Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Accomplishments
Objective 1. To determine mechanisms that regulate reproductive processes impacting production efficiency in cattle.

Nebraska
Comparison of timed insemination vs. modified estrus- detection protocol in beef heifers. Angus-based, crossbred heifers (n = 972, 346 kg ± 14 kg) were assigned to either a fixed timed AI (FTAI) protocol or modified estrus detection with fixed-time AI (M) to evaluate synchronization, conception, and pregnancy rates. During the prebreeding development period, heifers were fed to achieve a target of 60 ± 5% mature BW at breeding. Heifers were synchronized via melengestrol acetate-prostaglandin (MGA-PG) protocol and received an estrus detection aid (patch) at PG administration. A patch score was recorded for each heifer at AI to reflect what percentage of rub-off coating had been removed. Heifers in the FTAI treatment received 2 mL GnRH injection and were AI 72 ± 2 h following PG. Heifers in MTAI treatment were observed for estrus at 58 ± 2 and 70 ± 2 h after PG. Approximately 72 ± 2 h after PGF2, heifers in MTAI were AI in the following order: heifers in estrus at 58 h post-PG, heifers in estrus at 70 h post-PG, and heifers not expressing estrus at either estrus observation. Heifers not expressing estrus received GnRH at AI. Pregnancy was determined via transrectal ultrasonography. Heifers exhibiting estrus had greater (P < 0. 01; 71 and 66 ± 5% for FTAI vs. MTAI, respectively) AI conception rates than heifers not expressing estrus in both FTAI and MTAI treatments vs. 47 and 53 ± 9% AI conception rates in nonestrus heifers for FTAI and MTAI, respectively. However, overall AI conception rate (62 ± 5%, P = 0. 49) and final pregnancy rates were similar (P = 0. 98; 96 and 97 ± 3% for FTAI vs. MTAI, respectively). Similar AI conception rates were achieved without estrus detection.

Growth and reproductive performance of yearling beef heifers implanted with Revalor G in the Nebraska Sandhills. Crossbred beef heifers (n = 3,242), approximately 12 mo of age, were managed at 3 locationsin the Nebraska Sandhills and randomly assigned to be implanted with Revalor G (40 mg of trenbolone acetate and 8 mg estradiol, IMP), whereas the control (CON) did not receive an implant. Heifers (238 ± 2 kg) grazed native Sandhills range for the duration of the trial (164 ± 4 d). Eighty-two ± 2 d following trial initiation, heifers were synchronized for estrus and AI followed with clean-up bulls as part of a 25 d breeding season. Body weight was measured at the beginning and end of trial. Pregnancy detection occurred 45 d following bull removal at the conclusion of the summer grazing period. Implanted heifers gained more and were heavier (P < 0. 05; 0. 68 vs. 0. 64 ± 0. 01 kg/d and 347 vs. 340 ± 3 kg, IMP vs. CON, respectively) at the end of the trial. In contrast, pregnancy rate was greater (P < 0. 01) for CON vs. IMP (64 vs. 46 ± 3%, respectively). Implanted heifers also had a lower pregnancy rate in their second breeding season (P = 0. 02; 93 vs. 96 ± 2%, IMP vs. CON, respectively). Implanting beef heifers with Revalor G at approximately 12 mo of age increased ADG and summer BW gain; however, it decreased initial and subsequent pregnancy rate compared with heifers not implanted.

Impact of heifer development system on subsequent ADG and reproduction in two different breeding seasons. A 4-yr study was conducted to determine the impact of heifer development system on subsequent growth and reproductive performance in 2 breeding seasons. In Exp. 1, March born, crossbred (5/8 Red Angus, 3/8 Continental; n = 225) heifers were stratified by BW and randomly assigned to of 2 post-weaning nutritional treatments (2 pasture-treatment·yr) from mid-January to mid-April. Heifers were offered ad libitum meadow hay (HAY) and 1. 81 kg/d (29% CP, DM) Supplement or allowed to graze meadow (MDW) and offered 0. 45 kg/d Supplement. Heifers were managed as a single herd before and following treatment. Heifers were synchronized with a single PG injection 5 d after being placed with bulls for a 45 d breeding season. HAY heifers had greater (P = 0. 01) ADG during the treatment period than MDW heifers (0. 77 vs. 0. 51 ± 0. 03 kg/d; HAY, MDW). At pregnancy diagnosis, HAY heifers tended to have greater BW compared with MDW heifers (P = 0. 06; 377 vs. 367 ± 3 kg; HAY, MDW). Percent of mature BW before the breeding season was greater (P = 0. 02) for HAY compared with MDW (58% vs. 55% ± 1%; HAY, MDW). Pregnancy rates were similar for HAY and MDW heifers (P = 0. 97, 88 ± 4%). In Exp. 2, May-born, crossbred (5/8 Red Angus, 3/8 Continental; n = 258) heifers were stratified by BW and randomly assigned to HAY or MDW treatments. Similar to Exp. 1, heifers on HAY treatment had greater (P = 0. 01) ADG during the treatment period (0. 63 vs. 0. 39 ± 0. 03 kg/d; HAY, MDW), resulting in greater prebreeding BW (P = 0. 02) for HAY heifers compared with MDW heifers (320 vs. 305 ± 3 kg, respectively). At pregnancy diagnosis, BW was similar (P = 0. 16) between treatments (368 vs. 356 ± 4 kg; HAY, MDW). Percent of mature BW before the breeding season was greater (P = 0. 02) for HAY (58%) compared with MDW (54%). Pregnancy rates were similar (P = 0. 44) between treatments (72 vs. 68 ± 4%; HAY, MDW). Heifer development system did not impact pregnancy rate in the March or May replacement heifers; however, March heifer pregnancy rate was greater (P < 0. 01) than May (87 vs. 70 ± 3%). The lower pregnancy rate in May heifers may be due to declining forage quality during the breeding season.
Effect of postweaning heifer development system on average daily gain, pregnancy rates, and subsequent feed efficiency as a pregnant heifer. A 4-yr study was conducted using Angus-based, spring born heifers. In yr 1, weaned heifers grazed corn residue (CR, n = 50) or were fed in a dry lot (DLHI, n = 50). In yr 2, 3, and 4, heifers grazed CR (n = 75), upland range (RANGE, n = 75), or were fed diets differing in energy, high (DLHI, n = 75) or low (DLLO, n = 75), in a dry lot. Percentage of mature BW before the breeding season was greater (P = 0. 01) for DLHI (67%) compared with Range (59%), CR (60%), and DLLO (63%). Pregnancy rates to AI were similar (P = 0. 39) among treatments (67, 63, 61, 49 ± 7. 2%; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO), and final pregnancy rates were also similar (84, 90, 91, 91 ± 5. 4%; Range, CR, DLHI, DLLO; P = 0. 59). A subset of AI pregnant heifers from each treatment was placed in a Calan gate system. Heifers were allowed a 20 d acclimation period before beginning the 90 d trial at approximately gestational d 170. Heifers were offered ad libitum hay; amount offered was recorded daily and orts collected weekly. Initial BW was not different (P = 0. 35) among treatments (451, 457, 472, 464 ± 10 kg; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO). Body weight at the end of the trial was also similar (P = 0. 24; 488, 497, 511, 502 ± 14 kg; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO). Intake was similar, either as DMI (P = 0. 27; 9. 74, 9. 97, 10. 18, 10. 00 ± 0. 76 kg; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO) or residual feed intake (P = 0. 61; 0. 094, 0. 091, – 0. 056, –0. 0743 ± 0. 160 kg; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO). There was no difference in ADG (P = 0. 36; 0. 38, 0. 45, 0. 43, 0. 41 ± 0. 17 kg/d; RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO) among treatments. Although the development cost was not different among treatments (P = 0. 41; $166, 141, 160, 171 ± 12, RANGE, CR, DLHI, DLLO), there was a $30 numerical difference between the most (DLHI) and least (CR) expensive treatment. Developing heifers to a greater prebreeding BW did not influence subsequent AI or overall pregnancy rates or feed efficiency as a pregnant heifer.

North Dakota
A technique to ovariohysterectomize cattle for use in gestational research. The time period from conception through the embryonic stage of development is critical in terms of establishment, recognition, and maintenance of pregnancy to term. Research on factors influencing embryonic development up to d 14 is relatively simple. Much less is known about the influences on conceptus (embryo and membranes) development from the time embryo flushing becomes impossible to the end of the embryonic stage (~d 16 to d 50 in bovine). This technique offers a plethora of opportunities to explore factors related to pregnancy success and document embryo and placental development in detail.

Before the establishment of trans-placental exchange, nutrients must be transported to the embryo via nutrient transporters. Glucose transporter GLUT3 is known as a greater affinity, facilitated diffusion glucose transporter found in high glucose demanding tissues such as the brain, placenta, sperm, preimplantation embryos and some cancers. The objectives of our current study were 1) develop an immunohistochemistry technique to localize GLUT3 in bovine utero-placental tissues, and 2) confirm the presence and location of GLUT3 in bovine utero-placental tissues. We hypothesized that GLUT3 would be present in utero-placental tissues from d 16 to 50 of gestation. These results accomplished our objectives and clearly supported our hypothesis that GLUT3 is present in uterine tissues from d 16 to 50 of gestation. Further research and more detailed measurements using fluorescence intensity in utero-placental tissues across day and treatments is needed to determine impacts of maternal nutrition status and day of early gestation on localization as well as concentration of the GLUT3 transporter within utero-placental tissues.
The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of maternal nutrient restriction and day of gestation on mRNA expression of syncytin-Rum1, bovine endogenous retrovirus K1 (BERV-K1), interferon-tau (INF-τ), and pregnancy specific protein B (PSP-B). At breeding (0 d), crossbred heifers (n = 49; ~15 mo of age; initial BW = 324. 9 kg) were assigned to dietary treatments, control (fed to gain 0. 45 kg/d BW gain) or restricted (60% of control). Heifers were ovariohysterectomized at d 16, 34, or 50 resulting in a 2 × 3 factorial. Our results indicate that both BERV-K1 and syncytin-Rum1 may interact with PSP-B during the establishment of the fetomaternal interface and syncytial plaques.

We hypothesized that maternal nutrition and day of gestation would impact mRNA expression of nutrient transporters GLUT1, CAT-1, CAT-2, and CAT-3 in beef heifers. Crossbred Angus heifers (n = 49) were synchronized, bred via AI, assigned to nutritional treatment (CON = 100% of requirements for 0. 45 kg/d gain and RES = 60% of CON) and ovariohysterectomized on d 16, 34, or 50 of gestation (n = 6 to 9/d); non-pregnant (NP) controls were not bred and ovariohysterectomized on d 16 of the synchronized estrous cycle (n = 6). The resulting arrangement of treatments was a 2 × 3 factorial + 1. Our results partially support our hypothesis and indicate that day was a more influential factor for mRNA expression of utero-placental glucose and cationic amino acid transporters than maternal nutritional status in heifers during early pregnancy.

Oregon
Impacts of stocking density on development and puberty attainment of replacement beef heifers. We hypothesized that elevated stocking density impairs welfare and reproductive development in beef heifers. We compared growth, physical activity, stress-related and physiological responses, and puberty attainment in heifers reared on high (dry lots) or low (pastures) stocking densities from weaning until the start of their first breeding season. Rearing replacement beef heifers in dry lots with high stocking density negatively impacted stress-related and physiological responses, and delayed puberty attainment compared with rearing heifers in pastures with low stocking density. Moreover, these outcomes were independent of heifer nutritional status and growth rate, but were associated with reduced physical activity and increased chronic stress caused by high stocking density. Therefore, stocking density should be considered in heifer development programs to optimize reproductive and overall efficiency of cow-calf operations.

Effects of vaccination against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus on reproductive performance of Bos indicus beef cows. We hypothesized that administration of a FMD vaccine during early pregnancy stimulates an acute-phase protein reaction and results in increased pregnancy loss in vaccinated cattle. Our objectives were to compare reproductive performance of Bos indicus cows vaccinated against FMD virus before timed-AI or during early pregnancy (Exp. 1), as well as rectal temperature and plasma concentrations of the acute-phase protein haptoglobin in cattle vaccinated or not against the FMD virus (Exp. 2). We concluded that vaccinating B. indicus beef cows against FMD virus resulted in a 4-fold increase in pregnancy loss when the vaccine was administered 30 d after timed-AI compared with 31 d before timed-AI. These outcomes can be associated with inflammatory and acute-phase reactions elicited by the FMD vaccine, which are known to impair pregnancy maintenance in cattle.
Expression of estrus modifies the gene expression profile in reproductive tissues on d 19 of gestation in beef cows. We hypothesized that expression of estrus is associated with a complete maturation and function of the preovulatory mechanisms. Our objectives were to test the effects of behavioral expression of estrus before AI on gene expression of target transcripts in the endometrium, CL, and conceptus on Day 19 of gestation. We concluded that estrus expression at the time of AI favorably altered the gene expression profile in reproductive tissues during the preimplantation phase toward a more receptive state to the elongating conceptus. These effects seem to be more evident in the endometrium during the time of dynamic remodeling for embryo implantation.

South Dakota
Influence of preovulatory estradiol on conceptus survival and uterine glucose transporter expression. Glucose is an essential component of uterine secretions and is delivered into the uterine luminal fluid (ULF) by glucose transporters. We have previously reported increased concentrations of glucose in the ULF of cows that exhibited estrus. Our objective was to determine effects of preovulatory estradiol on abundance of glucose transporters in uterine endometrium. Glucose transporter abundance in the endometrium of beef cows was influenced by preovulatory estradiol and presence of a conceptus. This may serve as a possible mechanism to regulate glucose concentrations into the uterine lumen where it can be utilized by the developing conceptus.
Differences in abundance of GnRH-I and GnRH-II among bovine antral follicles. Estradiol plays a critical role in fertility among cattle, specifically it has been reported that preovulatory estradiol regulates uterine pH, sperm transport, and uterine secretions that impact embryo development and survival. Both GnRH and GnRH receptors have been reported in granulosa cells of cattle, and among other species GnRH has been reported to modulate follicular steroidogenesis. Thus, the objective of the current study was to determine changes in the relative abundance of GnRH-I and GnRH-II mRNA within granulosa cells of bovine follicles. Thus, decreased abundance of GnRH-I and GnRH-II mRNA may play a role in increased production of estradiol. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

US-MARC-Nebraska
Mechanisms of improved reproductive function in heifers with increased numbers of antral follicles. Heifers with increased numbers of antral follicles detectable by ultrasonography conceive earlier in their first breeding season. To investigate whether this is due to improved uterine function or improved oocyte quality, a four year study was initiated. Angus heifers (120/yr) were submitted for ultrasonographic examination to determine antral follicle number at 325 d of age and 355 d of age. Each year, the 10 pubertal heifers with the greatest average number of antral follicles and the 10 heifers with the lowest average number of antral follicles were synchronized with two i.m. shots of Lutalyse administered 11 d apart, and reproductive tracts were harvested on d 6 or d 16 after behavioral estrus. Uterine weights were greater for heifers with increased numbers of antral follicles compared with heifers with diminished numbers of antral follicles (P < 0. 01). Uterine protein concentrations were greater in heifers with greater numbers of antral follicles (P < 0. 01). Oocytes were aspirated from follicles (< 7 mm) and used for in vitro embryo production. No difference was detected in the percentage of oocytes that cleaved; however, a greater (P < 0. 01) percentage of oocytes from High AFC heifers developed to the blastocyst stage compared with oocytes from Low AFC heifers.
Ovarian phenotype and function differ in Bos indicus cows and may contribute to differences in reproductive capacity. Past research has demonstrated that antral follicle numbers are increased in Bos indicus cattle, but there is no corresponding increase in fertility. In fact, uterine protein concentrations are lower in Bos indicus cattle. In addition, several studies have indicated no difference in primordial follicle numbers in Bos indicus ovaries; however, Bos indicus ovaries are larger. Bos taurus heifers with diminished numbers of primordial follicles have smaller ovaries with fewer primordial follicles per gram of ovarian tissue, and decreased uterine protein concentrations. Therefore, we hypothesized that Bos indicus cows would have fewer primordial follicles per gram of ovarian tissue. From our results, differences exist in the ovarian function in Bos indicus that may contribute to differences in fertility and reproductive longevity.

Genetic marker effects and type of inheritance are estimated with poor precision when minor marker allele frequencies are low. An Angus population was subjected to marker assisted selection for multiple years to equalize CAPN1 haplotypes, CAST, and GHR genetic marker frequencies. The objective was to estimate the pleiotropic effects of these carcass quality oriented markers for BW, reproduction, and first calf performance traits in replacement beef females (n = 174) which were managed under 2 post-weaning development protocols. This study characterizes an important genetic effect for maternal heterosis advantages in expected maintenance requirements and highlights the importance of understanding genetic marker pleiotropy when incorporating genetic markers into selection decisions.

Virginia
Maturation of bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes with follicle fluid varying in estradiol content affects cumulus cell expansion without affecting subsequent embryo development in vitro. The objective of this work was to determine how characteristics of bovine follicle fluid (FF; especially estradiol content) affect cumulus cell expansion and oocyte competence. Results of our studies indicate that although FF improves cumulus cell expansion during maturation in vitro, it does not result in greater rates of cleavage or blastocyst development regardless of estradiol content.

Effects of administration of ovulation induction factor on CL volume, concentration of progesterone (P4), and conceptus development. The objective of this study was to determine if systemic administration of ovulation induction factor (OIF), also known as nerve growth factor beta (NGF), to cows at the time of artificial insemination would affect CL volume, concentration of P4, and conceptus development. A total of 60 suckled beef cows were synchronized using a 7 d CO-Synch + CIDR protocol and were randomly assigned to one of two treatments at the time of insemination: i.m. injection of 5 mL of saline (CON; n = 30); or intramuscular injection of 5 mL (250 μg) of purified NGF (NGF; n =30). Treatment of cows with NGF at timed AI did not affect CL volume, but increased concentration of P4.

Objective 2. To increase the efficiency and predictability of sustainable reproductive management programs for cattle.

Florida
Presynchronization with PGF2 7-d before initiation of the 7-d CO-Synch+CIDR protocol alters estrus expression, but fails to enhance pregnancy rates to TAI.

Use of a high concentrate, subcutaneous dose of PGF2 compared with a conventional 25 mg dose of PGF2 does not alter estrus response or pregnancy rates in replacement beef heifers exposed to the 7-d CIDR + CO-Synch protocol.

Use of estrus synchronization and timed AI in Bos indicus beef heifers increased the percentage of heifers pregnant early in the breeding season compared with heifers not exposed to estrus synchronization and TAI.
Administration of bST before artificial insemination increased IGF1 at fixed-time AI (TAI), but failed to increase fetal growth and decreased pregnancy rates to TAI.

Bos taurus recipients exposed to an energy and protein restriction during early gestation experienced greater embryonic loss compared with Bos indicus influenced cows.

Bos taurus embryos had greater embryonic loss when the dam underwent feed restriction during early gestation.
Iowa

GnRH administration may not be needed at the initiation of the 5-d CO-Synch + CIDR ovulation synchronization program to achieve acceptable timed-artificial insemination pregnancy rates. A greater proportion of Angus heifers that were desirable for both average daily gain (above average) and residual feed intake (below average) during their yearling feed efficiency test remained in the herd at 3 and 4 yr of age compared with all other contemporaries.

Quantification of varying trace mineral concentrations in spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and whole semen samples indicate that semen may be a viable biomarker for trace mineral status.

Kansas
Using an activity monitoring system (AMS) equipped with an accelerometer, 2 experiments were conducted to test the hypotheses that: (1) enhancing P4 before inducing luteolysis or (2) exposing cows to estradiol cypionate (ECP) or testosterone propionate (TP) after luteolysis would increase occurrence and intensity of estrus. Only ECP was successful in inducing more expression and intensity of estrus, but proportions of cows detected in estrus barely exceeded 80%. Given the large proportion of cows equipped with AMS collars ovulating in the absence of estrus, further research is warranted to determine if more pregnancies can be achieved by inseminating those cows not detected in estrus at an appropriate time after PGF2α-induced luteolysis.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone increased pregnancy risk in suckled beef cows not detected in estrus and subjected to a split-time artificial insemination program. We hypothesized that GnRH would increase pregnancy risk in a split-time AI program for cows in which estrus was not detected. A total of 1,236 suckled beef cows at 12 locations in 3 states (CO, KS, and ND) were enrolled. Before applying the fixed-time AI program, BCS was assessed. Cows were treated on d –7 with a P4 insert concurrent with 100 μg GnRH and on d 0 with 25 mg PGF2α plus removal of the insert. Cows had greater PR when they had been detected in estrus before AI, and PR was improved by administration of GnRH at 65 h after insert removal in cows that were not detected in estrus and inseminated at 84 h. The split-time AI program serves as a compromise between conventional AI after detection of estrus and a standard one-fixed time AI program. Depending on the cost of GnRH (range of $2.22 to $3.10 per dose) and 60% of cows in estrus by 65 h, the economic trade-off of using estrus-detection patches in a split-time AI program is favorable and saved $0.33 to $0.86 per cow, but does not account for the extra time and cow-calf handling invested to carry-out the second AI at 84 h. Furthermore, cost of semen and sire selection for cows detected in estrus having resulting greater pregnancy risk compared with those not detected in estrus having lesser pregnancy risk, could provide other favorable options and economic advantages for employing a split-time AI program.

Mississippi
Characteristics of ovulatory and non-ovulatory dominant follicles among beef cows exhibiting two and three follicular waves. During an estrus synchronization and timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol in cattle, ovulation of the dominant follicle of any wave is possible depending on what day of the estrous cycle the protocol is initiated. The first follicular wave emerges around the time of ovulation when the circulating concentration of P4 is low but increasing, whereas the second follicular wave emerges during diestrus when the circulating concentration of P4 is greatest. The primary objective of this study was to characterize intra-follicular concentrations of E2 and P4 in dominant follicles of each wave in females exhibiting 2 or 3 waves of follicular development. Ovulatory follicles contained greater concentrations of E2 than non-ovulatory follicles after 4 d of dominance; however, when comparing non-ovulatory follicles from females exhibiting 2 or 3 waves and comparing ovulatory follicles from females exhibiting 2 or 3 waves, concentrations of steroid hormones were similar. In addition, concentrations of steroid hormones in follicular fluid did not differ between females classified as low antral follicle count or moderate antral follicle count. Blood perfusion of the dominant follicle tended to be greater in dominant follicles from the second nonovulatory wave in females exhibiting 3 waves. Diameters of dominant follicles of the second non-ovulatory wave in females exhibiting 3 waves were smallest in diameter and no differences in diameter were observed among dominant follicles from other waves.
The dominant follicle of the first follicular wave (FFW) develops when the concentration of P4 is increasing whereas the dominant follicle of the second follicular wave (SFW) develops under maximal concentrations of P4. We hypothesized that females synchronized to ovulate the dominant follicle of the SFW at AI would have improved fertility characteristics compared with females synchronized to ovulate the dominant follicle of the FFW. The objectives of this experiment were to determine the effects of follicular wave (first or second) on diameter of the dominant follicle, concentrations of P4 and estradiol and the hepatic enzymes that inactivate them, thickness of the endometrium, as well as pregnancy rates to AI. Cows inseminated to the FFW had an increased diameter of the dominant follicle compared with cows inseminated to the SFW. Treatment did not impact the thickness of the endometrium. Concentrations of P4 were greater and concentrations of estradiol tended to be lesser in females assigned to the SFW, although of the liver enzymes measured, only concentrations of CYP1A differed between treatments. When considering all females and only those that were effectively presynchronized, pregnancy rates were similar between treatments. When evaluating females that ovulated to the assigned follicular wave, heifers in the SFW had greater pregnancy rates than heifers in the FFW, whereas pregnancy rates in cows did not differ among treatments, and this interaction warrants further evaluation.

Missouri
This experiment was designed to evaluate split-time artificial insemination (STAI) in beef heifers following administration of the 14-d controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-prostaglandin F2α (PG) protocol and to compare pregnancy rates among non-estrous heifers based on administration of GnRH at AI. Estrus was synchronized for 1,138 heifers across 6 locations. When split-time AI was used in conjunction with the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol in heifers, comparable pregnancy rates were achieved without administering GnRH.

This experiment was designed to compare pregnancy rates in postpartum beef cows following split-time (STAI) or fixed-time (FTAI) artificial insemination. Estrus was synchronized for 671 cows at 7 locations following administration of the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR protocol (100 μg GnRH + CIDR insert [1. 38 g P4] on d 0; 25 mg prostaglandin F2α [PG] at CIDR removal on d 7). In summary, following administration of the 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR protocol, total estrous response increased and pregnancy rates resulting from AI tended to be greater among cows assigned to STAI versus FTAI treatments.

This experiment was designed to compare the 14-d CIDR-PG (14-d) and 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR (7-d) protocols on the basis of estrous response, pregnancy rates resulting from fixed-time AI (FTAI), and final pregnancy rates at the end of the breeding season in primiparous 2-yr-old beef cows. Our results indicated that the 14-d CIDR-PG and 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR protocols may be used to effectively synchronize estrus before FTAI in primiparous 2-yr-old beef cows.

Another experiment was designed to test the hypothesis that estrous response and pregnancy rate following synchronization of estrus with the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol in primiparous 2-yr-old beef cows would be improved using split-time AI (STAI) compared with fixed-time AI (FTAI). Estrus was synchronized for 523 primiparous, postpartum beef cows at 5 locations. Estrus expression was increased when STAI was used following synchronization of estrus with the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol in primiparous 2-yr-old beef cows; however, this strategy did not result in significant improvements in AI pregnancy rates compared with FTAI.
Although the 14-d CIDR-PGF2 (PG) protocol can be effectively used in mature cows with either a 16- or 19-d interval from CIDR removal to PG, producers may be reluctant to adopt this protocol because: (1) the duration of the treatment schedule; and (2) low estrus-response rates by the time of FTAI at 72 h after PG. To address these considerations, Thomas et al. (2016a) evaluated a modified presynchronization approach in which PG was administered at CIDR insertion. Inducing luteolysis among responsive cows in this manner facilitated a shortened duration of progestin treatment from 14 to 9 d while achieving similar size dominant follicles at CIDR removal. To account for cows whose CL may not have responded to the PG administered at CIDR insertion (e. g., cows who had ovulated < 5 d before CIDR insertion), PG is administered again to all cows at CIDR removal in the 9-d CIDR-PG protocol. As in the standard 14-d CIDR-PG protocol, PG is administered 16 d after CIDR removal. Preliminary results (Thomas et al., 2016a) indicated a tendency for increased estrus-response rate after CIDR removal following the 9-d CIDR-PG treatment schedule compared with the 14-d CIDR-PG. In addition, estrous response after PG was significantly greater among 9-d CIDR-PG treated cows, and synchrony of estrus expression was noteworthy. Split-time AI was conducted, with cows having expressed estrus receiving timed AI at 72 h after PG, and cows not expressing estrus by 72 h receiving timed AI 24 h later at 96 h. In this pilot study, greater pregnancy rates were observed for 9-d CIDR-PG treated cows (77%; 33/43) compared with 14-d CIDR-PG treated cows (60%; 25/42). A subsequent field trial with larger numbers evaluated the 9-d CIDR-PG versus 14-d CIDR-PG protocols on the basis of pregnancy rate to FTAI performed at 72 h after PG. Greater pregnancy rates were again obtained by cows treated with the 9-d CIDR-PG protocol (63%; 100/158) compared with cows treated with the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol (53%; 86/163).

Two long-term, CIDR-based estrus-synchronization protocols were evaluated among Bos indicus-influenced and Bos taurus beef heifers. Treatments were evaluated on the basis of estrous response and pregnancy rate resulting from fixed-time artificial insemination, and these outcomes were analyzed retrospectively relative to reproductive tract score at treatment initiation. The long-term CIDR-based protocols provide a simple, effective method of estrus synchronization in Bos indicus-influenced and Bos taurus beef heifers. Moreover, these results highlight the importance of management practices that result in high rates of estrous cyclicity before protocol initiation, particularly among later maturing breeds and biological types.

North Dakota
Effects of breeding system of origin (natural service or artificial insemination) on pregnancy rates, distribution of calving, and calf weaning weights of commercial beef cow herds in North Dakota. Objectives of this study were to compare pregnancy rates, calving distribution, and calf weaning weights of commercial beef cows exposed to two different breeding systems. Producers recruited (n = 10) had never implemented estrus synchronization and AI into their reproductive management plan. Use of timed AI in commercial beef herds increased the number of calves born earlier in the calving season and increased the weaning weights of calves.

Effects of pre-breeding administration of injectable trace mineral supplements on subsequent reproductive performance in beef herds. Commercial beef cows (n = 1,311) originating from 4 herds in North Dakota were stratified within herd by days postpartum, then randomly assigned to receive either of 2 treatments: 1) cows received no additional treatments before bull turnout (CON; n = 638); or 2) cows were administered an injectable trace mineral supplementation (60, 10, and 15 mg/mL of zinc, manganese and copper as disodium EDTA chelates, and 5 mg/mL selenium as sodium selenite) subcutaneously on d 30 relative to bull turnout (TM; n = 673). When evaluating the distribution of calves born in the calving season by 21-d increments, the proportion of calves born in the first 21, 22 to 42, or more than 42 d of the calving season were similar (P = 0.40) between treatments.

Evaluating results of pre-breeding reproductive examinations in yearling and mature beef bulls via the BullTest data reporting system. Over a 2-yr period data were collected to summarize incidence and reasons for failure of reproductive soundness examinations in yearling and mature beef bulls. Upon completion of examinations, participating veterinarians completed the BullTest card by indicating the number of yearling and mature bulls evaluated and the number of bulls in each age class that failed the examination. Examination failures were further classified by indicating number of bulls failing for each of the following reasons: semen motility, semen morphology, excess white blood cells present in ejaculate, penile injury/defects, wart proliferation, feet and leg conformation, scrotal circumference, and “other”. In addition, practitioners indicated the type of examination conducted; simple semen exam or full breeding soundness exam (BSE), whether the test was for a breeding herd or production sale, and whether the test was the initial evaluation of bulls or a retest. The BullTest system provided an excellent platform to summarize results of pre-breeding reproductive evaluations in beef bulls.

Oregon
Effects of post-AI supplementation with Ca salts of soybean oil (CSSO) on pregnancy establishment parameters in Bos indicus beef cows. We hypothesized that CSSO supplementation during early gestation favors maternal and embryonic responses required for pregnancy establishment, including PGE2 synthesis and the IFNt-signaling cascade. Our objectives were to investigate the effects of CSSO Supplementation during early gestation on hormonal, uterine, and conceptus parameters associated with pregnancy establishment in B. indicus beef cows. We concluded that post-AI CSSO supplementation to beef cows increased plasma concentration of linoleic acid and enhanced pregnancy establishment variables, which includes CL development and plasma P4 concentrations, conceptus growth and mRNA expression of interferon-tau, as well as blood mRNA expression of interferon-stimulated genes.

Impacts of meloxicam before temporary calf weaning on physiological and reproductive responses of Bos indicus beef cows. We hypothesized that meloxicam administration to beef cows mitigates inflammatory reactions induced by temporary calf weaning (TCW) and further improves pregnancy rates to timed AI.

Our objectives were to evaluate temperament, physiological, and reproductive variables in B. indicus beef cows assigned to an estrus synchronization + timed-AI protocol including eCG administration, TCW, or TCW + meloxicam administration. We concluded that TCW during estrus synchronization did not impact temperament or serum haptoglobin concentrations in B. indicus beef cows, but increased serum cortisol concentrations compared with cows not assigned to TCW, although such outcome was not sufficient to impact pregnancy rates to timed-AI. Moreover, administration of meloxicam did not alleviate the TCW-induced increase in serum cortisol concentrations, and failed to benefit pregnancy rates to timed AI in B. indicus beef cows.
Creep-feeding to stimulate metabolic imprinting in nursing beef heifers: Impacts on heifer growth, reproductive, and physiological parameters. We hypothesized that management to stimulate metabolic imprinting, such as creep-feeding, may accelerate puberty in heifers by enhancing nutrient utilization and lipogenesis. Our objectives were to compare growth, reproductive, and physiological responses of beef heifers with or without access to a creep-feeder while nursing their dams, as a manner to stimulate metabolic imprinting. We concluded that supplementing nursing heifers via creep-feeding for 50 d altered physiological and biochemical variables suggestive of a metabolic imprinting effect, but did not hasten their puberty attainment.
Effects of protein supplementation frequency on physiological responses associated with reproduction in beef cows. We hypothesized that beef cows supplemented with protein infrequently would have reduced uterine pH and circulating P4 concentrations following a supplementation event. Our objectives were to determine the effects of protein supplementation frequency on physiological responses and hepatic expression of genes associated with metabolism and reproductive function of beef cows. We concluded that decreasing frequency of protein supplementation did not reduce uterine flushing pH or plasma P4 concentrations, which are known to impact reproduction in beef cows.

South Dakota
The role of preovulatory estradiol in maternal recognition of pregnancy and embryonic survival has not been well established among beef cows. Our objective was to determine the effects of preovulatory estradiol on regulating the uterine environment from fertilization to maternal recognition of pregnancy. Embryo recovery rates and uterine flush protein content did not differ between cows that did or did not exhibit estrus, but uterine flush glucose content was greater in cows that exhibited estrus. There was no difference in uterine flush glucose content between cows that did and did not have an embryo, but uterine flush protein content was greater in cows from which an embryo was recovered.

Wisconsin
Treatment with 12.5 mg of PGF2α 5 d after induction of ovulation temporarily decreased P4 concentrations from 6 to 11 d after timed AI without inducing luteal regression. Decreasing P4 after decreased expression of ISG15 in blood leukocytes 20 d after timed AI, serum PSPB concentrations 25 to 67 d after, and embryo size 46 d after timed AI but did not affect pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in lactating Holstein cows.

Addition of a second PGF2α (dinoprost) treatment during a Resynch protocol tended to increase P/AI to timed AI by increasing the percentage of cows with complete luteal regression at GnRH-2, whereas doubling the dose of PGF2α did not.
Synchronization of ovulation and timed AI for first service increased the percentage of cows inseminated within 7 d after the VWP, and timed AI cows had greater fertility at first service than cows inseminated after estrus at a similar DIM range.

Publications
Peer-reviewed Journals

Abel, J. M., B. E. Bishop, J. M. Thomas, M. R. Ellersieck, S. E. Poock, M. F. Smith, and D. J. Patterson. 2016. Comparing strategies to synchronize estrus and ovulation before fixed-time artificial insemination in primiparous two-year-old beef cows. Theriogenology. (Submitted).

Al Naib, A., H. L. Tucker, G. Xie, D. H. Keisler, F. F. Bartol, R. P. Rhoads, R. M. Akers and M. L. Rhoads. 2016. Prepubertal tamoxifen treatment affects development of heifer reproductive tissues and related signaling pathways. J. Dairy Sci. 99:5780-5792.

Amundson, O. L. E. L. Larimore, A. K. McNeel, C. C. Chase, Jr., R. A. Cushman, H. C. Freetly, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Uterine environment and pregnancy rate of heifers fed different levels of protein. Anim. Reprod. Sci. (R1 Submitted).

Amundson, O. L. T. G. Fountain, E. L. Larimore, B. N. Richardson, A. K. McNeel, E. C. Wright, D. H. Keisler, R. A. Cushman, G. A. Perry, H. C. Freetly. 2015. Post-weaning nutritional programming of ovarian development in beef heifers. J. Anim. Sci. 93:5232-5239.

Anderson, J. L., K. F. Kalscheur, J. A. Clapper, G. A. Perry, D. H. Keisler, A. D. Garcia, and D. J. Schingoethe. 2015. Feeding fat from distillers dried grains with solubles to dairy heifers: metabolic profile. J. Dairy Sci. 98:5709-5719.

Bishop, B. E., J. M. Thomas, J. M. Abel, S. E. Poock, M. R. Ellersieck, M. F. Smith, and D. J. Patterson. 2016. Split-time artificial insemination in beef cattle: I. Using estrous response to determine optimal time(s) at which to administer GnRH in beef heifers and postpartum cows. Theriogenology 86: 1102-1110.

Bishop, B. E., J. M. Thomas, J. M. Abel, S. E. Poock, M. R. Ellersieck, M. F. Smith, and D. J. Patterson. 2016. Split-time artificial insemination in beef cattle. II. Comparing pregnancy rates among non-estrous heifers based on administration of GnRH at AI. Theriogenology. In press.

Bolzenius, J. K., R. A. Cushman, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Expression of Na+/H+ exchanger isoforms 1, 2, 3, and 4 in bovine endometrium and the influence of uterine pH at fixed-timed AI of pregnancy success. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 171:98-107.

Brown, B. M., J. W. Stallings, J. S. Clay and M. L. Rhoads. 2015. Periconceptional heat stress of Holstein dams is associated with differences in daughter milk production and composition during multiple lactations. PLOS ONE. 10: e0133574.

Brown, B. M., J. W. Stallings, J. S. Clay and M. L. Rhoads. 2016. Periconceptional heat stress of Holstein dams is associated with differences in daughter milk production during their first lactation. PLOS ONE. 11:e0148234.

Cappellozza, B. I., R. F. Cooke, M. M. Reis, R. S. Marques, T. A. Guarnieri Filho, G. A. Perry, D. B. Jump, K. A. Lytle, and D. W. Bohnert. 2015. Effects of protein Supplementation frequency on physiological responses associated with reproduction in beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 93:386-394.

Cerny, K. L., L. Anderson, W. R. Burris, M. Rhoads, J. C. Matthews and P. J. Bridges. 2016. Form of Supplemental selenium fed to cycling cows affects systemic concentrations of progesterone but not those of estradiol. Theriogenology 85:800-806.

Cipriano, R. S. M. C. V. Miguel, M. A. Maioli, L. M. Pavanello, D. Giraldo-Arana, R. F. Cooke, M. L. Day, and G. P. Nogueira. 2015. Follicular profile, LH and leptin concentrations in prepubertal Nellore heifers treated with fat acids or high energy. Braz. J. Vet. Res. (In press).

Cipriano, R. S., R. F. Cooke, A. D. Rodrigues, L. G. T. Silva, D. W. Bohnert, R. S. Marques, J. L. M. Vasconcelos, A. V. Pires, and R. L. A. Cerri. 2016. Effects of post-AI Supplementation with Ca salts of soybean oil on pregnancy establishment parameters in Bos indicus beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. (In review).

Cline, G. F., A. M. Muth-Spurlock, B. E. Voelz, C. O. Lemley, and J. E. Larson. 2016. Evaluating blood perfusion of the corpus luteum in beef cows during fescue toxicosis. J. Anim. Sci. 94:90-95.

Cooke, R. F., R. F. G. Peres, R. S. Cipriano, T. A. Guarnieri Filho, R. S. Marques, M. C. Rodrigues, R. S. Carvalho, D. W. Bohnert, and J. L. M. Vasconcelos. 2016. Impacts of meloxicam before temporary calf weaning on physiological and reproductive responses of Bos indicus beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 94:406-411.

Crouse, M. S., J. S. Caton, K. J. McLean, P. P. Borowicz, L. P . Reynolds, C. R. Dahlen, B. W. Neville, and A. K. Ward. 2016. Rapid Communication: Isolation of glucose transporters GLUT3 and GLUT14 in bovine utero-placental tissues from d 16 to 50 of gestation. doi: 10. 2527/jas. 2016-0808; Date posted: August 12, 2016

da Silva, A. G., D. C. Adams, and R. N. Funston. 2016. Fall-breeding beef females failing to conceive during spring breeding. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:243-247.

Daetz, R., F. Cunha, J. H. Bittar, C. A. Risco, F. Magalhaes, Y. Maeda, J. E. P. Santos, K. C. Jeong, R. F. Cooke, and K. N. Galvão. 2016. Safety of chitosan microparticles administration and efficacy in preventing metritis in lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. 10. 3168/jds. 2016-11400.

Dahlen, Carl R. and Charles L. Stoltenow. 2015. The PregCard study; assessing the impact of routine management strategies on reproductive performance of beef herds in the upper Great Plains. Bov. Pract. 49:152-155.

Davoodi, S., R. F. Cooke, A. C. C. Fernandes, B. I. Cappellozza, J. L. M. Vasconcelos, and R. L. A. Cerri. 2015. Expression of estrus modifies the gene expression profile in reproductive tissues on day 19 of gestation in beef cows. Theriogenology 85:645-655.

Deaver, S. E., A. M. Felix and M. L. Rhoads. 2015. Reproductive performance of lactating dairy cattle after intrauterine administration of a prostaglandin F2α receptor antagonist four days after insemination. Theriogenology 83:560-566.

Dohlman, T. M., D. M. Madson, P. E. Phillips, C. A. Clark, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of label-dose permethrin administration in yearling beef cattle: II. Bull reproductive function and testicular histopathology. Theriogenology 85:1534-1539.

Dohlman, T. M., M. M. Jahnke, J. K. West, P. E. Phillips, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of label-dose permethrin administration in yearling beef cattle: I. Reproductive function and embryo quality of superovulated heifers. Theriogenology 85:1528-1533.

Ferreira, L. C. L., R. F. Cooke, R. S. Marques, H. J. Fernandes, C. E. Fernandes, R. Stelato, G. L. Franco, and R. A. A. Lemos. 2016. Effects of vaccination against foot-and-mouth disease virus on reproductive performance of Bos indicus beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 94:401-405.

Fricke, P. M., P. D. Carvalho, M. C. Lucy, F. Curran, M. M. Herlihy, S. M. Waters, J. A. Larkin, M. A. Crowe, and S. T. Butler. 2016. Effect of manipulating progesterone before timed artificial insemination on reproductive and endocrine parameters in seasonal‐calving pasture‐based Holstein‐Friesian cows. J. Dairy Sci. 99:6780‐6792.

Funston, R. N., E. E. Grings, A. J. Roberts, and B. T. Tibbitts. 2016. Choosing a calving date. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:145-153.

Gaievski, F. R., G. C. Lamb, R. R. Weiss, M. A. F. Bertol, M. S. Sequi, A. C. M. R. Abreu, L. E. Kozicki. 2015. Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) and equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) improve the pregnancy rate on protocols for timed-artificial insemination in beef cattle. Vet. E. Zootech. 22:471-480.

Geppert, T. C. A. M. Meyer, G. A. Perry, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of excess dietary metabolizable protein from corn gluten meal or soybean meal on ovarian function and circulating amino acid concentrations of beef cows consuming low quality forage. Animal (In Press)

Geppert, T. C. A. M. Meyer, G. A. Perry, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of supplementing excess amounts of metabolizable protein from a moderately abundant rumen undegradable source on ovarian function and circulating amino acid concentrations of beef cows consuming low quality forage. Animal (In Press)

Geppert, T. C., A. M. Meyer, G. A. Perry, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of excess metabolizable protein on ovarian function and circulating amino acids of beef cows: 1. Excessive Supply from corn gluten meal or soybean meal. Animal (Accepted).

Grazul-Bilska, A., C. S. Bass, S. L Kaminski, G. A. Perry, and D. A Redmer. 2015. Progesterone secretion by ovine granulosa cells: effects of nitric oxide and plane of nutrition. Can. J. Phys. Pharm. 93:973-978.

Gunn, P. 2016. Optimización de la nutrición de ganado de carne de concepción hasta consumo. Ceiba. 54:14-22.

Gunn, P. J., R. P. Lemenager, K. C. Culp, and G. A. Bridges. 2016. Efficacy of the 5 day CO-Synch estrous synchronization protocol with or without the inclusion of a CIDR in beef cows. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:82-89.

Hill, S. L., D. M. Grieger, K. C. Olson, J. R. Jaeger, C. R. Dahlen, G. A. Bridges, F. Dantas, J. E. Larson, A. M. Muth-Spurlock, J. K. Ahola, M. C. Fischer, G. A. Perry, E. L. Larimore, T. L. Steckler, W. D. Whittier, J. F. Currin, and J. S. Stevenson. 2016. Using estrus-detection patches to optimally time insemination improved pregnancy risk in suckled beef cows enrolled in a fixed-time artificial insemination program. J. Anim. Sci. 94:doi: 10. 2527/jas. 2016-0469; Published: June 14, 2016.

Hill, S. L., D. M. Grieger, K. C. Olson, J. R. Jaeger, C. R. Dahlen, M. R. Crosswhite, N. Negrin Pereira, S. R. Underdahl, B. W. Neville, J. Ahola, M. C. Fischer, G. E. Seidel, and J. S. Stevenson. 2016. GnRH increased pregnancy risk in suckled beef cows not detected in estrus and subjected to a split-time artificial insemination program. J. Anim. Sci. 94:doi:10. 2527/jas. 2016-0582, Published: August 11, 2016.

Kramer, R. W., D. R. Smith, G. R. Rupp, D. D. Griffin, and R. N. Funston. 2016. Estimation of calving date in beef cattle with real time ultrasound. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:322-327.

Kruse, S. G., G. A. Bridges, B. J. Funnell, S. L. Bird, S. L. Lake, R. P. Arias, O. L. Amundson, E. L. Larimore, D. H. Keisler, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Influence of post-insemination nutrition on embryonic development in beef heifers. Theriogenology (R1 Submitted)

Lamb, G. C., V. R. G. Mercadante, D. D. Henry, P. L. P. Fontes, C. R. Dahlen, J. E. Larson, and N. DiLorenzo. 2016. Advantages of current and future reproductive technologies for beef cattle production. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:162-171.

Larimore, E. L., O. L. Swanson, G. A. Bridges, A. K. McNeel, R. A. Cushman, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Changes in ovarian function associated with circulating concentrations of estradiol before a GnRH-induced ovulation in beef cows. Domest. Anim. Endo. (In press).

Leiva, T. R. F. Cooke, A. P. Brandão, U. Pardelli, R. O. Rodrigues, F. N. Corrá, and J. L. M. Vasconcelos. 2016. Effects of concentrate type and chromium propionate Supplementation on insulin sensitivity parameters, milk production, and reproductive outcomes of lactating dairy cows consuming excessive energy. Animal 10. 1017/S1751731116001713

Leiva, T., R. F. Cooke, A. P. Brandão, A. C. Aboin, J. Ranches, and J. L. M. Vasconcelos. 2015. Effects of excessive energy intake and Supplementation with chromium propionate on insulin resistance and reproductive parameters in lactating dairy cows. Livest. Prod. Sci 180:121-128.

Manthey, A. K., J. L. Anderson, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Feeding distillers dried grains in replacement of forage in limit-fed dairy heifer rations: Effects on growth performance, rumen fermentation, and total tract digestibility of nutrients. J. Dairy Sci. 99:7206–7215.

Marques, R. S., R. F. Cooke, M. C. Rodrigues, B. I. Cappellozza, C. K. Larson, P. Moriel, and D. W. Bohnert. 2016. Effects of organic or inorganic Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn Supplementation to late-gestating beef cows on productive and physiological responses of the offspring. J. Anim. Sci. 94:1215-1226.

Marques, R. S., R. F. Cooke, M. C. Rodrigues, P. Moriel, and D. W. Bohnert. 2016. Impacts of cow body condition score during gestation on weaning performance of the offspring. Livest. Prod. Sci. 191:174-178.

Mayer, J. J., J. D. Davis, J. L. Purswell, E. J. Koury, N. H. Younan, J. E. Larson, and T. M. Brown-Brandl. 2016. Development and characterization of a continuous tympanic temperature logging (CTTL) probe for bovine animals. Transactions of the ASABE. 59:703-714. (DOI: 10. 13031/trans. 59. 11367).

McCracken, V. L., G. Xie, S. E. Deaver, L. H. Baumgard, R. P. Rhoads and M. L. Rhoads. 2015. Hepatic progesterone-metabolizing enzymes cytochrome progesterone50 2C and 3A in lactating cows during thermoneutral and heat stress conditions. J. Dairy Sci. 98:3152-3157.

McLean, K. J. M. S. Crouse, M. R. Crosswhite, D. N. Black, C. R. Dahlen, P. Borowicz, L. R. Reynolds, A. K. Ward, B. W. Neville, and J. S. Caton. 2016. Rapid Communication: Expression of an endogenous retroviral element, syncytin-Rum1, during early gestation in beef heifers. doi: 10. 2527/jas. 2016-0793; Date posted: August 12, 2016.

Mercadante, V. R. G., L. E. Kozicki, F. M. Ciriaco, D. D. Henry, C. R. Dahlen, M. R. Crosswhite, J. E. Larson, B. E. Voelz, D. J.Patterson, G. A. Perry, R. N. Funston, T. L. Steckler, S. L. Hill, J. S. Stevenson, and G. C. Lamb. 2015. Effects of administration of prostaglandin F2α at initiation of the seven-day COSynch+ controlled internal drug release ovulation synchronization protocol for suckled beef cows and replacement heifers. J. Anim. Sci. 93:5204-5213.

Mercadante, V. R. G., P. L. P. Fontes, F. M. Ciriaco, D. D. Henry, P. Moriel, A. D. Ealy, S. E. Johnson, N. DiLorenzo, and G. C. Lamb. 2016. Effects of recombinant bovine somatotropin administration at breeding on cow, conceptus and subsequent offspring performance of beef cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 94:2128-2138.

Meyer, A. M., and P. J. Gunn. 2015. Making more but using less: The future of the U. S. beef industry with a reduced cow herd and the challenge to feed the United States and world. J. Anim. Sci. 93:4223-4226.

Muth-Spurlcok, A. M., J. A. Dix, M. P. T. Coleson, C. G. Hart, C. O. Lemley, T. M. Schulmeister, G. C. Lamb, and J. E. Larson. 2016. The effect of follicular wave on fertility characteristics in beef cattle. J. Anim. Sci. (Submitted).

Muth-Spurlock, A. M., A. N. Montgomery, T. M. Schulmeister, G. C. Lamb, J. Block, C. O. Lemley, J. M. Feugang, and J. E. Larson.2016. Characteristics of ovulatory and non-ovulatory dominant follicles among beef cows exhibiting two and three follicular waves. Domest. Anim. Endo. (Submitted).

Nielson, H. R., A. F. Summers, and R. N. Funston. 2016. A comparison of two implant protocols; Synovex-Choice/Synovex-Plus vs. Synovex-S/Revalor-S on steer feedlot performance and carcass characteristics. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:63-66.

Nielson, H. R., D. J. Kelly, and R. N. Funston. 2016. Effect of delayed insemination of nonestrus beef heifers in a melengestrol acetate-prostaglandin F2α timed artificial insemination protocol. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:445-447.

Perry, G. A. 2016. Factors affecting puberty in replacement beef heifers. Theriogenology 86:373-378.

Perry, G. A. and R. A. Cushman. 2016. Use of ultrasonography to make management decisions. Prof. Anim. Sci. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:154-161.

Perry, G. A. B. L. Perry, and J. A. Walker. 2016. Post-insemination diet change on reproductive performance in beef heifers. Prof. Anim. Sci. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:316-321.

Perry, G. A., and R. A. Cushman. 2016. Use of ultrasonography to make reproductive management decisions. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:154-161.

Reese, S. T., M. C. Pereira, J. L. Vasconcelos, M. F. Smith, J. A. Green, T. W. Geary, R. F. G Peres, G. A. Perry, and K. G. Pohler. 2016. Markers of pregnancy: how early can we detect pregnancies using pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and microRNAs. Anim. Reprod. Sci. (In press).

Reis, M. M., R. F. Cooke, B. I. Cappellozza, R. S. Marques, T. A. Guarnieri Filho, M. C. Rodrigues, J. S. Bradley, C. J. Mueller, D. H. Keisler, S. E. Johnson, and D. W. Bohnert. 2015. Creep-feeding to stimulate metabolic imprinting in nursing beef heifers: Impacts on heifer growth, reproductive, and physiological parameters. Animal 9:1500-1508.

Richardson, B. N., S. L. Hill, J. S. Stevenson, G. D. Djira, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Expression of estrus before fixed-time AI affects conception rates and factors that impact expression of estrus and the repeatability of expression of estrus in sequential breeding seasons. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 166:133-140.

Roberts, A. J., R. N. Funston, E. E. Grings, and M. K. Petersen. 2016. Beef heifer development systems and lifetime productivity. J. Anim. Sci. 94:2705-2715.

Santos, V. G., P. D. Carvalho, C. Maia, B. Carneiro, A. Valenza, P. M. Crump, and P. M. Fricke. 2016. Adding a second prostaglandin F2α treatment to but not reducing the duration of a PRID‐Synch protocol increases fertility after resynchronization of ovulation in lactating Holstein cows. J. Dairy Sci. 99:3869‐3879.

Sauls, J. A., B. E. Voelz, S. L. Hill, L. G. D. Mendonça, and J. S. Stevenson. 2016. Increasing estrus expression in the lactating dairy cow. J. Dairy Sci. 99 (Accepted).

Schubach, K. M., R. F. Cooke, A. P. Brandão, K. D. Lippolis, L. G. T. da Silva, R. S. Marques, and D. W. Bohnert. 2016. Impacts of stocking density on development and puberty attainment of replacement beef heifers. J. Anim. Sci. (In review).

Schulz, L. L., C. E. Andresen, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Factors affecting timing and intensity of calving season of beef cow-calf producers in the Midwest. Prof. Anim. Sci. 32:430-437.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Ovarian characteristics and timed artificial insemination pregnancy risk after presynchronization with gonadotropin-releasing hormone 7 days before PGF2a in dairy cows. Theriogenology 85:1139-1146.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Synchronization and artificial insemination strategies in dairy herds. Vet. Clin. Food Anim. http://dx. doi. org/10. 1016\j. cvfa. 2016. 01. 007.

Stevenson, J. S., and G. C. Lamb. 2015. Contrasting effects of progesterone on fertility of dairy and beef cows. J. Dairy Sci. 99:5951-5964.

Stevenson, J. S., and S. L. Pulley. 2016. Feedback effects of estradiol and progesterone on ovulation and fertility after gonadotropin-releasing hormone-induced release of luteinizing hormone. J. Dairy Sci. 99:3003-3015.

Stevenson, J. S., S. L. Hill, G. A. Bridges, J. E. Larson, and G. C. Lamb. 2015. Progesterone status, parity, body condition, and days postpartum before estrus or ovulation synchronization in suckled beef cattle influence artificial insemination pregnancy outcomes. J. Anim. Sci. 93:2111-2123.

Swanson, T. J., L. A. Lekatz, M. L. Van Emon, G. A. Perry, C. S. Schauer, K. R. Maddock Carlin, C. J. Hammer, and K. A. Vonnahme. 2016. Supplementation of metabolizable protein during late gestation on ewe organ mass and blood parameters. Domest. Anim. Endo. (In press)

Tait, R. G., Jr., R. A. Cushman, A. K. McNeel, E. Casas, T. P. L. Smith, H. C. Freetly, and G. L. Bennett. 2016. Estimates of epistatic and pleiotropic effects of casein alpha s1 (CSN1S1) and thyroglobulin (TG) genetic markers on beef heifer performance traits enhanced by selection. J. Anim. Sci. 94:920-926.

Thomas, J. M., B. E. Bishop, J. M. Abel, M. R. Ellersieck, M. F. Smith, and D. J. Patterson. 2016. The 9-day CIDR-PG protocol: Incorporation of PGF2α pretreatment into a long-term progestin based estrus synchronization protocol for postpartum beef cows. Theriogenology 85: 1555-1561.

Tucker, H. L., C. L. Parsons, S. Ellis, M. L. Rhoads and R. M. Akers. 2016. Tamoxifen impairs prepubertal mammary development and alters expression of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) and progesterone receptors (PGR). Domest. Anim. Endo. 54:95-105.

Vallet, J. L., J. A. Calderón-Díaz, K. J. Stalder, C. Phillips, R. A. Cushman, J. R. Miles, L. A. Rempel, G. A. Rohrer, C. A. Lents, B. A. Freking and D. J. Nonneman. 2016. Litter-of-origin trait effects on gilt development. J. Anim. Sci. 94:96-105.

Voelz, B., C. E. Payne, L. Hulbert, J. S. Stevenson, M. Brouk, and L. G. D. Mendonça. 2016. Kansas dairy producers’ needs survey: Reproductive management of Kansas dairy farms. J. Extension. (Submitted.)

Voelz, B., L. Rocha, F. Scortegagna, J. S. Stevenson, and L. G. D. Mendonça. 2016. Treatment of lactating dairy cows with gonadotropin-releasing hormone before first insemination during summer heat stress. J. Dairy Sci. 99: Published online: June 8, 2016.

Xie, G., L. C. Cole, L. D. Zhao, M. V. Skrzypek, S. R. Sanders, M. L. Rhoads, L. H. Baumgard and R. P. Rhoads. 2016. Skeletal muscle and hepatic insulin signaling is maintained in heat-stressed lactating Holstein cows. J. Dairy Sci. doi: 10. 3168/jds. 2015-10464.

Xie, M., S. R. McCoski, S. E. Johnson, M. L. Rhoads and A. D. Ealy. 2015. Combinatorial effects of epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor 2, and insulin-like growth factor 1 on trophoblast cell proliferation and embryogenesis in cattle. Reprod. Fertil. Dev. doi: 10. 1071/RD15226.

Extension Reports/Publications

Cline, G. F., A. M. Muth-Spurlock, B. E. Voelz, C. O. Lemley, and J. E. Larson. 2016. Evaluating blood perfusion of the corpus luteum in beef cows during fescue toxicosis. MSU Beef Unit 2016 Research Roundup pp. 7.

Cooke, R. F. 2015. Dystocia in Beef Females. In: Cattle Producer’s Handbook, 456.

Cooke, R. F. 2015. Feeding gestating beef cows trace minerals aids calf. Feedstuffs 87(40):12-14.

Cooke, R. F. 2015. Handling Calving Difficulties. In: Cattle Producer’s Handbook, 447.

Cooke, R. F. 2015. Hot to select cattle for temperament. In: Cattle Producer’s Handbook, 830.

Cooke, R. F. 2015. Impacts of organic and inorganic Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn supplementation to gestating beef cows on offspring performance: potential fetal programming effects? Oregon Beef Producer, December 2015, pp. 28-32.

Cooke, R. F. and J. Sprinkle. 2015. How to select and manage replacement heifers. In: Cattle Producer’s Handbook, 745.

Cooke, R. F. Beef cattle nutrition: opportunities for improving reproductive efficiency. Select Sires Roy Wallace Symposium, Plain City, OH (10/2015).

Cooke, R. F. Impacts of temperament on reproductive performance of Bos indicus and B. taurus beef females. Beef Improvement Federation – NAAB Symposium, Biloxi, MS (06/2015)

Cooke, R. F. Impacts of temperament on reproductive performance of Bos indicus and B. taurus beef females. Joint Annual Meeting, Extension symposium, Salt Lake City, UT (07/2016).

Cooke, R. F. Influences of cattle temperament on performance. Montana Nutrition Conference 2016, Bozeman, MT (04/2016).

Cooke, R. F. Ionophores to optimize reproductive efficiency in beef females. Zoetis Research Group Brazil, Caldas Novas, OG, Brazil (8/2016).

Cooke, R. F. Nutrition of Gestating Beef Cows to Optimize Offspring Productivity. Coos County Cattlemen’s Meeting, Myrtle Point, OR (11/2015).

Cooke, R. F. Nutrition of Gestating Beef Cows to Optimize Offspring Productivity. Oregon 2015 Beef Industry Tour (4 presentations total; 12/2015).

Cooke, R. F. Nutritional and management strategies for developing beef heifers: post-weaning phase. Annual conference novos enfoques na producao e reproducao de bovinos. Uberlandia, MG, Brazil (03/2016).

Cooke, R. F. Nutritional and management strategies for developing beef heifers: pre-weaning phase. Annual conference novos enfoques na producao e reproducao de bovinos. Uberlandia, MG, Brazil (03/2016).

Cooke, R. F. Nutritional and management strategies to optimize productivity of beef cows. Annual conference novos enfoques na producao e reproducao de bovinos. Uberlandia, MG, Brazil (03/2016). Impacts of temperament on reproductive performance of Bos indicus and B. taurus beef females. Lane County Cattlemen’s Meeting, Eugene, OR (02/2015)

Cooke, R. F. Supplementing Trace Minerals to Beef Cows. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Cattlemen’s College, San Diego, CA (01/2016).

Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council, Columbus, OH (November 8-9, 2016)

Dohlman, T. and P. Gunn. Research update: Use of pyrethroids in heifers. Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. April, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Dohlman, T. M., M. Jahnke, J. West, P. E. Phillips, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of Label-Dose Permethrin Administration on Reproductive Function and Embryo Quality on Superovulated Beef Heifers. Animal Industry Report: AS 662, ASL R3050. Available at: http://lib.dr.iastate.edu/ans_air/vol662/iss1/11

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Alta Dairy Showcase. June 17, Forestville, WI.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Barriers to high fertility in high‐producing dairy herds. Zoetis Veterinarian Dairy Owner meeting, April 29, Madison, WI.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Double‐Vision: Management of twinning in dairy cows. Proc. Ontario Association of Bovine Practitioners, April 14, Guelph, ON.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high producing Holstein dairy herds. Zoetis Pennsylvania Dairy meetings, March 7‐10, Somerset, Strasburg, Spring Mills, Bedford, and Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Managing Fertility in Expanding Dairy Herds. MSD Ireland dairy vet meetings, May 24‐26, Armagh, Northern Ireland, Mullingar, Ireland, and Tipperary, Ireland.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Managing reproduction in dairy cattle. Cornell Summer Dairy Institute, July 28, Ithaca, NY.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Managing reproduction in dairy herds. AltaU UK, May 23, Bristol, U.K.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Repro update. Alta Genetics / VAS meeting, March 30, Tulare, CA.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Repro update. CRI Distributor University, May 17, Mt. Horeb, WI.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Repro update. CRI University, May 17, Mt. Horeb, WI.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Repro update. Zoetis UK Westpoint Farm Vets meeting, May 21, Dorking, UK.

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Reproductive programs to maximize fertility in dairy cows. Proc. Large Dairy Herd Management Conference, May 2‐4, Oakbrook, IL.

Fricke, P. M. and J. R. Pursley. 2016. BRED Veterinary Workshop. June 9, Montebello, Quebec, Canada.

Fricke, P. M. and M. C. Wiltbank. 2016. Managing reproduction using the latest technologies. Parnell dairy farmer and vet meetings, July 12‐14, Napa Valley, CA.

Fricke, P. M. M. C. Wiltbank, P. D. Carvalho, and J. O. Giordano. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing dairy herds. Elanco Dairy Meetings, April 25‐27, Decorah, IA, St. Cloud, MN, Red Wing, MN.

Fricke, P. M., A. Ricci, and P. D. Carvalho. 2016. Factors associated with pregnancy associated glycoprotein levels in plasma and milk of Holstein cows during early pregnancy and their impact on the accuracy of pregnancy diagnosis. Proc. Central Canadian Veterinary Conference, February 5, Winnipeg, MB.

Fricke, P. M., M. C. Wiltbank, P. D. Carvalho, and G. O. Giordano. 2015. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing Holstein dairy herds. Proc. Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association Meeting, February 6, Minneapolis, MN.

Fricke, P. M., M. C. Wiltbank, P. D. Carvalho, and J. O. Giordano. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing dairy herds. Proc. Central Canadian Veterinary Conference, February 5, Winnipeg, MB.

Fricke, P. M., M. C. Wiltbank, P. D. Carvalho, and J. O. Giordano. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing dairy herds. Proc. Mid‐Atlantic States Bovine Conference, April 1, Hagarstown, MD.

Fricke, P. M., M. C. Wiltbank, P. D. Carvalho, and J. O. Giordano. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing dairy herds. Proc. Ontario Association of Bovine Practitioners, April 14, Guelph, ON.

Fricke, P. M., P. D. Carvalho, and J. O. Giordano. 2016. Fertility programs to achieve high 21‐d pregnancy rates in high‐producing dairy herds. Proc. Four‐State Dairy Nutrition & Management Conference, June 15‐16, Dubuque, IA. pp. 68‐74.

Funston, R., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Annual Meeting, AABP, Baton Rouge, LA, "Fetal Programming-Implications for Beef Production", Outreach, Workshop, Regional, Invited. (September 18, 2015).

Funston, R., Arthur County Producer Meeting. Arthur, NE. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (2/17/2016).

Funston, R., Boehringer Ingleheim producer meeting. Dallas, TX. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (2/27/2016).

Funston, R., Boehringer Ingleheim producer meeting. Eden, SD. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (2/23/2016).

Funston, R., Boehringer Ingleheim producer meeting. Miller, SD. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (1/21/2016).

Funston, R., Boehringer Ingleheim producer meeting. Zell, SD. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (1/21/2016).

Funston, R., Calving Distribution Conference, UNL, MARC, Clay Center, MARC, "Importance of calving distribution", Extension, Seminar, Regional, Invited. (September 3, 2015).

Funston, R., Chile Producer Tour, UNL Extension, North Platte, "Beef Systems Research", Extension, Other, Regional, Invited. (September 2, 2015).

Funston, R., Great Plains Livestock Consulting meeting, Denison, IA. Heifer Development Systems. (1/13/2016).

Funston, R., Great Plains Livestock Consulting meeting, Emmetsburg, IA. Heifer Development Systems. (1/12/2016).

Funston, R., Husker Harvest Days, Nebraska Gelbvieh Association, Grand Island, NE, "Beef Cattle Depreciation", Outreach, Workshop, Regional, Invited. (September 15, 2015).

Funston, R., Idaho FFA Tour, UNL Extension, North Platte, "Beef Systems Research", Extension, Other, Regional, Invited. (October 24, 2015).

Funston, R., Irish Producer Tour, UNL Extension, Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, "Beef Systems Research", Extension, Other, Regional, Invited. (October 6, 2015).

Funston, R., Kentucky Veterinary Association Annual Convention, KVMA, Louisville, KY, "Increasing Beef Production Efficiency", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited. (September 26, 2015).

Funston, R., Kentucky Veterinary Association Annual Meeting, KVMA, Louisville, KY, "Synchronization Systems", Outreach, Workshop, National, published in proceedings, Invited. (September 26, 2015).

Funston, R., KY Cattlemen’s Convention. Owensborro, KY. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (1/15/2016).

Funston, R., Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association Annual Meeting. Minneapolis, MN. Increasing Production Efficiency Through Reproductive Management. (2/6/2016).

Funston, R., ND Stockgrowers Cattlemen's College, Zoetis, Bismarck, ND, "Heifer Development Systems", Extension, Seminar, Regional, Invited. (September 24, 2015).

Funston, R., NE College of Technical Agriculture Vet Tech CE Meeting, NCTA, Curtis, "Increasing Beef Production Efficiency", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited.

Funston, R., Northwest Oklahoma Beef Conference, OSU, Enid, OK, "Heifer Development Systems", Extension, Seminar, Regional, Invited. (October 29, 2015).

Funston, R., Panama Study Group. North Platte, NE. Beef Systems Research. (3/12/16).

Funston, R., Panhandle Cattlemen's Day, Merck, Merial, Zoetis, Boehringer, Gordon, "Beef Cattle Depreciation", Outreach, Workshop, Regional, Invited. (October 26, 2015).

Funston, R., Purina Producer Meeting, Purina, Holyoke, CO, "Increasing Beef Production Efficiency", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited. (September 29, 2015).

Funston, R., Sandhills NE Cattlemen Affiliate Field Day, Sandhills Affiliate, Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, "Beef Cattle Depreciation", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited. (October 3, 2015).

Funston, R., Steele Veterinary Clinic Meeting, Zoetis, Steele, ND, "Beef Cattle Depreciation", Outreach, Workshop, Regional, Invited. (September 23, 2015).

Funston, R., Ultrasound Training for Veterinarians, UNL, MARC, Clay Center, MARC, "Importance of calving distribution", Extension, Seminar, Regional, Invited. (2/25/2016).

Funston, R., Western Canadian Veterinary Association Annual Convention, CANWEST, Bannff, Alberta, Canada, "Synchronization Systems", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited. (October 19, 2015).

Funston, R., Zoetis Producer Meeting, Zoetis, Killdeer, ND, "Increasing Beef Production Efficiency", Outreach, Workshop, National, Invited. (September 22, 2015).

Grings, E. E., A. N. Sackey, D. W. Brake, and G. A. Perry. Comparison of camelina meal and distiller’s dried grains with solubles in diet of beef replacement heifers. SDSU 2015 Beef Report 2015-04.

Grussing, T., A. Meyer, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Effects of Supplementing Excess Amounts of Metabolizable Protein from a Moderately Abundant Rumen

Grussing, T.; A. Meyer, G. Perry, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Relationship between Plasma Amino Acid Profile and Ovarian Function around the Time of Ovulation in Beef Cows. Animal Industry Report: AS 662, ASL R3046. Available at: http://lib.dr.iastate.edu/ans_air/vol662/iss1/7

Gunn, P. Beef production in the U.S. and function of the Iowa Beef Center: USFAO sponsored trip of Ukranian Farmers. November 13, 2015.

Gunn, P. Building a herd for the long haul. Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. July, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Gunn, P. Bull selection philosophy. Dysart, IA. (March 7, 2016).

Gunn, P. Can feed efficiency and fertility co-exist? Missouri Livestock Symposium. (December 5, 2015).

Gunn, P. Cornstalks and fall breeding. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. October, 2015, pp 164-165.

Gunn, P. Distillers grains in beef cow diets. Brazilian producer and academic group hosted by Summit Farms. Ames, IA. (July 29, 2016).

Gunn, P. Excess protein not a problem this breeding season? Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. April, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Gunn, P. Getting serious about colostrum. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. February, 2016, pp 190-191.

Gunn, P. Heifer selection- How to Target Longevity and Profit. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association BeefMeets. Independence, Atlantic, and Riverside, IA. (June 23, 28, and 29, 2016).

Gunn, P. J., G. Dahlke, and Werner Family Angus. 2016. Managing Fertility and Longevity in the Beef Herd through Feed Efficiency. Driftless Region Beef Conference. Dubuque, IA, pp22-23.

Gunn, P. J.; A. L. Lundberg, R. A. Cushman, H. C. Freetly, O. L. Amundson, J. A. Walker, and G. A. Perry. 2016. Effect of Circulating Blood or Plasma Urea Nitrogen Concentrations on Reproductive Efficiency in Beef Heifers and Cows. Animal Industry Report: AS 662, ASL R3066. Available at: http://lib.dr.iastate.edu/ans_air/vol662/iss1/27

Gunn, P. Management to reduce calving difficulty. McNay Update for Veterinarians. Chariton, IA. (May 24, 2016)

Gunn, P. Managing Fertility and Longevity in the Beef Herd through Feed Efficiency. Driftless Region Beef Conference. Dubuque, IA. (February 4-5, 2016

Gunn, P. Maximizing your breeding season. McNay Fall field day. Chariton, IA. (August 2, 2016)

Gunn, P. Optimizing beef cattle nutrition from conception to consumption. Ensminger international conference for enhanced livestock production. Jointly conducted by Iowa State and Zamarano Universities. Zamarano, Honduras. (May 13-14, 2016).

Gunn, P. Pregnancy checking pays the bills. Iowa Cattleman- Cow-Calf Commentary August, 2016. p. 18.

Gunn, P. The post-AI nutrition slump. Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. May, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Gunn, P. What is a bull worth? 2016 edition. Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. March, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Gunn, P. Why deworm the cow? Merial Bovine Veterinary Symposium. San Diego, CA. (April 7-10, 2016).

Gunn, P. Why deworm the cow? Merial sales meeting. Postville, IA. (March 31, 2016).

Gunn, P., and L. Schulz. A heightened need for longevity in the cowherd. Iowa Beef Center – Growing Beef Newsletter. January, 2016. Available at: http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/growingbeef.html

Lamb, G. C. Advantages of current and future reproductive technologies for beef cattle production, Joint Annual Meeting, ARPAS Symposium, Orlando, FL

Lamb, G. C. Fetal Programming in Beef Cattle - Merial Producer Seminars, Crystal River, FL.

Lamb, G. C. Herd improvement utilizing AI vs. buying high quality bulls, Florida Heritage Beef Group – Okeechobee, FL

Lamb, G. C. Impacts of changing calving distribution on economic and reproductive efficiency. Alabama Farmers Federation Commodity Organizational Meeting, Montgomery, AL

Lamb, G. C. Impacts of estrous synchronization on cowherd performance. The Range Beef Cow Symposium XXIV, Loveland, CO

Lamb, G. C. Reproductive Management Considerations for Herd Expansion. Montana Nutrition Conference, Bozeman, MT.

Lamb, G. C. Reproductive Management for Beef Cattle (16 presentations in KS, IA, MT, OK, SD). ABS Global Inc. technical service training.

Lamb, G. C. Synchronization programs for heifers and cows, Florida Heritage Beef Group – Okeechobee, FL.

Lamb, G. C. The impacts of estrus synchronization on calving distribution. Kansas State University Cattlemen’s Day, Manhattan, KS.

Lamb, G. C. The Reproduction and nutrition connection. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Cattlemen’s College, San Diego, CA

Lamb, G. C. The role of reproductive technologies for herd expansion. American Angus Association Bootcamp, Marianna, FL.

Lamb, G. C. Use of reproductive technologies to improve economic efficiency of beef operations. Oregon Cow/Calf Seminar Series (4 presentations Oregon)

Lamb, G. C. Using Decision aids to implement AI in the beef herd. Alabama Farmers Federation Commodity Organizational Meeting, Montgomery, AL

Lamb, G. C. What Does It Take to Start an AI Program? – Beef Cattle Short Course, Gainesville, FL

Lamb, G. C., D. D. Henry, N. DiLorenzo, F. M Ciriaco, P. L. P. Fontes, V. R. G. Mercadante, and D. Mayo. 2015. Understanding Pregnancy Diagnosis in Beef Cattle. University of Florida, IFAS, Florida Coop. Ext

Lamb, G. C. 2015. W15th Annual Florida Bull Test Summary and Sale Information. Panhandle Ag e-News. http://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/2015/01/09/15th-annual-florida-bull-test-summary-and-sale-information/

Lamb, G. C. 2015. What are the long-term impacts of estrus synchronization and artificial insemination? Panhandle Ag e-News. http://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/2015/10/09/what-are-the-long-term-impacts-of-es

Lamb, G. C. 2015. What does it take to start an AI program? University of Florida Beef Cattle Short Course http://animal.ifas.ufl.edu/beef_extension/bcsc/2015/speaker_proceedings/lamb.pdf

Lamb. G. C. Economics of AI vs. natural service: Using decision-aid tools. Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Symposium, Davis, CA

Lamb. G. C. Reproductive Management of Commercial Cows, North Florida Cattlemen’s Association Quarterly Meeting, Live Oak, FL.

Larson, J. Assessing the Economic Impacts of Estrus Synchronization and Fixed-Time AI in Beef Production Systems. Beef Improvement Federation – NAAB Symposium, Biloxi, MS.

Larson, J. E. 2015. Using ultrasonography in research applications. Mississippi

Larson, J. E. 2016. Using ultrasonography in research applications. Louisiana Farm Bureau Member Tour, Mississippi State, MS.

Larson, J. E. 2016. Using ultrasonography in research applications. Mississippi Hereford Association Field Day, Mississippi State, MS.

Larson, J. E. Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors, Mississippi State, MS.

Mercadante, V. ABS Global Beef Meetings, Madison and Jefferson City, MO. Speaker: The economic advantages of implementing TAI. March 9 and 10, 2016.

Mercadante, V. Blue Ridge Cattlemen’s Association. Beef 20/20 series. Upperville, VA. Speaker: Improving reproductive efficiency with applied reproductive technologies, fetal programming and how it can effect beef production. April 6, 2016.

Mercadante, V. KSU, Southeast Research and Extension Center. Heifer and Cow Breeding Meeting. Parsons, KS. Speaker: Managing cow synchronization with a real-life cow herd. February 23, 2016.

Mercadante, V.R.G., D.D. Henry, F.M. Ciriaco, P.L.P. Fontes, N. Oosthuizen, and G.C. Lamb. 2016. Estrous Synchronization and Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination. University of Florida, IFAS, Florida Coop. Ext.

Montgomery, A., A. M. Muth-Spurlock, C. Hart, M. Coleson, C. O. Lemley, and J. E. Larson. 2016. Effect of antral follicle count on growth characteristics of follicles and concentrations of steroid hormones in follicular fluid of beef cows. MSU Beef Unit 2016 Research Roundup pp. 9.

Muth-Spurlock, A. M., C. Hart, C. O. Lemley, and J. E. Larson. 2016. The effects of follicular wave on characteristics of fertility in beef cattle. MSU Beef Unit 2016 Research Roundup pp. 10.

Muth-Spurlock, A. M., C. O. Lemley, and J. E. Larson. 2016. Differences in blood perfusion, growth characteristics, and steroid hormones among anovulatory dominant follicles that emerge under basal or luteal concentrations of progesterone in beef cattle. MSU Beef Unit 2016 Research Roundup pp. 8.

Patterson, D. J. Control of estrus and ovulation in beef cows. American Veterinary Medical Association Meetings. August 8, 2016. San Antonio, TX.

Patterson, D. J. Control of estrus and ovulation in beef heifers. American Veterinary Medical Association Meetings. August 8, 2016. San Antonio, TX.

Patterson, D. J. Expediting genetic improvement in beef cattle with fixed-time artificial insemination. Georgia Angus Convention. January 23, 2016. Athens, GA.

Patterson, D. J. Management strategies for adding value to beef heifers: A working model. American Veterinary Medical Association Meetings. August 8, 2016. San Antonio, TX.

Patterson, D. J. Management strategies for adding value to beef heifers: A working model. Food Animal Conference, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. March 19, 2016. Tifton, GA.

Patterson, D. J. Opportunities to enhance pregnancy rates resulting from fixed-time AI. Food Animal Conference, University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. March 19, 2016. Tifton, GA.

Patterson, D. J. Physiological and management advances enhancing adoption of applied reproductive management procedures in beef cattle. Joint Annual Meeting American Societies of Animal and Dairy Science. July 21, 2016. Salt Lake City, UT.

Patterson, DJ, JM Thomas, BE Bishop, JM Abel, and MF Smith. 2015. Control of estrus and ovulation in beef heifers. In: Proceedings, Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle. August 17-18, 2015. Davis, CA. pp. 36-67.

Patterson, DJ, JM Thomas, BE Bishop, JM Abel, JE Decker, and MF Smith. Control of estrus and ovulation in beef cows. In: Proceedings, Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle. August 17-18, 2015. Davis, CA. pp. 68-105.

Perry, G. A. 2015 Interstate Veterinary Conference. Alternative Management Systems: The Good and The Bad; Current Advances in Estrous Synchronization; Fetal Programing: What do we know?

Perry, G. A. 2015 Science and Solutions Symposium. Banff, Canada. Title “Vaccinating with a Modified Live – How it can Impact Reproductive Efficiency”

Perry, G. A. Academy of Veterinary Consultants conference Kansas City, Mo August 2016

Perry, G. A. Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Conference. 2015. Davis, California “Management Factors that Impact the Efficiency and Applied Reproductive Technologies”

Perry, G. A. British Society of Animal Science. Chester, England. 2016. Title” Reproductive management of beef heifers.”

Perry, G. A. Merial 2016 Bovine Veterinary Symposiums. Tempe, Arizona and Miami, Florida “Impact of Nutrition on Reproductive Success and Fetal Programing.”

Rhoads, M. American Association of Bovine Practitioners Hands on Embryo Transfer School; Physiology of superovulation and synchronization. Instructor, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, August 10, 2016.

Rhoads, M. American Association of Bovine Practitioners Hands on Embryo Transfer School; Physiology of superovulation and synchronization. Instructor, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, August 17, 2015.

Richardson, B.N., S. L. Hill, J. S. Stevenson, G. D. Djira, and G. A. Perry. Importance of estrus expression before fixed-time AI on conception rates in beef cattle. SDSU 2015 Beef Report 2015-01.

Schulz, L. L., C. E. Andresen, and P. J. Gunn. 2016. Factors Affecting Timing and Intensity of Calving Season of Beef Cow-Calf Producers in the Midwest. Animal Industry Report: AS 662, ASL R3053. Available at: http://lib.dr.iastate.edu/ans_air/vol662/iss1/14

Smith, MF, GA Perry, KG Pohler, SE Dickinson, and DJ Patterson. 2015. Establishment of pregnancy in beef cattle: Application of basic principles. In: Proceedings, Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle. August 17-18. Davis, CA. pp. 9-35.

Stevenson, J. S. 70th Annual Conference for Veterinarians (KVMA) (June 7-8, 2016)

Stevenson, J. S. Parnell Sales Meeting, Overland Park, KS (May 24, 2016)

Stevenson, J. S. Physiological and management advances enhancing adoption of applied reproductive management procedures in dairy cattle. Joint Annual Meeting American Societies of Animal and Dairy Science. July 21, 2016. Salt Lake City, UT.

Stevenson, J. S. KSU College of Veterinary Medicine AABP student group (February 8, 2016)

Articles in the Popular Press (non-peer reviewed)

Fricke, P. M. 2016. Strategies for Nonpregnancy Diagnosis in Dairy Cows. Hoard’s Dairyman Webinar, May 9.

Gunn, P. Maximizing the value of estrous synchronization. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. May, 2016. Pp 82-83.

Gunn, P. New management practices for the New Year. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. January, 2016. Pp 124-125.

Gunn, P. New Year’s resolutions. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. December, 2015. Pp 77-78.

Gunn, P. nutritionally preparing for spring calving. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. November, 2015, pp 84-85.

Gunn, P. Parasite control Part 1. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. June, 2016. p.68.

Gunn, P. Parasite control Part 2. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. July, 2016. p.58.

Gunn, P. Revisiting vitamins. Angus Journal- Angus Advisor. September, 2015. p.252.

Lamb, G.C. 2015. How have early reproductive developments affected beef production systems? The Florida Cattlemen and Livestock Journal 80:42-46.

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Options for diagnosis of pregnancy for beef cattle. The Florida Cattlemen and Livestock Journal 79:8-14.

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Pregnancy diagnosis options for beef cattle producers. Panhandle Ag e-News. http://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/2015/05/22/pregnancy-diagnosis-options-for-beef-cattle-producers/

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Reducing the breeding season using reproductive technologies – A case study. The Florida Cattlemen and Livestock Journal 79:32-33.

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Advantages of Reproductive Technologies (1). Angus Journal (September 2015:264-266)

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Advantages of Reproductive Technologies (2). Angus Journal (October 2015:178-179)

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Heifer Development. Angus Journal (February 2015:140-141)

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Planning for the Breeding Season. Angus Journal (April 2015:134-136).

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Reducing the breeding season using reproductive technologies – A case study. The Florida Cattlemen and Livestock Journal 79:32-33.

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Sexed Semen. Angus Journal (March 2015:202-204).

Lamb, G.C. 2015. Repro Tracks – Stress and Reproduction. Angus Journal (August 2015:90-93).

Lamb, G.C. 2015. What should producers consider when implementing an artificial insemination program in their operations? Braford News, Fall 2015, pp 16-18.

Lamb, G.C. 2016. Advanced reproductive technologies that may impact beef production systems in the near future. The Florida Cattlemen and Livestock Journal 80:52-56.

Stevenson, J. S. 2015. GnRH enhances presynch programs and preg rates. Hoard’s Dairyman 160:632. October 10, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2015. Research validates timed A.I. programs. Hoard’s Dairyman 160:573. September 10, 2015.

Stevenson, J. S. 2015. When is the optimal time to run new-age preg tests? Hoard’s Dairyman 160:726. November, 2015.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Body condition and body weight predict fertility. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:253. April 10, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Celebrating 10 years of stepped-up reproduction. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:25. January 10, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Critical points to monitor in your timed A.I. program. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:90. February 10, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Delay timing of A.I. with sexed semen. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:400. June, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. Prepare for better summer production and reproduction. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:333. May 10, 2016.

Stevenson, J. S. 2016. We’re getting more cystic and aborted cows pregnant. Hoard’s Dairyman 161:164. March 10, 2016.