Higher Body Condition Score Research Articles

Nesfatin-1 expression and blood plasma concentration in female dogs suffering from cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra and its possible interaction with phoenixin-14

BackgroundNesfatin-1 is a neuropeptide that regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and may play a role in uterus function. It is co-expressed with other peptides, such as phoenixin, which can influence sex hormone secretion. Our previous research has confirmed that phoenixin-14 is involved in the development of cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra in dogs. Therefore, based on the similarities and interactions between these neuropeptides, we hypothesized that nesfatin-1 might also regulate the reproductive system in dogs. This study aimed to determine the expression of nesfatin-1 and its interaction with phoenixin-14 in dogs with CEH or pyometra compared to healthy females, and concerning animals’ body condition score (BCS 4–5/9 vs. BCS > 5/9).ResultsThe analysis of nesfatin-1 in the uterus of bitches consisted of qPCR, western blot and immunofluorescence assays, and ELISAs. The results showed significantly higher nesfatin-1 encoding gene, nucleobindin-2 mRNA (Nucb2) and nesfatin-1 protein expression in overweight females and those suffering from CEH or pyometra compared to healthy animals. The immunoreactivity of nesfatin-1 was elevated in the uteri of bitches with higher BCS > 5/9. Moreover, nesfatin-1 blood concentrations increased in all examined overweight bitches. In the case of phoenixin signals, we found opposite results, regardless of the female body condition score.ConclusionThe etiology of CEH and pyometra are not fully known, although we have expanded the level of knowledge with respect to the possible interaction of nesfatin-1 and phoenixin in female dogs’ uteri. They interact oppositely. With increasing female body weight, the expression of nesfatin-1 in the uterus and its peripheral blood concentration increased. However, for female dogs affected by CEH and pyometra, a decreased level of phoenixin-14, irrespective of their body condition score is characteristic. This knowledge could be crucial in the development of biomarkers for these conditions, which may lead to earlier recognition.

Optimising Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination in Lohi Sheep: Effects of Timing, Sperm Concentration and Body Condition on Fertility Outcome in Subtropical Climates.

The objective of this study was to determine the optimal timing, sperm concentration, and body condition score (BCS) for laparoscopic artificial insemination (LAI) in the subtropical Lohi sheep breed. In Experiment 1, Lohi ewes (n = 80) were synchronised through progestin-sponges (day 0-day 11), administering PGF2α (d-cloprostenol 75 μg/mL; i.m. @ 75 μg /ewe) on day 09 and eCG (i.m. @ 300 IU/ewe) on day 11. Ewes were divided equally into four groups (n = 20 each) and then LAI was performed at 48 (T48), 60 (T60), 72 (T72) and 96 (T96) hours post-sponge removal using 200 million sperm/insemination. In Experiment 2, ewes (n = 81) were synchronised as in Experiment I. Following synchronisation ewes were divided into four groups, each subjected to LAI employing varying sperm concentrations: 10 (S10; n = 21), 20 (S20; n = 20), 50 (S50; n = 20), or 100 (S100; n = 20) million per insemination. Inseminations were performed within a time window of 48-60 h post-sponge removal, based on the findings from Experiment 1. In both experiments ewes were categorised according to BCS, that is, medium 3 and high > 3. Results of Experiment 1 revealed a quadratic response that ewes inseminated at 60-h post-sponge removal exhibited significantly higher pregnancy and twinning rates (p = 0.02). The results of Experiment 2 revealed that sperm concentration had a quadratic effect, 50 million sperm per insemination resulted in maximal pregnancy rates (p = 0.01). Additionally, ewes with medium BCS (≤ 3) had higher pregnancy rates than high BCS (> 3) ewes. In conclusion, ewes with medium BCS (≤ 3) are ideal candidate for LAI and can be inseminated at 60 h with minimal sperm 50 × 106/dose post-sponge removal to achieve a maximum pregnancy rate.

Association between body condition score and abdominal fat assessed by ultrasound in Jersey cows.

Body condition score (BCS) is a subjective tool and the deposition of subcutaneous fat differs from the deposition of abdominal fat. The aim of this study was to evaluate by multivariate regression models and ultrasonography the amount of fat accumulated in different areas of the abdominal cavity in Jersey non-pregnant non-lactating cows and its association with their BCS. From a commercial farm, 21 non-pregnant non-lactating Jersey cows were selected at random. Cows were placed in a headlock line, and BCS was evaluated (scale 1-5 with a 0.25 unit increment) by the same assessor. Ultrasonographic evaluation was performed using a Sonosite machine in duplicate, considering key anatomical points of the body to predict total abdominal fat (AT), retroperitoneal fat (RT), omental fat (OT) and mesenteric fat (MT). A regression analysis for each abdominal fat depot and the BCS was run using SAS. Models from the lowest to the largest r2 are reported. The r2 for the models were MT r2=0.023; RT r2=0.1047; OT r2=0.323 and AT r2=0.369. Correlation between BCS and abdominal fat depots was positive, lower for mesenteric and retroperitoneal fat, but higher for omental and total abdominal fat. Cows were divided on the basis of the median of BCS distribution to high (≥3.5) and low (≤3.25). Those with high BCS had significantly larger amounts of fat in different anatomical areas of abdominal cavity than cows with low BCS. BCS has a low-to-moderate association with abdominal fat depots, but a high variability exists within each BCS punctuation, which supports the notion that fat accumulation patterns and metabolic turnover between abdominal and subcutaneous fat differ from each other.

A retrospective study of tracheal collapse in small-breed dogs: 110 cases (2022-2024).

The grade of tracheal collapse (TC) is assessed by the diameter of the narrowed lumen. However, studies on the relationship between TC grade and clinical symptom severity are lacking. To investigate the clinical characteristics of small-breed dogs diagnosed with TC and determine if fluoroscopic grading correlates with cough severity. We retrospectively reviewed medical records from 2022 to 2024. TC diagnosis was confirmed using fluoroscopic examination. Multiple linear regression was employed to investigate factors influencing cough severity, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. A total of 132 dogs with TC were identified, of which 22 were excluded. The final cohort consisted of 110 dogs, aged between 2-19 years, with no significant sex differences. The majority (97.2%) of dogs had a BCS of ≥4. Among the top four breeds (Maltese, Pomeranian, Poodle, and Chihuahua), the most severe collapse was observed in the carinal region. The grade of collapse on fluoroscopy was mostly related to high BCS (p < 0.007) and low body weight (p < 0.001). However, interestingly, fluoroscopic findings of collapse location and grade did not correlate with cough severity (p = 0.350). Notably, clinical symptoms improved in 86.6% of cases following interventions such as weight reduction, environmental changes, and pharmacotherapy. In small-breed dogs, the severity of cough was not associated with the region or grade of TC diagnosed by fluoroscopy.

Effects of dam metabolic profile and seasonality (Spring vs. Winter) on their offspring' metabolism, health, and immunity: maternal factors in dairy calves' analytes.

Maternal status during the transition period can significantly impact the health and performance of Holstein dairy calves, with lasting effects on various variables. However, the relationship between maternal late gestation metabolic status, seasonality, and their impact on offspring remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the influence of maternal variables at calving on the performance, metabolism, and immunity of 28 dairy calves during their first month of life. Blood samples were collected from 28 Holstein cows at calving. Median results for maternal variables including non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucose, total protein (TP), albumin, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), haptoglobin (Hp), body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS) were determined. These median values served as a basis for categorizing the offspring into two groups based on their dams' high or low degree of each maternal variable. Additionally, calves were categorized by the season of birth (Spring vs. Winter), with 14 in each. Blood samples were collected from the calves at birth and on days 1, 7, 14, and 28 to assess IgG, biochemical parameters, and haptoglobin concentration. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by polymorphonuclear cells stimulated by various agents was also evaluated. Clinical assessments were conducted for diarrhea and bovine respiratory disease frequencies. Despite the overall health of the cows, differences were observed in the calves between maternal groups. Heavier cows with high maternal BCS tended to have larger offspring, while high maternal BCS was associated with increased diarrhea prevalence. Low maternal BCS resulted in a stronger innate immune response, indicated by higher ROS production. Calves from cows experiencing metabolic changes during calving displayed elevated Hp concentrations. Spring-born calves were larger but had lower serum IgG concentration and reduced innate immune response compared to winter-born calves. Additionally, spring-born calves exhibited higher Hp and increased diarrhea prevalence on day 28. These findings underscore the importance of the prenatal period in determining neonatal health and suggest further research to elucidate the long-term clinical implications of maternal effects on offspring health and growth. Investigating offspring constituents later in life can provide insight into the persistence of maternal effects over time.

Analysis of differences in the rumen microbiome and metabolic function in prepartum dairy cows with different body condition scores

BackgroundThe rumen is a crucial digestive organ for dairy cows. The rumen microbiota assists in the digestion of plant feed through microbe-mediated fermentation, during which the plant feed is transformed into nutrients for the cow's use. Variations in the composition and function of the rumen microbiome affect the energy utilization efficiency of dairy cows, which is one of the reasons for the varying body condition scores (BCSs). This study focused on prepartum Holstein dairy cows to analyze differences in rumen microbiota and metabolites among cows with different BCSs. Twelve prepartum dairy cows were divided into two groups, low BCS (LBCS, BCS = 2.75, n = 6) and high BCS (HBCS, BCS = 3.5, n = 6), to explore differences in microbial composition and metabolites.ResultsIn the HBCS group, the genera within the phylum Firmicutes exhibited stronger correlations and greater abundances. Phyla such as Firmicutes, Patescibacteria, Acidobacteriota, Euryarchaeota, and Desulfobacterota, in addition to most of their constituent microbial groups, were significantly more abundant in the HBCS group than in the LBCS group. At the genus level, the abundances of Anaerovibrio, Veillonellaceae_UCG_001, Ruminococcus_gauvreauii_group, Blautia, Eubacterium, Prevotellaceae_YAB2003_group, Schwartzia, and Halomonas significantly increased in the HBCS group. The citrate cycle, involved in carbohydrate metabolism, exhibited a significant enrichment trend, with a notable increase in the abundance of its key substrate, citrate, in the HBCS group. This increase was significantly positively correlated with the differential bacterial genera.ConclusionIn this study, prepartum dairy cows with higher BCS exhibited greater abundance of Firmicutes. This study provides theoretical support for microbiological research on dairy cows with different BCSs and suggests that regulating the rumen microbiome could help maintain prepartum dairy cows within an optimal BCS range.

A preliminary study on the feasibility of two different cow-calf contact systems in a pasture-based, seasonal calving dairy system: effects on cow production and health

Internationally, consumer dissatisfaction with cow-calf separation at birth has led to increased interest in alternative calf−rearing methods, specifically cow-calf contact (CCC) systems. The objectives of this preliminary study were to estimate whether CCC could be incorporated into an Irish spring-calving, pasture-based system, and to investigate the effects on cow milk production and health. Three systems were compared: the conventional Irish system (CONV;18 cows), cow and calf were separated < 1 h postbirth, cows were pasture-based and milked twice-a-day; a full-time access system (FT;14 cows), cow and calf were allowed constant, unrestricted access, were pasture-based, and cows were milked twice-a-day; and a part-time access system (PT;18 cows), cow and calf had unrestricted access when indoors at night, cows grazed outdoors by day while calves remained indoors, and cows were milked once-a-day in the morning. Cows were blocked and balanced across the three systems by previous lactation machine milk yield (MMY), BW, and body condition score (BCS). Following an 8-week CCC period, all calves were weaned (FT and PT underwent a 7-d gradual weaning and separation process) and all cows were milked twice-a-day. Cow MMY was recorded daily and milk composition was recorded weekly; milk data were analysed from weeks 1 to 8 (CCC period), weeks 9 to 35 (post-CCC period), and weeks 1 to 35 (cumulative lactation). Cow BW and BCS were taken weekly for weeks 1–12, and at the end of the lactation. During the CCC period, all systems differed (P < 0.001) in MMY (mean ± SEM; 24.0, 13.6, and 10.3 ± 0.50 kg/d for CONV, FT, and PT cows, respectively). After the CCC period, CONV MMY (20.2 ± 0.48 kg/d) remained higher (P < 0.001) than the FT (16.6 kg/d) and PT cows (15.7 kg/d). The FT and PT cows yielded 24 and 31% less in cumulative lactation MMY and 26 and 35% less in cumulative lactation milk solids yield, respectively, compared to CONV (5 072 ± 97.0 kg and 450 ± 8.7 kg). During the CCC period, somatic cell score was higher (P = 0.030) in PT cows (5.15 ± 0.118) compared to FT cows (4.70 ± 0.118), while CONV (4.94 ± 0.118) were inconclusive to both. The PT cows (523 ± 4.9 and 520 ± 6.8 kg) were heavier than the CONV (474 ± 4.9 and 479 ± 6.8 kg) and FT (488 ± 4.9 and 487 ± 6.8 kg) cows at week 4 and week 8 (both P < 0.001). The PT cows had higher BCS than CONV and FT at all observed times. This preliminary research suggests that although CCC was incorporated without impacting cow health, the two CCC systems investigated negatively affected cow production.

Bile acid profiles and messenger RNA expression of bile acid-related genes in the liver of dairy cows with high versus normal body condition

Bile acids (BA) play a crucial role not only in lipid digestion but also in the regulation of overall energy homeostasis, including glucose and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate BA profiles and mRNA expression of BA-related genes in the liver of high versus normal body condition in dairy cows. We hypothesized that body condition and the transition from gestation to lactation affect hepatic BA concentrations as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related receptors, regulatory enzymes, and transporters. Therefore, we analyzed BA in the liver as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related synthesizing enzymes, transporters, and receptors in the liver during the transition period in cows with different body conditions around calving. In a previously established animal model, 38 German Holstein cows were divided into groups with high body condition score (BCS) (HBCS; n = 19) or normal BCS (NBCS; n = 19) based on BCS and backfat thickness (BFT). Cows were fed diets aimed at achieving the targeted differences in BCS and BFT (NBCS: BCS <3.5, BFT <1.2 cm; HBCS: BCS >3.75, BFT >1.4 cm) until they were dried off at wk 7 before parturition. Both groups were fed identical diets during the dry period and subsequent lactation. Liver biopsies were taken at wk -7, 1, 3, and 12 relative to parturition. For BA measurement, a targeted metabolomics approach with LC-ESI-MS/MS was used to analyze BA in the liver. The mRNA abundance of targeted genes related to BA-synthesizing enzymes, transporters, and receptors in the liver was analyzed using microfluidic quantitative PCR. In total, we could detect 14 BA in the liver: 6 primary and 8 secondary BA, with glycocholic acid (GCA) being the most abundant one. The increase of glycine-conjugated BA after parturition, in parallel to increasing serum glycine concentrations may originate from an enhanced mobilization of muscle protein to meet the high nutritional requirements in early lactating cows. Higher DMI in NBCS cows compared with HBCS cows was associated with higher liver BA concentrations such as GCA, deoxycholic acid (DCA), and cholic acid (CA). The mRNA abundance of BA-related enzymes measured herein suggests the dominance of the alternative signaling pathway in the liver of HBCS cows. Overall, BA profiles and BA metabolism in the liver depend on both, the body condition and lactation-induced effects in periparturient dairy cows.

Genetic parameters for novel climatic resilience indicators derived from automatically-recorded vaginal temperature in lactating sows under heat stress conditions

BackgroundLongitudinal records of automatically-recorded vaginal temperature (TV) could be a key source of data for deriving novel indicators of climatic resilience (CR) for breeding more resilient pigs, especially during lactation when sows are at an increased risk of suffering from heat stress (HS). Therefore, we derived 15 CR indicators based on the variability in TV in lactating sows and estimated their genetic parameters. We also investigated their genetic relationship with sows’ key reproductive traits.ResultsThe heritability estimates of the CR traits ranged from 0.000 ± 0.000 for slope for decreased rate of TV (SlopeDe) to 0.291 ± 0.047 for sum of TV values below the HS threshold (HSUB). Moderate to high genetic correlations (from 0.508 ± 0.056 to 0.998 ± 0.137) and Spearman rank correlations (from 0.431 to 1.000) between genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) were observed for five CR indicators, i.e. HS duration (HSD), the normalized median multiplied by normalized variance (Nor_medvar), the highest TV value of each measurement day for each individual (MaxTv), and the sum of the TV values above (HSUA) and below (HSUB) the HS threshold. These five CR indicators were lowly to moderately genetically correlated with shoulder skin surface temperature (from 0.139 ± 0.008 to 0.478 ± 0.048) and respiration rate (from 0.079 ± 0.011 to 0.502 ± 0.098). The genetic correlations between these five selected CR indicators and sow reproductive performance traits ranged from − 0.733 to − 0.175 for total number of piglets born alive, from − 0.733 to − 0.175 for total number of piglets born, and from − 0.434 to − 0.169 for number of pigs weaned. The individuals with the highest GEBV (most climate-sensitive) had higher mean skin surface temperature, respiration rate (RR), panting score (PS), and hair density, but had lower mean body condition scores compared to those with the lowest GEBV (most climate-resilient).ConclusionsMost of the CR indicators evaluated are heritable with substantial additive genetic variance. Five of them, i.e. HSD, MaxTv, HSUA, HSUB, and Nor_medvar share similar underlying genetic mechanisms. In addition, individuals with higher CR indicators are more likely to exhibit better HS-related physiological responses, higher body condition scores, and improved reproductive performance under hot conditions. These findings highlight the potential benefits of genetically selecting more heat-tolerant individuals based on CR indicators.

Skeletal malformation in growing milk sheep.

Two six-month old female Lacaune lambs with severe skeletal malformations of both front limbs were presented to the Department of Farm Animals, University of Zurich. The clinical examination showed alert animals with a high body weight and body condition score as well as a valgus deformation without pain or swelling. Radiographic examination showed severe irregularities in the epiphysial plate of the metacarpal bones in both lambs. Delayed growth in the lateral aspects of the physis was evident and resulted in valgus deformation. Nutritional causes were considered as the main reason for this presentation and a nutritional consultation was performed by the Institute of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Zurich. The estimated energy intake of these lambs was 65 % higher than the recommended maximum for growing sheep and the estimated vitamin D content of the diet was 71 % below the recommended allowance. Both animals were euthanized, and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) was performed postmortem to measure total bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone mineral density (tBMD) and cortical bone mineral density (cBMD) of the left and right metatarsal bone of both animals. The BMD and the tBMD at 10 % of bone length were below the reference values and the BMD at 50 % was above the reference values. In addition, postmortem examination revealed a Salter-Harris-Typ-1 facture in the right caput humeri of one lamb. Histological evaluation showed defects in the articular cartilage with an eburnation in the metacarpal region and a disrupted area of columnar cartilage. This case report supports the fact that a high dietary energy intake leads to damage to the cartilage and the epiphyseal zone in sheep. In addition, insufficient dietary vitamin D intake contributed to the incomplete bone mineralization, as well as delayed growth and skeletal malformation.

Effect of Body Condition Score at Calving on Reproductive Performance in Nili Ravi Buffaloes

The current study aimed to investigate the effect of body condition score (BCS) at calving on post-calving reproductive performance in Nili Ravi buffaloes. The study was conducted at the Livestock Experiment Station, Hasalpur, Pakistan. Thirty-six buffaloes were selected approximately 40 days before the expected date of calving and randomly divided into three study groups (12 buffaloes/group) based on their BCS. The BCS was assigned on a scale of 1–5 with 0.25 increment and the BCS groups were categorized as; 1) low, buffaloes with BCS ≤ 3.0; 2) medium, buffaloes with BCS 3.25 to 3.5; and 3) high, buffaloes with BCS ≥ 3.75. The feeding allowance was given according to the requirements of individual animals to maintain their BCS till calving. Post-calving feeding was done according to their production level. The enrolled buffaloes were followed till 300 d of lactation. The results revealed that the body condition score (BCS) at calving significantly influenced reproductive performance in buffaloes. Buffaloes in the medium BCS group had 101 fewer days to first estrus, 1.5 fewer services per conception, and 87 fewer days open compared to the low BCS group (p &lt; 0.05). However, the performance of the medium BCS group was only numerically better compared to the high BCS group for these reproductive measures (p &gt; 0.05). The results suggested better reproductive performance in buffaloes with a medium BCS at calving (3.25-3.5) compared to those with low and high BCS.

Effect on prime animal beef merit from breeding solely for lighter dairy cows

As the proportion of prime carcasses originating from dairy herds increases, the focus is shifting to the beef merit of the progeny from dairy herds. Several dairy cow total merit indexes include a negative weight on measures of cow size. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the effect of genetic selection, solely for lighter or smaller-sized dairy cows, on the beef performance of their progeny. Therefore, the objective of this study was to quantify the genetic correlations among cow size traits (i.e., cow BW, cow carcass weight [CW]), cow BCS, cow carcass conformation (CC), and cow carcass fat cover (CF), as well as the correlations between these cow traits and a series of beef performance slaughter-related traits (i.e., CW, CC, CF, and age at slaughter [AS]) in their progeny. After data editing, there were 52,950 cow BW and BCS records, along with 57,509 cow carcass traits (i.e., CW, CC, and CF); carcass records from 346,350 prime animals along with AS records from 316,073 prime animals were also used. Heritability estimates ranged from moderate to high (0.18-0.62) for all cow and prime animal traits. The same carcass trait in cows and prime animals were strongly genetically correlated with each other (0.76-0.85), implying that they are influenced by very similar genomic variants. Selecting exclusively for cows with higher BCS (i.e., fatter) will, on average, produce more conformed prime animal carcasses, owing to a moderate genetic correlation (0.30) between both traits. Genetic correlations revealed that selecting exclusively for lighter BW or CW cows will, on average, result in lighter prime animal carcasses of poor CC, while also delaying slaughter age. Nonetheless, selective breeding through total merit indexes should be successful in breeding for smaller dairy cows and desirable prime animal carcass traits concurrently, because of the nonunity genetic correlations between the cow and prime animal traits; this will help to achieve a more ethical, environmentally sustainable, and economically viable dairy-beef industry.

Genetic investigations on backfat thickness and body condition score in German Holstein cattle.

Up to now, little has been known about backfat thickness (BFT) in dairy cattle. The objective of this study was to investigate the lactation curve and genetic parameters for BFT as well as its relationship with body condition score (BCS) and milk yield (MKG). For this purpose, a dataset was analysed including phenotypic observations of 1929 German Holstein cows for BFT, BCS and MKG recorded on a single research dairy farm between September 2005 and December 2022. Additionally, pedigree and genomic information was available. Lactation curves were predicted and genetic parameters were estimated for all traits in first to third lactation using univariate random regression models. For BCS, lactation curves had nadirs at 94 DIM, 101 DIM and 107 DIM in first, second and third lactation. By contrast, trajectories of BFT showed lowest values later in lactation at 129 DIM, 117 DIM and 120 DIM in lactation numbers 1 to 3, respectively. Although lactation curves of BCS and BFT had similar shapes, the traits showed distinct sequence of curves for lactation number 2 and 3. Cows in third lactation had highest BCS, whereas highest BFT values were found for second parity animals. Average heritabilities were 0.315 ± 0.052, 0.297 ± 0.048 and 0.332 ± 0.061 for BCS in lactation number 1 to 3, respectively. Compared to that, BFT had considerably higher heritability in all lactation numbers with estimates ranging between 0.357 ± 0.028 and 0.424 ± 0.034. Pearson correlation coefficients between estimated breeding values for the 3 traits were negative between MKG with both BCS (r = -0.245 to -0.322) and BFT (r = -0.163 to -0.301). Correlation between traits BCS and BFT was positive and consistently high (r = 0.719 to 0.738). Overall, the results of this study suggest that BFT and BCS show genetic differences in dairy cattle, which might be due to differences in depletion and accumulation of body reserves measured by BFT and BCS. Therefore, routine recording of BFT on practical dairy farms could provide valuable information beyond BCS measurements and might be useful, for example, to better assess the nutritional status of cows.

The red listed eagle owl (Bubo bubo) population in Norway is exposed to POP levels exceeding threshold values for adverse health effects

The eagle owl (Bubo bubo) population in Norway is today classified as critically endangered on the red list of endangered species. Because previous studies have detected high concentrations of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in birds of prey, concerns have been raised whether POPs exposure are a significant factor to the substantial decline of the eagle owl population.The aims of this study were to measure the levels of POPs in eagle owls and to assess whether POPs may represent a potential health risk. POPs were analysed in liver samples from 100 eagle owls collected between 1994 and 2014.The concentrations of POPs were generally very high and individual birds had levels among the highest measured worldwide. The contaminant groups analysed were highly correlated (p < 0.0001). The concentrations of sum of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (∑PCB) exceeded the threshold value from moderate to severe health risk in 90% of the birds. The birds with cachectic or lean body condition had significantly higher levels of contaminants than those with higher body condition scores. No significant temporal or spatial trends were noted.The lack of temporal trends, suggest that the downward trend of POPs, appear to be levelling off. The lack of differences between inland and coastal regions suggest that the risk of exposure may be comparable between predatory birds feeding in marine or terrestrial food webs. The significantly higher POPs levels detected in individuals with poor body condition may be due to reduced fat stores and thereby higher concentration in the remaining fat and/or the weight loss could be induced by toxic effects. The high proportion of birds exceeding the threshold values for severe and high risk of adverse effects, suggest that the high contamination load may reduce the eagle owl’s fitness and survival and, thus, contribute to decline of the eagle owl population.

Bile acid profiles and mRNA abundance of bile acid-related genes in adipose tissue of dairy cows with high versus normal body condition

Besides their lipid-digestive role, bile acids (BA) influence overall energy homeostasis, such as glucose and lipid metabolism. We hypothesized that BA along with their receptors, regulatory enzymes, and transporters are present in subcutaneous adipose tissue (scAT). In addition, we hypothesized that their mRNA abundance varies with the body condition of dairy cows around calving. Therefore, we analyzed BA in serum and scAT as well as the mRNA abundance of BA-related enzymes, transporters, and receptors in scAT during the transition period in cows with different body conditions around calving. In a previously established animal model, 38 German Holstein cows were divided into either a high (HBCS; n = 19) or normal BCS (NBCS; n = 19) group based on their BCS and back-fat thickness (BFT). Cows were fed different diets to achieve the targeted differences in BCS and BFT (NBCS: BCS <3.5, BFT <1.2 cm; HBCS: BCS >3.75, BFT >1.4 cm) until dry-off at 7 wk antepartum. During the dry period and subsequent lactation, both groups were fed the same diets according to their energy demands. Using a targeted metabolomics approach via liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-MS /MS, BA were analyzed in serum and scAT at wk -7, 1, 3, and 12 relative to parturition. In serum, 15 BA were observed: cholic acid (CA), chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), glycocholic acid (GCA), taurocholic acid (TCA), glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA), taurochenodeoxycholic acid, deoxycholic acid (DCA), lithocholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid (GDCA), glycolithocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, taurolithocholic acid, β-muricholic acid, tauromuricholic acid (sum of α and β), and glycoursodeoxycholic acid, whereas in scAT 7 BA were detected: CA, GCA, TCA, GCDCA, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, GDCA, and taurodeoxycholic acid. In serum and scAT samples, the primary BA CA and its conjugate GCA were predominantly detected. Increasing serum concentrations of CA, CDCA, TCA, GCA, GCDCA, DCA, and β-muricholic acid with the onset of lactation might be related to the increasing DMI after parturition. Furthermore, serum concentrations of CA, CDCA, GCA, DCA, GCDCA, TCA, lithocholic acid, and GDCA were lower in HBCS cows compared with NBCS cows, concomitant with increased lipolysis in HBCS cows. The correlation between CA in serum and scAT may point to the transport of CA across cell membranes. Overall, the findings of the present study suggest a potential role of BA in lipid metabolism depending on the body condition of periparturient dairy cows.

Additive Impacts of Liveweight and Body Condition Score at Breeding on the Reproductive Performance of Merino and Non-Merino Ewe Lambs.

Ewe lambs that are heavier due to improved nutrition pre- and post-weaning achieve puberty at a younger age, are more fertile, and have a higher reproductive rate. Fatness is intimately linked to reproduction, and we hypothesised that higher body condition scores at breeding would have positive effects on the reproductive rate of ewe lambs over and above liveweight. We also expected that if only a proportion of ewe lambs were presented for breeding, then it would be more effective to select them based on both liveweight and body condition score. To test these hypotheses, we analysed data from over 17,000 records from Merino and non-Merino ewe lambs from 22 different flocks across Australia. Non-Merino ewe lambs were more fertile (69.4% vs. 48.7%) and achieved a higher reproductive rate than Merino ewe lambs (96.9% vs. 60.7%). There were significant curvilinear relationships between liveweight (p < 0.001) or body condition score (p < 0.001) prior to breeding and reproductive rate for both Merino and non-Merino ewe lambs. For both breeds, there was a significant (p < 0.001) quadratic effect of body condition score prior to breeding on reproductive rate, independent of the correlated changes in liveweight, and at the same liveweight, an extra 0.5 of a body condition score up to 3.3 improved reproductive rate by about 20%. Nevertheless, the results indicated that if only a proportion of ewe lambs were selected for breeding, then selection based on both liveweight and body condition scores may only improve the overall reproductive rate by 1 to 2% compared to selection based on liveweight alone. We conclude that liveweight is a more effective method than body condition score for selecting ewe lambs for breeding.

Effects of dry-off or continuous lactation in Alpine and Saanen dairy goats carrying single or double kids on peripartum metabolic profile, performances, and milk composition

Dairy goat’s lactation persistence forces farmers at limiting nutrient supply to reduce yield at dry-off. Omitting dry period could be a solution, but metabolic effects of this practice have never been tested. Eight Alpine (AL) and 12 Saanen (SA) goats approaching their second kidding blocked by breed and number of kids carried (single - SIN - or double - DOU) were allocated to one out of two groups (4 AL and 6 SA; 5 SIN and 5 DOU in each group). At −42 ± 7 days from kidding (DFK), they were either dried off (DR) or milked continuously until kidding (CL). Body condition score (BCS) was assessed, and blood samples were collected at −10, −3, 5, 12, and 29 DFK to determine metabolic profile. Milk yield and composition were assessed at −56, 7, 31, 62, and 97 DFK. Compared with DR, CL had higher plasma reactive oxygen metabolites and liver enzymes. Compared with DR counterparts, AL-CL had higher nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) at −10, whereas SA-CL had lower NEFA at −3 DFK. CL goats had lower BCS, higher plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and urea before kidding, but higher glucose at −3 and 5, lower NEFA at 5 and 12, and higher BCS at 29 DFK. CL goats had lower haptoglobin and myeloperoxidase at −3 and 5 DFK, paired with higher albumin, cholesterol, and paraoxonase at 12 DFK. Omitting dry period mitigated the inflammatory condition around kidding in dairy goats, possibly accounting for an improved energy balance in early lactation, despite body reserve mobilisation prepartum was greater under continuous lactation.

Relationship between mastitis and body condition score in jersey cattle

The usefulness, validity and precision of the body condition score has been proven by many studies to evaluate body energy reserves. In general, the body condition score decreases in early lactation because cows allocate energy from their body reserves to support milk production and begin to increase during the remainder of lactation. The excessive loss of energy reserves during early lactation often associated with cows with higher body condition scores at calving often results in impaired health and reproductive performance. A high or low body condition score is also associated with higher incidences of metritis, milk fever, lameness, and mastitis. Positive genetic correlations have been noted between body energy reserve changes and somatic cell count or clinical mastitis. In this study, the relationship between body condition score and mastitis in Jersey cattle was investigated.

Clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging findings, and outcome of 80 Dachshunds with cervical intervertebral disc extrusion.

Large clinical studies regarding cervical intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) in Dachshunds are lacking. This retrospective multicentric study therefore aims to describe the clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and outcomes of Dachshunds diagnosed with cervical IVDE. Medical records of Dachshunds with cervical IVDE were reviewed for signalment, onset of clinical signs, neurological examination, MRI features, treatment and outcome. Eighty Dachshunds were included in the study, mostly ambulatory (55% grade 1 and 33% grade 2) and without nerve root signature (85% of cases) on presentation. Information on coat type was available for 56% of dogs; specifically, 41% were smooth-haired, 9% were long-haired and 6% were wire-haired Dachshunds. There were 29 (36%) neutered female, 27 (34%) male entire, 15 (19%) male neutered and 9 (11%) entire female dogs. The onset of clinical signs was most often >48 h (84%). The most common intervertebral disc space affected was C2-C3 (38%) and foraminal IVDEs were reported in 14% of dogs. A foraminal IVDE was diagnosed in only 25% of dogs presented with nerve root signatures. Most dogs (77.5%) were treated surgically. In this group, a higher body condition score on presentation and a higher mean spinal cord compression ratio calculated on MRI were directly and moderately associated with a longer hospitalization time (r = 0.490 p = 0.005 and r = 0.310 p = 0.012, respectively). The recovery time was longer in dogs with an onset of clinical signs <24 h or 24-48 h compared to those with an onset of clinical signs >48 h (3.1 ± 6.5 days versus 1.6 ± 6.2, p < 0.001) in both medically and surgically treated groups. Data about the outcome was available for 83% of dogs. Eighty percent of the entire population of dogs was considered to have completely returned to normal. There was no association between the therapeutic choice (surgical versus medical management) and the outcome of the dogs included in this study.

Sütçü sığırlarda klinik ve subklinik ketozis ile ilişkili üreme performansı, süt verim parametreleri ve bazı postpartum hastalıklar

Negative energy balance (NEB) is a physiological state that arises during the transition from pregnancy to lactation in dairy cows. This transition period is associated with a decline in dry matter intake and an increased demand for energy sources for milk production. Ketosis, a metabolic disorder, often emerges shortly after calving and is characterized by reduced glucose levels, depleted liver glycogen, and elevated ketone body concentrations. The study aimed to investigate the impacts of ketosis on milk yield, reproductive parameters, and postpartum metabolic diseases in cows with subclinical and clinical ketosis. The study involved 267 healthy pregnant Holstein dairy cows in the second and third lactation periods. Groups were formed based on postpartum third-day beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) levels. The groups included control (BHBA &lt; 1.2 mmol/dL), subclinical ketosis (BHBA = 1.2-2.4 mmol/dL), and clinical ketosis (BHBA &gt; 2.4 mmol/dL) groups. Results indicated that higher body condition scores (BCS) during calving were associated with an increased risk of postpartum ketosis (p