Concentrations of selected immunological parameters in the serum and processing fluid of suckling piglets and the serum and colostrum of their mothers.

BACKGROUND: Blood sampling from neonatal piglets is related to multiple disadvantages. Therefore, a new, alternative matrix is required to assess piglets' early immune status efficiently. The present study aimed to assess the usefulness of processing fluid for determining selected piglets' immune parameters. 264 pigs - 31 sows, 146 male piglets, and 87 female piglets from commercial indoor farrow-to-finish pig herd were included in this study. 264 serum, 31 colostrum, and 146 processing fluid samples were collected. Serum was collected from all animals, colostrum was collected from sows, and processing fluid was collected from male piglets only. Using commercial ELISA tests, the concentration of various immunoglobulins, cytokines, and acute phase proteins was assessed in each matrix. Statistical analyses were employed to determine differences in the concentration of measured indices between piglets' serum and processing fluid and correlations in the concentration of tested indices between particular sets of matrices. RESULTS: Statistical analyses did not reveal significant differences in the IgG, IgA, IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, and IFN-γ concentration between piglets' serum and processing fluid (p > 0.05). A positive correlation (p < 0.05) regarding the concentration of some indices between processing fluid and samples collected from sows was also observed. CONCLUSIONS: Processing fluid can be considered a promising alternative to blood for assessing some immunological indices in piglets, such as IgG, IgA, IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, and IFN-γ, and, possibly, in the indirect assessment of some indices in lactating sows, including IgA, IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ, or Pig-MAP.

Influence of an iron dextran injection in various diseases on hematological blood parameters, including serum ferritin, neonatal dairy calves.

BACKGROUND: Feeding milk substitutes with low iron content or whole milk without iron supplementation is considered a major factor in developing iron-deficiency anemia in neonatal dairy calves. Young calves are often supplemented with iron dextran injections on the first day of life to prevent anemia. However, the effects of preventive treatment and the presence of disease on serum iron (Fe) concentrations, serum ferritin levels, and hematological blood parameters during the early neonatal stages have not been examined in detail. Therefore, we examined and evaluated the effects of iron dextran injections and health status on the development of hematocrit (Ht), red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), erythrocyte indices (mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration), Fe, and serum ferritin concentrations in dairy calves within the first 10 days of life. The suitability of serum ferritin as a reliable indicator of anemia in very young calves was evaluated by correlating ferritin concentrations with known laboratory diagnostic parameters of anemia. RESULTS: Iron supplementation significantly increased Fe levels (P = 0.048) but did not affect serum ferritin levels in neonatal calves. Fe concentrations were significantly lower in diseased than healthy calves (P = 0.0417). Iron supplementation significantly affected the health status, as observed in Ht (Ptreat=0.0057; Phealth=0.0097), RBC (Ptreat=0.0342; Phealth=0.0243), and Hb (Ptreat=0.0170; Phealth=0.0168). Serum ferritin levels did not significantly correlate with Fe levels. Both groups showed marked differences in ferritin levels, with the highest levels measured on day 2. Fe concentrations showed weak negative correlations with Hb and Ht levels on day 3 (ρ=-0.45; P = 0.0034 and ρ=-0.045; P = 0.0032, respectively). RBC count showed strong positive correlations with Hb and Ht levels (ρ = 0.91 and ρ = 0.93; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Iron dextran injections increased Fe concentrations but reduced Ht level, RBC count, and Hb level. The presence of diseases led to a reduction in Fe and higher values of Ht, RBC, and Hb in moderate disease than in severe disease. Due to physiological fluctuations during the first 3 days of life, serum ferritin level seems unuseful for evaluating iron storage before day 4 of life.

Trace mineral concentrations in Canadian beef calves at weaning.

Objective: To describe the copper and selenium statuses of beef calves at weaning. Animal: Calves (n = 1998) were sampled from 106 Canadian cow-calf herds in the fall of 2021. Procedure: Serum samples from calves were tested for copper, selenium, and molybdenum concentrations. Results: Although the percentages of calves classified as selenium deficient (< 0.025 ppm) were relatively low (0.5% western Canada, 3% eastern Canada), 53% of calves from western Canada and 77% of calves from eastern Canada were classified as having less than adequate selenium concentrations (< 0.08 ppm). Copper deficiency (< 0.5 ppm) was common in calves from both western (17%) and eastern (14%) Canada. High molybdenum concentrations (> 0.10 ppm) were identified in 6% of calves from western Canada and 7% of calves from eastern Canada. Conclusion: Selenium concentrations were higher in calves from western Canada than from those in eastern Canada (P < 0.001). Copper and molybdenum concentrations were not significantly different between western and eastern Canada. Less-than-adequate serum copper was the most common deficiency identified in Canadian beef calves at weaning. Clinical relevance: Trace minerals are important for immune system function in calves at weaning. Selenium concentrations in calves at weaning were lower than in cows from the same herds collected at pregnancy testing 2 y earlier. Copper deficiency was also identified, though less frequently than for mature cows. Supplementation programs for calves should be customized based on testing and recognize both regional and age differences in risk.

Concentrations d'oligo-éléments minéraux chez les veaux de boucherie canadiens au sevrage. Objectif: Décrire les statuts en cuivre et en sélénium des veaux de boucherie au sevrage. Animal: Des veaux (n = 1998) ont été échantillonnés dans 106 troupeaux de type vache-veau canadiens à l'automne 2021. Procédure: Des échantillons de sérum de veaux ont été testés pour déterminer les concentrations de cuivre, de sélénium et de molybdène. Résultats: Même si les pourcentages de veaux classés comme déficients en sélénium (< 0,025 ppm) étaient relativement faibles (0,5 % dans l'ouest du Canada, 3 % dans l'est du Canada), 53 % des veaux de l'ouest du Canada et 77 % des veaux de l'est du Canada étaient classés comme ayant moins des concentrations de sélénium moins qu'adéquates (< 0,08 ppm). Une carence en cuivre (< 0,5 ppm) était courante chez les veaux de l'ouest (17 %) et de l'est (14 %) du Canada. Des concentrations élevées de molybdène (> 0,10 ppm) ont été identifiées chez 6 % des veaux de l'ouest du Canada et 7 % des veaux de l'est du Canada. Conclusion: Les concentrations de sélénium étaient plus élevées chez les veaux de l'ouest du Canada que chez ceux de l'est du Canada (P < 0,001). Les concentrations de cuivre et de molybdène n'étaient pas significativement différentes entre l'ouest et l'est du Canada. Un taux de cuivre sérique nettement insuffisamment était la carence la plus courante identifiée chez les veaux de boucherie canadiens au sevrage. Pertinence clinique: Les oligo-éléments sont importants pour le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des veaux au sevrage. Les concentrations de sélénium chez les veaux au sevrage étaient inférieures à celles des vaches des mêmes troupeaux collectées lors des tests de gestation deux ans plus tôt. Des carences en cuivre ont également été identifiées, quoique moins fréquemment que chez les vaches matures. Les programmes de supplémentation pour les veaux doivent être personnalisés en fonction des tests et reconnaître les différences de risque selon la région et l'âge.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Serum concentrations of selenium, copper, and zinc in neonatal foals: Influence of failure of passive transfer and age-related changes.

Background: An adequate supply of trace elements is very important for equine neonates, as deficiencies can lead to health problems and even death. Objective: This study investigated serum concentrations of selenium (Se), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in neonatal foals up to the 8th day of life. The influences of disease, age, and failure of passive transfer (FPT) on these concentrations were analyzed. Animals and procedure: Serum concentrations of Se, Cu, and Zn were determined from blood samples of 93 foals by means of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The foals were divided into 2 groups based on health status: clinically sick (n = 51) and clinically healthy (n = 42). The latter group was further divided into foals with FPT (n = 20) and those without (n = 22). Results: Mean serum concentrations for Se, Cu, and Zn were 60 ± 40 µg/L, 0.25 ± 0.22 mg/L, and 605 ± 285 µg/L, respectively. A significant influence of age on serum Cu concentration was observed (P < 0.0001). No differences were observed between any of the serum concentrations in clinically sick and clinically healthy foals on the 1st day of life. The FPT status was not associated with reduced serum concentrations of Se, Cu, or Zn. Conclusion and clinical relevance: It is not necessary to supplement trace elements in all foals with FPT.

Concentrations sériques de sélénium, de cuivre et de zinc chez les poulains nouveau-nés : influence de l'échec du transfert passif et des changements liés à l'âge. Contexte: Un apport suffisant en oligo-éléments est très important pour les nouveau-nés équins, car des carences peuvent entraîner des problèmes de santé, voire la mort. Objectif: Cette étude a examiné les concentrations sériques de sélénium (Se), de cuivre (Cu) et de zinc (Zn) chez les poulains nouveau-nés jusqu'au 8ème jour de vie. Les influences de maladies, de l'âge et de l'échec du transfert passif (FPT) sur ces concentrations ont été analysées. Animaux et procédure: Les concentrations sériques de Se, Cu et Zn ont été déterminées à partir d'échantillons de sang de 93 poulains au moyen d'une spectrométrie de masse à plasma à couplage inductif. Les poulains ont été divisés en 2 groupes en fonction de leur état de santé: cliniquement malades (n = 51) et cliniquement sains (n = 42). Ce dernier groupe a été divisé en poulains avec FPT (n = 20) et ceux sans (n = 22). Résultats: Les concentrations sériques moyennes de Se, Cu et Zn étaient respectivement de 60 ± 40 µg/L, 0,25 ± 0,22 mg/L et 605 ± 285 µg/L. Une influence significative de l'âge sur la concentration sérique de Cu a été observée (P < 0,0001). Aucune différence n'a été observée entre les concentrations sériques chez les poulains cliniquement malades et cliniquement sains au premier jour de leur vie. Le statut FPT n'était pas associé à une réduction des concentrations sériques de Se, Cu ou Zn. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Il n'est pas nécessaire de supplémenter tous les poulains en oligo-éléments avec FPT.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Serum selenium concentrations in neonatal calves: Influence of postnatal selenium injection and health status.

Background: Selenium supply plays a major role in calf rearing, as a deficiency can lead to health problems, economic loss, and even death. Therefore, postnatal selenium injections are often administered as a preventive measure. Objective: In this study, we examined the serum selenium concentrations of healthy and sick calves within the first days of life. Further, serum concentrations after injection with selenium were determined. Animals and procedure: Serum selenium concentrations from 75 calves were measured until the 10th d of life and the differences between sick and healthy calves were investigated. The variations in selenium concentration were analyzed 3 and 6 d after subcutaneous injection of 5.5 mg sodium selenite in 32 calves.To compare serum concentrations between healthy and sick calves, an independent samples t-test was used. For unequal variances, the Satterthwaite method was used; and for equal variances, the pooled sample variance was used. To analyze the statistical differences between the concentrations at different time points, the data were log-transformed and the Bonferroni correction was used. Results: The mean initial selenium concentration was 46 ± 37 µg/L. There was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.60) between sick (46 ± 34 µg/L) and healthy (46 ± 47 µg/L) calves. Serum selenium concentrations 3 and 6 d after injection of calves over 3 samples were 62 ± 19 µg/L and 50 ± 13 µg/L, respectively. Calves with an initial serum concentration of ≥ 72 µg/L showed a decrease of serum selenium concentration despite the injection. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Newborn calves showed a high variation in selenium concentration that was not influenced by health status. A single injection of 5.5 mg of sodium selenite did increase the selenium concentration in calves with selenium undersupply. After injection, none of the calves showed serum concentrations above the reference range for adult cattle. Therefore, the indication for a selenium injection can be interpreted generously if selenium undersupply is suspected.

Concentrations sériques de sélénium chez les veaux nouveau-nés : influence de l'injection postnatale de sélénium et de l'état de santé. Contexte: L'apport en sélénium joue un rôle majeur dans l'élevage des veaux, car une carence peut entraîner des problèmes de santé, des pertes économiques et même la mort. Par conséquent, des injections postnatales de sélénium sont souvent administrées à titre préventif. Objectif: Dans cette étude, nous avons examiné les concentrations sériques de sélénium de veaux sains et malades au cours des premiers jours de vie. De plus, les concentrations sériques après injection de sélénium ont été déterminées. Animaux et procédure: Les concentrations sériques de sélénium de 75 veaux ont été mesurées jusqu'au 10e jour de vie et les différences entre les veaux malades et sains ont été étudiées. Les variations de concentration en sélénium ont été analysées 3 et 6 jours après l'injection sous-cutanée de 5,5 mg de sélénite de sodium chez 32 veaux.Pour comparer les concentrations sériques entre les veaux sains et malades, un test t sur échantillons indépendants a été utilisé. Pour les variances inégales, la méthode de Satterthwaite a été utilisée; et pour des variances égales, la variance de l'échantillon groupé a été utilisée. Pour analyser les différences statistiques entre les concentrations à différents moments, les données ont été transformées par logarithme et la correction de Bonferroni a été utilisée. Résultats: La concentration initiale moyenne en sélénium était de 46 ± 37 µg/L. Il n'y avait pas de différence statistiquement significative (P = 0,60) entre les veaux malades (46 ± 34 µg/L) et sains (46 ± 47 µg/L). Les concentrations sériques de sélénium 3 et 6 jours après l'injection des veaux sur 3 échantillons étaient respectivement de 62 ± 19 µg/L et de 50 ± 13 µg/L. Les veaux avec une concentration sérique initiale ≥ 72 µg/L ont montré une diminution de la concentration sérique en sélénium malgré l'injection. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Les veaux nouveau-nés ont montré une forte variation de la concentration en sélénium qui n'était pas influencée par l'état de santé. Une injection unique de 5,5 mg de sélénite de sodium a augmenté la concentration de sélénium chez les veaux présentant un apport insuffisant en sélénium. Après l'injection, aucun veau n'a présenté de concentrations sériques supérieures à la plage de référence pour les bovins adultes. Par conséquent, l'indication d'une injection de sélénium peut être interprétée de manière généreuse si un apport insuffisant en sélénium est suspecté.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Predicting colostrum and calf blood components based on refractometry.

Provision of good quality colostrum is essential for the passive immunity and nutrition of newborn calves. In order to better predict the quality of colostrum and the transfer of passive immunity, the relationships between colostrum components and between calf serum components were examined in this study. Samples of bulk tank milk, colostrum pooled from several cows 0-4 d postpartum, and colostrum collected from individual cows twice daily for 3 d post-partum were compared. With the exception of fat percentage, there were strong correlations between the levels of the components in the pooled colostrum and in the individual cow colostrum collected 0-1 d postpartum. The correlations between total solids as measured by Brix refractometry and total protein, immunoglobulin G (IgG), lactose % and protein % in colostrum within 1 d postpartum and pooled colostrum were 0.92, 0.90, -0.88 and 0.98, respectively. These high correlations enabled these colostrum components to be accurately predicted from Brix % and therefore, the volume of colostrum required to feed neonate calves can be optimised based on Brix refractometry to avoid failure of passive immunity transfer. To assess whether the components obtained from colostrum were correlated in calf blood, newborn calves were separated from their dams before suckling and blood sampled before feeding (day 0), and on days 1 and 7, after receiving colostrum or milk twice a day. The correlations between glucose, total protein, IgG, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels in the calf blood were lower than the correlations observed between the colostrum components. The highest correlation was between serum protein measured by refractometer and serum IgG within one week postpartum. GGT activity was not a good indicator of serum IgG levels. However, serum protein refractometer measurements predicted serum IgG level with high accuracy, providing an on-farm test to determine that calves have received sufficient passive immunity and colostrum components.

Dromedary camel CD14high MHCIIhigh monocytes display inflammatory properties and are reduced in newborn camel calves.

BACKGROUND: In human and different animal species, blood monocytes are classified based on their expression pattern of different monocytic markers into phenotypically and functionally different subsets. In the current study, we used flow cytometry and monoclonal antibodies to CD172a, CD14, CD163 and MHCII to identify monocyte subsets in peripheral blood of dromedary camels. RESULTS: Based on CD14, CD163 and MHCII expression, camel CD172a + monocytes were divided into three subsets: The major subpopulation of camel monocytes (mo-I) showed high expression of CD14 and CD163, but low expression of MHCII. A second subset of monocytes (mo-II) expressed highly all three markers, CD14, CD163 and MHCII. A third monocyte subset (mo-III) displayed low expression of CD14 and CD163 with high MHCII expression. While the two MHCIIhigh subsets (mo-II and mo-III) showed higher expression of CD11a in comparison to the MHCIIlow subset (mo-I), CD18 and CD11b were highest expressed on the two CD14high subsets (mo-I and mo-II). Bacterial stimulation of camel leukocytes identified mo-II cells as an antimicrobial monocyte subset with the highest phagocytic and ROS production capacity. The comparison of monocyte counts and phenotype between newborn calves and adult camels revealed significantly reduced numbers of mo-II cells in newborn animals. Monocytes of newborns expressed significantly more CD172a and CD163 molecules but less CD14 and MHCII molecules than monocytes of adult camels. CONCLUSIONS: Camel monocyte subsets, mo-I, mo-II and mo-III are counterparts of bovine classical, intermediate and non-classical monocytes respectively. The distribution of camel monocyte subsets is influenced by age.

Morphine plasmatic concentration in a pregnant mare and its foal after long term epidural administration.

BACKGROUND: Epidural administration of morphine has been shown to be an effective analgesic strategy in horses; however, the possible occurrence of side effects limits its usage. In order to decrease their frequency, it is important to target the minimal effective plasma concentration and avoid overdosing. As to date species-specific pharmacokinetics data are not available for epidural morphine, the dosing regimen is usually established on the basis of clinical reports and personal experience. In certain physiological conditions, like gestation, the outcome of an empirical dosing scheme can be unpredictable. The aim of this case report is to describe the pharmacological profile of morphine and its metabolites after prolonged epidural administration in a pregnant mare and her foal. CASE PRESENTATION: A 20 years old pregnant mare was presented to our hospital because of severe lameness, 2 months before delivery. Following an ineffective systemic pain treatment, an epidural catheter was inserted and morphine administered (initial dose 0.1 mg/kg every 8 h). Due to its efficacy in controlling pain, it was continued until end of gestation. Plasmatic concentration of morphine and its metabolites were assessed in the mare 6 weeks after starting the treatment, and in both the mare and foal during the first days after delivery. Plasmatic values similar to those previously reported in the literature following morphine short term administration through various routes and not accompanied by side effects were found in the mare, except during an excitatory period. Moreover, no evidence of dangerous drug accumulation or significant milk passage was noticed in the foal. Mild reduction of feces production with no signs of colic and two self-limiting episodes of excitement occurred during treatment in the mare. No side effects occurred during gestation and first phases of life in the foal. CONCLUSION: Prolonged epidural administration of morphine in a pregnant mare allowed good pain control in absence of clinically relevant side effects, in both the mare and her foal. Sudden increase in morphine plasmatic concentration can occur and side effects appear; careful treatment to the lowest effective dose and continuous monitoring of the clinical condition of the treated horse should be performed.

DCO2/PaCO2 correlation on high-frequency oscillatory ventilation combined with volume guarantee using increasing frequencies in an animal model.

To examine the correlation DCO2/PaCO2 on high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) combined with volume guarantee (VG) throughout increasing frequencies in two different respiratory conditions, physiological and low compliance. Neonatal animal model was used, before and after a bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). HFOV combined with VG was used. The frequency was increased from 10 to 20 Hz, and high-frequency tidal volume (VThf) was gradually decreased maintaining a constant DCO2. Arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) was evaluated after each frequency and VThf change. Six 2-day-old piglets were studied. A linear decrease in PaCO2 was observed throughout increasing frequencies in both respiratory conditions while maintaining a constant DCO2, showing a significant difference between the initial PaCO2 (at 10 Hz) and the PaCO2 obtained at 18 and 20 Hz. A new DCO2 equation (corrected DCO2) was calculated in order to better define the correlation between DCO2 and the observed PaCO2.Conclusion: The correlation DCO2/PaCO2 throughout increasing frequencies is not linear, showing a greater CO2 elimination efficiency at higher frequencies, in spite of maintaining a constant DCO2. So, using frequencies close to the resonant frequency of the respiratory system on HFOV combined with VG, optimizes the efficiency of gas exchange.What is Known: • The efficacy of CO2removal during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV), described as the diffusion coefficient of CO2(DCO2) is related to the square of the high-frequency tidal volume (VThf) and the frequency (f), expressed as DCO2= VThf2× f.What is New: • The correlation between DCO2and PaCO2throughout increasing frequencies is not linear, showing a greater CO2elimination efficiency at higher frequencies. So, using very high frequencies on HFOV combined with volume guarantee optimizes the efficiency of gas exchange allowing to minimize lung injury.

Short communication: Variation in serum immunoglobulin G concentrations from birth to 112 days of age in Holstein calves fed a commercial colostrum replacer or maternal colostrum.

Serum IgG concentrations in dairy calves change throughout their first weeks of life, peaking at 24 h and then steadily decreasing until calves begin to produce endogenous IgG. The objective of this study was to observe serum IgG dynamics from birth until 16 wk of life in calves fed either maternal colostrum (MC) or colostrum replacer (CR). A total of 44 Holstein calves were randomly assigned to 1 of the 4 colostrum treatments and followed throughout the study. Treatments consisted of feeding high-quality MC, low-quality MC supplemented with CR, or 1 of 2 distinct levels of IgG concentration from CR. Overall, the interaction between type of colostrum fed and sampling time was significant. Individual differences for this effect were found at d 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 98, while the other time points were not different.

Short communication: Plasma concentration and tissue mRNA expression of haptoglobin in neonatal calves.

Haptoglobin (Hp), one of the major positive acute phase proteins in cattle, is released in response to proinflammatory cytokines. Colostrum intake might influence the response of the innate immune system, including Hp gene expression. Thus, we hypothesized that plasma concentrations and tissue mRNA expression of Hp in neonatal calves might be influenced by early nutrition in the neonatal calf and would thus be greater if receiving colostrum compared with milk-based formula. Two trials were performed. In trial 1, German Holstein calves were fed either colostrum (COL; n = 7) or milk-based formula (FOR; n = 7) up to 4 d of life. Blood was sampled from d 1 to 4 before morning feeding and before and 2 h after feeding on d 4. Tissue samples from liver, kidney fat, duodenum, and ileum were collected after slaughter on d 4 at 2 h after feeding. In trial 2, calves born preterm (n = 7) or at term (n = 7) received colostrum only at 24 h post natum. Blood was sampled at birth, and before and 2 h after feeding. Tissue samples from liver and kidney fat were collected after slaughter at 26 h after birth. Blood plasma, colostrum, and formula Hp concentrations were determined using a competitive ELISA. Tissue expression of Hp mRNA was quantified by real-time quantitative PCR. The formula contained much less Hp (≤0.5 µg/mL) than colostrum (69.3, 93.9, and 20.4 µg/mL from d 1 to d 3, respectively). In trial 1, before colostrum or formula feeding, plasma concentrations of Hp were comparable in both groups. Plasma Hp increased in FOR after feeding, resulting in greater or a trend for greater plasma Hp concentrations in FOR than in COL calves. The mRNA abundance of Hp in liver and kidney fat was 3- and 2.2-fold greater in FOR than in COL calves, respectively, whereas duodenal and ileal abundance of Hp mRNA did not differ between groups. In trial 2, plasma Hp concentrations decreased slightly over time in term calves, but they did not differ in both groups before and 2 h after feeding on d 2. The abundance of Hp mRNA in liver was 5.3-fold greater in term than in preterm calves, whereas its abundance in kidney fat did not differ between groups. Contrasting our hypothesis, formula, but not colostrum feeding was associated with greater Hp mRNA abundance in liver and adipose tissue, indicating that the response of innate immune system seems to be modulated by formula feeding because of the lack of immunoglobulin intake. The lower hepatic abundance of Hp mRNA in preterm calves than in term calves may indicate lower synthetic capacity of the liver for Hp in preterm calves shortly after birth.

Colostrum supplementation with n-3 fatty acids and α-tocopherol alters plasma polyunsaturated fatty acid profile and decreases an indicator of oxidative stress in newborn calves.

Our objective was to characterize the effects of supplementing newborn calves with n-3 fatty acids (FA) and α-tocopherol on blood lipid profiles and oxidant status in early life. Sixteen calves received 0 or 60 mL of 1:1 fish and flaxseed oil with 200 mg of α-tocopherol in 2.8 L of colostrum within 6 h after birth. Colostrum was >22% on the Brix scale. Blood was sampled on d 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, and 21 after birth for assessment of plasma polyunsaturated FA, α-tocopherol, total serum protein, and oxidant status index, an indirect indicator of oxidative stress that examines the balance between the concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and antioxidant capacity in serum. Health was observed daily. Weight and hip height were recorded at birth, 3 wk, and 8 wk. Data were analyzed with a Mixed procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Treatment did not alter concentration of total protein in blood serum, prevalence of diarrhea or other signs of disease, or rate of growth. Feeding n-3 FA and α-tocopherol increased plasma concentrations of the n-3 FA, including α-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic acids, with a concomitant decrease in oxidant status index during the first week of life. Concentrations of α-tocopherol decreased with supplementation, but all calves maintained adequate concentrations. Oxidant status index of treated calves returned to the level of control calves by d 14. We conclude that a colostrum supplement of n-3 FA and α-tocopherol is safe to administer to newborn calves, reduces oxidant status in the first week of life, and may improve health and performance.

Pharmacokinetics of toltrazuril and its metabolites in pregnant and nonpregnant ewes and determination of their concentrations in milk, allantoic fluid, and newborn plasma.

The objectives of this study were to determine the pharmacokinetics of toltrazuril and its metabolites in pregnant and nonpregnant ewes following a single oral dose and to determine the plasma concentrations of these compounds in milk, allantoic fluid, and newborn plasma. Eighteen healthy ewes were randomly divided into three groups (n = 6 each): pregnant ewes at 12-13 weeks of gestation (group A), nonpregnant ewes (group B), and pregnant ewes at 1-2 weeks before expected lambing date (group C). Ewes in all groups received a single oral dose of toltrazuril at 20 mg/kg body weight. In groups A and B, blood samples were collected at 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 18 hr, every 6 hr to day 3, every 12 hr to day 7 and thereafter every 24 hr to day 14 post-toltrazuril administration. In group C, parturition was induced 24-36 hr after toltrazuril administration then milk, allantoic fluid, and newborn plasma samples were collected immediately after birth. Drug metabolites were assayed using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet detection method (UHPLC-UV). The maximum concentration (Cmax ), area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-t) , AUC to 24 and 48 hr (AUC0-24 ), and (AUC0-48 ) were significantly higher in pregnant ewes. Longer apparent half-life (T1/2 ), significantly higher apparent volume of distribution (Vd/F) and total clearance (Cl/F) were observed in nonpregnant ewes. The time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax ), mean residence time (MRT) and elimination rate constant (Kel ) were similar in both groups. The AUC0-24 and AUC0-48 were significantly higher in nonpregnant ewes. The AUC0-t was significantly higher in pregnant ones. The ratio of plasma toltrazuril concentrations in ewes and toltrazuril concentrations in newborn lambs' plasma, allantoic fluid, and milk were 68%, 2.3%, and 5.3%, respectively. Results of this study showed that toltrazuril is well absorbed after a single oral dose in ewes with widespread distribution in different body tissues.

Dietary inclusion of alternative feedstuffs had no negative effects on hematological and biochemical parameters of growing Awassi lambs.

Dietary inclusion of alternative feedstuffs (AF) could impact animal performance, ruminal ecosystem, and/or blood parameters. The objective of the current trial was to evaluate the effects of dietary inclusion of mixed AF on hematological and biochemical parameters of growing lambs. Male Awassi lambs (n = 27, average BW = 20.0 ± 0.5 kg and average age of 90 days) were randomly assigned to one of three dietary groups (9 lambs/group). Diets were formulated to contain (on DM basis) 0 (CTL; conventional diet without AF), 25% (25AF), or 50% (50AF) of mixed AF (dry bread, carob pods, olive cake, and sesame meal). Blood samples were collected from each lamb before morning feeding at the beginning (7 days after the start), middle (day 35), and end (68 day) of the study. Hematological parameters were not affected (P ≥ 0.11) by treatment diets. Except for urea N and cortisol, dietary treatments had no significant (P ≥ 0.07) effects on serum levels of all of the measured metabolites and enzymes. Lambs fed the 50AF diet had the lowest blood level of urea N and cortisol. The current study demonstrates that dietary inclusion of AF up to 50% did not negatively impact lambs' health assessed with changes in hematological and biochemical parameters.

Metabolomic studies as a tool for determining the post-mortem interval (PMI) in stillborn calves.

BACKGROUND: Perinatal mortality may vary between herds, but the cost of deaths are always higher than value of the calf. When diagnosing the cause of a calf's death it is important to determine when it occurred, before or after calving. Metabolomics is widely used to identify many human diseases, but quite rarely applied in veterinary science. The aim of this study was to compare the metabolic profiles of calves with different times of death and those of calves born alive. Into the study, twenty one healthy controls (singleton, normal assisted calving, born alive) and 75 stillborn (SB) calves (with a gestation length of ≥260 days, SB, or dead within 6 h of birth) were enrolled. Plasma and urine from SB and control calves were investigated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance based metabolomic methods. SB calves were divided into four PMI groups. One PMI group included calves that died after calving and the other groups - three comprised in utero deaths, based on pathophysiological changes (lung inflation, autolysis in internal organs, hemoglobin imbibition in the pleura and aortic arch). Partial Least Squares - Discriminant Analysis models based on plasma metabolites were calculated, reflecting assumed data clustering. RESULTS: Twenty six metabolites in plasma and 29 in urine changed significantly with PMI according to one way analysis of variance. Half the metabolites in plasma and the majority in urine increased with PMI. Six metabolites increased simultaneously in plasma and urine: acetate, sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (GPC), leucine, valine, creatine, and alanine. CONCLUSIONS: Post-mortem changes in calves were associated with molecular variations in blood plasma and urine, showing the greatest differences for the group in which the post-mortem pathological changes were the most advanced. The results of the study show that evaluation of calf plasma or urine may be used as a diagnostic method for the determination of the PMI. Moreover, the metabolites, which unambiguously increased or decreased, can be used as potential biomarkers of PMI.

Haematological and biochemical analysis of healthy neonatal puppies during the immediate foetal-to-neonatal transition.

For the neonatal patient, precocity of diagnosis is crucial for effectiveness of medical approach. However, the newborn has its own physiological peculiarities due to ongoing adaptive mechanism for extrauterine life and deserves special attention in order to underline a specific management or clinical approach. The objective of this work was to verify clinical adaptations and biochemical balance of neonates during immediate period, with special reference to haematological, renal and metabolic functions. Neonatal puppies (n = 51) were physically examined for vitality and rectal temperature at birth, 5 and 60 min post-birth. Blood was collected at birth and 60 min post-birth for analysis of glucose, sodium, potassium, chlorine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), haematocrit and haemoglobin. Neonatal vitality was lower at birth compared with 5 min and 60 min post-birth. Progressive decline in rectal temperature (36.5 ± 0.3°C, 34.2 ± 0.2°C, 32.3 ± 0.5°C) was observed at birth, 5 min and 60 min post-birth, respectively. Puppies presented slight hyponatremia (140.7 ± 0.5 mmol/L) at birth and hypopotassemia (3.5 ± 0.1 mmol/L) and blood urea nitrogen (13.1 ± 0.7 mg/dl) during the first hour, and high haematocrit (45.1 ± 1.0%) and haemoglobin (15.3 ± 0.3 g/dl) concentration. In conclusion, puppies had rapid evolution of vitality. Marked decrease in rectal temperature occurred at 5 min post-birth. Haematological values of neonates immediately after birth reflected mainly the dam's blood status, not being useful for a blood panel at this time point. The peculiar pattern of BUN, sodium and potassium observed during transition period, suggested that specific reference range should be considered for neonatal puppies.

Influence of selenium administration to dry cows on selected biochemical and immune parameters of their offspring.

The study was performed on 16 Holstein-Friesian calves divided into two groups of eight animals each. The first group was composed of calves whose mothers did not receive selenium supplements (Se0). The second group consisted of calves whose mothers were administered intramuscular injections of a selenium and vitamin E supplement containing 0.5 of sodium selenite/ml and 50 mg of tocopherol acetate/ml in a single dose of 30 ml (Se30) ml, 10 days before the expected parturition date (10 ± 2 days). The calves were fed 2.5 L of the mother's colostrum administered by stomach tube 2 hr after birth and another 2 L 6 hr after birth. Blood from all calves was collected 7 times from external jugular vein (day 0-before colostrum administration and on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 7th, 14th and 21st days of life) for analyses of selenium, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, lactoferrin, immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and lysozyme activity. Selenium concentration was significantly higher in calves whose mothers received selenium supplements than in the offspring of non-supplemented cows until 72 hr after birth (p ≤ .05). Lysozyme and GGTP activity and IgG concentration were significantly higher in the S30 group during the entire experiment (p ≤ .05). Supplementation of selenium to the mothers did not influence the ceruloplasmin, lactoferrin and transferrin levels in calves. A single injection of a selenium supplement administered to cows during late pregnancy increases selenium levels in calves and enhances passive transfer from the mother to the offspring.

Comparison of arterial and venous blood-gas values in anesthetized Dorset cross-bred lambs (Ovis aries) using a point-of-care analyzer.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the degree of agreement between arterial and venous blood gases in anesthetized lambs using a point-of-care analyzer. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental study. ANIMALS: A group of 12 female Dorset cross-bred lambs, weighing 37.3 ± 7.4 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Lambs were anesthetized with isoflurane for catheterization of the jugular vein and femoral artery, and blood samples were collected simultaneously for analysis of pH, PCO2, PO2, base excess (BE), bicarbonate ( [Formula: see text] ), total carbon dioxide (tCO2), oxygen saturation (SO2), ionized calcium (iCa) and potassium (K+) using the Vet Scan i-STAT handheld analyzer. The Bland-Altman method was used to calculate agreement between arterial and venous measurements. RESULTS: Strong agreement was identified between arterial and venous pH (bias = 0.04; 95% limits of agreement = 0.02-0.06), K+ (bias = -0.1 and 95% limits of agreement = -0.8 to 0.5) and iCa (bias = 0.04; 95% limits of agreement = -0.08 to 0.0003). There was poor agreement for PO2 (bias = 168.0; 95% limits of agreement = 77.4-258.7) and SO2 (bias = 9.1; 95% limits of agreement = 2.8-15.3), as these values were higher in arterial blood than in venous blood. Moderate agreement was present for BE (bias = 1.7; 95% limits of agreement = -2.7 to 6.1), PCO2 (bias = -2.1; 95% limits of agreement = -7.5 to 3.4), [Formula: see text] (bias = 1.1; 95% limits of agreement = -3.1 to 5.3) and tCO2 (bias = 1.0; 95% limits of agreement = -3.3 to 5.3). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Venous blood can be used for the measurement of pH, K+ and iCa in anesthetized Dorset cross-bred lambs. Arterial blood is required for accurate measurement of PO2, SO2, PCO2, [Formula: see text] , tCO2 and BE to assess systemic blood oxygenation and pulmonary function in anesthetized Dorset cross-bred lambs.

A review of diagnostic tests for diagnosing failure of transfer of passive immunity in dairy calves in New Zealand.

The aim of this review is to critically assess the test characteristics and practicality of published data on direct and indirect tests for diagnosing failure of transfer of passive immunity (FPT) in dairy calves in New Zealand, to provide recommendations for veterinary practitioners, and to examine the recommended sample size for assessing herd-level prevalence of FPT and the confidence in the results obtained. The definition of FPT is based on measurement of concentrations of IgG in serum of neonatal calves after colostrum intake. The gold standard method for measurement of concentrations of IgG is radial immunodiffusion. However its cost, requirements for laboratory equipment, and the time taken to obtain results have meant that alternative tests have been developed. The turbidimetric immunoassay and ELISA also directly measure concentrations of IgG. Indirect tests include measurement of concentrations of total proteins (TP) in the laboratory or using a refractometer, γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity, and the zinc sulfate turbidity (ZST) test. Of the indirect tests, measurement of concentrations of TP in the laboratory or using a refractometer combine high specificity and sensitivity with a consistent association with concentrations of IgG in calves between 1-7 days of age. Using a refractometer is less accurate than direct measurement in a laboratory, but is still a suitable test if low cost and speed are important. Although GGT activity is strongly associated with concentrations of IgG in serum, the relationship varies with time after birth. Therefore the target thresholds change with time, increasing error compared to the measurement of concentrations of TP in serum. Similarly, factors other than total concentrations of IgG have a significant effect on the association with ZST test, complicating interpretation. Thus, when direct measurement of concentrations of IgG is not feasible, the recommendation is that concentrations of TP in serum should be used as the diagnostic test for diagnosis of FPT, providing calves are not dehydrated. Using a sample size of 12 calves is suitable for estimating whether the herd-level prevalence of FPT is <20% or >20%, if there are no calves or >5 calves diagnosed with FPT, respectively, but is limited in diagnostic confidence when 1-4 calves test positive. Diagnostic interpretation can be significantly improved if tests of FPT are used alongside information on the likely risk of FPT on the tested farm.

Implications of low fiber levels in finishing lambs on performance, health, rumen, and carcass parameters.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of NDF in high-concentrate diets on performance and aspects ruminal, blood, and carcass parameters of finishing lambs. Twenty-four lambs, with initial BW of 24 ± 3 kg, were randomly divided into individual pens, in a completely randomized design, comprising three treatments with eight repetitions each. The treatments consisted of dietary levels of 15%, 20%, and 25% of NDF, based on DM. The diets were composed of corn, soybean meal, minerals, and corn silage and were offered twice a day, with daily control of what was offered and refused, to determine dry matter intake (DMI). The animals were weighed weekly and slaughtered after 50 days of confinement. Performance evaluations, blood parameters, carcass, and ruminal parameters were evaluated. Lambs fed with lower dietary fiber had better carcass yield (P < 0.005). Blood count, blood biochemical parameters, rumen short-chain fatty acid production and protozoan population were not affected by the dietary NDF level. It was concluded that in high-concentrate diets with 15% NDF resulting in better weight gain of the animals in the confinement, good carcass yields without the animal having altered health and ruminal parameters.