Digital Commons Network^™

A Case Of Milkweed Poisoning In Cattle In Colorado, Raye Walck, Brett Webb, Steve Ensley, Daniel Cook

Poisonous Plant Research (PPR)

Milkweeds, Asclepias spp., are herbaceous perennials of the Apocyanaceae family. Milkweeds contain several cardiac glycosides, cardenolides, that are toxic. Clinical signs associated with milkweed toxicity are generalized weakness, difficulty in breathing, rapid weak pulse, bloating, violent spasms, paralysis, and death. Here we report a clinical case of milkweed toxicity in cattle due to contaminated hay. Clinical signs observed in the poisoned animals were consistent with cardenolide toxicity. Milkweed was detected in the rumen contents of the poisoned cow using DNA metabarcoding. In summary, multiple lines of corroborative evidence were used to make the diagnoses of milkweed poisoning in this case.

Contrasting Effects Of Climate Warming On Hosts And Parasitoids: Insights From Rocky Mountain Aspen Leaf Miners And Their Parasitoids, Alisha A. Shah, Emily Hamant, Juan G. Rubalcaba, Beau Larkin, Andrew A. Forbes, H. Arthur Woods

Aspen Bibliography

Because temperature has pervasive effects on biological rates, climate warming may alter the outcomes of interactions between insect hosts and their parasitoids, which, for many host species, constitute the single largest source of mortality. Despite growing interest in parasitoid-host responses due to climate change, there are few empirical tests of thermal tolerance differences between non-model lepidopteran hosts and their parasitoids and almost none from mountain ecosystems where warming is occurring more rapidly. We examined the thermal ecology of a host–parasitoid interaction in the Rocky Mountains using the wild populations of the aspen leaf miner (Phyllocnistis populiella) and a …

Canada Thistle (Cirsium Arvense) Identification And Control, Caitlin Henderson, Robert Nelson Schaeffer, Corey Ransom

All Current Publications

Cirsium arvense is an invasive perennial weed adaptable to a wide range of habitats. Since its arrival in North America in the 1600s, it has spread throughout much of the country. It has become prevalent in rangelands and disturbed areas in the Intermountain West, displacing native plant species, reducing crop yields, and affecting pasture quality. This fact sheet outlines how to identify Canada thistle, its life cycle, and how to manage it through cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical control.

Two Unique Cases Of Ponderosa Pine Needle-Induced Abortions, Kevin D. Welch, Megan A. Dietz, Steven E. Edmonds, Dale R. Gardener, Daniel Cook

Poisonous Plant Research (PPR)

Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) needles can induce abortions in cows when consumed during the last trimester of pregnancy. Traditionally pine needle-induced abortions occur in areas where cattle are forced into a stand of ponderosa pine trees to seek shelter and feed during a winter storm that is either very cold, has heavy snow or high winds. However, here we report two incidences of pine needle-induced abortions in cattle that were unique. In one case, there was no weather-related event that forced the cattle into the stand of pine trees, rather the cattle went into the pine trees seeking …

Genomic-Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies The Syrian Hamster As A Superior Animal Model For Human Diseases, Chuchu Wang, Zhenguo Cheng, Jinxin Miao, Xia Xue, Yunshu Dong, Li Zhao, Haoran Guo, Jianyao Wang, Zhizhong Wang, Shuangshuang Lu, Guangming Fang, Ying Peng, Yafei Zhai, Zhongxian Zhang, Dongling Gao, Zhimin Wang, Pengju Wang, Lirong Zhang, Louisa S. Chard Dunmall, Jun Wang, Wenxue Tang, Xiaowei Li, Zhongren Ding, Xiaoyan Zhao, Ling Li, Nicholas R. Lemoine, Zhongde Wang, Daniel Tonge, Wenjie Tan, Jianzeng Dong, Yaohe Wang

Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science Faculty Publications

Background The Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) has shown promise as a human diseases model, recapitulating features of different human diseases including COVID-19. However, the landscape of its genome and transcriptome has not been systematically dissected, restricting its potential applications.

Results Here we provide a complete analysis of the genome and transcriptome of the Syrian hamster and found that its lineage diverged from that of the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus) around 29.4 million years ago. 21,387 protein-coding genes were identified, with 90.03% of the 2.56G base pair sequence being anchored to 22 chromosomes. Further comparison of the …

Elevated Extinction Risk In Over One-Fifth Of Native North American Pollinators, Tara Cornelisse, David W. Inouye, Rebecca E. Irwin, Sarina Jepsen, Jonathan R. Mawdsley, Margaret Ormes, Jaret Daniels, Diane M. Debinski, Terry Griswold, John Klymko, Michael C. Orr, Leif Richardson, Nicole Sears, Dale Schweitzer, Bruce E. Young

Biology Faculty Publications

Pollinators are critical for food production and ecosystem function. Although native pollinators are thought to be declining, the evidence is limited. This first, taxonomically diverse assessment for mainland North America north of Mexico reveals that 22.6% (20.6 to 29.6%) of the 1,579 species in the best-studied vertebrate and insect pollinator groups have elevated risk of extinction. All three pollinating bat species are at risk and bees are the insect group most at risk (best estimate, 34.7% of 472 species assessed, range 30.3 to 43.0%). Substantial numbers of butterflies (19.5% of 632 species, range 19.1 to 21.0%) and moths (16.1% of …

Multi-Sensor Integration And Machine Learning For High-Resolution Classification Of Herbivore Foraging Behavior, Bashiri Iddy Muzzo, Kelvyn Bladen, Andres Perea, Shelemia Nyamuryekung’E, Juan J. Villalba

Wildland Resources Student Research

This study classified cows’ foraging behaviors using machine learning (ML) models evaluated through random test split (RTS) and cross-validation (CV) data partition methods. Models included Perceptron, Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine, KNearest Neighbors, Random Forest (RF), and XGBoost (XGB). These models classified activity states (active vs. static), foraging behaviors (grazing (GR), resting (RE), walking (W), ruminating (RU)), posture states (standing up (SU) vs. lying down (LD)), and posture combinations with rumination and resting behaviors (RU_SU, RU_LD, RE_SU, and RE_LD). XGB achieved the highest accuracy for state classification (74.5% RTS, 74.2% CV) and foraging behavior (69.4% CV). RF outperformed XGB in …

Bryce Canyon Aspen: Recent Trends, Future Actions, Paul C. Rogers

Aspen Bibliography

In cooperation with Bryce Canyon National Park, we undertook a survey of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) conditions throughout the Park with the intention of better understanding conditions and prescribing corrective measures where needed. There are clear disparities within the Park between sustainable aspen conditions and failing stands. Based on condition of mature trees, but most importantly regeneration and recruitment of juvenile stems, most aspen forests within Bryce Canyon are in poor condition. Aspen recruitment—generally sapling-sized trees that have survived browsing ungulates—is the most important metric of future stand resilience and here we found 83% of all aspen sample …

An Alternative To Biliverdin, Mesobiliverdin Ixα And Mesobiliverdin-Enriched Microalgae: A Review On The Production And Applications Of Mesobiliverdin-Related Products, Naveena Poudyal, Jon Y. Takemoto, Yuan-Yu Lin, Cheng-Wei T. Chang

Chemistry and Biochemistry Student Research

Despite attracting interest for decades due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities, the use of biliverdin IXα (BV) in medicine and agriculture is hampered by uncertain purity and limited availability. A significant amount of effort has been devoted to the production and application of BV, but with limited success. Mesobiliverdin IXα (MBV), a natural BV analog derived from microalgae, offers a path to overcome the limitations of BV. MBV production is scalable, and it can be obtained at high purity. MBV and BV share important structural features (e.g., bridging propionate groups) and both are substrates of biliverdin reductase A (BVRA), …

Using Thermal Camera Drones In Beef Cattle Roundup, Justin Wyatt Clawson, Eric Galloway, Shalyn Drake, Shawn Barstow, Ross Israelsen, Michael Pate

All Current Publications

Using drones with thermal sensors can be an effective tool in finding and collecting livestock from summer mountain ranges in the West. Drones can complete searches in much less time than required on horseback in demonstrated areas. Using drones reduces the workload of the rider and horse, saving time and energy and reducing the risk of injury. With proper training and certification, livestock producers can use drones to locate cattle and perform many other cost-cutting operations.

Hatching And Caring For Chicks, Cory Farnsworth, Jacob Hadfield, Ashley Longmore

All Current Publications

There are many reasons people are interested in raising birds. Most people who desire to start are interested in saving money and becoming more self-sufficient. Many people find excitement in hatching eggs and raising chicks. This fact sheet will help you get started with hatching eggs and raising chicks.

Faculty Senate Executive Committee Agenda, March 17, 2025, Utah State University

Faculty Senate & Faculty Senate Executive Committee

• 3:00 Call to Order
• Approval of Minutes - February 18, 2025
• 3:05 University Business
• 3:20 Faculty Senate Business
• 3:35 Information
• EPC Report - March 6, 2025
• 3:40 Report
• Budget of Faculty Welfare Committee
• Sustainability Council
• Policy 323, 378, 389
• 4:00 Old Business
• 4:05 New Business
• 2025-2026 Faculty Senate Calendar
• Adjourn: 4:30 pm

Exploring The Social Validity And Diffusion Potential Of Common Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention Strategies Implemented In Community Preschools, Sophia R. D'Agostino, Trenton J. Landon, Alyssa Roylance, Avery Briggs, Naima Bhana-Lopez

Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling Faculty Publications

It is imperative that researchers include the perspectives from key voices regarding early support practices, yet very few studies have included direct assessment of autistic individuals and parents of young autistic children. Despite emerging evidence of effectiveness of naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI) strategies, it is currently unknown whether autistic adults and parents of autistic individuals know about NDBI and if they view NDBI strategies as socially valid practice. We aimed to explore the perceptions of autistic adults and parents of young autistic children regarding the social validity of NDBI strategies implemented in community preschool classrooms and their dissemination potential. …

Ethics Of Care: Applying Cultural Protocols To Indigenous Sound Recordings, Jolene D. Manus

Journal of Western Archives

The University of New Mexico, College of University Libraries and Library Sciences, endorsed The Protocols for Native American Archival Materials in 2020. This case study explores the use of an Ethics of Care approach, prioritizing Indigenous cultural protocols for Indigenous sound recordings housed within the archival collections of the Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections (CSWR). The CSWR staff sought guidance from local tribal nations when CSWR patrons requested the duplication of cultural songs, cultural oral histories, and/or interviews. Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, tribal cultural rights departments, and specified tribal persons identified by tribes as cultural experts reviewed the …

Continuous Exposure To An Aversive Mixture: A Means Of Maintaining Aversion In Sheep Averted To Geigeria Ornativa O. Hoffm. (Vermeerbos) - An Assessment, Leendert D. Snyman

Poisonous Plant Research (PPR)

Establishing aversion to Geigeria ornativa only lasts for some time, after which the induced aversion disappears and sheep start eating G. ornativa again. This behavior is aggravated by the social influence of non-averted sheep in mixed grazing situations. Exposing sheep continuously to a so-called “aversive mixture”, containing an aversive substance (lithium chloride) and the sensory characteristics of the plant (hexane extract of G. ornativa) mixed with a tasty meal (maize meal), following an initial aversion treatment, resulted in sustained aversion to G. ornativa in the field. This method proved to be applicable to mixed grazing situations with averted and …

Creating Sustainable School And Home Gardens: Using Drones To Enhance Garden Projects, Douglas Weber, Rita Hagevik, Kathy Cabe Trundle

All Current Publications

This fact sheet explores using drones to enhance garden projects at home and in schools. It covers the benefits of drones, such as monitoring garden health, planning layouts, and assessing plant conditions through advanced imaging technologies. Additionally, it outlines essential factors to consider when selecting a drone, including cost, battery life, camera quality, and local regulations. Tips for safe operation and effective usage are also provided, as well as fun facts about drones.

Creating Sustainable School And Home Gardens: Organic Pest Management, Ruby Mohr, Kathy Cabe Trundle, Rita Hagevik

All Current Publications

This fact sheet on organic pest management outlines sustainable gardening practices that promote ecological balance and biodiversity. It defines organic pest management as a proactive method, using natural insecticides like sulfur and neem oil, along with unique pest control strategies such as beer traps and cinnamon repellents. Additionally, it highlights plants like mint and marigolds that repel harmful pests while attracting beneficial insects. By implementing these approaches, gardeners can protect crops sustainably, enhance soil health, and reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides, thus supporting a healthier food system.

Building Relationships For Meaningful Co-Created Indigenous Climate Education, B. Hanson, R. Mccann, D. Smiley, S. Hinck, A. R. Archie, N. Butler

Environment and Society Student Research

This project involved a multicultural team collaboratively co-creating a climate change module by and for Indigenous people. Embracing the framework of cultural humility, we recognized the bidirectional learning inherent in the project and its role in mitigating power dynamics within the team. This endeavor underscored the significance of transparency, effective communication, respect, reciprocity, trust building, and sensitivity to cultural contexts. Our findings emphasized the need for locally grounded programs that echo local traditional wisdom. We discovered that fostering an environment conducive to active listening and patience is pivotal in establishing a secure space. Our research affirms the equal validity and …

Curriculum Subcommittee Agenda March 6, 2025, Utah State University

Educational Policies Committee

• Approval of Minutes - February 6, 2025
• Program Proposals
• Semester Course Approval Reviews
• College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences
• Caine College of the Arts
• Jon M. Huntsman School of Business
• Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services
• College of Engineering
• College of Humanities and Social Sciences
• S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources
• College of Science
• College of Veterinary Medicine
• Other Business
• Adjourn: 3:00 pm

The Utah Statesman, March 3, 2025, Utah State University

The Utah Statesman

Weekly student newspaper of Utah State University in Logan.

Bugs Pay For Days Of Steady Reservoir Releases To Reduce Hydropeaking Ecosystem Conflict, Moazzam Ali Rind, David E. Rosenberg

Civil and Environmental Engineering Student Research

Steady low reservoir releases increase downstream primary and aquatic invertebrate (bugs) production. These releases also reduce hydropeaking value, raise costs for hydropower customers, and reduce funds to maintain infrastructure and repay loans. This study quantifies the win-lose tradeoff between hydropeaking value and days per month of steady low releases at Glen Canyon Dam, Arizona. We estimate win-lose tradeoffs for monthly release volumes of 0.71 to 0.95 million acre-feet from March to October 2018 and 0 to 31 days. Conservative estimates indicate that steady low releases on eight weekend days per summer month in 2018 reduced monthly hydropeaking value by $430,000 …

Changing Fire Regimes In The Great Basin Usa, Eva K. Strand, Kori Blankenship, Corey Gucker, Mark Brunson, Eugénie Montblanc

Aspen Bibliography

Wildfire is a natural disturbance in landscapes of the Western United States, but the effects and extents of fire are changing. Differences between historical and contemporary fire regimes can help identify reasons for observed changes in landscape composition. People living and working in the Great Basin, USA, are observing altered fire conditions, but spatial information about the degree and direction of change and departure from historical fire regimes is lacking. This study estimates how fire regimes have changed in the major Great Basin vegetation types over the past 60 years with comparisons to historical (pre-1900) fire regimes. We explore potential …

What To Do Now That You've Trapped A Nuisance Wild Animal, Cory Farnsworth, S. Nicole Frey

All Current Publications

This fact sheet outlines specific guidelines for legally responding to nuisance wild animals. Management best practices, animal use, euthanasia, and proper disposal are discussed.

The Building Resistance Against Viral Entities (Brave) Innovation Center, Zhongde Wang

Funded Research Records

No abstract provided.

Photographs Tell The Story Of Bear Lake To Raise Awareness Of Its Importance To Utahns, Annora Madden, Kennedy Fry

Research on Capitol Hill

The work aims to create a visual record of Bear Lake's unique ecological, historical, agricultural, and recreational features.

Wild Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Lepidota) Identification And Management In Pastures, Jacob Hadfield, Taun Beddes, Michael Caron, Corey Ransom

All Current Publications

Wild licorice, also known as American licorice, is a perennial legume native to North America, commonly found in the western United States. Wild licorice reproduces rapidly through seeds and rhizomes, leading to large infestations, particularly in pastures. The low preference of livestock for wild licorice results in overgrazing of other plant species, leaving them at a competitive disadvantage, further promoting the spread of wild licorice and contributing to pasture infestations. This fact sheet reviews the identification and management of wild licorice in pastures.

What Do Utahns Think About Global Warming And Climate Change?, Scott Hotaling, Kendall Becker, Lendel K. Narine, Jessica Ulrich-Schad, Roslynn Mccann, Peter D. Howe

All Current Publications

In Utah, there is widespread consensus that global warming is happening, and the strength of this consensus has been steadily rising since 2010. Over the last 14 years, some public opinion metrics have risen dramatically while others have been largely stable. The degree of climate impacts in Utah will depend on residents’ perceptions of climate change and support for implementing policies to help the state adapt to warmer temperatures, more extreme weather events, and other associated changes. In this fact sheet, we integrate multiple data sources to summarize the status and trends of Utahns’ opinions on climate change.

The Utah Statesman, February 17, 2025, Utah State University

The Utah Statesman

Weekly student newspaper of Utah State University in Logan.

Recent Developments In Heterologous Expression Of Cellulases Using The Pichia Pastoris Expression System: A Comprehensive Literature Review, Nazish Muzaffar, Abdur Raziq, Muhammad Waseem Khan, Niaz Muhammad Khan, Bushra Shahid, Anbareen Gul, Hayat Ullah

Biological Engineering Student Research

Cellulosic biomass is considered an important and sustainable source of renewable energy, which needs a complex mixture of different enzymes for its degradation. After amylase, cellulases are the second most important enzymes, gain more importance due to their broad range of applications at the industrial level, and are considered more economical and environmentally friendly; researchers have focused more on the production of cellulase with its higher expression rate and low cost. Pichia pastoris, a methylotrophic yeast strain, has a more effective and well-established system for the production of heterologous proteins, particularly for industrial enzymes. Moreover, its readily achievable high-density …

Replacement Of Monensin With A Proprietary Tannin-Blend Additive In Calf-Fed Holstein Steer Diets, Sydney M. Bowman-Schnug, Luke K. Fuerniss, Joe D. Cameron, Jonathon L. Beckett, Muhammad Ahsin, Stephan Van Vliet, Guy D. Hufstedler, Bradley J. Johnson

Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences Faculty Publications

A proprietary tannin blend was evaluated as a potential ionophore replacement considering traits of feedlot cattle growth performance, carcass traits, and health. Holstein steers (n = 1450; initial shrunk body weight (SBW) = 141.6 ± 34.2 kg.) were blocked by origin and randomly assigned to receive a finishing diet containing one of two treatments: 1) 14,500 mg per head daily of Silvafeed ByProX (SBPX; ByPro/BX blend, Silvateam S.p.A, San Michele Mondovì, Italy) or 2) 180 mg per head daily of monensin (MON; Rumensin™ 90, Elanco, Greenfield, IN). Steers were on trial for 341 ± 11 days. Pen was the …