AI-Accelerated prostate MRI: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Prostate cancer ranks among the most prevalent cancers affecting men globally. While conventional MRI serves as a diagnostic tool, its extended acquisition time, associated costs, and strain on healthcare systems, underscore the necessity for more efficient methods. The emergence of AI-acceleration in prostate MRI offers promise to mitigate these challenges. METHODS: A systematic review of studies looking at AI-accelerated prostate MRI was conducted, with a focus on acquisition time along with various qualitative and quantitative measurements. RESULTS: Two primary findings were observed. Firstly, all studies indicated that AI-acceleration in MRI achieved notable reductions in acquisition times without compromising image quality. This efficiency offers potential clinical advantages, including reduced scan durations, improved scheduling, diminished patient discomfort, and economic benefits. Secondly, AI demonstrated a beneficial effect in reducing or maintaining artifact levels in T2-weighted images despite this accelerated acquisition time. Inconsistent results were found in all other domains, which were likely influenced by factors such as heterogeneity in methodologies, variability in AI models, and diverse radiologist profiles. These variances underscore the need for larger, more robust studies, standardisation, and diverse training datasets for AI models. CONCLUSION: The integration of AI-acceleration in prostate MRI thus far shows some promising results for efficient and enhanced scanning. These advancements may fill current gaps in early detection and prognosis. However, careful navigation and collaborative efforts are essential to overcome challenges and maximize the potential of this innovative and evolving field. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This paper reveals overall significant reductions in acquisition time without compromised image quality in AI-accelerated prostate MRI, highlighting potential clinical and diagnostic advantages.

Nanomaterial-microbe cross-talk: physicochemical principles and (patho)biological consequences.

The applications of nanoparticles (NPs) are increasing exponentially in consumer products, biotechnology and biomedicine, and humans, as well as the environment, are increasingly being exposed to NPs. Analogously, various (pathogenic) microorganisms are present at all the major exposure and entry sites for NPs in the human body as well as in environmental habitats. However, the field has just started to explore the complex interplay between NPs and microbes and the (patho)biological consequences. Based on recent insights, herein, we critically reviewed the available knowledge about the interaction of NPs with microbes and the analytical investigations including the latest intravital imaging tools. We have commented on how the NPs' characteristics influence complex formation with microorganisms, presented the underlying physicochemical forces, and provided examples of how this knowledge can be used to rationally control the NP-microbe interaction. We concluded by discussing the role of the biomolecule corona in NP-microbe crosstalk and speculated the impact of NP-microbe complex formation on the (patho)biological outcome and fate of microbial pathogens. The presented insights will not only support the field in engineering NPs with improved anti-microbial activity but also stimulate research on the biomedical and toxicological relevance of nanomaterial-microbiome complex formation for the anthropocene in general.

Effects of ractopamine hydrochloride on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and physiological response to different handling techniques.

Feedlot cattle ( = 128; BW = 549 ± 60 kg) were used to evaluate the effects of ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) on growth performance, physiological response to handling, and mobility during shipment for slaughter in a study utilizing a split-plot design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments: 1) diet (CON [no ß-adrenergic agonist] vs. RAC [400 mg·animal·d ractopamine hydrochloride for 28 d]) and 2) handling intensity (HI; low-stress handling [LSH; cattle moved at a walking pace with no electric prod use] vs. high-stress handling [HSH; cattle moved at a minimum of a trot and an electric prod applied while in the alley for posthandling restraint and during loading for shipment to the abattoir]). Cattle fed RAC tended to have greater ADG and G:F ( = 0.06), and had greater HCW and LM area ( = 0.04). The HI treatments were applied on the day after the 28-d growth performance period. Blood samples were collected before HI treatment (baseline), after HI treatments (POSTHAND), after transport to the abattoir (POSTTRANS), and during exsanguination at slaughter. A diet × HI interaction ( = 0.01) was observed in the change in cortisol from baseline to POSTTRANS, and there tended ( ≤ 0.07) to be diet × HI interactions for the change in epinephrine from baseline to POSTHAND and for the change in creatine kinase (CK) from baseline to POSTTRANS. Feeding RAC and HSH both increased the change from baseline to POSTHAND in norepinephrine and pH ( ≤ 0.05). The HSH cattle also had greater changes from baseline to POSTHAND in blood HCO, base excess, partial pressure of CO, lactate, cortisol, and glucose ( ≤ 0.01). Ractopamine and HSH both produced greater increases in CK concentrations from baseline to slaughter ( < 0.01). Mobility was not affected by RAC at the feedlot or following an average 6-h lairage ( ≥ 0.43). This study confirms RAC improves growth performance and suggests metabolic acidosis, a precursor to fatigued cattle syndrome, develops in cattle allowed to trot without the use of a lead rider regardless of RAC administration. Cattle fed RAC displayed altered hormonal responses to handling and transport stress, and the overall proportion of cattle with compromised mobility appears to increase later in the marketing channel. These findings warrant additional research aimed at better understanding the physiological response to stress and protect the welfare of cattle during shipment for slaughter.

Effect of handling intensity at the time of transport for slaughter on physiological response and carcass characteristics in beef cattle fed ractopamine hydrochloride.

The effects of handling intensity on the physiological response and carcass characteristics of feedlot cattle fed ractopamine hydrochloride were evaluated at the time of transport to slaughter. Eighty steers (BW = 668 ± 36 kg) representing 10 lots of similar breed, frame size, and degree of finish were blocked by lot, stratified by weight, and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 handling intensities (HI) over a 1,600 m dirt alley course: 1) low-stress handling (LSH) or 2) high-stress handling (HSH). For the LSH treatment, 4 penmates were kept at a walk with the use of a lead rider. For the HSH treatment, 4 penmates were kept at a minimum of a trot and received 2 applications of an electric prod (approximately 1 s per impulse) at 2 separate instances: first in the alley before post-handling sampling, and again during loading for transportation to the abattoir. Behavioral observations and physical indicators of stress were recorded a minimum of 1 h before handling (baseline), immediately after handling (POSTHAND), and while in lairage after a 200 km transport to the abattoir. Vital parameters were recorded at baseline and POSTHAND. Venous blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture at baseline and POSTHAND, and mixed arterial and venous blood samples were collected during exsanguination at slaughter. Muscle tremors tended to be more prevalent in HSH cattle at POSTHAND ( = 0.10). The HSH cattle tended to have greater POSTHAND heart rate ( = 0.08); however, there was no effect of HI on POSTHAND respiration rate or rectal temperature ( 0.34). The HSH cattle had greater lactate, epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, and glucose concentrations at POSTHAND ( ≤ 0.02). Additionally, HSH cattle had lower POSTHAND blood pH, bicarbonate, base excess, and partial pressure carbon dioxide ( < 0.0001). Bicarbonate concentrations were greater in HSH cattle at slaughter ( = 0.05); however, there were no differences between HI treatments for the remaining blood variables ( 0.11). Concentrations of stress hormones and CK were significantly greater at slaughter relative to baseline and POSTHAND for both LSH and HSH cattle ( < 0.001). These findings suggest cattle trotted without a lead rider develop metabolic acidosis, and illustrate the importance of low-stress handling at the time of transport for slaughter. Further research is warranted to develop strategies to mitigate stress at the time of transport and ensure the welfare of beef cattle presented to abattoirs.

Assessment of Gene Flow Between Gossypium hirsutum and G. herbaceum: Evidence of Unreduced Gametes in the Diploid Progenitor.

In the framework of a gene flow assessment, we investigated the natural hybridization rate between Gossypium hirsutum (AADD genome) and G. herbaceum (AA genome). The latter species, a diploid progenitor of G. hirsutum, is spontaneously present in South Africa. Reciprocal crosses were performed without emasculation between G. herbaceum and G. hirsutum Neither examination of the morphological characteristics nor flow cytometry analysis of the 335 plants resulting from the G. hirsutum × G. herbaceum cross showed any hybrid features. Of the 148 plants produced from the G. herbaceum × G. hirsutum cross, three showed a hybrid phenotype, and their hybrid status was confirmed by SSR markers. Analysis of DNA content by flow cytometry and morphological traits clearly showed that two of these plants were triploid (AAD). The third plant had a flow cytometry DNA content slightly higher than G. hirsutum In addition, its morphological characteristics (plant architecture, presence and size of petal spots, leaf shape) led us to conclude that this plant was AAAD thus resulting from fertilization with an unreduced AA gamete of the female G. herbaceum parent. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) and meiotic behavior confirmed this hypothesis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of such gametes in G. herbaceum, and it opens new avenues in breeding programs. Furthermore, this plant material could provide a useful tool for studying the expression of genes duplicated in the A and D cotton genome.

Effects of liver abscess severity and quality grade on meat tenderness and sensory attributes in commercially finished beef cattle fed without tylosin phosphate.

Strip loin steaks (n = 119) were used to evaluate the association between liver abscess severity and USDA quality grade and meat tenderness and sensory attributes of steaks from finished feedlot cattle. Steaks were used in a 3 × 2 factorial treatment structure using a completely randomized design and were collected at a commercial abattoir located in northwest Texas. All cattle were sourced from a single feedlot and fed a common diet that did not include tylosin phosphate. Treatments were USDA quality grades of Select (SEL) and Low Choice (LC) and liver abscess scores of normal (NORM; healthy liver, no abscesses), mild (M; 1 abscess less than 2 cm in diameter to 4 abscesses less than 4 cm in diameter), and severe (SV; 1 abscess greater than 4 cm in diameter or greater than 4 small abscesses). All steak samples were collected on the same day, approximately 36-h post-mortem and were cut from the left side of the carcass at the 13th rib by a trained abattoir employee. Steaks were vacuum-packaged, and aged at 3 ± 1°C for 14-d post-mortem. Warner-Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF) and Slice Shear Force (SSF) analyses were conducted and cook-loss percentage was measured. A trained sensory panel analyzed samples for juiciness, tenderness, and flavor attributes. There were no differences among liver abscess scores for WBSF or SSF (P > 0.52). Warner-Bratzler Shear Force was lower for LC-SV than SEL-SV (P = 0.04). Sensory attributes of initial and sustained juiciness, and overall tenderness were all greater for LC than for SEL steaks (P < 0.04) and connective tissue amount was less for LC steaks when compared to SEL (P = 0.03). Liver abscess score had no effect on any sensory attributes (P > 0.70); however, there was an interaction between quality grade and liver score for myofibillar tenderness (P = 0.03). Within LC steaks, liver abscess score had no effect on myofibrillar tenderness (P > 0.05), however, in SEL steaks, M steaks were more tender than SV steaks (P < 0.03). These results indicate that within quality grades, meat tenderness or sensory attributes were not influenced by liver abscess score but that mild liver abscesses may affect the myofibrillar tenderness of SEL steaks.

Assessment of risk factors contributing to carcass bruising in fed cattle at commercial slaughter facilities.

Cattle injuries can occur during transportation due to vehicle design, transport conditions, and loading or unloading procedures and lead to carcass bruising and economic loss due to decreased carcass value. The objectives of this study were to determine whether a relationship exists between trauma incurred during unloading and prevalence of carcass bruising in finished beef cattle at commercial slaughter facilities and determine related risk factors which contribute to both trauma and carcass bruising. Breed (classified as either Holstein cattle or beef breeds), sex, distance traveled, and trailer type ("fat/feeder combination" vs. "fat" trailer) were considered risk factors which may contribute to traumatic event prevalence. When carcass bruise prevalence within each lot was used as the dependent variable, breed, sex, distance traveled, traumatic event prevalence, ribeye area, fat thickness, yield grade, and average carcass weight were considered potential risk factors. Carcass bruises were categorized by location and size, according to the Harvest Audit Program Carcass Bruise Scoring System. Traumatic events were observed while cattle exited trailers onto the unloading docks, and were categorized by location on the animal. Average traumatic event prevalence per lot was 20.4% (± 1.11%). Average carcass bruise prevalence by lot was 68.2% (± 1.15%). There was an interaction between breed and trailer type when multiple linear regression was used to explore variables contributing to traumatic events observed at unloading (P ≤ 0.05). Traumatic events were not associated with prevalence of carcass bruising, while average carcass weight and breed were associated with carcass bruising prevalence. Carcass bruising was more prevalent in Holstein cattle than in cattle which were predominantly beef breeds (P ≤ 0.01). Average carcass weight was negatively associated with carcass bruise prevalence (P ≤ 0.05). The association between traumatic events at unloading and carcass bruising is not significant when multiple variables are considered, indicating that bruising may occur at numerous other points prior to and during the transportation process, including loading and transport, and that other variables can contribute to carcass bruise prevalence. These areas should be explored to determine all potential causes of bruising in beef carcasses, and to help implement prevention practices.

Twenty-four hour Holter monitoring in finishing cattle housed outdoors.

INTRODUCTION: Atrial premature complexes have been reported to be the most common arrhythmia in cattle and is suspected to be secondary to systemic disease, especially gastrointestinal disease. In order to properly identify pathologic arrhythmia in cattle, the normal rhythm and arrhythmia prevalence should be defined. The objective of this study was to determine the normal heart rate, rhythm, number of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs), and atrial premature complexes (APCs) in unrestrained Angus steers. ANIMALS: Twenty-seven client owned steers with unremarkable physical examinations and serum biochemical analyses were used. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four hour Holter monitors, attached by a custom-made harness, were retrospectively evaluated. Three lead electrocardiographic registrations of good quality and normal sinus rhythm were obtained from all steers in the study. RESULTS: The mean heart rate was 66.8 bpm ± 16.4 bpm. Ventricular premature complexes were rare (noted in 14.8% of steers), and APCs were common (noted in 85% of the steers). Simple second degree AV block was observed in 18.5% of the steers. CONCLUSION: In summary, healthy steers have rare single VPCs, although it is possible for an individual animal to have apparent more frequent VPCs. Mean heart rate varies with a diurnal pattern similar to other species. Atrial premature complexes are the most prevalent abnormality observed in feedlot steers.

Cattle handling technique can induce fatigued cattle syndrome in cattle not fed a beta adrenergic agonist.

Angus crossbred steers (n = 40; 563 ± 44 kg) were used to examine the effects of handling method and fat thickness on the blood chemistry and physiology of market steers. Steers were blocked by backfat (BF) thickness and were randomly assigned to treatment groups: low-stress handling (LSH) and aggressive handling (AH). Cattle were then ran¬domly assigned to one of 5 blocks containing 4 steers from the LSH and AH treatments. Steers in the LSH treatment were walked and AH cattle were run through a course of 1,540 m. Blood samples were obtained via jugular venipuncture before handling (BASE), at 770 m (LAP1), at 1,540 m (LAP2), and at1 h (1H) and 2 h (2H) after finishing the course. Blood samples were analyzed for plasma lactate (LAC), creatinine kinase (CK), base excess (BE), blood pH (pH), serum cortisol (CORT) concentrations, and venous carbon dioxide (PvCO2) and oxygen (PvO2) pressures. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and rectal temperature (TEMP) were measured at the same intervals. Cattle in the AH treatment had greater ( < 0.05) LAC than those in LSH at BASE (4.1 vs. 3.0 mmol/L), LAP1 (16.5 vs. 2.3 mmol/L), LAP2 (22.3 vs. 2.4 mmol/L), 1H (7.2 vs. 2.7 mmol/L), and 2H (4.0 vs. 2.5 mmol/L), respectively. Creatinine kinase and RR were not different (P > 0.14). Blood pH in AH cattle was decreased compared with that in LSH cattle ( < 0.05) at LAP1 (7.25 vs. 7.45) and LAP2 (7.19 vs. 7.48) but was not different ( > 0.13) at BASE, 1H, or 2H. Heart rate and TEMP were increased in AH cattle compared to LSH ( > 0.01). Serum cortisol was increased ( < 0.05) in AH compared to that in LSH cattle at LAP1 (87.5 vs. 58.9 nmol/L), LAP2 (144.4 vs. 93.1 nmol/L), and 1H (113.5 vs. 53.1 nmol/L). Although RR was not differ¬ent between LSH and AH, PvCO2 was decreased in AH compared to that in LSH ( < 0.05) at LAP2 (30.6 vs. 39.3 mmHg) and PvO2 was increased at LAP1 (42.7 vs. 33.5 mmHg) and at LAP2 (51.5 vs. 36.6 mmHg). Lactate was increased in AH cattle in the thicker BF group at 1H ( < 0.05), and blood pH was decreased at LAP1, LAP2, and 1H ( < 0.05) compared to the thinner BF cohorts. Four AH steers became exhausted (EXH) and did not complete the course. Increased CK, decreased PvCO2, and muscle tremors occurred in EXH steers compared to non-exhausted AH cohorts. Results of this study show that AH causes physiologic and blood chemistry changes in steers, which can be potentially detrimental to cattle, emphasizing the need for low-stress handling practices.

The effects of dry-rolled corn particle size on performance, carcass traits, and starch digestibility in feedlot finishing diets containing wet distiller's grains.

Crossbred yearling steers ( = 360; 395 ± 33.1 kg initial BW) were used to evaluate the effects of dry-rolled corn (DRC) particle size in diets containing 20% wet distiller's grains plus solubles on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, and starch digestibility. Steers were used in a randomized complete block design and allocated to 36 pens (9 pens/treatment, with 10 animals/pen). Treatments were coarse DRC (4,882 µm), medium DRC (3,760 µm), fine DRC (2,359 µm), and steam-flaked corn (0.35 kg/L; SFC). Final BW and ADG were not affected by treatment ( > 0.05). Dry matter intake was greater and G:F was lower ( < 0.05) for steers fed DRC vs. steers fed SFC. There was a linear decrease ( < 0.05) in DMI in the final 5 wk on feed with decreasing DRC particle size. Fecal starch decreased (linear, < 0.01) as DRC particle size decreased. In situ starch disappearance was lower for DRC vs. SFC ( < 0.05) and linearly increased ( < 0.05) with decreasing particle size at 8 and 24 h. Reducing DRC particle size did not influence growth performance but increased starch digestion and influenced DMI of cattle on finishing diets. No differences ( > 0.10) were observed among treatments for any of the carcass traits measured. Results indicate improved ruminal starch digestibility, reduced fecal starch concentration, and reduced DMI with decreasing DRC particle size in feedlot diets containing 20% wet distiller's grains on a DM basis.

Cofactor-independent human antiphospholipid antibodies induce venous thrombosis in mice.

UNLABELLED: Essentials Cofactor-independent antiphospholipid antibodies (CI-aPL) are generally considered non-pathogenic. We analyzed the effects of human monoclonal CI-aPL in a mouse model of venous thrombosis. As shown in vitro, CI-aPL induce a procoagulant state in vivo by activation of endosomal NADPH-oxidase. Contrary to common belief, CI-aPL induce venous thrombosis in vivo. SUMMARY: Background There is general consensus that the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is caused by antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) with antibodies against ß2-glycoprotein-I being the most relevant. aPL that bind phospholipids in the absence of protein cofactors are generally considered pathogenetically irrelevant. We showed that cofactor-independent human monoclonal aPL isolated from APS patients induce proinflammatory and procoagulant cellular responses by activating endosomal NADPH-oxidase 2 (NOX2). Similar aPL were detected in all IgG fractions from APS patients analyzed. Objectives We aimed to clarify if cofactor-independent aPL can be thrombogenic in vivo and, if so, whether these effects are mediated via activation of NOX2. Methods Two cofactor-independent human monoclonal aPL, HL5B and RR7F, were tested in a mouse model of venous thrombosis. Genetically modified mice and in vitro assays were used to delineate the mechanisms underlying thrombus induction. Results HL5B and RR7F dramatically accelerate thrombus formation in this mouse model. Thrombus formation depends on tissue factor activation. It cannot be induced in NOX2-deficient mice. Bone marrow chimeras of C57BL/6J mice reconstituted with NOX2-deficient bone marrow showed that leukocyte activation plays a major role in thrombus formation. Neither TLR4 signaling nor platelet activation by our aPL is required for venous thrombus formation. Conclusions Cofactor-independent aPL can induce thrombosis in vivo. This effect is mainly mediated by leukocyte activation, which depends on the previously described signal transduction via endosomal NOX2. Because most APS patients have been shown to harbor aPL with similar activity, our data are of general relevance for the APS.

Effect of shade on animal welfare, growth performance, and carcass characteristics in large pens of beef cattle fed a beta agonist in a commercial feedlot.

Feedlot cattle ( = 1,395; BW = 568 ± 43 kg) were used to evaluate the effects of shade on animal welfare, growth performance, and carcass quality during the summer of 2013 in a Kansas commercial feedlot. Seven lots of predominately black steers and heifers (4 and 3, respectively) visually determined to be approaching the final mo on feed were identified, randomly gate-sorted, and allocated to pens located across the feed alley from each other to receive 1 of 2 treatments: 1) Shade (mean shade area = 1.5 m/ animal) or 2) No shade. Shade was provided using a 13-ounce polyethylene fabric and pens were oriented northwest to southeast. The mean starting date was June 13 and the mean days on feed for lots while on the study was 38 d. Cattle were fed a 77.67% DM steam-flaked corn-based diet and had ad libitum access to water throughout the duration of the trial. Zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZIL) was included in the finishing ration at an inclusion rate of 8.3 mg/kg of DM for the last 20 d on feed with a 3 d withdrawal period. Pen floor temperatures (PFT) were measured using an infrared thermometer and prevalence of cattle open-mouth breathing (OMB) was recorded on a pen basis. In addition to shade treatment, the effect of temperature humidity index (THI) on PFT and OMB was analyzed by classifying days as either "Alert" (THI < 79) or "Danger" (THI > 79). On the day of slaughter, pens within a replicate were kept separate through all stages of the marketing channel from loading at the feedlot until stunning at the plant. Pen served as the experimental unit for all measurements. There was a THI × shade treatment interaction for PFT and OMB ( < 0.001) where days classified as "Danger" increased PFT and prevalence of OMB compared to "Alert" days in unshaded but not shaded cattle. Shaded cattle had greater DMI ( = 0.01); however, unshaded cattle had greater G:F ( = 0.05) and therefore no differences were observed in ADG ( = 0.39). Shaded cattle had greater dressing percentage ( = 0.01), although HCW, LM area, fat thickness, marbling score, and quality grade did not differ between treatments ( > 0.05). Heat stress, a significant animal welfare concern and cause of reduced performance in feedlot cattle during the final phase of the feeding period, was alleviated in shaded cattle and illustrates the importance of shade provision as 1 tool to protect the welfare and increase feed consumption in large pens of feedlot cattle during hot summer months.

Feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride is associated with decreased dry matter intake shortly after initiation of feeding dependent on season and previous intake.

A database of daily feed deliveries for steers and heifers fed at 3 commercial feedyards in Kansas between January 1, 2010, and January 31, 2012 (n = 1,515 pens), was used to investigate the prevalence and extent of changes in DMI after initiation of feeding zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZIL) at 8.3 mg/kg (DM) for 20 d. Season affected the percentage of pens experiencing a decrease in DMI post-ZIL (P < 0.01), but there were significant (P < 0.01) season × sex, season × feedyard, season × pre-ZIL DMI, season × days post-ZIL, and season × period post-ZIL interactions. Average DMI decreased within 1 d after initiation of ZIL feeding in all seasons; however, this initial decrease was greater (P < 0.01) in the summer (-0.30 kg) and winter (-0.27 kg) than in the spring (-0.05 kg) or fall (-0.06 kg). The decrease in DMI averaged across all days post-ZIL was greater in summer than during other seasons for both steers and heifers, and the change in intake was greater in steers than heifers in all seasons but fall. Size of intake change within each season varied by feedyard and by season. The percentage of pens that had a large DMI decrease (≥ 0.9 kg/d) was greatest during the summer (33%), and the percentage of pens with no decrease was the least (15%); during the fall, 34% of pens had no DMI decrease and only 8% of pens had a large decrease in DMI. Intake before ZIL initiation affected size and prevalence of DMI decrease; with increasing pre-ZIL DMI, the percentage of pens with a decrease increased from 62% for pens with pre-ZIL DMI of less than 7.7 kg/d to 82% for pens consuming greater than 10.5 kg/d pre-ZIL (P < 0.01). Of those pens with greater than 10.5 kg/d pre-ZIL DMI, 27% had DMI decrease of greater than 1.4 kg/d compared to only 3% for pens consuming <8.7 kg/d pre-ZIL. The average dosage of ZIL consumed per animal with an average DMI of 7.3, 8.2, 9.1, 10.0, and 10.9 kg/d was calculated to be 61, 68, 76, 83, and 91 mg/animal daily, which may be related to the differences in DMI decrease. Pre-ZIL DMI contributed to DMI decrease during ZIL administration, but the increased occurrence and size of DMI decrease during the summer may indicate an additional physiological mechanism.

High-dose anabolic implants are not all the same for growth and carcass traits of feedlot steers: a meta-analysis.

A meta-analysis of studies evaluating feedlot steer implant programs was conducted to evaluate the differential effects of anabolic implant dosage on feedlot performance and carcass traits. The effect sizes of the implant dosage of interest vs. negative controls and vs. other implant dosages on various dependent variables (ADG, F:G, DMI, dressing percentage [DP], HCW, yield grade, percentage Choice or higher, and marbling score) were calculated. Treatments used for comparisons included no implant, EST (20 mg estradiol benzoate + 200 mg progesterone, 36 mg zeranol, or 72 mg zeranol), ET120 (24 mg estradiol 17ß + 120 mg trenbolone acetate [TBA]), and ET200 (28 mg estradiol benzoate + 200 mg TBA or 20 mg estradiol-17ß + 200 mg TBA). In the first analysis, the 3 implant dosages were compared to negative control. A second analysis was conducted to compare ET120 vs. ET200 using only studies that included a direct comparison of these 2 dosages. The number of studies included in the analysis for each implant dosage and response variable ranged from 34 to 7. A mixed model was used to evaluate individual implant treatments; implant dosage was a fixed effect, and individual study was included as a random effect. All dosages had greater ADG, DMI, and HCW and lower F:G, percentage Choice, and marbling score vs. negative controls (P < 0.05) In the second direct comparison analysis, ET200 tended to have greater ADG (P = 0.10) and HCW (P = 0.07) and had lower F:G (P < 0.01) and percentage of carcasses grading Choice or greater (P < 0.01) vs. ET120. Differences in HCW between ET120 and ET200 diminished numerically with increasing days of implant activity (P < 0.01). All dosages of implants evaluated herein increased performance and decreased quality grade vs. negative controls. Combination implants containing estrogen (E) and 200 mg TBA have greater potency for growth promotion than implants containing E+120 mg TBA resulting in slightly greater performance.

A survey of gross pathologic conditions in cull cows at slaughter in the Great Lakes region of the United States.

The prevalence and severity of multiple gross pathologic lesions and abnormalities in cull dairy and beef cows was evaluated at a commercial abattoir in the Great Lakes region of the United States; 1,461 cattle were examined at slaughter over the course of 3 production days and evaluated for the occurrence and severity of lung, liver, rumen, and carcass abnormalities and pathologies. Of the 1,461 cattle examined at slaughter, 87% were classified as Holstein cows and 13% were classified as other cows. Liver abscesses were observed in 32% of the population and over half were classified as severe (18.5% population prevalence). The frequency distribution of cattle observed with a liver abscess was not different among production days. Severe ruminal lesions and rumenitis scars were observed in 10.0% of the population, and 25.1% of cattle were observed to have short or denuded papillae. Severe bovine respiratory disease complex lesions were observed in 10.3% of cattle. The most common reason for USDA postmortem carcass condemnation was malignant lymphoma (9 of 41). Only 45.9% of carcasses were free from bruising. Results indicate that ruminal acidosis and bovine respiratory disease complex occur at a relatively high frequency in this population. Although cows are routinely culled for reproductive failure or low milk production, the underlying reason may be causally related to these relatively prevalent conditions. Further investigation is warranted to assess this relationship and to examine the use of specific health intervention strategies within this demographic of cattle.

An audit of the current U.S. Department of Agriculture frame size scoring system.

Feedlot and carcass data from steers (n = 16,700) and heifers (n = 6,357) originating from 16 different states and fed in 17 feedlots located in southwest Iowa were used to evaluate the accuracy of the USDA frame score for predicting final BW of fed cattle. Frame score was recorded by USDA or state personnel for cattle either before leaving the state of origin or on arrival at the terminal feedlot. Mixed model procedures were used to investigate relationships between USDA frame score and measures of live performance and carcass traits. Other fixed effects included in the model included USDA muscle score, sex, age classification on feedlot entry (calf: ≤270 d of age, yearling: 271-365 d of age, and long yearling: >365 d of age), BCS on feedlot arrival, number of treatments for respiratory disease, hide color, and site of frame or muscle scoring; the interactions of sex × frame score and hide color × frame score were also included; fat thickness was included as a fixed effect (covariate) in the analysis of ADG, final BW, days on feed, LM area, marbling score, and quality grade. Random effects included in the model were year of feedlot arrival and feedlot in which cattle were fed. The system accurately projects the minimum target final BW for large frame steers and heifers; however, the final BW of the smallest medium frame steers and heifers exceeds the target minimum final BW by 35 and 40 kg, respectively. When frame score was assigned post facto based on actual final BW (adjusted to 1.27 cm fat thickness), it was determined that large frame was over-assigned by graders (62 vs. 35% for steers and 54 vs. 32% for heifers, actual score vs. postharvest score, respectively), medium frame was underassigned (37 vs. 51% and 46 vs. 58% for steers and heifers), and small frame was underassigned (0.7 vs. 15% and 0.6 vs. 10% for steers and heifers; K = 0.01, P < 0.01). Across sexes, of the cattle assigned to small, medium, or large frame score, 40, 59, and 43% actually had final BW (adjusted to 1.27 cm fat thickness) within the guidelines for the target final BW of each of the frame scores (P < 0.01). The present frame score system accurately reflects the modern feedlot cattle population; however, adjustments in the assignment of frame scores to reflect changes in technologies and final weights may be warranted.

Prevalence, severity, and relationships of lung lesions, liver abnormalities, and rumen health scores measured at slaughter in beef cattle.

An array of management tools exists within the beef industry to improve animal welfare and productivity; however, the ability to assess the outcomes of these tools is needed. Deficiencies in management commonly manifest as bovine respiratory disease complex or nutritional disorders such as acidosis; therefore, lung, liver, and rumen gross pathology lesions present at slaughter were measured as part of the Harvest Audit Program (HAP) and associations with performance determined. Individual gross pathology data from 19,229 cattle at commercial packing plants in Kansas and Texas were collected. Corresponding individual preharvest and carcass data were obtained on a subset of 13,226 cattle. Associations between lesions and performance were modeled using multivariable mixed effect models. Regression coefficients were used for estimation of lesion associative effects on continuous outcomes and odds ratios for dichotomous outcomes. Across the entire population, 67.3% of the cattle had no pulmonary lesions; 22.5 and 9.8% of cattle displayed mild and severe lesions, respectively. Severe pulmonary lesions were associated with a decreased ADG of 0.07 kg and a HCW 7.1 kg less than cohorts with no pulmonary lesions (P < 0.01). Overall, 68.6% of cattle observed had normal livers. Of cattle severely affected by liver abscesses (A+; 4.6%), 14.9% also displayed severe pulmonary lesions and 28.3% displayed mild pulmonary lesions. Rumenitis lesions were observed in 24.1% of the overall study population. Of cattle with mildly abscessed livers (A-), moderately abscessed livers (A), and severely abscessed livers, 20.6, 21.6, and 9.24% displayed mild or severe rumenitis lesions at slaughter. Severe rumenitis lesions were associated with a significant decrease in ADG and HCW (0.025 and 2.20 kg, respectively; P < 0.001). Although the majority of the cattle in this population would be considered low risk, after adjustments for cattle with multiple lesions, 22.9% of cattle in the overall population were observed with a severe lesion (lung, liver, or rumen). In conclusion, a gross pathology monitoring system is feasible and the 22.9% prevalence of severe lesions (lung, liver, or rumen) indicates that significant opportunity exists to improve beef cattle health, well-being, and productivity. Data generated using HAP may be used to support decisions concerning the implementation or removal of managerial practices and health interventions in beef cattle production systems.

Effects of three dehorning techniques on behavior and wound healing in feedlot cattle.

Crossbred horned steers and heifers (n = 40; BW = 311.8 ± 4.7 kg) were used to determine the effect of dehorning methods on pain, cattle behavior, and wound healing. Cattle were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments: 1) control (CON), 2) banded using high tension elastic rubber (BAND), 3) mechanically removed (MECH), or 4) tipped (TIP). Vocalization and behavior were recorded during the dehorning process. Wound healing scores, attitude, gait and posture, appetite, and lying were recorded daily. Vocalization scores were highest for MECH cattle and BAND cattle vocalized more than TIP and CON (P < 0.05). Attitude (P = 0.06), gait and posture (P = 0.06), and lying scores (P < 0.05) were higher for BAND cattle in the days following procedures compared to MECH, TIP, and CON cattle. Cattle in the BAND treatment tended (P < 0.13) to have higher appetite scores than the other methods. Wound healing scores (horn bud and bleeding) were higher for BAND cattle than MECH, TIP, and CON cattle (P < 0.05). These data indicate that MECH is a painful procedure for cattle at the time of the procedure. Banding to remove horns from cattle is not recommended based on the data and observations from this study.

Effects of delayed steroid implanting on health, performance, and carcass quality in high health risk, auction market-sourced feedlot steers.

Auction-derived feeder calves (n = 1,601; initial BW = 273.5 ± 4.7 kg) were used to examine effects of delayed administration of the initial steroid implant on health, performance, and carcass characteristics of feedlot cattle. Steers were procured from multiple auction markets in the southeastern United States and shipped to a central Kansas feedyard over a 6-wk period from December 2009 to January 2010. Steers were rested overnight before processing, then were randomly assigned, within arrival block, to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) implanted with Revalor-XS (40 mg estradiol and 200 mg trenbolone acetate) immediately upon arrival or 2) implanted with Revalor-XS 45 d postarrival. Cattle were weighed by pen using a group scale immediately after processing of each block. Feed deliveries were measured using load cells on feed trucks and recorded daily. Cattle were evaluated daily for morbidity and mortality by feedyard health personnel. Sick or injured cattle were removed from the home pen for further diagnosis and treatment. Individual animal health data were obtained and recorded daily. Final BW was calculated by dividing HCW by average dressing percent of the pen. Carcass data (quality grade and yield grade) were obtained by USDA personnel; presence of lung lesions, pleural adhesions, and liver abscesses were evaluated by trained university personnel. Delaying the initial implant tended to reduce morbidity (24.7 vs. 28.5%; P = 0.13) and reduced the percentage of animals requiring early salvage harvest due to chronic, nonresponsive respiratory disease (1.8 vs. 3.3%; P = 0.02). However, there were no effects of timing of implant administration (P ≥ 0.31) on rates of retreatment, mortality, lung lesions, or pleural adhesions. Implanting immediately upon feedlot arrival resulted in no effect on ADG or feed conversion (P ≥ 0.30). Cattle implanted upon arrival had numerically greater HCW and yield grade vs. cattle implanted on d 45; however, these differences were not significant (P ≥ 0.16). Delaying the initial implant 45 d did not greatly influence animal health, performance parameters, or carcass characteristics in feeder calves at high risk of developing bovine respiratory disease.