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W173: Stress Factors of Farm Animals and Their Effects on Performance

Annual/Termination Reports (SAES-422): [04/08/2003] [02/16/2004] [11/24/2004] [10/24/2005] [09/13/2006]

Date of Annual Report: 04/08/2003

Report Information:
  • Annual Meeting Dates: 08/16/02 to 08/17/02
  • Period the Report Covers: 08/2001 to 08/2002

    • Participants:
    Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:
    The meeting began at 8:00 a.m. on August 16th with self-introductions by the meeting participants. Presentations of the W-173 and NCR-131 members were made to apprise participants of the current research and multistate collaborative activities. D. Hamernik and R. Rennells (USDA-CSREES) then made presentations on current USDA activities. At 4:00 the W-173 and NCR-131 groups split to conduct their business meetings. In the W-173 business meeting the previous years minutes were approved, J. Arthington (FL) was named secretary and A. Parkhurst (NE) Chair of W-173 for 2002-2003. A decision was made to meet next year in Omaha. This was followed by a reception and dinner. On August 17th a tour of the new Agricultural Research Complex was conducted at 8:00 a.m. followed by a return to the meeting to conclude presentations. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 pm on August 17th

    Accomplishments:
    Note that the principal reporting investigator and their location is indicated in relation to the stated accomplishment and subsequent impact. However, in almost all cases these are multistate collaborative projects that involve one or more W-173 participants. This is reflected in the List of Publications and Plans for the Coming Year sections that follow the Accomplishments and Impacts.

    Objective I: Identify appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being and
    characterize factors affecting the biology of the stress response

    *Accomplishment: Cornell University (Hillman, Gebremedhin) developed sensitive equipment for accurately measuring heat transfer across hair coats in cattle. Impact:
    Accurate measure of heat transfer will provide us with the information needed to design effective shelters and recommend appropriate husbandry to maximize the well-being and productivity of dairy cows.

    *Accomplishment: The USDA-MARC (Brown-Brandl) and University of Kentucky (Gates) have collaborated with others to evaluate a telemetry system for measuring core body temperature in livestock and poultry Impact: Successful adoption of a body temperature monitoring system for livestock will greatly improve ability to manage livestock during periods of thermal stress
    *Accomplishment: The University of Kentucky (Gates) successfully monitored water consumption by grazing cattle in central Kentucky during warm summer months. Impact: The findings from this research are directly applicable for design of portable seasonal water systems used in rotational grazing of livestock.


    *Accomplishment: The University of Nebraska (Parkhurst, Mader) University of Missouri (Spiers) and USDA-MARC collaborated on studies to define the heat stress threshold. Analysis of a number of data sets indicated the presence of hysteresis that calls into question the meaning of threshold-biologically and management wise.

    *Accomplishment: The University of Kentucky (Gates) successfully monitored water consumption by grazing cattle in central Kentucky during warm summer months. Impact: The findings from this research are directly applicable for design of portable seasonal water systems used in rotational grazing of livestock.


    *Accomplishment: The University of Nebraska (Parkhurst, Mader) University of Missouri (Spiers) and USDA-MARC collaborated on studies to define the heat stress threshold. Analysis of a number of data sets indicated the presence of hysteresis that calls into question the meaning of threshold-biologically and management wise. A number of criteria were identified for further evaluation including the transition threshold, challenge threshold, initial and terminal recovery thresholds. Impact: Results of this work will improve our ability to define the presence or absence of thermal stress in livestock.

    *Accomplishment: The University of Missouri (Spiers) and the University of Arizona (Collier) are collaborating to produce gene expression array data from a variety of tissues in dairy cattle subjected to thermal stress. Impact: Results of this work will identify genes associated with sensitivity to and/or resistance to thermal stress in livestock. These results can then be used to identify cattle that are resistant or sensitive to thermal stress.

    *Accomplishment: The University of Arizona (Collier) has evaluated use of infrared thermography by infrared camera and gun for evaluation of thermal stress in cattle. Impact: Data indicate that an infrared thermography gun is a low cost tool that successfully identifies animals in need of additional cooling. These results can be directly applied to management of dairy cows during periods of thermal stress.

    *Accomplishment: The University of Nebraska (Mader) and USDA-MARC have collaborated to model effects of environmental stressors on thermoregulatory responses and feed intake patterns in beef cattle. Data was utilized from studies conducted in environmental chambers t USDA-MARC. Impact: Results of this research will be directly applicable to management of feedlot cattle during periods of thermal stress.

    1. Kentucky-water estimates in grazing cattle
    2. Missouri-seaweed extract
    3. Missouri-fescue toxicosis
    4. Nebraska-Maeder estimates of heat loss
    5. Indiana and Mississippi-pre-milking
    Objective II: Evaluate management strategies that minimize the detrimental effects
    of animal stress

    *Accomplishment: Cornell University (Hillman,Gebremedhin) in collaboration with the University of Hawaii (Lee) and Mississippi State University (Willard) have developed a new cooling system for lactating dairy cows in free stalls. Results demonstrated improved cooling of cows and cows spent a greater time in the stalls lying down. Impact: A new strategy has been developed for reducing heat stress in cattle housed in free stalls.

    *Accomplishment: Kentucky (Gates) and Iowa (Xin) collaborated to evaluate effects of partial surface wetting to relieve heat stress of poultry. During this research the investigators also developed thermal discomfort index for laying hens subjected to acute thermal stress. Impact: Results of this research are directly applicable to improved management of poultry during periods of thermal stress.

    *Accomplishment: The University of Missouri (Spiers) evaluated use of a seaweed extract to reduce impact of fescue toxicosis during periods of heat stress Impact: The results are potentially useful in management of cattle in areas were fescue toxicosis is a summer management issue.

    Impact Statements:
    1. Impact statements are incorporated into the accomplishment section
    Last Modified: unknown

    Date of Annual Report: 02/16/2004

    Report Information:
  • Annual Meeting Dates: 08/08/03 to 08/09/03
  • Period the Report Covers: 08/2002 to 08/2003

    • Participants:
    Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:
    The meeting began at 8:30 on August 8th with self-introductions by the meeting participants. C. Kaltenbach brought the group up-to-date on the administrative status of the project. D. Hamernick (USDA-CSREES) then made a presentation on current USDA activities. Presentations of the W-173 members were made to apprise participants of the current research and multi-state collaborative activities. At 6:30pm the W-173 business meeting was called to order. The previous years minutes were approved. J. Bicudo (KY) was named secretary and J. Arthington (FL) Chair of W-173 for 2003-2004. A decision was made to meet next year in Orlando. J. Arthington will investigate opportunities to hold the meeting on the Walt Disney property during July 13 and 14 or 20 and 21. On August 9th a tour of the Henry Doorley Zoo was conducted at 8:30. The group met with Douglas Armstrong, DVM, senior veterinarian to discuss the shelter and well-being of the zoo animals. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 pm on August 9th

    Accomplishments:
    Note that the principal participants are indicated in relation to the stated accomplishment and subsequent impact. However, in almost all cases these are multi-state collaborative projects that involve one or more W-173 participants.

    Objective I: Identify appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being and
    characterize factors affecting the biology of the stress response

    *Accomplishment: NE-USDA-MARC Results of a study of relative heat tolerance among cattle of different genetics indicated dark-hided cattle were more stressed than light-hided cattle. Heat stress more than doubled drinking behavior, increased standing, and decreased eating, lying, and agonistic behaviors. Impact: It was found that dark-hided cattle with higher condition scores were more adversely affected by heat stress.

    *Accomplishment: TN Studies showed the free cortisol index can be used as a surrogate marker for plasma free cortisol in the pigs since it correlates well with plasma free cortisol, which is the biologically active component. Impact: The free cortisol index provides a simple, less time consuming assessment of situations resulting in significant changes in plasma total cortisol levels by taking into account shifts in CBG concentration.

    *Accomplishment: NE The bi-logistic model followed the dynamics of the handling process. The predictions for time to reach maximum body temperature were closer to the observed value than either the or hormetic estimates and the prediction of maximum body temperature was better than the bi-logistic and as good as the hormetic estimate. Moreover, the segmented model was robust to different definitions of recovery time. Impact: Results of this work will improve our ability to characterize thermal stress in livestock and enable us to compare breeds, management strategies and to identify cattle that are resistant or sensitive to thermal stress.

    *Accomplishment: AL and KS collaborated on a study designed to evaluate gene expression in various immune and endocrine tissues at 6 and 24 hr after i.p. LPS injection. Tissues were collected at sacrifice and total RNA was later extracted for evaluation utilizing differential display PCR. Differential display procedures are currently in progress. Additionally, KS evaluated expression of toll-like receptors (TLR) and chemokines in cultured porcine jejunal epithelial cells infected with Salmonella serovars. Salmonella infection increased TLR-2 and ?5, as well as CCL-20 and IL-8. Impact: Results suggest the gastrointestinal epithelium is an important regulator of immune cell function.

    *Accomplishment: AZ Heat shock proteins (HSP) were assessed by western blot analysis in semen samples from normal and cryptorchid stallions. HSP?s were not detected in any semen samples indicating that ejaculated sperm do not express HSP?s. Samples to testicular tissue from normal and crytorchid stallions were then assessed for HSP profiles. HSP40 and HSP70 were detected in both normal and retained testes. However, HSP 70 expression levels were 2-fold higher in retained than normal testes tissue. Impact: Results suggest a possible association of HSP70 in sperm from abdominally retained (heated) stallion testes.

    *Accomplishment: MO-USDA Investigated the immunological and physiological responses of young pigs to a live bacterial challenge by determining the acute immune response in pigs challenged with E. coli. Impact: An understanding of the immunological and physiological responses associated with live bacterial challenges is necessary before novel approaches for preventing E. coli outbreaks in swine herds can be effectively implemented.

    *Accomplishment: MO conducted an experiment to determine the effect of successively higher levels of heat challenge on thermal status of cattle. Hysteresis loops for Tcore showed distinct time-of-day differences in response to air temperature change. These loops were different for low and high heat stress periods. Likewise, these loops showed downward shifts during the first week of adaptation, with little change after this time. Impact: These results show that hysteresis loops can be used to characterize core body temperature response of cattle to heat stress in the field. It appears that cattle adapt to heat in this environment by delaying the change in core body temperature with the daily shift in air temperature.


    Objective II: Evaluate management strategies that minimize the detrimental effects
    of animal stress

    *Accomplishment: UF completed additional studies aimed at characterizing the influence of copper nutrition on the health and productivity of beef cattle. Impact: These findings indicate that copper nutrition is an important contributor to early responses to inflammatory signals. Applications for improving copper nutrition will likely increase the effectiveness of vaccines containing adjuvant carriers.

    *Accomplishment: UF completed a transportation stress/feedlot receiving study to investigate the effects of early calf weaning on the stressors associated with weaning and transportation. Impact: These findings indicate that early calf weaning has a significant effect on lessening physiological characteristics associated with the stress of calf weaning. This effect translated into nearly a 25% improvement in feed efficiency during the feedlot receiving and growing period.

    *Accomplishment: NY, MS and HI tested a vaginal temperature logger for dairy cows and determined it can effectively measure body temperature. The logger is comprised of a commercial waterproof temperature logger encased in a specially constructed, soft plastic anchor with 8 fingerlike projections to keep it from being discharged from the vagina. Impact: Taking spot measurements of body temperature with a rectal thermometer cannot be done frequently enough to explore the dynamics of thermoregulation and it disrupts the behavior of the cows. The vaginal temperature logger overcomes these limitations with an easy to use, non-disruptive, low cost, continuous record of body temperature.

    *Accomplishment: NY, HI and MS observed the thermoregulatory responses of heat-stressed dairy cows in a freestall barn in a hot-humid environment. When cows are laying in freestalls, their body temperatures rises under fan cooling. Spray cooling reduces the rate of this rise by one-half. When their body temperature reaches about 39°C, the cows stand up in their stalls. Upon standing cows can cool with fans alone. They cool twice as fast when fans are supplemented with feedline spray. Impact: Heat-stress in dairy cows causes great economic losses to the dairy industry as well as adversely affecting the well-being of cows, where successful management requires an understanding the dynamics thermal responses within a freestall barn.

    *Accomplishment: NY, HI and AZ compared the evaporation rates of black and white heat-stressed dairy cows under simulated direct solar radiation in a hot-dry environment. Black hair coats absorb more solar radiation and are warmer and have higher sweating rates than white hair coats. Impact: Solar radiation imposes a severe thermal load on cows where the impact of black hair coats and high sweating rates must be included in management strategies.

    *Accomplishment: MO-USDA assessed endocrine and tissue responses to 72 h feed deprivation in weaned pigs and also determined the effects of exogenous ghrelin on endocrine, behavioral, feed intake and weight gain responses in pigs that are undergoing the post-weaning transition to a solid diet. Impact: This work on appetite regulation as it relates to the weaning process will be valuable in the search for methods which can be utilized to prevent weigh loss associated with the naturally occurring feed deprivation during this period. Decreasing the time pigs go without feed during the postweaning period will enhance growth and performance, as well as reduce the incidence of early postweaning morbidity and mortality.

    *Accomplishment: MO-USDA determined the effects of an estrogenic compound (Ralgro; R) on maternal and piglet performance and components of the somatotrophic axis. Impact: This work supports theory that prenatal and perinatal treatments can be utilized to enhance pig productivity during the postnatal period.

    *Accomplishment: MO Further evaluation of the effect of fescue toxicosis on cattle performance showed that a dietary seaweed product will produce a temporary reduction in core body temperature during heat stress in both chamber and field environments. A higher level of dietary iodide is not responsible for this reduction. Impact: Seaweed-derived feed additives can be used to reduce heat strain in cattle.

    *Accomplishment: KY showed air temperatures within the trailer during transport were
    significantly higher than the ambient air temperatures, and varied with position in the trailer. The air temperature was lowest at the rear of the trailer, and was significantly higher at the front stall. Impact: Determining the ventilation rate within the trailer will allow for better understanding of the thermal environment horses are subjected to during transport.

    *Accomplishment: KY and IA developed and tested algorithms for determining individual bird feeding statistics and stereotyped pecking behavior from time-series recordings of feed weight. Impact: By scientifically characterizing the feeding behavior of laying hens, baseline information will result that may help better quantify the welfare of birds.

    *Accomplishment: NE-USDA-MARC Heat stress response of cattle to climate variables of temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation have been collected and an algorithm developed to represent animal response in the form of RR. The response was then compared to response of animals in various categories of stress: alert, danger, and emergency. Impact: This tool uses current weather measurements at the feedlot and will assist feedlot operators and cattle producers in management decisions involving heat waves.
    Plans for the Coming Year-W-173 Collaborations (2003-2004)

    Impact Statements:
    1. See accomplishment section for impacts.
    Last Modified: unknown

    Date of Annual Report: 11/24/2004

    Report Information:
  • Annual Meeting Dates: 08/13/04 to 08/14/04
  • Period the Report Covers: 08/2003 to 08/2004

    • Participants:
    Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:
    The meeting was called to order at 8:30 AM on August 13. D. Hamernick (USDA-CSREES Representative) provided handouts and gave an update on CSREES activities in Washington as well as the current USDA-ARS funding situation. C. Kaltenbach ((AZ, W-173 Administrative Advisor) provided the groups administrative report. Specific points of consideration were, 1) outcomes are important within individual station reports, 2) final report is due within 90 d of the annual meeting, 3) W-173 renewal is due 1, January 2006 and the rewrite needs to begin early next year. An explanation of distribution of the multistate project funds was requested. C. Kaltenbach provided an explanation to the group. Individual station reports were provided by participating members (USDA-ARS, IN, MS, NE, TX, FL, KY, and USDA-MARC, KS). The annual business meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM. The 2003-2004 minutes were approved. J. Bicudo was elected in-coming Chair for 2004-2005, but will be unable to fulfill this commitment. S. Eicher agreed to fill this responsibility. The group unanimously agreed with thanks to Susan for offering her service. The group nominated and unanimously agreed to appoint J. Carroll (USDA-ARS, Lubbock) as incoming secretary (2004-2005). It was determined that meeting in conjunction with the ASAS/ADSA annual meeting in 2005 would be logical (Cincinnati; July 24-28). R. Gates (KY) agreed to provide a tour of the University of KY research facilities. The meeting would begin in the morning of Friday, July 22 in Cincinnati. A tour of the University of KY research facilities will be provided on Saturday (July 23). Final business would continue back in Cincinnati on Sunday morning (July 24), finishing prior to the start of the ASAS/ADSA annual meeting. S. Eicher and R. Gates will collaborate together to create the final agenda, meeting location, and travel arrangements to the University of KY facilities. The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 PM (August 13).

    Accomplishments:
    Accomplishments and Impacts: Note that the principal participants are indicated in relation to the stated accomplishment and subsequent impact. However, in almost all cases these are multistate collaborative projects that involve one or more W-173 participants. This is reflected in the List of Publications and Plans for the Coming Year sections that follow the Accomplishments and Impacts.

    Objective I: Identify appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being and characterize factors affecting the biology of the stress response

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Skin biopsies from Brown Swiss, Holstein and Angus cattle were sampled monthly. Extracted RNA was isolated for real time PCR analysis of heat shock proteins as well as microarray analysis. Impact: This study will begin to identify genes in skin associated with adaptation to seasonal environmental changes

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Mammary collagen gel cultures were utilized to evaluate the effect of heat shock on Heat Shock Protein 70 gene expression. Impact: This study defined the time interval for evaluation of heat shock response in bovine mammary tissue in vitro and would apply to similar time periods in vivo.

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Effects of ambient temperature and solar radiation on total evaporative water loss in cattle were evaluated. Impact: Closed-chamber total evaporative water loss TEWL provides a novel method to determine sweating rate in dairy cattle

    Accomplishment: (AZ) The effects of bST on TEWL in lactating vs non-lactating heifers was evaluated. Impact: These results demonstrate that cows increase their heat dissipation in order to cope with the increased heat load from both milk production and increased environmental heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-MARC) Risk factors for heat stress in feedlot heifers was evaluated. Impact: This information can provide a model of risk assessment.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, IN) Prenatal stress, induced either artificially with injections of ACTH, or via rough handling was evaluated. Impact: These results will help researches to determine which endocrine responses are useful indicators of stress.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, IN) Effects of heat stress on grower pigs was evaluated. Impact: Immune pathogen recognition may be altered during heat stress in swine.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, IN and NE) Investigation of lameness in dairy cattle has been completed. Impact: This study ruled out several measures as potential early indicators of lameness.

    Accomplishment: (KY) Three different techniques for measuring core body temperature (venal, rectal and gut) were developed. Impact: Telemetric methods of measuring core body temperature in horses will enable in vivo measurement without the infection risks.

    Accomplishment: (KY) Stress of short duration transport (< 4 h) in horses was studied. Impact: Significant physiological stress responses occur during transport earlier than suggested by previous studies.

    Accomplishment: (KY) Travel speed, presence of animals, and vent configuration in horse trailers was evaluated. Impact: These data support improvements in horse trailer design.

    Accomplishment: (KY) Development of values of sensible and latent heat production for modern genetics pullets and layers before, during and after molting. Impact: These data are useful in determining supplemental heat and ventilation requirements for layer houses during molting.

    Accomplishment: (KY, USDA-MARC, IA) A review of swine heat production has been completed. Impact: Current information on heat production is not sufficient for new swine genetics.

    Accomplishment: (MS) Studies investigating the role of adrenal progesterone production during the estrous cycle and early/late pregnancy have been completed. Impact: Improved understanding of the adrenal gland in reproductive processes has been discovered.

    Accomplishment: (MS, USDA-ARS, IN) Studies on the use of thermography for early detection of lameness in dairy cattle have been initiated. Impact: Early screening and detection of lameness in dairy cattle will increase performance and decrease illness.

    Accomplishments: (NY, USDA-MARC, HI) The impact of genotype on heat tolerance of cattle to solar radiation was evaluated. Impact: The effects of direct sunlight on body temperature, respiration rate, feeding and thermoregulatory behaviors are being identified.

    Accomplishments: (TX and KY) Long distance transportation of lambs and horses was evaluated. Impact: The proposed set of highly restrictive EU regulations on transport of lambs and horses are largely counterproductive for trips 22 hours in length.

    Accomplishments: (KY and TX) Strategies are being evaluated that minimize effects of transport stress on horses. Impact: Fundamental modeling of air circulation in trailers has been completed.

    Accomplishments: (TN and USDA-ARS-TX) The relationship of the free cortisol index in pigs in response to an ACTH challenge was investigated. Impact: These experiments confirm that the free cortisol index is a simple and reliable means to estimate the amount of cortisol that is biologically active in swine.

    Accomplishments: (TN and CA) An equine CBG (eCBG) assay is being established. Impact: These data will assist researchers in measuring stress in equine.

    Accomplishments: (AL and KS) Real time PCR was conducted to provide evidence of IL-6 expression in mesenteric lymph nodes of pigs challenged with LPS. Impact: These results indicate regulation of novel genes in response to endotoxemia.

    Accomplishments: (NE) Effects of wind speed and solar radiation on livestock stress was evaluated. Impact: These data assist management strategies to mitigate heat stress effects on livestock.

    Accomplishments: (NE) Investigation of ambient temperatures and humidity on breeding cows was completed. Impact: Temperature can reduce 30 and 60d pregnancy rates in beef cows that are pasture bred.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Effects of grass seed ergovaline on animal stress was evaluated in rats. Impact: These results indicate that feed intake and Tc responses associated with fescue toxicosis are separate event and additional compounds, other than ergovaline, may contribute to fescue toxicosis.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Investigation of differentially-expressed genes in rat liver resulting from intake endophyte-infected tall fescue seed was conducted. Impact: Genes are being identified that regulate intake of ergovaline, and could explain some problems associated with fescue toxicosis. Accomplishment: (MO) The present study determined if rats fed a diet containing infected fescue toxins induced CYP3A4. Impact: Evidence is provided that shows an increase in enzyme systems that could metabolize toxins associated with fescue toxicosis following short-term exposure to toxic conditions.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Two studies were conducted to determine a dose-response relationship for a diet containing endophyte-infected tall fescue and identify the time of administration that produces the greatest response. Impact: Feed intake has been determined as an important determinant of the fescue toxicosis.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Investigation of a diet containing ground infected fescue seed has been completed. Impact: Core temperature response and feed intake are independent of each other, with feed intake being more sensitive. Ground fescue seed elicits a robust temperature response, once the large effect on feed intake is overcome.

    Accomplishment: (MO) A study was conducted to characterize the gene expression of white blood cells, liver and muscle tissue in dairy cows undergoing the initial transition from thermoneutral to heat stress conditions. Impact: These data suggest that rectal temperature is superior to both single and combined indicators of thermal status in predicting dairy cow production.

    Accomplishment: (MO) A study was conducted to characterize the gene expression of white blood cells, liver and muscle in dairy cows experiencing a chronic period of heat stress conditions. Impact: These data assist in determining the impact of heat stress on dairy cow genomics, using liver, muscle, and white blood cells.

    Objective II: Evaluate management strategies that minimize the detrimental effects of animal stress

    Accomplishment: (FL) Two studies have been completed characterizing the influence of dietary sulfur on selenium metabolism in cattle. Impact: These findings indicate that dietary sulfur is an important contributor to selenium metabolism in cattle.

    Accomplishment: (FL) Embryo-derived Angus calves from two environments (tropically adapted and temperate) were evaluated. Impact: Current data suggest that both Angus genotypes respond similarly to the stressors associated with the tropical / sub-tropical environment of south Florida.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-MARC) A system was developed using radio frequency identification technology to monitor feeding behavior in feedlot cattle. Impact: These data may be used to determine feeding behavior of a group of animals.

    Accomplishment: (NE) A study was performed to examine the effects of free-stall spray cooling on reducing heat stress of lactating dairy cows. Impact: These results illustrate the importance of controlling for variation among days as well as within cows in order to detect difference in average body temperatures.

    Accomplishment: (UADA-ARS, IN, MS) An initial study of the movement of Salmonella sp. through juvenile pigs has been completed. Impact: The use of luciferacea labeled Salmonella was demonstrated to be a useful tool for future research to determine where Salmonella resides in swine.

    Accomplishment: (KY) A 10.5:1 scale model of the 4-horse trailer was fabricated and used in flow visualization studies. Impact: Experimental modifications to the scale model can be tested for design modifications to reduce thermal stress during transport, without the cost of full-scale testing

    Accomplishment: (MS, USDA-ARS, IN) An experimental in vivo model has been developed which addresses the time-course and pathogenesis of Salmonella in the neonatal pig. Impact: This research will assist in the development of more sensitive screening technologies pre-harvest to prevent post-harvest food safety problems.

    Accomplishment: (MS, NY, HI, NE) Studies have been completed to evaluate methods for free stall cooling in dairy cattle. Impact: The dynamics of heat stress in dairy cattle as related to different cooling regimes may lead to more efficient cooling methods and thus increased production performance (milk and reproduction) during summer heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (NY, HI, MS) A collaborative project was conducted to evaluate wetting/spraying of dairy cows on measures of stress and performance. Impact: These studies can provide management strategies to help reduce economic loss and to improve the well-being of cows exposed to heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (NY, USDA-MARC, HI) investigation of the efficacy of shade during hot summer weather for beef cattle in feedlots has been completed. Impact: Modeling energy balance of hair coat and airflow field is necessary gain further insight into how heat stress can be minimized in commercial housing.

    Accomplishment: (CO) An experiment was completed investigating the effect of dietary Cu on disease resistance of newly received calves. Impact: The effects of Cu on the animals ability to respond immunologically are variable and depend on the class of immune cell being investigated, the type of antigen administered, as well as the concentration of supplemental Cu.

    Accomplishment: (TX) Studies have been completed evaluating the efficacy of feeding Ascophyllum Nodosum transport stress. Impact: Although seaweed did show promise in mitigating dehydration and temperature stress, the strong suppressive effect on humoral immunity suggests that the feeding of A. Nodosum needs to be further researched.

    Impact Statements:
    1. See Accomplishments
    Last Modified: unknown

    Date of Annual Report: 10/24/2005

    Report Information:
  • Annual Meeting Dates: 07/22/05 to 07/24/05
  • Period the Report Covers: 07/2004 to 07/2005

    • Participants:
    Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:
    The W-173 Regional Meeting was called to order by the Chair, Susan Eicher (IN), at 8:25 a.m. on July 22, 2005 in Conference Room 140 of the Cincinnati Convention Center, Cincinnati, OH. Susan welcomed all the regional project participants to Cincinnati and briefly outlined the agenda of the meeting.

    The official meeting convened at 8:30 a.m. with the self-introductions of all participants, followed by reports from Deb Hamernick, USDA/CSREES Representative, and Colin Kaltenbach, W-173 Administrative Advisor. Deb presented a packet of handouts to the group and discussed several issues covered in the handouts including changes in personnel within the USDA, an update on competitive grants, the livestock genome sequencing projects, changes associated with National Program Leaders and Program Specialist and NRI National Program Leaders and Program Specialists, and issues pertaining to the CSREES Budget projection for FY06. There was a brief discussion within the group regarding the potential cuts which could affect HATCH funds and the impact on scientific research groups such as the W-173 group. Following Debs presentation, Colin addressed the group to discuss renewal of the W-173 Regional Project. Colin asked the group to be thinking about revision of the objectives, and volunteers for writing the new project. Further discussion pertaining to writing the new W-173 Regional Project was scheduled for Sunday, July 24, 2005.

    From 9:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., individual station reports were presented to the group. The floor was open for questions and discussion following the presentation of each station report. Thirteen individual station reports were presented to the group. At 5:30 p.m., the meeting was adjourned for the day.

    On Saturday, July, 23, 2005, the group traveled to Lexington, Kentucky via a van provided by Rich Gates (KY) for a tour of the Woodford Animal Research Center, and Keenland, Engineering facilities and Equine facilities at the University of Kentucky, Lexington. On Sunday, July 24, 2005, Chair, Susan Eicher (IN), reconvened the meeting at 8:25 a.m. in Conference Room 140 of the Cincinnati Convention Center, Cincinnati, OH. The first order of business was to the revise the objectives for the W-173 Regional Project. Following input and discussion from participating members, the following three objectives were agreed upon by the group:

    1. Identify strategies for developing and monitoring appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being. 2. Assessing genetic components, including genomics and proteomics, of animal stress and well-being. 3. Develop alternative management practices to reduce stress and improve animal well-being and performance.

    Following the development of the new project objectives, Colin as the group for names of potential reviewers. The following names were proposed by the group: Bob Wetteman, Pete Hansen, Dale Balsi, and Jeremy Maerchant Forde.

    The next order of business was to identify individuals willing to participate in the writing of the new W-173 Regional Project. The following four individuals graciously volunteered for the tasks identified:

    1. Don Spiers volunteered to be the initial compiler of information for Objective 1. 2. Bob Collier volunteered to be the initial compiler of information for Objective 2. 3. Richard Gates volunteered to be the initial compiler of information for Objective 3. 4. John Arthington volunteered to collect all of the information from each group and to write the overall project.

    (Note: Rich requested that all e-mails to him have a subject line of: W-173 rewrite information. Additionally, everyone should utilize an MSWord document format for information pertaining to the new W-173 Regional Project.)

    The following deadlines were established for the project writing process:

    September 1, 2005: All information needs to be to Don, Bob and Rich from the committee members.

    Scott Willard volunteered to summarize the current project.

    October 15, 2005: Individual objective reports for future plans for the next five years need to be sent to the John Arthington.

    November 15, 2005: John will send out overall project rewrite to committee for review.

    December 15, 2005: The final project rewrite needs to be to Colin by this date.

    Additional information associated with the W-173 Regional Project rewrite: New NIMSS project number for W-173: W_TEMP1622: Stress Factors of Farm Animals and Their Effects on Performance. The web address for the NIMMS System is www.lgu.umd.edu

    Following the business associated with writing the new W-173 Regional Project, there was a breakout session from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. for the group to discuss and establish collaborations for the upcoming year. Identified collaborations within the group for the upcoming year are as follows:

    Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX): Three collaborative studies with Arthington (FL) to evaluate the effect of early weaning of beef calves on subsequent development of the stress axis, to develop a model of acute versus chronic immune challenges in beef steers, and the use of citrus pulp as an antimicrobial to enhance performance in beef cattle. Two collaborative studies with Willard (MS) to evaluate the feasibility of using thermography to identify sick animals and the use of temperament scores to predict productivity in steers. Collaboration with Parkhurst (NE) to develop statistical models to fit endocrine data associated with appetite regulation in pigs. Kattesh (TN): Collaboration with Parkhurst (NE) to determine how to design studies to evaluate the genetic regulation of CBG. Kattesh will also share data with Parkhurst for the development of dynamic models for free cortisol index and free cortisol.

    Gates (KY): Collaborative studies with scientists from Iowa State and the USDA-ARS Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, NE for continued development of appropriate methods for modeling animals in their environments.

    Minton (KS): Collaboration with Eicher (USDA-ARS, IN) to evaluate the impact of transportation on subsequent regulation of the immune system in domestic animals, specifically the Toll-like receptors in whole blood and intestine. A collaborative effort with Jim Sartin (AL) to evaluate gene expression via microarray technology in the pig hypothalamus following a lipopolysaccharide challenge LPS.

    Lee (HI): Collaborative study with Hillman (NY) to evaluate hair coat and its interaction with the environment.

    Hillman (NY): Collaborative study with Willard (MS) to measure reflectance, absorptance, and transmittance in Holstein, Jersey and Gir hair coat samples. Collaborative study with Lee (HI) to track body temperature and behavior of dairy cattle on pastures with shade screens available. A multi-station study with scientists from HI, NE, and the USDA-ARS Meat Animal Research Center to evaluate the dynamic responses of lying dairy cows and feed lot heifers. Collaborative studies with scientists from KY, MO to evaluate hair coat properties of summer cows exposed to Fescue Toxicosis.

    Parkhurst (NE): Collaborations with Arthington (FL) and Eicher (USDA-ARS, IN) on compartmental modeling. Collaborations with Spiers (MO) and Collier (AZ) on developing statistical modeling for evaluating cattle body temperatures.

    Collier (AZ): Collaboration with Spiers (MO) focused on re-evaluation of the THI formulas in cattle. Collaboration with Arthington (FL) to evaluate gene expression within mammary tissue of Romosinuano cattle in response to thermal stress.

    Spiers (MO): Collaborative work with scientists from FL in the environmental chambers at MO to evaluate the Romosinuano breed and to utilize microarray technology to evaluate the differences in gene expression between heat resistant and non-resistant animals. Development of an acute immune challenge model with Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) which could be used to test animals with fescue challenge and heat stress. Collaboration with Kattesh (TN) on the expression and regulation of CBG in rats experiencing fescue toxicosis. Collaboration with Gates (KY) to continue testing of devices which can be utilized for remote data collection.

    Willard (MS): Collaboration with Lay (USDA-ARS, IN) to develop novel models for monitoring/tracking salmonella in swine. Collaboration with Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) and Welsh (TX) to assess the relationships among temperament, measures of stress, and production performance in beef cattle. Collaboration with Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) to investigate the potential use of thermography images to identify swine experiencing an immune challenge. Collaborations with Hillman (NY) and Lee (HI) to evaluate cooling strategies, behavior and measures of thermal stress in dairy cattle.

    Cheng (USDA-ARS, IN) Collaborations with scientist from Maryland University, University of California-Davis, and Purdue University on genetic selection of chickens, beak trimming and molting of laying hens.

    At 11:15 a.m. the group began discussion of new business items. The following actions were approved by the group:

    1. Jeff Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) and Chin Lee (HI) will serve as Co-Chairs for the W-173 Regional Project Meeting next year which will be held August 4, 5, and 6, 2006. The meeting will be hosted by Chin Lee in Oahu, Hawaii. 2. Don Lay (USDA-ARS, IN) was nominated as the incoming secretary for the W-173 Regional Project. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously be the group.

    The meeting adjourned at 11:25 a.m. on Sunday, July 24, 2005.

    Submitted by:

    Jeffery A. Carroll W-173 Regional Project Secretary

    Accomplishments:
    Objective 1: Identify appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being and characterize factors affecting the biology of the stress response.

    Accomplishment: (HI, NE, and NY) A nonlinear model to characterize the thermoregulatory responses of lying heat stressed dairy cows was developed. Impact: The model provides insight into how the thermoregulatory responses of the sprayed cows differ from the cows that were not sprayed.

    Accomplishment: (NE) Tympanic, vaginal, and ruminal temperatures were all found to be acceptable measures of BT in free-roaming cattle, however ruminal temperatures would over estimate core BT. Impact: Cattle consuming diets with greater ME are likely to have greater core BT, which will likely influence there susceptibility to health and climatic heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (NE) Ten years of calving records showed that temperature and THI can reduce 30 and 60 day PR in beef cows that are pasture bred, particularly during years of above average temperature. Impact: Cattle producers using a breeding season of 60 days or less may need to consider influences of environmental conditions on reproductive processes.

    Accomplishment (AZ) Sweating rate in cattle is influenced by rbST and suggests GH and PRL have important roles in the regulation of physiological parameters related to heat stress. These data indicated that rbST does not increase stress load in dairy cattle under semi-arid conditions. Impact: There is no evidence that use of bST to enhance milk yield in cattle should be suspended during periods of heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (AZ) It is apparent that non-lactating heifers are more heat tolerant than lactating cows and that during period of the day when heat stress is maximized, there were no differences between parities associated with adaptation to season or rbST supplementation. Impact: Because serum PRL levels did change with adaptation to environment and it may be an important indicator in adaptation to heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Several parameters of the cellular response to thermal stress were evaluated during this study using the BMEC collagen gel culture system, microarray analysis, and quantitative PCR. Seventeen of the 19 demonstrated a consistent trend in expression pattern between the two technologies. Impact: These results provided some confirmation of the expression profiles revealed by the microarray hybridization.

    Accomplishment: (MO and AZ) Work continues between AZ and MO on an environmental physiology book and resource manual for workers in environmental physiology entitled THERMAL BIOLOGY OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS. Impact: Once completed in late 2006, this will be the most comprehensive compilation of research to date in this area.

    Accomplishment: (ARS-IN, AL) Both TLR2 and TLR4 RNA expression was greater in the lung tissues, but not blood or hypothalamus of heat stressed pigs by 12 and 24 h. Impact: Altered pathogen recognition during heat stress may lead to disease, adding an additional reason to control acute heat stress in swine.

    Accomplishment: (IN-ARS) Rough handling of sows caused their offspring to have lower free cortisol and lower peripheral blood mononuclear cells and decreased ano-genital distance in barrows indicating that prenatal stress feminized them. Impact: Prenatal stress influences stress axis, immune cell, and sexual development of offspring and should be avoided.

    Accomplishment: (NY, NE-MARC, HI) A mechanistic coupled heat and mass transfer model using environmental parameters and physical and optical properties of hair and hair coat predicted no difference between breeds for heifers in shade or sunlight at 36°C, but showed that sensible heat gain increases with increasing air temperature, hair thickness, and wind velocity. Impacts: This knowledge may help prevent losses such as the heat wave in Iowa resulting in the loss of 3,750 cattle.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, FL, and OR) A cattle microarray was constructed to study the liver, muscle and skin samples of steers exposed to thermoneutral and heat stress conditions. Impact: These long oligo arrays will be made available to outside researchers early in 2006 (contact Dr. Antoniou at Antonioue@missouri.edu).

    Accomplishment: (MO, AZ, and MI) Liver biopsies of dairy cattle were obtained after one week of thermal neutral and again after two weeks of heat stress. Microarray analysis revealed differential expression of over 50 genes with approximately equal up and down-regulated genes. Impact: Chronic heat stress alters hepatic gene expression which may be important for liver function and adaptation to heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Fescue toxicity with heat stress did not alter testes morphology with ongoing spermatogenesis. Total sperm motility decreased with heat stress and reduced feed intake tended to decrease total sperm motility. Impact: The interaction of fescue toxicosis and heat stress alter male fertility and therefore potentially reproductive performance.

    Accomplishment: (TN and TX ) Porcine CBG levels decreased following ACTH, and increased following dexamethasone administration in an inverse but delayed fashion relative to total cortisol. Impact: These changes were reflected in the free cortisol index which may serve as a more informative measure of adrenal function as well as assessing free cortisol.

    Accomplishment: (MS) Studies investigating the role of adrenal progesterone production during the estrous cycle and early/late pregnancy on reproductive processes are in progress. Impact: Understanding the role of the adrenal gland in reproductive processes may shed new light on ways to modulate the effects of stress on reproductive processes.

    Accomplishment: (MS and USDA-ARS-IN) Thermography (DITI) was shown to be useful as a diagnostic tool to monitor mammary health and lameness in dairy cattle. Impact: Early detection of diseases or physiological anomalies in livestock using DITI may allow earlier treatment or management changes.

    Accomplishment: (MS and TX-ARS) The relationship between beef cattle temperament and production was evaluated using temperament scoring and exit velocity measures in conjunction with thermography, gene expression profiles and measures of production performance. Impact: Establishment of indices of animal temperament in relation to genotype could provide an additional tool for animal selection.

    Accomplishment: (MS and IN-ARS) An in vivo model was developed to address the kinetics and pathogenesis of Salmonella in neonatal pigs. Impact: Real-time imaging and bacterial tracking technologies in swine will lead to a greater understanding of bacterial pathogenesis, ways to target therapeutic interventions, and more sensitive screening technologies to enhance food safety.

    Accomplishment: (HI) A 23kd protein in the CL was found, sequenced and identified as an antioxidant superoxide dismutase and confirmed by western blot. The concentrations of SOD varied with the stage of the estrous cycle. Impact: Further study of SOD and its physiological roles in the CL function under heat stress conditions is needed.

    Accomplishment: (NE-MARC) Respiration rate/panting score was impacted by genotype or color, a history of respiration illness, temperament, and degree of fatness. ADG were also altered by genotype or color, a history of respiration illness, and temperament. Impact: These results illustrate the sensitivity of respiration rate as an indicator of stress. Accomplishment: (NE-MARC) Shade was found to impact the physiological responses in all THI categories, with the largest impacts in the Danger and Emergency categories and lowered respiration rate (RR ) and core temperature during the peak temperature hours. Impact: RR is the most appropriate indicator of thermal stress to monitor. Accomplishment: (NE-MARC) Daytime breaths/min (bpm) were lower for shade (SA) than no shade (NS) and the slope for bpm for NS was greater per C° than for SA. Thresholds for humidity and treatment of SA/NS were at 25 C°. Impact: Linear regression equations were developed for RR including effects of temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation for SA and NS feedlot pens.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Core temperature response and feed intake are independent of each other, with feed intake being more sensitive to whole versus ground fescue seed. Ground fescue seed elicits a robust temperature response, once the large effect on feed intake is overcome. Impact: Improved management for fescue toxicity may result from this research.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Although intake of rats fed an endophyte-infected diet are similar to their pair-fed counterparts under thermoneutral and heat stress conditions, the utilization of the food and corresponding thermoregulatory ability are very different. Impact: This information may be transferable to cattle with fescue toxicity.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Rats were fed endophyte positive diets delivering low, medium, or high ergovaline levels for 7 days at 21°C and 7 days at 31°C. Impact: The results indicate that feed intake and Tc responses associated with fescue toxicosis are separate events.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Rats fed endophyte-infected diets under thermoneutral condition, with short-term exposure to the toxins, produced physiological and genomic changes. Impact: This research provides evidence regarding sites of toxin action.

    Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Differentially expressed genes were identified in mice fed endophyte-infected fescue seeds. Mice exposed to heat stress alone increased activity of genes involved in general cellular stress responses, glucose utilization, and synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Impact: Changes in gene expression could explain some of the reproductive abnormalities and increased number of genes involved in oxidative stress response suggest that long term heat stress induces a general stress response.

    Objective 2: Develop systems or methods to overcome the adverse effect of climatic and management stressors and their interaction on the growth and lactation, reproduction, and health of cattle, sheep, and swine.

    Accomplishment: (NE-MARC) A new four chamber calorimetry system was designed and constructed. Impact: Temperature control was excellent but humidity control, while constant, was unable to reach setpoint conditionsatory.

    Accomplishment: (NE-MARC) An existing building was modified to provide equivalent penning of animals both with and without shade. In addition to the shade factor, pond ash was used on the 50% of the surface on ½ of the pens having shade or no shade. Impact: There appears to be an impact of shade on summer performance but not winter.

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Surface temperature and respiration rate at 80 ° was higher for Advanced Dairy System Fan plus Misters Shade Tracker compared to Korral Kool for both primiparous and multiparous cows. Impact: We concluded that KK improved cow comfort over ADS-ST, but this did not result in a milk yield difference. Accomplishment: (IN-ARS) In a winter replication of a lairage study WBC and granulocytes were greater for rested pigs on d 1, but by d 14 CD18 (adhesion molecule) tended to be greater and CD14 (LPS receptor) was greater in the continuous transport pigs. Impact: These results will help producers determine if a lairage is beneficial during long transports of this age of pig.

    Accomplishment: (IN-ARS, NE, FL) Behavioral, endocrine, neuroendocrine, immune and health measures will be used to assess the value of the rubber flooring for 1st and 2nd lactation cows. Impact: This study will determine the benefits and potential risks associated with using rubber mats in confinement dairies.

    Accomplishment: (IN-ARS) Piglet processing practices have been evaluated with behavior, endocrine, and health measures will be used assess best management practices. Impact: This study will determine the best methods and the cumulative effects of these methods.

    Accomplishment: (IN-ARS) Behavioral, endocrine, neuroendocrine, immune and health measures were used to examine improvement of bird well-being through genetic selection, beak trimming, and alternative molting. Impact: Genetic selection can be used to improve animal well-being, and several neurotransmitters could be used as selective indicators.

    Accomplishment: (AL and KS) Three mesenteric lymph node gene products, identified by microarry and verified by real-time PCR, were upregulated at 6 h post-LPS, and one gene was upregulated at 24 h. Impact: Novel gene products associated with LPS-stimulated immunoregulation in pig mesenteric lymph node have been identified.

    Accomplishment: (KY) Three temperature-sensing techniques were developed and compared for use in horses; venal blood temperature, gastro-intestinal temperature from an active telemetry sensor administered nasally (GT), and rectal temperature. Impact: The telemetry system used to acquire GT is a viable method to determine core body temperature. Accomplishment: (KY) Two algorithms, termed AL1 and AL2 were capable of predicting chick time at feeder with good agreement with observed video recordings and discriminated eating at the feeder from stereotyped pecking. Impact: Researchers using this methodology are freed from using video analysis. Accomplishments: (KY) THI was in Danger or Alert category in 33 of 45 trips in horse trailers. A scale model wind tunnel confirmed that air enters the back of a trailer and that horse presence significantly alters the flow field. Impact: This information can be used to create horse trailers with adequate ventilation.

    Accomplishment: (NY, HI, MS) Behavior, vaginal temperatures with spray cooling located away from the feed line on the other side of the barn and production data were collected. Impacts: Continuous monitoring of the body temperature and behavior of cattle can be used for better management in feed lots to reduce the $900 million annual economic loss.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Market hogs from a temperate harvest group had heavier hot carcass weights, greater loin muscle depths, greater external fat depth than hogs from a cold stress group. Impact: This research will determine some environmental influence on meat quality. Accomplishment: (MO, AR, and OR) Treatment with a yeast cell-wall extract reduced increased hyperthermia under heat stress conditions by more than 50%, with the level being maintained for the duration of exposure to heat stress. Impact: Mechanism(s) of action and treatment routines need to be determined. Accomplishment: (MS, NY, HI) Novel methods for free stall cooling in dairy cattle changed cow activity patterns in relation to cooling systems, and addressed factors related to measures of heat stress in dairy cattle and the impact of spray-fan cooling paradigms on cow heat load and heat dissipation. Impact: Knowing the dynamics of heat stress and cooling regimes in dairy cattle can be used for improved cooling and increased production during heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (HI) The most effective cooling system for dairy cattle was fans and misters. Vaccinated dams had higher serum and colostrum IgG and IgM. IgG and IgM increased up to the third lactation and plateau for subsequent lactations, but older cows transferred less IgG and IgM to their colostrum but their calf Ig concentrations were not different. The calves from the non-vaccinated herd grew faster. We observed higher respiration rates in the vaccinated groups calves where shade for the calves was minimal. Impact: In the sub-tropics, the most efficient manner to cool cows was the use of fans and misters. Calf housing and orientation may be important to ensure maximum performance.

    Accomplishment: (FL) Early-weaned, but not pre-weaned or creep fed calves, had greater feed efficiency compared to control calves, which appears to be related to a decrease pro-inflammatory response following transport and feedlot entry. Impact: Early calf weaning may improve stress tolerance in beef calves, and thus decrease illness and improve performance.

    Impact Statements:
    1. See Accomplishments Section
    Last Modified: unknown

    Date of Annual Report: 09/13/2006

    Report Information:
  • Annual Meeting Dates: 08/04/06 to 08/06/06
  • Period the Report Covers: 08/2005 to 08/2006

    • Participants:
    Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting:
    The meeting was called to order by Jeff Carroll (TX) at 8:00 a.m. on August 4th, 2006 in the conference room of the Radisson Waikiki, in Honolulu, HI. Jeff Carroll welcomed all the regional project participants to Hawaii and briefly outlined the agenda of the meeting and arrangements that had been made for lunch and dinner during the meeting. Chin Lee was recognized for organizing the meeting and the educational tour to the marine research station. Twenty-one regional project scientists were present representing, 14 states, 3 federal labs, 2 administrative units and 1 international laboratory. The official meeting convened at 8:00 a.m. with the introduction of all personnel. The remainder of the day was devoted to individual station reports and discussion. In total 19 station reports were delivered. The reports ended at 4:30. The next day at 8 am the group met to board a bus that took them to the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. The group toured the island and its facilities. At the end of the tour the group met with researchers that presented their projects.

    At 8 am, on August 6th the Business meeting was called to order at the Radisson, Waikiki. The following items and actions were taken:

    1) Jeff Carroll led the group in a moment of silence to remember Don Johnson, Colorado State University and former W-173 member who died unexpectedly.

    2) Colin Kaltenbach addressed the group and indicated that the final report for the group would be due within 60 days.

    3) John Arthington agreed to lead on writing the report with the help of Don Lay. Each member of the group was asked to submit a one-page document of their Accomplishments and Impact.

    4) Deb Hamernik then addressed the group and gave an update of the changes in DC. She discussed the changes in the NRI programs and application processes. CSREES budget information was discussed. She lead further discussions on the USDA Strategic Plan, and the importance of writing clear objectives, approach and non-technical summaries for Hatch Projects. She also informed the group of issues in the animal science area of which we should be aware.

    5) Don Spiers polled the group as to their interest in attending an International Stress meeting to be held in Budapest in 2007.

    6) Discussion was held as to the best format for our meeting. In particular, the question was raised as to whether we should have half days for presentations and the remainder for discussion. No decisions were made at this time.

    7) Nominations were taken for secretary and chair. Terry Engle was nominated and approved unanimously to act as secretary for 2006-2007. Don Lay was nominated and approved unanimously to act as chair for 2006-2007.

    Next years meeting location was discussed. Options were discussed as to whether the meeting should be in conjunction with the International Society of Applied Ethology (ISAE) meeting, the American Society of Animal Science meeting or to meet with Bob Godfrey's group and possibly the S1020 regional project that specializes in heat stress research. The group voted to meet Bob Godfreys Heat Stress Group at the University of St. Croix. Don Lay will contact Bob and make arrangements. The proposed dates were August 3-5th. If this location did not work out, then the second choice that was approved by the group was to meet with the ISAE at the international meeting in Merida, Mexico. The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 am. Respectfully submitted, Donald C. Lay Jr. Secretary, W-173

    Accomplishments:
    Accomplishments and Impacts: Note that the principal participants are indicated in relation to the stated accomplishment and subsequent impact. However, in almost all cases these are multistate collaborative projects that involve one or more W-173 participants. This is reflected in the List of Publications and Planned Collaborations for the Coming Year sections that follow the Accomplishments and Impacts.

    Objective I: Identify appropriate measures of animal stress and well-being and characterize factors affecting the biology of the stress response

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Production parameters and glucose homeostatic variables were evaluated in rbST-treated lactating dairy cattle during short-term heat stress (HS) or in pair fed animals (UF). Impact: The is the first study which indicates heat stressed cattle might increase their oxidation of glucose and reduce oxidation of fatty acids.

    Accomplishment: (AZ and NE) The relationship between sweating rate and surface temperature in Holstein Cattle during thermal stress in winter and summer was evaluated by plotting the Log of the Sweat Rate against the Surface Temperature. Impact: These data indicate that seasonal differences in sweating rate are apparent in cattle and should be taken into consideration when designing studies.

    Accomplishment: (AZ and FL) Effects of the slick hair gene on skin and rectal temperatures, respiration rate and sweating rate in Holstein cows was evaluated. Impact: This data indicate that a major reason for the difference in heat tolerance in slick cattle lies in their increased sweating ability and may provide some insight into genetic selection opportunities for improving heat tolerance

    Accomplishment: (HI, NY, MS, and NE) Measures of breed differences (Jersey vs. Holstein) under heat stress in free stall settings was investigated. Impact: These data suggest that cows that are more heat tolerant would have finer hair coat, more hairs per sq. centimeter.

    Accomplishment: (MS) Studies investigating the role of adrenal progesterone production during the estrous cycle and early/late pregnancy on reproductive processes are in progress. Impact: Understanding the role of the adrenal gland in reproductive processes may shed new light on ways to alleviate the effects of stress on reproductive processes, or, alternatively, ways in which the adrenal gland might be enlisted to support reproductive function during times of acute or chronic stress to enhance reproductive performance.

    Accomplishment: (MS and USDA-ARS-IN) Studies are addressing the use of thermography to monitor mammary health in dairy cattle, lameness in dairy cattle, thermal signatures of the eye as a correlate to body temperature, and thermal assessments of environmental influences (e.g., heat stress) on production performance. Impact: Early screening and detection of diseases or physiological anomalies in livestock using thermography (DITI) may lead to earlier treatment of diseases or an enhanced understanding of environmental management needs, thus reducing profit losses as a result of production losses due to illness, injury or environmental influences (e.g., heat stress).

    Accomplishment: (MS and USDA-ARS-TX) Relationships between beef cattle temperament and production performance are being evaluated. Studies are addressing the use of temperament scoring and exit velocity measures in conjunction with thermography, gene expression profiles and measures of production performance (ADG, live animal body composition, reproductive function) to establish indices for selection based on temperament in relation to genotype. Impact: Establishment of selection criteria and indices of animal temperament in relation to genotype could provide an additional tool for selection of animals for optimal growth and reproductive performance in relation to their production-management environment.

    Accomplishment: (MS and USDA-ARS-IN) An experimental in vivo model has been developed which addresses the time-course and pathogenesis of Salmonella in the living neonatal pig. This real-time imaging model enables multiple measurements of bacterial invasion in the GI tract of the pig to be monitored over time, and will be used to assess targeted therapies to control Salmonella infections in swine, and understand the interactions between handling or other management-related stressors on bacterial invasiveness. Impact: The development of relevant pre-harvest food safety models, such as real-time imaging and bacterial tracking technologies in swine, will lead to a greater understanding of bacterial pathogenesis, ways to target therapeutic interventions, and more sensitive screening technologies pre-harvest to prevent post-harvest food safety problems.

    Accomplishment: (MARC, NE): Evaluating linear and nonlinear models for the response rate of four breeds of heat stressed feedlot heifers were evaluated. Descriptions of the relationship between respiration and ambient temperature improve when curvature is built-into the model. Impact: A useful statistical model for describing a physiological response to heat stress and parameters that quantify the level of heat stress have been provided.

    Accomplishment: (MARC, NE): Nonlinear crossed random effects models for comparing temperature of eating pigs under different thermal environments was evaluated. This study provides a nonlinear mixed-effects compartmental model to describe the thermoregulatory responses of pigs during an eating event and to compare those responses for three thermal environmental treatments applied in a Latin Square design. Impact: We have characterized the thermoregulatory responses of eating pigs which is very helpful for model building and comparing management practices.

    Accomplishment: (AZ and NE) The sweating rate and surface temperature relationship in Holstein Cattle during thermal stress in winter and summer was evaluated. A segmented linear-plateau model was used to depict the relationship between sweating rate and surface temperature in Holstein cattle and establish the cut-off surface temperature at which the relationship changes. Impact: These data indicate that season and parity affects the relationship between sweating rate and surface temperature in Holstein cattle and should be taken into consideration when designing studies and formulating measures of heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, NE) Heat tolerance of feedlot heifers of different breeds was evaluated throughout two summers using 256 feedlot heifers of four different breeds. Impact: This study helped demonstrate the impact of hot weather on breeds of different hide colors of heifers.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, NE) Risk Factors related to heat stress in feedlot heifers were evaluated over two consecutive summers using 256 feedlot heifers (32/ breed/ year) of four breeds were observed. Impact: Anecdotal evidence suggested that there were animals that were more vulnerable to heat related deaths than other. However, there was little scientific evidence to suggest possible risk factors. This study identified 4 risk factors, and provided a basis for precision animal management.

    Accomplishment: (TN) A preliminary experiment was performed to assess physiological measures of health and well-being in weaned pigs with or without subsequent transport, and to examine the effects of exogenous porcine somatotropin on those measures. Impact: Treatment with somatotropin altered immune and hormonal profiles in weanling pigs, which may improve their overall well-being.

    Accomplishment: (Australia) Studies evaluating a heat stress index for feedlot cattle were conducted. The objectives of this study were to: (i) develop and validate a new heat load index (HLI) for cattle that is based on respiratory dynamics, tympanic temperature, behavior and feed intake of feedlot cattle. (ii) Develop heat load thresholds (using the HLI) for various cattle genotypes, and (iii) Develop an accumulated heat load value that accurately predicts the heat balance of cattle during periods of hot weather. Impact: The HLI is currently being used on the majority of Australian feedlots. A Risk Assessment Program (RAP) has been developed using the HLI as the basis. It will be mandatory for all feedlots to complete the RAP this summer.

    Accomplishment: (IA) A study is being conducted to develop a novel method to determine drinking behavior in ruminant livestock. Reticulum temperature was monitored along with water consumption, water temperature, feeding and environmental parameters in six rumen-cannulated steers. Impact: The ability to remotely monitor individual water consumption using the change in reticulum temperature will provide researchers a tool to monitor individual water consumption within a herd in production studies as well as studies where water consumption is impossible to quantify such as drinking from a stream.

    Accomplishments: (KY) Studies on the development and comparison of bioinstrumentation techniques for core body temperature were conducted. Impact: These results allow for improved data acquisition capabilities, and to develop a core body temperature prediction from these readings, as influenced by external environment. Accomplishments: (KY) Studies investigating the dynamics of doppler ultrasound measures for heifers fed toxic tall fescue seed were conducted. Doppler and B-Mode ultrasonography were used to compare blood flow characteristics between beef heifers fed mixtures of alfalfa hay, soybean hulls, and tall fescue seed that were either infected or non-infected with the Neotyphodium endophyte. Impact: These results confirm the sensitivity that blood flow characteristics of cattle have to ergot alkaloids.

    Accomplishment: (NY, MS, and HI) The impact of solar load between 800 and 1000 watts/m2 on the thermoregulatory responses of three breeds of diary cows was investigated. The breeds represented four hair coat colors: black (Holstein), white (Holstein), tan (Jersey) and mixed (Gir-Holstein F1 cross). Impact: The heat wave in California this past summer was devastating to the dairy industry. An estimated 25,000 dairy cows died because of heat stress since July 14, 2006. This loss is equivalent to $1,500 to $2,500 per head or between 37.5 to 62.5 million dollars. A better understanding thermal responses related to dairy breeds may improve animal well-being and performance.

    Accomplishment: (MO) A feeding trial was performed to further examine which ergot alkaloid found in endophyte-infected fescue is involved in the reduction in feed intake typically seen in our rat studies. Impact: Identification of the toxin(s) that contribute to fescue toxicosis-induced reduction in feed intake will allow researchers to target specific treatments in the future to reduce this part of the problem.

    Accomplishment: (MO, KY) Previous rat feeding trials have indicated that feed intake is very sensitive to ergovaline (EV) concentrations in the diet. Rats were tested to determine threshold level of EV needed to reduce feed intake. Impact: Identification of a threshold level of EV in the diet will allow producers to know the lower limit of exposure that might affect production.

    Accomplishment: (MO, KY) Most studies of heat stress and/or fescue toxicosis are conducted under short-term, controlled or long-term, field situations. This study will combine both situations by utilizing the controlled conditions in the Brody Environmental Center and the summer field environment under fescue toxicosis and non-fescue toxicosis conditions. Impact: The results of this study will provide researchers with a clearer understanding of long-term impact of heat stress and fescue toxicosis on cattle performance.

    Accomplishment: (MO, FL, TX) Angus (heat intolerant) and Romosinuano (heat tolerant) steers (both Bos taurus) were tested under long-term heat stress conditions in the Brody Environmental Center to determine differences in heat stress response. Impact: Specific physiological mechanisms and genomics changes that impart heat tolerance will be identified for use in future studies.

    Accomplishment: (MO) A study was performed using steers exposed to cycling heat stress to determine reliable changes in core body temperature and feed intake using ground fescue seed administered directly into the rumen while using different doses of ergovaline. Impact: Separation of the feed intake and body temperature responses to fescue toxicosis in cattle will allow for the development of more effective treatments the improve each endpoint.

    Accomplishment: (MO) We have found in rats that fescue toxicants at thermoneutrality down regulate genes associated with antioxidant enzymes, energy metabolism, growth and development, transcriptional activity, apoptotic inhibition, mitochondrial activity, immune function, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, and up regulate genes associated with hepatic cytochrome P450 system. Impact: This is the first step in allowing us to determine if fescue toxicants affect mitochondrial functions such as ATP production, electron transport, hydrogen peroxide production and superoxide generation. This would help us in identifying the specific pathways that are being affected by E+ toxicants under heat stress conditions at genomic level.

    Accomplishment: (MO) A study was performed to investigate the effects of long-term heat stress (31°C), combined with endophyte toxins (E+) on male rat reproductive function. Testes appear morphologically normal, but total sperm motility decreases with heat stress and tended to be less with reduced feed intake. Impact: These studies allow for the determination of the impact of fescue toxicosis on male reproduction, and identify specific pathways that include spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation.

    Accomplishment: (MO) Mice were tested under thermoneutral conditions to determine the impact of fescue toxicosis on hepatic genomic activity. The E+ diet resulted in down regulation of genes involved in the sex-steroid metabolism pathway and genes involved in cholesterol and lipid metabolism. Genes coding for ribosomes and protein synthesis were upregulated by the E+ diet. Impact: Genes identified in the present analysis indicate some of the mechanisms by which fescue toxicosis occurs in animals. Future treatments will target these sites.

    Objective II: Evaluate management strategies that minimize the detrimental effects of animal stress

    Accomplishment: (AZ) Advanced Dairy Systems Shade Tracker fans and Korral Kool coolers were evaluated on lactating heat stressed dairy cattle. Two independent trials were conducted. In each trial, 400 multiparous and 100 primiparous Holstein cows balanced for parity, stage of lactation, and milk yield were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 cooling treatments (Advanced Dairy System fan plus misters  Shade Tracker (ADS-ST) vs. Korral Kool (KK)). Impact: This data indicate that the best cooling system in a semi-arid environment is the reverse chimney cooler built by Korral Kool. The severity of the heat stress plays a major role in the return on investment in this system

    Accomplishment: (CO) The effects of crystalline amino acids, ractopamine, and sodium bicarbonate on physiological pH in swine was investigated. Impact: Crystalline amino acid diets are being utilized in the swine industry to more closely meet the animals amino acid requirements thus decreasing nutrient excretion into the environment.

    Accomplishment: (CO) Effects of trace mineral supplementation, source, and growth implants on immune response of growing and finishing feedlot steers were evaluated using 375 steers. Impact: There are many factors that could potentially affect an animals response to a foreign antigen such as environmental factors, management, and stress. Further research is required to determine the effects of TM supplementation and growth implants on immunity in beef cattle.

    Accomplishment: Studies have previously evaluated novel methods for free stall cooling in dairy cattle (NY, HI, NE and MS). These studies have demonstrated changes in cow activity patterns in relation to cooling system, and addressed factors related to measures of heat stress in dairy cattle and the impact of spray-fan cooling paradigms on cow heat load and heat dissipation. Current studies are addressing the influence of prepartum cooling in dairy cattle on metabolic parameters and subsequent production performance characteristics (MS). Impact: Understanding the dynamics of heat stress in dairy cattle as related to different cooling regimes may lead to more efficient cooling methods and thus increased production performance (milk and reproduction) during summer heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (USDA-ARS, NE) The components of livestock stress were modeled for Precision Animal Management. An individual animals stress level is the summation of stresses from three areas: the environment, animal, and management. A model is being developed to summarize components of each of these three areas to determine the overall stress on the animal. Impact: Precision animal management is a scheme which would involve presorting animals to maximize product quality, minimize cost, and provide maximum animal comfort and well-being. This information will allow for the economic use of shades, or other management strategies to be employed.

    Accomplishment: (Australia) A Risk Assessment Program (RAP) has been developed using the HLI as the measure of heat load on the animal. A threshold at which cattle gain body heat was established. Impact: These data form the basis of the RAP which will be used by all feedlots this summer to assess their risk of heat stress.

    Accomplishment: (Australia) The effectiveness of evaporative cooling of beef cattle housed in confinement was evaluated. Impact: Live export vessels operating out of Australia now have guidelines on the use of water to cool heat stressed cattle.

    Accomplishment: (FL) The impact of age at weaning on measures of stress in both primi- and multiparous cows was investigated. Impact: These findings suggest that early calf weaning may improve stress tolerance in both beef calves and their dams.

    Accomplishment: (IA) The advent of tracking via global positioning system (GPS) and the recent use of differential GPS (DGPS) enabled researchers much improved accuracy (less than 3 meters with some devices) and reliability. Impact: The information gained from the GPS HAWK units will provide a better understanding of cattle behavior and new techniques for acquiring GPS-based data. Ultimately the GPS HAWK unit could lead to a suite of Precision Livestock management tools for cattle producers to continuously monitor herd activity and well being, thereby increasing the productivity and security level of our food production chain.

    Accomplishment: (IA) An experiment is addressing the use of an array of blackglobe weather stations (blackglobe temperature, dry-bulb temperature, relative humidity) transecting a 180-acre grazing study (varying topography) to better describe the movement of cattle with changes in weather patterns, specifically wind speed. Impact: The information gathered from this experiment will help develop relationships between changes in animal behavior (standing versus grazing and the utilization of shade) and changes in environmental parameters.

    Accomplishments: (KY) Studies investigating the enhanced well-being of horses during transport were conducted. Impact: These data contribute to the improved well-being of transported horses. Accomplishment: (TX) Effects of feeding several components of the seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum on transported lambs was evaluated. Impact: Further studies are needed to determine the mechanism by which this minimal amount of salt is causing such physiological impacts. Accomplishment: (TX) The effects of density and water availability on the behavior, physiology, and weight loss of slaughter horses during transport was evaluated. Impact: Providing slaughter horses with on-board water is probably not necessary when the horses are being transported for periods of less than 20 hours. Density had little influence on aggression in groups of horses. Shipping horses at high densities is problematic because there appears to be something about high density that causes horses to lie down and risk being trampled.

    Accomplishment: (TX) Increased ventilation in commercial cattle trailers to decrease shrink, morbidity, and mortality was evaluated. A practical method of reducing heat stress, aerosolized pathogens and environmental contaminants during commercial transportation could prove beneficial to the health and value of cattle. Impact: The preliminary results indicate that increasing ventilation through the use of external air scoops has the potential to improve the health and well-being of cattle during transport. Reducing weight loss by 1% has the potential to save the cattle industry several thousand dollars per load on shrink alone, not including the health benefits. Accomplishment: (MO) Swine studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of three seasonal environments: temperate (TMP), cold stress (CS), and heat stress (HS), two on-farm handling intensities: conventional (CONV) and passive (PAS), two transport stocking densities: tight and loose, and two lairage lengths: 45min and 3h, on digestive tract temperature, pork quality, and blood serum cortisol levels. Impact: During times of heat stress, pigs should be kept in lairage less than 3h to improve animal welfare and lean quality.

    Plans for the Coming Year  Established Collaborations: 1. Terry Mader (NE) will collaborate with John Gaughan (Australia) to study the effects of betain in feedlot cattle. 2. Anne Parkhurst (NE), John Gaughan (Australia), and Bob Collier (AZ) will be studying the effects of ignoring hysteresis in regards to respiration rate, body temperature and sweating rate when studying heat stress. 3. Don Spiers (MO) will be working with Bob Collier (AZ) to finish a textbook on Environmental Physiology in Domestic Animals. In addition, Don Spiers is working with Glenn Aiken (KY) to study fescue toxicosis and heat stress. 4. John Arthington (FL), Jeff Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX), and Don Spiers (MO) will be working together to study cattle breed differences in response to heat stress. 5. Ted Friend (TX) and John Arthington (FL) will work together to study heat stress in cattle transported between Texas and Florida. 6. Bob Collier (AZ) and Ted Friend (TX) will be conducting heat stress audits in dairy cattle. 7. Hank Kattesh (TN) will collaborate with Jeff Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) to study physiological measures of stress in conjunction with behavioral measures. These two researchers in addition to Don Lay (USDA-ARS, IN) will finish their work on prenatal stress in swine. 8. Peter Hillman (NY) and Chin Lee (HI) will be working with Bob Collier (AZ) to study evaporative heat loss in heat-stressed dairy cows. 9. John Arthington (FL) will be collaborating with Jeff Carroll (USDA-ARS, TX) to identify and characterize the effects of early calf weaning on responses to stress. In addition, John Arthington will be working with Susan Eicher (USDA-ARS, IN) to characterize acute phase protein responses and lameness in cattle. 10. Terry Engle (CO) will be collaborating with John Arthington (FL) to evaluate the stress response of Florida raised calves which are transported to Colorado receiving yards. 11. Glen Aiken (KY) will be working with Richard Gates (KY) to study heat stress during transport of cattle and horses. 12. Susan Eicher (USDA-ARS, IN) will be collaborating with Anne Parkhurst (NE) and John Arthington (FL) to determine an early detection method of lameness in dairy cattle. Susan Eicher will also be working with Hank Kattesh (TN) to investigate potential measures of chronic stress in calves by developing an ELISA to measure bovine cortisol-binding globulin.

    Impact Statements:
    1. See accomplishment section.
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