Michael D. MacNeil

Providing expertise in breeding and genetics, statistics, and systems analysis to enhance efficiency and profitability of food production.

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Peer Reviewed Publications

Linde, D. A., van Marle-Köster, E., Scholtz, M. M., Gonda, M. G., Gonzalez-Hernandez, J. L. and MacNeil, M. D. Differential gene expression in the Longissimus dorsi of Nguni and  Bonsmara bulls finished on low and high energy diets. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 53(1): 101-108. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/sajas.v53i1.11

Buchanan, J. W., Flagel, L. E., MacNeil, M. D., Nilles, A. R., Hoff, J. L., Pickrell, J. K. and Raymond, R. C. Variance component estimates, phenotypic characterization, and genetic  evaluation of bovine congestive heart failure in commercial feeder cattle. Front. Genet. 14:1148301. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1148301 2023. 

Mdyogolo, S., M. D. MacNeil, F. W. C. Neser, M. M. Scholtz, and M. L. Makgahlela. Assessing accuracy of genotype imputation in the Afrikaner and Brahman cattle breeds of South Africa. Tropical Animal Health and Production 54:90. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-022-03102-0 2022.

Pyoos, G. M., M. M. Scholtz, M. D. MacNeil, A. Theunissen and F. W. C. Neser. Alternative measures of cow–calf efficiency for Afrikaner, Bonsmara, Nguni, Angus and Simmental sired calves. Animal Production Science. doi:10.1071/AN21479 2022.

Notter, D. R., M. Heidaritabar, J. M. Burke, M. Shirali, B. M. Murdoch, J. L. M. Morgan, G. Morota, T. S. Sonstegard, G. M. Becker, G. L. Spangler, M. D. MacNeil, and J. E. Miller. Single nucleotide polymorphism effects on lamb fecal egg count estimated breeding values in progeny-tested Katahdin sires. Frontiers in Genetics 13. DOI=10.3389/fgene.2022.866176 2022.

MacNeil, M. D., D. P. Berry, S. A. Clark, J. J. Crowley, and M. M. Scholtz. Evaluation of partial body weight for predicting body weight and average daily gain in growing beef cattle. Trans. Anim. Sci. 5:1-12. https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txab126 2021.

Portes J. V., G.R.O. Menezes, L. O. Campos da Silva, M. D. MacNeil, U.G.P. de Abreu, V. V. de Lacerda, and J. B. Neto. Selection indexes for Nellore production system in the Brazilian Pantanal. R. Bras. Zootec., 50:e20200264. https://doi.org/10.37496/rbz5020200264 2021.

Reganne K. Briggs, Rachael C. Christensen, Shelby M. Quarnberg, Jerrad F. Legako,
Randall C. Raymond, Michael D. MacNeil, and Kara J. Thornton. Relationship Between Meat Quality, Carcass Characteristics, and Protein Abundance of HSPβ1, HSPA, and DJ1 in Beef Longissimus thoracis Pre-Rigor or After 14 Days’ Aging. Meat and Muscle Biology 5(1): 22. doi:10.22175/mmb.11685 2021.

Erin A. Little, Jenelle R. Dunkelberger, Dan Hanson, John M. Eggert, Michael G. Gonda, Michael MacNeil, Egbert F. Knol and Scott Dee. Evaluation of PRRSV vaccine efficacy following infection with PRRSV 1-7-4. J. Swine Health & Prod. 29(4):204-207. 2021.

Michael D. MacNeil, Justin W. Buchanan, Matthew L. Spangler, and El Hamidi Hay. Effects of management decisions on genetic evaluation of simulated calving records. Transl. Anim. Sci. 5:1-5. doi: 10.1093/tas/txab078 2021.

Mendonça, F. S.,  M. D. MacNeil, E. Nalerio, L. L. Cardoso, C. Giongo and F. F. Cardoso. Breed direct, maternal and heterosis effects due to Angus, Caracu, Hereford and Nelore on carcass and meat quality traits of cull cows. Livestock Science 243:104374. 2021.

Portes, J. V., G. R. O. Menezes, M. D. MacNeil, L. O.C. da Silva, A. Gondo and J. B. Neto.  Selection indices for Nellore production systems in the Brazilian Cerrado. Livestock Science 242:104309. 2020.

Khorshidi, R., M. D. MacNeil, D. P. Hays, M. K. Abo-Ismail, J. J. Crowley, E. C. Akanno,
Z. Wang and G. Plastow. Estimation of genetic parameters and trends for growth traits in Hays
Converter cattle using multiple-trait and random regression models. Livestock Science 241:104245. 2020.

Grobler, R., F. H. de Witt, E. D. Cason, O. B. Einkamerer, G. C. Josling, H. A. O’Neill, M. D. Fair, J. J. Baloyi, M. D. MacNeil and F. W. C. Neser. Training the next generation of animal scientists for South Africa. Animal Frontiers 10(3): 10-17. 2020. 

van der Westhuizen, L., M.D. MacNeil, M.M. Scholtz and F.W.C. Neser. Identification of genomic regions contributing to wet carcass syndrome in sheep. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 49, 845-856. 2019.

van der Westhuizen, L., M. D. MacNeil, M. M. Scholtz, F.W.C Neser M. Makgahlela and J. van Wyk. Genetic variability and relationships in nine South African cattle breeds using microsatellite markers. Trop. Anim. Health Prod. doi: 10.1007/s11250-019-02003-z 2019.

Cardoso, L. L., J. U. Tarouco, M. D. MacNeil, J. F. P. Lobato, M. C. Dambrós, A. K. de Freitas, T. Devincenzi, F. D. Feijó, and F. F. Cardoso. 2020. Sample size and prediction of weight and yield of individual cuts from Braford steers pistol hindquarters. Scientia Agricola . 77, e20180224, doi: 10.1590/1678-992x-2018-0224
 
Upperman, L. R., B. P. Kinghorn, M. D. MacNeil, and A. L. Van Eenennaam. 2019. Management of lethal recessive alleles in beef cattle through the use of mate selection software. Genet. Sel. 51, 36. doi: 10.1186/s12711-019-0477-3.

Akanno, E. C., C. Ekine-Dzivenu, L. H. Chen, M. Vinsky, M. K. Abo-Ismail, M. D. MacNeil, G. Plastow, J. Basarab, C. X.  Li and C. Fitzsimmons. 2019. Evaluation of a genomic-enhanced sorting system for feeder cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 97, 1066-1075. doi: 10.1093/jas/skz026.

Simões, M. R. S., Joal J. Leal, Alessandro P. Minho, Cláudia C. Gomes,  Michael D. MacNeil, Rodrigo F. Costa, Vinícius S. Junqueira, Patrícia I. Schmidt, Fernando F. Cardoso, Arione A. Boligon, and Marcos J. Yokoo. 2019. Breeding objectives of Brangus cattle in Brazil. J. Anim. Brdg. Genet. doi:10.1111/jbg.12415.

Mendonça, F. S., M. D. MacNeil, W. S. Leal, R. C. C. Azambuja, P. R. Rodrigues, and F. F. Cardoso. 2019. Crossbreeding in beef cow-calf production and efficiency: evaluation of Angus, Caracu, Hereford and Nelore breed direct, maternal and heterosis effects. Translational Anim. Sci. 3, 1286–1295. doi: 10.1093/tas/txz096.

MacNeil, M. D., M. M. Scholtz, F. J. Jordaan, and A. Maiwashe. 2019. Alternative models for genetic evaluation of feed intake by Afrikaner cattle. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 49, 763-769.

Zhang C, M. D. MacNeil, R. A. Kemp, M. K. Dyck, and G. S. Plastow. Putative loci causing early embryonic mortality in Duroc swine. Front. Genet. 9:655. 2018.

Buchanan, J. W., M. D. MacNeil, R. C. Raymond, A. R. Nilles, and A. L. Van Eenennaam. 2018. Comparison of economic returns among genetic evaluation strategies in a 2-tiered Charolais-sired beef cattle production system. J. Anim. Sci. 96:4076-4086.

​Aherin, D. G., J. M. Bormann, J. L. Heier Stamm, M. D. MacNeil, and R. L. Weaber. Decision-making tools: stochastic simulation model accounting for the impacts of biological variation on success of bovine embryo transfer programs. Transl. Anim. Sci. 2:451–462. 2018.

Akanno, E, C., L. Chen, M. K. Abo‑Ismail, J. J. Crowley, Z. Wang, C. Li, J. A. Basarab, M. D. MacNeil, and G. S. Plastow. Genome‑wide association scan for heterotic quantitative trait loci in multi‑breed and crossbred beef cattle.Genet. Sel. Evol. 50:48. 2018.

Leal, W. S., M. D. MacNeil, H. G. Carvalho, R. Z. Vaz, and F. F. Cardoso. Direct and maternal breed additive and heterosis effects on growth traits of beef cattle raised in southern Brazil. J. Anim. Sci. 96:2536-2544. 2018.

Akanno, E. C., M. K. Abo-Ismail, L. H. Chen, J. J. Crowley, Z. Q. Wang, C. X. Li, J. A.  Basarab, M. D. MacNeil, and G. S. Plastow. Modeling heterotic effects in beef cattle using genome-wide SNP-marker genotypes. J. Anim. Sci. 96:830-845. 2018.

Thallman, R. M., L. A. Kuehn, W. M. Snelling, K. J. Retallick, J. M. Bormann, H. C. Freetly, K. E. Hales, G. L. Bennett, R. L. Weaber, D. W. Moser, and M. D. MacNeil. Reducing the period of data collection for intake and gain to improve response to selection for feed efficiency in beef cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 96:854-866. 2018.

Teixeira, B. B. M., M. D. MacNeil, R. F. da Costa, N. J. L.  Dionello, M. J. Yokoo, and F, F. Cardoso. Genetic parameters and trends for traits of the Hereford and Braford breeds in Brazil. Livestk. Sci. 208:60-66. 2018.

Pienaar, L., J. P. Grobler, M. M. Scholtz, H. Swart, K. Ehlers, M. Marx, M. D. MacNeil, and F. W. C. Neser. Genetic diversity of Afrikaner cattle in southern Africa. Trop. Anim. Health Prod. 50:399-404. 2018.

MacNeil, M. D., F. F. Cardoso, and E. Hay. Genotype by environment interaction effects in genetic evaluation of preweaning gain for Line 1 Hereford cattle from Miles City, Montana. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 3833-3838. 2017.

Akanno, E. C., L. Chen, M. K. Abo-Ismail, J. J. Crowley, Z. Wang, C. Li, J. A. Basarab, M. D., and G. Plastow. Genomic prediction of breed composition and heterosis effects in Angus, Charolais, and Hereford crosses using 50K genotypes. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 97:431-438. 2017.

Manafiazar, G., J. A. Basarab, L. McKeown, J. Stewart-Smith, V. Baron, M. D. MacNeil, and G. Plastow. Optimizing feed intake recording and feed efficiency estimation to increase the rate of genetic gain for feed efficiency in beef cattle. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 97:456-465. 2017.

Mapholi, N. O., A. Maiwashe, O. Matika, V. Riggio, C. Banga, M. D. MacNeil, V. Muchenje, K. Nephawe, and K. Dzama. Genetic parameters for tick counts across months for different tick species and anatomical locations in South African Nguni cattle. Trop. Anim. Health Prod. 49:1201-1210.

Khorshidi, R., M. D. MacNeil, J. J. Crowley, M. M. Scholtz, A. Theunissen, and G. S. Plastow. Evaluating Breed Complementarity and Sexed Semen with Maternal Use of Afrikaner Germplasm. Agric. Sci. 8:507-517. 2017.

Ochsner, K. P., M. D. MacNeil, R. M. Lewis and M. L. Spangler. Economic selection index development for Beefmaster cattle II: General-purpose breeding objective. J. Anim. Sci. 95:1913-1920. 2017.

Ochsner, K. P., M. D. MacNeil, R. M. Lewis and M. L. Spangler. Economic selection index development for Beefmaster cattle I: Terminal breeding objective. J. Anim. Sci. 95:1063-1070. 2017.

Retallick, K. J., J. M. Bormann, R. L. Weaber, M. D. MacNeil, H. L. Bradford, H. C. Freetly, K. E. Hales, D. W. Moser, W. M. Snelling, R. M. Thallman and L. A. Kuehn. Genetic (co)variance and breed differences for feed intake and average daily gain to improve feed efficiency in growing cattle. J. Anim. Sci. doi:10.2527/jas2016.1260. 2017.

Waterman, R. C., T. W. Geary, M. K. Petersen, and M. D. MacNeil. Effects of reduced in utero and post-weaning nutrition on milk yield and composition in primiparous beef cows. Animal 11:84-90. 2017.

MacNeil, M. D., M. C. Mokolobate, M. M. Scholtz, F. J. Jordaan, and F.W.C Neser. Alternative approaches to evaluation of cow efficiency. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 47:188-123. 2017.

Buchanan, J. W., M. D. MacNeil, R. C. Raymond, A. R. McClain, and A. L. Van Eenennaam. Rapid Communication: Variance component estimates for Charolais-sired fed cattle and relative economic impact of bovine respiratory disease. J. Anim. Sci. 2016.94:5456-5460. 2016.

Makina, S. O., L. K. Whitacre, J. E. Decker, J. F. Taylor, M.D. MacNeil, E. van Marle-Köster, F.C. Muchadeyi, M. L Makgahlela, M. M. Scholtz, and A. Maiwashe. Insight into the genetic composition of South African Sanga cattle using dense SNP data from worldwide cattle breeds worldwide. Genet. Sel. Evol. 48:88 .

MacNeil, M. D., M.M. Scholtz, A. Theunissen and F.W.C. Neser. Crossbreeding in beef production: meta-analysis of breed means to estimate breed-specific effects on leather properties Anim. Prod. Sci. 57:811-814. 2017.

MacNeil, M. D. Value of genomics in breeding objectives for beef cattle. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia 45:794-801. 2016.

MacNeil, M. D., L. J. Alexander, J. Kantanen, I. A. Ammosov, Z. I. Ivanova,  R. G. Popov, M. Ozerov, A. Millbrooke, and M. A. Cronin. Potential Emigration of Siberian Cattle Germplasm to Chirikof Island, Alaska. J. Genetics 96:47-51. 2016.

Mapholi, N. O., A. Maiwashe, O. Matika, V. Riggio, S. C. Bishop, M. D. MacNeil C. Banga, J. F. Taylor and K. Dzama. Genome-wide association study of tick resistance in South African Nguni cattle. Ticks Tick Borne Dis. 7:487-497. 2016.

J. E. Decker, J. F. Taylor, M. A. Cronin, L. A. Alexander, J. Kantanen, A. Millbrooke, R. D. Schnabel, and M. D. MacNeil. Genetic characterization of cattle on Chirikof Island, Alaska. Heredity. doi: 10.1038/hdy.2016.7. 2016.

Makina S. O., J. F. Taylor, E. van Marle-Köster, F. C. Muchadeyi, M. L. Makgahlela, M. D. MacNeil and A. Maiwashe. Extent of Linkage Disequilibrium and Effective Population Size in Four South African Sanga Cattle Breeds. Front. Genet. 6:337. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2015.00337. 2015.

L. Pienaar, F.W.C. Neser, J.P. Groble, M.M. Scholtz and M.D. MacNeil. Pedigree analysis of the Afrikaner cattle breed. Animal Genetic Resources 57:51-56. 2015.

González-Peña, D., R. V. Knox, M. D. MacNeil and S. L. Rodriguez-Zas. Genetic gain and economic values of selection strategies including semen traits in three- and four-way crossbreeding systems for swine production J. Anim. Sci.  93:879-891. 2015.

MacNeil, M. D. and Kemp, R. A. Genetic parameter estimation and evaluation of Duroc boars for feed efficiency and component traits. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95:155-159. 2015.

Madsen, C. A., G. A. Perry, C. L. Mogck, R. F. Daly, M. D. MacNeil, and T. W. Geary. Effects of preovulatory estradiol on embryo survival and pregnancy establishment in beef cows. Anim. Repro. Sci. 158:96-103. 2015.

Theunissen, A., M.M. Scholtz, F.W.C. Neser and M.D. MacNeil. Crossbreeding to increase beef production: Additive and non-additive effects on fitness traits. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 44:335-341. 2014.

Makina S. O., F. C. Muchadeyi, E. van Marle-Köster, M. D. MacNeil and A. Maiwashe. Genetic diversity and population structure among six cattle breeds in South Africa using a whole genome SNP panel. Frontiers in Genetics, Livestock Genomics 5:333. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00333. 2014.

Mapholi,N.O., M. C. Marufu, A. Maiwashe, C. B. Banga, V. Muchenje, M. D. MacNeil, M. Chimonyo and K. Dzama. Towards a genomics approach to tick (Acari:Ixodidae) control in cattle: A review. Ticks Tick-borne Diseases. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ttbdis.2014.04.006. 2014.

Reisenauer-Leesburg, V.L., M.D. MacNeil and F.W.C. Neser. 2014. Influence of Miles City Line 1 on the Hereford population of the United States. J. Anim. Sci. 92:2387-2394. 2014.

Ramatsoma, N.I., C. B. Banga, M. D. MacNeil, A. Maiwashe. Evaluation of genetic trends for traits of economic importance in South African Holstein cattle. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 44:85-89. 2014.

Matjuda, L. E., M.D. MacNeil, A. Maiwashe, V.R. Leesburg, and M. Malatje. Index-in-retrospect and breeding objectives characterizing genetic improvement programmes for South African Nguni cattle. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 44:161-172. 2014.

Cronin, M. A., G. Rincon, R. W. Meredith, M. D. MacNeil, A. Islas-Trejo, A. Canovas, and J. F. Medrano. Molecular Phylogeny and SNP Variation of Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus), Brown Bears (U-arctos), and Black Bears (U-americanus) Derived from Genome Sequences. J. Heredity  105:312-323. 2015.

Nielsen, M. K., M.D. MacNeil, J.C.M. Dekkers, D.H. Crews, Jr., T.A. Rathje, R.M. Enns and R.L. Weaber. Life-Cycle, Total-industry genetic improvement of feed efficiency in beef cattle: Blueprint for the Beef Improvement Federation. Prof. Anim. Scientist 29:559-565. 2013

Pohler, K. G., T. W. Geary, C. L. Johnson, J. A. Atkins, E. M. Jinks, D. C. Busch, J. A. Green, M. D. MacNeil, and M. F. Smith. Circulating bovine pregnancy associated glycoproteins are associated with late embryonic/fetal survival but not ovulatory follicle size in suckled beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 91:4158-4167. 2013.

Cronin, M. A., M. D. MacNeil, N. Vu, V. Leesburg, H. D. Blackburn, and J. N. Derr. Genetic variation and differentiation of bison (Bison bison) subspecies and cattle (Bos taurus) breeds and subspecies. J. Hered. 104:500-509. 2013.

Theunissen, A., M.M. Scholtz, F.W.C. Neser and M. D. MacNeil. Crossbreeding to increase beef production Additive and non-additive effects on weight traits. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 43:143-152. 2013.

Leesburg, V.L.R., M.D. MacNeil, E. Van Marle-Koster, O. Mapholi, and F.W.C. Neser. Impact of Line 1 germplasm on South African Hereford cattle. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 43:153-158. 2013.

Jinks, E. M., M. F. Smith, J. A. Atkins, K. G. Pohler, G. A. Perry, M. D. MacNeil, A. J. Roberts, R. C. Waterman, L. J. Alexander, and T. W. Geary. Preovulatory estradiol and the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in suckled beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 91:1176-1185. 2013.
 
Atkins, J. A., M. F. Smith, M. D. MacNeil, E. M. Jinks, F. M. Abreu, L. J. Alexander, and T. W. Geary. Pregnancy establishment and maintenance in cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 91:722-733. 2013.
 
MacNeil, M. D., M.M. Scholtz and A. Maiwashe. Estimates of variance components of postweaning feed intake and growth in Bonsmara bulls and evaluation of feed efficiency. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 43:18-24. 2013.

Geary, T. W., M. F. Smith, M. D. MacNeil, M. L. Day, G. A. Bridges, G. A. Perry, F. M. Abreu, J. A. Atkins, K. G. Pohler, E. M. Jinks, and C. A. Madsen. Influence of follicular characteristics at ovulation on early embryo survival. J. Anim. Sci. 91:3014-3021. 2013.

Cronin, M. A. and M. D. MacNeil. Genetic relationships of extant brown bears (Ursus arctos) and polar bears (U. maritimus). J. Hered. 103:873-881. 2012.

MacNeil, M. D. and L. T. Vermeire. Effect of weather patterns on preweaning growth of beef calves in the Northern Great Plains. Agricultural Sciences 3:929-935. 2012.

Fouts, Derrick E, Sebastian Szpakowski, Janaki Purushe, Manolito Torralba, Richard C. Waterman, Michael D. MacNeil, Leeson J. Alexander, and Karen E. Nelson. Next generation sequencing to define prokaryotic and fungal diversity in the bovine rumen. PLoS ONE 7(11): e48289. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0048289

Huang,Y., C. Maltecca, M. D. MacNeil, L. J. Alexander, W.  M. Snelling and J. P. Cassady. Using 50K single nucleotide polymorphisms to elucidate genomic architecture of Line 1 Hereford cattle. Frontiers in Livestock Genomics. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2012.00285. 2012.

Huang, Y., C. Maltecca, J. P. Cassady, L. J. Alexander, W. M. Snelling and M. D. MacNeil. Effects of reduced panel, reference origin, and genetic relationship on imputation of genotypes in Hereford cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 90:4203-4208. 2012.

Waterman, R. C., A. J. Roberts, T. W. Geary, E. E. Grings, L. J. Alexander and M. D. MacNeil.  Effect of reduced heifer nutrition during in utero and post-weaning development on glucose and acetate kinetics. British J. Nutr. 106: 1702-1712. 2011.

Tang, G., J. Stewart-Smith, G. Plastow, S. Moore, J. Basarab, M. D. MacNeil, and Z. Wang. Optimizing a beef production system using specialized sire and dam lines. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 91:353-361. 2011.

MacNeil, M. D., N. Lopez-Villalobos and S. L. Northcutt. A prototype national cattle evaluation for feed intake and efficiency of Angus cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 89:3917-3923. 2011.

Jiang, Z. H., J. J. Michal, X. L. Wu, Z. X. Pan, and M. D. MacNeil. The Heparan and Heparin Metabolism Pathway is Involved in Regulation of Fatty Acid Composition. International J. Biol. Sci. 7:659-663. 2011.

MacNeil, M. D. and N. Vukasinovic. A prototype national cattle evaluation for sustained reproductive success in Hereford cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 89:1712-1718. 2011.

Geary, T. W., R. P. Ansotegui, M. D. MacNeil, A. J. Roberts, and R. C. Waterman. Effects of flunixin meglumine on pregnancy establishment in beef cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 88:943-949. 2010.

MacNeil, M. D., J. D. Nkrumah, B.W. Woodward and S. L. Northcutt. Genetic evaluation of Angus cattle for carcass marbling using ultrasound and genomic indicators. J. Anim. Sci. 88:517-522. 2010.

Daniels, T. F., X. L. Wu, Z. X. Pan, J. J. Michal, R. W. Wright, K. M. Killinger, M. D. MacNeil, and Z. H. Jiang. 2010. The Reverse Cholesterol Transport Pathway Improves Understanding of Genetic Networks for Fat Deposition and Muscle Growth in Beef Cattle. PLOS One 5:(12)e15203. 2010.

Chitko-McKown, C. G. and M. D. MacNeil. Development of fibroblast cell lines from the cow used to sequence the bovine genome. Anim. Genet. 41:445. 2010.

Jiang, Z. H., J. J. Michal, J. Chen, T. F. Daniels, T. Kunej, M. D. Garcia, C. T. Gaskins, J. R.  Busboom, L. J. Alexander, R. W. Wright, and M. D. MacNeil. Discovery of novel genetic networks associated with 19 economically important traits in beef cattle. International J. Biol. Sci. 5:528-542. 2009.

Marquez, G. C., R. M. Enns, M. D. Grosz, L. J. Alexander and M. D. MacNeil. Quantitative trait loci with effects on feed efficiency traits in Hereford • composite double backcross populations. Anim. Genet. 40:986-988. 2009.

Roberts, A. J., T. W. Geary, E. E. Grings, R. C. Waterman, and M. D. MacNeil. Reproductive performance of heifers offered ad libitum or restricted access to feed for a one hundred forty-day period after weaning. J. Anim. Sci. 87: 3043-3052. 2009.

MacNeil M. D. Invited Review: Research contributions from seventy-five years of breeding Line 1 Hereford cattle at Miles City, Montana. J. Anim. Sci.  87:2489-2501. 2009.

Alexander, L. J., L. A. Kuehn, T. P. L. Smith, L. K. Matukumalli, B. Mote, J. E. Koltes, J. Reecy, T. W. Geary, D. C. Rule and M. D. MacNeil. A Limousin specific myostatin allele affects longissimus muscle area and fatty acid profiles in a Wagyu-Limousin F2 population. J. Anim. Sci. 87:1576-1581. 2009.

M. L. Spangler, K. R. Robbins, J. K. Bertrand, M. MacNeil, and R. Rekaya. Ant colony optimization as a method for strategic genotype sampling. Anim. Genet. 40:308-314. 2009.

The Bovine Genome Sequencing and Analysis Consortium. The Genome Sequence of Taurine Cattle: A Window to Ruminant Biology and Evolution. Science 324:522-528. 2009.

Tshipuliso N. O. M., L.J. Alexander, A. Koptze. K. Ehlers, V. L. Reisenauer Leesburg and M.D. MacNeil. Structural assessment of backcrossing using microsatellite markers. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 38:290-292. 2008.

Tshipuliso N. O. M., L.J. Alexander, T.W. Geary, W.M. Snelling, D.C. Rule, J.E. Koltes and B.E. Mote and M.D. MacNeil. Mapping quantitative trait loci for fatty acid composition that segregate between Wagyu and Limousin. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 38:126-130. 2008.

MacNeil, M. D. and S. L. Northcutt. National cattle evaluation system for combined analysis of carcass characteristics and indicator traits recorded using ultrasound in Angus cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 86:2518-2524. 2008.

Spangler, M. L., R. L. Sapp, J. K. Bertrand, M. D. MacNeil, and R. Rekaya. Different methods of selecting animals for genotyping to maximize the amount of genetic information known in the population J. Anim. Sci. 86:2471-2479. 2008.

Jiang Z., J. J. Michal, D. J. Tobey, Z. Wang, M. D. MacNeil, and N. S. Magnuson. Comparative understanding of UTS2 and UTS2R genes for their involvement in type 2 diabetes mellitus. International J. Biol. Sci. 4:96-102. 2008.

MacNeil M.D., Haferkamp, M.R., Vermeire, L.T., and Muscha, J.M. Prescribed fire and grazing effects on carbon dynamics in a northern mixed-grass prairie. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment 127:66-72.   2008.

Grings, E. E., A. J. Roberts, T. W. Geary, and M. D. MacNeil. Milk yield of primiparous beef cows from three calving systems and two weaning ages. J. Anim. Sci. 86:768-779. 2008.

Waterman, R. C., E. E. Grings, T. W. Geary, A. J. Roberts, L. J. Alexander, and M. D. MacNeil. Influence of seasonal forage quality on glucose kinetics for young beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 85:2582-2595. 2007.

Roberts, A. J., S. I. Paisley, T. W. Geary, E. E. Grings, R. C. Waterman, and M. D. MacNeil. Effects of restricted feeding of beef heifers during the postweaning period on growth, efficiency and ultrasound carcass characteristics. J. Anim. Sci. 85:2740-2745. 2007.

Grings, E. E., T. W. Geary, R. E. Short, and M. D. MacNeil. Beef heifer development within three calving systems. J. Anim. Sci. 85:2048-2058. 2007.

Alexander, L. J., M. D. MacNeil, T. W. Geary, W. M. Snelling, D. C. Rule, and J. A. Scanga. Quantitative trait loci with additive effect on palatability and fatty acid composition of meat in a Wagyu-Limousin F2 population. Anim. Genet. 38:506-513. 2007.

Alexander, L. J., T.W. Geary, W.M. Snelling, and M.D. MacNeil. Quantitative trait loci with additive effects on growth and carcass traits in a Wagyu-Limousin F2 population. Anim. Genet. 38:413-416. 2007.

MacNeil, M. D., M. A. Cronin, H. D. Blackburn, and L. J. Alexander. Genetic relationships between feral cattle from Chirikof Island, Alaska and other breeds. Anim. Genet. 38:193-197. 2007.

M. L. Merrill, R. P. Ansotegui, P. D. Burns, M. D. MacNeil, and T. W. Geary. Effects of flunixin meglumine and transportation on pregnancy establishment in beef cows. J. Anim. Sci. 85:1547-1554. 2007.

MacNeil, M. D. and E. Matjuda. Breeding objectives for Angus and Charolais specialized sire lines for use in the emerging sector of South African beef production. South African J. Anim. Sci. 37(1):1-10. 2007.

Perry, G. A., M. F. Smith, A. J. Roberts, M. D. MacNeil, and T. W. Geary. Relationship between size of ovulatory follicle and pregnancy success in beef heifers. J. Anim. Sci. 85:684-689. 2007.

Cronin, M. A., M. D. MacNeil and J. C. Patton. Mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite DNA variation in domestic reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) and relationships with wild caribou (R. t. granti, R. t. groenlandicus, R. t. caribou). J. Heredity 97:525-530. 2006.

MacNeil, M. D., T. W. Geary, G. A. Perry, A. J. Roberts and L. J. Alexander. Genetic partitioning of variation in ovulatory follicle size and probability of pregnancy. J. Anim. Sci. 84:1646-1650. 2006.

MacNeil, M. D., V. R. Leesburg, and T. B. Mott. Validating the breeding value for maternal preweaning gain in beef cattle with measured milk production. S. Afr. J. Anim. Sci. 36(5):1-4. 2006.

MacNeil, M. D. and T. B. Mott. Genetic analysis of gain from birth to weaning, milk production and udder conformation in Line 1 Hereford cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 84:1639-1645. 2006.

Geary, T. W., E. E. Grings, M. D. MacNeil, D. M. de Avila, and J. J. Reeves. Use of recombinant gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antigens for immunosterilization of beef heifers. J. Anim. Sci. 84:343:350. 2006.

Kealey, C. G., M. D. MacNeil, M. W. Tess, T. W. Geary and R. A. Bellows. Genetic parameters for scrotal circumference and semen characteristics of Line 1 Hereford bulls. J. Anim. Sci. 84:283-290. 2006.

Grings, E. E., R. E. Short, K. D. Klement, T. W. Geary, M. D. MacNeil, M. R. Haferkamp, and R. K. Heitschmidt. Calving system and weaning age effects on cow and preweaning calf performance in the Northern Great Plains. J. Anim Sci. 83: 2671-2683. 2005.

Wu, X. L., M. D. MacNeil, S. De, Q. J. Xiao, J. J. Michal, C. T. Gaskins, J. J. Reeves, J. R. Busboom, R. W. Wright Jr. and Z. Jiang. Evaluation of candidate gene effects for beef backfat via Bayesian model selection. Genetica 125:103-113. 2005.

Perry, G. A., M. F. Smith, M. C. Lucy, J. A. Green, T. E. Parks, M. D. MacNeil, A. J. Roberts, and T. W. Geary. Relationship between follicle size at insemination and pregnancy success. Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. 102:5268-5273. 2005.

MacNeil. M. D. Genetic evaluation of the ratio of calf weaning weight to cow weight. J. Anim. Sci. 83:794-802. 2005.

Haferkamp, M. R., M. D. MacNeil, E. E. Grings, and K. D. Klement. Heifer production on rangeland and seeded forages in the Northern Great Plains. Rangeland Ecology & Management 58:495-504. 2005.

Haferkamp, M. R., M. D. MacNeil, and E. E. Grings. Predicting nitrogen content in the northern mixed-grass prairie. Rangeland Ecology & Management 58:155-160. 2005.

Cronin, M. A., M. D. MacNeil, and J. C. Patton. Mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite DNA variation in Caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in Northern Alaska and Canada. J. Mammalogy 86:495-505. 2005.

Senneke, S., L. D. VanVleck, and M. D. MacNeil.  Effects of sire misidentification on estimates of genetic parameters for birth weight and weaning weight of Hereford cattle.  J. Anim. Sci. 82:2307-2312. 2004.

Rogers, P. L., C. T. Gaskins, K. A. Johnson, and M. D. MacNeil.  Evaluating longevity of composite beef females using survival analysis techniques. J. Anim. Sci. 82:860-866.  2004.

Haferkamp, M. R. and M. D. MacNeil.  Grazing effects on carbon dynamics in the northern mixed-grass prairie.  Environmental Management.  33(Suppl. 1.):S462-S479. 2004.

MacNeil, M. D.  Genetic evaluation of an index of birth weight and yearling weight to improve efficiency of beef production.  J. Anim. Sci.  81:2425-2433. 2003.

Cronin, M. A., J. C. Patton, N. Balmysheva, and M. D. MacNeil.  Genetic variation in caribou and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus).  Animal Genetics 33:33-41.  2003.

Sowell, B. F., J.G.P. Bowman, E. E. Grings, and M. D. MacNeil.  Liquid supplement and forage intake by range beef cows.  J. Anim. Sci. 81:294-303.  2003.

Geary, T. W., E. L. McFadin, M. D. MacNeil, E. E. Grings, R. E. Short, R. N. Funston, and D. H. Keisler.  Leptin as a predictor of carcass composition in beef cattle.  J. Anim. Sci. 81:1-8. 2003.

Short, R. E., M. D. MacNeil, M. D. Grosz, D. E. Gerrard, and E. E. Grings.  Pleiotropic effects in Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese F2 crossbred calves of genes controlling muscularity including the Piedmontese myostatin allele.  J. Anim. Sci. 80:1-11.  2002.

Haferkamp, M. R., E. E. Grings, R. K. Heitschmidt, and M. D. MacNeil.  Quality and persistence of forages in the Northern Great Plains.  J. Range Manage.  55:482-487. 2002.

MacNeil, M. D. and Grosz, M. D.  Genome-wide scans for QTL affecting carcass traits in Hereford x composite double backcross populations.  J. Anim. Sci.  80:2316-2324. 2002.

Haferkamp, M. R., R. K. Heitschmidt, E. E. Grings, M. D. MacNeil, and M. G. Karl.  Suppression of annual bromes impacts rangeland:  Vegetation responses.  J. Range Manage. 54:656-662. 2001.

Haferkamp, M. R., E. E. Grings, R. K. Heitschmidt, M. D. MacNeil, and M. G. Karl.  Suppression of annual bromes impacts rangeland:  Animal responses.  J. Range Manage. 54:663-668. 2001.

MacNeil, M. D., R. E. Short, and E. E. Grings.  Characterization of topcross progenies from Hereford, Limousin, and Piedmontese sires.  J. Anim. Sci. 79:1751-1756.  2001.

Geary, T. W., J. C. Whittier, D. M. Hallford, and M. D. MacNeil.  Calf removal improves conception rates to the Ovsynch and CO-Synch protocols.  J. Anim. Sci. 79:1-4.  2001.

Grings, E. E., R. E. Short, M. D. MacNeil, R. A. Roeder, and M. J. Roeder.  Interactions in postweaning production of F1 cattle from Hereford, Limousin, or Piedmontese sires.  J. Anim. Sci. 79:317-324.  2001.

Grosz, M. D. and M. D. MacNeil.  Putative quantitative trait locus affecting birth weight on bovine chromosome 2.  J. Anim. Sci. 79:68-72.  2001.

MacNeil, M. D., J. J. Urick, and G. Decoudu.  Characteristics of Line 1 Hereford females resulting from selection by independent culling levels for below-average birth weight and high yearling weight or by mass selection for high yearling weight.  J. Anim. Sci. 78:2292-2298.  2000.

MacNeil, M. D. and T. B. Mott.  Using genetic evaluations for growth and maternal gain from birth to weaning to predict energy requirements of Line 1 Hereford beef cows.  J. Anim. Sci. 78:2299-2304.  2000.

Ferreira, G. B., M. D. MacNeil, and L. D. Van Vleck.  Variance components and breeding values for growth traits from different statistical models.  J. Anim. Sci. 77:2641-2650.  1999.

MacNeil, M. D., R. E. Short, and J. J. Urick.  Progeny testing sires selected by independent culling levels for below-average birth weight and high yearling weight or by mass selection for high yearling weight.  J. Anim. Sci. 77:2345-2351.  1999.

Grings, E. E., R. B. Staigmiller, R. E. Short, R. A. Bellows, and M. D. MacNeil.  Effects of stair-step nutrition and trace mineral supplementation on attainment of puberty in beef heifers of three sire breeds.  J. Anim. Sci. 77:810-815.  1999.

Lammoglia, M. A., R. A. Bellows, E. E. Grings, J. W. Bergman, R. E. Short, and M. D. MacNeil.  Effects of feeding beef females supplemental fat during gestation on cold tolerance in newborn calves.  J. Anim. Sci. 77:824-834.  1999.

Grosz, M. D. and M. D. MacNeil.  The "spotted" locus maps to bovine chromosome 6 in a Hereford-cross population.  J. Heredity 90(1):233-236.  1999.

Pariacote, F., L. D. Van Vleck, and M. D. MacNeil.  Effects of inbreeding and heterozygosity on preweaning traits in a closed population of Herefords under selection.  J. of Anim. Sci.  76(5):1303-1310.  1998.

Lammoglia, M. A., R. E. Short, S. E. Bellows, R. A. Bellows, M. D. MacNeil, and H. D. Hafs.  Induced and synchronized estrus in cattle:  Dose titration of estradiol benzoate in peripubertal heifers and postpartum cows after treatment with an intravaginal progesterone-releasing insert and prostaglandin F2α.  J. Anim. Sci. 76:1662-1670. 1998.

MacNeil, M. D., J. J. Urick, and W. M. Snelling.  Comparison of selection by independent culling levels for below average birth weight and high yearling weight with mass selection for high yearling weight in Line 1 Hereford cattle.  J. Anim. Sci.  76:458-467. 1998.

Gengler, N., L. D. Van Vleck, M. D. MacNeil, I. Misztal, and F. A. Pariacote.  Influence of dominance relationships on estimation of dominance variance with sire-dam subclass effects.  J. Anim. Sci. 75:2885-2891. 1997.

Hall, J. B., R. B. Staigmiller, R. E. Short, R. A. Bellows, M. D. MacNeil, and S. E. Bellows.  Effect of age and pattern of gain on induction of puberty with a progestin in beef heifers.  J. Anim. Sci. 75:1606-1611.  1997.

Rule, D. C., M. D. MacNeil, and R. E. Short.  Influence of sire growth potential, time on feed, and growing-finishing strategy on cholestrol and fatty acids of the ground carcass and longissimus muscle of beef steers.  J. Anim. Sci. 75(6):1525-1533.  1997.

Grings, E. E., R. E. Short, M D. MacNeil, M. R. Haferkamp, and D. C. Adams. Efficiency of production in cattle of two growth potentials on Northern Great Plains rangelands during spring-summer grazing.  J. Anim. Sci. 74:2317-2326.  1996.

MacNeil, M. D. and W. M. Snelling. Systematic error in genetic evaluation of Miles City Line 1 Hereford cattle resulting from preadjustment for age of dam.  J. Anim. Sci. 74:1794-1800. 1996.

Moody, D. E., D. Pomp, S. Newman, and M. D. MacNeil.  Characterization of DNA polymorphisms in three populations of Hereford cattle and their associations with growth and maternal EPD in Line 1 Herefords.  J. Anim. Sci. 74:1784-1793. 1996.

Short, R. E., E. E. Grings, M. D. MacNeil, R. K. Heitschmidt, M. R. Haferkamp, and D. C. Adams.  Effects of time of weaning, supplement, and sire breed of calf during the fall grazing period on cow and calf performance.  J. Anim. Sci. 74(7):1701-1710. 1996.

Snelling, W. M., M. D. MacNeil, D. D. Kress, D. C. Anderson, and M. W. Tess.    Factors influencing genetic evaluations of linebred Hereford cattle in diverse environments.  J. Anim. Sci. 74:1499-1510. 1996.

Staigmiller, R. B., M. D. MacNeil, R. A. Bellows, R. E. Short, and D. A. Phelps.  The effect of estrus synchronization scheme, injection protocol and large ovarian follicle on response to superovulation in beef heifers.  Theriogenology  43:823-834. 1995.

Jenkins, T. G., K. A. Leymaster, and M. D. MacNeil.  Development and evaluation of a regression equation for prediction of fat-free soft tissue in heterogenous populations of cattle.  J. Anim. Sci. 73:3627-3632. 1995.

Haferkamp, M. R., D. Palmquist, J. A. Young, and M. D. MacNeil. Influence of temperature on germination of Japanese brome seed. J. Range Mgt. 48(3):264-266. 1995.

MacNeil, M. D. and S. Newman. Genetic analysis of calving date in Miles City Line 1 Hereford cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 72:3073-3079. 1994.

Tess, M. W. and M. D. MacNeil. Evaluation of cytoplasmic genetic effects in Miles City Line 1 Hereford cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 72:851-856. 1994.

Haferkamp, M. R., M. G. Karl, and M. D. MacNeil. Influence of storage, temperature, and light on germination of Japanese brome seed. J. Range Mgt. 47:140-144. 1994.

MacNeil, M. D. and S. Newman. Selection indices for Canadian beef production using specialized sire and dam lines. Canadian J. Anim. Sci. 74:419-424.  1994.

MacNeil, M. D., S. Newman, R. M. Enns, and J. Stewart-Smith. Relative economic values for Canadian beef production using specialized sire and dam lines. Canadian J. Anim. Sci.  74:411-417.  1994.

Newman, S., M. D. MacNeil, W. L. Reynolds, B. W. Knapp, and J. J. Urick. Fixed effects in the formation of a composite line of beef cattle II. Pre- and postweaning growth and carcass composition. J. Anim. Sci. 71:2033-2039. 1993.

Newman, S., M. D. MacNeil, W. L. Reynolds, B. W. Knapp, and J. J. Urick. Fixed effects in the formation of a composite line of beef cattle I. Experimental design and reproductive performance. J. Anim. Sci. 71:2026-2032. 1993.

MacNeil, M. D., J. J. Urick, S. Newman, and B. W. Knapp.  Selection for postweaning growth in inbred Hereford cattle:  the Fort Keogh, Montana Line 1 Example.  J. Anim. Sci. 70:723-733. 1992.

MacNeil, M. D., D. R. C. Bailey, J. J. Urick, R. P. Gilbert, and W. L. Reynolds.  Heritabilities and genetic correlations for postweaning growth and feed intake of beef bulls and steers.  J. Anim. Sci.  69:3183-3189.  1991.

Adams, D. C., R. E. Short, M. M. Borman, and M. D. MacNeil.  Estimation of fecal output with an intra-ruminal continuous release marker device.  J. Range Mgt.  44:204-207.  1991.

Urick, J. J., M. D. MacNeil, and W. L. Reynolds.  Biological type effects on postweaning growth, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics of steers.  J. Anim. Sci.  69:490-497.  1991.

Dickson, J. S. and M. D. MacNeil.  Contamination of beef tissue surfaces by cattle manure inoculated with Salmonella typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes.  J. Food Protection  54:102-104.  1991.


Bellows, R. A., R. E. Short, G. P. Kitto, R. B. Staigmiller, and M. D. MacNeil.  Influence of sire, sex of fetus and type of pregnancy on conceptus development.  Theriogenology  34:941-954.  1990.

MacNeil, M. D., D. D. Dearborn, L. V. Cundiff, C. A. Dinkel, and K. E. Gregory.  Effects of inbreeding and heterosis in Hereford females on fertility, calf survival and preweaning growth.  J. Anim. Sci.  67:895-901.  1989.

MacNeil, M. D., K. E. Gregory, and J. J. Ford.  Management of yearling bulls in a feedlot.  J. Anim. Sci.  67:858-864.  1989.

MacNeil, M. D. and D. L. Harris.  Highly aggregated simulation models.  J. Anim. Sci.  66:2517-2523.  1988.

MacNeil, M. D., L. V. Cundiff, K. E. Gregory, and R. M. Koch.  Crossbreeding systems for beef production.  Applied Agric. Res.  3:44-54.  1988.

MacNeil, M. D.  Formation of optimal composite populations.  Theor. Appl. Genet.  74:837-840.  1987.

Mersmann, H. J., M. D. MacNeil, S. C. Seideman, and W. G. Pond.  Compensatory growth in finishing pigs after feed restriction.  J. Anim. Sci.  64:752-764.  1987.

Elmore, R. W., M. D. MacNeil, and R. F. Mumm.  Determinate and indeterminate soybeans in low-yield and high-yield environments.  Applied Agric. Res.  2:74-80.  1987.

Mersmann, H. J. and M. D. MacNeil.  Variables in estimation of porcine adipocyte size and number with a particle counter.  J. Anim. Sci.  62:980-991.  1986.

Mersmann, H. J. and M. D. MacNeil.  Relationship of plasma lipid concentrations to fat deposition in pigs.  J. Anim. Sci.  61:122-128.  1985.

MacNeil, M. D., D. D. Kress, A. E. Flower, and R. L. Blackwell.  Effects of mating system in Japanese quail.  2. Genetic parameters, response and correlated response to selection.  Theor. Appl. Genet.  67:407-412.  1984.

MacNeil, M. D., D. D. Kress, A. E. Flower, R. P. Webb, and R. L. Blackwell.  Effects of mating system in Japanese quail.  1. Inbreeding and fitness.  Theor. Appl. Genet.  67:403-406.  1984.

MacNeil, M. D., L. V. Cundiff, C. A. Dinkel, and R. M. Koch.  Genetic correlations among sex-limited traits in beef cattle.  J. Anim. Sci.  58:1171-1180.  1984.

Cross, H. R., J. D. Crouse, and M. D. MacNeil.  Influence of breed, sex, age and electrical stimulation on carcass and palatability traits of three bovine muscles.  J. Anim. Sci. 58:1358-1365.  1984.

MacNeil, M. D. and L. J. Koong.  Improvements to the mathematical description of prenatal growth.  Growth 47:371-380.  1983. MacNeil, M. D.  Choice of a prediction equation and the use of the selected equation in subsequent experimentation.  J. Anim. Sci. 57:1328-1336.  1983.

MacNeil, M. D., C. A. Dinkel, and L. D. VanVleck.  Individual and maternal additive and heterotic effects on 205-day weight in beef cattle.  J. Anim. Sci. 54:951-956.  1982.