Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

The meeting was called to order by Stephan Wildeus, current chair of the project. After his welcome to the group, Jim Miller chaired the session on station reports which were presented in alphabetical order of institutions as follows: Delaware State University (Kwame Matthews), Fort Valley State University (Niki Whitley), Langston University (Art Goetsch), Louisiana State University (Jim Miller), University of Maryland (Susan Schoenian), Prairie View A&M University Gary Newton), USDA-ARS, Booneville (Joan Burke), University of the Virgin Islands (Bob Godfrey), Virginia State University (Dahlia O’Brien), and West Virginia University (Scott Bowdridge). Doug Tolleson presented activities at Texas A&M University. Station reports were followed by the business meeting.  Stephan proposed that Art Goetsch be the new Secretary. Art agreed and was elected as the new Secretary. Jim Miller will move up to Chair next year. Robert Godfrey, Administrative Advisor, gave a brief report. The project is in year 3 and due for renewal in 2022. Next year should discuss the rewrite. Art should start thinking about it with the help of a rewrite committee (Joan Burke, Scott Bowdridge, Stephan Wildeus and Susan Schoenian). The annual report is due in 60 days after this meeting. NIFA has moved to Kansas and many of the staff did not move. For FY 2020, 1890 funding will increase and 1862 funding will remain unchanged. It is okay to bring in representatives from outside the region if appropriate. There was a question of format for presenting reports, and we will continue reporting in alphabetical order rather than by objective.

It was noted again this year that the current official project participant list does not reflect some of those that attended the meeting or submitted a report. It was discussed and decided that it is not appropriate to include such station reports in the annual report this year. The list will be reviewed and those who submitted reports and are not official members will be contacted to become official members or they will not be allowed to submit reports in the future. It is important for those who are official members to submit a report if they are unable to attend the meeting. Those not in compliance will be contacted indicating that responsibility. And, if the representative cannot attend the meeting, they need to contact the Chair to indicate such. Some of those not at the morning session said they were not aware of it because the ASAS Southern Section (ASASSS) website did not list it on the program, with only the afternoon mini-symposium being listed. However, the morning session was listed on the ASASSS mobile app for the meeting and Dr. Wildeus sent an email indicating a full day was dedicated for SCC-81. It was noted that NIMSS should send out a meeting email notice too, indicating meeting information.

The symposium next year (SSASAS meeting in Raleigh, NC, January 23-26) will hopefully be in conjunction with SERA 41, with the topic being an updating of information on control of internal parasites of cattle and small ruminants.  Jim Miller will coordinate that effort.

The business meeting was adjourned at 11:55 am.

After a lunch break the group reconvened for the symposium on ‘Forage raised lamb and goat.’ The symposium was chaired by Stephan Wildeus and presentations were given by Gabe Pent (Virginia Tech), Uma Karki (Tuskegee University), Susan Schoenian (University of Maryland), Jung Lee (Fort Valley State University), Joan Burke (USDA-ARS Booneville, AR) and Dahlia O’Brien (Virginia State University). The presentations were followed by a roundtable discussion, concluding the symposium.

Accomplishments

Objective 1: Utilization of gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) control methods including selective deworming, forage/grazing management, and animal selection for GIN resistance.

Fort Valley State University reported 3 studies. Study 1 investigated the potential impact of ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) on indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism in goats. Overall, there were no effects of ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza on fecal egg and coccidia oocyst counts, but packed cell volume was improved. Study 2 was an additional investigation into potential impact of ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) on indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism in goats. Overall, there were few effects of ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza on fecal egg and coccidia oocyst counts and no effect of AU Grazer which was surprising. The AUGrazer came from a different farm source, so more research is needed into impacts of farm site/forage management on plant bioactivity. Study 3 compared impacts of sericea lespedeza from two different farms on indicators of gastrointestinal parasites. This study confirmed the efficacy of AUGrazer sericea lespedeza in improving indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism in goats but did not provide insight into the lack of an effect seen in the previous study.

Langston University reported on selection of meat goats and hair sheep for resistance to internal parasitism. Results were not finalized, but preliminary analyses indicated there was a moderate to high degree of improvement in resistance of progeny from the first selective breeding of both species. There was little further change noted from the second selective breeding, reasons for which have not yet been elucidated. Selection did not have adverse effects on growth performance. Sheep were more resistant than goats, and sheep resistance was greatest for St. Croix and lowest for Dorper.

North Carolina A&T State University reported 2 studies. Study 1 investigated the effect of mushroom (Coriolus versicolor) probiotic on galectin gene secretion in goat blood. Coriolus versicolor (CV) has been reported to boost suppressed immune function. There was an effect of treatment in total plasma protein concentration when compared to the control group. Galectins tested were secreted in both control and treatment groups. Treatment with CV decreased the concentration of Gal-1, 8 and 9 and increased the concentration of Gal-3 and -12. Results indicate that mushroom probiotics can modulate the secretion of galectin genes. Study 2 investigated the effect of oligodeoxynucleotides on Toll-like receptor pathway genes in goat blood. Poly I:C treatment modulated the expression of genes in the TLR signaling pathway and provides insights into how goats respond to viral pathogens for the design of adjuvants to enhance the immune response.

USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Booneville, AR reported an investigation on estimating the value of parasite resistance in sheep. Using NSIP FEC EBVs in selecting for parasite resistance led to more rapid genetic progress after 2012 than only using FEC between 2004 and 2012 within the ARS flock. NSIP is currently being used by family farms across the U.S. Producers wishing to improve parasite resistance through selection can benefit by using NSIP and increase sale price. A higher FEC EBV used by commercial producers will reduce the need for deworming in their lambs.

West Virginia University reported 2 studies. Study 1 investigated the effect of sire FEC EBV on parasitism and survivability in grazing Katahdin lambs. Results indicated that low FEC-sired lambs had reduced parasite burden and were more likely to survive until weaned. Thus, sire selection for low FEC EBV can have indirect effects on lamb survival outside the realm of death due to parasitism. Study 2 investigated the effect of sire FEC EBV on antibody production of grazing Katahdin lambs. Absorbance of serum from low FEC-sired lambs was higher across all time points than that of serum from high FEC-sired lambs, meaning that low FEC-sired lambs had higher circulating IgG than lambs sired by high FEC rams. This provides preliminary evidence that indicates segregation of lamb generalized immunity by sire FEC EBV.

Objective 2: Emphasis of forage feeding systems for year-round grazing to meet nutritional requirements that mitigate drought and other plant and animal stressors.

Fort Valley State University reported 2 studies. Study 1 investigated the influence of elevated protein and tannin‐rich peanut skin supplementation on growth performance, blood metabolites, carcass traits and immune‐related gene expression of grazing meat goats. The addition of peanut skin-pellet or rumen-undegradable protein supplementation improved ADG and altered selected lipogenic and immune-related gene expressions. If immune function is altered, there could be benefits related to parasites along with improved growth and carcass- related traits. Study 2 investigated the nutritional and bioactivity potential of Lespedeza species obtained from the USDA Plant Genetic Resources Conservation Unit in Griffin, GA. All Lespedeza species tested in this study, particularly L. virginica, have potential as nutraceutical forages for livestock production systems. As L. cuneata accessions established and grew much better than other Lespedeza species, agronomic testing of this germplasm collection in other environments is warranted. In addition, determining potential anti-parasitic properties of these species using in vitro and in vivo testing would be beneficial.

University of Georgia reported on a preliminary investigation of the impact of camphor on in vitro caprine mixed ruminal microorganism fermentation from goats selected for consumption of high levels of Juniperus spp. Results suggested that the goats selected for increased juniper consumption could be sources of ruminal microorganisms that could be used as probiotic additions to goats or other ruminants feeding in areas with high juniper invasion. This could increase utilization of this rapidly growing forage by small ruminants and could further help control spread of this invasive plant species from beyond its current range.

University of Maryland investigated growth and carcass characteristics of ram, wether and short-scrotum lambs: year 2. Ram and short-scrotum lambs had heavier final weights, carcass weights, and higher ADG than wether lambs. Wether lambs had more back fat and higher dressing percentage. There were no differences in carcass muscling. Ram and short-scrotum lambs grow faster and produce leaner carcasses. Leaving male lambs intact or performing the short-scrotum procedure will increase profitability of sheep enterprises.

North Carolina A&T State University reported on variation in bitter taste receptor genes in three breeds of goats.  All seven taste gene variants were detected in the Savannah breed, in Spanish goats T2R4 and T213 were not detected, and in Boer goats only T2R3, T2R16 and T2R13 were detected. Polymorphisms in T2R impact dietary preference, innate immunity and health. Thus, studies are needed to ascertain the possible functional significance of this variation using a larger sample size.

USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Booneville, AR compared organic with conventional systems for lamb production yield differences in performance in Southeastern U.S. pastures. For ewes, year (21014-18) and season (fall-winter) effects were significant for all traits, and group x year for most traits. Pregnancy rate and litter birth rate were not consistent between groups or years. Organic ewes were more efficient (lamb/ewe weights) in 2018, but mostly similar to connential otherwise. For lambs, birth weight, FEC and PCV were also not consistent between years and seasons. Incidence of deworming was similar between organic and conventional. Because copper oxide wire particles (COWP) were used for most organic dewormings compared with combinations of COWP with anthelmintics in conventional ewes, the majority of lambs were eligible for organic certification. Comparisons between farming systems are complex and should consider factors such as varietal and seasonal changes in forages and other pasture/forage inputs, and genetic selection over time.

Virginia State University reported 2 studies. Study 1 investigated growth performance of landrace hair sheep lambs under different forage environments. Mean ADG was higher in St. Croix than Barbados Blackbelly, and ram than ewe lambs. Older cohorts in each grazing period had higher ADG than younger cohorts. There was a wide range in ADG for individual weigh periods, but warm and cool season annuals and hay feeding forage environments produced similar ADG; while summer perennial forage grazing ADG was lower. Supplementing forage with soy hull may have masked differences in lamb growth between forage environments despite higher crude protein and TDN in the annual forages than in hay and perennial summer grazing. Study 2 investigated the influence of cut, breed type and supplementation on consumer ratings of pasture-raised lamb meat. The survey response rate was 66%. 92% had eaten lamb before. Cut of lamb did not influence before and after cooking attributes. Before cooking aroma was influenced by breed only. All other before cooking attributes were influenced by a breed x diet effect. After cooking texture was influenced by breed while diet tended to influence after cooking juiciness. 47% indicated that they would pay a premium for local lamb. Results suggested that meat from pasture-raised hair sheep lambs could provide an opportunity to enhance profitability for small-scale producers in Virginia.

West Virginia University reported 2 studies. Study 1 investigated residual feed intake in Katahdin and Texel lambs in a feedlot environment. Residual feed intake was determined for Texel and Katahdin lambs which appeared to be normally distributed. This helps to establish ranges of efficiency that we can expect to see within different breeds in efforts to add this trait, or one like it, to large-scale genetic evaluation. Study 2 investigated the effect of terminal sire breed on grazing performance, parasitism, and market grade of crossbred lambs: year 2. There was no significant difference in FEC and PCV between Texel and Suffolk sired lambs. Fewer dewormings were necessary in Texel-sired lambs. There was no difference in composition between sired breeds. Texel sired lambs received a premium at weaning and at the conclusion of the grazing period. This indicates that Texel sired lambs required fewer dewormings and brought higher prices when marketed at a graded auction.

Objective 3: Strategies for the improvement of small ruminant reproduction.

North Carolina A&T State University investigated the effect of oligodeoxynucleotides on Toll-like receptor pathway genes in goat blood. Of 84 genes tested and 74 were expressed in various ways. Specific patterns of TLR signaling may be involved in response to the immunostimulatory effects in goats with implicates for their use as adjuvants to enhance goat health.

Prairie View A&M University compared transcervical and intracervical artificial insemination techniques for fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) in the goat.  There was no difference in pregnancy/artificial insemination or breed (Alpine, Boer and Spanish) between transcervical or intracervical techniques. FTAI favored Alpine and Boer over Spanish. Intracervical requires less technical proficiency and is a practical technique for FTAI in the goat.

University of the Virgin Islands reported 2 studies. Study 1 evaluated extended hair sheep ram semen stored as liquid at 5°C. Semen was collected, extended and stored 5°C or in an Equitainer® set up using the manufacturer’s instructions. There was no difference in motility or viability over time between breeds or cooling method. Study 2 investigated the use of heat detection patches during breeding in hair sheep. Ewes wearing the patches were identified as being bred by the ram just as well as the ewes with rams wearing harnesses. Patches were activated by the rams mounting and were very visible from a distance. Analysis of efficacy of the heat detection patches and the economics of replacing patches to identify animals that breed back later in the season vs changing crayons needs to be evaluated.

Virginia State University reported 3 studies. Study 1 investigated the reproductive performance of land race hair sheep ewes in different breeding seasons under semi-continuous production. Pregnancy rate, litter size, lamb survival at birth, birth weight and survival to weaning varied between 4-month breeding cycles with no real advantage to any of the 3 time periods. This suggests that dual flock, accelerated mating of landrace hair sheep ewes can produce lamb cohorts of similar size in 4 months intervals under a low-input, forage-based production system. Study 2 investigated reproductive tract characteristics in intact and short scrotum dairy sheep lambs. Ram lambs rendered short-scrotum by day 10 of age had smaller testis and sperm reserves compromising their reproductive capacity. Study 3 investigated libido, semen quality and sperm reserves of post-pubertal lambs after being rendered short scrotum. There was no difference in reproductive behavior or ejaculate volume between intact and short-scrotum lambs, but percent motile sperm, sperm concentration and epididymal sperm reserves favored intact lambs. Results confirm earlier findings that reproductive function was greatly reduced, but not eliminated in short scrotum ram lambs.

Objective 4: Disseminate research results and information to stakeholders.

Delaware State University hosted 3 information venues. 1) Goat Meat Management and Marketing: Opportunities and Constraints Workshop. Twenty producers participated. Post-workshop evaluations were collected with 100% indicating excellent and thought the information was very clear and in a concise manner. The information was useful to improve their herd management and enlightened them in ways they need to market their animals for maximum financial return. The participants developed knowledge in good marketing strategies whether they are marketing meat animals or marketing the milk from the animals. They all indicated that they will be looking into different ways to sell their meat products and also into different auctions to market their animals to. 2) Integrative Parasite Management. 42 participants attended including 25 youth. 40 participants received FAMCAHA© certification and all participants acquiring skills in fecal egg counts. Many of them indicated they felt the training was useful and increased their knowledge in small ruminant internal parasite management. Post conference evaluations showed 90% rated the overall workshop as excellent and the remaining 10% as good with all the participants believing the information was given in a clear and concise manner. 3) Delaware Small Ruminant Field (Nutrition for Productive and Efficient Sheep and Goat Farms). 17 participants from Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. Post conference evaluations showed 98% rated excellent and thought the information was very clear and in a concise manner. Additionally, all the producers indicated they learned something they were unaware of.

Fort Valley State University hosted 4 informative venues. 1) Livestock Integrated Parasite Management and Fecal Egg Counting (FEC) Training. 100 participants attended and many indicated they felt the training was useful. With this training, field staff and farmers are better able to understand how to manage GIN parasites in small ruminants. 2) Sericea Lespedeza (SL) for Integrated Parasite Management.  55 participants attended and 20 farmers were recruited for participating by planting 5 – 10 acres of sericea lespedeza. With this training, field staff and farmers are better able grow, manage and harvest SL as a product for use with small ruminant parasite management. 3) Journeyman Farmer Certificate Program Small Ruminant Production Integrated Parasite Management/FAMACHA Training. 10 participants were trained and received certification. With this training, field staff are better able to provide training for farmers to understand how to manage GIN parasites in small ruminants. 4) Integrated Parasite Management Best Practices Fact Sheets, ACSRPC. Four best management practice type fact sheets were published online and six were distributed at several events, including the Georgia National Fair and the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition in October. This information might be used to help reduce morbidity and perhaps mortalities due to internal parasite infection.

Langston University hosted 5 informative venues. 1) Goat and Hair Sheep Field Day (theme: Holistic Approach). 116 participants attended and 31 participants completed the evaluation survey. 81% rated the session as excellent, 16% as good, 3% as satisfactory, and 0% as unsatisfactory. This event provided small ruminant producers with the information that they need. Many comments were received for future information. 2) Online Meat and Dairy Goat Certification Courses. In the first two years of the Dairy Goat Producer Certification program, 1,564 participants enrolled and 119 received certification. In the same time period, 495 participants enrolled and 47 received certification in the Meat Goat Producer Certification program. Post-test scores were 30% higher than pre-test scores, indicating a gain in knowledge by the producer. These certification courses are a trusted source of science-based goat production information. The online availability allows access to find needed information to safeguard the health and welfare of their animals. 3) Goatskin Tanning Workshop. 9 participants rated the workshop favorably and indicated that they gained knowledge on tanning and learned new skills. From previous workshops some do try to tan skins at home. Tanning at home is a cheaper alternative than sending a skin to a professional tannery. 4) Artificial Insemination Workshop. 14 participants received practical knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to immediately use artificial insemination in their herds. Those who completed evaluation forms rated the workshop as excellent. Many comments were received for future information. 5) American Institute for Goat Research website.  Overall in 2019, there were 99,211 visits (up 60% from 2018). Visitors spent an average 1 minutes and 31 seconds, which is down slightly from 2018 (1 minutes, 34 seconds). Delivering science-based information to goat producers is a top priority for land-grant universities and the preferred delivery system has been a presence on the Internet. University web developers must keep the mobile user in mind when developing web sites.

Louisiana State University participated in numerous informative parasite control workshop venues (MS, USDA/APHIS, TX) with over 200 professionals/producers in attendance.
Dissemination of research results have led to use of technologies to better manage parasites, reduce animal losses, and increase profits. Knowledge gained by scientists.

University of Maryland ACSPRC Web Site. The web site is always a work in progress. It includes a membership directory, list of FAMACHA© instructors, events listing, video library, image gallery, articles, fact sheets, conference proceedings, subject matter links, and a blog/newsletter. Since 2013, 59 Timely Topic news articles have been published. In 2017, a fact sheet series entitled “Best Management Practices to Control Internal Parasites in Small Ruminants” was initiated. So far, 9 peer-reviewed fact sheets have been published. Since 2017, over 150 blog posts have been made since 2018, 25 issues of the WORMinfo newsletter have been published and shared. According to Google Analytics, approximately 83 percent of 2019 users were from the US. Non-US countries with the most users were Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and South Africa. Search engines (Google) accounted for most of web traffic. The web site is reaching a growing global audience, with a growth of >20% in the past year.

USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Booneville, AR participated in numerous informative parasite control workshop venues (GA, CO, TN, Belgium) with over 900 professionals/producers in attendance. Dissemination of research results had led to use of technologies to better manage parasites, reduce animal losses, and increase profits. Knowledge gained by scientists. Dissemination of genetics with known breeding values to improve flock genetics, especially parasite resistance.

Virginia State University hosted 4 informative venues. 1) Starting a Sheep and Goat Meat Enterprise.  2 small enterprise workshops were conducted (60 producers and extension agents), 1 curriculum was updated for training, and 6 extension publications were developed. Programs conducted increased knowledge on starting a small ruminant meat enterprise. 2) Sustainable Integrated Parasite Management in Small Ruminants. 7 parasite management workshops/trainings were conducted (150 stakeholders and extension agents), 1 extension publications were developed, 26 small ruminant producers were certified in FAMACHA, 30 youth trained in conducting fecal egg counts. Programs conducted increased knowledge on small ruminant internal parasite management. 3) VSU’s Pasture Lambing Workshops 2019 (19 participants). Pre- and post-tests indicated there was a 59% increase in knowledge attained. The workshops increased participant’s knowledge on pasture lambing, including increasing reproductive efficiency, supplies needed and dealing with dystocia and other issues during lambing. 4) VA’s Own Mobile Processing Unit (MPU). A mobile unit was designed and build for slaughter processing to educate and enhance profitability of Virginia’s small ruminant industry. This unit will provide many producers located in central and eastern VA to have access to an additional USDA-inspected slaughter facility so farmers can take full advantage of profitability in the growing local food system marketplace.

Journal articles

Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Ashworth, A., Rorie, R.W., 2019. Relationship between anti- Mullerian hormone (AMH) and reproductive traits in Katahdin ewes bred in late spring or fall. Adv. Repro. Sci. (In Press).

Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Rorie, R., 2020. Semen extension in Katahdin rams. Adv. Reprod. Sci. 8, 14-30.

Adams, T.C., Philipp, D., Burner, D.M., Jennings, J., McPeake, B.M., Ashworth, A.J., Pote, D.H., Burke, J.M., Rhein, R., 2019. White (Trifolium repens L.) and arrowleaf (Trifolium vesiculosum Savi) clover emergence in varying loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) tree alley spacings. Amer. J. Plant Sci. 10, 659-669.

Becker, G.M., Davenport, K.M., Burke, J.M., Lewis, R.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L., Notter, D.L., Murdoch, B.M., 2019. Genome-wide association study to identify genetic loci associated with gastrointestinal nematode resistance in Katahdin sheep. Anim. Gen. doi: 10.1111/age.12895.

Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E. 2019. Sustainable approaches to parasite control in ruminant livestock. Vet. Clinics: Food Anim. Pract. (In Press).

Burke, J.M., Schoenian, S., Freking, B., Semler, J., Gordon, D., Bennett, M.B., O’Brien, D., Wood, E., 2019. Complete anthelmintic resistance prevalence in U.S. meat goats. Sheep Goat Res. J. 34, 1-5.

Dykes, D.S., Terrill, T.H., Whitley, N.C., Singh, A.K., Mosjidis, J.A., Burke, J.M., Kouakou, B., Miller, J.E., 2019. Effect of ground and pelleted sericea lespedeza whole plant and leaf only on gastrointestinal nematode and coccidial infection in goats. J. Agric. Sci Tech A 9, 93-102.

Estrada-Reyes, Z. M., Y. Tsukahara, A. L. Goetsch, T. A. Gipson, T. Sahlu, R. Puchala, and R. G. Mateescu. 2019. Association analysis identifies immune response loci related to Haemonchus contortus exposure in sheep and goats using a targeted approach. Livest. Sci. 229:109-119. doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2019.08.005.

Estrada-Reyes, Z. M., Y. Tsukahara, A. L. Goetsch, T. A. Gipson, T. Sahlu, R. Puchala, and R. G. Mateescu. 2019. Signatures of selection for resistance to Haemonchus contortus in sheep and goats. BCM Genomics 20:735. doi.org/10.1186/s12864-019-615-y.

Mata-Padrino, D.J., D.P Belesky, C.D. Crawford, B. Walsh, J.W. MacAdam, S.A. Bowdridge. 2019. Effects of grazing birdsfoot trefoil-enriched pasture on managing Haemonchus contortus infection in Suffolk crossbred lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 97: 172-183

Middleton, D.M., J.J. Garza, S.P. Greiner, S.A. Bowdridge. 2019. Neutrophils rapidly produce TH2 cytokines in response to larval but not adult helminth antigen. Parasit. Immunol. https://doi.org/10.1111/pim.12679

Min, B.R., F. Abrahamsen, N. Gurung, J. H. Lee, J. W. Joo, and W. Pacheco. 2019. Peanut skin in diet alters average daily gain, ruminal and blood metabolites, and carcass traits associated with Haemonchus contortus infection in meat goats. Anim. Nut. 5: 278-285. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2019.05.006

Min, B.R., K. McTear, H.H. Wang, M. Joakin, N. Gurung, F. Abrahamsen, S. Solaiman, J. Sue Eun, J. Hon Lee, L. A. Dietz and W. E. Zeller. 2019. Influence of elevated protein and tannin‐rich peanut skin supplementation on growth performance, blood metabolites, carcass traits and immune‐related gene expression of grazing meat goats. J. Anim. Phys. Nut. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpn.13250

Newton, G.R., Lewis, S.K., Avendano, J.A., Williams, E.A., Ribeiro, F.L.R., Nuti, L.C., Foxworth, W.B., and Ing, N.H. 2019. Fucosyltransferase gene expression varies in goat endometrium during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. Theriogenology 132:118-127.

O’Brien, D.J., Wildeus, S. 2019. On-Farm Validation of a Liquid Semen Vaginal Artificial Insemination Protocol in Hair Sheep. Journal of Extension 57(2):2RIB6

Reynolds, D., B. R. Min, N. Gurung, W. McElhenney, J. H. Lee, S. Solaiman, O. Bolden-Tiller. 2019. Influence of tannin-rich pine bark supplementation in the grain mixes for meat goats: Growth performance, blood metabolites, and carcass characteristics. Anim. Nut. J. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aninu.2019.09.00

Schoenian, S., O’Brien, D., Whitley, N., and Howell, S. 2019. Anthelmintic resistance on commercial sheep farms in the southeastern US. Journal of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. Vol 12 (2). https://www.nacaa.com/journal/index.php?jid=1015

Singh, A., V. Owen, G. Dykes, H. Naumann, A. Mahapatra, and T. Terrill. 2019. Effect of Ensiling on Nutritional Properties of Sericea Lespedeza Alone or in Mixtures with Alfalfa. J. Agri. Sci. Tech. A9:310-322. doi: 10.17265/2161-6256/2019.05.004

Tsukahara, Y., T. A. Gipson, S. P. Hart, L. J. Dawson, Z. Wang, R. Puchala, T. Sahlu, and A. L. Goetsch. 2019. Across and within breed differences in the relationship between packed cell volume and fecal egg count in growing meat goat and hair sheep males naturally and artificially infected with Haemonchus contortus. Vet. Parasitol.: Regional Studies and Reports 17:100311. doi.org/10.1016/j.vprsr.2019.100311.

Wood, E., Burke, J.M., Philipp, D., Acharya, M., Miller, J.E., Coffey, K.P., 2019. Gastrointestinal nematode infection and growth of grass-based Katahdin lambs. Sheep Goat Res. J. 33, 1-10.

Abstracts and Proceedings

Acharya-Sharma, R., Fitting, E., Burke, J., Joshi, N., 2019. Different pan traps for sampling pollinators and beneficial arthropods in the livestock pasture ecosystem. Entomol. Soc. Amer., St. Louis, MO.

Becker, G.M., Sawyer, R.J., Davenport, K.M., Rodriguez, A.M., Burke, J.M., Lewis, R., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J., Murdoch, B.M., 2019. Understanding the molecular mechanisms for gastrointestinal parasite resistance in Katahdin sheep. Plant Anim. Gen. Conf., San Diego, CA, Jan 13, 2019.

Blake, F. and Matthews, K., Prevalence of Toxoplasma Gondii in Meat Goat Does. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

Bowdridge, S.A., J.J. Garza, S.P. Greiner, C.I. Maierle, D.J. Mata-Padrino, R.T. Rohrbaugh, R.H. Tuckwiller, A.R. Weaver. 2019. Effect of terminal sire breed on grazing performance, parasitism and market grade of crossbred lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 97: Supp. 1, 73-74. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz053.166

Bowdridge, S.A., S.P. Greiner, A.R. Weaver, D.L. Wright. 2019. Utilization of Katahdin rams with lower fecal egg count estimated breeding values improves parasite resistance and fitness traits of progeny. J. Anim. Sci. 97: Supp. 1, 78. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz053.178

Brice, R., Wildeus, S. 2019. Effect of breed, sex, birth type and lambing season on growth rate of

forage-reared lambs. Proc. ARD 19th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 206.

Burke, J.M., Wood, E. 2020. Estimating the value of parasite resistance in sheep. Southern SAWG, Little Rock, AR.

Burke, J.M., 2020. Organic compared with conventional systems for lamb production yield differences in performance in Southeastern U.S. pastures. Southern SAWG Organic Research Forum, Little Rock, AR.

Burke, J.M., Notter, D.R., Morgan, J.L.M., Miller, J.E., Lewis, R.M., Heidaritabar, M., 2019. Integrating genetic selection with selective anthelmintic treatment to manage gastrointestinal nematodes in Katahdin sheep in the United States. Joint COMBAR/ACSRPC meeting, Ghent, Belgium. P. 74.

Ekwemalor, Kingsley; Worku, Mulumebet, 2019. PSVI-3 The effect of oligodeoxynucleotides on Toll-like receptor pathway genes in goat blood. Journal of Animal Science, Volume 97, Suppl. 3, page 197, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.406

Ekwemalor, Kingsley; Worku, Mulumebet. 2019. PSX-41 Effect of Polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid on gene expression in goat blood. Journal of Animal Science, Volume 97, Suppl. 3, Page 449, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.884

Foxworth, W.B., Horner, S., Nuti, L., Ho-Watson, A., Gilmore, I., Gutierrez, K., Lewis S.K., and Newton, G.R. 2019. Comparison of Transcervical and Intracervical Artificial Insemination Techniques for Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI) in the Goat. J. Anim. Sci., 97, Supplement 3, Page 464 https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.914

Godfrey, R.W., A.L. Nero and S.A. Lakos. 2019. A comparison of body temperature among pregnant, non-pregnant and lactating hair sheep ewes in the tropics. J. Anim. Sci. 97(Suppl. 3):169–170, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.349

Harris, S., Niblett, T., Harris, J., Blake, F., Ozbay, G., Aryee, A., Matthews, K., 2019. Preliminary Effects of Pumpkin Seed and Flesh Combination Extract on Third Stage Haemonchus contortus Larvae. Delaware State University 2019 Summer Research Symposium.

Harris, J. and Matthews, K., 2019. The Effects of Feeding Corn or Barley Based Feed on Body Weight in Meat-Goat Kids. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

Harris, J., K. Matthews and D. O’Brien. 2019. Effects of Estrous Synchronization Protocols on Meat Goat Mating, Pregnancy and Kid Performance. Proc. ARD 19th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 204.

Hazard, T., N. Whitley, P. Batchu, C. Pulsifer, B. Kouakou, and T. H. Terrill. 2019. Effect of feeding ‘Serala’ sericea lespedeza hay on indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism in goats. J. Anim. Sci. (Suppl. 3) 97:460–461, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.907

Jeanjulien, C., Lee, J. H., Wildeus, S. 2019. Incorporation of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty

acids in fresh lamb by feeding rumen-protected dietary supplement. AOCS Ann. Meet. & Expo,

St. Louis, MO, p. 2

Levy, G. and Matthews, K,. 2019. Proposal for Identifying Chemical Compounds with In vitro Anthelmintic Effects on H. contortus. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

Lynch, E.,  Niblett, T., Harris, J., Blake, F., Aryee, A., Matthews. K., 2019. In vitro Anthelmintic Effects of Pumpkin Flesh Extract on Haemonchus contortus. Delaware State University 2019 Summer Research Symposium.

Lynch, E. and Matthews, K., 2019. The Proposal of In Vitro Anthelmintic Effects of Pumpkin Flesh on Haemonchus contortus. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

Lynn, S. and Matthews. K., Influence of Kiko, Boer, and Savanna Bucks on Mating and Pregnancy Response in Meat Goats. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

Mezil-Thomas, J., Wildeus, S. 2019. Rate of egg-yolk inclusion in a milk extender on sperm

kinematics of ram semen during chilled liquid storage. Proc. ARD 19th Biannual Research

Symposium, p. 63.

Middleton, D.D., S.A. Bowdridge. 2019. Neutrophils rapidly produce Th2 cytokines in response to larval but not adult helminth antigen. 23^rd Woods Hole Immunoparasitology Meeting, Woods Hole, MA

Niblett, R. and Matthews, K., 2019. The Effects of Cucurbitacin on Haemonchus contortus In Vitro. 2019. Delaware State University Honor’s Day.

O’Brien, D., Wildeus, S., Schoenian, S., Semler, J., Gordon, D., Bennett, M., Anderson, C., and Travis. A. 2019. Libido and semen quality in intact and altered (short scrotum and castrate) post-pubertal male dairy sheep lambs. J. Anim. Sci., 97, Supplement 1, Page 76, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz053.173

O’Brien, D., Wildeus, S., Schoenian, S., Anderson, C., Travis, A. 2019. Libido and semen quality in intact and altered (short scrotum and castrated) post-pubertal male dairy sheep lambs. J. Anim. Sci., Vol. 97, Suppl. 1. 76

O’Brien, D., Wildeus, S., Nartea, T., Lee, J. 2019. Influence of cut, breed type and

supplementation on consumer ratings of pasture-raised lamb. J. Anim. Sci., Vol. 97, Suppl. 3.

454-455

Pettiford, K., Niblett, T., Harris, J., Blake, F., Aryee, A., Matthews, K., 2019. Efficacy of Pumpkin Skin Extract on Haemonchus Contortus Third Stage Larvae. Delaware State University  2019 Summer Research Symposium.

Schoenian, S., O’Brien, D., Whitley, N., and S. Howell. 2019. Anthelmintic Resistance on Commercial Sheep Farms in the Southeastern US. Poster session presented at Joint COMBAR- ACSRPC Conference Anthelmintic Resistant in Ruminants: Who Cares?; Page 56, 2019 Aug.

Schoenian. S., 2019. ACSRPC web site provides information to a growing audience. Paper presented at Joint COMBAR-ACSRPC Conference Anthelmintic Resistant in Ruminants: Who Cares?; Page 23, Aug. 27-29; Ghent, Belgium.

Schoenian, S., Semler, J., Gordon, D., O’Brien, D., Bennett, M., and C. Anderson. 2019. Growth and carcass characteristics of short-scrotum, ram, and wether lambs. J. Anim. Sci., 97, Supplement 1, Page 71, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz053.161.

Schoenian, S. O’Brien, D., Whitley, N., Howell. S. 2019. Anthelmintic resistance on commercial sheep farms in the southeastern US. COMBAR-ACSRPC Joint meeting, Belgium. https://c67d09be-a843-414a-a7c0- 9a2912eb10be.filesusr.com/ugd/6ddbcb_5b936c1147554feba6e45f7724afdc78.pdf (page 56).

Shepherd, E.A., S.A. Bowdridge. 2019. Preferential alternative macrophage activation is breed- dependent in sheep when exposed to Haemonchus contortus larvae in vitro. 23^rd Woods Hole Immunoparasitology Meeting, Woods Hole, MA

Terrill, T. H., B. Morning, E. Courson, B. Morris, H. Naumann, N. Whitley and V. Owen. 2019. Screening of Lespedeza germplasm for forage quality and bioactivity. J. Anim. Sci. (Suppl. 3) 97:90. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.186

Weaver, A.R., J.J. Garza, S.A. Bowdridge. 2019. Immune response to various life stages of Haemonchus contortus differentiates resistance among sheep breeds. 23^rd Woods Hole Immunoparasitology Meeting, Woods Hole, MA

Wildeus, S., Schoenian, S., Sponenberg, D.P., Bennet, M.-B., O’Brien, D. 2019. Reproductive organ weights, morphology and sperm reserves in intact and short scrotum post-pubertal male dairy sheep lambs. J. Anim. Sci., Vol. 97, Suppl. 3. 467

Wildeus, S. O’Brien, D. 2019. Performance of landrace hair sheep lambs in forage-based, semi- continuous production system. , J. Anim. Sci., Vol. 97, Suppl. 1. 77-78

Wildeus, S., O’Brien, D. 2019. Sperm motion characteristics of ram semen liquid-stored in a

milk-egg yolk extender at four temperatures. J. Anim. Sci., Vol. 97, Suppl. 1. 78

Wildeus, S. O’Brien, D. 2019. Developing a system for semi-continuous lamb production. Proc.

ARD 19th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 310.

Worku, Mulumebet; Ekwemalor, Kingsley. 2019. PSVI-7 variation in bitter taste receptor genes in three breeds of goats. Journal of Animal Science, 97, Suppl. 3, Page 206, https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz258.424

Fact sheets

O’Brien, D., K. Matthews, N. Whitley, and S. Schoenian. 2019. Using Fecal Egg Counts on Your Farm. Virginia State University/Virginia Cooperative Extension. APSC-166NP.