NEFA Concentrations Research Articles

The association of circulating prepartum metabolites, minerals, cytokines and hormones with postpartum health status in dairy cattle

The objectives were to evaluate differences in circulating prepartum metabolites, minerals, cytokines and hormones based on postpartum disease category and determine critical circulating concentrations of prepartum analytes associated with postpartum disease in 229 cattle from 11 commercial dairies in Alberta, Canada. Blood was collected at 8.8 ± 2.1 d prepartum and analyzed for a wide array of analytes. Cattle were categorized as healthy (n = 76) or as having inflammatory (INF; n = 28), metabolic (MET; n = 34) or inflammatory and metabolic (INFMET; n = 91) postpartum diseases. The prepartum circulating concentrations of Cu were lesser (0.84 vs. 0.90 μg/mL; P = 0.02) and concentrations of Mo (19.1 vs. 16.5 ng/mL; P = 0.04) and NEFA (0.27 vs. 0.18 mmol/L; P = 0.01) were greater in INFMET cattle compared with healthy cattle. The critical threshold for Cu, Mo and NEFA prepartum concentration that predicted INFMET was ≤ 0.81 μg/mL (sensitivity 45.5% and specificity 74.3%), ≥ 9.91 ng/mL (sensitivity 70.0% and specificity 52.7%) and ≥ 0.19 mmol/L (sensitivity 62.2% and specificity 79.7%), respectively. Regardless of differences in the prepartum circulating concentrations of Cu, Mo and NEFA among healthy cattle and those with postpartum disease, the use of these analytes to predict the incidence of postpartum diseases was limited.

Exercise intensity and physical fitness modulate lipoproteins profile during acute aerobic exercise session

Physical inactivity has emerged as an important cardiometabolic risk factor; however, the beneficial impacts of physical exercise according physical fitness status are still unclear. To analyze the lipoproteins and immune-endocrine response to acute aerobic exercise sessions performed at different intensities according physical fitness status and evaluated the gene expression in monocyte cells. Twelve individuals, divided into Low and High VO2max, performed three randomized acute exercise sessions at low (<60% VO2max), moderate (60–75% VO2max), and high (>90% VO2max) intensities. Blood samples were collected pre, immediately post, and 60 minutes post-exercise to analyze NEFA, triacylglycerol, non-HDL-c, HDL-c, PAI-1, leptin and adiponectin concentrations. Blood samples were collected from another set of twelve individuals for use in monocyte cell cultures to analyze L-CAT, CETP, and AMPK gene expressions. Low VO2max group pre-exercise exhibited higher postprandial leptin and total cholesterol concentrations than High VO2max group (p < 0.05). Exercise performed in high-intensity promoted a decreased leptin and NEFA levels (p < 0.05, for both), but for PAI-1 levels was decreased (p < 0.05) only for the Low VO2max group. Triacylglycerol levels decreased after all exercise sessions (p < 0.05) for both groups, and HDL-c exhibited decrease during moderate-intensity (p < 0.05), but this scenario was attenuated in Low VO2max group. Low VO2max individuals exhibit some metabolic-endocrine disruption, and acute aerobic exercise sessions performed at low, moderate, and high intensities are capable of modulating metabolic-endocrine parameters, mainly at high-intensity, in a physical fitness-dependent way, given that Low VO2max group was more responsive and seem to be able to appropriate more exercise-related benefits.

Milk fatty acid composition reflects metabolic adaptation of early lactation cows fed hay rich in water-soluble carbohydrates with or without concentrates

We hypothesized that alterations in metabolic status systematically affect the milk fatty acid (FA) composition and thus milk FA can reveal the metabolic status of dairy cows. We, therefore, investigated changes in the milk FA profile of 24 Simmental cows fed high-quality ryegrass hay (HQ hay) rich in water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) in the diet, which was shown to affect energy partitioning towards either milk production or body reserve retention, and consequently the metabolic status depending on the dietary proportion of concentrates supplied. The test diets (per kg dry matter (DM)) were CON (600 g fiber-rich hay + 400 g concentrate), 60HQ (600 g HQ hay + 400 g concentrate), 75HQ (750 g HQ hay + 250 g concentrate), and 100HQ (100 g HQ hay). As opposed to the fiber-rich hay, the HQ hay was richer in crude protein (CP; 223 vs. 65 g/kg CP in DM), WSC (198 vs. 110 g/kg WSC in DM) and 18:3 n-3 (560 vs. 316 g/kg FA). The feeding trial was performed from 10 d before calving until 28 d thereafter and milk samples were collected on 7, 14, 21 and 28 d after calving for the FA analysis. Linear and non-linear regression analyses of milk FA and serum metabolites (NEFA and BHB) concentrations were performed. Energy secreted with the milk relative to the intake was highest in cows fed CON and 100HQ and lowest in the 75HQ cows. Both energy-deficient groups (CON and 100HQ) showed elevated levels of milk 18:1 n-9 at the expense of some mammary de novo FA compared to the other two groups (P < 0.05). Cows fed 60HQ secreted greater amounts (g/d) of the de novo FA compared to 75HQ and CON (P < 0.05). The HQ hay promoted the level of conjugated linoleic acids in milk regardless of the inclusion level, and, when used at 75 % or more in the diet, also promoted the level of 18:3 n-3 (P < 0.001) due to increased 18:3 n-3 intake with the hay. The modeled data using the ratios of 15:0 to 18:1 n-9, 14:0 to 18:1 n-9 and the sum of de novo FA to 18:1 n-9 were consistently associated with serum concentrations of NEFA and BHB with a ratio below 0.02, 0.2 and 0.4 indicating excessive mobilization and greater risk of metabolic disturbances. The relationships between the FA ratios and BHB were confirmed with a meta-analysis using means of published studies. In summary, milk FA reflect the metabolic status of early lactation dairy cows. Feeding HQ hay generally promotes health beneficial C18 FA in milk.

Effects of Supplementation with Anti-Inflammatory Compound Extracted from Herbs in Healthy and Obese Cats.

BackgroundObesity has become a serious public health problem all over the world, and prevalence of obesity has increased in cats. Obesity is characterized by continuous low-grade inflammation based on oxidative stress by excessively produced reactive oxygen species (ROS). Supplementation with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds is very effective to relieve the obesity condition. A plant extract mixture containing Rhus verniciflua and some other herbs, Rv-PEM01-99, shows anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in animals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementation with Rv-PEM01-99 as an anti-inflammatory compound in healthy and obese cats.Materials and MethodsTen healthy mix breed cats and four obesity disease cats were used. The healthy cats were randomly divided into control and test groups. Anti-inflammatory compound, Rv-PEM01-99, in which quercetin derivative is the main component, was supplemented to the healthy test group and the obesity disease cats at the dose of 100–120 mg/kg/day (2.5–3.0 mg/kg/day as quercetin) for 4 weeks. Metabolites, hormones and enzymes were measured before and after the compound supplementation.ResultsThe anti-inflammatory compound supplementation decreased serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations as inflammatory markers in both healthy and obesity disease cats. In obesity disease cats, plasma total cholesterol concentrations and AST and ALT activities decreased significantly after the compound supplementation.ConclusionQuercetin derivative seems to have strong anti-inflammatory activities. In the healthy cats, anti-inflammatory compound supplementation decreased plasma NEFA and SAA concentrations. In the obesity disease cats, the compound supplementation may have alleviated obesity disease by relieving inflammation and improvement of lipid metabolism in livers.

Some Negative Effects of Heat Stress in Feedlot Heifers May Be Mitigated via Yeast Probiotic Supplementation.

This study was designed to determine if supplementation of a combination live yeast and yeast cell wall product in feed could mitigate the negative impacts associated with heat stress (HS). Crossbred, phenotypically similar beef heifers (n = 32; BW = 385 ± 43 kg) were fed a standard finishing ration without (CON) or with a combination of a live yeast (1.5 g/hd/d) and yeast cell wall product (2.5 g/hd/d; YEAST; Phileo Lesaffre Animal Care, Milwaukee, WI). After 50 d of supplementation, heifers were transported to an environmentally-controlled facility and placed in individual bleeding stalls after indwelling jugular catheters and vaginal temperature (VT) loggers were inserted. Heifers were kept in thermoneutral (TN) conditions for 48 h [temperature-humidity index (THI) ~67; d 1–2] then were subjected to HS for 4 d (peak THI ~80; d 3–6). From d 2–6, hourly blood samples were collected for serum isolation from 1400 to 1800 h and again from 2200 to 0200 h which represented the daily targeted peak and nadir of THIs. A whole blood sample was collected twice daily at 1400 and 2200 h for complete blood counts (CBC). There was no difference in BW (P = 0.14) or ADG (P = 0.53) between the treatments during HS. Yeast-supplemented heifers exhibited reduced VT during HS compared to CON heifers (P < 0.01). There was no difference in water intake during the TN phase (P = 0.25); however, YEAST heifers consumed more water/h (P < 0.01) and had increased drinking bouts (P < 0.01) during HS compared to CON heifers. Respiration rates (RR) did not differ (P = 0.21) during TN, but YEAST heifers tended (P = 0.09) to have decreased RR during HS compared to CON heifers. There were no differences between treatments when evaluating CBC parameters (P ≥ 0.10). There was a tendency (P = 0.08) for greater cortisol in the CON than YEAST heifers during HS; however, glucose (P = 0.38) and NEFA (P = 0.70) concentrations did not differ. In summary, supplementation of live yeast and yeast cell wall products to feedlot heifers may mitigate some of the negative effects associated with HS in feedlot cattle as observed in decreased RR and VT and increased water intake.

Night-restricted feeding of dairy cows modifies daily rhythms of feed intake, milk synthesis and plasma metabolites compared with day-restricted feeding.

The timing of feed intake can alter circadian rhythms of peripheral tissues. Milk synthesis displays a daily rhythm across several species, but the effect of feeding time on these rhythms is poorly characterised. The objective of this experiment was to determine if the time of feed intake modifies the daily patterns of milk synthesis, plasma metabolites and body temperature in dairy cows. Sixteen lactating Holstein dairy cows were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment sequences in a cross-over design with 17 d periods. Treatments included day-restricted feeding (DRF; feed available from 07.00 to 23.00 hours) and night-restricted feeding (NRF; feed available from 19.00 to 11.00 hours). Cows were milked every 6 h on the last 7 d of each period, and blood samples were collected to represent every 4 h over the day. Peak milk yield was shifted from morning in DRF to evening in NRF, while milk fat, protein and lactose concentration peaked in the evening in DRF and the morning in NRF. Plasma glucose, insulin, NEFA and urea nitrogen concentration fit daily rhythms in all treatments. Night feeding increased the amplitude of glucose, insulin and NEFA rhythms and shifted the daily rhythms by 8 to 12 h (P < 0·05). Night feeding also phase-delayed the rhythm of core body temperature and DRF increased its amplitude. Altering the time of feed availability shifts the daily rhythms of milk synthesis and plasma hormone and metabolite concentrations and body temperature, suggesting that these rhythms may be entrained by food intake.

Effect of reducing energy intake during the dry period on milk production, udder health, and body condition score of Jersey crossbred cows in the tropical lower Gangetic region.

To find out the effect of reducing energy intake during dry period on milk production, udder health, and body condition, the experiment was conducted on 14 Jersey crossbred cows during whole dry period and continued up to 120days of lactation. Reduction in energy intake was done during far-off period for each dry cow of treatment group as compared to control group. Statistically analyzed data revealed that overall significantly (P < 0.01) lower DMI and WI were recorded in control than treatment group. Overall significantly (P < 0.01) higher total milk production was found in treatment than control group. Overall significantly (P < 0.01) lower milk SCC, MCMT, pH, and EC were found in treatment than control group. Nonsignificant difference in milk fat, SNF, total solid, total protein, and fat:protein ratio was found. Overall significantly (P < 0.01) better quality milk (MBRT) was found in treatment than control groups. BCS during dry period and at calving was significantly (P < 0.01) different between groups. Significantly (P < 0.01) higher plasma NEFA concentration was estimated in control than treatment groups in all stages. No significant difference was found for plasma concentrations of glucose, urea, and total protein. The coefficients of correlation indicated significant (P < 0.01) correlation among BCS, milk production, milk SCC, MCMT, pH, and EC. It can be concluded that reducing energy intake during far-off dry period can lead to achieve optimum BCS at calving. Suitable BCS at calving was beneficial to get higher milk production with improved quality, better maintenance of udder health and body condition of Jersey crossbred cows at tropical lower Gangetic region.

Effects of grazing adaptation on intake, ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites, and body weight change in dairy cows after turning out to pasture in early spring.

This study investigated the effect of adaptation to grazing in early spring on herbage intake, ruminal fermentation parameters, blood metabolite concentrations, and body weight change in dairy cows. The experiment was conducted on eight rumen-cannulated non-lactating cows in the early spring period. Four cows were adapted to grazing by stocking for 4hr for 1week (ADP group). The other cows were kept in a barn during the period (CON group). Then, both groups of cows were stocked together throughout a day on a 1ha pasture for 3weeks (experimental period). In the first week of the experimental period, compared to the CON group, the ADP group had a higher herbage intake, ruminal NH3 -N and total VFA concentration, and blood urea concentration, but the NEFA concentration was lower in the ADP group (p<.01). During the subsequent weeks, there were little differences in ruminal fermentation parameters and blood metabolites. Cows in the ADP group maintained their body weight, but cows in the CON group lost 60kg of body weight in the first week of the experimental period.

Effects of supplementation with combination of polyunsaturated oils in diet of horses in maintenance and during marcha training

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with polyunsaturated oil on lipid and mineral blood biomarkers in two different groups of horses. Was used 6 healthy horses in maintenance (MT-g) and 10 healthy horses in marcha gait training (GT-g). The MT-g and the GT-g received 100mL and 300mL/day/animal of combination of polyunsaturated oils, respectively, during 8 weeks. Blood was collected in pre-test and after 4 and 8 weeks, after overnight fasting and it was measured: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, NEFA, LPS, glycerol, Ca, P, Mg, and Cl. The supplementation produced significant increase in NEFA and reduction in lipase in both groups. In addition, the LPS content in both groups had a large decrease (~35%) from the pre-test to the 8th week of supplementation. In the MT-g, the LDL cholesterol and glycerol increased significantly after 4 weeks but returned to the pre-test levels after 8 weeks, and the triglyceride content decreased (~62%) after 4 weeks. The total cholesterol concentration in the GT-g increased after 4 weeks (~70%), but after 8 weeks it decreased to levels similar to those observed in the pre-test. The mineral biomarkers increased in the MT-g and GT-g, after 8 weeks. In the MT-g and in the GT-g, Ca decreased. In conclusion, supplementation with a combination of polyunsaturated oils increased NEFA concentration and reduced LPS activity in both groups, unlike the concentrations of the other biomarkers that showed different variations between groups, indicating that both NEFA and LPS the changes in their concentrations during supplementation may be more sensitive and more indicated for these types of evaluation. In addition, some blood mineral concentrations reduced significantly in both groups of horses, and thus, they need to be evaluated in horses under chronic oil supplementation

Increasing the proportion of plasma MUFA, as a result of dietary intervention, is associated with a modest improvement in insulin sensitivity.

The effect of modifying dietary fatty acid (FA) composition on insulin sensitivity remains unclear. We aimed to investigate whether changes in plasma phospholipid (PL) FA composition, as a result of dietary intervention, correspond with changes in insulin sensitivity. The RISCK study was a 6-month randomised controlled dietary intervention study, which assessed the effect of modifying dietary fat and the glycaemic index (GI) of carbohydrates on insulin sensitivity. Total NEFA levels, fasting plasma PL FA profiles and an insulin sensitivity index (Si), derived from intravenous glucose tolerance minimal-model analysis, were available from 533 participants, all at elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Bivariate correlations between changes in saturated PL FA (SFA), MUFA (as a percentage of total plasma NEFA) and changes in Si were assessed according to treatment group. Age, sex, ethnicity, percentage change in body mass and change in dietary GI were controlled for. Increasing total NEFA concentration was associated with worsening Si (r -0·152; P = 0·001). In the high-MUFA/low-GI diet group, change in PL-MUFA was positively and independently associated with change in Si (r 0·297; P = 0·002). Among MUFA, change in oleic acid (18 : 1) was most strongly correlated with change in Si (r 0·266; P = 0·005), as was change in minor FA 24 : 1 (r 0·244; P = 0·011) and 17 : 1 (r 0·196; P = 0·042). In the high-SFA/high-GI group, change in SFA concentration was not significantly associated with change in Si. In conclusion, increases in the proportion of plasma PL-MUFA following a high-MUFA dietary intervention were associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity.

Effects of Body Condition Score Changes During Peripartum on the Postpartum Health and Production Performance of Primiparous Dairy Cows.

Simple SummaryThis study systematically describes the effects of body condition score (BCS) changes in primiparous cows during the peripartum period on hormone indexes, health, and production. The BCS and its changes indirectly measure the degree of fat mobilization and is a good predictor of the risk of postpartum disease. In production practice, confounding the management of primiparous and multiparous cow risks neglecting the postpartum characteristics of primiparous cows. A prospective observational study observed that primiparous cows that have a lower BCS have higher non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentrations and more dramatic hormonal changes. Prepartum BCS changes were inconsistent and small, while after calving, there was a drastic decline in the BCS, suggesting that even a slight drop in the prepartum BCS may be a warning of a postpartum risk for primiparous cows. It is suggested that operators attach importance to the primiparous cow prepartum BCS and keep it stable through prepartum management adjustments, since an ideal BCS at calving reduces the incidence of postpartum disease.This is a prospective observational study that evaluates the effects of body condition score (BCS) changes in primiparous Holstein cows during peripartum on their NEFA and BHBA concentrations, hormone levels, postpartum health, and production performance. The cows under study (n = 213) were assessed to determine their BCS (5-point scale; 0.25-point increment) once a week during the whole peripartum by the same researchers; backfat was used for corrections. Blood samples were collected 21 and 7 days before calving and 7, 21, and 35 days after calving, and were assayed for NEFA, BHBA, growth hormone (GH), insulin, leptin, and adiponectin concentrations. The incidence of disease and milk yield were recorded until 84 days after calving. Cows were classified according to their BCS changes during peripartum as follows: Those that gained BCS (G; ΔBCS ≥ 0.25), maintained BCS (M; ΔBCS = 0–0.25), or lost BCS (L; ΔBCS ≥ 0.5). The BCS at −21 days and at 7, 14, and 21 days were different (p < 0.01), but trended toward uniformity in all groups at calving. The L group had higher NEFA and BHBA concentrations and hormone levels (p < 0.01) than the M and G groups at 21 and 35 days after calving, and had a higher incidence of uterine and metabolic diseases; however, there were no differences in production performance between the various groups. In conclusion, a lower BCS in primiparous cows during peripartum influences the NEFA and BHBA concentrations, hormone levels, and occurrence of health problems postpartum. The postpartum effects of BCS changes appear prior to calving.

Metabolismo intermediario basal y postprandial en obesos de altura y de nivel del mar

Objetivos: Estudiar el metabolismo intermediario basal y postprandial en obesos de altura (OA), y compararlo con personas con peso normal de altura (NA) y con obesos de nivel del mar (ONM) Material y métodos: Se incluyó a 30 NA-, 39 obesos de altura OA (Cusco, 3,395 msnm.) y a 35 obesos de nivel del mar ONM (Lima, 150 msnm), de ambos géneros, de 40 a 70 años de edad. En ayunas se midió glucosa (G), triglicéridos (Tg), colesterol total (CT), HDL, insulina (I), ácidos grasos no esterificados (AGNE), el colesterol VLDL, LDL, NoHDL y coeficiente HOMA fueron calculados y luego durante 6 horas después de un desayuno mixto estándar se determinó G, I, Tg y AGNE. Resultados: En condiciones basales los OA presentaron HDL más bajo y Tg y AGNE más altos que los NA y AGNE más altos que los ONM. Durante el período postprandial, los OA tuvieron valores más altos de I, Tg y NEFA que los NA y concentraciones más altas de Tg y AGNE que los ONM con mínimas diferencias en la G e I. Conclusiones: Los obesos de altura presentan resistencia a la insulina en comparación a los normales de altura y valores más altos de triglicéridos y ´NEFA que los obesos de nivel del mar.

PSIV-B-26 Late-Breaking: Polyunsaturated fatty acids and methionine supplementation during late gestation alters fetal liver development in sheep

Abstract Supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids or methionine have a fetal programming effect in mammals. However, the effect of both nutrients on fetal development and DNA methylation have not been explored. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), methionine, or both to ewes during late gestation on fetus development and liver global DNA methylation. Twenty ewes (n = 5) were supplemented from day 100 to 145 of gestation. The treatments were: 1) control diet (CONT) without EPA and DHA supplementation (PUFA) or methionine supplementation (MET); 2) control plus PUFA (1 % Ca salts of fatty acids intake, Strata G113®); 3) control plus MET (0.1 % rumen protected methionine intake, Smartamine®); and 4) control plus PUFA and MET (PUFA+MET). On day 145, ewes were euthanized and fetuses were removed. Ewe, fetus, placenta, and fetal liver were weighed. Plasma samples were collected from ewes and fetuses to measure concentration of glucose and NEFA. Liver global DNA methylation was analyzed. Data was analyzed as a complete randomized experiment with a 2x2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Ewe supplementation did not affect (P &amp;gt; 0.1) fetus and placental weight. There was an interaction of treatment effect (P = 0.02) on fetal liver weight and ewe BW; CONT and PUFA+MET were grater that PUFA and MET. There were no differences (P &amp;gt; 0.10) on ewe and fetus NEFA as well as fetus glucose, but MET increased (P = 0.03) ewe plasma glucose concentration. Both treatments affected liver global DNA methylation of fetus (main effects P &amp;lt; 0.01; interaction P = 0.32); all the treatments increased global DNA methylation compared, with CONT, and PUFA+MET has greater than PUFA and MET. In conclusion PUFA and methionine supplementation in late gestation modified fetus liver development and DNA methylation.

PSVI-30 OmniGen-AF alters metabolic profile and blood cell populations in beef heifers subjected to repeated LPS challenges

Abstract Studies in cattle fed OmniGen-AF (OG, Phibro Animal Health, Teaneck, NJ) show OG modulates innate immunity and blood metabolites after 45 to 60 d of feeding. Recently, a shorter interval between measured changes in immune signaling following the onset of OG feeding have been measured. However, this work has been limited to cellular signals in healthy, unchallenged beef heifers. This study aimed to investigate immune and metabolic responses in beef heifers challenged with LPS after 28 and 56 d of feeding OG. Angus heifers were randomly assigned based on BW to one of two dietary treatments: TMR top dressed with OG (OG, 4g/45.36 kg BW, n = 7) or placebo (CON, 4g/45.36 kg BW, n = 7). After 28 and 56 d of feeding, heifers were administered an IV LPS bolus (0.125 µg/kg BW). Complete blood counts and serum metabolites were analyzed relative to LPS bolus (hour). Data was analyzed using the PROC Mixed procedure of SAS with hour, treatment, and the interaction evaluated as fixed effects. After 28 days of feeding, heifers fed OG had lower lymphocyte counts (P = 0.03) and a tendency to have higher monocyte counts (P = 0.07) relative to CON. Heifers fed OG also tended to have lower NEFA concentrations in the first LPS challenge (P &amp;lt; 0.10). Insulin concentrations tended to be lower in OG heifers during both LPS challenges (P ≤ 0.06). During the second LPS challenge, eosinophil counts were lower in OG fed heifers (P = 0.04), while lymphocyte counts were decreased in OG heifers over time (treatment x time P = 0.02) post LPS. Feeding OG altered blood cell populations and metabolism in LPS challenged beef heifers after 28 and 56 days of feeding. These data suggest beef heifers fed OG may be better suited to cope with immunological challenges at earlier feeding durations than previously reported.

Energy restriction in obese women suggest linear reduction of hepatic fat content and time-dependent metabolic improvements

Energy restriction reduces liver fat, improves hepatic insulin resistance and lipid metabolism. However, temporal data in which these metabolic improvements occur and their interplay is incomplete. By performing repeated MRI scans and blood analysis at day 0, 3, 7, 14 and 28 the temporal changes in liver fat and related metabolic factors were assessed at five times during a low-calorie diet (LCD, 800–1100 kcal/day) in ten obese non-diabetic women (BMI 41.7 ± 2.6 kg/m2) whereof 6 had NAFLD. Mean weight loss was 7.4 ± 1.2 kg (0.7 kg/day) and liver fat decreased by 51 ± 16%, resulting in only three subjects having NAFLD at day 28. Marked alteration of insulin, NEFA, ALT and 3-hydroxybuturate was evident 3 days after commencing LCD, whereas liver fat showed a moderate but a linear reduction across the 28 days. Other circulating-liver fat markers (e.g. triglycerides, adiponectin, stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 index, fibroblast growth factor 21) demonstrated modest and variable changes. Marked elevations of NEFA, 3-hydroxybuturate and ALT concentrations occurred until day 14, likely reflecting increased tissue lipolysis, fat oxidation and upregulated hepatic fatty acid oxidation. In summary, these results suggest linear reduction in liver fat, time-specific changes in metabolic markers and insulin resistance in response to energy restriction.

Correction the blood biochemical parameters in transition dairy cows by hop cones and vitamin E supplement

In the prevention and treatment of cow ketosis, the regulation of glucose and fatty acids is the main focus, while ammonia intoxication is largely ignored. The intensity of formation of the rumen ammonia can be reduced by ionophore antibiotic monensin. Hop cones contain a number of biologically active components including phytoionoрhores: prenylated polyphenols lupulon, humulon and their derivatives. Therefore, hop cones can be considered as a potential substitute for antibiotics-ionophores. Vitamin E, fed to ruminants in large quantities, stimulates the cellulosolytic bacteria of the rumen. Accordingly, co-feeding cows with hops and vitamin E supplements can reduce ammonia formation without inhibition the carbohydrate fermentation in the rumen. The experiment used two groups of dry Ukrainian dairy black-and-white breed cows with productivity 6–7 thousand kg of milk for previous lactation, 10 animals per each group. The trial was performed during the last 3 weeks of dry period and the first 3 weeks after calving. Animals were fed a standard balanced diet containing: grass silage, corn silage, barley grain, corn grain, soybean meal, molasses, salt, mineral and vitamin premix. The first group was the control. The diet of second group was supplemented with 300 mg of α-tocopherol acetate (0.6 g of Rovimix E-50) and 1g of dry hop cones per kg of DM. Prior to calving, the tested feed additive reduced the concentration of lipid peroxidation products (P &lt; 0.05) in the blood plasma without affection other parameters. More significant changes were detected after calving. An increase in glucose concentration (P &lt; 0.05), triacylglycerol (P &lt; 0.05), cholesterol esters (P &lt; 0.05) and a decrease in the concentration of NEFA (P &lt; 0.05) were found in the blood of cows of the experimental group in a week after parturition. One month after calving, differences between control and experimental blood plasma parameters were significantly less pronounced. Therefore, addition of 300 mg of α-tocopherol acetate and 1 g/kg of dry hop cones per kg of dry matter of the diet during the transition period stimulates liver glucose synthesis and reduces the rate of fatty acid release from adipose tissue. The specified feed additive can be used to prevent metabolic disorders in early-lactation dairy cows.

Circulating palmitoleic acid is an independent determinant of insulin sensitivity, beta cell function and glucose tolerance in non-diabetic individuals: a longitudinal analysis.

Experimental studies suggest that the fatty acid palmitoleate may act as an adipocyte-derived lipid hormone (or 'lipokine') to regulate systemic metabolism. We investigated the relationship of circulating palmitoleate with insulin sensitivity, beta cell function and glucose tolerance in humans. Plasma NEFA concentration and composition were determined in non-diabetic individuals from the Relationship between Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular disease (RISC) study cohort at baseline (n = 1234) and after a 3 year follow-up (n = 924). Glucose tolerance, insulin secretion and beta cell function were assessed during an OGTT. Whole-body insulin sensitivity was measured by a hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp (M/I) and OGTT (oral glucose insulin sensitivity index [OGIS]). The liver insulin resistance index was calculated using clinical and biochemical data. Body composition including fat mass was determined by bioelectrical impedance. Circulating palmitoleate was proportional to fat mass (r = 0.21, p < 0.0001) and total NEFA levels (r = 0.19, p < 0.0001). It correlated with whole-body insulin sensitivity (M/I: standardised regression coefficient [std. β] = 0.16, p < 0.0001), liver insulin resistance (std. β = -0.14, p < 0.0001), beta cell function (potentiation: std. β = 0.08, p = 0.045) and glucose tolerance (2 h glucose: std. β = -0.24, p < 0.0001) after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, adiposity and other NEFA. High palmitoleate concentrations prevented the decrease in insulin sensitivity associated with excess palmitate (p = 0.0001). In a longitudinal analysis, a positive independent relationship was observed between changes in palmitoleate and insulin sensitivity over time (std. β = 0.07, p = 0.04). We demonstrated that plasma palmitoleate is an independent determinant of insulin sensitivity, beta cell function and glucose tolerance in non-diabetic individuals. These results support the role of palmitoleate as a beneficial lipokine released by adipose tissue to prevent the negative effects of adiposity and excess NEFA on systemic glucose metabolism.

Steroidogenic, Metabolic, and Immunological Markers in Dairy Cows Diagnosed With Cystic Ovarian Follicles at Early and Mid-Late Lactation.

The etiology of cystic ovarian follicles (COF) remains a conundrum with steroidogenic, immunological, and metabolic dysfunctions linked to its development. Studies suggest that COF development may occur as a result of disruption of the insulin signaling pathway and the severity of a negative energy balance in dairy cows, but mid to late lactation cows diagnosed with COF are unlikely to have issues with energy metabolism. Herein, we characterized the mRNA expression of steroidogenic (LHCGR, StAR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD, CYP19A), immunological (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TLR-4, TNF), and metabolic markers (IGF-1, IRS1) in follicular fluid; and plasma and follicular fluid levels of E2, IL-1β, glucose, and NEFA in early and mid-late lactation COF cows. Lactating dairy cows were diagnosed as having COF (n = 11, follicle >20 mm persistent for 7 days, absence of corpus luteum, and flaccid uterus) while 11 herdmates cycling with a dominant follicle were classified as the control cows. Cows diagnosed with COF were classified as early lactation (COF-E, n = 5) cows, <35 days in milk (DIM); or mid-late lactation (COF-M/L, n = 6), ≥118 DIM cows. Results revealed that mRNA expression StAR was greater (P < 0.01) in COF-E cows than COF-M/L cows and the control cows. The mRNA expression CYP19A1 was lower (P < 0.01) in COF-E cows and COF-M/L cows than in the control cows. The mRNA expression IL-6 and IRS-1 tended to be greater and lower, respectively, in COF-M/L cows compared to the control cows. The mRNA expression IGF-1 was greater (P < 0.01) in COF-E and COF-M/L cows than in the control cows. The plasma and follicular fluid concentration of NEFA was greater (P < 0.05) in COF-E cows than in COF-M/L and the control cows. Cows with COF-E had disturbances in steroidogenic and metabolic markers, while cows with COF-M/L had steroidogenic, immunological, and metabolic dysregulations, suggesting that COF pathogenesis may vary between early and mid-late lactation dairy cows.

Effect of environmental enrichment with wood materials and straw pellets on the metabolic status of sows during gestation

Environmental enrichment is a recognized strategy to improve sow welfare. Providing manipulable wood materials and straw pellets to sows during gestation might participate in satisfying their investigative behavior. Sows may also get a benefit from chewing and eating fibers, which can decrease their hunger. Such strategy, however, should not adversely affect metabolic status of sows and newborn piglets. In this study, gestating sows were group-housed in a conventional system on slatted floor (C, n = 26) or in the same system enriched with pieces of oak attached to a chain and straw pellets (CE, n = 30). Straw pellets were provided in the trough at a rate of 200 g/d from 3 to 30 days of gestation (DG) and 400 g/d from 31 to 104 DG. On DG105, sows were transferred into farrowing pens and housed in identical individual stalls on slatted floor. Sow body weight and backfat thickness were recorded before insemination, on DG105 and at weaning. Plasma concentrations of metabolites and insulin were measured in sows on DG73 and DG102. Blood was also collected from a subset of piglets at birth (n = 6 per litter in 5 C and 8 CE litters) to determine their metabolic and oxidative status. Sow body weight, backfat thickness, and estimated body lipid and protein masses did not differ between treatments during gestation and lactation. Maternal plasma concentrations of glucose, lactate, NEFA, beta‑hydroxy‑butyrate and insulin did not differ between groups (P > 0.10). However, CE sows had lower circulating concentrations of urea (P < 0.001) and a greater increase in triglyceride concentrations between DG73 and DG102 (P < 0.05). Treatment did not influence (P > 0.10) piglet birth weight or plasma concentrations of glucose, fructose, lactate and albumin, antioxidant potential and the oxidative stress index in newborns. On the day after farrowing, the milk produced by CE sows contained more minerals (P < 0.01) than the milk of C sows but similar contents of protein, fat, lactose, energy and IgA. The proportion of piglets that died at birth and within 12 h of birth was lower in CE than in C litters (P < 0.05), but overall mortality (stillbirth + preweaning death) did not differ between the two groups. To conclude, providing manipulable materials and straw pellets to sows during gestation had little impact on sow metabolic status but improved early neonatal survival.

Niacin nutrition and rumen-protected niacin supplementation in dairy cows: an updated review.

As the precursor to NAD+ and NADP+, niacin is important for catabolic and anabolic redox reactions. In addition, niacin is known for its anti-lipolytic action via a hydroxycarboxylic acid-2-receptor-dependent mechanism. The anti-lipolytic effects of traditional free niacin supplementation during transition periods had been studied extensively, but the reported effects are ambiguous. In the past decade, a series of studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of rumen-protected niacin (RPN) on production performance and metabolic status in early lactation and on heat stress in dairy cows. Feeding RPN seems more effective than free niacin regarding increasing circulating niacin concentration. The rebound of plasma NEFA was found after termination of niacin abomasal infusion. Feeding RPN or infusion of niacin via the abomasum could suppress lipolysis and reduce insulin resistance in early lactation. Additionally, RPN supplementation could possibly relieve heat stress through vasodilation during moderate to severe heat stress condition. However, these beneficial effects of niacin supplementation have not always been observed. The inconsistent results across studies may be related to dosages of niacin supplementation, rebound of plasma NEFA concentration, stage of lactation or severity of heat stress. Overall, the current review is to present updated information on niacin nutrition in dairy cows and the recommendations are given for future research.