the effect of high SCC during early lactation on reproductive performance, and to determine the association between a high linear SCC (LNSCC) and the risk of abortion in a population of central-southern Chilean dairy cattle.
Effects of Feeding OmniGen-AF® on Phagocytic Ability of Neutrophils Isolated from Dairy Cattle, Rats and Mice
Authors: Rowson A. D. , Wang Y. , Forsberg N. E. , Puntenney S. B.
Published: February 2023

In recent studies (Wang et al., 2007, 2009), we determined that feeding OmniGen-AF® (Prince Agri Products, Quincy, IL) to ruminant animals alters expression of markers of immunity. In a study with immunosuppressed sheep (Wang et al, 2007), feeding Omni Gen-AF® increased concentrations of neutrophil Lselectin and interleukin-1 beta. A subsequent study with dairy cattle (Wang et al, 2009) indicated that the product altered expression of a broad spectrum of neutrophil genes including interleukin-8 receptor and interleukin converting enzyme. While changes in gene expression are of interest academically, one might question whether this regulation results in a change in the physiology of neutrophils. As a result, the goal of this study was to assess effects offeeding OmniGen-AF® on the phagocytic ability of neutrophils. Ability of OmniGen-to elicit these changes was examined in three species (bovine, rat, mouse) against three bovine pathogens (Streptococcus uberis, E.coli, and Arcanobacterium pyogenes).
Factors Influencing Bovine Respiratory Disease in Stocker and Feeder Cattle
Authors: Smith Robert A.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) continues to be the major health problem of stocker and feeder cattle, despite many years of research and technological advances. Animal husbandry practices that reduce stress have long been shown to reduce BRD morbidity, such as reducing commingling, weaning/preconditioning, performing routine surgeries early in life, nutritional management, and biosecurity. These management practices complement vaccination programs by reducing stress, and ultimately morbidity rates.

This paper is not an in-depth review of management practices that influence morbidity, but rather cites several examples of how animal husbandry practices can reduce stress and associated morbidity rates.
Bovine Field Restraint
Authors: Miesner Matt D.
Published: February 2023

Restraint of cattle is a vital portion of practice. Knowing and applying methods of basic physical restraint is a necessity. By combining physical restraint methods with multimodal chemical restraint, better patient cooperation and analgesia enhance results.
Dairy Production
Authors: Capper Jude L. , Cady Roger A. , Bauman Dale E.
Published: February 2023

The sustainability of the US dairy industry is an increasingly significant issue. Producers are challenged with increasing the supply of dairy products to meet the demands of the growing population, whilst maintaining the tradition of environmental stewardship. Advances in nutrition, management, and genetics resulted in a fourfold improvement in dairy cow milk yield between 1944 and 2007. This allowed the US dairy industry to produce 59% more milk using 64% fewer cows and conferred considerable reductions in feed (77%), land (90%), and water (65%) use per gallon of milk. The carbon footprint of the entire US dairy industry was reduced by 41% over the same time period. The global livestock industry is thought to contribute 18% of greenhouse gases worldwide. However, this global average does not address the variability between systems. Instead, differences in system productivity demonstrate the considerable variation in potential environmental impact between dairy regions. Improving productivity arguably has the greatest potential to reduce the environmental impact of dairy production, regardless of system characteristics. As dairy industries worldwide pledge to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions, attention should be focused on a whole-system life cycle assessment approach rather than racing to find a 'magic bullet' solution focused at a specific process that may confer negative trade-offs.
Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity Data
Authors: Busby Darrell
Published: February 2023

Consignors to the Iowa Tri-County Steer Carcass Futurity are able to utilize growth, health, and carcass data to make changes in their cowherd. Non-weaned calves were 3.4 times more likely to experience bovine respiratory disease (BRD) than weaned calves, independent of differences in age, test center, or vaccine status. Calves vaccinated with killed vaccines were 2.2 times more likely to experience BRD than calves vaccinated with modified-live virus vaccines, independent of other factors.

Other factors influencing net return and carcass traits are discussed in detail.
Tips and Tools for Troubleshooting Nutritional Management on Dairy Herds
Authors: Oetzel Garrett R.
Published: February 2023

Veterinarians can play an important role in troubleshooting nutritional management problems on dairy herds. While nutritionists typically do the bulk of these activities, veterinarians bring a different and complementary perspective to nutritional management. Specific areas where veterinarians may become involved include evaluating diet formulation, individual feed ingredients, feed mixes or the total mixed ration, consistency and frequency of feed delivery, and amount of feed called for each pen. Dairy clients receive the best consulting services possible when there is a healthy respect and appropriate tension between veterinarians and nutritionists.
Working with Small Ruminant Shows and Sales
Authors: Rowe Joan Dean
Published: February 2023

Veterinarians can be a valuable resource to youth and livestock producers in presenting healthy, attractive sheep and goats for public display or sale by working with fairs and sales to exclude sheep and goats with contagious diseases and zoonoses, unsightly conditions, and animals otherwise unsuitable for public display. Complete and accurate certificates of veterinary inspection and compliant scrapie identification, consistent pre-show or sale health examinations, and review and assessment of rules and policies to best serve the owners, management, and public are key ways veterinarians can contribute to shows and sales. Exhibition sheep and goats must always be considered food-producing animals rather than companion animals when making medical decisions regarding drug use and medical outcomes. Working directly with youth and the organizing committees to assure safe housing and rules which inform exhibitors and provide a framework for fair and equitable rules of enforcement are key to assuring the satisfaction of livestock exhibitors, show or sale management, and the consumer public.
Management of the Severely Parasitized Small Ruminant
Authors: Roberson Jerry R.
Published: February 2023

The most common reason for anemia in small ruminants is internal parasitism. Hemonchus contortus (barber pole worm) is a voracious bloodsucker that typically resides in the abomasum. The condition may occur in both young stock and adults alike. With the ever-increasing issue of parasite resistance, practitioners will be faced with small ruminants that are severely anemic. Providing that there are no other serious disease conditions, these cases can have successful outcomes. Management of the severely parasitized small ruminant (goat, sheep, camelid) is detailed, and subsequent herd/flock parasite management is discussed.
Three Interesting Cases and Small Ruminant Tips
Authors: Roberson Jerry R.
Published: February 2023

More and more people have goats as pets, and goat production is on the increase. Owners are often willing to invest in more extensive medical and surgical procedures. Three interesting cases are discussed below. Although the clinical signs are common (anemia, neurologic deficits, and an enlarged abdomen), the actual diagnoses are relatively rare.
Small Ruminants for Technicians
Authors: Roberson Jerry R.
Published: February 2023

Goats and sheep have traditionally been production animals and continue to provide meat, milk, and clothing worldwide. However, the pet sheep and especially the pet goat have become much more common than even 10 years ago. Basic husbandry, handling, and common diseases of goats and sheep are discussed.
Day in the Life of a Large Animal Veterinary Technician
Authors: White David P.
Published: February 2023

A veterinary technician can be an asset to a large animal practice. One benefit to having a large animal technician is that they can help a veterinarian to become more efficient throughout the day. The use of a technician allows the veterinarian to focus more of their time to the technical aspects of veterinary medicine. There are also many advantages to being a large animal technician, which include a variety of duties involving an outside work environment.
Association of Coagulase Negative Staphylococcal Species and Milk Somatic Cell Count of Cows from the Canadian National Cohort of Dairy Farms
Authors: Perry J. , Middleton J. , Dufour S. , Scholl D. , Calloway C. , Anderson S.
Published: February 2023

Staphylococci are a diverse group of gram-positive cocci that can infect the cow's mammary gland. For the purposes of diagnosing intramammary infection (IMI), staphylococci are classified based on their ability to clot plasma (coagulase test) as either coagulase-positive or coagulase-negative. The most commonly isolated coagulase-positive staphylococci, S. aureus, is considered a major mastitis pathogen. In contrast, coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) have historically been classified as minor mastitis pathogens and are rarely, if ever, further differentiated when diagnosing an IMI. The assumption has been that, as a group, CNS cause minor elevations in milk somatic cell count (SCC). However, there has been recent interest in the role of CNS in mammary gland inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between CNS species and mammary quarter SCC.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis in Naturally Exposed Dairy Calves
Authors: Bolton M. W. , Pillars R. B. , Grooms D. L. , Mauer W. A. , Kaneene J. B.
Published: February 2023

Johne's disease (JD) is a chronic disease of ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP). It has generally been accepted that cattle become infected as calves by ingesting MAP shed by adult cows. Due to MAP's slow-growing nature, JD has a long incubation period with clinical signs not becoming evident in infected cattle for years. However, infected cattle often shed MAP before the onset of clinical signs, albeit intermittently and at low levels. With a recent study documenting horizontal transmission of MAP from calf to calf, identifying infected cattle in the early stages of JD has become even more important. Fecal culture (FC) on Herrold's egg yolk media (HEYM) is only 50% sensitive in identifying subclinically infected adult animals. Studies using an automated liquid culture system report improved test sensitivity, capable of identifying MAP at lower levels than culture on HEYM. The purpose of this study was to determine if fecal shedding of MAP could be detected in naturally exposed dairy calves using a liquid culture system (ESP II).
Application of Sentinel Serology in a BVDV Eradication Program
Authors: Corbett E. M. , Grooms D. L. , Bolin S. R. , Bartlett B.
Published: February 2023

In 2007, the Michigan Upper Peninsula BVDV Eradication Program was launched. The purpose of this project is to eradicate bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from a geographic area and, in doing so, identify benefits derived from and obstacles encountered during the eradication program. An important goal of the project was to develop a feasible model that may be adopted by other parts of the US. Key components of the program include identification and removal of cattle persistently infected with BVDV, institution of a planned biosecurity program, and appropriate BVDV vaccination. Whole-herd testing to identify cattle persistently infected with BVDV is a major investment of both time and money for producers. Therefore, development of more efficient herd-testing strategies would be beneficial. Serological evaluation of small groups of young, non-vaccinated calves has been proposed as an alternative method for identifying herds with cattle persistently infected (PI) with BVDV. The objective of the study reported here was to evaluate the application of sentinel serology as an ongoing herd monitoring tool to detect entry of BVDV into a herd. The goal of sentinel testing is to provide an effective herd screening tool that can be used in follow-up surveillance in an eradication program.
Patterns of Pen Stocking Density on Dry lot and Freestall Dairy Farms in the Western United States
Authors: Moore D. A. , Kinder D. R. , Sischo W. M.
Published: February 2023

Stocking density in dairy cattle pens appears to affect resting time, feed intake, milk production, lameness, reproduction, hygiene, behavior, and health of the cows. Stocking density can be calculated by the number of linear feet of bunk space per cow, number of cows per freestall, or number of cows per drylot area. Stocking density measures are part of animal welfare auditing guidelines and are important for veterinary investigation of herd health and performance concerns. The purpose of this project was to describe the features of all the cattle pens on large dairy farms in the west and assess farm-level stocking density by pen.
Automated Methods to Detect Lameness, the Effects of Analgesic Drug Treatment, and the Effects of Hoof Trimming in Dairy Cows
Authors: Wagner S. A. , Chapinal N. , De Pasille A. M. , Rushen J.
Published: February 2023

Lameness in dairy cows is a commonly occurring condition that causes decreased productivity and diminished well-being. Lameness has been shown to affect gait, weight distribution, and amount of time spent lying down in dairy cows. Automated methods of measuring weight distribution and standing, walking, and lying behaviors were used, in conjunction with evaluation of gait, to measure the effects of hoof trimming and systemic treatment with the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ketoprofen and flunixin meglumine in dairy cows.
Effect of 14/11 Presynch/Ovsynch on First Service Conception Rates of Lactating Dairy Cows Compared to AI following a Detected Estrus
Authors: Strickland Jaimie , Neuder Lou , Jimenez-Krassel Fermin , Martins Joao Paulo , Pursley J. Richard
Published: February 2023

Fertility of lactating dairy cows has declined during the past 40 years yet fertility of heifers has remained constant. Lactating dairy cows have larger follicles and corpora lutea compared to heifers yet significantly less estrogen and progesterone concentrations in circulation. Follicles must attain greater age and size to have sufficient concentrations of estrogen to induce estrus and an LH surge. This likely compromises fertility of cows that are artificially inseminated following a detected estrus. New Ovsynch programs are designed to initiate Ovsynch near day 6 or 7 of the estrous cycle to control follicle growth, increase number of corpora lutea, and subsequent concentrations of progesterone in vivo prior to the PGF of Ovsynch. Cows must be pre-synchronized in order initiate Ovsynch on day 6 or 7 of the cycle in the greatest percentage of cows possible. The 14/11 Presynch/Ovsynch program improves the percentage of cows that are near day 6 or 7 of the estrous cycle at the start of Ovsynch, and thus enhances ovulation to the first GnRH of Ovsynch and progesterone concentrations at time of PGF of Ovsynch seven days later.
Generation of Histophilus somni Mutants Deficient in Biofilm Formation or Attenuated in Virulence
Authors: Sandal I. , El-Hadidy M. , Inzana T. J.
Published: February 2023

Histophilus somni is an etiologic agent of bovine respiratory disease and various systemic diseases. A variety of virulence factors have been identified in H. somni, such as the lipooligosaccharide phase variation, the filamentous hemagglutinin, biofilm formation, and others, which act primarily to protect the pathogen against host defense mechanisms. Thorough investigation of the role of these virulence factors has been compromised because mutagenesis of H. somni using allelic exchange is difficult due to the apparently tight restriction modification system in virulent strains.
Characterization of Testing and Longitudinal Prevalences for PI-BVDV Cattle in the Beef Industry
Authors: Stevens E. T. , Thomson D. U. , Lindberg N.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the sample submission forms from a commercial PI-BVDV testing laboratory located in central Kansas.
Development of an ELISA for Detection of Bovine Pregnancy
Authors: Velek Katherine , Michaud Shona , Boucher Kate , Djuranovic Nevena , Plourde Lori , Rice Anna
Published: February 2023

Accurate and timely detection of pregnancy in dairy cows is an essential component of today's reproductive management programs. Veterinarians and farmers use early detection of non-pregnant (open) cows to enable faster re-breeding and shorten the calving interval, thereby maximizing milk production and revenue for the farm. The cost for each additional day that a cow is open is estimated to be up to $5 per day. IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is developing an ELISA for the accurate detection of pregnancy as early as 28 days post-breeding, which provides veterinarians and dairy farmers with another tool for the early identification of open cows.
Comparison of Long-term CIDR-based Estrous Synchronization Protocols on Estrous Response and Pregnancy Rates in Postpartum Beef Cows
Authors: Powell J. G. , Rorie R. W. , Lester T. D.
Published: February 2023

Estrous synchronization and artificial insemination allow beef producers to maximize genetic improvement in their operations. However, many beef producers have been reluctant to incorporate this technology into their program due to the management requirements it entails. Therefore, any improvements to decrease time and/or labor inputs may increase the use of such technology. The CIDR-Select protocol is an effective method of synchronizing estrus in beef cows. This protocol involves 14 days treatment with a CIDR progesterone insert, GnRH treatment 12 days after CIDR removal, and treatment with prostaglandin F2alpha seven days after GnRH. The entire protocol requires over 33 days, from initial CIDR insertion to detection of estrus and insemination. Reducing the interval from CIDR removal to GnRH treatment would shorten the protocol and potentially make it more attractive for use by producers, providing effectiveness was maintained. The objective of this experiment was to characterize the estrous response and subsequent fertility of postpartum beef cows following synchronization utilizing the CIDR-Select protocol, in which the interval from CIDR removal to GnRH treatment was reduced from 12 to two days.
Can Stable Isotopes of Carbon and Nitrogen in Hair and Feces Be Used to Predict Dairy Cow Susceptibility to Periparturient Production-related Metabolic Diseases (PRMDs)?
Authors: Roeder B. L. , Davis C. A. , Wright C. K. , Homec T. J. , Leano A. D. , Eggett D. L.
Published: February 2023

The goal of this study was to provide a reliable predictive tool to detect subclinical cows at risk of PRMDs. Prepartum and parturient carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in feces can identify cows at high risk of PRMDs, and may provide an economical method for early intervention to increase profit margins.
Effects of Flunixin Meglumine and Local Anesthetic on Plasma Cortisol Concentration and Performance in Dairy Calves Castrated at Two to Three Months of Age
Authors: Webster H. , Brown L. , Jarrell V. , Wallace R. , Morin D. , Johnson Y.
Published: February 2023

Dairy calves and early-weaned beef calves are often weaned at 2-3 months of age and castrated at that time. Most studies examining the effects of analgesic and anesthetic agents on responses to castration focus on older or younger cattle. Also, no analgesic or local anesthetic agents are approved for reducing castration-associated pain in calves in the US. Extra-label use of such agents should be based on evidence of efficacy. Our objective was to provide tangible data on the effects of flunixin meglumine (FM) and local anesthesia (LA) on cortisol and performance responses associated with surgical castration in 2- to 3-month-old dairy calves.
Corn Silage Feeding Management Practices in California Dairies
Authors: Silva-del-Río N. , Heguy J. M. , Lago A.
Published: February 2023

It has been estimated that dairies can lose up to 35% of their corn silage either as a run-off, volatile organic compounds or as feed wasted. These losses could be minimized with good management practices at harvesting, ensiling, and feeding out. The aim of this study was to obtain information on current management practices when feeding corn silage in California's Central Valley dairies.
Evaluation of a Serpens Species Bacterin for Therapy of Bovine Digital Dermatitis
Authors: Fidler A. P. , Smith G. W.
Published: February 2023

Digital dermatitis (DD) is a major cause of lameness in many dairy herds. Recurrence rates are high, signaling the need to explore alternative methods of treatment and prevention. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic use of a Serpens species bacterin in a dairy herd known to have a significant prevalence of lameness due to digital dermatitis.
Efficacy of a Monovalent Leptospira borgpetersenii Serovar Hardjo Strain hardjobovis Vaccine Protocol on Measures of Fertility in Holstein Dairy Cattle
Authors: Plunkett A. H. , Graham T. W. , Oberbauer A. M. , Famula T. R.
Published: February 2023

Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo strain hardjobovis may hamper reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle, and controlling infection would be of economic value. To assess the efficacy of a commercial monovalent strain of L. borgpetersenii serovar Hardjo hardjobovis vaccine the vaccine was administered in conjunction with systemic oxytetracycline. Cows and heifers (n= 1,894) from a dairy herd naturally infected with strain hardjobovis were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, clinical trial.
Field Trial on the Effect of Propylene Glycol on Milk Yield and Resolution of Ketosis in Fresh Cows Diagnosed with Subclinical Ketosis
Authors: McArt J. A. A. , Nydam D. V. , Ospina P. A. , Oetzel G. R.
Published: February 2023

Subclinical ketosis (SCK), a metabolic disorder that can affect more than half the cows in a herd, occurs in early lactation when dairy cows are unable to adapt to the changing energy requirements necessary for substantial milk production. While propylene glycol (PG) has long been used to treat clinical ketosis, its effect on SCK has not been studied, due in part to the monitoring necessary to diagnose the disorder. The recent identification and validation of the Precision Xtra meter (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL), a rapid, accurate, and relatively inexpensive cow-side test for SCK, eases many of the previous difficulties associated with intensive monitoring programs. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of oral PG administration on resolution of SCK, prevention of clinical ketosis, and milk yield in cows diagnosed with SCK.
Sensitivity of a Real Time PCR Assay for Bovine Trichomonosis in Pooled Preputial Samples
Authors: Garcia Guerra A. , Hendrick S. , Waldner C. , Hill J. , Campbell J.
Published: February 2023

Tritrichomonas foetus has long plagued the beef industry all around the world (Campbell et al, 1993). Control of trichomonosis (trich) in beef herds is mostly based on eliminating infected bulls (Clark et al, 1983). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods are gradually replacing traditional culture in the detection of trich in preputial scrape samples. A previous study showed a sensitivity and specificity of 100% when pools of five individual samples were tested using conventional PCR (Kennedy et al, 2008). The use of a real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) based assay has been shown to improve sensitivity and specificity over conventional PCR and culture methods (McMillen et al, 2006). The objective of the present study was to evaluate the sensitivity of a commercially available RT-PCR assay for trich in pooled preputial samples at different ratios.
Effectiveness of Different Caliber of Firearms on Penetration of the Frontal Bone and Amount of Brain Matter Destruction of Feedlot Cattle Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Wileman B. W. , Thomson D. U. , Miesner M. D. , Biller D. S.
Published: February 2023

Euthanasia of an animal by gunshot or captive bolt is not aesthetically pleasing, but neither is prolonged animal suffering. Therefore, establishing protocols and guidelines for use of firearms in the depopulation of cattle is essential, because unsuccessful attempts at euthanasia are inhumane, demoralizing, and can lead to operator reticence. Usage of firearms for the depopulation of cattle is approved by both the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Bovine Practitioners as a means of euthanasia. However, there has been very little research performed to establish recommendations on what calibers of firearms and suitable munitions to employ to accomplish the objective while avoiding excessive firepower which could result in the projectile exiting the target. The objective of this study was to examine the effects different caliber of firearms have on the penetration of the projectile(s) fired into the cranium, and the amount of brain matter destruction incurred in the disembodied heads of feedlot cattle as evidenced by computed tomography (CT).
Comparison of Milk BVD ELISA Results with Ear Notch Testing, between Milk Sample Handling Methods and with Cow Characteristics
Authors: Wilson D. J. , Rood K. , Goodell G.
Published: February 2023

The primary objective was to study a milk ELISA test for detection of antibody against p80 (p80/125 nonstructural protein) of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in comparison with standard ear notch testing for cows persistently infected (PI) with BVDV. BVDV is an important cause of respiratory disease, diarrhea, abortion and infertility, and poor calf performance in dairy herds. Secondary objectives included evaluation of four methods of handling Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA) milk meter-collected milk samples for possible differences in BVD test results, and to study cow characteristics, such as parity and stage of lactation, and their association with anti-BVD antibody detection.
Conductive Cooling Technology Applied to Free-stall Beds for Holstein Cows in Central California
Authors: Lehenbauer T. W. , Aly S. S. , Rossow H. A. , Champagne J. D. , Ledgerwood D. N.
Published: February 2023

Most dairies with free-stall barns in central or southern California use cooling systems consisting of fans combined with water soakers or misters to deal with the effects of heat stress on lactating dairy cattle during hot summer temperatures. Although these systems have been widely adopted and have been shown to be effective for minimizing losses in milk production related to summer heat stress, these systems require consumption of significant amounts of electricity and water for their operation. Conductive cooling technology was retrofitted into a free-stall barn to evaluate its potential effectiveness for cooling cows compared to a conventional cooling system. An overall purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of installing heat exchanger mats in beds of an existing free-stall barn. The primary research objective was to measure milk production for a short period of time during the summer in a randomized clinical trial comparing cows using freestall housing with fans and soakers with cows having access only to free-stall beds with heat exchanger mats providing conductive cooling.
Prevalence of Oral, Pharyngeal and Respiratory Infection in Mycoplasma bovis Experimentally Infected Neonatal Calves
Authors: Keehner A. M. , Felice M. , Oliveira S. , Schneider C. S.
Published: February 2023

Mycoplasma bovis is an important etiologic agent of neonatal calf disease such as pneumonia, arthritis, otitis media, and conjunctivitis. Oral colonization of calves with M. bovis may be an important risk factor in the development of these disease conditions. Many pharmaceuticals used to treat calfhood infectious disease are often ineffective against M. bovis, due to the unique physiologic characteristics of the pathogen. Establishing effective animal model systems to study the pathophysiology and treatment of mycoplasmosis is important. The objective of this study was to establish oral, pharyngeal, and respiratory system colonization of M. bovis in milk-fed calves using a virulent, outbreak, wild type strain in experimentally infected neonatal bull calves. We hypothesized pathogenic wild type strains of M. bovis would be more effective in establishing respiratory colonization than previous ATCC strains tested in our model system.
Resistance or Susceptibility to Production-Related Metabolic Diseases (PRMDs) Can be Predicted with Fecal and Erythrocyte Isotopic Signatures
Authors: Roeder B. L. , Yamada N. , Ford J. C. A. , Maharjan S. , Nguyen J. D. , Eggett D. L.
Published: February 2023

Feces and RBC isotopic signatures in close-up and parturient cows correctly classified -75% as healthy or at PRMD risk. Measuring C and N SIA as a management tool during the peripartum period may provide an economical method to identify cow resistance or susceptibility to PRMD, for retention, breeding, early treatment intervention, or culling decisions to increase profit margins.
buyer's point of view about animal welfare
Authors: Walker Jennifer B.
Published: February 2023

While many feel as if animal agriculture has been thrust into the animal welfare debate, the reality is, other segments of animal agriculture have been entrenched in the conversation for years while the dairy industry has, until recently, remained at periphery. The reason for this, I believe, may be due in part to the fact that the dairy industry is not commonly associated by consumers with the death of animals. As a result, the dairy industry has not received a great deal of attention from activist organizations until relatively recently. In spite of the frustration that comes with such criticism, the dairy industry stands to benefit from the experience of other segments of animal agriculture. For every difference between beef, poultry, egg, pork, and dairy there are similarities. Developing an effective and defensible approach to animal welfare will require that we not only recognize these similarities and differences, but that we understand what consumers and customers are seeking as well, and it requires that we empower the care givers and stewards to promote and safeguard the welfare of dairy cattle. Accomplishing either one of these tasks alone will not be sufficient in meeting the challenges that lie ahead. We must success at both tasks. To do this, we must first understand the history of our relationship with animals, how it has changed and how those changes have affected consumers and their expectations of animal care in agriculture.
Using mixed treatment comparison meta-analysis to compare interventions in bovine practice
Authors: O'Connor Annette M.
Published: February 2023

Traditional meta-analysis involves a pairwise comparison of two interventions with one outcome. In this review mixed treatment comparisons (MTC) meta-analysis is discussed, which enables the comparison of multiple treatments using direct and indirect information from a network of trials. Mixed treatment comparisons meta-analysis is also known as network analysis. Although a potentially powerful tool for decision-making, several key assumptions are necessary for validity, and frequently these will not be met. As with any meta-analysis, MTC meta-analysis has the potential to propagate biases that occur at the trial level. Further, because of the assumptions necessary for MTC, bias can be introduced at the meta-analysis level, especially when trial populations compared are not comparable. In this review, we discuss how MTC meta-analysis may be used in bovine practice and raise concerns about its use.
Why cows die on dairies
Authors: Garry Franklyn , McConnel Craig
Published: February 2023

On-farm death of adult dairy cows is a significant problem for both economic and animal welfare reasons. Adult cow mortality losses on dairies have increased in recent years. These losses and their causes are not carefully monitored or evaluated on most dairies, leaving producers and veterinarians without the information needed to manage them. The reasons cows die are multiple and complex, necessitating an improved approach to diagnosis, information management and analysis.
Mortality in different management systems
Authors: Dechow Chad D. , Goodling Robert C.
Published: February 2023

The objectives of our research are to investigate associations of mortality and culling by 60 days-in-milk with herd management systems and to evaluate the impact of sire selection on mortality rate. Herd management surveys were obtained for 314 herds that had mortality rate and 60-day culling rate data available. Mortality and 60-day culling rate were associated with five herd management systems that were identified from survey data: free-stall herds with complete confinement for lactating cows; free-stall herds with some level of outdoor access for lactating cows; tie-stall herds with complete confinement for lactating cows; tie-stall herds that fed a total mixed ration (TMR) and with outdoor access for lactating cows; and tie-stall herds that did not feed a TMR and with outdoor access for lactating cows. Mortality and 60-day culling rates were highest for free-stall herds with complete confinement (8.3% mortality) and lowest for tie-stall herds that did not feed a TMR and with outdoor access for lactating cows (2.0% mortality). Genetic selection for longer productive life reduced mortality in all management systems. The results of this and other studies suggest that intensive management systems (reduced pasture access, intensive feeding programs, free-stall housing) are associated with higher rates of mortality.