Analysis of fecal microbiome and metabolome changes in goats with pregnant toxemia.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy toxemia is a common disease, which occurs in older does that are pregnant with multiple lambs in the third trimester. Most of the sick goats die within a few days, which can seriously impact the economic benefits of goat breeding enterprises. The disease is believed to be caused by malnutrition, stress, and other factors, that lead to the disorder of lipid metabolism, resulting in increased ketone content, ketosis, ketonuria, and neurological symptoms. However, the changes in gut microbes and their metabolism in this disease are still unclear. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of toxemia of pregnancy on the fecal microbiome and metabolomics of does. RESULTS: Eight pregnant does suspected of having toxemia of pregnancy (PT group) and eight healthy does during the same pregnancy (NC group) were selected. Clinical symptoms and pathological changes at necropsy were observed, and liver tissue samples were collected for pathological sections. Jugular venous blood was collected before morning feeding to detect biochemical indexes. Autopsy revealed that the liver of the pregnancy toxemia goat was enlarged and earthy yellow, and the biochemical results showed that the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ß-hydroxybutyric acid (B-HB) in the PT group were significantly increased, while calcium (Ca) levels were significantly reduced. Sections showed extensive vacuoles in liver tissue sections. The microbiome analysis found that the richness and diversity of the PT microbiota were significantly reduced. Metabolomic analysis showed that 125 differential metabolites were screened in positive ion mode and enriched in 12 metabolic pathways. In negative ion mode, 100 differential metabolites were screened and enriched in 7 metabolic pathways. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence has shown that the occurrence of pregnancy toxemia is related to gut microbiota, and further studies are needed to investigate its pathogenesis and provide research basis for future preventive measures of this disease.

Changes in free amino acid profile in goats with pregnancy toxemia.

Pregnancy toxemia is a metabolic disorder that afflicts goats when the heightened energy requirements preceding parturition are not sufficiently satisfied. At present, the potential association between pregnancy toxemia and the free amino acid composition in hair goats remains uncharted territory. The purpose of this study is to investigate the free amino acid profile in goats during the pivotal three weeks preceding delivery, distinguishing among those with subclinical pregnancy toxemia (SPT), clinical pregnancy toxemia (CPT), and those in the control group (CG). Additionally, the study aims to investigate any potential relationship between the amino acid profile and beta hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) levels. The researchers analyzed a total of 50 goats, comprising 20 goats with SPT, 20 with CPT, and 10 in the CG. The serum free amino acid profile was determined using a gas chromatography flame ionization detector (GC-FID) device. BHBA concentration in goats with CPT and SPT was significantly higher than KG (p < 0.001). Furthermore, in goats with CPT, the glucose concentration was significantly lower than in CG (p < 0.012). In goats with CPT and SPT, the concentration of valine, one of the gluconeogenic amino acids, was significantly higher than in control group (p < 0.001), while histidine concentration was significantly lower (p < 0.020) than in control group. Specifically in goats with CPT, the concentrations of alanine (p < 0.002), serine (p < 0.001), and threonine (p < 0.043) were significantly lower than in control group. Moreover, the concentration of phenylalanine, which is both a glycogenic and ketogenic amino acid, was significantly lower (p < 0.028) in goats with SPT compared to the control group. The Fisher ratio (p < 0.010) and Glycine/Alanine ratio (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in pregnancy toxemia goats with than in control group goats, indicating a poor nutritional and energy status of the goats during the prepartum period. In summation, the findings of this study underscore that amino acids exhibiting marked concentration variations hold considerable promise in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of pregnancy toxemia.

Association of vitamin D status with redox balance and insulin resistance and its predicting ability for subclinical pregnancy toxemia in pregnant sheep.

The study aimed to evaluate the role of vitamin D on redox balance, insulin resistance and its predicting value for subclinical pregnancy toxemia (SPT) in pregnant ewes. At four weeks pre-lambing, fifteen healthy pregnant ewes were divided into two groups, ewes with sufficient vitamin D (25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25VitD) (SVD, n = 9) and ewes with insufficient 25VitD (ISVD, n = 6). Blood samples were collected at 4 weeks pre-lambing using modified frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test for the estimation of various metabolites. The baseline glucose, insulin, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), fructosamine, beta-hydroxy butyric acid (ß-BHA), calcium, phosphorus concentration and total oxidant status (TOS) did not differ significantly between the two groups, however, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was significantly (p = 0.031) low in ISVD ewes. Area under the curve for glucose, insulin, elimination rate of glucose and peak insulin also did not differ significantly between the two groups. Correlation analysis revealed, positive association of 25VitD with fructosamine, calcium and TAC, and negative correlation with NEFA and TOS. Subsequent blood sampling at 2 weeks pre-lambing and at lambing showed significant difference in NEFA (p = 0.001), ß-HBA (p = 0.001), and fructosamine(p = 0.012) between the two groups. A significant time x group interaction was observed in NEFA (p = 0.019), ß-HBA (p = 0.031), and fructosamine (p = 0.026) concentration. The NEFA concentrations were increased and fructosamine decreased at 2 weeks pre-lambing and at lambing along with significantly increased ß-HBA at 2 weeks pre-lambing in ISVD compared to SVD. Taking 0.8 mmol/L ß-HBA as the cut off limit for SPT, ISVD ewes had higher odds of developing SPT two weeks prior to lambing (OD 16.00; p = 0.042) and at lambing (OD 10; p = 0.077). This study concludes that 25VitD significantly influence redox balance and energy profile and serves as a valuable predictor for SPT in pregnant sheep.

Pulse wave Doppler ultrasound of umbilical cord in experimentally induced pregnancy toxemia in sheep.

Contrary to its widespread use in human cases, the use of Doppler ultrasonography is only recently becoming prevalent in farm animals. This study aimed to determine the effects of maternal metabolic and clinical changes on fetal hemodynamics during pregnancy toxemia with the doppler examination of umbilical cord. In the study twenty ewes with a single healthy fetus were included in the study. At the end of the 120th day of pregnancy, 20 single-bearing pregnant ewes were randomly categorized into two groups. Ewes in the control group were fed to meet all nutritional requirements. On the other contrary, the experimental ewes were fed to meet equivalent to 50 % of the daily needs and then fasted for 96 h. Doppler ultrasonographic examinations of umbilical cord were performed once every two days and once a day during fasting. Beta hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) concentration was measured by taking blood from sheep on examination days. Pulse systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), PSV/EDV, pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and fetal heart rate (FHR) as well as BHBA values and how those parameters has changed over time (time by treatment effect) due to energy deprivation during pregnancy were evaluated using repeated measure analysis of variance. No clinical signs were observed in both toxemia and control groups during restricted feeding. BHBA concentration increased and there was a significant time, time by treatment and main effect of treatment effect between groups. No significant main effect of treatment and time by treatment interaction was observed in the changes of PI, RI, FHR, and systolic/diastolic velocity values over time in both groups. FHR was reduced over time, and there was a significant time effect in FHR in both groups. Although doppler indices didn't increase, both PSV and EDV values increased significantly in the pregnancy toxemia group compared with the controls (Time P = 0.03, time by treatment interaction P < 0.05) and the main effect of treatment P < 0.05). The marked increase in blood velocities (PSV and EDV) in the umbilical cord is probably due to the compensatory functioning for excessive energy deprivation of the fetus. Therefore, PSV and EDV might be a valuable indicator for evaluating the fetus's health status during the management of the PT.

Pregnancy Toxemia Therapeutic Options.

This review covers the treatment options for pregnancy toxemia in small ruminants. Clinical assessment and detection of underlying metabolic and electrolyte derangements direct resuscitation efforts and provide prognostic indications. Treatment programs are dependent on producer goals and case specifics. Options include oral glucogenic precursors (eg, propylene glycol, glycerol), intravenous glucose solutions, insulin, and other supportive care measures. Induction of parturition or C-section is often carried out to minimize ongoing energy deficits, with variable survival rates. Prolonging gestation to maximize fetal viability often requires intensive care in a hospital setting and carries significant risk to both dam and offspring.

Pregnancy Toxemia in Sheep and Goats.

Pregnancy toxemia is a common metabolic disease of late pregnant ewes and does, which potentially has devastating impacts on health and performance. This metabolic syndrome is not only one of over conditioned animals but is more typically associated with inadequate energy intake to support pregnancy requirements leading to body protein and fat mobilization. Blood chemistries provide insight into diagnosis and possibly may predict responsiveness to treatment and outcome. Early recognition of the disease with appropriate intervention is the best approach to minimizing the impact of this disease in the sheep flock or goat herd.

Serum concentrations of folic acid and cobalamin and energy metabolism of ewes as a function of the energy density of the diet, peripartum period, and pregnancy toxemia.

The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and indicators of energy metabolism during the peripartum period of ewes submitted to different diets and with or without pregnancy toxemia. Forty Santa Inês ewes were divided into three groups, a group of 20 animals fed only roughage-diet with low energy density (G1), a group of 10 ewes submitted to diet containing roughage and concentrate-diet with high energy density (G2), and a group of 10 ewes with diagnosis of pregnancy toxemia (PT) (G3). In the ewes of groups G1 and G2, blood samples were collected -30, -15, -7 days pre-partum, on the day of partum, and 7, 15, and 30 days postpartum; blood samples from G3 animals were collected during the veterinary clinic care. Significant variations were observed in the plasma concentration of glucose and serum folic acid, cobalamin, fructosamine, NEFA, and ß-hydroxybutyrate in the groups fed diets with different energy levels, with and without PT (P < 0.05). A positive correlation of folic acid and cobalamin was observed with plasma glucose and serum NEFA concentrations, in addition to negative correlation of glucose with NEFA and ß-hydroxybutyrate and positive correlation between the latter biomarkers of energy metabolism. The ewes diagnosed with PT showed higher levels of folic acid, NEFA, and ß-hydroxybutyrate (P < 0.05). Ewes fed diet containing roughage and concentrate present higher serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and glucose, in the pre-partum period and in the lactation period. The results obtained contribute to better understanding of the application of blood concentration tests for folic acid and cobalamin in the energy metabolism and in PT in ewes.

Evaluation of metabolic and oxidative profile in ovine pregnancy toxemia and to determine their association with diagnosis and prognosis of disease.

This study was conducted on ewes with pregnancy toxemia (PT) with an attempt to evaluate metabolic and oxidative profile in subclinical and clinical ovine pregnancy toxemia and to determine their association with diagnosis and prognosis of the disease. A total of 20 ewes having beta-hydroxy butyric acid (ß-HBA) > 2.5 mmol/L and proven clinical sings of PT, categorized as clinical PT (CPT); 12 ewes having ß-HBA 0.8-2.5 mmol/L and no clinical signs of PT, categorized at subclinical PT (SPT); and 10 ewes having ß-HBA ≤ 0.8 mmol/L, categorized as healthy control (CON) were enrolled. Among 20 CPT ewes, 11 had negative outcomes (non-survivors), six ewes had positive outcomes (survivors), and three were lost during follow-up. A significant increase in non-esterified fatty acid, ß-HBA, triglycerides, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde levels and a significant decrease in fructosamine were observed in CPT and SPT compared to CON. A significant increase in cholesterol, aspartate amino transferase, and creatinine kinase and a significant decrease in albumin, potassium, calcium, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were observed in CPT only. Glucose was significantly decreased in SPT only. The highest area under the curve (AUC) was observed for fructosamine (89.7% and 87.5% for CPT and SPT, respectively) with the optimum cutoff point calculated on the basis of maximum sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP) being 0.607 mmol/L (SE: 89.3% and SP: 72.2%) and 1.005 mmol/L (SE: 90.0% and SP: 75.3%) for CPT and SPT, respectively. At the cutoff limit of 0.607 mmol/L and 1.005 mmol/L, the odds ratio was 10.8 and 8.0 for CPT and SPT, respectively. A significant decrease in fructosamine and potassium and a significant increase in creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde were observed in non-survivors compared to survivors. It was thus concluded that fructosamine was the best diagnostic indicator of both CPT and SPT followed by non-esterified fatty acid. Fructosamine, creatinine, potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde were the best prognostic indicators of PT.

Causes of abortion in Iranian sheep flocks and associated risk factors.

Abortion is a major issue in sheep husbandry. It can result in significant economic losses and a severe public health risk. This survey assessed the infectious and non-infectious causes of abortion in Iranian sheep flocks and determined the main risk factors. In this cross-sectional survey, causes of abortion were evaluated in 757 sheep flocks, and risk factors were analysed. A checklist containing general animal information for each abortion outbreak evaluated was filled in. Data were analysed using univariate tests and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. In this sense, parity, gestational age of the aborted fetus, vaccination protocol, mineral supplementation and history of stillbirth showed significant associations with abortion. Infectious agents such as Coxiella burnetti (22.7%), Chlamydia abortus (12.3%) and Brucella melitensis (10.4%) were the most frequently isolated in the investigated flocks, with more than 2% of abortion rates. On the other hand, non-infectious agents such as trauma, pregnancy toxaemia and vitamin E/Se deficiency were involved in those flocks with low abortion rates (less than 10%). Results revealed multiple causes of abortion outbreaks among Iranian sheep flocks, which need careful investigation to identify possible aetiology and risk factors. Further studies are necessary to evaluate if these factors are similar to other countries in the same region.

BHBA regulates the expressions of lipid synthesis and oxidation genes in sheep hepatocytes through the AMPK pathway.

Pregnancy toxemia (PT) is the most frequent metabolic disease of sheep during late pregnancy, which can lead to enormous economic losses in sheep farm industry. However, the underlying mechanism of PT in sheep has not been fully elucidated. High levels of ß-hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) exist in PT sheep. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway plays a major role in regulating liver function. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of gradient concentrations of BHBA on lipid metabolism of sheep hepatocytes and the underlying molecular mechanism in vitro. The results showed that 0.6, 1.2 mmol/L BHBA could activate AMPKα, promoted the expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and its target genes, and inhibited the expressions of sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) as well as its downstream genes. When the concentration of BHBA was beyond 1.2 mmol/L, the expressions of the above-mentioned proteins and genes were just the opposite. However, the expressions of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) did not change significantly. The levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol (T-CHOL) showed a gradually increasing trend with the increase of BHBA concentration. According to the results above, it demonstrates that high levels of BHBA can inhibit the expression of the AMPK pathway and cause lipid metabolism disorders in sheep hepatocytes, which may lead to the occurrence of PT.

Characterization of short- and long-term morbidity and mortality of goat kids born to does with pregnancy toxemia.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy toxemia is a common metabolic disease of periparturient small ruminants. Information on its effects on metabolism and perinatal adaptation of newborn lambs and kids is lacking. OBJECTIVES: Evaluate differences in morbidity, mortality, and common biochemical and hematologic variables between pregnancy toxemia kids (PT) and control kids (CON). ANIMALS: Sixteen kids born to does being treated at the hospital for pregnancy toxemia (blood beta-hydroxybutyrate concentration [BHB] > 1.2 mmol/L) and 12 kids from healthy dams (dam BHB < 1.2 mmol/L) that kidded at the hospital. METHODS: In this cohort study, serial measurements of blood L-lactate, glucose, and BHB concentrations, arterial blood gases, hematocrit, total protein concentrations, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) concentrations, and body weight were compared between groups over the first 72 hours of life. Long-term follow-up was performed after 3 months. RESULTS: Pregnancy toxemia kids were more likely to require tube feeding at 0 and 12 hours (relative risk 7.7 [1.13, 52.45] and 2.8 [1.39, 5.65]). Pregnancy toxemia kids were more acidemic (7.26 ± 0.069 vs 7.34 ± 0.079, P = .003) and hyperlactatemic (8.17 ± 2.57 vs 5.48 ± 2.71, P = .003) at birth than CON kids. Control kids were 1.1 [1.01, 1.77] times more likely to survive to discharge and 2.2 [1.15, 4.20] times more likely to survive to 3 months than PT kids. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Pregnancy toxemia kids had higher short- and long-term mortality and were more likely to require perinatal intervention. Weight loss in the first few days could be a useful predictor of nonsurvival.

The distinctive short-term response of late-pregnant prolific ewes to propylene glycol or glycerol drenching.

Pregnancy toxemia is the most frequent metabolic disorder of ewes in late pregnancy. Although propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GLY) are common glucogenic supplements for treating pregnancy toxemia in ewes, the relative benefit of these 2 supplements is not entirely clear. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to determine the changes during 24 h in key blood metabolites and insulin in response to PG or GLY drenching in prolific ewes. To this end, 36 multiparous late-pregnant Afec-Assaf ewes (∼132.4 d pregnant) bearing 2 to 4 fetuses, divided into 2 blocks (18 ewes in each block), with a blood ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration of 0.5 to 1.6 mmol/L were included. Ewes were divided into 3 groups (12 ewes each; 6 ewes in each experimental day), according to their BHB levels, expected litter size, body weight, and body condition score, and were drenched with the following: (1) control group (CTL), 55 mL of water; (2) PG, 106 mL of PG (100% PG, 448 calories); or (3) GLY, 108 mL of Koforin 80 (80% GL; 448 calories). Blood samples were taken before drenching and every hour after drenching for 24 h. Plasma concentration of glucose, BHB, nonesterified fatty acids, lactate, glycerol, and insulin were determined. Because there were no effects of treatments after 12 h in the first block, the data were analyzed for 12 h after drenching rather than 24 h. The plasma glucose concentration during the first 5 h after drenching was the highest in the GLY, BHB concentration was the lowest in the PG, and the nonesterified fatty acid levels were lower in the PG compared with the CTL ewes during the first 5 h after drenching. However, glucose concentration was higher in the PG ewes at 9, 11, and 12 h after drenching than in CTL or GLY ewes. The mean lactate concentration in plasma for 12 h was 2.5- and 1.9-fold higher in the PG compared with the CTL and GLY ewes, respectively, and except at 11 h after drenching, it was significantly higher at each time point. The insulin concentration was higher in the GLY than in both other groups at 2 to 5 h after drenching. These results suggest that during the first few hours after drenching the effect of PG was more effective in reducing the BHB concentration, whereas the GLY effect was more effective in enhancing glucose concentration. The increased concentration in lactate following PG treatment suggests that the PG contribution to gluconeogenesis is mediated through its metabolism to lactate. In contrast, the lack of an effect on lactate, and the faster increase in blood glucose in response to GLY suggest that GLY has a more advanced entry point to gluconeogenesis, which influences the immediate response in enhancing the glucose blood concentration.

Clinical, ultrasonographic, bacteriological, cytological and histological findings during uterine involution in ewes with pregnancy toxaemia and subsequent reproductive efficiency.

Objectives were to evaluate characteristics of uterine involution in ewes with pregnancy toxaemia during gestation and to study effects on subsequent reproductive performance. Pregnancy toxaemia was induced in ewes (A) by feeding an energy-deficient diet as confirmed by detecting ß-hydroxybutyrate concentrations in blood indicative of this disorder. There was also a control group (C). Animals were evaluated until the 60th day post-partum using clinical and ultrasonographic examinations. Vaginal swab samples and uterine biopsy tissue samples were collected for bacteriological and cytological examination; biopsy samples were prepared for histological examination. Ewes were subsequently placed with rams and reproductive performance was ascertained. Post-partum, during the ultrasonographic examination of the uterus, ewes of Group A had caruncle and uterine lumen diameters, as well as a uterine thickness greater than ewes of Group C. Post-partum uterine blood flow volume was greater in ewes of the A than C group. Neutrophils predominated in vaginal samples, with the neutrophil proportion being less in ewes of Group A than C. There were no differences in the uterine involution process between groups. During the subsequent reproductive season, all the ewes of Group A lambed normally and produced viable lambs. It is concluded that there were no adverse effects on subsequent reproductive performance of ewes previously affected with pregnancy toxaemia, when appropriate health management was performed.

Assisted reproductive technologies induce temporally specific placental defects and the preeclampsia risk marker sFLT1 in mouse.

Although widely used, assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. To elucidate their underlying causes, we have conducted a longitudinal analysis of placental development and fetal growth using a mouse model to investigate the effects of individual ART procedures: hormone stimulation, in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo culture and embryo transfer. We demonstrate that transfer of blastocysts naturally conceived without hormone stimulation and developed in vivo prior to transfer can impair early placentation and fetal growth, but this effect normalizes by term. In contrast, embryos cultured in vitro before transfer do not exhibit this compensation but rather display placental overgrowth, reduced fetal weight, reduced placental DNA methylation and increased levels of sFLT1, an anti-angiogenic protein implicated in causing the maternal symptoms of preeclampsia in humans. Increases in sFLT1 observed in this study suggest that IVF procedures could increase the risk for preeclampsia. Moreover, our results indicate that embryo culture is the major factor contributing to most placental abnormalities and should therefore be targeted for optimization.

Changes in cardiac biomarkers in goats naturally affected by pregnancy toxemia.

Pregnancy toxemia (PT) is considered one of the most common metabolic diseases with high impact on the production of small ruminants. The objective of this study was investigate possible myocardial damage in goats affected with PT by the determination of serum myocardial biomarkers CK-MB and cTnI. A total of 44 goats affected with PT, and 10 apparently healthy goats (control group or CG) were used in the study. In goats with PT, the serum concentrations of cTnI (0.43 ng/mL) were significantly higher than that in CG goats (0.06 ng/mL). Although CK-MB showed no significant difference, it was approximately three times higher in animals with PT. The serum concentrations of insulin were significantly lower in PT goats (5.03 ppmol/L) compared to CG goats (10.66 pmol/L). The serum concentrations of cortisol in PT goats (155.41 nmol/L) were significantly higher than that in CG goats (36.58 nmol/L). Results of this study indicate that a clinically significant myocardial damage might occur in goats affected with PT leading to significant elevations in values of cTnI and CK-MB. Therefore, these parameters could be used as a potential prognostic indicator in goats affected with this important disease.

Comparison of electrolyte and acid-base balances of Dorper breed ewes between single and twin pregnancies / Comparação dos equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido básico de ovelhas da raça Dorper entre gestação única e gemelar

During pregnancy there are modifications in the metabolic profile of sheep that may predispose to the occurrence of metabolic disorders, of which pregnancy toxaemia (PT) is highlighted. Blood gas analysis is detects changes in acid-base and electrolyte balance effectively. The objectives of this study were to study the acid-base and electrolyte balance of sheep during gestation and in the immediate peripartum (up to 48 hours postpartum), comparing single gestation with twins. Sixty healthy sheep of Dorper breed, two to five years old were raised in a semi-intensive system and were divided in two experimental groups: Group 1: 30 ewes, with ultrasonographic diagnosis of single fetus gestation; Group 2: 30 ewes, with ultrasonographic diagnosis of twin pregnancy. The experimental moments were defined as: MI-immediately after artificial insemination (control); MG30 - 30 days of gestation; MG90 - 90 days of gestation; MG120 - 120 days of gestation; MG130 - 130 days of gestation; MG140 - 140 days of gestation; MP - lambing; MPP1 - 24h postpartum; MPP2 - 48h postpartum. At all times 1mL of blood was collected per jugular vein puncture for blood gas evaluation in a portable equipament (I-Stat®). The pH, carbon dioxide pressure (PCO2), bicarbonate (HCO3-), base excess (BE), sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), ionized calcium (Ca+2), lactate, anion gap (AG) were mensured and strong ion difference (SID) were calculed. This work showed that there were changes in acid-base and electrolyte balance in pregnant ewes, due to the decrease in BE, HCO3-, TCO2 and increase of lactate and AG during gestation, but the pH remained normal and did not present any difference among moments in both groups. Comparing the groups, single-gestation ewes presented higher alkaline expenditure at delivery than twin-gestation, evidenced by lower levels of BE and HCO3-. Lower Na+ levels were observed in prepartum; drop in K+ values with advancing gestation; hyperchloremia and hypocalcemia during gestation according to the reference standards for species; decreased iCa+2 levels in the final third of gestation in both groups. It was concluded that the ewes of this study were healthy until the last moment analyzed (48h postpartum), although have shown greater consumption of the alkaline reserve in the peripartum, being more explicit in the single gestation animals. In addition, this situation can be physiological and result in increased energy demand during gestation, more exacerbated by peripartum.(AU)

Durante a gestação ocorrem modificações metabólicas nas ovelhas que podem predispor a ocorrência de transtornos metabólicos, dos quais se destaca a toxemia da prenhez (TP). A hemogasometria é um exame que detecta alterações nos equilíbrios ácido-básico e eletrolítico de forma eficaz. Os objetivos deste estudo foram estudar os equilíbrios ácido-básico e eletrolítico de ovelhas durante a gestação e no periparto imediato (até 48 horas pós-parto), comparando-se gestação única com gemelar. Foram utilizadas 60 ovelhas criadas em manejo semi-intensivo, hígidas, da raça Dorper, com dois a cinco anos de idade. Foram constituídos dois grupos experimentais: Grupo 1: 30 ovelhas, com diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de gestação de feto único; Grupo 2: 30 ovelhas, com diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de gestação gemelar. Os momentos experimentais foram definidos como: MI - imediatamente após a inseminação artificial (controle); MG30 - 30 dias de gestação; MG90 - 90 dias de gestação; MG120 - 120 dias de gestação; MG130 - 130 dias de gestação; MG140 - 140 dias de gestação; MP - dia do parto; MPP1 - 24h pós-parto; MPP2 - 48h pós-parto. Em todos os momentos foi colhido 1mL de sangue por punção da veia jugular para avaliação hemogasométrica em aparelho portátil (I-Stat®). Foram analisados os parâmetros: pH, pressão de dióxido de carbono (PCO2), bicarbonato (HCO3-), excesso de bases (EB), sódio (Na+), potássio (K+), cloreto (Cl-), cálcio ionizado (iCa+2), lactato, ânion gap (AG) e diferença de íons fortes (SID). Este trabalho mostrou que houve mudanças nos equilíbrios ácido-básico e eletrolítico nas ovelhas prenhes, pela diminuição do EB, HCO3- e aumento do lactato e AG no decorrer da gestação, porém o pH se manteve dentro da normalidade e não apresentou diferença ao longo dos momentos em ambos os grupos. Comparando os grupos, as ovelhas de gestação única apresentaram maior consumo da reserva alcalina no momento do parto do que as de gestação gemelar, evidenciado menores níveis de EB e HCO3-. Foram observados níveis mais baixos de Na+ no pré-parto; queda dos valores de K+ com o avanço da gestação; hipercloremia e hipocalcemia durante a gestação segundo os padrões de referência para espécie e diminuição dos níveis de iCa+2 no terço final da gestação nas ovelhas de ambos os grupos. Concluiu-se que as ovelhas deste estudo apresentaram-se saudáveis até o último momento analisado (48h pós-parto), embora tenham mostrado maior consumo da reserva alcalina no periparto, sendo mais evidente nos animais de gestação única. Apesar disso, essa ocorrência pode ser considerada fisiológica e consequência do aumento da demanda energética durante a gestação, mais exacerbada no periparto.(AU)

Biochemical, endocrine, and histopathological profile of liver and kidneys of sheep with pregnancy toxemia / Perfil bioquímico, endócrino e histopatológico do fígado e rins de ovelhas com toxemia na prenhez

The objective of the present study was to characterize the biochemical, hormonal, and mineral profile, and histopathology of the liver and kidneys, related to the severity of natural cases of pregnancy toxemia (PT) in sheep. A total of 45 sheep with PT were analyzed at the "Clínica de Bovinos", Campus Garanhuns-UFRPE. The animals were submitted to clinical examination, followed by the collection of blood and urine. A necropsy was performed on thirteen animals that died and a histopathological examination was performed on samples of liver and kidneys. Increased creatinine, urea, glucose, fructosamine, non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, cortisol, chlorine, amylase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and folic acid were found, whereas insulin, potassium, and total and ionizable calcium presented low values for the species. Total protein, albumin, globulin, sodium, magnesium, and vitamin B12 remained within the normal range. In the macroscopic analysis of the liver, it was possible to observe an increase in organ and border size, yellowish coloration and parenchyma that varied from firm to friable. Vacuolation of the hepatocytes and renal tubular cells was observed. Metabolic disorders in sheep associated with hepatic and renal lesions are more apparent in overweight animals. With the greater impairment in hepatic and renal function, the clinical prognosis of animals with a high body score should be considered reserved.(AU)

Objetivou-se caracterizar o perfil bioquímico, hormonal, mineral e a histopatologia hepática e renal, relacionando com a severidade de casos naturais de toxemia da prenhez (TP) em ovelhas. Analisou-se 45 ovelhas na Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns-UFRPE, com TP. Foram submetidas ao exame clínico, seguido de coleta de sangue e urina. Treze animais que vieram a óbito foram necropsiados, nas amostras de fígado e rins realizou-se exame histopatológico. Revelou-se elevação de creatinina, ureia, glicose, frutosamina, ácidos graxos não esterificados, β-hidroxibutirato, cortisol, cloro, amilase, aspartato aminotransferase, gama glutamiltransferase e ácido fólico, enquanto insulina, potássio, cálcio total e ionizável apresentaram valores abaixo para os da espécie. A proteína total, albumina, globulina, sódio, magnésio e vitamina B12 mantiveram-se dentro da normalidade. Na análise macroscópica do fígado, pôde-se observar aumento de tamanho do órgão e dos bordos, coloração amarelada e parênquima que variava de firme a friável. Observou-se vacuolização dos hepatócitos e das células tubulares renais. Os transtornos metabólicos nas ovelhas associados às lesões hepáticas e renais são mais aparentes nos animais com sobrepeso. Com o maior comprometimento da função hepática e renal, o prognóstico clínico dos animais com escore corporal elevado há de ser considerado reservado.(AU)

Comparação dos parâmetros bioquímicos entre gestação única e gemelar de ovelhas da raça Dorper durante gestação, parto e pós-parto / Comparison of biochemical parameters between single and twin pregnancies of Dorper breed ewes during gestation, lambing and postpartum

Nas ovelhas, a demanda de nutrientes aumenta durante a gestação, especialmente nas últimas seis semanas, quando ocorre maior desenvolvimento do feto. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram estudar o perfil bioquímico de ovelhas durante a gestação e no periparto imediato, comparando-se gestação única com gemelar. Foram utilizadas 60 ovelhas, Dorper, divididas em dois grupos experimentais com base no diagnóstico de gestação ultrassonográfico: grupo 1: 30 ovelhas com feto único; grupo 2: 30 ovelhas com gestação gemelar. Em nove momentos de coleta, foram mensurados no soro sanguíneo: ureia, creatinina, proteína total (PT), albumina, globulina, aspartato aminotransferase (AST), gamaglutamiltransferase, fosfatase alcalina, colesterol e triglicérides. O peso vivo das ovelhas do G2 foi maior que do G1 em todos os momentos, inclusive quando estavam vazias. Houve diferença entre as ovelhas do G1 e do G2 nos valores de PT, albumina, AST e triglicérides. A partir de 120 dias de gestação, o perfil proteico se modificou, com menores níveis de ureia, PT, albumina e globulina, mostrando que a demanda metabólica se intensificou no último mês da gestação. Os níveis de colesterol e triglicérides diminuíram de 140 dias de gestação para o parto. Este trabalho mostrou que a gestação proporcionou mudanças significativas no metabolismo da ovelha, principalmente no terço final da gestação, quando há maior necessidade de acompanhamento para evitar a incidência de doenças metabólicas.(AU)

In sheep, nutrient demand increases during gestation, particularly in the last six weeks, when the fetuses develop. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the biochemical profile of ewes during pregnancy and in the immediate peripartum comparing single with twin pregnancies. Sixty ewes of Dorper breed were divided into two groups by pregnancy ultrasonographic diagnosis: 1 - 30 ewes with single fetus gestation; 2 - 30 ewes with twin pregnancy. In nine collection moments the following parameters were measured: urea, creatinine, total protein (TP), albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and triglycerides. The weight of G2 sheep was higher than G1 since they were empty. There were differences in G1 and G2 sheep metabolism in TP, Albumin, AST and Triglycerides. From 120 days of pregnancy, the protein profile changed, with lower levels of urea, TP, albumin and globulin, showing that the metabolic demand intensified in the last month of pregnancy. The levels of cholesterol and triglycerides decreased from 140 days of pregnancy to lambing day. This study showed that gestation provided significant changes in the ewe's metabolism, especially in the final third of gestation, when there is a greater need to follow the animals to avoid the incidence of metabolic diseases.(AU)

Comparação de métodos para avaliação de beta-hidroxibutirato em ovelhas / Comparison of methods for evaluation of beta-hydroxybutyrate in ewes

Atualmente o uso de sensores portáteis para mensuração de corpos cetônicos está padronizado e difundido na rotina clínica, contudo estudos em ovinos são escassos. Assim, a presente pesquisa objetivou avaliar a acurácia dos sensores portáteis de uso humano e de uso veterinário para a determinação de beta-hidroxibutirato (BHB) em ovelhas no final da gestação e no pós-parto recente. Foram utilizadas 37 amostras de sangue provenientes de nove ovelhas mestiças Corriedale. A determinação bioquímica de BHB no soro, considerada como o padrão-ouro, foi realizada utilizando-se metodologia enzimática colorimétrica. A média obtida na bioquímica sérica foi de 0,497mmol/L; no sensor de uso humano, a média foi igual a 0,537mmol/L, enquanto no sensor de uso veterinário foi de 0,751mmol/L. Foi verificada alta correlação entre o dosímetro de uso humano e o padrão-ouro (r=0,93, P<0,001). A média do aparelho de uso veterinário diferiu das demais (51%; P<0,05), superestimando os resultados em ovelhas. As medições obtidas no aparelho veterinário também apresentaram menor precisão e veracidade. Concluiu-se que o sensor portátil de uso humano é mais acurado e mais preciso no diagnóstico precoce de toxemia da gestação em ovelhas.

Currently the use of portable sensors for measuring ketone bodies is standardized and diffused in the clinical routine, however, studies in sheep are scarce. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the human portable sensor and the veterinary portable sensor for the determination of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in sheep at the end of gestation and postpartum. We used 37 samples of blood from nine crossbred Corriedale sheep. Biochemical determination of serum BHB, considered gold standard, was performed using colorimetric enzymatic methodology. The mean serum biochemistry was 0.497mmol/L, in the human sensor the mean was 0.537mmol/L, while in the veterinary sensor it was 0.751mmol/L. A high correlation was verified between the dosimeter for human use and the gold standard (r= 0.93, P< 0.001). The mean of the veterinary apparatus differed from the others, being 51% (P< 0,05), higher than the standard, that is, it was less accurate and had lower veracity, overestimating the results in sheep. It was concluded that the portable sensor for human use is more accurate and accurate in the early diagnosis of toxemia of pregnancy in sheep.

Evaluation of prognostic indicators for goats with pregnancy toxemia.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate potential prognostic indicators for does with pregnancy toxemia (PT) and their offspring. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. ANIMALS: 56 does. PROCEDURES: Medical records were searched to identify does with PT. Signalment, history, clinical signs, examination findings, treatments, number of offspring present, and duration of hospitalization for does as well as outcome (death vs survival to hospital discharge) for does and their kids were recorded. Variables of interest were examined for association with outcome by contingency table analyses. RESULTS: Boer goats were overrepresented, compared with the general population of goats for the facility in the last year of the study. Most (15/36) does had appropriate body condition scores. All pregnancies involved twins (11/56), triplets (37), or quadruplets (7). Neutrophilia (26/26) and hyperglycemia (32/40) were common in does. Most (39/56) does survived to hospital discharge. Does with high BUN concentration and those with serum bicarbonate concentration < 15 mEq/L were more likely to die than does without these findings. Forty-nine does survived to delivery of offspring; survival to discharge for these does was positively associated with outcome of their offspring. Among offspring of dams that survived to their delivery, twins had a higher survival rate than quadruplets. Death was more likely for offspring delivered by cesarean section than for those delivered vaginally. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggested Boers were more likely to develop PT than goats of other breeds in the population examined at the study hospital. In contrast with other studies, hyperglycemia was common in affected does. Further research is needed to confirm associations with outcome identified in this study.