bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of an activity monitoring system for detecting early behavioral markers of respiratory disease development in young dairy calves
Authors: Prado Maria E. , Wilkerson John , McGuirk Sheila , Krawczel Peter D.
Published: February 2023

Dairy calf pneumonia (DCP) is a highly prevalent and economically significant problem of dairy calves. DCP commonly affects calves during the pre-weaning and/or post-weaning periods, and is one of the most diagnosed conditions postmortem in calves less than 5 months of age (Hill et al, 2009; Virtala et al, 1996). Aside from the deleterious effects that DCP has on the calf (i.e. decreased performance), the negative impact extends well into adulthood affecting its subsequent productivity and lifespan within the herd (Bach, 2011; Waltner-Toews et al, 1986; Warnick et al, 1997).The ability to identify calves during the initial stages of respiratory disease development is difficult and relies on subjective observations made by farm personnel. However, some behavioral changes in sick calves might be more associated with early disease stages, such as spending more time in the bucket and remaining standing for longer periods after feeding when compared to healthy calves (McGuirk, personal communication). Thus, objective monitoring of activity and feeding behavior may allow for earlier disease detection and intervention, potentially decreasing the consequences of DCP later in the calf’s life. Recent studies demonstrated that group housing or daily increased provision of milk decreased the incidence of disease and increased the daily gain. These findings suggest the potential for a positive effect of the social interactions stemming from group housing. The objective of this study was to identify early behavioral markers of respiratory disease using an activity monitoring device in young dairy calves subjected to standard or high-milk feeding levels (standard or high) and housing (individual or group) on the incidence of respiratory disease in young dairy heifers.
Penetrating captive-bolt euthanasia of goats
Authors: Plummer P. , Shearer J. , Ramirez A. , Kleinhenz K. , Weber W. , Shearer L.
Published: February 2023

Anatomical placement of a penetrating captive bolt device (PCB) when euthanizing animals is critical to ensure vital structures are damaged, thereby rendering animals immediately unconscious and death occurring without a return to sensibility. Although PCB are an approved method for euthanizing small ruminants, the current peer-reviewed literature contains discrepancies regarding the appropriate anatomic site to be used for euthanasia procedures. Currently, 2 important documents, American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2013 Euthanasia Guidelines (AVMA) and World Organization for Animal Health’s Terrestrial Code (OIE), are in disagreement over the recommended site for captive bolt placement in small ruminants. The AVMA 2013 guideline recommends use of a frontal site high on the forehead aiming towards the foramen magnum as an alternative site in horned goats. The OIE recommends the frontal site be used for gunshot only. Exact positioning of a PCB at the poll is poorly described in the literature. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal anatomical site for PCB placement in horned and polled goats to ensure brainstem disruption consistently occurs.
Producer concern and prevalence of subclinical intramammary infections between lactations on 10 dairy goat farms in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Zobel G. , Leslie K. , Weary D. , Von Keyserlingk M. A. G.
Published: February 2023

For many dairy goat producers, a key deciding factor for keeping does in the herd is the animal’s ability to maintain milk production. Subclinical intramammary infections (IMIs) are known to decrease milk production in does by as much as 20% (Contreras et al, Livest Prod Sci, 2003). Somatic cell count (SCC) is a reliable and inexpensive predictor of infection in dairy cows; however, this measure is highly variable in goats depending on factors such milk production, stage of lactation, and estrus activity (Leitner et al, J Dairy Sci, 2004; Paape et al, Small Rumin Res, 2007; Persson et al, Small Rumin Res, 2014), making identification of infected glands by SCC level problematic. Thus, it is likely that producers underestimate infection prevalence on their farms. While IMIs are possible throughout lactation, the highest risk period for infection is when does are transitioning from one lactation to the next. On many farms, goats are dried-off (i.e., milking is ceased) and during the dry period infections may go unchecked and new infections begin. In other situations, does are not dried-off between lactations. The aims of this study were 2-fold: 1) to assess the attitudes of the producers regarding IMIs on their farms, and 2) to determine the prevalence of these infections during the dry period.
Improving beef cattle welfare
Authors: Lee Tiffany L. , Thomson Daniel U.
Published: February 2023

Animal welfare is at the epicenter of values-based and science-based reasoning. A question which must be posed is "Do scientific professionals consider animal welfare an established scientific field?" In many areas of animal production and research, the answer is a resounding yes. However, it must be established in all areas of science involving animals, and it must be maintained as a scientific field. To do so, we must be able to show that animal welfare can be measured and assessed using both subjective and objective measures. Animal welfare can be measured on a day-to-day basis by the producers and veterinarian who work directly with the animals, using outcome-based measures. When outcome based measures are used, we can assess why certain management practices are put into place, and what impact those practices are making on production and welfare. According to the OIE (2008), the criteria for measurement of animal welfare include cattle behavior, morbidity rates, mortality rates, changes in weight and body condition, reproductive efficiency, physical appearance, handling responses, and com¬ plications due to routine procedure management. By using these and other outcome-based measures, animal welfare will become an established scientific field in which observations can be measured and recorded so that management changes and improvements can be implemented to maintain and improve welfare on production units.
Pre-weaning bovine respiratory disease in the cow-calf herd
Authors: Smith David R.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in beef calves prior to weaning is a problem for 1 in 5 cow-calf farms. Preweaning BRD is a costly problem for the cattle industry and a detriment to animal well-being. This is a perplexing health problem because ranch calves typically live in conditions of little stress and relative isolation, risk factors commonly associated with BRD in weaned calves. Some factors that appear to be related to BRD risk in pre-weaned calves are waning maternal immunity, loss of herd immunity in herds with short calving periods, activities that result in increased animal density, calf gender, and age of the dam. Collectively, these factors are related to the calf’s ability to resist infection and to opportunities for pathogen exposure. Activities such as commingling and weaning may have less impact on calf health if they are completed prior to or after calves are 3 to 5 months of age, thereby avoiding the period of greatest susceptibility. Vaccination programs intended to induce adequate immunity in calves prior to 90 days of age have shown some efficacy, but require further study.
Bovine thoracic ultrasonography
Authors: Rademacher Ryan D.
Published: February 2023

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) continues to be the major animal health concern facing the North American cattle feeding industry. Despite improvements in technologies and the development of new antimicrobials, morbidity and mortality rates have remained flat or even increased. Thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) is a technology that has shown promise as a chute-side diagnostic tool for BRD. Degree of lung consolidation, as determined by TUS, has been negatively correlated to clinical outcome in cattle pulled for signs attributable to BRD and not treated with antimicrobials (negative controls). Thoracic ultrasonography is relatively simple to perform, and many of the available ultrasound machines and probes used for bovine reproductive ultrasonography can also be used to examine the lungs and pleura. While the procedures and techniques for large-scale use in a production setting remain to be validated, practitioners may currently be able to use the technology to add accuracy and value to their recommendations for case management of individual animals.
New developments in digital dermatitis control
Authors: Cook Nigel B.
Published: February 2023

Recent work has provided a greater understanding of the etiopathogenesis of digital dermatitis (DD) infection within cattle populations. With enhanced lesion scoring and an understanding of the transitioning between lesion stages, coupled with improved data-gathering systems, we now understand the significance of the chronic stages of the disease in herd-infection dynamics. Herd control of DD must begin during the heifer-rearing period. Breeding resistant animals and use of in-feed organic trace mineral supplements are coupled with active surveillance for early acute stages of the disease. Combined with strategic foot bathing and hoof-trimming, when fully implemented on a farm, these strategies can reduce the incidence of the disease and provide a sustainable solution to this troublesome problem.
Sand lanes
Authors: Hardesty M. E.
Published: February 2023

Sand is the best bedding for freestall-housed dairy cows; however, sand-laden manure presents several handling issues. Well-designed sand lanes separate sand from manure, minimizing handling issues at relatively low costs. Reclaimed sand can be as clean, or cleaner than, new sand in well-designed and operated systems. Sand reclamation rates vary from 60 to 98%, so the design and operation of the sand lanes is important. Sand lanes can be used with flush barns and with barns that scrape alleys to flumes or collection pits. Advantages of each will be discussed.
Keys to successful robotic milking systems
Authors: Salfer Jim , Endres Marcia
Published: February 2023

The use of robotic milking systems is growing rapidly in North America. Most installs have been on smaller farms that desire an improved lifestyle and to minimize the need to hire labor. The majority of robotic milkers are single box systems where one robot arm services one milking box, but some newer designs are multi-box where one robotic arm will service two to five milking boxes.

The two types of cow traffic in robotic milking systems are guided flow and guided flow. In free flow cow have free access to feed, the lying area and the milking robot. Guided flow systems have pre-selection gates that help guide cows that need milking to the robot.

There are several keys to making robotic systems successful. One major factor is that successful producers really like working with cows. Robotic milking systems require excellent management for success. Other major factors that drive success include feeding management and well-designed facilities that facilitates excellent cow flow and efficient labor management. It is important that producers develop realistic cash flows. Taking a whole system approach in design and management will maximize the RMS performance.
Association of bedding type with production and milk quality on larger Wisconsin dairy farms
Authors: Rowbotham R. F. , Ruegg P. L.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to determine bedding and milking management practices associated with milk production and bulk-milk quality on large Wisconsin dairy farms.
Use of Antibiotics on U.S. dairy operations
Authors: Lombard J. E. , Fossler C. P. , Adams A. E. , Kopral C. A.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to describe the use of antibiotics on dairy operations.
Validation of a prototype cow-side instrument for the measurement of blood ionized calcium concentrations in dairy cattle
Authors: Neves R. C. , Stokol T. , Curler M. D. , Thomas M. J. , McArt J. A. A.
Published: February 2023

There is currently no efficient and inexpensive method for field measurement of blood calcium concentrations. Ionized calcium (iCa) is the homeostatic form of the mineral and is thought to have greater biological relevance over that of total calcium. The objective of this study was to evaluate the linearity and precision of a prototype cow-side instrument (Horiba, Japan) for measuring blood iCa concentrations.
Fetuin-A dynamics in transition cows' plasma
Authors: Strieder-Barboza C. , Contreras G. A.
Published: February 2023

Around parturition and during early lactation, cows enter a state of negative energy balance (NEB) driven by the onset of lactation and a reduced dry matter intake. The major metabolic adaptation to NEB is adipose tissue lipolysis that releases nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) into systemic circulation. High plasma NEFA predisposes cows to metabolic and inflammatory based diseases that negatively impact animal welfare and increase economic losses to dairy producers. However, not all cows with increased plasma NEFA concentrations develop a disease, thus underscoring the need for novel lipid mobilization-related biomarkers that could improve accuracy of disease prediction. In humans, high fetuin-A concentrations have been identified as an independent marker of insulin resistance and a predictor of type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver. Furthermore, elevated human fetuin-A concentrations are strongly associated with dyslipidemias. Fetuin-A is an abundant carrier of NEFA in plasma and is mainly expressed in hepatocytes, monocytes/macrophages, and adipocytes. Fetuin-A inhibits insulin receptor signaling and therefore increases lipolysis and NEFA efflux from adipose tissues. Despite its strong link with lipolytic processes, fetuin-A expression in plasma and its relationship with metabolic markers in transition cows remains poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate the dynamics of serum fetuin-A and its association with NEFA during the transition period.
Improved fertility of cows failing to respond to resynchronization of ovulation through presynchronization of ovulation or progesterone supplementation during Ovsynch
Authors: Thomas M. J. , Giordano J. O. , Curler M. D. , Stangaferro M. L. , Catucuamba G. , Wijma R.
Published: February 2023

The most widely adopted Resynch program by US dairy herds consists of the initiation of Resynch at 32 d after a previous artificial insemination (AI) regardless of pregnancy status. Seven days later pregnancy status is determined so that non-pregnant cows continue in the protocol to receive their next timed AI (TAI). This program guarantees that cows not detected in estrus are re-inseminated within a specific timeframe after the previous AI (42 ± 3 d if groups of cows are enrolled weekly), reducing the interval between inseminations. Retrospective evaluation of pregnancy per AI (P/AI) for cows that complete the protocol and receive a TAI service has shown that cows without a corpus luteum (CL) at the time of Resynch initiation will have an approximate 50% reduction in fertility when compared with cows that do have a CL. Our objective was to evaluate treatments to increase fertility of TAI services of lactating dairy cows without a CL at the time of the prostaglandin F2α(PGF) injection of Resynch initiated 32 ± 3 d after AI.
Decay of passive antibodies in calves fed maternal colostrum or a colostrum replacer
Authors: Stampfl B. , Godden S. , Haines D.
Published: February 2023

The passive transfer of immunoglobulins to neonatal calves via maternal colostrum is a major determinant of the calf’s health early in life. It is important that each calf receive 150-200g immunoglobulin G (IgG) within two hours of birth. However, maternal colostrum (MC) can be highly variable in its IgG content and specific antibody levels. Colostrum replacers (CR) can substitute for MC and may provide a more consistent dose of both IgG mass and specific antibodies. Since high levels of colostral antibodies can interfere with the humoral immune response to vaccination, knowing the time that calves become seronegative could allow for strategic timing of vaccination to produce a more consistent protective humoral immune response. The first objective of this study was to compare the level and persistence (antibody decay curves) for specific antibodies in calves fed either MC or CR. A second objective was to investigate whether feeding a CR (vs MC) would result in a more consistent time to seronegativity, with less calf-to-calf variability. We hypothesized that both forms of colostrum would transfer similar mean levels of antibodies, but that CR would deliver a more consistent time to seronegativity for diseases of interest.
Practices for the disbudding and dehorning of dairy calves by veterinarians and dairy producers in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Winder C. B. , LeBlanc S. J. , Haley D. B. , Lissemore K. D. , Godkin M. A. , Duffield T. F.
Published: February 2023

Disbudding and dehorning (DD) dairy calves are common management procedures performed on-farm. Appropriate DD practices are important for the welfare of the calf, as well as public perception of the dairy industry. The objective of this study was to build on a 2004 survey of bovine veterinarians and dairy producers in Ontario to determine if DD protocols had changed over the past decade, and to examine factors associated with the adoption of pain-control practices.
use of trans-abdominal ultrasound for pregnancy detection and fetal aging before day 45 of gestation in the sheep
Authors: Jones A. K. , Gately R. E. , McFadden K. K. , Zinn S. A. , Govoni K. E. , Reed S. A.
Published: February 2023

Trans-abdominal ultrasound is a reliable technique for pregnancy detection in the small ruminant, and has become increasingly adaptable to field conditions in a production setting. Currently, limited information is available related to early pregnancy detection and estimating fetal age using this technique. Therefore, our objective was to determine the accuracy of trans-abdominal ultrasound during early pregnancy in the ewe. We hypothesized that trans-abdominal ultrasound is sensitive enough to distinguish reproductive status, and determine fetal age and number before day 40 of gestation.
Using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPS) to sort out bovine herpesvirus-1 vaccine-induced reproductive disease
Authors: Chase C. C. L. , Gibbens J.
Published: February 2023

Modified live virus (MLV) bovine herpesvirus 1 vaccines have been a major aid to the prevention of reproductive disease in cattle. However, their use (or misuse) can result in major abortions storms. We describe 3 different cases where MLV vaccines resulted in abortion storms and the use of SNP to identify the source.
new endoscopic approach for bronchoalveolar lavage compared with traditional trans tracheal lavage for BRD diagnostics
Authors: Hasseler W.
Published: February 2023

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a very common and useful diagnostic approach for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) management. Traditionally the lavage is carried out through the trachea (trans-tracheal lavage - TAL). A new hand held multiscope (endoscope with several different functions; ivetscope) has been designed for a more convenient way of BAL under field conditions. The aim of this study was to compare 2 different methods of alveolar lung lavage - the puncture of the trachea with the transtracheal lavage against the oral-laryngeal method.
Comparison of an alternative diagnostic sampling technique for Tritrichomonas foetus in cattle
Authors: Lammers B. , Dohlman T. M. , Phillips P. E. , Gauger P. C. , Dewell G. A.
Published: February 2023

Bovine trichomoniasis is emerging as a major concern in the beef industry. Standard breeding soundness exams may not include evaluation for venereal diseases. Recent advancements in PCR diagnostics have increased the ability to detect the disease in asymptomatic bulls. However, the greatest limitation is proper collection of an adequate sample. Furthermore, the low repeatability of most sample collection techniques can cause confusion and misdiagnosis. The aim of the study was to identify a technique that increased sensitivity and could easily be used during breeding soundness exams.
Effect of different intrauterine oxytetracycline treatment on reproductive performance of dairy cows with clinical endometritis and determination of oxytetracycline residues in milk
Authors: Makki Meisam , Gheisari Hamid Reza , Ahmadi Mohammad Rahim
Published: February 2023

Following intrauterine administration of oxytetracycline, therapeutic concentration and drug action will be restricted to the uterine lumen and endometrium. The main objective of this study was to see whether intrauterine infusion of oxytetracycline (OTC) is an appropriate method for the treatment of postpartum endometritis in dairy cows.
Culling perspectives from dairy producers, veterinarians, DHI and feed mill advisors
Authors: Haine D. , Arsenault J. , Bouchard É. , Dubuc J. , Cue R. , Wade K. , Sewalem A. , Lacroix R. , Lefebvre D. , Rushton J.
Published: February 2023

While minimizing total losses (sum of production loss and disease control expenditures) is recognized to be the most profitable approach, dairy producers still have flexibility regarding the timing of their decisions, the liberty to make individual choices (e.g., genetic selection), or the handling of certain constraints (e.g., regulations, quotas, etc). Farmer's socio-psychological characteristics were demonstrated to be more important to farm performance than herd-level variables describing production, health, and fertility. Research on motivational and behavioural aspects of farmers’ decision utility are sparse, and nonexistent regarding culling expectations and the associated decision process. Our goal was to identify shared criteria on culling decision held by dairy producers and farm advisors, using a Q-methodological study, which allows for the systematic exploration of subjectivity.
Lipidomic biomarkers in colostrum and milk from production-related metabolic disease (PRMD) resistant and susceptible dairy cows
Authors: Roeder B. L. , Martin H. M. , Cook A. C. , Buckmiller E. M. , Brown K. K. , Kang H.
Published: February 2023

Although the highest incidence for most production-related metabolic diseases (PRMDs; hypocalcemia, hepatic lipidosis, ketosis, left displaced abomasum-LDA, mastitis, laminitis) occurs within 60-days-in milk (DIM), the disease incidence has not been altered by transition diets, manipulating prepartum dietary cation anion balance, and overconditioning avoidance. PRMDs significantly affect economic returns with altered milk composition or decreased production, conception, life expectancy, and cull value. The risk for PRMD in early lactation has been correlated with increased free fatty acids (FFAs), non-esterfied fatty acids (NEFAs), triglycerides (TG), and beta-hydroxybutyrate ((3HBA) serum concentrations, hepatic TG:glycogen, and fecal stable isotope differences (13 carbon/12 carbon ratio, 613C). These observations of biochemical changes prior to PRMD onset prompted investigation of periparturient colostrum (CS) and milk (MK) lipid profiles at the beginning of lactation. The objectives of this study were to determine postpartum day 1 CS and day 4 MK lipid profiles in PRMD resistant and susceptible cows, and to determine if lipids in this CS and/or MK secreted after the transition period can be used as biomarkers to predict risk for development of PRMD.
Practitioner survey
Authors: Schlederer F. , Wehrend A.
Published: February 2023

Dystocia in cattle affects up to 50% of primiparous and 30% of adult cows. Obstetrics are crucial in order to reduce stillbirth rates. GYNstick, a new tool for treating dystocia, has been available for practitioners for almost 3 years. Nearly 400 vets in Germany and Austria are currently working with this obstetrical instrument in their daily practice, and approximately 2000 vets are using it worldwide. A survey was conducted among 49 German and 5 Austrian practitioners to obtain feedback about their experience with this instrument and their recommendations for its use.
descriptive study on hoof trimming methods in North America
Authors: Scherping M. , Klehr K. , Stoddard G. , Cramer G.
Published: February 2023

Hoof trimming is a routine procedure done to dairy cows, but no data exists to determine appropriate trimming methods. In the literature, functional hoof trimming is commonly described as the method of choice. However, other methods are commonly reported in the field. This has resulted in a continuous debate within the hoof health industry with respect to what is the appropriate trimming method. To address this question, there is a need for more scientific data on the prevalence of different trimming methods, the effect of these methods on key hoof measurements, and ultimately on the welfare of the cow. The objective of this study was to describe the effect of different trimming methods on key hoof measurements taken on cadaver hind feet of dairy cattle.
Crossing over the mountain
Authors: Crowe Vance
Published: February 2023

This talk will offer attendees the opportunity to think about how they communicate their scientific discoveries so that the general public can both understand and help carry messages forward to their own networks. This talk will demonstrate the art of storytelling, discuss how ideas are packaged into memes that must compete with all other information available, and show examples of people in a wide variety ofnetworks WHO are successfully engineering memes that outcompete fear and pseudoscience.
Stakeholder views, including the public, on expectations for dairy cattle welfare
Authors: Von Keyserlingk Marina A. G. , Weary Daniel M.
Published: February 2023

Animal welfare is emerging as one of the key social concerns regarding animal agriculture. Concern for the welfare of farms animals is not new, but the last few years have seen increased interest in farm practices. One of the dairy industry's core strengths is the very positive view that many people have about dairy farming. Many consumers believe that cows spend their days grazing green pastures. This strength can also be regarded as a threat if some industry practices no longer match evolving public expectations. Every year there are fewer farms, and the ever decreasing proportion of society that works within this industry will never be able to able to 'educate' the large majority, at least not on all issues, all of the time. Moreover, the farmers themselves are part of this rapidly evolving society, and practices that were accepted by past generations as necessary may not seem so to the next generation of producers. Change will happen. During my presentation I will highlight some of our most recent work on engaging dairy farmers and the public as a means to help identify practices that do and do not come into harmony with public expectations.
Why is change so hard?
Authors: Cary Julie A.
Published: February 2023

Awareness of the importance of communication in veterinary medicine has been heightened in the last 2 decades. Formal communication instruction is now a core requirement for all AVMA-accredited Colleges of Veterinary Medicine. The profession as a whole is realizing the importance of communication as it relates to business success, professional satisfaction, and patient outcomes. Clinicians, clients, and patients benefit from the use of evidence-based clinical communication skills; assuring accurate, efficient, and effective transfer of information. While the initial efforts for communication in veterinary medicine seemed to focus on companion animal practice, few would dispute that communication is critical for production animal veterinarians. The complexity of the contexts in which production animal veterinarians work to effect change requires even greater understanding of how people make decisions and how to influence those decisions effectively. Veterinarians are encouraged to be curious: Take the time to understand your clients and stakeholders; what extrinsic and intrinsic motivators are present? How does their organization run and why is it run that way? To ensure accurate understanding, consider demonstrating an understanding of the client through summarizing and empathy. Once there is clear understanding that has been communicated, only then can the veterinarian begin to make recommendations.
Use of antimicrobials in EU
Authors: O'Rourke Declan J.
Published: February 2023

There is a move to reduce the amount of antimicrobials used. Whilst cattle-only products are responsible for 3.5% of the total tonnage used in 2014 in the UK, cattle veterinarians are expected to reduce their use of antimicrobials. Responsible use guidelines and reducing the use of critically important antimicrobials are key to achieving this.
Anti-parasitic benefit of nematophagous fungi and Haemonchus contortus vaccine in small ruminants
Authors: Williamson Lisa H.
Published: February 2023

As anthelmintic resistance continues to escalate, the need for alternative parasite control methods in small ruminant has increased. Copper oxide wire particles and sericea lespedeza are commercially available in the United States. Several other novel control methods, such as feeding nematophagous fungal chlamydospores, and vaccination against Haemonchus contortus, hold great promise for control of gastrointestinal nematode infections in small ruminants. The Haemonchus contortus vaccine is licensed for use in sheep in Australia, but is not yet available in the United States. Experiments conducted around the world have demonstrated the excellent nematode controlling advantages of feeding Duddingtonia flagrans chlamydospores to grazing livestock. A commercially available product is expected to be available in the near future.
Close-up diet DCAD, urine pH, and total plasma calcium at calving on a commercial Jersey herd
Authors: Valldecabres A. , Rolle D. , Ramirez V. J. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

Inducing a compensated metabolic acidosis by feeding anionic salts in close-up cows has been shown by some researchers to be a useful strategy for milk fever prevention. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine the daily variability of the dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) in close-up diets; 2) evaluate the daily variability of urine pH and the proportion of cows that were properly acidified based on urine pH; 3) determine if acidification levels were maintained as parturition approached; 4) investigate the relationship between DCAD level and urine pH; and 5) evaluate the association between urine pH days prior to calving and postpartum calcium concentration on a commercial Jersey herd.
Effects of prophylactic supplementation with QuadriCalMINI oral calcium boluses on peripartum calcium, urine pH and health in a commercial Jersey herd supplemented with anionic salts
Authors: Valldecabres A. , Rolle D. , Belaid A. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

The detrimental effects that subclinical hypocalcemia has on postpartum performance and the lack of a cow-side diagnostic tool drives researchers to focus on designing preventive management strategies. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of prophylactic supplementation with oral calcium boluses after calving on postpartum calcium concentration, subclinical hypocalcemia prevalence, urine acidification, ketosis and endometritis.
Transition management practices on Wisconsin dairies stratified by Transition Cow Index™
Authors: Schnell B. P. , Simons J. C. , Cook N. B. , Ollivett T. L.
Published: February 2023

The Transition Cow IndexTM (TCI) is intended to provide an objective measure of transition cow management in a dairy herd. TCI represents the difference between the actual first-test 305-day projected milk produced by a cow and a predicted yield, which is calculated using historical information from each cow. A negative TCI indicates underperformance, whereas a positive TCI indicates that an individual cow's performance has surpassed her predicted level of production. The objective of this study is to describe herd size, rolling herd average, prefresh and fresh pen duration of stay, as well as prefresh and fresh pen bunk space per cow on Wisconsin dairies after stratification by TCI.
Milk microbiome assessed through 165 rRNA sequencing during antimicrobial treatment of mastitis
Authors: Ganda E. K. , Bisinotto R. S. , Kronauer K. , Lima S. F. , Bicalho R. C.
Published: February 2023

There is increasing concern regarding the use of antimicrobials in food animals and the possible implications in human health, such as antibiotic resistance in pathogens, highlighting the importance of judicious use of antimicrobials in production animals. Specific aims were to: 1) evaluate the effect of antibiotics on cure of clinical mastitis; 2) use high throughput sequencing to assess the microbiome of milk samples from a mastitic quarter and compare it to the microbiome of ipsilateral healthy quarter of cows diagnosed with clinical mastitis caused by either a Gram-negative pathogen or with no bacterial growth on conventional aerobic culture; and 3) evaluate the over-time effect of prolonged antibiotic therapy on the microbiome profile of mastitic milk.
Randomized non-inferiority trial comparing two commercial intramammary antibiotics for the treatment of non-severe clinical mastitis in dairy cows
Authors: Vasquez A. K. , Nydam D. V. , Capel M. B. , Ceglowski B. , Rauch B. J. , Thomas M. J. , Watters R. D. , Zurakowski M. J.
Published: February 2023

No new antimicrobials have been approved for the treatment of mastitis since 2006; it would be beneficial to perform controlled field trials comparing 2 existing treatments. Non-inferiority trials are valuable in this regard, as they do not require a negative control as in a randomized, controlled FDA drug trial. If a therapy with similar efficacy is available, decision making criteria can include convenience, lower costs, less side effects, improved delivery systems, and better integration into current protocols. The purpose was to perform a non-inferiority comparison of 2 intramammary treatments for clinical mastitis (CM). We intended to show that hetacillin had comparable efficacy to the reference treatment, ceftiofur when considering cure and survival indices.
Evaluation of an automated milk leukocyte differential test for detecting intramammary infection in early- and late-lactation quarters and cows
Authors: Godden S. M. , Royster E. , Timmerman J. , Rapnicki P. , Green H.
Published: February 2023

The dairy industry must develop mastitis control practices that can use antimicrobials judiciously while maintaining or improving udder health. One opportunity is the adoption of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) programs that treat only infected quarters or cows. Another approach may be to identify and apply selective treatment to infected quarters soon after calving. However, for such programs to be successful, we require on-farm tests with sufficient accuracy and utility to differentiate infected from uninfected quarters or cows. The objective of this study was to describe the diagnostic test characteristics of an automated milk leukocyte differential (MLD) test to identify intramammary infection (IMI) in early-lactation (EL) and late-lactation (LL) quarters and cows.
effect of anti-Il-10 IgY on health and performance of preweaned dairy calves
Authors: Raabis S. , McGuirk S. , Cook M. , Sand J. , Rieman J. , Rottenberg K. , Ollivett T.
Published: February 2023

Cryptosporidium parvum infection is a nearly ubiquitous infection in dairy herds for which there are no approved treatments or vaccines available in the US. Therefore, oral administration of immunoglobulins to control enteric disease in calves is of significant interest. Antibodies survive gastrointestinal transit, are accessible in the intestinal lumen, and remain locally active without the risk of violative residues. Our research team previously demonstrated that calves fed anti-11-10 IgY in milk had higher fecal pH, reduced respiratory disease, and increased frame measurements. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to carry out a dose-response trial evaluating the effects of feeding 0.5x, 2.0x, and lx the dose from the original study on respiratory and gastrointestinal health, C. parvum oocyst shedding, and calf growth.
use of day level feeding behaviors to detect illness in group housed automatically fed pre-weaned dairy calves
Authors: Knauer Whitney A. , Godden Sandra , James Robert , Dietrich Alyssa
Published: February 2023

Group housing and automatic feeding of dairy calves is gaining in popularity among dairy producers, yet disease detection remains a significant challenge of this management system. Software programs currently aim to assist in the detection of sick calves through such methods as flagging calves when there has been a 25% reduction in milk intake or in drinking speed as compared to a 3-day average. However, research suggests that using simple deviations in daily averages may not be useful, as calves have been shown to change behaviors only on the day of illness detection. The greater aim of our research program is to determine if we can use different approaches to examine feeding behavior that may improve the sensitivity and timeliness of detecting sick calves. The objective of the current study is to identify which feeding behaviors are most different between matched pairs of healthy and sick calves, and to determine if these changes differ by disease diagnosis.
Using a deterministic systems model to examine the effects of the postpartum period on cow-calf productivity over 10 years
Authors: Shane Douglas D. , Larson Robert L.
Published: February 2023

The duration of postpartum anestrus is important to consider for reproductive momentum and efficiency in cow~calf operations. It is challenging to fully understand the long-term impacts that the average duration of postpartum anestrus has on production. We developed a deterministic model of cow-calf production over 10 years using the software program Stella Professional to model the effects that various postpartum anestrus lengths have on measures of herd productivity, including the percent of cows pregnant at pregnancy diagnosis and the pounds of calf weaned per cow exposed.
survey to describe beef producer opinions on antibiotic use and consumer perceptions of antibiotics in the beef industry
Authors: Lee T. L. , Thomson D. U.
Published: February 2023

Antibiotic use is of interest to all involved in the beef industry, including producers, veterinarians, and consumers. Beef producers and veterinarians are constantly working together to improve animal health and production, especially in regards to antibiotic use. This survey was created by industry veterinarians at Kansas State University to explore producers' use of antibiotics in the beef industry, their opinions on antibiotic resistance, and their perceptions of consumer opinions of antibiotic use. To date, no other literature exists exploring these topics at the producer level.
Does dart gun delivery of antibiotics cause changes in drug disposition or meat quality?
Authors: Hairgrove Tom , Gill Ron , Waters Crystal , Miller Rhonda , Mays Travis , Miller Michael , Fajt Virginia
Published: February 2023

Use of remote delivery devices in non-restrained cattle has increased in the last few years, and it is unknown whether this route will result in subcutaneous delivery, appropriate drug levels, or tissue damage. The objectives were to assess the plasma disposition of labeled doses of tulathromycin, tildopirosin, and ceftiofur crystalline free acid (CCFA) delivered via dart and to determine impact on meat quality.
Hoof trimmer performance on California dairies based on observed practices during therapeutic trimming
Authors: Pineda M. , Akin I. , Lago A. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

Lameness on dairies is an important issue, with implications on animal welfare and the herd production level. Functional and therapeutic hoof trimming can serve to prevent and treat lameness and hoof lesions. On large California dairies, hoof trimming tasks are performed by in-house employees, outside service providers or both. However, most hoof trimmers (HT) lack formal education on trimming techniques and their performance is often unsupervised. Thus, the objective of this study was to describe HT performance based on observed practices during lame cow treatment on California dairies.
Impact of early detection and treatment of moderate lameness on disease progression and cow performance
Authors: García-Muñoz A. , Singh N. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

Lameness on dairies is a worldwide problem that negatively impacts animal welfare, herd production level, and social perception of livestock farming. Prompt treatment of moderate lameness cases is expected to result in better clinical cure and reduction of lameness prevalence; however, very limited research has evaluated this. The objective of this study was to study the impact of moderate lameness treatment on disease progression and milk yield.
Bacterial isolates and factors associated with infection and outcome in calves with septic arthritis
Authors: Constant C. , Nichols S. , Fecteau G. , Babkine M. , Larde H. , Francoz D.
Published: February 2023

Lameness is an important problem in cattle and is often associated with an important economic loss in beef and milk production. Because of the pain, it is becoming an important welfare issue and represents 1 of the major culling causes in dairy herds. The joint is the second most important cause of lameness after the digit.

There is in an important lack in the literature regarding prognosis and factors associated with septic arthritis in calves. The objective of the study is to determine clinical characteristics, clinicopathologic data, and bacterial culture results associated with septic arthritis in calves less than 180 days old and to establish long-term prognosis of the condition.
Hoof trimmer training and safety hazards on California dairies
Authors: Pineda M. , Akin I. , Silva-del-Río N.
Published: February 2023

Lameness and hoof lesions are important economic and animal welfare issues on dairies. Preventive and therapeutic trimming is a common management practice on modern dairies. On most California dairies, outside service providers or in-house dairy employees are in charge of hoof trimming tasks. Despite the relevance of hoof trimmer work on cow health, the quality of their work is rarely monitored by managers or veterinarians. The objective of this study was to describe how California hoof trimmers learned their trade and what safety hazards they are facing at work.
Are all bovine herpesvirus-1 reproductive disease events vaccine-induced?
Authors: Chase C. C. L. , Gillette B. , Clement T.
Published: February 2023

Modified-live virus (MLV) bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) vaccines have been a major part of the program to the prevention of reproductive disease in cattle. However, their use (or misuse) continues to result in major abortion storms. The results of 20 additional cases with reproductive losses are described where the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis was done to identify the source.
Post-partum serum albumin as a predictor of metritis
Authors: Powell J. , Rollin E.
Published: February 2023

The transition cow is in a negative nutrient balance, recognized largely as a negative energy and calcium balance. In response to the negative energy state, the body begins to mobilize body fat. In response to the negative calcium balance, the body begins to mobilize calcium stores from bone. A negative protein balance has also been documented, and results in mobilization of protein reserves from skeletal muscles. Total serum protein has been associated with cow health, but serum albumin is more specific and plays an important role in transporting triglycerides and calcium. Albumin has been proposed as a potential biomarker for health in the transition cow. The objective of this study was to determine whether low serum albumin concentrations 2 days after calving would result in an increased risk of developing acute puerperal metritis (APM). A secondary objective was to establish whether total or ionized calcium levels 48 hours post calving were associated with serum albumin levels early postpartum.
future of genetic alteration in food animal production
Authors: Van Eenennaam Alison L.
Published: February 2023

For centuries, animal breeders have intentionally selected the parents of the next generation based on their contended 'ideal' animal. The dramatic variation evidenced by the appearance and productivity of different breeds demonstrates the power of selective breeding. There are 4 variables that can be altered in breeding programs: 1) the accuracy of selection, 2] selection intensity, 3} the amount of genetic variation that is available among the selection candidates, and 4) the average age of the parents when their offspring are born. Any approach or technology that can improve 1 of these 4 components of the so-called "breeder's equation” can accelerate the rate of genetic gain. Animal breeders have routinely used both assisted reproductive technologies (e.g. artificial insemination) and advanced breeding methods (e.g. genomic selection) concurrently to accelerate genetic gains. Molecular methods to introduce useful genetic variation such as genetic engineering (GE) have met with regulatory obstacles and delay, and activist opposition. In 2017 the FDA issued a draft guidance proposing the regulation of all "intentional” genomic alterations as new animal drugs. There is a real possibility that this will preclude the development of beneficial GE and gene edited applications to the detriment of global food security and agricultural sustainability.
Myth: All calves are created equal
Authors: Northcutt S. L. , Bowman B.
Published: February 2023

The value of commercial cattle, both feeder cattle and replacement females, has traditionally been imperfect as it was basically based on weight and it did not realize the potential value differences of those pounds. Historically, the "reputation" of cattle was limited without facts and true value for the system of beef production. Characterization of cattle genetic merit in the commercial cow herd today allows value differentiation. No longer are calves valued strictly on a weaned calf-weight and price. Selection tools that were typically associated with breed organizations and purchases of registered seedstock can be extended to quantifying genetic value in commercial herds. The use of genomic technology provides metrics for growth and carcass traits to better describe genetic potential for commercial calves. Allied industry delivers DNA tests that can assist commercial producers improve calf crop genetics and value-based marketing options for calf crops. Veterinarians can play a key role in assisting their clientele with sample collection, cow-herd record assessment, and interpretation of genomic results as part of a complete whole-herd management system.