Beta-hydroxybutyrate Concentrations Research Articles

DETECTION OF SUBCLINICAL PREGNANCY TOXEMIA AND EVALUATION OF GLYCAEMIC STATUS IN MALABARI DOES

Aim: The aim of the study was to screen Malabari does for subclinical pregnancy toxemia and to evaluate their glycaemic status. Materials and Methods: This study consist of 4 groups; Group I early pregnant does (n = 7), Group II late pregnant does with one fetus (n = 6), Group III late pregnant does with two fetuses (n = 8), and Group IV nonpregnant does (n = 8). The pregnancy was confirmed by 3.5 Megahertz B-mode ultrasonography. The concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and glucose was analyzed in the blood samples. Results and Discussion: Significant increase in serum BHB concentration was found in Groups I and II when compared to control group. Group III showed highly significant increase when compared to control group. Among the four groups selected, late pregnant animals with two fetuses had a BHB level of 0.81 ± 0.10 mmol/l, which shows that those animals were in subclinical pregnancy toxemic stage. A highly significant decrease in plasma glucose concentration was found in Group I, Group II, and Group III; compared to controls. Hypoglycemia was seen in all the three groups studied. Conclusion: Hyperketonemia not only represents a disease sign but rather acts in a multifunctional way in promoting development of pregnancy toxemia.

The Relationship Between Subclinical Ketosis and Ruminal Dysfunction in Dairy Cows

Abstract Ketosis is still an important problem which must be solved in dairy herds. Early precise diagnosis and proper evaluation of the cause of the disease is essential for good management of ketosis on dairy farms. The aim of our work was to analyse the occurrence of rumen dysfunction in connection with subclinical ketosis in dairy herds and to evaluate the relationships between beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration in blood and metabolic parameters in blood, urine and rumen fluid. We analysed the results of metabolic profile tests performed in dairy cattle herds from 1,338 cows. The concentration of BHB significantly correlated with glucose, NEFA (nonesterified fatty acids), bilirubin, AST (aspartate aminotransferase), GGT (γ-glutamyl transferase), urea, magnesium and calcium in blood serum and with following parameters of rumen fluid – acetate, propionate, butyrate, acetate/propionate and infusoria. Significant but weak correlations were found between BHB and urine parameters (pH, specific gravity, potassium, magnesium, chloride). Subclinical ruminal acidosis was found in 23.1% and 16.7% of dairy cows with light (BHB 1.2–2 mmol/L) and more severe subclinical ketosis (BHB >2 mmol/L) and simple ruminal indigestion in 16.7% and 30%, respectively. On the basis of performed analysis we can conclude that rumen dysfunction is an important factor for the development of ketosis. Veterinary practitioners should suggest checking the feeding management in their diagnostic work with the aim to distinguish primary and secondary ketosis. Only complex and precise diagnostic work allows applying correct and successful therapy not only for individual animals but also for herd health management.

In vivo treatment of experimental neurocysticercosis with praziquantel nanosuspensions-a metabolic approach.

Neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic infection of the nervous system and currently represents a serious public health issue in many regions of Latin America, Asia, and Africa. To date, praziquantel is one of the chosen drugs for the treatment of neurocysticercosis. Its mechanism of action is based on the inhibition of different biochemical pathways within the parasite which contribute to its death. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze, for the first time, whether the nanoformulations of praziquantel would modify the energetic pathway of Taenia crassiceps cysticerci, after an intracranial inoculation in BALB/c mice. Praziquantel nanosuspensions were formulated with polyvinyl alcohol, poloxamer 188, and poloxamer 407, as stabilizers. These formulations exhibited particle size in a range of 74-285nm and zeta potential values in a range of - 8.1/- 13.2 depending on the type of stabilizer. Physical stability study at both 4 ± 2 and 25 ± 2°C indicated that praziquantel (PZQ) nanoparticles were stable in terms of solubility and particle size after 120-day storage. In vivo studies demonstrated that those nanosystems were able to produce significant modifications on the concentrations of oxaloacetate, citrate, pyruvate, alpha-ketoglutarate, malate, succinate, lactate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, fumarate, and propionate involved in the metabolism of Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Therefore, these nanoformulations may be considered as a promising tool to deliver praziquantel to the brain for the effective management of neurocysticercosis.

Alterations in key metabolic sensors involved in bovine cystic ovarian disease

High-producing dairy cows frequently suffer metabolic alterations that cause different diseases, which could decrease the reproductive efficiency of the herd. Among these reproductive disorders, cystic ovarian disease (COD) has been related to alterations in metabolites and hormonal factors such as insulin, adiponectin and leptin. The aim of this study was to determine the protein expression of adiponectin and some of its downstream targets in ovarian follicles of control cows and cows with clinical diagnosis of COD. We also analyzed some key metabolic sensors in plasma and follicular fluid from both groups. In follicular cysts, we detected higher protein expression of adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2), 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT1) and acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1 (ACOX1) relative to control antral follicles (p < 0.05). This was related to higher plasma adiponectin concentration in cows with COD than in control cows (p < 0.05). On the other hand, insulin concentrations showed an opposite pattern (p < 0.05). Furthermore, we found alterations in local and systemic concentrations of several metabolites. In this regard, in follicular fluid of cystic cows, the concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate were higher (p < 0.05), whereas the concentrations of glucose and triacylglycerol were lower than in follicular fluid from control cows (p < 0.05). Besides, in both follicular fluid and plasma of cows with COD, the concentration of cholesterol was higher than in control animals (p < 0.05). These results evidence a local altered scenario of some metabolic sensors in cystic follicles, which could generate an adverse microenvironment for the resumption of ovarian activity, possibly causing the persistence of follicles and the recurrence of COD.

Meal Intake Is Suppressive of Ketogenesis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes

Aim: To investigate whether the intake of a meal suppresses ketogenesis in patients with type 1 diabetes. Methods: 30 patients with type 1 diabetes with no C-peptide, fasted overnight, were divided into 3 groups of 10 patients each. The first (group 1) continued the fast for 5 hours after arrival in our clinical research unit while the second (group 2) was administered a high fat high calorie (HFHC) meal without preprandial insulin and the third (group 3) was administered the meal with preprandial insulin. Blood samples were obtained prior to and after the meal at hourly intervals for 5 hours. Results: In group 1, glucose and glucagon concentrations remained unchanged while FFA concentrations increased (by 74±16%) as did acetoacetate (AcAc) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations (by 52±13% and 64±16%, respectively). In group 2, the intake of the meal without preprandial insulin induced marked increase in glucose, glucagon and FFAs (by 235±32%, 81±18% and 75±17%, respectively) concentrations. However, the meal induced significantly lower increase in AcAc or BHB concentrations (increased by 29±9% and 35±11%, respectively) compared to group 1. In group 3, given preprandial insulin before the meal, there was a significant reduction in glucose and glucagon concentrations as compared to group 2 and a fall in FFA concentrations (by 41±12%) below baseline levels. There was no significant increase in AcAc and BHB. Conclusions: While a prolonged fast was associated with maintenance of glucose and increases in FFA, AcAc and BHB concentrations, the intake of the meal prevented increases in AcAc and BHB in spite of increases in glucose, glucagon and FFA concentrations. These actions are consistent with an anti-ketogenic effect of the meal intake even in type 1 diabetes with an absence of β cell function. Disclosure H. Ghanim: None. K. Green: None. J.M. Hejna: None. N.D. Kuhadiya: Speaker's Bureau; Self; AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk A/S, Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC.. Advisory Panel; Self; AstraZeneca. Consultant; Self; Dexcom, Inc. M. Batra: Speaker's Bureau; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. A. Chaudhuri: Speaker's Bureau; Self; AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly and Company, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Merck &amp; Co., Inc., Novo Nordisk Inc. P. Dandona: Advisory Panel; Self; AstraZeneca. Consultant; Self; AstraZeneca. Research Support; Self; AstraZeneca.

Continuous Remote Care Model Utilizing Nutritional Ketosis Improves Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors in Patients with Prediabetes

Prediabetes (preT2D) is a major U.S. public health concern, as over 84 million adults are at greater risk of cardiovascular disease and progression to type 2 diabetes (T2D). Abnormal glucose, BMI, blood pressure, and blood lipids are risk factors for progression to T2D. The purpose of this single-arm prospective longitudinal investigation was to assess change in risk factors after one year of treatment with a continuous remote care model utilizing nutritional ketosis, behavior change, and support from a health coach, medical provider, and peers provided via an online clinic. Patients with preT2D enrolled (n=116); at 1 year, 95 participants (82%) remained active. Results are reported for participants with measurements completed at 1 year and baseline; n varied across measures (range: 77-95). Changes from baseline to 1 year included: weight -13.1±9.5 kg (from 110.6±23.5 kg, p&amp;lt;0.0001), BMI -5.0±3.5 kg/m2 (from 38.9 kg/m2, p&amp;lt;0.0001), HbA1c -0.3±0.3% (from 5.9±0.2%, p&amp;lt;0.0001), fasting glucose -9±14 mg/dL (from 110±15 mg/dL, p&amp;lt;0.0001), systolic BP -6±14 mmHg (from 130±13 mmHg, p=0.0003), diastolic BP -3±9 mmHg (from 83±8 mmHg, p=0.0032), triglycerides -43±55 mg/dL (from 148±67 mg/dL, p&amp;lt;0.0001), and HDL-C +7±9 mg/dL (from 52±14 mg/dL, p&amp;lt;0.0001). Seventy percent (54/77) of participants lost &amp;gt;7% body weight. At 1 year, 51.1% (45/88) participants achieved fasting glucose &amp;lt;100 mg/dL (up from 24/94, 25.5% at baseline). No completer progressed to T2D, and 60.7% (54/89) achieved HbA1c &amp;lt;5.7% (up from 14/94, 14.9% at baseline). Most participants (56.3%, 54/96) maintained mean blood beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations ≥0.5 mmol/L, indicating moderate adherence to nutritional advice. These results demonstrate that patients with preT2D can be supported remotely with this continuous care model to improve risk factors associated with progression of preT2D to T2D. Ongoing research will evaluate the continued sustainability of this intervention and prevention of T2D. Disclosure A. McKenzie: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health Corp. S. Hallberg: Board Member; Spouse/Partner; Atkins Nutritionals, Inc.. Employee; Self; Virta Health. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health. N.H. Bhanpuri: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health Corp. S.J. Athinarayanan: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp. J. McCue: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health Corp. J.P. McCarter: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health Corp. J. Volek: Stock/Shareholder; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Advisory Panel; Self; Atkins Nutritionals, Inc.. Other Relationship; Self; Beyond Obesity. S. Phinney: Employee; Self; Virta Health Corp.. Advisory Panel; Self; Atkins Nutritionals, Inc..

Physiological and behavioural responses of grazing dairy cows to an acute metabolic challenge

Due to seasonal changes in the quality and quantity of herbage, the nutrient supply to grazing dairy cows is not always sufficient, which may increase their metabolic load. To investigate the temporal pattern of behavioural changes in relation to concomitant metabolic alterations, we subjected 15 multiparous early lactating Holstein dairy cows (24 (SD 7.4) days in milk) to a short-term metabolic challenge, which we provoked by abruptly withdrawing concentrate for 1week. Cows grazed full-time and were supplemented with concentrate in experimental week (EW) 1 and EW 3, whereas concentrate was withdrawn in EW 2. We analysed milk and blood samples to characterise the metabolic changes and found that the total yield of milk and protein decreased (p<0.05) and fat yield, fat-to-protein ratio and acetone content increased (p<0.05) from EW 1 to EW 2. Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were lower (p<0.05), and concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate were higher (p<0.05) in EW 2 compared with EW 1. Apart from ingestive and rumination behaviour and activity, we also monitored the use of an automated brush on pasture. While time spent eating and ruminating increased (p<0.05) in EW 2 compared with EW 1, time spent idling decreased (p<0.05). Concomitantly, while time standing and moving increased (p<0.05) from EW 1 to EW 2, walking time decreased (p<0.05). The daily proportion of cows using the automated brush decreased (p<0.05) in EW 2 compared with EW 1, as did the duration of brushing per day. In conclusion, grazing cows experiencing a metabolic challenge try to compensate for the nutrient deficiency by increasing eating time, a behavioural element important for short-term survival. Due to the strong impact of weather conditions, we cannot currently recommend observation of outdoor brushing activity to address short-term alterations in the metabolic state of grazing cows.

Association of metabolic and inflammatory markers with milk yield in postpartum dairy cows treated with ketoprofen.

Inflammation together with lipolysis and ketogenesis in early lactation can cause low productivity and may be harmful to the cow health. The objective of the study was to determine if ketoprofen treatment in the first days following parturition would positively affect the milk production and whether it was associated with the metabolic and inflammatory response. The study was conducted on 30 cows divided into two groups of 15 cows each. The experimental group was treated with 3 mg × kg. bw. -1 ketoprofen for three consecutive days after parturition. The blood samples were collected on the first day of treatment and in the first and second week postpartum and they were analyzed for non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), tumour necrosis factor-a(TNF-a) and haptoglobin. The results suggested that ketoprofen-treated cows with a higher milk production had a significantly lower concentration of NEFA, BHB, TNF-a and haptoglobin in the first and second week postpartum. No differences were found in the control group in metabolic status regardless of the achieved level of milk production. Ketoprofen administration in postpartum cows can enhance the milk yield. The higher milk yield in the experimental group might be associated with a lower degree of lipolysis, ketogenesis and reduced inflammatory response in the first two weeks postpartum.

Metabolites able to predict uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows during the transition period

This study aimed to identify possible metabolites able to predict puerperal uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows (Holstein x Gir) in the transition period. We hypothesized that, as what has been observed for Holstein cows, a negative energy balance (NEB) may increase the incidence of uterine diseases. Thirty-four lactating crossbred cows (½HG, ¼HG, ¾HG, and 5/8HG) were evaluated during prepartum (-60d and -30d), calving, and postpartum (+14d, +21d, and +35d) periods, being divided into two groups (with and without uterine diseases). NEB evaluations were based on the concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) at calving and 14 days postpartum. Nearly 1/3 of the crossbred cows presented an NEB, characterized by a significant increase in NEFA with no BHBA increase; however, it was less intense than that observed in Holstein cows during the transition period. There was a significant difference between cows with and without uterine diseases in NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum, as well as body condition score (BCS) during prepartum. In conclusion, the occurrence of uterine diseases during the transitional period is related to the BCS in the prepartum period, besides serum NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum.

Survey of ketolactia, determining the main predisposing management factors and consequences in Hungarian dairy herds by using a cow-side milk test

The aims of the survey were to determine the prevalence of ketosis in dairy herds by measuring the concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) in milk by Keto-Test (Sanwa Kagaku Kenkyusho, Nagoya,...

Effect of maternal metabolism on fetal supply: Glucose, non-esterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations in canine maternal serum and fetal fluids at term pregnancy

The progressive adaptations in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism during canine pregnancy are reflected in the concentrations of glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). The levels of these metabolites in the bitch likely affect fetal concentrations and the composition of amniotic and allantoic fluids (AMF and ALF, respectively). We studied 31 canine parturitions (Cesarean sections) and found that glucose, NEFA and BHB concentrations were significantly higher in maternal serum than in AMF or ALF. Glucose levels in maternal serum, AMF and ALF were closely related (R2 ≥ 0.821, P < 0.0001) as well as serum and AMF BHB levels (R2 = 0.661, P < 0.0001). In maternal serum, increases in NEFA were associated with increased BHB, and both were negatively related to glucose (P ≤ 0.010). To estimate the effect of the metabolic burden of pregnancy, we evaluated these variables in relation to the dam’s body weight and to the ratio of litter weight to the dam’s body weight (LW/BW). Maternal serum glucose was not influenced by LW/BW, but it was lower in small than in large/giant bitches. Small breed dogs and those with >10% LW/BW had significantly higher serum NEFA and BHB concentrations. Glucose in AMF and ALF was independent of LW/BW (P ≥ 0.399). AMF NEFA was lower and BHB higher, if LW/BW was >10% (P ≤ 0.048). In conclusion, the extent of the metabolic load of pregnancy in bitches depends on breed size and on the ratio of litter weight to dam’s body weight. Maternal concentrations of glucose, BHB and NEFA determine the concentrations of these metabolites in fetal fluids.

Blood metabolite profile in Holstein-Friesian cows fed diets varying in dry matter and metabolizable energy density during early lactation

Dietary effects on circulating concentrations of some blood metabolites were assessed in Holstein-Friesian cows in early lactation. Thirty-two lactating cows were randomly assigned to receive four diets differing in dry matter intake (DMI) and metabolizable energy (ME) density, namely low dry matter and metabolizable energy (LL), low dry matter and high metabolizable energy (LH), high dry matter and low metabolizable energy (HL), high dry matter and high metabolizable energy (HH), and concentrations of some blood metabolites determined. At the end of the 5-week study, the level of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) was higher (P < 0.001) in cows on diet HH than those on diets HL, LH, or LL. The glucose concentration was higher (P < 0.001) in cows on HH and LH than those on HL and LL diets, while those of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) were similar in cows on the four dietary treatments. Cows fed HL and LL diets recorded higher (P < 0.001) beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations than those on the HH or LH diets. Urea concentration was higher (P < 0.001) in cows on LL than that of their counterparts on the other diets. IGF-I was positively correlated (P < 0.01) with glucose, but negatively related with BHB (P < 0.01) and urea (P < 0.05). Glucose was negatively correlated with BHB (P < 0.01) and urea (P < 0.05). NEFA was negatively correlated with urea (P < 0.05) while BHB was positively correlated with urea (P < 0.01). The levels of metabolites in the blood can reflect the nutritional status of cows during early lactation.

Occurrence of subclinical metabolic disorders in dairy cows from western Santa Catarina state, Brazil

ABSTRACT: The management of dairy herds during the transition period has been studied in several studies due to the severe adjustments to which cows are submitted in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and minerals at early lactation. This is a period when occurs most of the metabolic disorders in dairy cows, especially in their subclinical form. Hitherto a lack of information exists on the occurrence of subclinical metabolic disorders in Brazil. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of subclinical metabolic disorders, including ketosis, liver lipidosis, hypocalcemia, lactacidemia and hypomagnesemia, as well as phosphorous, copper and zinc deficiency in dairy cattle from the western region of Santa Catarina state, southern Brazil, during the first 30 days of lactation. Blood samples from 15 dairy herds managed in intensive production (free-stall) and semi-confined systems were collected. Milk yield, reproduction and health data of the herd were recorded in a questionnaire, based on the records of the farm and on the observations during samples collection. Blood samples were collected for the measurement of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and lactate using portable monitors at the farm and for obtaining serum to perform the following biochemical determinations: total calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, albumin, aspartate transaminase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK) by UV-visible spectrophotometry, and copper and zinc by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. In this study, the cutoff points considered were as follows: serum BHB concentrations &gt;1.2mmol/L for subclinical ketosis, AST &gt;140U/L and CK &lt;94U/L for subclinical liver lipidosis, serum lactate concentrations &gt;2.2mmol/L for lactacidemia, serum total calcium concentrations &lt;7.5mg/dL for subclinical hypocalcemia, serum magnesium concentration &lt;1.7mg/dL for hypomagnesemia, serum phosphorus concentration &lt;2.5mg/dL for phosphorus deficiency, serum copper concentrations &lt;32.8μg/dL for copper deficiency, and serum zinc concentrations &lt;60μg/dL for zinc deficiency. The results showed an occurrence of 9% for subclinical ketosis, 11% for subclinical liver lipidosis, 44.5% for lactacidemia, 11% for subclinical hypocalcemia, 7.4% for subclinical hypomagnesemia, 10.7% for copper deficiency and 8.7% for zinc deficiency. According to the survey results, the occurrence of subclinical ketosis, lipidosis and hypocalcemia in western Santa Catarina differ from data found in the literature

Sugarcane bagasse as only roughage for crossbred lactating cows in semiarid regions

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of different levels of sugarcane bagasse, as exclusive roughage, on nutrient intake and digestibility, feeding behavior, microbial protein synthesis, and dairy performance of crossbred cows. Ten lactating Girolando breed cows (600±34.3 kg body weight) were assigned to a replicated 5×5 Latin square design. The control diet, based on spineless cactus, sugarcane bagasse, and concentrate, was formulated to meet the average production of 20 kg of milk per day, with 3.5% fat. The evaluated levels of sugarcane bagasse were: 30, 38, 46, and 54% dry matter bases. The intake and digestibility of dry matter decreased linearly with sugarcane bagasse levels. Rumination time was higher in cows fed 54% sugarcane bagasse. The inclusion levels had no effect on non-esterified fatty acid contents or on the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis, but beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations showed a quadratic pattern to the bagasse levels. Higher yields of 3.5% fat-corrected milk were obtained with cows fed 30% sugarcane bagasse. Sugarcane bagasse inclusion in the diet of crossbred dairy cows decreases their performance; however, the bagasse can be used as exclusive roughage when associated with 70% concentrate.

Factors related to variation in the susceptibility to subacute ruminal acidosis in early lactating Simmental cows fed the same grain-rich diet

Cow variation in the ruminal pH responses to high-grain feeding has been noted but the factors responsible for susceptibility are inconclusive. The present study investigated a broad spectrum of responses including feed intake, performance, ruminal pH and temperature, chewing activity, feed sorting, blood metabolic variables, and acute phase response (APR) of early lactating cows. Eighteen lactating Simmental cows (initial DIM = 66.6 ± 20.45; BW = 712 ± 101.3 kg; milk yield = 28.7 ± 7.0 kg, mean ± SD) were balanced by parity and DIM and randomly assigned to 2 feeding regimens: control (n = 6) and SARA diet (n = 12). The feeding trial lasted 36 d consisting of a 1-week baseline and a 4-week experimental period. All cows started at baseline being fed a 40% concentrate diet. Afterward, the control cows continued with the 40% concentrate diet for the next 29 d, whereas the SARA cows were fed a 60% concentrate diet in the first (SARA1), third (SARA2) and last week (SARA3) of the feeding trial. In the second week, they were fed the control diet. Based on the area of reticular pH below 6.0, the SARA cows were further divided into susceptible and tolerant groups (n = 6 each). Compared with tolerant, the susceptible cows had a longer duration of reticular pH < 6.0 throughout the feeding trial, especially during the first week of the high-grain feeding (927 vs. 255 min/d), but there were no differences in reticular pH between control and tolerant cows. The susceptible cows consumed on average 19.8 kg DMI/d or 13.7% of metabolic BW, with values being lower than the tolerant cows (21.8 kg/d and 15.3%, respectively). The susceptible cows produced on average 2 rumination boli less per hour, but had 9 chews more per each rumination bolus than the other groups and this balanced the total ruminating chews among groups. The susceptible cows had a longer chewing and ruminating time per kg of DMI. When fed the 60% concentrate diet, the susceptible cows had shorter eating time and lesser eating chews during post-morning feeding hours compared to the other groups. Compared with tolerant, there was a tendency for lower milk fat and protein concentration in susceptible cows. The susceptible cows had lower concentrations of serum beta-hydroxybutyrate compared to control and cholesterol compared to the other groups. Compared with the other groups, the susceptible cows sorted the high-grain diet in favor of coarse particles in SARA1 and 2, but this sorting activity diminished in SARA3. The APR variables and liver enzymes did not differ among cow groups. In conclusion, cows showed different susceptibility to high grain feeding and this corresponded to alterations of chewing activity and serum lipids but not to APR and liver health variables.

Serum and plasma metabolites associated with postpartum ovulation and pregnancy risks in suckled beef cows subjected to artificial insemination.

Two experiments were conducted to determine relationships of blood metabolite concentrations, BW, BCS, and rump fat depth with postpartum ovulation and pregnancy risks, as well as their utility in predicting those outcomes in suckled beef cows. In experiment 1, plasma glucose collected 10 and 3 d before AI of suckled beef cows at seven locations did not differ between cows that had resumed estrous cycles (ovulated) before AI compared with anovulatory cows, whereas plasma glucose 3 d before AI was greater (P < 0.01) in cows that became pregnant compared with nonpregnant cows. Serum beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) tended (P = 0.09) to be less in ovulatory cows compared with anovulatory cows 10 d before AI, but was unrelated to pregnancy status. Receiver-operator derived true-positive (sensitivity) and false-positive (1-specificity) risks were determined for plasma glucose and serum BHB as predictors for postpartum ovulation and pregnancy status. Serum BHB 3 d before AI produced true-positive and false-positive risks of 82% and 37%, respectively, when predicting ovulatory status before AI. Serum BHB 10 d before AI produced a true-positive and false-positive risks of 92% and 25%, respectively, when predicting pregnancy status. In experiment 2, blood was collected weekly for 12 wk from multiparous suckled beef cows to assess blood metabolite concentrations in addition to concurrent weekly assessments of BW, BCS, and rump fat. When blood metabolites and physical measures were normalized to parturition reflecting changes occurring during the first 6 wk after calving, we observed reduced (P < 0.05) concentrations of serum BHB and NEFA, and greater (P < 0.05) rump fat and BCS in cows that ovulated before first AI, whereas reduced (P < 0.05) plasma glucose was characteristic of cows that became pregnant. When blood metabolites and physical measures were normalized to the onset of the AI program reflecting changes during 6 wk before AI, ovulatory cows had increased (P < 0.05) BCS and lower (P < 0.05) NEFA from 3 to 6 wk before the onset of the AI program compared with anovulatory cows. With all predictor variables in regression models, some multiple correlation coefficients (R2) exceeded 50% when predicting postpartum ovulatory status, but those for predicting pregnancy risk were less than 25%. Although measures of BCS and BHB during 6 wk after calving were related to postpartum ovulation risk, rump fat, glucose, BCS, and NEFA were associated with cows that were ovulatory and pregnant.

Lipoliza i ketogeneza kod krava u ranoj laktaciji

Peripartal metabolic stress is characterized by increased lipid mobilization, when non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) are increased, as well as by increased ketogenesis, when the concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is increased. NEFA are metabolized in all tissues but the main organ is the liver. Possible processes are: a) complete oxidation of NEFA, b) partial oxidation and synthesis of ketone bodies (BHB), c) development of triglycerides from NEFA that can be transported or stay in the liver when fatty liver is apparent. Moreover, increased lipolysis and ketogenesis can cause oxidative stress because concentrations of MDA and/or TBARS are positively correlated with NEFA and BHB concentrations. The increase in NEFA during the peripartal period affects the cellular immunologic response by changing intracellular signals, gene expressing control, activation of transcriptional factors, apoptosis induction and by modifying mediators of lipid production. Increased proportion of cows with high NEFA and BHB concentrations in the herd can cause reduced milk yield at the end of a standard 305-day lactation. NEFA concentrations can be related to postpartal ovarian activity, especially given that blood NEFA concentrations represent NEFA concentrations in the ovarian follicular fluid. Cows on farms with lower scores of animal welfare and nutrition have higher concentrations of cortisol, NEFA, BHB, bilirubin, glucose and urea. NEFA and BHB concentrations in early lactation can be used for estimating metabolic adaptation in the first 8 weeks after calving. For the estimation of metabolic adaptation, increased lipolysis has a greater significance than decreased anabolic parameters.

Periparturient lipolysis and oxylipid biosynthesis in bovine adipose tissues.

The periparturient period of dairy cows is characterized by intense lipolysis in adipose tissues (AT), which induces the release of free fatty acids (FFA) into circulation. Among FFA, polyunsaturated fatty acids are susceptible to oxidation and can modulate inflammatory responses during lipolysis within AT. Linoleic and arachidonic acid oxidized products (oxylipids) such as hydroxy-octadecadienoic acids (HODE) and hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acids (HETE), were recently identified as products of lipolysis that could modulate AT inflammation during lipolysis. However, the effect of lipolysis intensity during the transition from gestation to lactation on fatty acid substrate availability and subsequent AT oxylipid biosynthesis is currently unknown. We hypothesized that in periparturient dairy cows, alterations in AT and plasma fatty acids and oxylipid profiles coincide with changes in lipolysis intensity and stage of lactation. Blood and subcutaneous AT samples were collected from periparturient cows at -27±7 (G1) and -10±5 (G2) d prepartum and at 8±3 d postpartum (PP). Targeted lipidomic analysis was performed on plasma and AT using HPLC-MS/MS. We report that FFA concentrations increased as parturition approached and were highest at PP. Cows exhibiting high lipolysis rate at PP (FFA>1.0 mEq/L) had higher body condition scores at G1 compared to cows with low lipolysis rate (FFA<1.0 mEq/L). Concentrations of plasma linoleic and arachidonic acids were increased at PP. In AT, 13-HODE, and 5-, 11- and 15-HETE were increased at PP compared to G1 and G2. Concentrations of beta hydroxybutyrate were positively correlated with those of 13-HODE and 15-HETE in AT. Plasma concentrations of 5- and 20-HETE were increased at PP. These data demonstrate that prepartum adiposity predisposes cows to intense lipolysis post-partum and may exacerbate AT inflammation because of increased production of pro-inflammatory oxylipids including 5- and 15-HETE and 13-HODE. These results support a role for certain linoleic and arachidonic acid-derived oxylipids as positive and negative modulators of AT inflammation during periparturient lipolysis.

Body condition score, nonesterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations in goats with subclinical ketosis

Body condition score, nonesterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate concentrations in goats with subclinical ketosis

Inflammatory and metabolic responses to an intramammary lipopolysaccharide challenge in early lactating cows supplemented with conjugated linoleic acid.

Supplementation of dairy cows with trans-10, cis-12 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) allows nutrient repartitioning despite an energy deficiency in early lactation, which might be a benefit for the immune system, too. In this study, we investigated potential nutrient sparing effects of CLA in early lactating cows with low plasma glucose concentrations exposed to an intramammary lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Fifteen multiparous Holstein cows were exposed to an intramammary LPS challenge in week 4 p.p. Eight cows (CLA) were supplemented daily with 70g of lipid-encapsulated CLA (6.8g trans-10, cis-12 and 6.6g of the cis-9, trans-11 CLA isomer; CLA) and seven cows with 56g of control fat (CON). Blood samples were obtained every 30min along with rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rate, and milk samples were taken hourly until 10hr after the LPS application. Plasma was analysed for concentrations of glucose, free fatty acids, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), cortisol, insulin and glucagon. In milk, somatic cell count and activity of lactate dehydrogenase were determined. Initial plasma glucose concentration was lower in CLA than in CON. During the immunostimulation, CLA had higher glucose concentrations than CON, and BHB decreased distinctly in CLA, whereas CON cows maintained BHB concentration at a lower level. Body temperature in CLA increased earlier, the difference between peak and basal temperature was higher, and the decline thereafter occurred earlier. In conclusion, CLA supplementation of early lactating cows exposed to an intramammary LPS challenge affected local and systemic immune responses. We assume that CLA supplementation triggered glycogen storage. Cows supplemented with CLA provided more glucose and preferentially used BHB as an energy source during the immune response. The more intense metabolic and more concentrated endocrine responses support an immunomodulatory effect of CLA supplementation.