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Rebecca Kyle Poole
Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA

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Journal article
Published: 14 December 2020 in Toxins
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted syndrome common in cattle grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue; however, varying symptomatic responses potentially imply genetic tolerance to the syndrome. It was hypothesized that a subpopulation of animals within a herd would develop tolerance to ergot alkaloid toxicity. Therefore, the goals of this study were to develop selection criteria to identify tolerant and susceptible animals within a herd based on animal performance, and then examine responsive phenotypic and cytokine profiles to fescue toxicosis. Angus cows grazed endophyte-infected tall fescue at two locations for 13 weeks starting in mid-April 2016. Forage measurements were collected to evaluate ergot alkaloid exposure during the study. A post hoc analysis of animal performance was utilized to designate cattle into either tolerant or susceptible groups, and weekly physiological measurements and blood samples were collected to evaluate responses to chronic exposure to endophyte-infected tall fescue. Findings from this study support the proposed fescue toxicosis selection method formulated herein, could accurately distinguish between tolerant and susceptible animals based on the performance parameters in cattle chronically exposed to ergot alkaloids, and provides evidence to warrant additional analysis to examine the impact of ergot alkaloids on immune responsiveness in cattle experiencing fescue toxicosis.

ACS Style

Daniel H. Poole; Kyle J. Mayberry; McKayla Newsome; Rebecca K. Poole; Justine M Galliou; Piush Khanal; Matthew H. Poore; Nick V. L. Serão. Evaluation of Resistance to Fescue Toxicosis in Purebred Angus Cattle Utilizing Animal Performance and Cytokine Response. Toxins 2020, 12, 796 .

AMA Style

Daniel H. Poole, Kyle J. Mayberry, McKayla Newsome, Rebecca K. Poole, Justine M Galliou, Piush Khanal, Matthew H. Poore, Nick V. L. Serão. Evaluation of Resistance to Fescue Toxicosis in Purebred Angus Cattle Utilizing Animal Performance and Cytokine Response. Toxins. 2020; 12 (12):796.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Daniel H. Poole; Kyle J. Mayberry; McKayla Newsome; Rebecca K. Poole; Justine M Galliou; Piush Khanal; Matthew H. Poore; Nick V. L. Serão. 2020. "Evaluation of Resistance to Fescue Toxicosis in Purebred Angus Cattle Utilizing Animal Performance and Cytokine Response." Toxins 12, no. 12: 796.

Journal article
Published: 18 May 2020 in Theriogenology
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The objective was to evaluate the effect of service sire on pregnancy results during different periods of embryonic and fetal development. Angus cows (n = 658) were timed artificially inseminated (TAI) on day 0 after synchronization of estrus using one of eight Angus sires. Estrus expression prior to TAI was evaluated using estrus breeding indicators. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 24 and 31 for quantification of circulating pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG). Pregnancy was diagnosed at day 24 based on blood-based test, and on days 31 and 60 by transrectal ultrasonography to determine early embryonic mortality (EEM; between days 24 and 31) and late embryonic/early fetal mortality (LEM; between days 31 and 60). Sires were retrospectively classified according to the amount of pregnancy loss in each evaluated interval. Overall EEM was 5.54%, with values ranging from 1.8 to 11.7% among sires, whereas LEM was 6.7% with values ranging from 2.3 to 12.6% among sires. Individual sires had different phenotypes in regard to pregnancy loss during different developmental periods, indicating the importance of evaluating multiple milestones of embryonic development when classifying sire fertility. No difference (P ≥ 0.05) was observed in serum concentrations of PAG in cows bred with sires of different phenotypes. Pregnancy rate by sire was also influenced by estrus expression. Sires with a greater number of cows pregnant without estrus expression, had similar incidence of early (P = 0.71) but greater incidence of late embryonic mortality (P = 0.05). These results are significant to characterize sire contribution to pregnancy maintenance and establishment in beef cows and to serve as basis of studies to identify markers to improve sire fertility evaluation.

ACS Style

Gessica Franco; Sydney Reese; Rebecca Poole; Justin Rhinehart; Kevin Thompson; Reinaldo Cooke; Ky Pohler. Sire contribution to pregnancy loss in different periods of embryonic and fetal development of beef cows. Theriogenology 2020, 154, 84 -91.

AMA Style

Gessica Franco, Sydney Reese, Rebecca Poole, Justin Rhinehart, Kevin Thompson, Reinaldo Cooke, Ky Pohler. Sire contribution to pregnancy loss in different periods of embryonic and fetal development of beef cows. Theriogenology. 2020; 154 ():84-91.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Gessica Franco; Sydney Reese; Rebecca Poole; Justin Rhinehart; Kevin Thompson; Reinaldo Cooke; Ky Pohler. 2020. "Sire contribution to pregnancy loss in different periods of embryonic and fetal development of beef cows." Theriogenology 154, no. : 84-91.

Short communication
Published: 18 January 2020 in Small Ruminant Research
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An accurate diagnosis of pregnancy and prediction of lambing rates is a critical tool for improving efficiency in sheep flocks. The ability to manage ewe nutrition based on number of fetuses could improve animal welfare and productivity. Pregnancy Specific Protein B (PSPB) assays are commercially available and have proven a valuable tool for pregnancy diagnosis but less work has been done on accuracy of predicting fetal counts. The objective of this study was to determine if PSPB could be used to accurately predict lambing rates in sheep. Samples were collected from 54 Dorset, Katahdin, or crossbred ewes at 28 days post ram removal which was approximately 46 days post breeding. Samples were processed using the quantitative BioPRYN® assay. Ewes carrying twins had greater (P < 0.001) PSPB concentrations that ewes that delivered singles, and triplets or quads tended (P = 0.09) to be greater than twins. This test could become an effective diagnostic tool for improving sheep flock management throughout gestation by providing producers insight into predicting lambing rates.

ACS Style

Carrie L. Pickworth; Julia Sheffield; Rebecca K. Poole. Pregnancy specific protein B concentration for the prediction of lambing rate in sheep. Small Ruminant Research 2020, 184, 106052 .

AMA Style

Carrie L. Pickworth, Julia Sheffield, Rebecca K. Poole. Pregnancy specific protein B concentration for the prediction of lambing rate in sheep. Small Ruminant Research. 2020; 184 ():106052.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Carrie L. Pickworth; Julia Sheffield; Rebecca K. Poole. 2020. "Pregnancy specific protein B concentration for the prediction of lambing rate in sheep." Small Ruminant Research 184, no. : 106052.

Journal article
Published: 01 January 2020 in Animal Reproduction
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Reproductive failure and pregnancy loss in cattle are some of the largest economic burdens to cattle producers and one of most perplexing factors influencing management decisions. Pregnancy loss may occur at any point during gestation with the largest percentage of loss occurring in the first 30 days and, subsequently, decreasing as the pregnancy progresses. Losses may be attributed to numerous factors, predisposed issues or environmental conditions such as nutritional stressors or disease. From a research perspective, determining the exact causes of pregnancy loss or embryonic mortality in cattle have been difficult, due to limitations of accurately determining early gestation pregnancy status. Until methods that precisely determine embryo success early in gestation are available, our understanding of in vivo pregnancy loss will lack clarity necessary to develop management strategies to decrease such loss. In this review, we will briefly discuss the pivotal periods of pregnancy loss affecting beef and dairy cattle, methods and technologies to determine pregnancy status and embryo viability and potential opportunities to decrease reproductive failure.

ACS Style

Ky Garrett Pohler; Sydney Taylor Reese; Gessica Araujo Franco; Ramiro Vander Oliveira Filho; Rafael Paiva; Lohana Fernandez; Gabriela de Melo; José Luiz Moraes Vasconcelos; Reinaldo Cooke; Rebecca Kyle Poole. New approaches to diagnose and target reproductive failure in cattle. Animal Reproduction 2020, 17, 1 .

AMA Style

Ky Garrett Pohler, Sydney Taylor Reese, Gessica Araujo Franco, Ramiro Vander Oliveira Filho, Rafael Paiva, Lohana Fernandez, Gabriela de Melo, José Luiz Moraes Vasconcelos, Reinaldo Cooke, Rebecca Kyle Poole. New approaches to diagnose and target reproductive failure in cattle. Animal Reproduction. 2020; 17 (3):1.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Ky Garrett Pohler; Sydney Taylor Reese; Gessica Araujo Franco; Ramiro Vander Oliveira Filho; Rafael Paiva; Lohana Fernandez; Gabriela de Melo; José Luiz Moraes Vasconcelos; Reinaldo Cooke; Rebecca Kyle Poole. 2020. "New approaches to diagnose and target reproductive failure in cattle." Animal Reproduction 17, no. 3: 1.

Review
Published: 23 November 2019 in Animal Reproduction Science
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Pregnancy loss in beef cattle causes both management and economic challenges to a producer. A meta-analysis was conducted to quantify reproductive failures that occur during fertilization, early embryonic development, and late embryonic/early fetal development periods of gestation in beef cattle. The meta-analysis included more than 56,000 diagnostic records in 159 studies from 48 papers with 12 studies included in fertilization and pre- blastocyst loss analysis (FERT; days 1-7 of gestation), 107 in early embryo (EEM; days 7- 32), and 40 in late embryo/early fetal period (LEF; days 32-100) analysis. Although fertilization rates are reportedly high in beef cattle, significant developmental failure occurs within the first 7 days of gestation. Approximately 28.4% of embryos will not develop past day 7 of gestation with most embryonic losses occurring before day 4. By the conclusion of the first month of gestation, 47.9% of cows submitted to a single insemination at day 0 will not be pregnant. Overall, LEF between days 32 to 60 and 100 was 5.8%. Bos indicus animals had greater (P = 0.001) EEM compared to Bos taurus, but there was no difference (P = 0.39) for the LEF period between subspecies. Primiparous cows had greater EEM (P = 0.002) compared to nulliparous heifers and multiparous cows; and nulliparous heifers had a greater LEF compared to primiparous and multiparous cows (P = 0.048). Collectively, these cumulative findings provide a baseline assessment of pregnancy loss specific to beef cattle.

ACS Style

S.T. Reese; G.A. Franco; Rebecca Poole; R. Hood; L. Fernadez Montero; R.V. Oliveira Filho; Reinaldo Cooke; K.G. Pohler. Pregnancy loss in beef cattle: A meta-analysis. Animal Reproduction Science 2019, 212, 106251 .

AMA Style

S.T. Reese, G.A. Franco, Rebecca Poole, R. Hood, L. Fernadez Montero, R.V. Oliveira Filho, Reinaldo Cooke, K.G. Pohler. Pregnancy loss in beef cattle: A meta-analysis. Animal Reproduction Science. 2019; 212 ():106251.

Chicago/Turabian Style

S.T. Reese; G.A. Franco; Rebecca Poole; R. Hood; L. Fernadez Montero; R.V. Oliveira Filho; Reinaldo Cooke; K.G. Pohler. 2019. "Pregnancy loss in beef cattle: A meta-analysis." Animal Reproduction Science 212, no. : 106251.

Journal article
Published: 30 July 2019 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted syndrome common in cattle grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue and is detrimental to growth and performance. Recent research has shown that supplementing protein has the potential to enhance growth performance in weaned steers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplemental CP on physiological parameters in stocker steers experiencing fescue toxicosis. Thirty-six weaned Angus steers (6 mo of age) stratified by weight (196.1 ± 3.6 kg) were assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement for 56 d: endophyte-free (EF) seed and 14% CP (EF-14; n = 9), EF seed and 18% CP (EF-18; n = 9), endophyte-infected (EI) seed and 14% CP (EI-14; n = 9), and EI seed and 18% CP (EI-18; n = 9). Steer growth and hemodynamic responses were collected weekly during ergot alkaloid exposure. On day 14 of the trial, iButton temperature data loggers were subcutaneously inserted in the lateral neck region to record hourly body temperature for 42 d. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS with repeated measures. No differences were observed in DMI, BW, ADG, F:G, or BCS during the treatment period (P > 0.05). Hair shedding scores, rectal temperatures, surface temperatures, and respiration rates were greater in EI steers compared to EF steers regardless of supplemental CP (P < 0.05). However, subcutaneous body temperature was greater in EI-14 steers (37.94 °C) compared to other steer groups (37.60, 37.68, 37.72 ± 0.04 °C for EF-14, EF-18, and EI-18, respectively; P < 0.05). Prolactin concentrations tended to be greater in EF steers when compared to EI steers (P = 0.07). Heart rate and hematocrit were reduced for EI-18 steers compared to other steer groups (P < 0.05). Caudal artery diameter was reduced in EI-18 steers compared to EI-14 steers (2.60 vs. 2.75 ± 0.05 mm, respectively; P < 0.05) and caudal vein diameter was reduced in EI-18 steers (3.20 mm) compared to all other steer groups (3.36, 3.39, 3.50 mm for EF-14, EF-18, and EI-14, respectively; P < 0.05). However, there was no difference observed in systolic or diastolic blood pressure during the treatment period (P > 0.05). Based on the data, exposure to low to moderate levels of ergot alkaloids during the stocker phase had a negative impact on hemodynamic responses and supplemental CP had minimal impact to alleviate symptoms. Therefore, feeding additional protein above established requirements is not expected to help alleviate fescue toxicosis.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; Carrisa M Womble; Matthew H Poore; Daniel H Poole; Carrie L Pickworth. Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: I. Growth performance and hemodynamic responses. Journal of Animal Science 2019, 97, 3776 -3785.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, Carrisa M Womble, Matthew H Poore, Daniel H Poole, Carrie L Pickworth. Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: I. Growth performance and hemodynamic responses. Journal of Animal Science. 2019; 97 (9):3776-3785.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; Carrisa M Womble; Matthew H Poore; Daniel H Poole; Carrie L Pickworth. 2019. "Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: I. Growth performance and hemodynamic responses." Journal of Animal Science 97, no. 9: 3776-3785.

Journal article
Published: 29 July 2019 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted syndrome common in cattle grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue that affects performance; however, little information is available pertaining to its effects on immunity. Recently, it has been shown that supplemental CP can improve performance in weaned steers postvaccination. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplemental CP on innate and adaptive immune responses in stocker steers chronically exposed to ergovaline. Angus steers (n = 12 pens; 3 steers/pen) were stratified by weight and assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement to examine crude protein levels of supplement (14% or 18%) and ergovaline exposure (0 or 185 μg ergovaline/kg BW/d via ground endophyte-free (EF) or endophyte-infected (EI) tall fescue seed, respectively) on immune response. Consumption of low to moderate concentration of ergovaline from EI tall fescue seed was sufficient to induce mild symptoms associated with fescue toxicosis. Blood samples were collected at day 0, 42, and 56 to evaluate infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) type 1b titers following vaccine challenge. Additionally, serum cytokine concentrations were evaluated using Quantibody Bovine Cytokine Arrays on day 0, 28, and 42. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS with repeated measures. Regardless of treatment, no differences were observed in IBR and BVDV-1b seroconversion following vaccine challenge (P > 0.05). Regardless of crude protein concentration, EI steers had greater concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1α), chemokines (CCL2, CCL4, MIG), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, -13, -15, -21), and various growth factors (FGF-1, IGF-1, VEGF-A) when compared to EF steers (P < 0.05). Furthermore, VEGF-A and IGF-1 concentrations were greater in EI-14 steers on day 28 compared to EI-18, EF-14, and EF-18 steers (P < 0.05), however, this difference was not observed on day 0 or 42 (P > 0.05). Based on these data, steers exposed to ergovaline have an increase in pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and supplemental CP had minimal impact to mitigate this response. However, in the current study, exposure to ergovaline had little to no effect on adaptive immunity and response to vaccination. Together, chronic exposure to ergovaline results in a hyperactive innate immune response, which may lead to an immuno-compromised animal.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; Alecia R Brown; Matthew H Poore; Carrie L Pickworth; Daniel H Poole. Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: II. Adaptive and innate immune function. Journal of Animal Science 2019, 97, 4160 -4170.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, Alecia R Brown, Matthew H Poore, Carrie L Pickworth, Daniel H Poole. Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: II. Adaptive and innate immune function. Journal of Animal Science. 2019; 97 (10):4160-4170.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; Alecia R Brown; Matthew H Poore; Carrie L Pickworth; Daniel H Poole. 2019. "Effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue seed and protein supplementation on stocker steers: II. Adaptive and innate immune function." Journal of Animal Science 97, no. 10: 4160-4170.

Review
Published: 21 June 2019 in Toxins
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted syndrome that elicits many negative effects on livestock consuming ergot alkaloids produced by endophyte-infected tall fescue. The economic losses associated with fescue toxicosis are primarily due to reproductive failure including altered cyclicity, suppressed hormone secretion, reduced pregnancy rates, agalactia, and reduced offspring birth weights. For decades, a multitude of research has investigated the physiological and cellular mechanisms of these reproductive failures associated with fescue toxicosis. This review will summarize the various effects of ergot alkaloids on female reproduction in grazing livestock species.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; Daniel H. Poole. Impact of Ergot Alkaloids on Female Reproduction in Domestic Livestock Species. Toxins 2019, 11, 364 .

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, Daniel H. Poole. Impact of Ergot Alkaloids on Female Reproduction in Domestic Livestock Species. Toxins. 2019; 11 (6):364.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; Daniel H. Poole. 2019. "Impact of Ergot Alkaloids on Female Reproduction in Domestic Livestock Species." Toxins 11, no. 6: 364.

Journal article
Published: 17 February 2019 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted syndrome common in cattle grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the slick hair trait on physiological and reproductive parameters in heifers experiencing fescue toxicosis. Angus × Senepol heifers (n = 31) were blocked by weight (393.5 ± 17.3 kg) and phenotype relative to hair coat at birth, and randomly fed novel endophyte fescue (EN) or endophyte-infected fescue (EI) haylage in a total mixed ration for 91 d. Weekly measurements were collected to monitor heifer growth and response during ergot alkaloids exposure. Following 28 d of treatment, estrus was synchronized and heifers were inseminated. Ovary mapping and AI pregnancy rate were examined via transrectal ultrasonography. Blood samples were taken for genotyping: slick (S) or wildtype (W). Data were analyzed using repeated measures in PROC MIXED of SAS including fescue treatment (EN vs. EI), genotype (S vs. W), and sample collection time as main effects. Body condition scores were decreased for W heifers compared with S heifers (5.48 vs. 5.66, respectively; P < 0.0001). Surface temperature was greater for EI-W heifers (37.2 °C) compared with other groups (36.4, 36.6, 36.7 °C for EN-S, EN-W, EI-S, respectively; P < 0.05). Serum PRL concentrations were reduced for EI heifers compared with EN heifers (133.5 vs. 163.1 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.05). The average number of 2 to 4 mm follicles were greater in EI-W heifers (13.8 follicles) compared with other groups (12.2, 10.6, and 11.1 for EN-S, EN-W, and EI-S, respectively; P < 0.0001). However, the average number of preovulatory follicles (≥9 mm) were reduced in EI-W heifers (0.52 follicles) compared with other heifer groups (0.94, 0.88, and 0.85 ± 0.04 for EN-S, EN-W, and EI-S, respectively; P < 0.05). Ovulatory follicle size was smaller in EI-W heifers compared with EN-W heifers (9.14 vs. 11.57 mm, respectively; P = 0.05). Corpus luteum area was reduced in EI-W heifers (235.1 mm2) compared with other heifer groups (297.2, 272.7, and 276.8 mm2 for EN-S, EN-W, and EI-S, respectively; P < 0.05). Concentrations of P4 were greater for EN heifers compared with EI heifers (2.7 vs. 1.8 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.05). Pregnancy was not established in EI-W heifers (0%) compared with other heifer groups (37.5%, 57.1%, and 62.5% for EN-S, EN-W, and EI-S, respectively; P < 0.05). Overall, the slick hair mutation appears to aid in offsetting the physiological symptoms associated with fescue toxicosis and helps to improve reproductive performance.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; Thomas L Devine; Kyle J Mayberry; Joan H Eisemann; Matt H Poore; Nathan M Long; Daniel H Poole. Impact of slick hair trait on physiological and reproductive performance in beef heifers consuming ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue1. Journal of Animal Science 2019, 97, 1456 -1467.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, Thomas L Devine, Kyle J Mayberry, Joan H Eisemann, Matt H Poore, Nathan M Long, Daniel H Poole. Impact of slick hair trait on physiological and reproductive performance in beef heifers consuming ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue1. Journal of Animal Science. 2019; 97 (4):1456-1467.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; Thomas L Devine; Kyle J Mayberry; Joan H Eisemann; Matt H Poore; Nathan M Long; Daniel H Poole. 2019. "Impact of slick hair trait on physiological and reproductive performance in beef heifers consuming ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue1." Journal of Animal Science 97, no. 4: 1456-1467.

Journal article
Published: 17 December 2018 in Translational Animal Science
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Improving artificial insemination (AI) pregnancy rates in replacement heifers improves the genetic advancement within a herd. Heifers that have completed at least three estrous cycles prior to breeding have greater pregnancy rates compared to acyclic females. Therefore, it was hypothesized that a presynchronization treatment program consisting of two injections of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) prior to the start of the CO-Synch + 5 d CIDR protocol would initiate earlier attainment of puberty and more estrous cycles prior to AI, thus increasing AI pregnancy rates. All heifers were managed the same at two locations over the course of 2 yr. Heifers were randomly assigned to receive either the two-injection PGF2α presynchronization treatment (PreSynch; n = 105) or no presynchronization (Control; n = 106) prior to the start of estrous synchronization. On the first day of the trial, reproductive tract scores (RTSs), pelvic areas, body condition scores, and weights were collected on all heifers. All heifers were synchronized with the CO-Synch + 5 d CIDR protocol and fixed-time artificially inseminated with semen from a bull of known fertility. Blood samples were collected three consecutive times at 7 d intervals starting 45 d prior to estrous synchronization to determine the onset of puberty via analyzing progesterone concentrations. Pregnancy status to AI was assessed using ultrasonography diagnosis at approximately 30 and 60 d post insemination. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS and reported as least square mean. The PreSynch treatment decreased AI pregnancy rates (52.2% vs. 38.1 ± 6.3% for Control vs. PreSynch, respectively; P = 0.06) and did not result in earlier attainment of puberty in beef heifers (P > 0.05). The PreSynch treatment did not impact pregnancy rates in heifers with an RTS of 3 or 4 (P > 0.05). However, PreSynch heifers with an RTS of 5 had decreased pregnancy rates (68.3% vs. 46.9 ± 10.1% for Control vs. PreSynch, respectively; P < 0.05). Finally, PreSynch heifers with increased body condition of 6 had decreased pregnancy rates when compared to Control heifers (37.5% vs. 62.5 ± 11.6%, respectively; P < 0.05). On the basis of these data, implementation of heifer breeding soundness examination at least 3 wk prior to the start of the breeding season may be beneficial for selecting replacement females; however, presynchronization with prostaglandins immediately prior to estrous synchronization will negatively affect AI pregnancy rates in cycling pubertal heifers.

ACS Style

Ruby E Monn; Rebecca Poole; J Christopher Mackey; Kyle J Mayberry; Harrison B Dudley; Mark Alley; Daniel H Poole. A two-injection prostaglandin F2α presynchronization treatment decreases pregnancy rates of cycling replacement beef heifers. Translational Animal Science 2018, 3, 456 -463.

AMA Style

Ruby E Monn, Rebecca Poole, J Christopher Mackey, Kyle J Mayberry, Harrison B Dudley, Mark Alley, Daniel H Poole. A two-injection prostaglandin F2α presynchronization treatment decreases pregnancy rates of cycling replacement beef heifers. Translational Animal Science. 2018; 3 (1):456-463.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Ruby E Monn; Rebecca Poole; J Christopher Mackey; Kyle J Mayberry; Harrison B Dudley; Mark Alley; Daniel H Poole. 2018. "A two-injection prostaglandin F2α presynchronization treatment decreases pregnancy rates of cycling replacement beef heifers." Translational Animal Science 3, no. 1: 456-463.

Journal article
Published: 09 August 2018 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a syndrome that impairs growth and reproduction in cattle grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum [(Schreb.].) Darbysh)] in the U.S., resulting in approximately $1 billion in annual economic loss in species that utilize this forage resource. Approximately 90% of tall fescue contains an endophytic fungus (Epichloë coenophiala) that produces ergot alkaloids. Ergot alkaloids cause vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow to the extremities, however it remains unknown how blood flow to the reproductive organs is affected in cattle. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue reduces blood flow to the reproductive organs, thus hindering reproductive function. Angus heifers (n = 36) naïve to ergot alkaloids were placed in Calan gates and randomly assigned to receive either endophyte-infected fescue seed (E+) or non-infected fescue seed (E-; control) in a total mixed ration for 63 d. Weekly measurements were taken to monitor heifer growth and response to ergot alkaloid exposure. Reproductive measurements, including ovarian structures, uterine and ovarian vessel diameter, and hormone concentrations were determined after heifers were synchronized using the standard CO-Synch + 7 d CIDR® protocol to ensure all measurements were collected at the same stages of the estrous cycle (0, 4, 10, and 17 d). Data were analyzed using repeated measures in PROC MIXED of SAS. Average daily gain was decreased for the E+ group (0.8 kg/d) compared to control heifers (1.0 kg/d). Body condition scores tended to be greater in control heifers compared to the E+ group (P=0.053). Additionally, hair coat and hair shedding scores were greater in E+ heifers compared to controls (P0.05). Vasoconstriction was observed in the caudal artery, but not the caudal vein, in heifers consuming the E+ fescue seed (P0.05). There was a significant decrease in the diameter of arteries and veins servicing the ovary and uterus on d 10 and 17 of the estrous cycle. Reduction in blood flow to the reproductive organs during critical times in the estrous cycle may contribute to the reduced ovarian function and pregnancy rates associated with fescue toxicosis.

ACS Style

Daniel H Poole; Sarah E Lyons; Rebecca Poole; Matt H Poore. Ergot alkaloids induce vasoconstriction of bovine uterine and ovarian blood vessels. Journal of Animal Science 2018, 96, 4812 -4822.

AMA Style

Daniel H Poole, Sarah E Lyons, Rebecca Poole, Matt H Poore. Ergot alkaloids induce vasoconstriction of bovine uterine and ovarian blood vessels. Journal of Animal Science. 2018; 96 (11):4812-4822.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Daniel H Poole; Sarah E Lyons; Rebecca Poole; Matt H Poore. 2018. "Ergot alkaloids induce vasoconstriction of bovine uterine and ovarian blood vessels." Journal of Animal Science 96, no. 11: 4812-4822.

Short communication
Published: 15 June 2018 in Reproductive Biology
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The influence of exposure to overfeeding-induced maternal obesity around the time of conception on early embryogenesis was examined in the day 14 ovine conceptus. The relative abundance of FGFR2 and DNMT1 was influenced by maternal obesity status and conceptus sex, and the abundance of PPARG and PTGS2 transcripts was greater in male conceptuses regardless of the obesity status of the ewe. These observations demonstrated that short-term exposure to maternal obesity impacts early conceptus transcript patterning.

ACS Style

Sarah R. McCoski; Rebecca Poole; McCauley T. Vailes; Alan D. Ealy. Maternal obesity alters the expression of embryonic regulatory transcripts in the preimplantation ovine conceptus. Reproductive Biology 2018, 18, 198 -201.

AMA Style

Sarah R. McCoski, Rebecca Poole, McCauley T. Vailes, Alan D. Ealy. Maternal obesity alters the expression of embryonic regulatory transcripts in the preimplantation ovine conceptus. Reproductive Biology. 2018; 18 (2):198-201.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Sarah R. McCoski; Rebecca Poole; McCauley T. Vailes; Alan D. Ealy. 2018. "Maternal obesity alters the expression of embryonic regulatory transcripts in the preimplantation ovine conceptus." Reproductive Biology 18, no. 2: 198-201.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2018 in Journal of Animal Science
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Ewes with low BCS (2 on scale of 5) have reduced fertility and decreased conception rates compared to ewes in more ideal BCS (3 to 4). Providing ewes with low BCS an increased feeding rate prior to breeding may help improve BCS and increase fertility and conception rates. The primary objective of the study was to determine if an increased feeding rate of low BCS ewes prior to breeding would improve conception rates and number of lambs conceived. The secondary objective of the study was to determine if extending the length of time of progesterone exposure via 10, 12, or 14 d controlled intravaginal drug releaser (CIDR) during estrus synchronization impacts ewe fertility. The 46 Dorset and Katahdin based crossbred ewes were used in an out-of-season breeding study. The ewes were allocated to 2 treatments: LOW BCS and HIGH BCS (2.09 and 2.55, respectively). Ewes were maintained on pasture and fed a grain-based flushing supplement based on treatment (0.17 kg HIGH and 0.35 kg LOW per ewe a day, respectively) for 42 d. Ewes in each treatment were divided into 4 breeding groups based on breed. On d 42 ewes began an estrus synchronization followed by natural mating. At breeding the mean BCS were 2.7 LOW and 2.9 HIGH (P > 0.10). All rams were fitted with marking harnesses and marks were recorded daily for 42 d. At d 45 post ram removal, ultrasonography was used to determine the pregnancy rate and estimate fetal counts. The data set was analyzed in Proc MIXED of SAS to determine effects of flushing treatment and synchronization protocol. Means were determined to be significant at P < 0.05 and trends at 0.05 < P < 0.10. The conception rates were not affected by BCS at 72.2% for LOW and 71.4% for HIGH (P > 0.10). Fetal counts, however, tended to be lower in LOW compared to HIGH ewes (1.8 and 2.1 ± 0.15, respectively; P = 0.07). It was determined that extended progesterone exposure did not impact conception rates (73, 77, and 64% for 10, 12, and 14 d, respectively; P > 0.10). In addition, fetal counts were similar across synchronization protocols (1.9, 2.0, and 1.9 for 10, 12, and 14 d, respectively; P > 0.10). During out-of-season breeding, using an increased flushing feeding rate in low BCS ewes in conjunction with varying CIDR insertion time during natural mating can promote ewe fertility.

ACS Style

J Sheffield; C Roman; B L Roper; Rebecca Poole; C L Pickworth. 143 Flushing and Synchronization Protocol Impacts on out of Season Breeding in Ewes. Journal of Animal Science 2018, 96, 76 -76.

AMA Style

J Sheffield, C Roman, B L Roper, Rebecca Poole, C L Pickworth. 143 Flushing and Synchronization Protocol Impacts on out of Season Breeding in Ewes. Journal of Animal Science. 2018; 96 (suppl_1):76-76.

Chicago/Turabian Style

J Sheffield; C Roman; B L Roper; Rebecca Poole; C L Pickworth. 2018. "143 Flushing and Synchronization Protocol Impacts on out of Season Breeding in Ewes." Journal of Animal Science 96, no. suppl_1: 76-76.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2018 in Journal of Animal Science
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Consumption of endophyte-infected tall fescue results in poor reproductive performance. The objective of this study was to examine physiological changes in pregnant cows grazing tall fescue to develop a better understanding of the factors that contribute to the poor reproductive performance attributed to fescue toxicosis. Pregnant Angus and Simmental-Angus cows were blocked by age (2–3, 4–7, and >7 y), BW, and breed; and then randomly assigned to graze either novel (E-; 7 y) cows having higher scores when compared to younger cows (6.0, 6.1, and 5.7, respectively; P7 y cows (2.69) compared to other age groups (2.40, 2.51, for 2–3 and 4–7 y, respectively, P<0.05) on E+ pastures, whereas no age differences in HCS were observed in cows on E- pastures. By d21 of the grazing period, cows on E- pastures displayed a greater ability to shed hair compared to cattle on E+ pastures (P<0.0001), which continued throughout the remainder of the grazing period. Progesterone concentrations in E+ cows (3.75 ng/ml) were decreased throughout the grazing period compared to E- cows (6.53 ng/mL, P<0.05). The impact of reduced progesterone concentrations, greater HCS and HSS and tendency for decreased ADG in cows grazing E+ during mid-gestation, compared to cows grazing E-, on calf development remains unknown.

ACS Style

M A Newsome; R E Monn; K Mayberry; Rebecca Poole; Z Young; M H Poore; D H Poole. 24 Grazing Novel or Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue during Mid-Gestation Impacts Cow Performance. Journal of Animal Science 2018, 96, 13 -13.

AMA Style

M A Newsome, R E Monn, K Mayberry, Rebecca Poole, Z Young, M H Poore, D H Poole. 24 Grazing Novel or Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue during Mid-Gestation Impacts Cow Performance. Journal of Animal Science. 2018; 96 (suppl_1):13-13.

Chicago/Turabian Style

M A Newsome; R E Monn; K Mayberry; Rebecca Poole; Z Young; M H Poore; D H Poole. 2018. "24 Grazing Novel or Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue during Mid-Gestation Impacts Cow Performance." Journal of Animal Science 96, no. suppl_1: 13-13.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2018 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis in beef cattle is caused by consumption of ergot alkaloids produced by endophyte-infected tall fescue and results in chronic decreases in productivity and growth performance. It was hypothesized that protein supplementation may have a positive effect on the physiological responses of growing steers consuming ergot alkaloids. In this study, 36 weaned steers (196.1 ± 3.6 kg) were used in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments to evaluate physiological responses to chronic exposure to ergot alkaloids via fescue seed and dietary protein. Steers were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups for 56 d: endophyte-free seed diet (0 ppm ergovaline) with 14% CP (EF-14), endophyte-free seed diet with 18% CP (EF-18), endophyte-infected seed diet (500 ppm ergovaline) with 14% CP (EI-14), and endophyte-infected seed diet with 18% CP (EI-18). Steers were fed at a calculated rate of 2.35% BW to achieve similar intake among treatment groups. Weekly physiological measurements were collected to evaluate the steers’ responses to the diets. On d 14, iButton temperature data loggers were subcutaneously inserted in the lateral neck region to record hourly body temperature. Steers received the bovine viral diarrhea types 1 and 2 and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis vaccines on d 28, then were administered booster vaccines on d 42. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS with repeated measures. Statistical significance was determined at P < 0.05 and a tendency at 0.05 < P < 0.10. The DMI expressed as % BW and kg per day was uniform across treatments. No differences were observed in BCS, BW, and ADG among treatment groups. However, the EI-14 steers had a less efficient F:G ratio compared to other treatment groups (6.18, 5.6, 5.7, 5.5 for EI-14, EI-18, EF-14, EF-18, respectively; P < 0.05). In contrast to previous studies, hair coat score and hair coat shedding score were not different among treatment groups (P > 0.05). The EI-18 steers had a lower heart rate compared to other groups (88.0, 98.0, 93.2, 94.8 beats per minute for EI-18, EI-14, EF-14, EF-18, respectively; P < 0.05). Meanwhile, EI steers had higher rectal temperatures and respiratory rates starting on d 35 of the feeding period compared to EF steers (P < 0.05). Diurnal rhythms in subcutaneous body temperatures varied among treatment groups throughout the feeding period (P < 0.05). Overall, physiological responses to fescue toxicosis were minimal in the growing steers.

ACS Style

C M Womble; Rebecca Poole; D H Poole; C L Pickworth. 142 Impact of Protein Supplementation on Physiological Response of Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed. Journal of Animal Science 2018, 96, 75 -76.

AMA Style

C M Womble, Rebecca Poole, D H Poole, C L Pickworth. 142 Impact of Protein Supplementation on Physiological Response of Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed. Journal of Animal Science. 2018; 96 (suppl_1):75-76.

Chicago/Turabian Style

C M Womble; Rebecca Poole; D H Poole; C L Pickworth. 2018. "142 Impact of Protein Supplementation on Physiological Response of Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed." Journal of Animal Science 96, no. suppl_1: 75-76.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2018 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a multifaceted disease that negatively impacts growth and performance. Cattle grazing endophyte-infected fescue have a depressed immune response to vaccinations. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of protein supplementation on weaned calves’ physiological and immune responses while consuming an ergot alkaloid toxin (i.e. ergovaline) commonly produced by endophyte-infected tall fescue. Thirty-six naïve beef steers (196.1 ± 3.6 kg) were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to receive one of four treatments in a total mixed ration (TMR): endophyte-free seed (0 ppm ergovaline) and 18% protein supplementation (EF-18; n=9), endophyte-free seed and 14% supplementation (EF-14; n=9), endophyte-infected seed (500 ppm ergovaline) and 18% supplementation (EI-18; n=9), and endophyte-infected seed and 14% supplementation (EI-14; n=9). Diameter of caudal artery and vein were recorded weekly by ultrasound. On d14 of the feeding trial, iButton® temperature data loggers were inserted in the lateral neck region to hourly record the subcutaneous body temperature. On d28, steers were vaccinated against infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) and bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) types 1 and 2 viruses. Steers received a booster two weeks later (d42). Blood samples were collected at d0, 42, and 56 to evaluate titers to IBR and BVDV1b. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS with repeated measures. A treatment interaction was observed with EI-14 steers experiencing vasodilation of the caudal artery (27.4 mm2) in comparison to other steer groups (P<0.05; 26.8, 26.1, 25.8 ± 0.5 mm2 for EF-18, EF-14, and EI-18, respectively). A similar effect of greater caudal vein diameters was observed in EI-14 steers (35.0 mm2) when compared to other steer groups (P<0.05; 33.6, 32.8, 32.0 ± 0.6 mm2 for EF-18, EF-14, and EI-18, respectively). Subcutaneous body temperature was higher in EI-14 steers compared to EF-14 steers after the vaccination (P<0.05; 38.0 and 37.7 ± 0.1 °C, respectively) and booster (P<0.05; 37.9 and 37.6 ± 0.1 °C, respectively). A tendency was observed in the seroconversion of IBR and BVDV1b antibody titers with a greater seroconversion in EI-18 steers compared to EF-18 steers (P=0.09; 66.7 and 44.4 ± 9.2% for IBR and P=0.08, 66.7 and 48.2 ± 7.5% for BVDV1b, respectively), no differences were observed when compared to other steer groups. Overall, a unique response was observed in steers consuming ergovaline as a result of protein supplementation, with 14% protein effecting blood flow and 18% protein having a potential impact on the animal’s immune response.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; C M Womble; C L Pickworth; D H Poole. 41 “Effect of Protein Supplementation on Immune Response of Weaned Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed”. Journal of Animal Science 2018, 96, 21 -22.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, C M Womble, C L Pickworth, D H Poole. 41 “Effect of Protein Supplementation on Immune Response of Weaned Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed”. Journal of Animal Science. 2018; 96 (suppl_1):21-22.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; C M Womble; C L Pickworth; D H Poole. 2018. "41 “Effect of Protein Supplementation on Immune Response of Weaned Steers Consuming Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Seed”." Journal of Animal Science 96, no. suppl_1: 21-22.

Journal article
Published: 01 January 2017 in Animal
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In an effort to better understand the consequences of early weaning (EW) for replacement beef heifers, a two-phase experiment was conducted investigating the impact on metabolic function and documenting reproductive characteristics. In phase 1, Angus×Simmental heifers (n=35) were stratified by BW and sire, and randomly assigned to either a normal weaning (NW, n=18) or EW (n=17) treatment. EW heifers were weaned at 107±3 days of age and provided access to a concentrate-based ration ad libitum with limit-fed mixed grass hay. NW heifers remained with their dams until 232±3 days of age, at which point heifers from both treatments were comingled and grazed on mixed summer pasture. Following NW, weekly blood samples were collected from all heifers for progesterone analyses used to determine the onset of puberty. Pelvic and ovarian size was measured before breeding. All heifers were subjected to an estrous synchronization protocol with timed artificial insemination (AI) at 437±4 days of age. During phase 2 of the experiment, a subset of pregnant heifers (n=16) were divided into two replicates and subjected to a glucose tolerance test, epinephrine challenge and progesterone clearance analysis. Neither age nor BW at puberty differed between EW and NW heifers. Likewise, no differences in pelvic area or ovarian size were observed. Thus, it appears that the reproductive maturity of EW and NW heifers was similar. Heifers studied during phase 2 of the experiment were restricted to those that had become pregnant to their first AI. Within this cohort, EW heifers tended to have lower overall circulating progesterone concentrations than those that were NW (P=0.14). Aspects of glucose and insulin dynamics were also altered, as EW heifers tended to have lower baseline glucose concentrations (P=0.10) despite similar baseline insulin concentrations. Compared with NW heifers, EW heifers had lower insulin area under the curve (P<0.05), which was partly the result of a tendency for lower peak insulin concentrations (P=0.11). Results of the glucose tolerance test indicate that a lesser insulin response was necessary to properly clear the glucose in the EW heifers, suggesting enhanced insulin sensitivity. Collectively, these results indicate that EW is not detrimental for the growth or reproductive development of replacement beef heifers, although some differences in glucose and insulin dynamics persist into adulthood.

ACS Style

A.L. Zezeski; V.L. McCracken; Rebecca Poole; A. Al Naib; J.K. Smith; M.A. McCann; Michelle Rhoads. Metabolic and reproductive characteristics of replacement beef heifers subjected to an early-weaning regimen involving high-concentrate feeding. Animal 2017, 11, 820 -825.

AMA Style

A.L. Zezeski, V.L. McCracken, Rebecca Poole, A. Al Naib, J.K. Smith, M.A. McCann, Michelle Rhoads. Metabolic and reproductive characteristics of replacement beef heifers subjected to an early-weaning regimen involving high-concentrate feeding. Animal. 2017; 11 (5):820-825.

Chicago/Turabian Style

A.L. Zezeski; V.L. McCracken; Rebecca Poole; A. Al Naib; J.K. Smith; M.A. McCann; Michelle Rhoads. 2017. "Metabolic and reproductive characteristics of replacement beef heifers subjected to an early-weaning regimen involving high-concentrate feeding." Animal 11, no. 5: 820-825.

Journal article
Published: 01 December 2016 in Journal of Animal Science
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Fescue toxicosis is a disease common in cattle grazing tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh]. containing an endophytic fungus (Epichloë coenophiala) that produces ergot alkaloids. Previous research from our lab demonstrated that chronic exposure of ergot alkaloids reduced ovarian and uterine blood flow, which could alter ovarian function. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue reduces follicle numbers, or suppresses follicular development resulting in poor embryo growth. Angus × Senepol heifers (n = 30) were blocked by weight and genotype [Slick (S) or Normal (N)] were placed in Calan gates then randomly assigned to receive either endophyte-infected fescue seed (EI) or non-infected fescue seed (EF; control) for 63d. Weekly measurements were collected to monitor physiological responses during exposure to ergot alkaloids. Following 30d of exposure to ergot alkaloids, heifers were synchronized and inseminated to examine reproductive measurements, including daily follicle mapping, AI pregnancy rate, and embryo development. Data were analyzed using repeated measures in the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS. ADG was decreased in EI-N heifers (0.48 kg/d) compared to other heifer groups (P < 0.05; 0.63, 0.62, 0.58 kg/d for EI-S, EF-N, and EF-S, respectively). BCS were greater for EF-S, EI-N and EI-S (5.6, 5.6 and 5.7, respectively) compared to EI-N (5.5; P < 0.05). Hair shedding scores were lower for EF-S and EI-S (1.5 and 2.2, respectively) compared to EF-N and EI-N (2.5 and 2.6, respectively; P < 0.05). The number of recruited (2-4mm) follicles was significantly greater in EI-N heifers (13.7) and significantly lower in EF-N heifers (10.6) compared to other heifer groups (P < 0.05; 11.1, 12.2 follicles for EI-S, and EF-S, respectively). No differences were observed (P > 0.05) in the number of selected (5 to 8mm) follicles. Whereas, the number of dominant (> 9mm) follicles was reduced in EI-N heifers (0.52) compared to other heifer groups (P < 0.05; 0.85, 0.87, 0.93 follicles for EI-S, EF-N, and EF-S, respectively). AI pregnancy rates were decreased in EI-N heifers (0%) compared to other heifer groups (P < 0.05; 86, 50, 43% for EI-S, EF-N, and EF-S, respectively). No differences were observed in early embryo growth and development. Based on these data, ergot alkaloids from endophyte-infected tall fescue alter ovarian follicular development, specifically during the selection to dominant stage, potentially contributing to the poor reproductive performance in infected cattle. However, the slick hair genotype appears to aid in offsetting the physiological symptoms associated with fescue toxicosis, resulting in improved pregnancy rates.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; T. L. Devine; J. C. Mackey; M. H. Poore; D. H. Poole. 040 Ergot Alkaloids from Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Alters Ovarian Follicle Growth and Development in Beef Heifers. Journal of Animal Science 2016, 95, 19 -20.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, T. L. Devine, J. C. Mackey, M. H. Poore, D. H. Poole. 040 Ergot Alkaloids from Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Alters Ovarian Follicle Growth and Development in Beef Heifers. Journal of Animal Science. 2016; 95 (suppl_1):19-20.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; T. L. Devine; J. C. Mackey; M. H. Poore; D. H. Poole. 2016. "040 Ergot Alkaloids from Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue Alters Ovarian Follicle Growth and Development in Beef Heifers." Journal of Animal Science 95, no. suppl_1: 19-20.

Research article
Published: 01 January 2016 in Reproduction, Fertility and Development
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Infertility among women has become a growing issue in the world requiring a significant number to seek treatment by means of assisted reproductive technologies. One suggested reason for the fertility issue, which is known to specifically affect oocyte quality, is the modern diet. Previously, we have demonstrated that feeding a high-fructose diet to gilts led to poor reproductive tract characteristics and infertility. In this study, pre-pubescent gilts were fed either a high-fructose; high-fat diet (HFHF), with 15% beef tallow and 35% fructose; or an industry control diet (IND). Porcine follicular fluid (pFF) collected from these gilts was introduced into in vitro maturation systems to determine whether characteristics of the follicular fluid affect oocyte competence and embryo development. Follicles from ovaries, collected at a local abattoir, were aspirated by an 18 G needle attached to a 10-mL sterile syringe. Then selected cumulus‐oocyte complexes were maturated in vitro in a TCM-199 maturation media with cysteine, glucose, sodium pyruvate, epidermal growth factor (EGF), FSH, LH, and 20% pFF from treatment groups. Additionally, another group of oocytes, labelled follicle fluid free (FFF), were maturated in TCM-199 media without pFF. Three replicate experiments were conducted using a total of 365 oocytes, 124 FFF, 121 IND, and 120 HFHF. Oocytes were denuded by exposure to 0.1% hyaluronidase and oocytes that reached metaphase II (MII) were selected for in vitro fertilisation. After 5 h of co-incubation in modified Tween medium B with milk powder (mTBM)-based IVF media, presumable zygotes were transferred to porcine zygote medium-3 (PZM-3). Blastocyst frequency was recorded on Days 5 and 6. Day 6 blastocysts were stained with Hoechst for total cell number evaluation. The frequencies of blastocyst formation among the treatment groups were compared by a chi-squared test, and total cell numbers were compared by Student's t-test. Statistical significance was defined by P < 0.05. The frequency of oocytes reaching metaphase II (MII) were observed as 77.4% FFF, 72.7% IND, and 71.7% HFHF (P > 0.05), indicating the supplementation of pFF did not affect maturation. Day 5 blastocysts were observed at frequencies of 8.3% FFF, 6.8% IND, and 4.7% HFHF and did not differ. However, frequency of Day 6 blastocysts from HFHF group was tended to be lower compared with that of other groups; 12.5% FFF, 11.4% IND, and 4.7% HFHF (P = 0.06 and P = 0.1). Average total cell number of Day 6 blastocysts observed were 41.0 ± 9.1 FFF, 36.0 ± 8.9 IND, and 48.3 ± 10.6 HFHF. The total cell number from HFHF group tended to be higher than only that of IND group (P = 0.07). Based on these results, we concluded that the follicular fluid of females consuming HFHF diets did not have impact on nuclear maturation of oocytes but might affect oocyte competency, thus resulting in detrimental effects on subsequent development of embryos, especially blastocyst formation. Further studies will help us identify more specific effects of nutrition on oogenesis and subsequent embryo development.

ACS Style

Rebecca Poole; V. McCracken; M. Rhoads; K. Lee. 213 MATURATION OF OOCYTES WITH FOLLICULAR FLUID FROM GILTS CONSUMING HIGH FAT AND FRUCTOSE AFFECTS SUBSEQUENT EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT. Reproduction, Fertility and Development 2016, 28, 237 -238.

AMA Style

Rebecca Poole, V. McCracken, M. Rhoads, K. Lee. 213 MATURATION OF OOCYTES WITH FOLLICULAR FLUID FROM GILTS CONSUMING HIGH FAT AND FRUCTOSE AFFECTS SUBSEQUENT EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT. Reproduction, Fertility and Development. 2016; 28 (2):237-238.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rebecca Poole; V. McCracken; M. Rhoads; K. Lee. 2016. "213 MATURATION OF OOCYTES WITH FOLLICULAR FLUID FROM GILTS CONSUMING HIGH FAT AND FRUCTOSE AFFECTS SUBSEQUENT EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT." Reproduction, Fertility and Development 28, no. 2: 237-238.