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Changes of some haematochemical parameters in dairy cows during late gestation, post partum, lactation and dry periods
Abstract
The period of transition between late pregnancy and early lactation presents an important metabolic challenge to the high-yielding dairy cows. They need, especially for the high milk yield, more nutrients and energy supply than other animals. The aim of this study was to attempt at providing a complete picture of dynamics of selected biochemical blood parameters in dairy cows from late pregnancy to dry period, giving new and useful information about the guidelines for the management strategies during different physiological phases. The study was carried out on five clinically healthy dairy cows, breed Holstein Friesian, in good nutritional condition. All the experimental subjects were selected on the basis of their pregnancy and lactation status, so blood samples were collected two days before the expected parturition (Late gestation), during the post partum, in early lactation, during the 2nd, 5th and 15th weeks after parturition, at the end of lactation and at the dry period. On each serum sample urea, creatinine, total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate, total and indirect bilirubins, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium were determined. On all data, normally distributed (P<0.05, Kolmogorov-Smirnov's Test), one-way Repeated Measure Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to evaluate the influence of the reproduction status on the considered parameters. A significant effect of the physiological phase was observed on urea, creatinine, total proteins, total cholesterol, triglycerides, NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate, calcium and phosphorus. Our data confirm that the lactation period is the more sensible, by a metabolic point of view, for the high production dairy cow, so the information, provided in this paper, advance the continuous investigation in animal welfare and can be a useful tool in managing and preventing the deficiencies typical of high production ruminants.
... Serum creatinine was significantly lower during early lactation and highest in non-lactating animals. Our findings were in accordance with Piccione et al. (2012) who reported significant (p<0.05) effect of lactation stages on serum creatinine values. ...
... As shown in Table 2, serum cholesterol was significantly lower during early lactation and highest during mid-lactation than other stages of lactation and non-lactating animals. Similarly, Piccione et al, (2012) and Abd-El Naser et al, 2014 reported lower serum cholesterol during early lactation and higher during mid-lactation. This might be due to an increase in the energy demands for regulatory mechanisms responsible for the processes involved in preparation of milking (Roche et al., 2009). ...
... As shown in Table 4, total bilirubin concentration progressively decreased as lactation stages advanced, however, the difference was non-significant (p>0.05). Similarly, Piccione et al. (2012) reported non-significant effect of stage of lactation on total bilirubin values. Serum ALT activity was significantly higher during mid-lactation as compared to other lactation stages and non-lactating animals. ...
Background: The indigenous cattle of Uttarakhand, Badri is the first registered cattle breed of the state, mainly reared in Kumaon and Garhwal regions. The present study was carried out in forty healthy cows to evaluate the effect of lactation stages on biochemical entities. Methods: Forty healthy animals were selected and divided into five groups with eight animals in each group during different stages of lactation viz. 0 to 60 days, 61 to 120 days, 121 to 180 days, 181 to 240 days and non-lactating animals. Blood samples were collected during different lactation stages and non-lactation period and serum was harvested. On each serum sample total protein, albumin, globulin, A:G ratio, urea, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, calcium, phosphorus, Ca:P, total bilirubin, ALT, AST, ALP, GGT and CK were determined spectrophotometrically. Result: A significant effect of stages of lactation on serum total protein, albumin, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, phosphorus, Ca: P, ALT, ALP and CK was observed (p less than 0.05).
... Due to the increasing proportion of heifers and primiparous cows in dairy herds, parity should be considered when interpreting metabolic profiles. Previous studies that describe the influences of lactation and parity on biochemical parameters were characterized by low sample sizes, short-lasting observation intervals, and impacts due to season and feeding [6,7,11,12]. Additionally, to the best of our knowledge, there are few studies available that describe the variation in the parameters of acid base status in urine, such as net acid base excretion (NABE), mineral excretion during the transition period, and the ongoing lactation [13][14][15]. ...
... Cholesterol serum concentrations ( Figure 4) in both primiparous and multiparous cows decrease prepartum, in accordance with other studies [7,46] that report a declining trend during the dry period towards calving, down to 1.6 mmol/L for fresh cows [12]. Our results show a nadir at parturition. ...
... In accordance with Moretti et al. [36], who report higher values 30 DIM compared to 3 DIM, we observe a slight increase in urea concentrations with ongoing lactation, while variations are constant. The highest mean level among multiparous cows is reached at 76-300 DIM, which is similar to the descriptions of previous literature [12,27]. Roubies et al. [49] explain that, as a result of increased requirements for milk synthesis, there are higher concentrations in lactating non-pregnant sheep than in dry pregnant sheep with higher dietary proteins intake during lactation than in late pregnancy. ...
Metabolic monitoring is a tool that is helpful with the increasing requirements regarding feeding and health management in dairy herds. This study aimed at describing the trend and variability of different biochemical parameters in blood and urine in relation to the stages of lactation and parity, in a retrospective analysis of laboratory data from clinically healthy German Holstein cows. The results were derived from metabolic monitoring in Thuringia (Germany), during 2009–2019. A total of 361,584 measured values, of 13 different metabolic variables, were assigned to parity (primiparous and multiparous) and stage of lactation (10 classes from −30 to 300 days in milk). The Kruskal–Wallis test was applied for the evaluation of differences regarding parity or the stage of lactation. Non-esterified fatty acids, beta hydroxybutyrate, and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase in serum were clearly affected by parity and lactation. Serum concentrations of cholesterol, bilirubin, and phosphorus, as well as the serum activity of glutamate dehydrogenase, were affected by the stage of lactation, while parity impacted urea concentration. The serum activity of creatine kinase, serum concentrations of calcium, and urine concentrations of net acid base excretion, potassium, and sodium were not affected by parity or lactation. In conclusion, specific reference limits, with respect to parity and the stage of lactation, are necessary.
... The peri-parturient phase has a significant impact on the health and subsequent performance of dairy animals since they undergo significant metabolic and physiological changes during this time (Alharthi et al., 2021;Piccione et al., 2012). Negative energy balance (NEB) during early lactation is one of the common physiological causes of oxidative stress and health concerns in dairy animals (Elsayed et al., 2017;Piccione et al., 2012;Saqib et al., 2018;Ullah et al., 2019b). ...
... The peri-parturient phase has a significant impact on the health and subsequent performance of dairy animals since they undergo significant metabolic and physiological changes during this time (Alharthi et al., 2021;Piccione et al., 2012). Negative energy balance (NEB) during early lactation is one of the common physiological causes of oxidative stress and health concerns in dairy animals (Elsayed et al., 2017;Piccione et al., 2012;Saqib et al., 2018;Ullah et al., 2019b). ...
... The objective of the present study was to understand the impact of pre-partum BCS and lactation numbers on metabolic attributes, milk yield, stress indicators and resumption of ovarian activity in dairy buffaloes during postpartum period. Changes in biochemical indices occur as a result of increased metabolic demands during both pregnancy and lactation, despite haemostatic systems that function to maintain blood parameters within physiological levels (Piccione et al., 2012). The need for the regulatory mechanism, responsible for the process involved in milking increases throughout the peri-partum period. ...
The aim of this study was to determine the metabolic status, stress and ovarian activity through progesterone profile in dairy buffalo as influenced by post-partum days, body condition score (BCS) and lactation number. A total of 45 dairy buffaloes were involved and divided into three factors based on their BCS (2.5, 3.0 and 3.5, respectively), lactation number (1, 2 and 3, respectively), and post-partum intervals (14, 28, 42, and 56, respectively). Based on findings, from day 14 to day 56 after parturition, blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels increased significantly (P<0.01) , while malondialdehyde (MDA) and cortisol levels decreased significantly (P<0.05) on day 56 of the trial. With increased BCS levels, milk yield, blood metabolites and progesterone improved significantly (P<0.05), whereas stress indicators decreased significantly (P<0.01). Blood metabolites, progesterone and milk production were significantly (P<0.01) higher and stress indicators (MDA and cortisol) were significantly (P<0.01) lower in lactation stage. Buffaloes with a greater lactation stage and growing post-partum stage had better blood metabolite and progesterone concentrations and less stress. It was concluded that better BCS and increased lactation stage have significant impact on milk yield, stress reduction and restoration of ovarian activity in buffaloes during post-partum period.
... There was non-significant change in total bilirubin level at first month of lactation when compared to the second month of lactation furthermore non-significant change in calcium and creatinine level (Piccione et al., 2012). The level of ALP in the first month of lactation less than its level at second and third month of lactation (Abdulkareem, 2013). ...
... There was non-significant change in total bilirubin level of the third month of lactation groups when compared to first month of lactation group while, in the second month its level increased, this observation may be due to physical stress. These results agreed with that reported by (Piccione et al., 2012). ...
... There was a significant increment in urea level of second and third month of lactation groups when compared to first month of lactation group, this observation may be attributed to the fact that increased deamination or increased protein intake in dairy animals (Roubies et al., 2006). These results agreed with that reported by (Eman et al., 2014 andFiore et al., 2018) and disagreed with that recorded by (Accrosi et al., 2005 andPiccione et al., 2012). ...
This study conducted using 40 healthy lactating mixed breed cows aged 1.8-4 years from the date of 1-10-2018 to 1-1-2019. These cows selected from Sohag Governorate; 40 cows reared on small farms feed on balanced ration; 20 cows from them were at the first time of parturition, 10 cows were at the second time of parturition and 10 cows were at the third time of parturition. 10 cows used as a control animals brought from farmers houses and feed on unbalanced food. Blood and milk samples collected during three stages of lactation (first, second and third month of lactation). On each serum sample insulin, liver enzymes (SGOT, SGPT and ALP), total bilirubin, kidney function tests (urea, creatinine and uric acid), some minerals includes (Ca, phosphorus, Cl, Na, and K), some heavy metals include (Cu, Fe, lead, cadmium and Se), some antioxidants include (GSH, CAT and SOD), some hormones include (TSH in serum and milk leptin hormone) and glucose level were measured. A significant effect of the lactation stages were observed on SGOT, SGPT, urea, creatinine, Na, Ca, phosphorus, Cl, K, Cu, Fe, leptin, TSH, GSH, CAT, SOD, glucose, insulin, while there were no significant differences during the three lactation stages on serum ALP, total bilirubin, uric acid and Se.
... The values of all parameters were within the reference ranges, except for CH, which values were lower both in cows with and without lipidosis, and CK activity, which were higher in cows with lipidosis. [42]. Means followed by different superscripts letters indicate significant difference at P < 0.05. ...
... Means followed by different superscripts letters indicate significant difference at P < 0.05. [42]. Means followed by different superscripts letters indicate significant difference at P < 0.05. ...
... The obtained biochemical indicator values were within the reference ranges reported for dairy cows [42], except for cholesterol in both groups, and CK activity in postpartum cows with lipidosis, and TG levels in prepartum cows. Liver TG levels determined in prepartum cows (50 to 100 mg/g of tissue) indicate the presence of moderate liver lipidosis [8]. ...
Background: The incidence of metabolic disorders in dairy cows has increased as a result of intensive production practices and genetic selection for milk yield. Among such disorders, liver lipidosis is very frequently observed and has significant negative effects on cow health and milk yield. Severe energy supply deficit causes high fat mobilization, resulting in rapid body condition loss and liver lipid infiltration, which cannot always be detected by known blood biochemical indicators. The main objective of the study was to determine possible associations of blood biochemical parameters with liver lipid infiltration severity in high-yield multiparous Holstein cows along prepartum and postpartum periods.Materials, Methods & Results: Fifty-four high-yield Holstein cows from a herd managed in a free-stall system in the northwest region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil were evaluated. Cows were divided in two groups according to their physiological status. Group 1 included 19 prepartum cows, with an average milk yield of 44.7 L/d in the previous lactation, and 2.8 average parity, and Group 2 included 35 postpartum cows, with an average milk yield of 46.8 L/d in the previous lactation, and 2.5 average parity. The farm produced 10,000 kg milk per year, containing 3.5% of fat, 3.2% of protein and 4.7% of lactose. Total cholesterol (CH), plasma triglycerides (TGp), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), albumin (ALB), non-esterified free fatty acids (NEFA) levels, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK) activities were analyzed in the plasma and liver triglycerides (TGl) levels were determined in liver tissue samples.The SPSS statistical software was used for the statistical analyses. The obtained data were analyzed for normality by the Shapiro-Wilk test and for homoscedasticity by Bartlett test. Data were submitted to analysis of variance, and means were compared by the t-test (PROC TTEST). Pearson correlation test (PROC CORR) was used to compare the results between prepartum and postpartum cows, and between those with and without lipidosis.An overall incidence of 20% severe hepatic lipidosis was determined both in prepartum and postpartum cows. Positive significant correlations were obtained between days in milk (DIM) and AST (r= 0.43; P < 0.01), CH and TGp (r= 0.44; P < 0.01), TGl and AST (r=0.32; P < 0.05), NEFA and AST (r= 0.45; P < 0.01) and CK and AST (r= 0.447; P < 0.01). Negative significant correlations were detected between TGp and DIM (r= -0.45; P < 0.01), and between TGl and TGp (r= -0.30; P < 0.05).Discussion: Prepartum cows showed moderate fat infiltration in the liver, while 25.7% of postpartum cows presented severe lipidosis. AST values increased as lactation progressed, suggesting a greater tendency of liver damage, in early postpartum. The obtained CK values were within the reference range, except for the cows with hepatic lipidosis, indicating that the measured AST activity was originated from the liver and not from the muscle tissues. TGp, NEFA and AST values indicate the degree of fat mobilization and, possibly, liver infiltration, while TGl indicates fat infiltration in the liver. Although negative energy balance (NEB) may trigger lipolysis and some degree of hepatic lipidosis, plasma BHB values did not significantly increase. The obtained results show that the evaluated plasma parameters may be useful to establish guidelines for the identification of changes in the metabolic profile of dairy cows during different production stages, as well as measures for the prevention and control of metabolic disorders.
... The serum glucose level in postpartum cyclic cows from day of parturition (day 0) to day 60 of postpartum ranged from 58.30 to 64.50 mg/dL and in postpartum non-cyclic the corresponding value ranged from 45.60 to 50.60 mg/dL (Table 1). The level of glucose nonsignificantly decreased from day 0 to day 60 of postpartum in both the groups which might be due to production stress as massive energy demand to support milk production is largely made through gluconeogenesis (Piccione et al. 2012). Energy is the first limiting dietary factor for cows in early lactation. ...
... Cows with poor body conditions (negative energy) may not show cycle until 60 days postpartum, increasing open days (Veena et al. 2015). Piccione et al. (2012) opined that there exists direct relationship between positive energy status at early postpartum and diameter of largest follicle on day 10 postpartum. The serum glucose level in cyclic cows were significantly higher (P<0.01) ...
... In this study, level of protein was significantly higher (P<0.01) in cyclic cows compared to the cows which did not come to heat within 2 months of postpartum. Piccione et al. (2012) reported higher protein levels during fertile cycles. The lower level of serum proteins may cause deficiency of certain amino acids required for the synthesis of proteins in the body resulting in late expression of estrus after calving. ...
Apparently healthy crossbred cows (20) of first to fourth parity with normal calving history and free from any immediate post-parturient complications were selected to study the body condition score (BCS) and certain blood metabolite for establishment of cyclicity during postpartum periods. The cows were divided equally into 2 groups– Gr A (cows exhibited oestrus within 60 days postpartum (cyclic)) and Gr B (cows did not exhibit oestrus within 60 days postpartum (non-cyclic)). The study revealed that the BCS, level of serum total protein, cholesterol, BUN, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium differed significantly at different days of postpartum, i.e. day 0, 15, 30, 45, 60 and between the groups. The BCS, level of serum glucose, total protein, cholesterol, BUN, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium had a positive relation with respect to the postpartum cyclicity of the crossbred cows.
... The serum glucose level in postpartum cyclic cows from day of parturition (day 0) to day 60 of postpartum ranged from 58.30 to 64.50 mg/dL and in postpartum non-cyclic the corresponding value ranged from 45.60 to 50.60 mg/dL (Table 1). The level of glucose nonsignificantly decreased from day 0 to day 60 of postpartum in both the groups which might be due to production stress as massive energy demand to support milk production is largely made through gluconeogenesis (Piccione et al. 2012). Energy is the first limiting dietary factor for cows in early lactation. ...
... Cows with poor body conditions (negative energy) may not show cycle until 60 days postpartum, increasing open days (Veena et al. 2015). Piccione et al. (2012) opined that there exists direct relationship between positive energy status at early postpartum and diameter of largest follicle on day 10 postpartum. The serum glucose level in cyclic cows were significantly higher (P<0.01) ...
... In this study, level of protein was significantly higher (P<0.01) in cyclic cows compared to the cows which did not come to heat within 2 months of postpartum. Piccione et al. (2012) reported higher protein levels during fertile cycles. The lower level of serum proteins may cause deficiency of certain amino acids required for the synthesis of proteins in the body resulting in late expression of estrus after calving. ...
Apparently healthy crossbred cows (20) of first to fourth
parity with normal calving history and free from any
immediate post-parturient complications were selected to
study the body condition score (BCS) and certain blood
metabolite for establishment of cyclicity during postpartum
periods. The cows were divided equally into 2 groups–
Gr A (cows exhibited oestrus within 60 days postpartum
(cyclic)) and Gr B (cows did not exhibit oestrus within 60
days postpartum (non-cyclic)). The study revealed that the
BCS, level of serum total protein, cholesterol, BUN,
calcium, phosphorus and magnesium differed significantly
at different days of postpartum, i.e. day 0, 15, 30, 45, 60
and between the groups. The BCS, level of serum glucose,
total protein, cholesterol, BUN, calcium, phosphorus and
magnesium had a positive relation with respect to the
postpartum cyclicity of the crossbred cows.
... g/dl in prepartum and postpartum respectively with no significant difference. The present findings were in agreement with the reports of Piccione et al. (2012) [25] where no significant in protein concentration between pre and postpartum dairy cows with values of 5.52±0.45 and 4.83±0.88 ...
... g/dl in prepartum and postpartum respectively with no significant difference. The present findings were in agreement with the reports of Piccione et al. (2012) [25] where no significant in protein concentration between pre and postpartum dairy cows with values of 5.52±0.45 and 4.83±0.88 ...
... Nevertheless the total protein value recorded from our study falls within the reference range of 6.2-8.2 g/dl for cattle (Kahn, 2005) [21] . Serum plasma proteins indicate the maternal requirement of proteins for milk production and immunoglobulins Piccione et al., 2012) [24,25] . The mean serum cholesterol concentration recorded in the present study was found to be 84.80±1.59 and 79.15±0.85 ...
The objective of the present study was to assess the hematological and biochemical changes during periparturient period Ongole cattle. Eight Ongole pregnant cattle of four to six years of age during the summer season were used for the experiment. Temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated by recording the ambient temperature and relative humidity in the calving season. Whole blood was collected one week before and after calving. Haematological and biochemical parameters were estimated. The study revealed that transition period had no effect (p>0.05) on total erythrocytic count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The total leucocyte count (TLC) was significantly (p< 0.05) higher and lymphocyte percent was significantly (p< 0.05) lower during postpartum compared to prepartum. There was no significant (p>0.05) difference between prepartum and postpartum with respect to biochemical parameters such as total protein, BUN and creatinine. Cholesterol, calcium and phosphorous levels were significantly (p< 0.05) lower during postpartum compared to prepartum. Changes in hematological and biochemical parameters are indicative of parturition stress in Ongole cows and these parameters could be used as stress markers. The mean values obtained for hematological and biochemical parameters are within the reference range of cattle despite of high THI which is indicative of high thermo tolerance to the existing adverse ambience.
... In the study conducted by Piccione et al., (33) urea concentrations showed a statistically significant increase in the final pregnancy stage, compared to the other stages and at the beginning of lactation and compared to the remainder of lactation. It has been reported in a study on smaller ruminants that during the lactation period, urea concentrations increase due to higher energy requirements; at the end of pregnancy, concentrations clearly depend on protein intake. ...
... Studies indicate that total proteins increase as lactation progresses, and the opposite happens during the dry period, in which there is a slight decrease. According to Piccione et al., (33) there are maternal physiological requirements for supporting fetuses and providing immunoglobulins in milk during the lactation period. Hypoproteinemia can occur in malnutrition cases. ...
Bovine Abortion Syndrome (bas) has a significant impact on commercial dairies. Abortion rates vary between 2 and 20 % and there is little information regarding non-infectious factors affecting fetal stages. We analyzed the joint relationship of infectious and non-infectious factors with the probability of abortion in dairy cows. We used dairy cows from the Ñuble province of Chile (n = 148) at 42 days of pregnancy. We then took monthly blood samples until abortion or calving. We determined plasma concentrations for the following: amino transferase, albumin, cholesterol, globulin, fibrinogen, â-hydroxybutyrate, retinol, á-tocopherol, calcium, phosphorus, glutathione peroxidase, total proteins and urea. Serology was performed for infectious diseases and body conditions were recorded. Our study used a multivariable logistic regression model and proportional hazard regression. There was an (p < 0.05) association with abortion, (or = 4.27) for Neospora caninum and (hr = 94.35) for Leptospira interrogans, with a low cholesterol concentration (p < 0.05) in the fourth month of pregnancy (or = 0.61), and a decrease in body condition from month three to four (or = 0.32). bas is associated with negative energy balances, protective effects of high cholesterol plasma concentrations in the first trimester of gestation and incidences of Neospora caninum, Leptospira interrogans, and a conjunction of the two. It is important to provide epidemiological surveillance tools that help anticipate herd reproductive losses through management measures, infectious disease control and proper nutritional management.
... Yogurts were prepared on three different days, after 49 day of the experiment, (49,52, and 55 day) at the Food Technology Pilot Plant of the University of Murcia. Each day, six yogurts were prepared per treatment, 3 were used for physicochemical analysis, and 3 for sensorial study. ...
... In general, the biochemical plasma profile did not change throughout lactation, with the exception of cholesterol and β-hydroxybutyrate. These metabolic indicators are related to lipid metabolism, and it has been shown that they can vary according to the physiological state of the cow [52]. As lactation advanced cholesterol increased and β-hydroxybutyrate decreased, which may indicate an improvement in metabolic status. ...
This work studied the effect of dairy cow ration supplementation with inorganic plus organic Se on metabolic status, milk yield, and the quality of milk and dairy products, especially its Se content. Twenty multiparous Holstein Friesian lactating cows were assigned to two feeding treatments. The cows were fed with 22.5 kg dry matter (DM) of total mixed ration (11.75 kg DM of forage plus 10.75 kg DM of concentrate) by head. There were two different concentrates with the same Se content (0.240 mg/kg of ration DM) but with different Se sources: The control (CON) was supplemented with inorganic Se (sodium selenite); and the other (IOSe) was supplemented with sodium selenite plus organic Se (Sel-Plex®), at 0.144 and 0.096 mg Se/kg of ration DM, respectively. The results indicated that, in general, the IOSe treatment did not modify the metabolic profile, and even decreased the total oxidant status (p < 0.05) and did not lead to a deterioration of quality and yield of milk. However, milk and cheese from IOSe had higher Se content (an increase of 29.7% and 38.2%, respectively) than CON (p < 0.01), but this effect was not observed in yogurt. In general, physical or sensorial parameters of cheeses did not show differences between treatments. Moderate inorganic plus organic Se supplementation may be more effective than inorganic Se, increasing the Se content in milk and cheese, without causing a deterioration in quality or productive parameters.
... Pregnancy is considered the intense protein or metabolic alteration period as reported in previous studies [41,42]. The significant decline in blood plasma or serum proteins during the peripartum stage has been described in different animal species including goat and sheep [41][42][43][44][45]. ...
... Pregnancy is considered the intense protein or metabolic alteration period as reported in previous studies [41,42]. The significant decline in blood plasma or serum proteins during the peripartum stage has been described in different animal species including goat and sheep [41][42][43][44][45]. The reduction of maternal blood plasma proteins in the last trimester of pregnancy seems to be due to the high demand for amino acids transferring from the mother to the fetus for numerous protein syntheses necessary for growing fetuses [46]. ...
Salinity is a worldwide, threatening problem affecting socioeconomic status globally. Saline land comprises salt content in soil, plants, and drinking water. Livestock farming is the worthy option for proper utilization of saline land in a cost-effective approach. Animals reared on this land experience a variety of stresses. Such stresses promote oxidative stress and reduced animal performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antioxidative function of vitamin E and selenium (Se) on pregnant/nonpregnant animals reared on the saline environment. A total of 36 multiparous pregnant (n=18) and nonpregnant (n=18) goats weighing about 38-45 (average 41.5) kg were equally divided into control and supplemented groups. The experiment lasted from 120 days of gestation to 15 days after parturition for pregnant goats and 0 to 45 days for nonpregnant cyclic goats (>50 days post-kidding). The supplemented group was administered vitamin E (1000 mg/kg BW) and selenium (3 mg/50 kg BW), while the control group was kept on normal saline (0.9% NaCl) with the same route 15 days apart. The blood samples were collected with 15 days apart during the entire experimental period of 45 days and subjected to assessment of enzymatic/nonenzymatic antioxidants, hydrolytic enzymes, oxidants, stress metabolic biomarkers, Se, and progesterone concentration of (pregnant) animals. Results revealed that vitamin E and Se supplementation significantly enhanced the activity of enzymatic (catalase and peroxidase) and nonenzymatic antioxidants such as total phenolic/flavonoid content and vitamin C and increased blood plasma level of Se concentration in comparison with the control group (P
... Results of present experiment were in consonance with observations of Nessim (2010) in Baladi cows and Piccione et al., (2012) in Holstein Friesian cows. However, Alameen and Abdelatif (2012) observed that the serum Calcium level was not affected significantly by season and stage of pregnancy. ...
... Alameen and Abdelatif (2012) found that stage of pregnancy had no significant effect on magnesium level in crossbred dairy cows. Whereas Piccione et al., (2012) found that the physiological phase such as late gestation, post-partum, early lactation and late lactation have a significant effect on the magnesium levels in Holstein Friesian cows. However, Ghanem et al., (2012) observed a significant (P<0.05) ...
... level of protein was recorded 30 days after parturition than that of the day of calving. This is similar to the findings of Piccione et al. (2012) [17] who observed that the total serum proteins levels were significantly affected from the physiological period and increased during lactation. The variations reflect the maternal requirements of proteins need for milking and providing immunoglobulin (Mohri et al., 2007) [12] . ...
... level of protein was recorded 30 days after parturition than that of the day of calving. This is similar to the findings of Piccione et al. (2012) [17] who observed that the total serum proteins levels were significantly affected from the physiological period and increased during lactation. The variations reflect the maternal requirements of proteins need for milking and providing immunoglobulin (Mohri et al., 2007) [12] . ...
... This was possibly due to increased protein consumption, or to diets with easily digestible protein or high levels of non-protein nitrogen, where there was greater absorption of the ruminal ammonia, and therefore greater urea synthesis in the liver. In the study conducted by Piccione et al. (2012), urea concentrations showed a statistically significant increase in the final gestation stage, compared to the other stages and at the beginning of lactation and compared to the remainder of lactation. It has been reported in a study on smaller ruminants that during the lactation period, urea concentrations increase due to higher energy requirements; at the end of gestation, which concentrations clearly depend on protein intake (Wittwer, 2012). ...
... Studies indicate that total proteins increase as breastfeeding progresses, and the opposite happens during the dry period, in which there is a slight decrease. According to Piccione et al.(2012) there are maternal physiological requirements for supporting fetuses and providing immunoglobulin's in milk during the lactation period. Hypoproteinemia can occur in malnutrition cases (Wittwer, 2012;Eckersall;. ...
... Treatment did not affect the blood serum concentrations of glucose, NEFA, and BHBA, which were in the normal range for nonlactating dairy cows (LeBlanc, 2010;Piccione et al., 2012;Soulat et al., 2020). This suggests that the supply and status of energy were similar among treatments. ...
Hemp seed meal may be a suitable protein supplement for dairy cows, but its quality and safety as a dairy cow feed has not yet been fully investigated. As a result, dry matter intake (DMI), rumen fermentation, blood metabolites, total-tract digestibility, and concentrations of cannabinoids in blood plasma, urine, muscle, and adipose tissues were compared among nonlactating Holstein dairy cows receiving a basal partial mixed ration that was supplemented with either 10.2% dry matter (DM) hemp meal (HM treatment), 13.5% DM canola meal (CM treatment), or 6.25% DM hemp meal and 6.16% DM canola meal (HC treatment). Diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous. Six nonlactating, nonpregnant Holstein cows were used in a repeated 3 × 3 Latin square design trial with three 3-wk experimental periods. The first 2 weeks of each served as adaptation. Sample and data collection occurred during the third week of each period. Neither the partial mixed ration nor canola meal contain cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), d9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A). However, the hemp meal contained 3.0, 4.4, 0, and 0.1 μg/g DM of CBD, CBDA, THC, and THCA-A, respectively. Treatment did not affect DMI, pH, concentrations of volatile fatty acids or ammonia in the rumen, total-tract digestibilities of DM and crude protein, or blood plasma concentrations of glucose, urea, β-hydroxybutyrate, and nonesterified fatty acids. Hence, based on these metabolites, treatment did not affect the nutritional status of the cows. However, the total-tract neutral detergent fiber digestibility of the CM treatment (43%) was higher than that of the HM treatment (38%). No cannabinoids were detected in blood plasma, rumen fluid, and urine. Cannabinoids were also not detected in kidney, liver, urine, muscle, or adipose tissues at the end of the experiment when cows had undergone all treatments. Feces from all treatments did not contain detectable concentrations of THC or THCA-A, but feces of cows on the HC treatment contained 0.42 and 0.40 μg/g DM of CBD and CBDA, respectively. Feces of cows on the HM treatment contained 0.68 and 0.67 μg/g DM of CBD and CBDA, respectively. This indicated that most ingested CBD and CBDA were not absorbed but instead were excreted in the feces. Our data show dietary inclusion rates of up to 10.2% of DM. We find that hemp meal is a high-quality and safe protein supplement for nonlactating dairy cows.
... The negative energy balance status is characterized by alterations in blood metabolite and hormone profile (Piccione et al. 2012). Occurrence of negative energy balance impaired normal liver function and affected biomarkers of liver functions and other blood metabolites in transition cows. ...
Dairy cows usually face negative energy balance and disorders of normal organ function due to a mismatch between energy intake and energy demand. Negative energy balance directly affects liver function and blood metabolites because the liver is used as source of energy supply and a center of metabolic activity. This study was aimed to determine the effect of pre-calving energy density and rumen-protected lysine on blood metabolites and biomarkers of liver functions in the dairy cows during the transition period. Forty 3 rd lactation Holstein cows going to enter their 4 th lactation were randomly allocated to one of the four dietary treatments (high energy with rumen-protected lysine (HERPL) = 1.53NE L plus 40 g Lys, high energy without lysine (HECK) = 1.53NE L , low energy with rumen-protected lysine (LERPL) = 1.37NE L plus 40 g Lys, and low energy without lysine (LECK) = 1.37NE L arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Blood samples were collected during the transition period, and concentrations of blood metabolites and biomarkers of liver function were measured. Interaction between pre-calving high-energy diet and rumen-protected lysine tended to increase plasma albumin, numerically increased glucose, decreased triglyceride, total bilirubin, and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations. The result revealed that pre-calving high-energy density increased insulin, albumin and decreased blood urea nitrogen and total bilirubin concentrations and substantial favor liver functions during the transition period.
... The downward trend of serum cholesterol was observed in dry pregnant cows as compared to lactating cows. The study of Piccione et al. [75] experimented on five healthy pregnant and lactating Holstein Friesian dairy cows. Samples of blood were collected at late gestation and early lactation during the 15, 35, and 105 days after parturition and at the end of lactation. ...
This review aims to summarize and present different biological health markers in dairy cows during the lactation period. Biochemical health markers provide an indicator of how foreign chemical substances, whether external or internal, affect the animal’s health. To understand the relationship between dairy cow health issues and oxidative stress, various biomarkers of oxidative stress must be investigated. Biochemical and hematological factors play a significant role in determining the biological health markers of animals. A variety of biochemical parameters are dependent on various factors, including the animal’s breed, its age, its development, its pregnancy status, and its production status. When assessing the health of cattle, a blood test is conducted to determine the blood chemistry. To diagnose diseases in dairy animals, the blood biochemistry is necessary to determine the cause of many physiological, metabolic, and pathological problems. Observing blood alterations during pregnancy and at peak lactation may determine what factors lift oxidative stress in cows due to disturbances in feed intake and metabolic processes.
... Recently published studies have provided suggested reference values for cattle during the transition period. 58,67,[107][108][109] Individual samples: Blood analyte results would be compared with laboratory reference values in considering a clinical disease issue but more importantly, in MPT, they would be compared with a defined threshold value associated with an increased disease risk. 110 Interpretation is based on the percentage of samples above or below the defined critical threshold associated with disease risk. ...
A herd-based approach and interpretative perspective is necessary in using metabolic profile testing in contrast to individual animal disease diagnostics. Metabolic profile testing requires formulating a question to be answered, followed by the appropriate selection of animals for testing. A range of blood analytes and nutrients can be determined with newer biomarkers being developed. Sample collection and handling and herd-based reference criteria adjusted to time relative to parturition are critical for interpretation. The objective of this article is to review the concepts and practical applications of metabolic profile testing in ruminants.
... As a result of changes in metabolic and hormonal status, dairy cows experience negative energy balance (NEB) (Leroy et al 2008, Contreras andSordillo 2011). The period of transition from pregnancy to lactation causes a metabolic challenge to the dairy cow (Piccione et al 2012), so the haemato-chemical profiles are much more important in following the health status of animals and herds (Hagawane et al 2009). At the beginning of lactation, there is a high demand in calcium (Ca) that homeostatic mechanisms must react. ...
Amaç: Sunulan çalışmanın amacı, süt ineklerinde laktasyon sayısı, süt verimi ve bazı biyokimyasal parametreler arasındaki ilişkiyi araştırmaktır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmanın materyalini süt inekleri (n=60) oluşturdu ve inekler laktasyon sayılarına göre üç farklı gruba ayrıldı. Laktasyonda olmayanlar (düveler) Grup 1'e (n=10), 1. ve 2. laktasyondaki inekler Grup 2'ye (n=24), 3. ve 4. laktasyondaki inekler Grup 3'e (n=26) kaydedildi. Gruplardaki ineklerin kan total protein, albümin, kan üre nitrojen (BUN) kalsiyum, fosfor, magnezyum, glukoz, kolesterol, aspartat transaminaz (AST) ve gama-glutamil transpeptidaz (GGT) düzeyleri ölçüldü. Ayrıca grupların süt verimleri kıyaslanarak bu değerler ile süt verimi arasındaki ilişki araştırıldı. Bulgular: Toplam protein seviyesi sırasıyla G3, G2 ve G1 gruplarında daha yüksekti (p<0,001). Benzer şekilde albümin düzeyi G1 Grubuna göre G3 grubunda anlamlı olarak yüksekti (P<0.01). Diğer gruplara göre G1 grubunda glukoz düzeyleri daha yüksek ve kolesterol düzeyleri daha düşük bulundu (p<0,001; p<0,05). AST ve GGT seviyeleri G2 grubuna göre G1 grubunda daha düşük bulundu (p<0.05). Öneri: Sonuç olarak, süt ineklerinde laktasyon sayısı, total protein, albümin, glukoz, kolesterol, AST ve GGT gibi biyokimyasal parametreleri önemli ölçüde etkilemiştir. Bu farklılıklar Grup 1'e (düveler) göre özellikle multipar ineklerin yer aldığı Grup 2 ve Grup 3'te bulunmuştur. Anahtar kelimeler: Biyokimyasal parametre, inek, laktasyon sayısı, süt verimi
... Doğumuna 1 hafta kalan ineklerdeki total protein düzeyi bir çalışmada (37) 5.94±0.13 g/dL belirlenirken, başka bir çalışmada (38) 5.52±0.45 g/dL referans aralığın altında değerler bildirilmiştir (34). ...
Bu çalışmada, doğum anında anne inekte, göbek kordonunda, doğan buzağılarda ise kolostrum verilmeden önce, sonra ve farklı günlerde bazı oksidatif stres, biyokimyasal parametre düzeylerinin belirlenmesi, doğum şeklinin bu parametreler üzerine olan etkisinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmada 20 inek ile buzağıları kullanıldı. İnekler normal, güç, prematüre ve sezaryen grupları olarak ayrıldı. Tüm gruplardaki ineklerden doğum gerçekleşmeden hemen önce vena jugularisten, doğumdan hemen sonra göbek kordonlarından, buzağılardan ise doğum anında, kolostrum verildikten sonra, doğum sonrası 15., 30., 45., ve 60. günlerde kan örnekleri alındı. Örneklerde oksidatif stres parametrelerinden malondialdehit (MDA), glutatyon, glutatyon peroksidaz (GSH-PX), katalaz düzeyleri spektrofotometrik olarak, total protein, üre, trigliserit, kolesterol, albümin, glikoz, laktat dehidrogenaz (LDH), triiodotironin (T3), tiroksin (T4) düzeyleri ve esterleşmemiş yağ asitleri (NEFA) ise otoanalizör ile belirlendi. Güç, sezaryen gruplarının göbek kordonu kanı MDA düzeyleri anne kanındaki değerlerden yüksek bulundu. Göbek kordonu kanı MDA düzeyleri kendi içinde kıyaslandığında, sezaryen grubundaki düzeylerde artış olduğu belirlendi. Kolostrum sonrası güç, prematüre, sezaryen gruplarındaki buzağıların MDA düzeyleri normal doğum grubundaki buzağıların değerlerinden yüksek bulundu. Sezaryen grubundaki anne kanı GSH-Px düzeyleri göbek kordonundaki düzeylerden düşüktü. Prematüre, sezaryen gruplarının göbek kordonu kanı albümin, glikoz, kolesterol, LDH, total protein düzeyleri anne kanı değerlerinden düşüktü. Anne kanındaki değerlerle kıyaslandığında prematüre, sezaryen gruplarında göbek kordonu kanı T3 düzeylerinin arttığı, prematüre grup göbek kordonu T4 düzeylerinin azaldığı saptandı. Prematüre grupta göbek kordonu serum üre düzeyleri annedeki değerlere kıyasla yüksek olarak belirlenirken güç, prematüre, sezaryen gruplarında göbek kordonu kanı NEFA düzeylerinin azaldığı gözlendi. Sonuç olarak, doğum şeklinin göbek kordonu kanında oksidatif streste artışa neden olduğu belirlenmiştir.
... An imbalance in protein levels will interfere with the secretion of gonadotropin hormones. Ruminants generally need a lot of glucose for fetal body growth and tissue growth such as placenta, udder, and milk production [11]. ...
Twenty Pasundan heifers were used in this study to determine the economic estimation of Pasundan cattle induced with prostaglandins and gonadotropin-releasing hormones. The cows were randomly divided into two groups of 10 each. The first group came from breeders who are members of the Rundayan Sawargi Group, Karya Mukti Village, Cibalong District, Garut Regency and the second group of cows came from the Mekar Tani 2 Livestock Group, having their address at Singasari Village, Jonggol District, Bogor Regency. All cows were injected with prostaglandins (PGF2α, dinoprost tromethamine) with a dose of 5 ml/head intramuscularly 2 (two) times with an interval of 11 days, and on the 9th day was injected with gonadotropin realizing hormone (GnRH, gonadorelin) of 2.5 ml/head intramuscularly. Cows in heat were artificially inseminated 2x with an interval of 6 hours. The variables observed were the percentage of birth rate, childbirth weight and body weight gain up to 120 days of age, percentage of calf mortality to 120 days of age, profit, and B/C ratio. The data were processed by analysis of variance and used descriptive methods. The results showed that cows in the Garut region had an average calving rate (birth rate) of 90%, birth weight of calves 21.51 ± 0.71 kg, body weight gain 0.60 ± 0.5 kg/head/day, mortality 0%, profit Rp. 26,495,000, - and B / C ratio 1.1. better than the Bogor area with a birth rate of 87.5%. Birth weight 19.95 ± 2.02 kg, body weight gained 0.55 ± 0.5 kg/head/day, mortality 0%, Profit Rp. 12,120,000, -and B / C ratio 0.51. It was concluded that the economic estimation of Pasundan cattle induced with prostaglandins and gonadotropin hormones in the Garut area is better than the Bogor area, with an increase in income of 218.23% per 13 months. Keywords: pasundan cows, hormone induction, reproductive performance, economic estimation
... The negative energy balance status is characterized by alterations in blood metabolite and hormone pro le (Piccione et al., 2012). Occurrence of negative energy balance impaired normal liver function and affected biomarkers of liver functions and other blood metabolites in transition cows. ...
Dairy cow usual faces negative energy balance and disorder of normal organs function due to mismatch between energy intake and energy demands. Negative energy balance directly affects liver function and blood metabolites because of liver used as source of energy supply and center of metabolic activity. The study aimed to determine the effect of pre-calving energy density and rumen-protected lysine on blood metabolites and biomarkers of liver functions in dairy cows during the transition period. Forty 3rd lactation Holstein cows were randomly allocated to one of the four dietary treatments (High energy with rumen-protected lysine ( HERPL) = 1.53NE L plus 40 g Lys, High energy without lysine (HECK) = 1.53NE L , Low energy with rumen-protected lysine (LERPL) = 1.37NE L plus 40 g Lys, and Low energy without lysine ( LECK) = 1.37NE L arranged in a 2 x 2 factorial design. Blood samples were collected during the transition period and concentrations of blood metabolites and biomarkers of liver functions were measured. Interaction between pre-calving high energy diet and RPL tended to increase plasma albumin, numerically increased glucose, decreased TG, total bilirubin and AST concentrations. The result revealed that pre-calving high energy diet increased insulin, albumin and decreased blood urea nitrogen and total bilirubin concentrations and substantial favor liver functions during the transition period.
... While studying changes of some haematochemical parameters in HF dairy cows Piccioneet al., (2012) found serum creatinine levels to be highest at postpartum which then decreased throughout lactation. Present findings were also similar to the observation of Piccione et al., (2012) except that the levels of creatinine during early lactation were consistently high up to day 75 of lactation. Lamp et al.,(2015) reported that creatinine synthesis in healthy animals is constant and depends on muscle mass and protein intake, which influence the serum levels. ...
This study was conducted on twelve apparently healthy lactating Murrah buffaloes in their 2nd – 4th lactation, maintained at a farm in Thane District, Mumbai, Maharashtra. The purpose of the study was to examine the lactation associated serum protein concentrations in buffaloes kept open throughout lactation (neither inseminated, nor allowed to mate) in order to establish standard reference values. The serum total protein concentrations were stable and lower during peak lactation and mid-lactation, whereas higher and fluctuation during early and late lactation. Serum albumin concentrations showed variations similar to serum proteins. Postpartum concentrations of serum globulin were generally lower during early lactation and increased thereafter. Higher values of A/G ratio were observed with lower values of serum globulin values. The serum urea concentrations were higher from early lactation up to 165 day of lactation. Finally, higher serum creatinine concentration was observed during lactation as compared to the normal range.
... The same mechanism occurs for magnesium, as well (hypomagnesemia). Nevertheless, the plasma levels of P in our study were higher than those reported by Yokus & Cakir (2006), Shrikhande et al. (2008), Piccione et al. (2012) and Naser et al. (2014). ...
... The same mechanism occurs for magnesium, as well (hypomagnesemia). Nevertheless, the plasma levels of P in our study were higher than those reported by Yokus & Cakir (2006), Shrikhande et al. (2008), Piccione et al. (2012) and Naser et al. (2014). ...
The aim of this study was to determine if total replacement of soybean meal (SBM) with a rapeseed by-product (RS-by) in the diets of Romanian Black Spotted (RBS) and Montbéliarde (MB) breeds will cause changes of the biochemical profile in lactating cows. Thirty-two healthy multiparous dairy cows, mid-lactation stage, were randomly assigned to four homogeneous groups (2 RBS and 2 MB) of 8 cows each for 42 days of experiment. Groups received the same basal diet (maize silage and alfalfa hay) and two types of compound feed: control (with 12.5% SBM) and experimental (with 12.5% RS-by). Individual blood samples were collected at the end of the trial from the mammary vein and plasma biochemical parameters were determined. The main effects of feed, breed and their interaction were statistically analyzed with SPSS software. Plasma energy parameters were not affected by the dietary treatments, but glucose was higher in MB breed. Total protein and urea were significantly higher (7.99 vs. 6.93 g/dL; 18.50 vs. 15.31 mg/dL) in control compared to the experimental group; urea was also influenced by the feed x breed interaction. Magnesium was significantly higher (1.98 vs.1.59 mg/dL) in the experimental group. Alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were significantly higher (35.75 vs. 29.00 U/L; 43.62 vs. 36.40 U/L) in the control group. The mineral or enzimatic analytes were not affected by animal breed. The majority of the parameters ranged between the normal limits.
... (Kurpinska., 2013). The concentration of electrolytes is a vital factor from late gestation to early lactation, in terms of sufficient milk production and supplying nutrients and energy (Piccione et al., 2012). Ulutas et al. (2003) reported considerable variations in iron, sodium, calcium, potassium, and magnesium before delivery and during lactation. ...
Abortion is among reproductive parameters affecting the profitability of dairy herds. Abortion incidence is influenced and/or controlled by different infectious, environmental, and managerial factors and so forth. The effect of environmental and nutritional conditions on minerals, as well as interactions between minerals and physiological conditions, are leading parameters to consider during gestation. This study attempts to assess links between these factors and abortion by determining and measuring homeostasis-electrolyte factors, such as Na and Cl, and hematological parameters, such as complete blood count, in dairy herds with abortion. A total of 40 Holstein dairy herds were chosen and split into two 20-member control and aborted groups. Abortions were reported by ranchers, and blood samples were taken considering the history and current status of herds and clinical examinations. Blood samples were taken twice, once with EDTA to study hematological characteristics and once with no anticoagulant to measure hemostasis-electrolyte factors (Na, Cl) from the serum of herds with abortion. The relationships between these parameters and variations observed in dairy herds with abortion were compared with those in the control group. There was no significant difference in concentrations of sodium and chlorine between the two groups (p> 0.05).
... This is somewhat supported further by the plasma NEFA and BHBA concentrations being marginally higher pre-partum for GG cows indicating increased nutritional stress from a metabolic perspective, despite DMI and ME intakes being similar. The pattern of decreasing plasma creatinine concentrations post-partum and the concentrations reported for both treatment groups in the current experiment are similar to those reported in other transition experiments (Piccione et al., 2012) and are considered within the normal range for lactating dairy cows (Cozzi et al., 2011). The hormonal changes in the lead up to parturition, namely to catecholamines and glucocorticoids, result in a dramatic increase in the rate of gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis (Vazquez-Anon et al., 1994;Drackley et al., 2001). ...
The diet of dairy cows in Ireland traditionally changes abruptly from predominantly pasture silage before calving to grazed perennial ryegrass immediately after calving. This potentially leads to problems with adaptation of microbes in the rumen with consequences of reduced intake and ultimately lower milk production. This experiment aimed to determine if introducing first-lactation dairy cows to perennial ryegrass herbage in the final weeks of pregnancy, thus eliminating a major dietary change at calving, could improve the adaptation process, potentially increasing dry matter intake (DMI) and milk production in early lactation. Three weeks prior to their expected calving date, 14 spring calving dairy cows were assigned to one of two treatments (n = 7): pasture silage pre-partum and perennial ryegrass herbage post-partum, or perennial ryegrass herbage both pre- and post-partum. Treatment diets were fed for 11 (±7) d pre-partum and for 14 (±0) d post-partum. For both treatments, DMI increased post-partum, but there was no difference between treatments, pre- or post-partum (5.9 and 8.8 kg DM/cow per day, respectively). There were no differences in milk yield or composition between the treatments. Body condition score declined following parturition but there were no differences between treatments. Plasma non-esterified fatty acids, glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate were also unaffected by treatment but did indicate a state of negative energy balance in early lactation. The results of this experiment suggest that pre-partum adaptation to perennial ryegrass herbage would not benefit milk production in first-lactation dairy cows in early lactation in Irish dairy farms employing this system.
... The most critical period in a productive dairy cow's life is parturition and the beginning of lactation, when the nutritional and mineral demands for macroelements increase. Increased intake of Ca, P, and Mg in the early lactation stage is required to increase milk synthesis, and the absorption of these from the GIT increases as a result of homeostatic regulation mechanisms; serum concentrations of the macroelements are thus mainly affected by nutrition [17,18]. A higher demand for Mg for milk synthesis was suggested by the positive correlation between plasma Mg levels and milk production seen in our study. ...
Background
Lactating dairy cows are the greatest livestock contributor of methane, a major global greenhouse gas (GHG). However, good feeding management with adequate mineral intake can offers an effective approach to maintaining high levels of milk production and the health of dairy cows over the entire course of lactation, while also helping to reduce methane emission. The study described here investigated the plasma concentrations of both macroelements (Ca, Na, K, Mg, P) and microelements (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn), as well as enteric methane emission and milk composition in high-yielding dairy cows in different lactation periods. The experiment was performed on Holstein–Friesian dairy cows with the average milk yield of 41 (± 9) L/day in a Polish commercial farm with modern dairy systems. A total of thirty high-yielding dairy cows were randomly assigned into three groups differing by lactation stage: early stage (Early, days 25–100), middle stage (Middle, days 101–250), and late stage (Late, day 250 and later). Dietary treatment for all cows was a total mixture ration (TMR) with maize and alfalfa silage the main forage components.
Results
The greatest milk yield and methane production were recorded in early-stage lactating cows, but the greatest methane intensity per kg of corrected milk was recorded in the late stage of lactation. Plasma concentrations of macroelements and microelements did not differ by lactation stages, but increased plasma concentrations of Zn and Fe and decreased plasma levels of Mg were noted during lactation. A positive correlation was found between plasma levels of Mg and other macroelements (Ca, Na, K), and between the concentrations of Fe and Zn, P in plasma, but no correlation between methane emission and mineral status was detected in the different lactation stages.
Conclusions
Our results showed different mineral requirements and enteric methane emissions in each lactation stage. The feeding strategy and mineral utilization were adequate to maintain the health, mineral status, and milk production of the Holstein cows during the entire lactation period, and suggest an effective way of reducing methane emission.
... The BUN is considered as an indicator of the balance between amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis (58). Pregnancy is considered to be a period of severe metabolic and protein alterations in the body (59). The decrease in plasma protein level with the advancement of gestation in the control group was due to the high demand for amino acids, which were transferred from the mother to the developing fetus for the synthesis of numerous proteins required for the proper growth of the fetus and for the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy (60). ...
This study investigated the effects of supplementing different levels of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) on antioxidant status and blood biochemical indices during early gestation in Beetal goats. A total of 30 goats were randomly divided into three groups ( n = 10) comprising control (basal diet without MOLP), the 1.6% MOLP supplemented group (basal diet + 1.6% MOLP), and the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group (basal diet + 3.2% MOLP). The experiment started 5 days before estrus synchronization and lasted till day 60 of gestation. The MOLP significantly increased plasma flavonoids in 1.6% as well as 3.2% supplemented group on days 40 and 60 of pregnancy, while total phenolic contents were observed to be higher in the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group throughout the experiment in comparison with the control group. The supplementation improved plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant status (TOS) in contrast to the control group. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) were enhanced in both supplemented groups, whereas catalase (CAT) activity was noticed to be significantly high in the 3.2% MOLP supplemented group. The protein contents were significantly elevated with 1.6 and 3.2% supplementation levels from day 40 to day 60 of the experiment. Plasma sugar level, carotenoids, progesterone profile, and hydrolytic (protease and amylase) enzymes activities were improved only when supplemented with 3.2% MOLP. The findings suggest that supplementing with 3.2% MOLP provides beneficial effects on early pregnancy stress in Beetal goats.
... The increase in serum creatinine levels could be also be attributed to the development of fetal musculature as reported in ewes (Roubies et al., 2006). Similar findings have been observed by Piccione et al. (2012) in cows. The high serum creatinine level might also be due to increased energy mobilization during the pre-kidding period (Roubies et al., 2006). ...
The present study was conducted on six healthy Beetal goats of age 3 to 5 years to monitor maternal liver and kidneys by ultrasonography during pregnancy and after kidding and compared to non-pregnant state. Also, certain biochemical parameters like SGOT, SGPT, ALP, Creatinine, Urea and Cortisol were assessed. The healthy does were served to fertile buck and pregnancy was confirmed at day 32 by ultrasonography. Before mating, these healthy does served as control. We found that liver thickness significantly increases on 97 days of pregnancy as compared to control with highest value at day 142 of pregnancy which remained elevated to 3 weeks of kidding. Pixel value of liver also showed similar trend. Length and width of both the kidneys were similar before, during and after pregnancy. The kidney fat thickness of both kidneys decreased significantly at 127 days of pregnancy as compared to control and lowest at 142 days. The pixel values of right kidney were also increased with advancement of pregnancy as compared to control. The SGPT levels were significantly reduced in third month of pregnancy then fluctuated around control values. rd The SGOT levels were risen significantly from 3 month of pregnancy and consistently risen even after kidding. The ALP concentration was highest rd th th at 3 month of pregnancy. Urea level were risen in later months of pregnancy (4 and 5) and remained elevated after kidding. Creatinine level was significantly higher during pregnancy as compared to control and after kidding. Cortisol value increased with advancement of gestation, then decreased significantly (P<0.05) after kidding.
... We interpret the lower TAG concentrations as a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism, because animals in this metabotype (metabotype B) generally exhibited signifi-cantly higher TAG levels compared with animals in the metabotype C. Little can be found in the literature on influences on and significance of low or high TAG levels in blood. What is however repeatedly described is a decrease in blood TAG levels from AP to PP and higher TAG levels in animals exhibiting a higher degree of PP lipolysis (Piccione et al., 2012;Samanc et al., 2015). This also points toward, that a decrease in blood TAG levels PP indicates a higher metabolic capacity and may be therefore evaluated positively. ...
Dairy cows in modern production systems are at risk to develop metabolic disorders during the transition period. Reasons for individual differences in susceptibility, as well as the underlying pathomechanisms, are still only partially understood. The development of metaphylactic treatment protocols is needed. In this context, an on-farm prospective 3-fold blinded randomized study involving 80 German Holstein cows was performed throughout 1 yr. The trial involved a thorough recording of the production and clinical traits, clinical chemistry, and liver biopsies and blood and urine sampling at d 14 (mean: 12 d, range: 1-26 d) antepartum (AP), and d 7 (7, 4-13) and 28 (28, 23-34) postpartum (PP) for metabolomics analyses. Two groups received a treatment with butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin (BCC) at either the dosage recommended by the manufacturer or the double dosage (5 or 10 mL/100 kg of body weight 10% butaphosphan and 0.005% cyanocobalamin (Catosal, Bayer Animal Health), n = 20 in each group, parity: 4.2 ± 2.0 and 3.4 ± 1.3, respectively (mean ± SD)] and one group a placebo treatment (NaCl 0.9%, n = 40, parity: 4.0 ± 1.9). The animals were treated at 6 time points (7, 6, and 5 d AP, and 1, 2, and 3 d PP) via intravenous injection. Mass spectroscopy-based targeted metabolomics analysis of blood plasma and liver samples were performed using the AbsoluteIDQ p180 kit (Biocrates Life Sciences), whereas the urine samples were analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate [partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA)] and univariate methods (linear mixed model). Multivariate data analysis (PLS-DA plots) of the liver metabolome revealed 3 different metabotypes (A = medium, B = minor, C = large alterations in liver metabolome profile between AP and PP status). Metabotype B animals were characterized by higher PP lipomobilization (stronger PP body condition decrease and higher blood bilirubin, fatty acids, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and triglyceride levels) and a higher occurrence of transition cow diseases, compared with the animals in metabotype C. Analysis of the feeding data showed that the period of metabotype B animals (calving in a distinct time frame) was characterized by a decreased grass silage quality. The PP liver metabolome of the metabotype C animals was characterized by higher concentrations of AA, acylcarnitines, lysoPC and sphingomyelins compared with metabotype B. For the metaphylactic treatment with BCC a dose-dependent effect was confirmed, differing between the metabotypes. In all matrices and metabotypes at various time points significant treatment effects were observed, with different profiles in clinical chemistry and as well in metabolomics data. The most clear-cut treatment effect was observed in metabotype B in the liver at 7 d PP, characterized by an increase in several acylcarnitines and phosphatidylcholines, indicating a more efficient influx and oxidation of fatty acids in mitochondria and thereby an increase in energy supply and more efficient triglyceride export in the liver. The results from the liver metabolomics analysis support the application of an indication-based metaphylactic treatment with BCC.
... is is consistent with a previous study reported that serum TP levels were significantly affected from the physiological period and increased during lactation when compared to late gestation in dairy cows [27]. is change in protein concentration occurs because the cow in the gestation period experiences great metabolic stress [28]. ...
The late pregnancy (3rd trimester) and the postpartum period (PPP) (calving date or day zero to day 45) are very critical periods for the fertility and production in dairy cows. This study was designed to investigate blood glucose, total protein (TP), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and triiodothyronine (T3) during late pregnancy and the PPP. Twenty-seven apparently healthy multiparous crossbred dairy cows (Friesian × Kenana) were included in this study. The cows were randomly allocated into three groups: group A (n = 10), cows with late pregnancy, group B (n = 7), cows in the PPP, and group C (n = 10), nonpregnant cows as control. One-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data. The results of this study showed that blood glucose was higher in late pregnancy and the PPP than in nonpregnant cows. The TP was significantly lower in late pregnant cows than during the PPP and in nonpregnant cows. Ca, P, and Mg were not significantly different between periods. Serum Fe and T3 were significantly lower during the PPP than that in late pregnant and nonpregnant cows. The results can provide indications of the nutritional status of dairy cows and a diagnostic tool to avoid the metabolic disorders that may occur during late pregnancy and the PPP.
... The increase in phosphorus may be due to hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease), acidosis (shift out of cells), decreased excretion (renal failure, diuretics, K+ sparing), rhabdomyolysis, improper sample collection, handling (hemolysis in some species). It may decrease due to respiratory alkalosis, gastrointestinal loss, urinary loss, hyperaldosteronism, excessive steroids, excessive ACTH, renal tubular acidosis [42][43][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52]. ...
Objective: To determine the reference value of biochemical parameters of improved cattle of Rupandehi district of Nepal.
Methodology: The sampling was done from the various commercial farm of Rupandehi district of Nepal. A total of 53 improved cattle (apparently healthy) were selected from farmers. It was cross sectional purposive sampling. Those cattle were divided into various predefined groups: 1. Dry periods (last 3 weeks of pregnancy) 2. Early lactating (calving to 3 weeks) 3. Mid lactating (2-4 months) and 4. Late lactation (after 4months). The serum analysis was done by using manually operated refractometer for total protein and Calorimeter with the available reagent in the market for all other parameter. Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS-20 using one way ANOVA. The data was presented as mean±standard error (SE).
Result: Total protein was significantly different (P<0.05) at various stage of lactation with highest in III stage, globulin was significantly different (P<0.05) at various stage of lactation with highest value in II stage and BUN was also significantly different (P<0.05) at various stage of lactation with highest value in III stage. The parameters like albumin, SGPT, SGOT, ALP, Creatinine, Calcium and Phosphorous were non- significantly different (P>0.05) among various stage of lactation.
Conclusion: This result demonstrated the reference value of various biochemical parameters of improved cattle at various stage of lactation of Rupandehi district which could be used by veterinarian as a base for Evidence based Veterinary Medicine.
Keywords: Biochemical; Improved Cattle; Lactation Stage; Reference Value; Calorimeter
... These results agree with those of El-Tarabany (2012) who stated that creatinine level was 1.27, 1.33 and 1.52 mg/dl during early, mid and late stages of pregnancy, respectively. Thus, it is recognized that during late gestation the foetal maternal circulation, assumes the load of organic waste of the newborn so, the increase in serum creatinine levels could be attributed to the development of the foetal musculature (Piccione et al., 2012). Urea is nitrogen-based product secreted from the kidneys, and created by the breakdown of proteins and may be utilized by rumen microbial population to synthesize protein (Kioumarsi et al., 2011). ...
... These results agree with those of El-Tarabany (2012) who stated that creatinine level was 1.27, 1.33 and 1.52 mg/dl during early, mid and late stages of pregnancy, respectively. Thus, it is recognized that during late gestation the foetal maternal circulation, assumes the load of organic waste of the newborn so, the increase in serum creatinine levels could be attributed to the development of the foetal musculature (Piccione et al., 2012). Urea is nitrogen-based product secreted from the kidneys, and created by the breakdown of proteins and may be utilized by rumen microbial population to synthesize protein (Kioumarsi et al., 2011). ...
The present work aimed to define the influence of the non-conventional energy sources added to the ration on productive and reproductive performance of ewes. The variety of energy sources such as basal conventional energy (BCE) and admixture of unconventional energy (UCE) protected fat (PF) and corn steep liquor (CSL) were investigated. Ten healthy and mature Rahmani ewes were divided into two groups (n=5). Ewes in 1 st group fed BCE contained gross energy (GE) at a level of 300.21 cal/100 gm diets as 60% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 40% rice straw (RS). While, 2 nd group nourished UCE which given ewes GE at a level of 332.46 cal/100 gm diets (55% CFM + 40% RS + 2.5% PF + 2.5% CSL). All ewes were received both BCE and UCE at 21 days pre-mating season and continued until lambing. The changes in body weight, fertility rate and parity pattern of ewes fed BCE and UCE were measured. Progesterone (P4) profile was also determined during gestation and number of fetuses. Blood metabolites were investigated during different stages of gestation. The obtained results showed that ewes given UCE had slight (P>0.05) improvement in body weight but at prepartum they had significantly (P<0.05) higher live body weight compared with ewes received BCE energy. Ewes fed UCE showed improvement prolificacy (100%) and parity patterns as twins rate (40.00%) compared to ewes received BCE that have feeble prolificacy (83.33%) and twins rate (20.00%). Progesterone (P4) in ewes fed UCE had higher (P<0.05) levels than ewes fed BCE during different stages of gestation. Fetus numbers emphasized that the level of P4 in ewes carrying two fetuses increased (P<0.05) compared to ewes carrying just one fetus throughout gestation. The blood metabolites of ewes fed UCE showed higher (P<0.05) levels of total proteins, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, glucose, calcium and phosphorus than ewes fed BCE. However, serum creatinine, triglycerides and urea-N in ewes fed UCE were insignificantly higher than those of BCE ewes. This study concluded that unconventional energy is recommended to be included in farm animal diets at moderate amounts. Maintaining normal range for most commonly used serum biochemical parameters during different reproductive stages should considered in farm management strategy.
... These results agree with those of El-Tarabany (2012) who stated that creatinine level was 1.27, 1.33 and 1.52 mg/dl during early, mid and late stages of pregnancy, respectively. Thus, it is recognized that during late gestation the foetal maternal circulation, assumes the load of organic waste of the newborn so, the increase in serum creatinine levels could be attributed to the development of the foetal musculature (Piccione et al., 2012). Urea is nitrogen-based product secreted from the kidneys, and created by the breakdown of proteins and may be utilized by rumen microbial population to synthesize protein (Kioumarsi et al., 2011). ...
The present work aimed to define the influence of the non-conventional energy sources added to the ration on productive and reproductive performance of ewes. The variety of energy sources such as basal conventional energy (BCE) and admixture of unconventional energy (UCE) protected fat (PF) and corn steep liquor (CSL) were investigated. Ten healthy and mature Rahmani ewes were divided into two groups (n=5). Ewes in 1 st group fed BCE contained gross energy (GE) at a level of 300.21 cal/100 gm diets as 60% concentrate feed mixture (CFM) + 40% rice straw (RS). While, 2 nd group nourished UCE which given ewes GE at a level of 332.46 cal/100 gm diets (55% CFM + 40% RS + 2.5% PF + 2.5% CSL). All ewes were received both BCE and UCE at 21 days pre-mating season and continued until lambing. The changes in body weight, fertility rate and parity pattern of ewes fed BCE and UCE were measured. Progesterone (P4) profile was also determined during gestation and number of fetuses. Blood metabolites were investigated during different stages of gestation. The obtained results showed that ewes given UCE had slight (P>0.05) improvement in body weight but at prepartum they had significantly (P<0.05) higher live body weight compared with ewes received BCE energy. Ewes fed UCE showed improvement prolificacy (100%) and parity patterns as twins rate (40.00%) compared to ewes received BCE that have feeble prolificacy (83.33%) and twins rate (20.00%). Progesterone (P4) in ewes fed UCE had higher (P<0.05) levels than ewes fed BCE during different stages of gestation. Fetus numbers emphasized that the level of P4 in ewes carrying two fetuses increased (P<0.05) compared to ewes carrying just one fetus throughout gestation. The blood metabolites of ewes fed UCE showed higher (P<0.05) levels of total proteins, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, glucose, calcium and phosphorus than ewes fed BCE. However, serum creatinine, triglycerides and urea-N in ewes fed UCE were insignificantly higher than those of BCE ewes. This study concluded that unconventional energy is recommended to be included in farm animal diets at moderate amounts. Maintaining normal range for most commonly used serum biochemical parameters during different reproductive stages should considered in farm management strategy.
The present study was undertaken to determine the physiological status in pre-partumstage of transition Deoni cows. Animals were screened and selected on the basis of artificial insemination and pregnancy records maintained at the Instructional Livestock Farm Complex (ILFC) and Sub centre, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Udgir (M.S.). Total eighteen transition (3 weeks-prepartum) Deoni cows, of between eight to twelve years of age, were selected for the study and maintained on similar management practices. Biochemical variables including calcium, phosphorus, Ca:P ratio, magnesium, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, A/G ration, urea, creatinine, total bilirubin were estimated in pre-partum transition Deoni cows and were compared with healthy non-pregnant control. The haematological indices like white blood cells (WBC), lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, red blood cells (RBC), were determined and compared with healthy non pregnant control. Result of study revealed that mineral status such as serum calcium and phosphorus was significantly (P<0.01) reduced in prepartum transition animals when compared to the healthy non pregnant (control) group. Energy status in terms of blood glucose level was significantly (P<0.01) reduced in prepartum transition animal as compared to control. It was concluded that there may be a metabolic shift in the level of haematobiochemical parameters in the transient period of Deoni cows. Therefore, henceforth in the ration of transition (pre-partum) Deoni cows, inclusion of soluble carbohydrates and mineral mixture would be beneficial in preventing the development of negative energy balance (NEB).
The present study was designed to assess the interrelationship between hematological, serum biochemical, and endocrinological profiles and oxidative stress markers and lactational stages in crossbred (CB) dairy cows of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI). Healthy (n = 6) CB cows (50–62.50% exotic inheritance; Holstein Friesian × Andaman local) of 4th parity with age of 7–9 years and body weight of 350–400 kg were selected from Cattle Breeding Farm, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Port Blair, ANI. These experimental cows were synchronized with Ovsynch protocol, and parturition was planned to happen in the month of May–June. Lactation was allowed for 305 days. Hematological profiles, serum biochemical profiles, oxidative stress markers and endocrinological profiles were measured at a 15-day interval from day 07 to 305 of lactation (after 6 days of colostrum). The lactation period was divided into first (day 07 to 90), second (day 91 to 180), and third (day 181 to 305) stage of lactation. Average daily milk yield (L) did not vary among the stages of lactations; however, first (8.56 ± 1.26) and second (9.79 ± 0.87) stages had higher milk yield compared to third (7.93 ± 0.79) stage of lactation. Hematological profiles did not vary among the stages of lactation; however, these values were within the range of bovine species at lactation. Serum glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, total protein, globulin, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increased (P < 0.05) and albumin and creatinine decreased (P < 0.05) gradually as lactation stages advanced. Activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and concentration of calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium were nearly similar among the stages of lactation. Similarly, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) increased and prolactin and cortisol decreased (P < 0.05) gradually as stages of lactation advanced. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) increased and malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased (P < 0.05) as lactation stages advanced. The results of the present study indicated that the lactating CB cows suffered nutritional stress (deficiency of protein, carbohydrate, lipids, and minerals), physiological stress (higher cortisol), oxidative stress (higher MDA and deficiency of total antioxidant capacity), and hormonal imbalance (higher prolactin and cortisol and deficiency of thyroid hormones) during the early stages of lactation. Thus, the first and second stages are more stressful events compared to the third stage of lactation in the CB cows in ANI. Therefore, regular monitoring of blood components and accordingly suitable feeding strategies with balanced nutrients and minerals, supplementation of suitable antioxidants, and appropriate management practices need to be implemented to mitigate these stresses and to prevent metabolic disorders with maximum milk production during different stages of lactation in CB cows under humid tropical island ecosystem of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Lactation is a physiological state that has been shown to modify protein metabolism in camels. Few data are available concerning the changes in protein fractions in lactating camels. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lactation on serum protein fractions in camels. Thirty (30) apparently healthy lactating Arabian camels (age 8–12 years, body weight 600–700 kg, parity 2–3). The animals were divided to three equal groups (10 each), as early lactation (< 90 days after parturition), mid-lactation (91–180 days), and late lactation (≥ 181 days). Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture, and serum harvested was used to determine total protein concentration ([TP]) and serum protein fractions using capillary electrophoresis technique. ANOVA (Levine’s and post hoc tests) were used to assess the difference between the groups. Lactating camels showed electrophoretic pattern composed of albumin, α1, α2, β1, β2, and γ-globulins. Serum-[TP] decreased (P ≤ 0.05) during early and mid-lactation to 67.10 and 65.15 g/l, respectively, compared to late lactation (72.31 g/l). The relative (%) and the absolute (g/l) concentrations of albumin, α1, and α2 fractions and A/G ratio showed no significant differences, while β1 and β2 decreased (P < 0.05) during early lactation (6.62%, 4.40 g/l) and mid-lactation (4.58%, 2.92 g/l) compared to mid (10% and 6.42 g/l) and late lactation (9.90%7.20 g/l), respectively. The γ-globulins increased (P < 0.01) during early lactation (21.08% and 14 g/l) compared to mid-lactation (12.40% and 8.12 g/l); however, it decreased (P < 0.05) during mid-lactation compared to late lactation (18.38% and 13.33 g/l). Capillary electrophoresis had been successfully used to assess and interpret the serum protein patterns during early, mid, and late lactations in camels. The results provided baseline data for dairy camel, which could be useful for researchers, veterinary practitioners, and those who work in the field of animal nutrition.
Testing of blood biochemical parameters is a pre-symptomatic diagnostic appliance to determine the nutritional status of any dairy herd and other disorders such as productive and reproductive, these parameters are influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors like breed, age, sex, lactation, pregnancy, health and nutrition status of the cows in dairy herd. The present study was undertaken to estimate the selected biochemical nutritional status of dairy cows in Thiqar province in relation to reproductive status as estrus, pregnancy and lactation, this study was conducted on 40 local healthy cows in the teaching veterinary hospital of Thiqar province, they were divided into four groups estrus, pregnant between 2-8 months, lactating (calving) for 1 to 2 months and heifer (dry) cows of 10 animal for each group, cows were grouped into the previous four categories on the basis of reproductive history.
Adiponectin and resistin are vital adipokines which influence the energy homeostasis, insulin sensitivity and mobilization of body fat stores. The present investigation was performed to elucidate the influence of the stage of lactation (early, mid and late lactation) and parity (first, second and third) on circulating levels of adipokines and lipid profile in Indian dairy cows. Blood samples were collected from 18 Sahiwal cows, six each in their first, second and third parity in their early (30th day), mid (90th day) and late (200th day) lactation. The Body condition score (BCS), plasma levels of resistin, progesterone, estrogen and high density lipoprotein (HDL) affected with stages of lactation, insulin and Ttriglyerides (TG) were found to be affected by different parities while cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were found to be affected with both parity and stage of lactation of cows. The plasma levels of adiponectin showed positive association with progesterone, TG, cholesterol, HDL and LDL and negative association with NEFA in first lactation, and showed positive correlation with resistin (RETN) in third lactation in Sahiwal cows. The plasma levels of resistin showed a positive association with adiponectin and NEFA and negative correlation with BCS, progesterone and HDL in second lactation in Sahiwal cows. In conclusion, this investigation is endow with data of plasma levels of adipokines and lipid profile at different stages of lactation in cows of different parities that may be useful for clinical and experimental interpretations. However further studies are needed to elucidate the physiological significance of adipokines in lactogenesis in dairy animals.
The objective of the present study was to assess the haematological [haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC), erythrocytic indices, total leucocyte count (TLC) and differential leucocyte count (DLC)] changes and metabolic adjustment, viz. blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and cholesterol, in high-yielding Sahiwal and Karan Fries cows during the transition period. For this purpose, blood samples were collected from 8 pregnant Karan Fries crossbred cows and 8 pregnant Sahiwal cows on days -15, -7, 0 (the day of calving), +7 and +15 from calving, and used for estimation of haemoglobin, PCV, TLC, TEC, erythrocytic indices and DLC, and metabolic parameters, such as blood glucose, BUN, NEFA and cholesterol. It was found that haemoglobin concentrations, PCV and TEC increased significantly (P<0.01) up to the day of calving, and gradually decreased thereafter to reach pre-partum levels in the subsequent weeks post-calving. While the TLC, number of neutrophils and monocytes were found to increase (P<0.01), the number of lymphocytes decreased significantly (P<0.01) on the day of calving and then reached pre-partum levels after calving. No significant effect was observed on erythrocytic indices parameters. Blood glucose, BUN and NEFA levels showed an increasing trend (P<0.01) from 2 weeks pre-partum until the day of calving, and then decreased to the pre-partum level after calving. Unlike the other parameters, the plasma cholesterol level increased consistently from 2 weeks pre-partum to 2 weeks post-partum. In conclusion, the results of our study clearly show a definite pattern of the haematological and metabolic adjustment of high-producing dairy cows during the pre-partum to postpartum transition.
The objective of this study was to investigate whether feeding selenium (Se)‐replete cows a Se‐yeast supplement in late pregnancy affects nutrient metabolism and inflammatory response during the periparturient period. Twenty cows were randomly assigned to two groups with 10 cows each. Cows in one group received Se‐yeast at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM during the last 4 weeks before calving in addition to fed a TMR containing supplemented sodium selenite at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM (Se‐yeast), while cows in another group were only fed a TMR containing supplemented sodium selenite at 0.3 mg Se/kg DM (Control). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose, insulin, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), and albumin. In control cows, plasma NEFA, IL‐1β, IL‐6, SAA, and Hp levels increased after calving, but glucose, insulin, and albumin levels decreased after parturition. Se‐yeast supplemental cows had lower postpartum concentrations of NEFA, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, SAA, and Hp, and higher postpartum levels of glucose, insulin, and albumin compared with control cows. The results indicate that feeding Se‐replete cows a Se‐yeast supplement in late pregnancy improves nutrient metabolism and attenuates the inflammatory response after calving.
Objective: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with downer cow syndrome (DCS) in Middle Egypt. Design: Case-control study Animals: A total of 1,300 cross breeding Holestein dairy cattle in 30 small scale farms were involved in the study during the period from September 2018 to August 2019. Procedures: Three hundred and twenty downers (24.6 %) were investigated and were subject to clinical examination. A questioner to farm owners was designed focusing on risk factors for occurrence of downers. Results: The prevalence of downers due to metabolic, digestive, infectious, musculoskeletal and nerve injuries was 8.1%, 6.9%, 5.4%, 2.3% and 1.9%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that conventional ration (OR: 2.8, CI 95%: 4.3-6.2), indoor housing (OR 3.4, CI 95% 2.1-3.7), inadequate hygienic measures (OR: 2.05, CI 95%: 4.55-6.5), concrete flooring (OR: 3.89, CI 95%: 1.4-10.9), > 20 kg daily milk yield (DMY) (OR: 3.037, CI 95%: 1.46-6.34), poor body condition score (BCS) (OR: 20.6, CI 95%: 6.6-6.9), older age (OR: 1.05, CI 95%: 1.05-2.20), first 45 days in milk (DIM) (OR: 12.4, CI 95%: 3.3-4.3), and winter (OR: 1.47, CI 95%: 0.16-1.36) were potential risk factors. DCS showed an association with hyperthermia (P<0.01), tachycardia (P<0.01), polypnea (P<0.01), ruminal hypomotility (P<0.01) and inappetence (P<0.01). Conclusion and Clinical relevance: The present results indicate that DCS is a prevalent issue at smallholders dairy farms. It is mainly due to metabolic causes. Appropriate control strategies are recommended, focusing mainly on the potential risk factors identified in this study.
To prevent postpartum pathologies in cows, the study used the drug “Bolus rozröd +” – boluses containing ionized iodine (1.0%), selenium (0.15%), cobalt (0.50%) and copper (13.4%) and their long-term digestibility (within 6-8 months). The choice of the drug “Bolus rozröd +” as a means of prevention of postpartum pathologies is due to the fact that it contains trace elements that are deficient in the diet of the dairy complex “Ekaterinoslavsky”, the lack of which is a leading link in the etiopathogenesis of postpartum pathologies. A significant advantage is that the drug is relatively inexpensive (~ 10 $), and its components have a long digestibility (within 6-8 months), which can significantly reduce the frequency of injections (single, repeated ─ if necessary), and hence the total cost for preventive measures, treatment of sick animals and reduction of their stress during active milking, which will also reduce financial losses from unproduced milk. The experimental group (25) was given the drug “Bolus rozröd +”, heated to a temperature of 15-200C, orally, using an applicator (bolus) at the rate of 1 bolus per animal. The effectiveness of the drug “Bolus rozröd +” was determined according to the dynamics of biochemical blood tests and clinical evaluation of the postpartum period in cows. It was established that the method of prevention of postpartum pathologies in cows using the drug “Bolus rozrod +” is therapeutically effective, because it improves the biochemical parameters of the blood of animals, in particular, and reduces the incidence of postpartum pathology in general. Thus, the drug reduced the clinical manifestations of the following diseases: ketosis-metritis, placental delay and ketosis, and the number of healthy animals was 20% higher than in the control group, which proves the positive effect of the drug “Bolus rozröd +”.
Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi hubungan konsumsi protein dan energi terhadap bobot badan kering kandang dan laktasi serta produksi susu di bulan pertama awal laktasi. Materi yang digunakan adalah 24 ekor induk sapi perah peranakan FH bunting 8 bulan sampai 1 bulan setelah melahirkan. Penelitian dilakukan secara observasional dan penentuan sampel dilakukan dengan cara purposive sampling. Variabel yang diamati yaitu bobot badan, konsumsi protein kasar (PK) dan total digistibel nutrient (TDN) setiap minggu serta produksi susu awal laktasi bulan pertama. Data penelitian evaluasi ketercukupan PK dan TDN dianalisis secara deskriptif, sedangkan data hubungan PK dan TDN terhadap bobot badan dan produksi susu dianalisis menggunakan korelasi Rank Spearman dan regresi linier sederhana. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa konsumsi PK ternak tidak berkorelasi dengan bobot badan sebelum partus (P = 0,315). Konsumsi TDN dan bobot badan sebelum partus berkorelasi positif moderat (R = 0,598). Konsumsi PK setelah partus berkorelasi positif lemah (R = 0,386) dengan bobot. Konsumsi TDN setelah partus berkorelasi positif moderat (R = 0,674) terhadap bobot. Konsumsi PK setelah partus berkorelasi positif lemah (R = 0,362) dengan produksi susu. konsumsi TDN setelah partus berkorelasi positif moderat (R = 0,552) terhadap produksi susu. Simpulan dari penelitian ini adalah konsumsi PK dan TDN memiliki hubungan positif dengan bobot badan dan produksi susu saat masa awal laktasi.
The goal of this research was to determine the breed, parity and litter size influence on macromineral levels during puerperium in Boer goats and crossbreeds of German Fawn-improved goats. Twenty Boer goats (8 primiparous and 12 pluriparous) and 10 crossbreeds of German Fawn-improved goats (5 primiparous and 5 pluriparous) between 2 and 6 years old were used in this research. Blood samples were taken every four days, starting on the third day until day 40th of puerperium. Potassium, magnesium, sodium and chloride serum concentrations were determined. These were within physiological ranges in Boer goats and in crossbreeds, without significant differences according to parity and the litter size. Boer goats had significant higher (P<0.05) calcium serum level in comparison to crossbreed of German Fawn-improved goats. Phosphorous levels were significantly higher in crossbreed (P<0.05) in comparison to Boer goats. Both production goat types had significantly higher (P<0.05) phosphorous level in primiparous in comparison to pluriparous goats. It was determined that German Fawn-improved goats had average serum calcium level 2.12 ± 0.05 mmol/L (primiparous) and 2.15 ± 0.05 mmol/L (pluriparous), that is below normal ranges (2.3 to 2.9 mmol/L) whereas Boer goat (meat breed), regardless of parity and the litter size, had significantly higher (P<0.05) levels of serumcalcium 2.29 ± 0.04 to 2.38 ± 0.02 mmol/L. In our research, crossbred German Fawn-improved goats during puerperium suffered from moderate hypocalcemia.
Fourty buffaloes in early, mid and late lactation with a drop in a milk production were screened for haematological and blood biochemical profile. In early stage of lactation haemoglobin concentration showed lowered trend as compared to recorded means in other groups of lactating buffaloes. The mean value of TLC in dry pregnant group of buffaloes was 10.05± 0.89 X 103 / cmm showed slightly higher trend than the normal healthy control group. The blood glucose was significantly higher in dry buffaloes (52.72±4.22 mg/dl) than the early and late lactating buffaloes (48.23±3.44 mg/dl). During early stage of lactation the serum total protein values (8.36±0.47 g/ dl) was slightly elevated than the normal healthy control (8.00±0.57 g/dl). The urea nitrogen values differ significantly (P<0.05) amongst different groups of lactating buffaloes. The descending trend in the serum cholesterol concentration in dry pregnant buffaloes compared to lactating buffaloes was observed. There was drop in calcium level during early stage of lactation (8.19±0.83 mg/dl) than the normal healthy buffaloes (11.21±0.19 mg/dl). As the stage of lactation progresses the serum calcium level increased. Serum magnesium concentration in various groups of buffaloes did not differ significantly. Early lactation showed highest susceptibility for ketosis and hypocalcaemia. The metabolic disorder associated with hypophosphatemia was significantly high in dry (advance pregnant) buffaloes.
The purpose of this study was to determine haematological, haematochemical, and electrophoretic reference values for the Girgentana goat in order to form a basis for clinical interpretation. The study included 348 female Girgentana goats aged from 1 to 6 years. The animals were divided into 3 groups: goats aged 1-2 years (group A), goats aged 3-4 years (group B), and goats aged 5-6 years (group C). Blood samples were collected from each animal every morning at the same time (0800) by means of jugular venipuncture, and red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil (NEU), lymphocyte (LYM), monocyte (MONO), eosinophil (EOS), and basophil (BASO) counts, and haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume percent (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and red cell distribution width (RDW) were recorded. Additionally, the concentration of some haematochemical parameters, including alanine-aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), γ-glutamine-transferase (γ-GT), creatinine, β-hydroxybutyrate, urea, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), potassium, sodium, and chloride, and the electrophoretic profile (albumin, α1-globulins, α2-globulins, β–globulins, γ–globulins, total proteins and albumin:globulins ratio) were determined. Statistical analysis (one-way analysis of variance [ANOVA]), followed by Bonferroni's test, showed that there were significant differences only in RBC, MCV, EOS, ALT, AST, creatinine, γ-GT, sodium, urea, NEFA, γ–globulins, and the albumin:globulins ratio (P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant). The values determined in the present study contribute to the knowledge of the reference ranges for the Girgentana goat and can be used for monitoring health and disease diagnosis.
Assessed were changes in selected biochemical parameters taking place during different stages of pregnancy, post-partum, lactation and dry period in ewes. The observations were conducted on 10 clinically healthy Comisana ewes kept on one farm. Blood samples were withdrawn once before the morning feeding during dioestrus phase before pregnancy, and then on week 4, 11 and 18 of pregnancy, week 2 post-partum, week 5, 15 and 25 of lactation and finally once in a dry period (week 32). Blood serum total protein as well as serum albumin increased significantly during pregnancy compared to dioestrus phase. Compared to dioestrus, a significant increase during late gestation and a significant decrease during dry period was shown in blood urea. Total blood lipids showed a significant increase during pregnancy, post-partum and early lactation compared to dioestrus, while total cholesterol and triglycerides showed the opposite trend. The study showed marked changes in certain biochemical parameters of sheep blood serum during late pregnancy, post-partum, lactation and dry period.
Feeding rumen-protected fat (RPF) can improve energy supply for dairy cows but it affects glucose metabolism. Glucose availability is a precondition for high milk production in dairy cows. Therefore, this study investigated endocrine regulation of glucose homeostasis and hepatic gene expression related to glucose production because of RPF feeding in lactating cows. Eighteen Holstein dairy cows during second lactation were fed either a diet containing RPF (mainly C16:0 and C18:1; FD; n = 9) or a control diet based on corn starch (SD; n = 9) for 4 wk starting at 98 d in milk (DIM). Feed intake and milk yield were measured daily and milk composition once a week. Blood samples were taken weekly for analyses of plasma triglyceride, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate, bilirubin, urea, lactate, glucose, insulin, and glucagon. At 124 DIM, an intravenous glucose tolerance test (GTT; 1g/kg of BW(0.75)) was performed after a 12-h period without food. Blood samples were taken before and 7, 14, 21, and 28 min after glucose administration, and plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and glucagon were measured. Glucose half-life as well as areas under the concentration curve for glucose, insulin, and glucagon were calculated. After slaughter at d 28 of treatment, liver samples were taken to measure mRNA abundance of pyruvate carboxylase, cytosolic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase), and facilitative glucose transporter 2. Dry matter intake, but not energy and protein intake, was lower in FD than in SD. Milk yield during lactation decreased more in SD than in FD, and milk protein was lower in FD than in SD. Plasma concentrations of triglycerides and NEFA were higher in FD than in SD. Plasma insulin concentrations were lower and the glucagon:insulin ratios were higher in FD than in SD. Fasting glucose concentration before GTT was lower, and fasting glucagon concentrations tended to be higher in FD than in SD. In liver, fat content tended to be higher and G6Pase mRNA abundance was lower in FD than in SD. Lower hepatic G6Pase mRNA abundance was associated with reduced fasting plasma glucose concentrations, but the glucose-induced insulin response was not affected by RPF feeding. Hepatic G6Pase gene expression might be affected by DMI and might be involved in the regulation of glucose homeostasis in dairy cows, resulting in a lower hepatic glucose output after RPF feeding.
Objective To evaluate the effect of the number of days exposure to a prepartum transition diet on mineral, energy and protein metabolism in dairy cows.
Design A prospective cohort study.
Procedures The prepartum transition diet consisted of ryegrass pasture, cereal hay, grain, grain by-product, protein meals, BioChlor®, rumen modifiers, minerals and vitamins and contained 13.9% crude protein, 10.0 MJ metabolisable energy/kg and a dietary cation anion difference of −35 meq/kg dry matter. Forty cows were bled bi-weekly from their introduction to the prepartum transition diet until day 35 of lactation. Blood samples were submitted for estimation of a range of metabolites. Cubic smoothed splines were fitted to scatterplots of metabolite concentration as a function of day relative to calving and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. Linear regression modelling determined the effect of days exposed, age, body condition score (BSC) and calving day on AUC.
Results The prepartum AUC of blood phosphorus and beta-hydroxybutyrate increased and the AUC of blood calcium and cholesterol decreased with increasing days exposed to the diet. The postpartum AUC of beta-hydroxybutyrate and non-esterified fatty acids decreased with increasing days exposed but increased with days exposed × age and days exposed × BCS, respectively. The AUC of other metabolites did not vary significantly with number of days exposed.
Conclusions Increasing exposure to the prepartum diet significantly altered the AUC of blood metabolites associated with mineral, energy and protein metabolism in ways consistent with improvements in production and reproduction previously reported and the result suggests links between energy, protein and skeletal metabolism.
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of an injection of 10% butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin (Catosal, Bayer, Shawnee Mission, KS) on the day of calving and 1 d later on the prevalence of subclinical ketosis in dairy cattle in the early postpartum period. Cows from 4 herds (n=1,122) were randomized to receive either 25mL of 10% butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin or 25mL of sterile water subcutaneously on both days. Each milliliter of Catosal contained 0.05mg of cyanocobalamin and 100mg of butaphosphan, which provided 17.3mg of P in the form of [1-(butylamino)-1-methylethyl]-phosphonic acid. Serum was sampled for beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentration at calving (pretreatment) and again between 3 and 10 d in milk. A subset of samples from mature cows was also evaluated for serum Ca and P concentrations. When cows from all age groups were included in the analysis, there was no difference between the median serum BHBA concentrations of cows in the 2 treatment groups, and no difference in the proportion of hyperketonemic cows (serum BHBA >or=1,200micromol/L) during the first week postpartum. When the analysis was restricted to mature cows (lactation >or=3), both the median BHBA concentration and the proportion of hyperketonemic cows were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the placebo group. Serum Ca and P concentrations did not differ between treatment groups. Our results suggest that injection of butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin on the day of calving and 1 d later may decrease the prevalence of subclinical ketosis during the week after calving in mature dairy cows, but not in first- and second-lactation animals.
Heat stress has an enormous economic impact on the global dairy industry, but the mechanisms by which hyperthermia negatively affect systemic physiology and milk synthesis are not clear. Study objectives were to evaluate production parameters and metabolic variables in lactating dairy cows during short-term heat stress or pair-fed conditions coupled with bST administration. Twenty-two multiparous Holstein cows were subjected to 3 experimental periods: 1) thermoneutral conditions with ad libitum intake for 7 d (P1); 2) heat stress (HS) with ad libitum intake (n=10) or pair-fed (PF) in thermoneutral conditions (n=12) for 7 d (P2), and 3) 7 d of HS or PF in conditions as described in P2 with recombinant bovine somatotropin administered on d 1 (P3). All cows received an intravenous glucose tolerance test (GTT) on d 5 of each period. Heat stress conditions were cyclical and temperatures ranged from 29.4 to 38.9 degrees C. Rectal temperatures and respiration rates increased during heat stress (38.6-40.4 degrees C and 44-89 breaths/min, respectively). Heat stress reduced dry matter intake by 30% and by design PF cows had similar intake reductions (28%). During heat stress and pair-feeding, milk yield decreased by 27.6% (9.6kg) and 13.9% (4.8kg), respectively, indicating that reduced feed intake accounted for only 50% of the decreased milk production. Milk yield increased with recombinant bovine somatotropin in both HS (9.7%) and PF (16.1%) cows. Cows in both groups were in positive energy balance (3.95 Mcal/d) during P1 but entered negative energy balance during P2 and P3 (-5.65 Mcal/d). Heat stress and pair-feeding treatments decreased (9.3%) basal glucose concentrations. Heat stress conditions had no effect on basal NEFA levels during P2; however, PF cows (despite a similar calculated energy balance) had a 2-fold increase in basal NEFA concentrations. Both groups had increased plasma urea nitrogen levels during P2 and P3 compared with P1. Basal insulin levels increased (37%) during P2 and P3 in HS cows but did not differ between periods in PF cows. During P2 and compared with P1, PF cows had a decreased rate of glucose disposal, whereas HS cows had a similar disposal rate following the GTT. During P2 and compared with P1, PF cows had a reduced insulin response whereas HS cows had a similar insulin response to the GTT. In summary, reduced nutrient intake accounted for only 50% of heat stress-induced decreases in milk yield, and feed intake-independent shifts in postabsorptive glucose and lipid homeostasis may contribute to the additional reduction in milk yield.
The body condition score (BCS) of a dairy cow is an assessment of the proportion of body fat that it possesses, and it is recognized by animal scientists and producers as being an important factor in dairy cattle management. The scale used to measure BCS differs between countries, but low values always reflect emaciation and high values equate to obesity. The intercalving profile of BCS is a mirror image of the milk lactation profile. Cows lose condition for 50 to 100 d postcalving, because of homeorhetic changes that occur in the somatotropic axis and the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin, and the upregulation of lipolytic pathways in adipose tissue. Management and feeding have little effect on early postcalving BCS loss (wk 1 to 4 postcalving) until the natural period of insulin resistance has passed and the somatotropic axis has recoupled. There is evidence, however, that management and diet can influence the timing of recoupling of the somatotropic axis and the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin, and gene expression differences in adipose tissue 30 d in milk confirm an effect of energy intake on lipogenic enzymes. The BCS in which a cow calves, nadir BCS, and the amount of BCS she loses postcalving are associated with milk production, reproduction, and health. Body condition score may also be a valid indicator of animal welfare, but further research is required to determine the effect of BCS and BCS change on how a cow "feels." Although the actual strength of the association may vary, there is relative consistency in the associations among calving and nadir BCS, and BCS change on milk production, postpartum anestrous, the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and days open, the risk of uterine infection, and the risk of metabolic disorders. For many production and health variables, the association with BCS is nonlinear, with an optimum calving BCS of 3.0 to 3.25 (5-point scale); lower calving BCS is associated with reduced production and reproduction, whereas calving BCS >/=3.5 (5-point scale) is associated with a reduction in early lactation dry matter intake and milk production and an increased risk of metabolic disorders. Ongoing research into the automation of body condition scoring suggests that it is a likely candidate to be incorporated into decision support systems in the near future to aid producers in making operational and tactical decisions.
In this study, we determined the detailed composition of and seasonal variation in Dutch dairy milk. Raw milk samples representative of the complete Dutch milk supply were collected weekly from February 2005 until February 2006. Large seasonal variation exists in the concentrations of the main components and milk fatty acid composition. Milk lactose concentration was rather constant throughout the season. Milk true protein content was somewhat more responsive to season, with the lowest content in June (3.21 g/100 g) and the highest content in December (3.38 g/100 g). Milk fat concentration increased from a minimum of 4.10 g/100 g in June to a maximum of 4.57 g/100 g in January. The largest (up to 2-fold) seasonal changes in the fatty acid composition were found for trans fatty acids, including conjugated linoleic acid. Milk protein composition was rather constant throughout the season. Milk unsaturation indices, which were used as an indication of desaturase activity, were lowest in spring and highest in autumn. Compared with a previous investigation of Dutch dairy milk in 1992, the fatty acid composition of Dutch raw milk has changed considerably, in particular with a higher content of saturated fatty acids in 2005 milk.
Most dairy cows suffer uterine microbial contamination postpartum. Persistent endometritis often develops, associated with reduced fertility. We used a model of differential feeding and milking regimes to produce cows in differing negative energy balance status in early lactation (mild or severe, MNEB or SNEB). Blood hematology was assessed preslaughter at 2 wk postpartum. RNA expression in endometrial samples was compared using bovine Affymetrix arrays. Data were mapped using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Circulating concentrations of IGF-I remained lower in the SNEB group, whereas blood nonesterified fatty acid and beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations were raised. White blood cell count and lymphocyte number were reduced in SNEB cows. Array analysis of endometrial samples identified 274 differentially expressed probes representing 197 recognized genes between the energy balance groups. The main canonical pathways affected related to immunological and inflammatory disease and connective tissue disorders. Inflammatory response genes with major upregulation in SNEB cows included matrix metalloproteinases, chemokines, cytokines, and calgranulins. Expression of several interferon-inducible genes including ISG20, IFIH1, MX1, and MX2 were also significantly increased in the SNEB cows. These results provide evidence that cows in SNEB were still undergoing an active uterine inflammatory response 2 wk postpartum, whereas MNEB cows had more fully recovered from their energy deficit, with their endometrium reaching a more advanced stage of repair. SNEB may therefore prevent cows from mounting an effective immune response to the microbial challenge experienced after calving, prolonging the time required for uterine recovery and compromising subsequent fertility.
Empirical evidence suggests that prolonged underfeeding of protein to late-pregnant dry cows can have modest negative carry-over effects on milk volume and/or protein yield during early lactation, and may also cause increased incidence of metabolic diseases associated with fatty liver. However, assessment of requirements is hampered by lack of information on relationships between dietary intake of crude protein (N x 6.25) and metabolizable protein supply during late pregnancy, and by incomplete understanding of the quantitative metabolism of amino acids in maternal and conceptus tissues. Inability of the postparturient cow to consume sufficient protein to meet mammary and extra-mammary amino acid requirements, including a significant demand for hepatic gluconeogenesis, necessitates a substantial, albeit transient, mobilization of tissue protein during the first 2 weeks of lactation. Ultimately, much of this mobilized protein appears to be derived from peripheral tissues, especially skeletal muscle and, to a lesser extent, skin, through suppression of tissue protein synthesis, and possibly increased proteolysis. In the shorter term, soon after calving, it is likely that amino acids required for hepatic glucose synthesis are diverted from high rates of synthesis of splanchnic tissue and export proteins, including serum albumin. The prevailing endocrine milieu of the periparturient cow, including major reductions in plasma levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-I, together with insulin resistance in peripheral tissues, must permissively facilitate, if not actively promote, net mobilization of amino acids from these tissues.
Previous research from our laboratory demonstrated that cows fed supplemental fat throughout the dry period in an attempt to increase body condition score (BCS) had little hepatic lipid accumulation at d 1 postpartum compared with cows fed an isocaloric high-grain diet or a lower energy control diet. However, results were confounded by lower dry matter intake and loss of BCS by cows fed the fat-supplemented diet. Here, cows were fed a control diet (C) moderately high in nonfiber carbohydrates (NFC) or an isocaloric fat-supplemented, low NFC (F) diet to reassess the effects of supplemental fat throughout the dry period on peripartal lipid accumulation in liver. A more energy-dense, high-NFC diet supplemented with fat (CF) was also fed to test the efficacy of supplemental fat in a diet with similar carbohydrate composition but higher energy density. Intakes of dry matter and net energy for lactation were similar among treatments throughout the experiment, although diet x day interactions during the last 21 d before parturition indicated that cows fed CF decreased intakes more slowly. Cows gained similar amounts of BCS and body weight among diets prepartum, but cows fed C tended to lose more BCS and body weight around parturition. Milk production and milk components did not differ among treatments. Prepartum concentrations of glucose, insulin, total protein, nonesterified fatty acids, and mu-hydroxybutyrate in plasma were similar among treatments. Supplemental fat increased prepartum concentrations of urea and cholesterol in plasma. Postpartum concentrations of metabolites and insulin in plasma were similar among treatments. Concentrations of total lipid and triglyceride in liver increased at parturition, whereas hepatic glycogen concentration decreased, but concentrations were not different among treatments. Supplemental fat fed prepartum did not affect peripartal lipid accumulation in liver tissue and did not benefit postpartum milk production.
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of diets supplemented with anionic salts on bone metabolism of dairy goats and sheep. Twelve Saanen goats and 12 Ostfrisean milk sheep (fourth lactation) were divided into 2 groups each [sheep control (SC), goat control (GC); sheep anionic salts (SA), goat anionic salts (GA)]. Each group was fed a different diet in the last 10 d of gestation. Groups SC and GC received a normal diet according to the requirements of goats and sheep in this stage of gestation. Groups SA and GA received supplemental anionic salts. The dietary cation-anion difference (DCAD) was +524 (SC) and +515 (GC) vs. -163 (SA) and -164 (GA) mEq/kg of dry matter. Blood and urine samples were collected daily until parturition. Serum Ca, P, Mg, serum crosslaps (CTX), osteocalcin, 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D (VITD), urinary pH, and urinary Ca concentrations were analyzed. Bone mineral density and bone mineral content were measured with peripheral quantitative computer tomography. The bone resorption marker CTX showed significant differences between the animals supplemented with anionic salts and the control animals in goats, but not in sheep. The goats receiving anionic salts had greater CTX concentrations throughout the administration of the salts. In sheep, a difference was only observed on the day of parturition. Similar observations were made in VITD concentrations, although a significant difference between the goat groups was only observed 3 d prepartum. The bone formation marker osteocalcin was lower prepartum in the animals supplemented with anionic salts. The urinary pH was lower in the SA and GA animals, whereas urinary Ca concentrations were greater. Bone mineral content and bone mineral density decreased in all groups around parturition. In conclusion, this experiment showed that the addition of anionic salts in goats led to greater bone resorption rates while on this feeding regimen. It can be concluded that the anionic salts induced a mild metabolic acidosis with all its effects on calcium metabolism. These effects were not evident in milk sheep.
Selected biochemical parameters were observed in the puerperal period of goats, raised under our conditions. The blood samples were collected from v. jugularis on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 36, and 40 after parturition. A significant decrease in the concentrations of sodium with their lowest values was recorded on day 28 post partum. By the end of the evaluated period, their values did not significantly change and were within the range of 146.8 ± 5.52 to 149.3 ± 1.24 mmol.l-1. In the puerperal period, the concentrations of potassium did not show a statistical significance. Their lowest values found on days 3 and 32 did not exceed the limit of the reference values. The mean concentrations of calcium in the evaluated period (1.73 ± 0.20 - 1.95 ± 0.06 mmol.l-1) ranged under the limit of the reference values. Statistically significant values of phosphorus were not found in the puerperal period. The values of magnesium ranged from 0.89 ± 0.11 to 1.00 ± 0.14 mmol.l-1. During the whole puerperal observation, the mean values of total cholesterol were from 2.06 ± 0.43 to 2.75 ± 0.01 mmol.l-1. There was a statistically significant decrease in total lipids on day 7 post partum, with the lowest values of 1.76 ± 0.16 g.l-1. During next days of the postpartum period, their concentrations were under the level of reference values. A statistically significant increase was recorded in total lipids on day 40 post partum. Their dynamics in the evaluated period did not change and ranged within 65.39 ± 2.57 - 71.79 ± 1.55 g.l-1. The concentrations of the biochemical parameters observed in the postpartum period in goats raised under our conditions are discussed.
To clarify the relationship between serum total cholesterol (TCho) values during the dry period and leukocytes after calving in healthy dairy cows, peripheral leukocytes of 16 Holstein cows were observed from 1 month before calving to 7 months after calving. The cows were divided into two groups: those with less than 100mg/dl of serum TCho during the dry period (low-cholesterol group;n=8) and those with more than 100 mg/dl of serum TCho (control group;n=8).Serum TCho values were significantly lower in the low-cholesterol group than in the control group at month -1 and month 0 (calving day to 10 days after calving) and from 2 to 7 months after calving. The CD3+ cell population tended to decrease from month 3 to month 5 in the low-cholesterol group. The MHC Class II+high cell (high fluorescence intensity B cell) population was significantly lower at month -1 and month 0 in the low-cholesterol group than in the control group from 1 to 7 months. The neutrophil population was also higher during the observation period in the low-cholesterol group than in the control group. These results suggest that in dairy cows immunological conditions after calving are related to serum TCho values during the dry period.
Twenty-eight healthy female Kilis goats were used to investigate the changes which occur in certain hematological and biochemical plasma parameters during the peri-partum period. The hematological parameters recorded were Ca, P, total protein, total cholesterol, Glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT). A marked decrease (p
The aim of this work was to obtain comparative evaluation of the content of calcium (both the total and ionic forms), magnesium and phosphorus in the blood serum of goats during three physiological states characterized by much instability of the mineral balance. The study involved 15 goats, divided into 3 groups in different physiological states (bre- eding season, pregnancy, lactation period). The study showed that the mean content of the ionic form of calcium (A,D - 1.210; B,E - 1.135; C,F - 1.115) and total calcium (A,D -1.640; B,E - 2.075; C,F - 2.045) in all the groups was within the range reference concentrations. It can be thought that the low content of calcium was caused by its deficiency in fodder and unstable hormonal balance (pregnancy and lactation period). The reason why the mean content of calcium did not reach the reference level for this species was a high content of P (A,D - 1.650; B,E - 2.040; C,F - 2.125) and Mg (A,D - 0.970; B,E - 1.415; C,F - 0.990) in blood serum.
The aim of this study, was to evaluate the changes of electrolytes (Na, K), minerals (Ca, Mg, P, Fe) and some parameters related to mineral metabolism (iron binding capacity, Transferrin, Ferritin, Folate, Vitamin B12), just before and after parturition, in healthy Siirt hair goats. For this aim, 10, healthy, 2-4 years old, female Siirt hair goats, were used as material. The blood samples were collected 1 week before and after parturition. The levels of Na, K, Ca, Mg, of blood serum did not change with gestation. P, Fe, IBC, transferrin, ferritin, vitamin B12 and folate concentrations increased after parturition (p<0.05). It was found out, in this study that iron especially and protein levels related to iron had significant differences before and after parturition in a short time.
Clinical and subclinical ketoses are important metabolic diseases in dairy cattle during early lactation and are associated with losses in milk production and several other periparturient diseases. Limited information is available regarding the prevalence of clinical and subclinical ketoses in dairy herds in Iran. The objectives of this study were (1) to detect serum β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and glucose concentrations during pre- and postparturition periods, (2) to investigate the correlation between the blood concentrations of BHB and glucose pre- and postpartum, and (3) to establish a cutoff point of blood BHB concentration for detection of subclinical ketosis (SCK) in Iranian Holstein cow. In the present study, blood BHB and glucose concentrations of 13 Iranian Holstein cows (4–6years old) from three commercial dairy herds were measured at 60, 30, and 7days before and 30 and 60days after calving. Cows had the highest concentration of BHB and the lowest concentration of glucose at 30days postpartum period, which were significantly (p < 0.05) different from the prepartum period. High negative correlation coefficients (p < 0.05) were observed between serum BHB and glucose concentrations at 7days prepartum (r = −0.84) and 30days postpartum (r = −0.76) periods. The distribution of blood BHB concentrations seemed to suggest a cutoff point of 1,200μmol/l to distinguish healthy cows from cows with SCK. At this cutoff point, 15.4% of cows had serum BHB concentration higher than the cutoff point of 1,200μmol/l. The results of this study showed that the concentration of blood BHB during lactation is significantly higher than in the dry period, possibly due to higher energy demands of animals at this time, and the peak prevalence of SCK occurs in the first month after calving.
We investigated the changes in the plasma concentrations of oxidative stress markers in periparturient dairy cows in hot conditions. This study was performed on 10 cows from day -5 to day 10 after parturition. The experimental duration was divided into three periods: period 1 (5 days before parturition); period 2 (5 days after parturition); and period 3 (from day 6 to day 10 after parturition). The average rectal temperature in the cows during the experimental period was more than 39 °C. Plasma aspartate aminotransferase activities in periods 2 and 3 were higher than that in period 1 (P<0.05). Blood urea nitrogen concentration in period 3 was lower than those in periods 1 and 2 (P<0.05). The total ascorbic acid concentration in the plasma in period 2 was greater than those in periods 1 and 3 (P<0.05). Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) concentrations in periods 2 and 3 were greater than that in period 1 (P<0.05). TBARS concentration was positively correlated with aspartate aminotransferase activity (P<0.05). These results suggested that oxidative stress increased in cows after parturition under hot climatic conditions.
Objectives of this study were to evaluate maternal and fetal influences on uterine and umbilical blood flows and nutrient fluxes of gravid uterine tissues of cows. Brahman cows with Brahman or Charolais fetuses and Charolais cows with Brahman or Charolais fetuses were used. Indwelling catheters were placed into a uterine artery and vein, an umbilical vein, and a fetal femoral artery and vein at 220 +/- .4 d after mating. Uterine and umbilical blood flows (liters/min) and net uptakes of oxygen, glucose, lactate, alpha-amino N, urea N, ammonia N, and estrone sulfate by the gravid uterus, fetus, and uteroplacenta were determined on d 227 +/- .4. Uterine blood flows in Brahman cows with Brahman (5.01) or Charolais (4.66) fetuses were similar but less (P less than .001) than in Charolais cows with Brahman (7.14) or Charolais fetuses (9.24), which differed (P less than .01). Umbilical blood flows of Charolais (3.78) were greater (P less than .01) than those of Brahman (2.29) fetuses. Rate of placental D2O clearance as well as net fetal uptake of oxygen, glucose, and alpha-amino N, gravid uterine uptake of alpha-amino N, and uteroplacental uptake of glucose and release of estrone sulfate were greater with Charolais than with Brahman fetuses. Gravid uterine oxygen uptake and estrone sulfate release and gravid uterine and uteroplacental lactate output were influenced by the interaction between cow and fetal breed. It is suggested that fetal growth may be limited by uterine blood flow and by function of the uteroplacenta, particularly in late gestation.
Several factors affecting serum total cholesterol level of lactating Holstein cows were statistically evaluated. One thousand and sixty-three lactating Holstein cows were examined in a period from July, 1982 to April, 1983. Data from each cow were classified according to farms, number of calvings, health condition, daily milk yield and lactation day. Serum total cholesterol was significantly influenced by all these factors, especially daily milk yield and lactation day. However, no significant difference in total cholesterol level was observed between the summer and winter periods when other factors such as the number of calvings, health condition and lactation day were excluded.
Ionized Ca in blood, standard ionized Ca, pH, and total Ca in plasma were measured in 33 Holstein-Friesian dairy cows and their calves. Blood was taken immediately postpartum and at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after calving. Cows and their calves were grouped according to parity. Concentrations of ionized and total Ca consistently were higher in neonates than in the dams. Parity differences were significant for maternal ionized Ca and total Ca. However, parity was not significant for ionized or total Ca in the blood of corresponding calves. Changes in ionized Ca concentration in calves of first lactation cows largely were attributable to perinatal acidosis. In contrast to total Ca concentrations, the ionized Ca and standard ionized Ca concentrations in dams and calves were relatively stable throughout the study, suggesting that ionized Ca concentration in blood is indicative of the Ca status of the dairy animal.
Blood samples were obtained from 12 Iranian fat-tailed sheep during 7 weeks pre-partum, at parturition and 7 weeks post-partum. The lipids measured were cholesterol, triglyceride, total lipid, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-cholesterol. The concentrations of cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol and VLDL-cholesterol during the 7 weeks pre-partum, at parturition and the 7 weeks post-partum were significantly different (P < 0.05). One week before parturition, the concentrations of cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol and VLDL-cholesterol were higher (P < 0.05) than at other periods. The lowest concentrations of these parameters were observed 2-3 weeks after parturition. In this study, significant positive correlations were observed between the time of sampling (pre-partum, parturition and post-partum) and serum cholesterol (r = 0.22; P < 0.01) and HDL-cholesterol (r = 0.25; P < 0.01).
Phosphorus (P) balance, and blood plasma P and saliva P concentrations were measured in multiparous dairy cows through two lactations and two dry periods. The cows were fed three amounts of P at either 100, 80 or 67% of the Dutch P recommendation, actually resulting in dietary P concentrations of 3.2 to 3.9, 2.6 to 2.9 and 2.2 to 2.6 g P/kg dry matter during lactation for the three treatments, respectively. On the basis of plasma P values as low as 0.9 mmol/l and saliva P values as low as 5.1 mmol/l during the second lactation period within the experiment, the 67% group was considered to be deficient in P. By decreasing milk production, and thus lowering P losses with milk, P retention in the 67% group remained near zero. The P supply with the 80% ration was considered to be just sufficient. At high milk yield and marginal dietary P concentrations, plasma P and saliva P concentrations were decreased. The higher P intake in high-compared with low-producing cows resulted in a constant absolute fecal P excretion, due to the fact that the apparent P digestibility was raised with increasing milk yield. There was a direct relationship between milk P output and the percentage of apparent P digestibility for individual animals.
Leptin may play a role in the endocrine-metabolic processes that guarantee the physiological course of lactation in dairy cattle. This study was aimed at determining the changes in plasma concentrations of leptin and some of the main hormones and metabolites involved in the lactogenetic process in high-yielding dairy cows throughout lactation; we also wanted to assess whether leptin secretion is subjected to seasonal influences. Blood samples were collected from 23 Italian Friesian dairy cows from the end of a lactation to the ninth month of the subsequent one; in addition, blood was sampled from 47 dairy cows in different phases of lactation during February and July. Plasma concentrations of leptin, growth hormone (GH), insulin, prolactin (PRL), glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and urea were quantified by either validated radioimmunoassay (RIA) or enzymatic colorimetric methods. At the beginning of lactation, GH concentrations significantly increased, while a significant reduction occurred in leptin and insulin. This endocrine condition, such as the significant increase in NEFA plasma concentrations, is indicative of a marked lipid mobilization. In the more advanced stages of lactation, when both energy and protein balances become positive, leptin plasma concentrations increased, whereas GH and NEFA concentrations declined. During the summer months, a significant increase in leptin plasma concentrations, irrespective of the phase of lactation, was observed. Collectively, our findings suggest that, in dairy cows, leptin may represent a 'metabolic signal' of animal's status of fattening and nutritional level; in addition, leptin seems to be influenced by photoperiod and environmental temperature.
The aim of the present study was to determine the normal ranges of the most commonly used serum biochemical parameters of sheep reared under Greek breeding conditions, as well as to test for the effects of the age and reproductive status of the animals on the normal values of these parameters. In total, 200 clinically healthy Chios sheep from 10 farms were used in the experiment. For the determination of the effect of age 150 sheep were assigned in three groups. Group A consisting of 50 lambs aged 2-6 months (mean +/- SD: 4.15 +/- 1.08), group B of 50 non-pregnant ewes into lactation aged 1-3 years (mean +/- SD: 2.12 +/- 0.86) and group C of 50 non-pregnant ewes into lactation aged more than 3 years (mean +/- SD: 5.98 +/- 1.66). For evaluating the effect of reproductive status 50 pregnant ewes in dry period were used, 15-30 days before the expected day of lambing (group D), along with the 100 non-pregnant ewes into lactation of groups B and C (group E). Blood sampling was performed once, in dry ewes from December to January, and in lambs and lactating ewes from March to May. The results showed that of the 14 biochemical parameters determined in serum, six were significantly affected by the age and eight by the reproductive stage of the animals.
Specific reference intervals are needed for each animal species for appropriate interpretation of hematological and serum biochemical results. The aim of the present study was to investigate the blood composition of growing calves in order to evaluate the need for defining reference values for different age groups. Thirty two Holstein calves (18 male and 14 female) were blood sampled. A blood sample was taken within 24-48 h following birth and at 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84 days of age. CBC determination and the measurements of some blood serum metabolites, enzymes, electrolytes and minerals were performed. There were significant age related changes for most hematological and biochemical parameters (p < 0.05) except for the numbers of band neutrophils and monocytes and the amounts of sodium, potassium, chloride and BUN. The results of the present study showed that for some hematological and biochemical parameters such as hemoglobin, MCV, MCH, MCHC, inorganic phosphorus, serum total protein, globulin, AST and ALP at the first three months of life and also, neutrophil numbers and glucose levels at the 24-48 h of life, the age specific reference values must be considered for precise interpretation of laboratory results.
This study was conducted to investigate individual metabolic and endocrine adaptation to lactation under conditions of identical housing and feeding conditions in high-yielding dairy cows. Forty-five cows were studied on a research farm under standardized but practical conditions. From wk 2 before calving until wk 14 postpartum, blood samples were collected at weekly intervals and assayed for blood chemistry and various metabolites and hormones. Body weight, BCS, and backfat thickness were also recorded weekly. Milk yield, milk composition, and feed intake and energy balance were accordingly measured during the postpartum phase. The animals were retrospectively classified according to their plasma concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB): cows in which a BHB threshold of 1 mM was exceeded at least once during the experiment were classified as BHB positive (BHB+); cows with BHB values consistently below this threshold were classified as BHB negative (BHB -). Using this classification, differences for NEFA and glucose concentrations were observed, but the mean calculated energy balance did not differ between the groups during the experimental period (-22.2 MJ of NE(1)/d +/- 4.7 for BHB+ and -18.9 MJ of NE(1)/d +/- 4.9 for BHB-). In BHB+ cows, the peripartum decrease (P < 0.05) of BW, BCS, and backfat thickness was more pronounced than in BHB- cows. Mean milk yields did not differ between groups. However, BHB+ cows had greater milk fat and lesser milk protein contents (P < 0.05), resulting in a greater (P < 0.05) fat:protein ratio than in BHB- cows. Thus, to some extent, cows were able to compensate for the negative energy balance by adjustments in performance. Milk acetone concentrations followed BHB concentrations in blood. Insulin-like growth factor-I and leptin concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) in BHB- cows during the time of observation than in the BHB+ cows. Comparing the reproductive variables recorded (first increase of progesterone, first service conception rate, number of services per conception, interval from calving to first AI, interval from first AI to conception, and days open) between the 2 groups yielded no significant differences. Our findings imply that despite comparable energy balance, there is considerable individual variation of the adaptive ability of cows during early lactation based on a variety of metabolic and endocrine variables.
Individual variability in physiological adaptation to metabolic stress during early lactation in dairy cows kept under equal conditions