Cardiac mitochondrial metabolism during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

The goal of the present study was to characterize changes in mitochondrial respiration in the maternal heart during pregnancy and after birth. Timed pregnancy studies were performed in 12-wk-old female FVB/NJ mice, and cardiac mitochondria were isolated from the following groups of mice: nonpregnant (NP), midpregnancy (MP), late pregnancy (LP), and 1-wk postbirth (PB). Similar to our previous studies, we observed increased heart size during all stages of pregnancy (e.g., MP and LP) and postbirth (e.g., PB) compared with NP mice. Differential cardiac gene and protein expression analyses revealed changes in several mitochondrial transcripts at LP and PB, including several mitochondrial complex subunits and members of the Slc family, important for mitochondrial substrate transport. Respirometry revealed that pyruvate- and glutamate-supported state 3 respiration was significantly higher in PB vs. LP mitochondria, with respiratory control ratio (RCR) values higher in PB mitochondria. In addition, we found that PB mitochondria respired more avidly when given 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-OHB) than mitochondria from NP, MP, and LP hearts, with no differences in RCR. These increases in respiration in PB hearts occurred independent of changes in mitochondrial yield but were associated with higher abundance of 3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1. Collectively, these findings suggest that, after birth, maternal cardiac mitochondria have an increased capacity to use 3-OHB, pyruvate, and glutamate as energy sources; however, increases in mitochondrial efficiency in the postpartum heart appear limited to carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Few studies have detailed the physiological adaptations that occur in the maternal heart. We and others have shown that pregnancy-induced cardiac growth is associated with significant changes in cardiac metabolism. Here, we examined mitochondrial respiration and substrate preference in isolated mitochondria from the maternal heart. We show that following birth, cardiac mitochondria are "primed" to respire on carbohydrate, amino acid, and ketone bodies. However, heightened respiratory efficiency is observed only with carbohydrate and amino acid sources. These results suggest that significant changes in mitochondrial respiration occur in the maternal heart in the postpartum period.

Wheel Running During Pregnancy Alleviates Anxiety-and Depression-Like Behaviors During the Postpartum Period in Mice: The Roles of NLRP3 Neuroinflammasome Activation, Prolactin, and the Prolactin Receptor in the Hippocampus.

Despite the increase in the prevalence of postpartum depression among maternal disorder, its treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. Studies have shown that exercise can reduce postpartum depressive episodes in the mother, but the effects of exercise during pregnancy on maternal behavior and the potential mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. From the second day of pregnancy to the day of birth, dams exercised for 1 h a day by running on a controlled wheel. The maternal behaviors of the dams were assessed on postpartum day 2 to postpartum day 8. Chronic restraint stress was applied from postpartum day 2 to day 12. Blood was collected on postpartum days 3 and 8, then subjected to ELISA to determine the serum concentration of prolactin. The weight of each dam and the food intake were recorded. Anxiety- and depression-like behavioral tests were conducted, and hippocampal neuroinflammation and prolactin receptor levels were measured. The dams exhibited elevated levels of anxiety and depression, decreased serum prolactin levels, decreased prolactin receptor expression, and activation of NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation in the hippocampus following the induction of postpartum chronic restraint stress, which were reversed with controlled wheel running during pregnancy. Overall, the findings of this study revealed that the preventive effects of exercise during pregnancy on postpartum anxiety-and depression-like behaviors were accompanied by increased serum prolactin levels, hippocampal prolactin receptor expression and hippocampal NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation.

Effect of rumen-protected choline on dairy cow metabolism, immunity, lactation performance, and vaginal discharge microbiome.

Rumen-protected choline (RPC) promotes benefits in milk production, immunity, and health in dairy cows by optimizing lipid metabolism during transition period management and early lactation. However, the RPC success in dairy cows depends on choline bioavailability, which is affected by the type of protection used in rumen-protected choline. Therefore, our objectives were to determine the effects of a novel RPC on dry matter intake (DMI), identify markers of metabolism and immunity, and evaluate lactation performance. Dry Holstein (n = 48) cows at 245 ± 3 d of gestation were blocked by parity and assigned to control or RPC treatment within each block. Cows enrolled in the RPC treatment received 15 g/d of CholiGEM (Kemin Industries, Cavriago RE, Italy) from 21 d prepartum and 30 g/d of CholiGEM from calving to 21 d postpartum. During the transition period, DMI was measured daily, and blood was sampled weekly for energy-related metabolites such as ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucose, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), as well as immune function markers such as haptoglobin (Hp) and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LPB). Vaginal discharge samples were collected at the calving and 7 d postpartum and stored in microcentrifuge tubes at -80°C until 16S rRNA sequencing. The main responses of body condition score, body weight, DMI, milk yield, milk components, and immune function markers were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with the effects of treatment, time, parity, and relevant covariates added to the models. The relative abundance of microbiome α-diversity was evaluated by 3 indexes (Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson) and ß-diversity by principal coordinate analysis and permutational multivariate ANOVA. We found no differences in DMI in the pre- and postpartum periods. Cows fed RPC increased the yields of energy- and 3.5% fat-corrected milk and fat yield in primiparous and multiparous cows, with an interaction between treatment and parity for these lactation variables. However, we found no differences in milk protein and lactose up to 150 DIM between treatments. Glucose, NEFA, and BHB had no differences between the treatments. However, RPC decreased BHB numerically (control = 1.07 ± 0.13 vs. RPC = 0.63 ± 0.13) in multiparous on the third week postpartum and tended to reduce the incidence of subclinical ketosis (12.7% vs. 4.2%). No effects for Hp and LPB were found in cows fed RPC. Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson indexes were lower at calving in the RPC treatment than in the Control. However, no differences were found 7 d later for Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson indexes. The vaginal discharge microbiome was altered in cows fed RPC at 7 d postpartum. Fusobacterium, a common pathogen associated with metritis, was reduced in cows fed RPC. Rumen-protected choline enhanced lactation performance and health and altered the vaginal discharge microbiome which is a potential proxy for uterine healthy in dairy cows. The current study's findings corroborate that RPC is a tool to support adaptation to lactation and shed light on opportunities for further research in reproductive health.

[Cuiru Keli Improves Postpartum Hypogalactia in Rats Through Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 2-Wnt/ß-catenin Signaling Pathway]. / 催乳颗粒通过分泌Frizzledç›¸å ³è›‹ç™½2-Wnt/ß-cateninä¿¡å·é€šè·¯æ”¹å–„å¤§é¼ äº§åŽç¼ºä¹³.

Objective: Based on the secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2)-Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway, this study explored the effect and mechanism of Cuiru Keli (CRKL) in the treatment of postpartum hypogalactia. Methods: A rat model of postpartum hypogalactia was established by gavaging 2 mL of 1.6 mg/mL bromocriptine mesylate to female rats on the third day after delivery. Female rats with a delivery time difference of less than 48 hours were selected and randomly assigned to 7 groups, including a normal group (without any modeling or medication), a model group, a CRKL low-dose group of model group model rats receiving CRKL at the dose of 3 g/kg, a CRKL medium-dose group of model rats receiving CRKL at the dose of 6 g/kg, a CRKL high-dose group of model rats receiving CRKL at the dose of 9 g/kg, a positive drug group of model rats receiving domperidone at the dose of 3 mg/kg, and a negative control (NC) group of model rats receiving normal saline. Each group contained 6 rats. Except for the normal and model groups, the remaining 5 groups were continuously administered with the respective intervention drugs at the specified doses by gavage once a day for 10 days. Changes in the total litter mass of the offspring in the 7 groups within 10 days were measured, and HE staining was performed to identify pathological changes in the mammary tissue (MT). Six groups of rats (excluding the positive control group) were used to observe the pathological changes of eosinophils in pituitary tissue. ELISA was performed to determine the content of prolactin (PRL) in serum, immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the expression of prolactin receptor (PRLR) in MT, and RT-qPCR was used to determine the mRNA expression of genes related to lactation in MT. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to study the therapeutic effect and mechanism of CRKL on postpartum hypogalactia, particularly whether it acted through the SFRP2-Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway. The mechanism of CRKL treatment was further validated by detecting mRNA (RT-qPCR) and protein expression (Western blot) of related pathway genes. Cell experiments were conducted using primary culture rat mammary epithelial cells (RMEC) from rat MT. RMEC were divided into four groups, including a normal group (primary culture RMEC, untreated), SFRP2 overexpression group (primary cultured RMEC treated with SFRP2 overexpression vector), SFRP2 overexpression+CRKL group (receiving treatment for SFRP2 overexpression group plus 10% drug-containing serum), and negative control group (primary culture RMEC treated with empty vector). The effect of CRKL on the expression of lactation-related genes FASN, CSN2, and GLUT1 mRNA after SFRP2 overexpression was detected by RT-qPCR. Results: In this study, CRKL was administered at a dose of 3 g/kg in the CRKL low-dose group, 6 g/kg in the medium-dose group, and 9 g/kg in the high-dose group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the model group, CRKL at all doses significantly increased the total litter weight gain of the offsprings within 10 days (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and effectively increased lactation (P<0.01), the area of mammary lobules, and the size and filling of acinar cavities. CRKL at all doses also increased the number of eosinophils that secreted PRL in the pituitary gland of the postpartum hypogalactia rat model, and increased the content of PRL in the serum (P<0.05 or P<0.01). CRKL promoted the secretion and expression of PRL in postpartum hypogalactic model rats. In addition, it significantly promoted the expression of genes related to milk fat, milk protein, and lactose synthesis in MT (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Network pharmacology predicted that the Wnt signaling pathway might be a key pathway for CRKL in treating postpartum hypogalactia. The molecular docking results showed that related chemical components in CRKL had good binding ability with CCND1 and SFRP2. Compared with the model group, CRKL at all doses inhibited the expression of SFRP2 gene in vivo (P<0.01) and activated the mRNA and protein expression of CCND1 and c-Myc in the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway in MT (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Cell experiments showed that, compared to the normal group, SFRP2 overexpression reduced the mRNA expression of milk synthesis-related genes FASN, CSN2, and GLUT1 in RMEC (P<0.01). The CCK8 results indicated that 10% of the drug-containing serum was the effective concentration administered to cells (P<0.01). After administering drug-containing serum, the expression of the lactation-related genes FASN, CSN2, and GLUT1 were up-regulated (compared with the SFRP2 overexpression group, P<0.01). Conclusion: CRKL alleviates postpartum hypogalactia through the SFRP2-Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway. SFRP2 might be a potential new target for the diagnosis and treatment of postpartum hypogalactia. This reveals a new mechanism of CRKL in treating postpartum hypogalactia and promotes its clinical application.

Effect of shortening the dry period on colostrum and milk quality, blood parameters and some reproductive parameters in high-producing Holstein cows of different body condition score.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of shortening the dry period in high-yielding cows of different body condition scores (BCS). We report colostrum and milk quality, some serum metabolites, BCS changes, and some reproductive parameters with measurements being made over the first two months of lactation. Cows were grouped based on the length of the dry period (normal: about 50 d and short: about 28 d) and BCS (moderate: 2.75 to 3.5 and high ≥ 3.5). Short dry period decreased colostrum volume and, in combination with high BCS only, caused a decrease in milk production. Short dry period moderate BCS cows had the highest serum insulin concentration on day 14 after calving and highest glucose concentration on day 28, but neither differed significantly when measured over the whole period. By contrast, short dry period cows had significantly lower concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate measured over the whole period. Post-partum loss of BCS was less in short and especially so in the short, moderate BCS group. Following a synchronization protocol at 35 d postpartum. The cows with a short dry period and moderate BCS had lower open days, days to first postpartum estrus and services per conception. It was concluded that short dry periods and moderate BCS had a positive influence on serum metabolites, BCS changes and reproductive parameters.

Severe body condition loss lowers hepatic output of IGF1 with adverse effects on the dominant follicle in dairy cows.

The severe loss of body condition score (BCS) during the early lactation period has been associated with infertility in cows. However, the mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of BCS loss on liver health, and ovarian functions in cows during early lactation. Retrospectively multiparous cows from two farms were categorized based on units of BCS (1-5 scale) loss as Moderate (MOD, <0.75 units; n = 11) or Severe (SEV, ≥0.75 units; n = 9) loss groups. From Weeks -3 to 7, relative to calving, MOD and SEV cows lost on average 0.4 and 1.0-unit BCS, respectively. All data except hepatic transcriptomes were analyzed with PROC MIXED procedure of SAS. The plasma concentration of non-esterified fatty acids at Week 0 and 1, ß-hydroxy butyrate at Week 1, and γ-glutamyl transferase at Weeks 1 and 7 relative to calving were higher in SEV cows. Hepatic transcriptome analysis showed that 1 186 genes were differentially expressed in SEV (n = 3) compared to MOD (n = 3) cows at Week 7 after calving. Pathway analysis revealed that significant DEGs in SEV cows enriched in lipid metabolisms including, lipid metabolic process, ether lipid metabolism, fatty acid beta-oxidation, fatty acid biosynthetic process, fatty acid metabolic process, fat digestion and absorption, linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism. The impaired liver function in SEV cows was associated with 1.5-fold reduction of hepatic IGF1 gene expression and lower serum IGF1 concentrations. At the ovarian level, SEV cows had lower IGF1 concentration in the follicular fluid of the dominant follicle of the synchronized follicular wave compared to that of MOD cows at 7 weeks after calving. Further, the follicular fluid concentration of estradiol-17ß was lower in SEV cows along with lower transcript abundance of genes from granulosa cells associated with dominant follicle competence, including CYP19A1, NR5A2, IGF1, and LHCGR. These data show that SEV loss of BCS during early lactation leading up to the planned start of breeding is associated with liver dysfunction, including lower IGF1 secretion, and impaired function of the dominant follicle in the ovary.

Effect of feeding sodium butyrate to beef female cows during pre- and post-partum period on concentrations of glucagon-like peptides in plasma and colostrum.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding beef cows with sodium butyrate during the late pregnancy and early post-partum periods on concentrations of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 and 2 in plasma, colostrum, and transition milk. Twelve Japanese Black female cows were fed concentrate feed without (CON; n = 6) or with (BUTY; n = 6) sodium butyrate supplementation at 1.1% of dietary dry matter from -60 d relative to the expected parturition date to 4 d after parturition. Plasma total cholesterol concentration was higher for the BUTY than for the CON (P = 0.04). In addition, plasma GLP-1 concentration was higher for the BUTY than for the CON at 3 d after calving (P < 0.05). This study showed for the first time that GLP-1 is present in the colostrum of Japanese Black cows at higher concentrations as compared to in plasma (P < 0.01). On the other hand, no treatment effect was observed for concentrations of metabolite and hormone in colostrum and transition milk. In summary, feeding beef cows with sodium butyrate during the late gestation and early post-partum period likely increases plasma GLP-1 concentrations post-partum without affecting the components of colostrum and transition milk.

Postpartum development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in a lean mouse model of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with increased postpartum risk for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). GDM-related MASLD predisposes to advanced liver disease, necessitating a better understanding of its development in GDM. This preclinical study evaluated the MASLD development in a lean GDM mouse model with impaired insulin secretion capacity. Lean GDM was induced by short-term 60% high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin injections (60 mg/kg for 3 days) before mating in C57BL/6N mice. The control dams received only high-fat diet or low-fat diet. Glucose homeostasis was assessed during pregnancy and postpartum, whereas MASLD was assessed on postpartum day 30 (PP30). GDM dams exhibited a transient hyperglycemic phenotype during pregnancy, with hyperglycaemia reappearing after lactation. Lower insulin levels and impaired glucose-induced insulin response were observed in GDM mice during pregnancy and postpartum. At PP30, GDM dams displayed higher hepatic triglyceride content compared controls, along with increased MAS (MASLD) activity scores, indicating lipid accumulation, inflammation, and cell turnover indices. Additionally, at PP30, GDM dams showed elevated plasma liver injury markers. Given the absence of obesity in this double-hit GDM model, the results clearly indicate that impaired insulin secretion driven pregnancy hyperglycaemia has a distinct contribution to the development of postpartum MASLD.

The cortisol awakening response is blunted in healthy women early postpartum.

INTRODUCTION: The dynamic capacity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis supports healthy adaptions to stress and play a key role in maintaining mental health. Perinatal adaptations in the HPA-axis dynamics in terms of the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR), may be involved in dysregulation of perinatal mental health. We aimed to determine if CAR and absolute evening cortisol early postpartum differed from non-perinatal women and evaluate the association between the CAR and maternal mental well-being. METHODS: The CAR was computed as the area under the curve with respect to increase from baseline from serial home-sampling of saliva across 0-60 minutes from awakening. We evaluated differences in CAR and absolute evening cortisol between postpartum women (N=50, mean postpartum days: 38, SD: ±11) and non-perinatal women (N=91) in a multiple linear regression model. We also evaluated the association between CAR and maternal mental well-being in a multiple linear regression model. RESULTS: We found that healthy postpartum women had a blunted CAR (p<0.001) corresponding to 84% reduction and 80% lower absolute evening cortisol (p<0.001) relative to non-perinatal healthy women. In the postpartum group, there was a trend-level association between lower CAR and higher scores on the WHO Well-Being Index (WHO-5) (p=0.048) and lower Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores (p=0.04). CONCLUSION: Our data emphasize the unique hormonal landscape during the postpartum period in terms of blunted CAR and lower absolute evening cortisol in healthy women early postpartum compared to non-perinatal. Our findings show a potential association between a reduced CAR and improved mental well-being during early motherhood, which suggests that reduced CAR might reflect healthy adjustment to early motherhood.

Analysis of the relationship between energy balance and properties of rumen fermentation of primiparous dairy cows during the perinatal period.

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced in the rumen are key factors affecting dairy cows' energy balance (EB). This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the effects of SCFAs production on EB in dairy cows. Primiparous dairy cows were divided into high non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA; group H) and low NEFA (group L) groups based on their blood NEFA levels at week 3 postpartum, which served as an indicator of EB. The amounts of SCFAs produced in the rumen, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate (SCFAsP), were calculated using the predicted rumen volume. Because there were no differences between the groups in SCFAsP/dry matter intake, whereas 4% fat-corrected milk (FCM)/SCFAsP was significantly higher in group H, it was suggested that more body fat was mobilized for milk production in group H. However, group L, which showed better EB, had propionate dominant and lower FCM/SCFAsP and milk energy/SCFAs energy at 3 and 7 weeks postpartum, indicating that group L had a better energy supply for milk production. These results suggest that SCFAsP produced by rumen fermentation and the composition of SCFAs in the rumen affect milk production and EB.

Maternal probiotic Lactocaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 treatment alters postpartum anxiety, cortical monoamines, and the gut microbiome.

Peripartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect 15-20% of peripartum women and are well known to disrupt infant caregiving. A recent study in humans reported that anxiety and depressive symptoms were alleviated by peripartum treatment with the probiotic, Lactocaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001. The current study determined the effects of chronic Lactocaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 (HN001) treatment on postpartum affective and caregiving behaviors in a laboratory rodent model. Female rats were given probiotic overnight in their drinking water, or untreated water, from the first day of pregnancy through postpartum day 10. To determine whether the HN001 effects were influenced by a background of stress, half the females underwent chronic variable pregnancy stress and the other half remained undisturbed. The results revealed that, even without pregnancy stress, HN001 reduced postpartum anxiety-related behavior, increased variability in behavioral fragmentation when dams interacted with pups, increased time away from pups, and decreased prefrontal cortex norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT). Probiotic plus stress consistently reduced the latency to float in the forced swim test, increased DA and 5-HT turnovers in the prefrontal cortex, increased hippocampal NE, and reduced hypothalamic DA. Fecal microbe alpha and beta diversities were lower postpartum than prepartum, which was prevented by the probiotic treatment and/or stress. Across the entire sample lower postpartum anxiety behavior was associated with lower fecal Bacteroides dorei. This study reveals novel information about how L. rhamnosus HN001 influences postpartum behavior and microbiota-gut-brain physiology in female laboratory rats, with implications for probiotic supplement use by pregnant and postpartum women.

Retenção de peso pós-parto em mulheres assistidas no serviço público de saúde: estudo de coorte / Retención de peso posparto en mujeres asistidas en el servicio de salud pública: estudio de cohorte / Postpartum weight retention in women assisted in the public health service: cohort study

Objetivo analisar a retenção de peso pós-parto em mulheres assistidas no serviço público de saúde em um município do Sul do Brasil. Método estudo de coorte realizado com 85 puérperas. Dados socioeconômicos, obstétricos, antropométricos, hábitos alimentares, atividade física, amamentação e fatores emocionais foram coletados mediante entrevista em dois momentos: no hospital, no puerpério imediato; e no domicílio, seis meses após o parto. Na análise, utilizou-se estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados a incidência da retenção de peso pós-parto maior que 1 kg foi de 54,1%, associada ao ganho de peso gestacional excessivo (68,4%), estado nutricional eutrófico/baixo peso no início da gestação (65,8%) e excesso de peso seis meses pós-parto (61,8%). Mulheres que não amamentaram exclusivamente até seis meses retiveram mais peso. A prevalência de insatisfação corporal foi alta (82,4%). Conclusão os fatores de risco para retenção de peso pós-parto foram estado nutricional eutrófico pré-gestacional e ganho de peso excessivo na gestação

Objetivo analizar la retención de peso posparto en mujeres atendidas en el servicio público de salud en un municipio del sur de Brasil. Método estudio de cohorte realizado con 85 puérperas. Los datos socioeconómicos, obstétricos, antropométricos, hábitos alimenticios, actividad física, lactancia materna y factores emocionales fueron recolectados a través de entrevistas en dos momentos: en el hospital, en el puerperio inmediato; y en casa, seis meses después del parto. En el análisis se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial Resultados la incidencia de retención de peso posparto mayor de 1 kg fue de 54,1%, asociada a aumento excesivo de peso gestacional (68,4%), estado nutricional eutrófico/bajo peso al inicio del embarazo (65,8%) y sobrepeso seis meses postparto (61,8%). Las mujeres que no amamantaron exclusivamente hasta seis meses retuvieron más peso. La prevalencia de insatisfacción corporal fue alta (82,4%). Conclusión los factores de riesgo para la retención de peso posparto fueron el estado nutricional eutrófico pre-gestacional y el aumento de peso excesivo durante el embarazo.

Objective to analyze postpartum weight retention in women assisted in the public health service in a municipality in southern Brazil. Method cohort study conducted with 85 puerperal women. Socioeconomic, obstetric, anthropometric data, eating habits, physical activity, breastfeeding and emotional factors were collected through interviews in two moments: in the hospital, in the immediate puerperium; and at home, six months after delivery. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis. Results the incidence of postpartum weight retention greater than 1 kg was 54.1%, associated with excessive gestational weight gain (68.4%), eutrophic nutritional status/low weight at the beginning of pregnancy (65.8%) and overweight six months postpartum (61.8%). Women who did not breastfeed exclusively up to six months retained more weight. The prevalence of body dissatisfaction was high (82.4%). Conclusion the risk factors for postpartum weight retention were pre-gestational eutrophic nutritional status and excessive weight gain during pregnancy.

Efeito metafilático do zinco injetável sobre parâmetros metabólicos e oxidativos de ovelhas no pós-parto imediato / Metaphylactic effect of injectable zinc on metabolic and oxidative parameters of sheep in the immediate postpartum

The aim of this study was to evaluate a new source of injectable organic zinc (zinc edetate) on the energy and oxidative profile in sheep during the immediate postpartum period. Twenty-six Texel breed animals were previously identified and divided into two experimental groups: the treated group (TG; n= 13) that comprised the animals that received a subcutaneous (SC) injection of 100 mg of zinc edetate (2 mL) fifteen days before the parturition expected date and the control group (CG; n=13) that comprised the animals that received 2mL of physiological solution at the same date of TG. Blood samples were collected on the parturition day for the assessment of serum fructosamine, cholesterol and triglycerides, insulin-like growth factor type 1 (IGF-1), the oxidative stress index (OSi) and blood zinc concentration. In addition to these parameters, the measurement of zinc was made in food given to the animals. There was no difference in metabolic parameters and OSi between the experimental groups (P>0.05), as well as in blood zinc concentrations (P>0.05). The parenteral zinc edentate does not change the energy and oxidative profile of sheep in immediate postpartum.(AU)

Effects of perinatal period administration of clomiphene citrate in sexual behavior, organ weights and hormone concentration of Wistar male and female rats / Efeito da administração do citrato de clomifeno durante o período perinatal no comportamento sexual, peso dos órgãos e concentração hormonal de ratos Wistar machos e fêmeas

The effects of prenatal exposure to clomiphene citrate in sexual behavior, organ weight and hormone concentrations of male and female rats was evaluated. The animals received four doses of clomiphene citrate 2 mg/mL each during the prenatal period (21 days of gestation DG21) on days 1 (DN1), 2 (DN2) and 3 (DN3) after the birth of the puppies. The treatment led to the development of polycystic ovaries in 70% of the females, masculinization of female sexual behavior and changes in sexual behavior of males evidenced by the reduction in the number of ejaculations. In regards to hormone levels, a decrease in the FSH levels in male offspring was observed. It was concluded that clomiphene citrate interferes with the reproductive capacity of male and female rats and female sexual orientation when prenatally administered.

Foram investigados os efeitos da exposição perinatal ao citrato de clomifeno no comportamento sexual, peso dos órgãos e concentração hormonal de ratos machos e fêmeas. Os animais receberam quatro doses de 2 mg/mL de citrato de clomifeno, no período perinatal (21 dias de gestação DG21), nos dias 1 (DN1), 2 (DN2) e 3 (DN3) após o nascimento dos filhotes. O tratamento causou desenvolvimento de ovário policístico em 70% das fêmeas, masculinização do comportamento sexual das fêmeas e alteração do comportamento sexual dos machos evidenciado pela redução no número de ejaculações. Em relação aos níveis hormonais, observou-se diminuição de FSH na prole masculina. Concluiu-se que o citrato de clomifeno interfere na capacidade reprodutiva de ratos machos e fêmeas, e na orientação sexual de fêmeas, quando administrado perinatalmente.

Avaliação do perfil metabólico de vacas da raça Holandesa durante o período de transição / Evaluation of the metabolic profile of Holstein cows during the transition period

O período de transição é um momento de grande desafio para vacas de aptidão leiteira, uma vez que, a maioria dos problemas metabólicos ocorre nesta fase podendo prejudicar toda a expectativa de produção durante a lactação, resultando em impacto econômico significativo para fazendas de produção de leite. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o perfil metabólico de vacas da raça Holandesa durante o período de transição. Doze vacas Holandesas foram avaliadas, três semanas pré-parto até três semanas pós-parto, em sistema free-stall, localizado em Inhaúma, Minas Gerais, no período de outubro a dezembro de 2012. Avaliou-se o perfil metabólico através da concentração sérica de ácidos graxos não esterificados (AGNE), beta hidroxibutirato (BHBA), colesterol (COLES), proteína total (PT), albumina (ALB), cálcio, fósforo, magnésio bem como a atividade sérica das enzimas aspartato transaminase (AST) e lactato desidrogenase (LDH). As concentrações séricas de AGNE e BHBA foram diferentes entre o pré-parto e pós-parto (p<0,05). Observou-se diminuição na concentração de COLES com a aproximação do parto com posterior aumento (p<0,05). As concentrações séricas dos minerais, PT e ALB não apresentaram diferenças (p>0,05) no período avaliado. A atividade enzimática de AST e LDH foram maiores no período pós-parto (p<0,05). A avaliação do perfil metabólico é uma importante ferramenta de monitoramento e, na situação estudada, demonstrou alterações do perfil energético das vacas entre os períodos pré e pós-parto, relacionadas provavelmente a diminuição da ingestão de alimentos. A luz dos resultados do perfil metabólico, o rebanho avaliado possui pequeno risco para a ocorrência de enfermidades no pós-parto relacionadas ao período de transição.

The transition period is a time of great challenge for dairy cows, since most metabolic problems occur at this time and can compromise the entire lactation, resulting in a significant economic loss to commercial farms. This study evaluated the metabolic profile of dairy cows during the transition period. Twelve Holstein cows between three weeks pre-calving until three weeks postpartum was used in this study. They remained in a free-stall system, located in Inhaúma, Minas Gerais, during October to December 2012. The metabolic profile were composed by non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), cholesterol (COLES), total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), calcium, phosphorus, magnesium as well as the activity serum enzymes aspartate transaminase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). There were differences in serum NEFA and BHBA between prepartum and postpartum (p<0.05). Observed a decrease in the concentration of COLES with the approaching birth with subsequent increase (p<0.05). Serum concentrations of minerals, PT and ALB did not differ (p>0.05). The enzymatic activity of AST and LDH were higher in the postpartum period (p<0.05). The evaluation of the metabolic profile is an important monitoring tool. Changes in the metabolic profile of cows during the transition period are motivated by energetic changing. Cows that were evaluated have a small risk of developing postpartum diseases related to the transition period.

Perfil metabólico de vacas mestiças leiteiras com baixo escore de condição corporal no periparto / Metabolic profile in crossbred dairy cows with low body condition score in the peripartum period

Objetivou-se avaliar o perfil metabólico energético, proteico e enzimático de vacas mestiças leiteiras com baixo escore de condição corporal (ECC) no periparto. Foram colhidas amostras sanguíneas uma semana antes do parto, no dia do parto, e aos sete, 14, 21, 28 e 43 dias pós-parto (DPP) de 36 animais, com média de ECC de 2,6±0,5, com eutocia e pós-parto fisiológico e sem tratamentos nesta fase. Analisaram-se as concentrações séricas de proteínas totais, albumina e globulinas para o perfil protéico; AST, ALT, GGT e fosfatase alcalina para o perfil enzimático; ácidos graxos não-esterificados (NEFA), β-hidroxibutirato (BHBA), triglicerídeos, colesterol e lipoproteínas (VLDL, HDL e LDL) para o perfil energético. As vacas apresentaram no pré-parto hipoproteinemia, hipoalbuminemia, hipocolesterolemia e aumento das enzimas GGT e AST. No dia do parto houve lipólise e hipoglobulinemia. Concluiu-se que vacas mestiças leiteiras com baixo ECC apresentam balanço energético negativo, hipoproteinemia com hipoalbuminemia e lesão hepática no periparto, com restabelecimento aos 30 DPP, mas não recuperam sua condição corporal até o final do puerpério.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the metabolic profile of protein, energy and enzyme in crossbred dairy cows with low body condition score (BCS) in the peripartum period. Blood samples were collected from 36 animals with 2.6±0.5 BCS, eutocia, physiological postpartum and without any treatment, on following days: one week before calving, calving and 7, 14, 21, 28 and 43 days in milk (DIM). It was evaluated serum total protein, albumin and globulins for protein profile; AST, ALT, GGT and alkaline phosphatase for mineral profile; nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), triglycerides, cholesterol and lipoproteins (VLDL, HDL and LDL) for energy profile. Crossbred dairy cows had hypoproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia, hypocholesterolemia and increased that both enzymes AST and GGT at the precalving. There were lipolysis and hypoglobulinemia at parturition. It was concluded that crossbred dairy cows with low BCS have negative energy balance, hypoproteinemia with hypoalbuminemia and hepatic injury in the peripartum. This condition is restored at 30 DIM, but there is no recovery of the body condition by the end of puerperium.

Consulta puerperal: o que leva as mulheres a buscarem essa assistência / Post-partum consultation: what leads women to seek this care

O estudo objetivou identificar motivos que favorecem o retorno de mulheres à consulta pós-parto. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva e exploratória, de natureza qualitativa, desenvolvida com 15 mulheres que realizaram o acompanhamento pré-natal em uma Unidade de Saúde da Família no município de Santa Cruz do Capibaribe, PE-Brasil. Os dados foram coletados em 2010 por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e tratados de acordo com os preceitos da análise de conteúdo segundo Bardin. Dentre os motivos que impulsionaram as depoentes a retornarem à consulta pós-parto, destacaram-se a busca pelo bem estar do filho, o sentimento de gratidão e o acolhimento recebido durante o pré-natal. Conclui-se que as entrevistadas reconheceram a consulta puerperal como meio de prevenir agravos e promover a sua saúde e a do neonato.

Metabolic evaluation of dairy cows submitted to three different strategies to decrease the effects of negative energy balance in early postpartum / Avaliação metabólica de vacas leiteiras submetidas a três estratégias para diminuir os efeitos do balanço energético negativo no pós-parto inicial

In early lactation dairy cattle suffer metabolic alterations caused by negative energy balance, which predisposes to fatty liver and ketosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the metabolic condition of high yielding dairy cows subjected to three treatments for preventing severe lipomobilization and ketosis in early lactation. Fifty four multiparous Holstein cows yielding >30 L/day were divided into four groups: control (CN= no treatment), glucose precursor (PG= propylene-glycol), hepatic protector (Mp= Mercepton®), and energy supplement with salts of linolenic and linoleic faty acids (Mg-E= Megalac-E®). Treatments were administrated randomly at moment of calving until 8 weeks postpartum. Blood samples were collected on days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49 postpartum. Body condition score (BCS) was evaluated at the same periods and milk yield was recorded at 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th weeks of lactation. Concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin, AST, ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), cholesterol, glucose, total protein, urea and triglycerides were analyzed in blood samples. Cut-off points for subclinical ketosis were defined when BHBA >1.4 mmol/L and NEFA >0.7 mmol/L. General occurrence of subclinical ketosis was 24 percent during the period. An ascendant curve of cholesterol and glucose was observed from the 1st to the 8th week of lactation, while any tendency was observed with BHBA and NEFA, although differences among treatments were detected (p<0.05). BCS decreased from a mean of 3.85 at 1st week to 2.53 at 8th week of lactation (p=0.001). Milk yield was higher in the Mg-E group compared with the other treatment groups (p<0.05) Compared with the CN group, the treatments with Mp and PG did not show significant differences in blood biochemistry and milk yield. Cows receiving PG and Mg-E showed higher values of BHBA and NEFA (P<0.05), indicating accentuated lipomobilization. Supplementation with Mg-E also resulted in significant higher concentrations of cholesterol, BHBA, urea, AST and lower values of glycemia. This performance may be explained by the highest milk yield observed with this treatment. Treatments with PG and Mp did not improve milk yield, compared with control cows, but did not show metabolic evidence of ketosis, fat mobilization or fatty liver. These results suggest that treatment with Mg-E improves milk production but induces a higher negative energy balance leading to moderated lipomobilization and ketone bodies production, increasing the risk of fatty liver.

Durante o início da lactação as vacas leiteiras sofrem transtornos metabólicos causados pelo balanço energético negativo, o que predispõe a infiltração gordurosa hepática e cetose. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o status metabólico de vacas leiteiras de alta produção submetidas a três tratamentos para prevenir severa lipomobilização e cetose no início da lactação. Cinquenta e quatro vacas de raça Holandesa multíparas produzindo >30 L/dia foram divididas em quatro grupos: controle (CN= sem tratamento), precursor de glicose (PG= propileno-glicol), protetor hepático (Mp= Mercepton®) e suplementação com sais de ácidos linolênico e linoléico (Mg-E= Megalac-E®). Amostras de sangue foram coletadas nos dias 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 e 49 do pós-parto. A condição corporal foi avaliada nos mesmos períodos e a produção de leite foi registrada nas semanas 2, 4, 5, 6, 7 e 8 de lactação. As concentrações de ácidos graxos não esterificados (AGNE), albumina, AST, ß-hidroxibutirato (BHB), colesterol, glicose, proteína total, uréia e triglicerídeos foram determinadas nas amostras de sangue. Pontos de corte para diagnosticar cetose subclínica foram definidos quando BHB >1,4mmol/L e AGNE >0,7mmol/L. A ocorrência geral de cetose subclínica foi de 24 por cento durante o período. Uma curva ascendente de colesterol e de glicose foi observada desde a 1ª até a 8ª semana de lactação, enquanto que nenhuma tendência foi observada com BHB e AGNE, embora diferenças entre os tratamentos foram detectadas (p<0,05). A condição corporal diminuiu de uma media de 3,85 na 1ª semana até 2,53 na 8ª semana de lactação (p=0,001). A produção de leite foi superior no grupo de Mg-E comparado com os demais tratamentos. Comparado com o grupo CN, os tratamentos de Mp e PG não mostraram diferenças significativas na bioquímica sanguínea nem na produção de leite (p<0,05) As vacas que receberam PG e Mg-E mostraram maiores valores de AGNE, indicando uma acentuada lipomobilização. A suplementação com Mg-E também resultou em maiores concentrações de colesterol, BHB, uréia, AST e menores valores de glicemia. Este resultado pode ser explicado pela maior produção de leite observada com este tratamento. Os tratamentos com PG e Mp não melhoraram a produção de leite, comparados ao grupo CN, mas também não mostraram evidências metabólicas de cetose, alta lipomobilização nem infiltração gordurosa hepática. Os resultados sugerem que o tratamento com Mg-E melhora a produção de leite, mas induz um balance energético negativo maior levando a moderada lipomobilização e produção de corpos cetônicos, aumentando o risco de fígado gorduroso.

Influência da gestação e do puerpério no lipidograma de bovinos da raça Holandesa / Influence of gestation and puerperium on the lipid profile of Holstein cattle

Avaliou-se a influência da gestação e do puerpério no lipidograma de bovinos da raça Holandesa por meio da determinação de colesterol, triglicérides, ácidos graxos não esterificados (AGNE), β-hidroxibutirato (β-HBO) e glicose em 80 amostras de soro e plasma sangüíneo. Os animais foram distribuídos em cinco grupos (G) experimentais: G1 - constituído por 16 fêmeas não prenhes; G2 -18 fêmeas na fase inicial da gestação (com até três meses); G3 - 15 fêmeas prenhes, entre três e seis meses de gestação; G4 - 15 fêmeas na fase final da gestação (entre seis e nove meses); G5 - 16 fêmeas recém-paridas, com até 30 dias de puerpério. Houve influência da gestação sobre o lipidograma, pois os teores séricos de AGNE foram mais altos no terço final da gestação, enquanto os teores séricos de β - HBO foram mais elevados durante o terço inicial de gestação. O puerpério influenciou os constituintes do lipidograma, pois, nos primeiros 30 dias após a parição, os teores séricos de AGNE e β - HBO foram mais altos, enquanto os de triglicérides foram mais baixos nos animais no puerpério em relação aos que estavam em gestação.

In order to establish the influence of gestation and puerperium on the lipid profile of Holstein cattle, the concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxibutyrate (β-HBO), and glucose were determined in samples of serum and plasma from 80 animals distributed into five experimental groups (G): G1 - 16 non pregnant females; G2 - 18 females in the initial phase of gestation, up to three months; G3 -15 pregnant females, with gestation from three to six months; G4 - 15 females in the last stage of gestation, from six to nine months; G5 - 16 females soon after delivering, up to 30 days in puerperium. The lipid profile of healthy Holstein cows was influenced by gestation. The concentration of NEFA was higher in the last trimester of gestation while the serum concentration of β-HBO was higher in the first trimester of gestation. In the first 30 days after delivering, the concentrations of NEFA and β-HBO were higher, while those of triglycerides were lower when compared to those of cows during gestation.

Analysis of hyaluronic acid concentration in rat vocal folds during estral and gravidic puerperal cycles / Análise da concentração do ácido hialurônico nas pregas vocais de ratas durante o ciclo estral e ciclo gravídico-puerperal

Hormone plays an important role in the larynx. Among other substances, vocal folds contain hyaluronic acid, which tissue concentration may vary according to hormone action. AIM: the objective of this study is to analyze hyaluronic acid concentration in the vocal folds during estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Experimental study. 40 adult rats were divided into two groups. In the first group we used 20 rats to establish the concentration of hyaluronic acid during the estral cycle and in the second group, 20 animals were submitted to the same procedure but during the gravidic-puerperal cycle. RESULTS: Variations in hyaluronic acid concentration was not observed during the estral cycle. In the gravidic puerperal cycle group, an increase in hyaluronic acid concentration was observed in the puerperal subgroup. Comparing the two groups of estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles, no difference was observed. CONCLUSIONS: In comparing all subgroups of estral and gravidic-puerperal cycles, an increase in hyaluronic acid concentration was noticed only in the puerperal phase.

Os hormônios exercem importante influência sobre a laringe. A prega vocal contém, entre outras substâncias, o ácido hialurônico, cuja concentração nos tecidos pode variar com a ação dos hormônios. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar comparativamente a concentração do ácido hialurônico nas pregas vocais de ratas durante o ciclo estral e ciclo gravídico-puerperal. FORMA DE ESTUDO: Experimental. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foram utilizadas 40 ratas adultas, divididas em dois grupos, no primeiro grupo utilizamos 20 ratas para determinação da concentração do ácido hialurônico no ciclo estral, no segundo grupo, também de 20 animais, foi realizado o mesmo experimento no ciclo gravídico-puerperal. RESULTADOS: No grupo do ciclo estral não observou-se variação da concentração do ácido hialurônico. No grupo do ciclo gravídico-puerperal houve aumento da concentração do ácido hialurônico no subgrupo do puerpério. Na comparação entre os dois grupos do ciclo estral e gravídico-puerperal não houve diferença. Quando comparamos todos os subgrupos há diferença no grupo do puerpério. CONCLUSÕES: Comparando-se todos os subgrupos do ciclo estral e ciclo gravídico-puerperal, só no puerpério houve aumento da concentração do ácido hialurônico.