Effect of assisted calving on uterine puerperal disorders occurrence, and on reproductive efficiency in crossbred dairy cows / Efeito do parto assistido na ocorrência de desordens uterinas puerperais e na eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras mestiças

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the type of calving (normal or assisted) on the occurrence of puerperal uterine disorders and on the number of artificial inseminations (AI) per conception and pregnancy rate at 150 days postpartum (PPD). Cows were observed during parturition and the type of calving was classified as normal or assisted. Normal calving required no human interference, while assisted calving required a calf removal aid via vaginal access. There were 825 births, 7 stillbirths (0.85%) and 17 twins (2.06%). We analyzed 801 single births, from which 766 (95.63%) were normal and 35 (4.36%) assisted. Were evaluated the uterine disorders occurrence such as retained placenta combined with metritis (PR/ME) and clinical endometritis (CE). The overall occurrences were 10.24% (82/801) of RP/ME, 12.86% for CE and 5.12% for RP/ME and CE. Most of normal calving cows had healthy puerperium (73.89%), whereas a majority of assisted calving cows had uterine disorders (74.29%). The number of AI per conception was similar for cows that had either normal or assisted calving (2.39±0.08 and 3.00±0.43, P = 0.16). There was no evidence of negative influence of calving type on the 150 PPD pregnancy rate of lactating crossbreed dairy cows (P = 0.44). Healthy cows had higher 150 PPD pregnancy rate than cows affected by puerperium uterine disorders (51.65 vs. 42.92%). Normal calving crossbred dairy cows had a healthier puerperium, compared to cows with assisted calving which were more susceptible to puerperium uterine disorders. And cows with a health puerperium have a higher pregnancy rate at 150 days postpartum.

Objetivou-se avaliar em vacas leiteiras mestiças que pariram um bezerro vivo, o efeito do tipo de parto (normal ou assistido) na ocorrência de desordens uterinas puerperais e no número de inseminações artificiais (IA) por concepção e taxa de prenhez 150 dias pós-parto (DPP). As vacas foram monitoradas durante o parto e o tipo de parto foi classificado como normal ou assistido. O parto normal não precisou de interferência humana, enquanto o parto assistido precisou de auxílio para retirada do bezerro por via vaginal. Foram registrados 825 partos, sendo 7 natimortos (0,85%) e 17 gemelares (2,06%). Foram analisados 801 partos simples, dos quais 766 (95,63%) foram normais e 35 (4,36%) foram assistidos. Foram avaliadas a ocorrência de desordens uterinas como a retenção de placenta associada com metrite (RP/ME) e endometrite clínica (EC). A ocorrência das doenças foi de 10,24% (82/801) para RP/ME, 12,86% para EC e 5.12% para RP/ME com CE. A maioria das vacas com parto normal tiveram puerpério saudável (73,89%), enquanto a maioria das vacas com parto assistido apresentaram desordens uterinas (74,29%). O número de IA por concepção foi semelhante nas vacas que tiveram parto normal ou assistido (2,39±0,08 e 3,00±0,43, P = 0,16). Não houve evidência de influência negativa do tipo de parto na taxa de prenhez 150 DPP de vacas leiteiras mestiças em lactação (P = 0,44). Vacas saudáveis apresentaram maior taxa de prenhez 150 DPP do que vacas afetadas por desordens uterinas no puerpério (51,65 vs. 42,92%). Vacas leiteiras mestiças com parto normal tiveram um puerpério saudável, comparadas às que tiveram parto assistido, por sua vez foram mais susceptíveis as desordens uterinas no puerpério. E vacas com puerpério saudável resultaram em maiores taxas de prenhez aos 150 dias pós parto.

Effects of Intrauterine Infusion of Micronised Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) in Metritis-Diagnosed Dairy Cows Naturally Infected by E. coli during the Early Postpartum.

The occurrence of metritis during the postpartum period causes serious economic losses in dairy cattle. The Micronised Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) is a polyphenolic flavonoid compound which is considered to have many health-related properties such as antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, phlebotonic, and several vascular-protecting activities. The aim was to evaluate the effects of a new strategic therapy for metritis based on MPFF intrauterine infusions during the early postpartum in dairy cows naturally infected by Escherichia coli. The clinical effects on reproductive anatomical structures and chronological involution dynamics were monitored until day 24 postpartum by ultrasonography. Moreover, uterine bacteriological and cytological (polymorphonuclear neutrophils; PMNs) profiles were analysed before and after MPFF infusion. The results showed that the success rate (% cure) at day 24 postpartum was improved significantly when using higher MPFF doses (p < 0.05). Moreover, MPFF treatment acutely diminished the size of the cervix and uterus and improved the involution process during the first 24 days (p < 0.05). The prevalence of pathogenic bacteria found in in vitro cultures was significantly variable (p < 0.01), as were the antibiotic sensitivity patterns. Pathogenic bacteria isolates decreased after MPFF applications in a dose−response fashion (p < 0.01), while isolates obtained from controls and low-dose-MPFF-treated animals were stable and similar (p > 0.05). The sensitivity patterns of pathogenic bacteria isolated in in vitro cultures from MPFF-treated animals were variable, although resistance to E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., and coliforms was shown irrespective of the MPFF doses used. However, MPFF-treated cows showed a dose−response effect regarding PMN rates (p < 0.05). The calving-first service, calving−conception interval, and conception rate improved significantly from using higher MPFF doses (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study shows that MPFF treatment differentially affects uterine involution, bacteriological profiles, cytological traits, and reproductive performance in metritis-positive dairy cows naturally infected by E. coli.

The use of herbal treatments as alternatives to control uterine diseases in dairy cows.

Uterine diseases are a common gynecological issue that affects dairy cows during the postpartum period. The treatment of uterine diseases is mainly managed through antimicrobials; however, the problem of antibiotic residues, increased antimicrobial resistance of pathogens, and the abuse of antibiotics causes serious problems in the dairy chain around the world, which can affect the efficiency of conventional medicines. In these regards, alternative treatment strategies are needed to reduce the use of antibiotics in dairy production. This review primarily provides an overview that focuses on various alternative sources and methodologies, including plants extracts and essential oils, for the control of bovine uterine diseases, and it presents the advantages and limitations related to the use of these herbal therapies.

Risk factors associated with testing positive for tuberculosis in high-yielding Holstein cows.

Tuberculosis remains a significant infectious disease of farm animals and humans worldwide. The objective of this study was to assess various risk factors associated with testing positive for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in high-yielding Holstein cows in an intensive dry-lot dairy operation. In a retrospective observational study, 9312 records from Holstein cows from a large dairy herd in northern Mexico were used. The incidence rate of lactating cows reactor to bTB was 7.3 cases/100 cow years (95% CI = 6.7-7.9%). Multiple logistic regression models indicated that cows with total milk yield during the first lactation >10,200 kg were 1.3 times (95% confidence intervals (CI) for odds ratio (OR) = 1.2-1.6) more likely to be detected as bTB reactors than cows with total milk yield <10,200 kg (8.2 vs. 6.4%; P < 0.01). The risk of being reactor to bTB increased with x̅ total milk yield/lactation >11,500 kg (OR=2.7, 95% CI = 2.3-3.3; 10.4 vs. 4.2%) compared with cows with x̅ total milk yield/lactation <11,500 kg. Cows with >10,200 kg 305-day milk yield in the last lactation was associated (P < 0.01) with 1.3 times higher odds (95% CI for OR = 1.1-1.5) of being classed as reactors than cows with <10,200 kg. Cows with peak milk yield >48 kg were 1.9 times (95% CI for OR = 1.6-2.2) more likely to be reactor to bTB than cows with peak milk yield <48 kg (9.2 vs. 5.1%; P < 0.01). Cows with either puerperal metritis (OR = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.5-0.9) or carrying twins (OR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.01-0.19) had a protective role for being reactor to bTB. This study showed that increased milk production was associated with a higher risk of becoming positive to tuberculin skin test in high-yielding Holstein cows.

Doenças do pós-parto e seus efeitos sobre a eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras / Postpartum diseases and their effects on dairy cows reproductive efficiency

O período de transição das vacas leiteiras é marcado por diversas alterações fisiológicas, metabólicas e endócrinas. Essas alterações aumentam a susceptibilidade das vacas às infecções no pósparto o que compromete bem-estar, resultando em menor desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo, levando ao aumento dos custos relacionados ao tratamento das infecções e ao descarte de leite. Dentre as doenças que acometem as vacas leiteiras no período pós-parto destacam-se as patologias relacionadas ao trato reprodutivo (retenção de placenta, metrite, endometrite clínica e subclínica) ou em outros órgãos (mastite, claudicação, problemas digestivos e respiratórios), e os distúrbios metabólicos (cetose, hipocalcemia e deslocamento de abomaso). Embora o impacto negativo das doenças no pós-parto sobre a eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras já tenha sido demonstrado por diversos estudos, os mecanismos pelos quais os processos infecciosos e inflamatórios interferem direta e/ou indiretamente no funcionamento do trato reprodutivo das vacas leiteiras ainda não foram totalmente elucidados. Sabe-se que as respostas inflamatória e imunológica frente à infecção podem influenciar processos reprodutivos como a dinâmica folicular ovariana, a esteroidogênese, a competência ovocitária, a fertilização, o desenvolvimento embrionário e a manutenção da gestação. Portanto, a ocorrência de doenças no pós-parto é um obstáculo a eficiência reprodutiva, principalmente devido à alta incidência dessas infecções nas vacas de leite. Podese concluir que a prevenção é a melhor estratégia para combater os efeitos negativos da ocorrência das doenças do pós-parto na eficiência reprodutiva, pois mesmo após a cura clínica dessas patologias a eficiência reprodutiva não é reestabelecida, e seus efeitos persistem por toda a lactação.

The transition period of dairy cows is marked by several physiological, metabolic and endocrine changes. These changes increase the susceptibility of cows to postpartum infections, which compromises welfare, resulting in lower productive and reproductive performance, leading to increased costs related to the treatment of infections and milk disposal. Among the diseases that affect dairy cows in the postpartum period are pathologies related to the reproductive tract (retention of placenta, metritis, clinical and subclinical endometritis) or to other organs (mastitis, claudication, digestive, and respiratory problems), and metabolic disorders (ketosis, hypocalcemia and abomasal displacement). Although the negative impact of postpartum diseases on dairy cows reproductive efficiency has already been demonstrated by several studies, the mechanisms by which infectious and inflammatory processes directly and/or indirectly interfere in the reproductive tract of dairy cows have not yet been fully elucidated. It is known that inflammatory and immunological responses to infection can influence reproductive processes such as ovarian follicular dynamics, steroidogenesis, oocyte competence, fertilization, embryonic development, and maintenance of pregnancy. Therefore, the occurrence of postpartum diseases is an obstacle to reproductive efficiency, mainly due to the high incidence of these infections in dairy cows. It can be concluded that prevention is the best strategy to combat the negative effects of the occurrence of postpartum diseases on reproductive efficiency, because even after the clinical cure of these pathologies reproductive efficiency is not reestablished, and its effects persist throughout lactation.

Relationship of Serum Concentrations of Calcium, Beta-hydroxybutyrate and Glucose to the Occurrence of Mammary and Uterine Disorders during Early Lactation on Dairy Cattle / Relación entre la concentración sérica de calcio, beta-hidroxibutirato y glucosa y la ocurrencia de trastornos mamarios y uterinos durante la lactancia temprana en ganado lechero

Abstract This study aimed to relate the serum levels of energy indicators (glucose and beta-hydroxybutyrate) and calcium to the occurrence of uterine and mammary diseases in the transition period of Holstein cows. One hundred and fifteen Holstein cows from a commercial herd were monitored starting one week before calving and during the first 2 weeks after calving. The presence of subclinical mastitis was monitored for 3 weeks postpartum using the California Mastitis Test (CMT) and somatic cell counting. Positive samples of subclinical mastitis were analyzed for bacterial identification. Clinical mastitis was monitored for 6 weeks postpartum, using data that were recorded by the farmer based on some established definitions. The presence of uterine disorders was identified for 3 weeks postpartum by clinical examination. Blood collections were made from all cows for determining calcium, glucose, and β-hydroxy-butyrate (BHB) the week before calving and twice during the postpartum (days 5 and 15 postpartum). A group of 70 healthy cows was used as control. Clinical mastitis was identified in 20% of the cows, subclinical mastitis in 10.4% and clinical metritis in 8.7% of the cows. The bacterial agents with the highest occurrence in subclinical mastitis cases were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. No relationships were observed between any of the biochemical metabolite studied and the uterine and mammary diseases in the cows during the studied period.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo por objetivo relacionar valores séricos de indicadores energéticos (glucosa y beta-hidroxibutirato) y calcio con la ocurrencia de trastornos uterinos y mamarios durante el periodo de transición en vacas holstein. Ciento quince vacas holstein de un rebaño comercial fueron monitoreadas en la semana previa al parto y durante las primeras dos semanas después del parto. La presencia de mastitis subclínica fue monitoreada por tres semanas posparto mediante la prueba de mastitis California (CMT) y conteo de células somáticas. Las muestras positivas a mastitis subclínica fueron analizadas para identificación bacteriana. La mastitis clínica fue monitoreada durante seis semanas posparto, usando datos registrados en el rebaño. La presencia de trastornos uterinos fue identificada durante tres semanas posparto mediante examen clínico. Se realizaron muestras de sangre de todas las vacas para determinar calcio, glucosa y β-hidroxibutirato la semana anterior al parto y dos veces en el posparto (días 5 y 15). Un grupo de 70 vacas sanas fue usado como control. Un 20% de las vacas presentó mastitis clínica, el 10,4% mastitis subclínica y el 8,7% metritis clínica. Los agentes bacterianos con mayor ocurrencia en los casos de mastitis subclínica fueron Staphylococcus coagulasa-negativos y Streptococcus. No se observó relación de ninguno de los metabolitos bioquímicos con los trastornos uterinos o mamarios en las vacas durante el periodo estudiado.

Recent advances and future directions for uterine diseases diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management in dairy cows.

Researchers, veterinarians, and farmers' pursuit of a consistent diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of uterine diseases remains challenging. The diagnosis and treatment of metritis is inconsistent, a concerning situation when considered the global threat of antimicrobial resistance dissemination. Endometritis is an insidious disease absent on routine health programs in many dairy farms and from pharmaceutical therapeutics arsenal in places like the US market. Conversely, a multitude of studies advanced the understanding of how uterine diseases compromise oocyte, follicle, and embryo development, and the uterine environment having long-lasting effects on fertility. The field of uterine disease microbiome also experienced tremendous progress and created opportunities for the development of novel preventives to improve the management of uterine diseases. Activity monitors, biomarkers, genomic selection, and machine learning predictive models are other innovative developments that have been explored in recent years to help mitigate the negative impacts of uterine diseases. Albeit novel tools such as vaccines for metritis, immune modulators, probiotics, genomic selection, and selective antimicrobial therapy are promising, further research is warranted to implement these technologies in a systematic and cost-effective manner.

Recent advances and future directions for uterine diseases diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management in dairy cows

Researchers, veterinarians, and farmers' pursuit of a consistent diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of uterine diseases remains challenging. The diagnosis and treatment of metritis is inconsistent, a concerning situation when considered the global threat of antimicrobial resistance dissemination. Endometritis is an insidious disease absent on routine health programs in many dairy farms and from pharmaceutical therapeutics arsenal in places like the US market. Conversely, a multitude of studies advanced the understanding of how uterine diseases compromise oocyte, follicle, and embryo development, and the uterine environment having long-lasting effects on fertility. The field of uterine disease microbiome also experienced tremendous progress and created opportunities for the development of novel preventives to improve the management of uterine diseases. Activity monitors, biomarkers, genomic selection, and machine learning predictive models are other innovative developments that have been explored in recent years to help mitigate the negative impacts of uterine diseases. Albeit novel tools such as vaccines for metritis, immune modulators, probiotics, genomic selection, and selective antimicrobial therapy are promising, further research is warranted to implement these technologies in a systematic and cost-effective manner.

Recent advances and future directions for uterine diseases diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management in dairy cows

Researchers, veterinarians, and farmers' pursuit of a consistent diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of uterine diseases remains challenging. The diagnosis and treatment of metritis is inconsistent, a concerning situation when considered the global threat of antimicrobial resistance dissemination. Endometritis is an insidious disease absent on routine health programs in many dairy farms and from pharmaceutical therapeutics arsenal in places like the US market. Conversely, a multitude of studies advanced the understanding of how uterine diseases compromise oocyte, follicle, and embryo development, and the uterine environment having long-lasting effects on fertility. The field of uterine disease microbiome also experienced tremendous progress and created opportunities for the development of novel preventives to improve the management of uterine diseases. Activity monitors, biomarkers, genomic selection, and machine learning predictive models are other innovative developments that have been explored in recent years to help mitigate the negative impacts of uterine diseases. Albeit novel tools such as vaccines for metritis, immune modulators, probiotics, genomic selection, and selective antimicrobial therapy are promising, further research is warranted to implement these technologies in a systematic and cost-effective manner.(AU)

Metabolites able to predict uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows during the transition period / Metabólitos capazes de predizer enfermidades uterinas em vacas leiteiras mestiças no período de transição

This study aimed to identify possible metabolites able to predict puerperal uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows (Holstein x Gir) in the transition period. We hypothesized that, as what has been observed for Holstein cows, a negative energy balance (NEB) may increase the incidence of uterine diseases. Thirty-four lactating crossbred cows (½HG, »HG, ¾HG, and 5/8HG) were evaluated during prepartum (-60d and -30d), calving, and postpartum (+14d, +21d, and +35d) periods, being divided into two groups (with and without uterine diseases). NEB evaluations were based on the concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) at calving and 14 days postpartum. Nearly 1/3 of the crossbred cows presented an NEB, characterized by a significant increase in NEFA with no BHBA increase; however, it was less intense than that observed in Holstein cows during the transition period. There was a significant difference between cows with and without uterine diseases in NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum, as well as body condition score (BCS) during prepartum. In conclusion, the occurrence of uterine diseases during the transitional period is related to the BCS in the prepartum period, besides serum NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar possíveis metabólitos no período de transição capazes de predizer a ocorrência de enfermidades uterinas puerperais em vacas leiteiras (Holandês X Gir). A hipótese foi de que, semelhante ao observado em vacas Holandesas, o balanço energético negativo (BEN) aumentaria a incidência de enfermidades uterinas. Foram utilizadas 34 vacas lactantes com variação entre ½HG, »HG, ¾HG e 5/8HG de composição genética. Os momentos avaliados foram estabelecidos como pré-parto (-60d e -30d), parto e pós-parto (+14d, +21d e +35d) e as fêmeas divididas em dois grupos, com e sem enfermidades uterinas. O BEN foi estabelecido com base nas concentrações de ácidos graxos não-esterificados (NEFA) e beta-hidroxibutirato (BHBA) no parto e 14 dias pós-parto. Observou-se que cerca de 1/3 das vacas mestiças passaram por BEN caracterizado por aumento significativo de NEFA e sem aumento de BHBA, porém em intensidade menor do que o observado em vacas Holandesas. Verificou-se diferença significativa do escore de condição corporal (ECC) no pré-parto e das concentrações de NEFA e de cálcio no parto, entre vacas com e sem enfermidades uterinas. Conclui-se que o ECC no pré-parto e as concentrações de NEFA e cálcio no parto se relacionam com a ocorrência de enfermidades uterinas.(AU)

Pathogenesis of uterine diseases in dairy cattle and implications for fertility.

Uterine diseases in cattle occur at all stages of the reproduction cycle but the majority of cases is found in the postpartum period. The inflammation of the uterus is generally defined as metritis or endometritis, with several graduations, e.g. puerperal metritis, clinical metritis, clinical or subclinical endometritis. Whether uterine diseases have a negligible, moderate or detrimental effect on fertility is still under discussion and depends on definitions and classification. In the past, it was assumed that the pregnant uterus is free of pathogens, but recent studies found several species including pathogens in the uterus and endometrium of pregnant cows. After parturition, a broad diversity of bacteria with >200 different species has been found in the early postpartum period. Not all of these bacteria, however, are considered as pathogens. Furthermore, bacteriological findings provide only evidence for infection but not for inflammation. For some bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes pathogenic mechanism resulting in metritis and endometritis have been elucidated in detail. The role of bacteria that can be regarded as opportunistic or potential pathogens, e.g. Bacillus pumilus, is still under investigation. The understanding of the uterine microbiota and its interactions is increasing with the use of modern high-resolution techniques such as Fourier- transform infrared spectroscopy. Endometrial cytology provides additional information about alterations in the endometrium. Knowledge of innate uterine defense mechanism in cattle has increased a lot in the recent past. It can be speculated that improving or modulating uterine defense mechanism will be part of future prevention and treatment approaches beyond the use of antimicrobials. In this context, cellular and molecular defense mechanisms have been in the focus of interest, e.g. the role of interleukins or mucins. This review gives a short overview on some aspects of recent research on uterine diseases in cattle.

Metabolites able to predict uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows during the transition period / Metabólitos capazes de predizer enfermidades uterinas em vacas leiteiras mestiças no período de transição

This study aimed to identify possible metabolites able to predict puerperal uterine diseases in crossbred dairy cows (Holstein x Gir) in the transition period. We hypothesized that, as what has been observed for Holstein cows, a negative energy balance (NEB) may increase the incidence of uterine diseases. Thirty-four lactating crossbred cows (½HG, »HG, ¾HG, and 5/8HG) were evaluated during prepartum (-60d and -30d), calving, and postpartum (+14d, +21d, and +35d) periods, being divided into two groups (with and without uterine diseases). NEB evaluations were based on the concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) at calving and 14 days postpartum. Nearly 1/3 of the crossbred cows presented an NEB, characterized by a significant increase in NEFA with no BHBA increase; however, it was less intense than that observed in Holstein cows during the transition period. There was a significant difference between cows with and without uterine diseases in NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum, as well as body condition score (BCS) during prepartum. In conclusion, the occurrence of uterine diseases during the transitional period is related to the BCS in the prepartum period, besides serum NEFA and calcium concentrations at partum.

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar possíveis metabólitos no período de transição capazes de predizer a ocorrência de enfermidades uterinas puerperais em vacas leiteiras (Holandês X Gir). A hipótese foi de que, semelhante ao observado em vacas Holandesas, o balanço energético negativo (BEN) aumentaria a incidência de enfermidades uterinas. Foram utilizadas 34 vacas lactantes com variação entre ½HG, »HG, ¾HG e 5/8HG de composição genética. Os momentos avaliados foram estabelecidos como pré-parto (-60d e -30d), parto e pós-parto (+14d, +21d e +35d) e as fêmeas divididas em dois grupos, com e sem enfermidades uterinas. O BEN foi estabelecido com base nas concentrações de ácidos graxos não-esterificados (NEFA) e beta-hidroxibutirato (BHBA) no parto e 14 dias pós-parto. Observou-se que cerca de 1/3 das vacas mestiças passaram por BEN caracterizado por aumento significativo de NEFA e sem aumento de BHBA, porém em intensidade menor do que o observado em vacas Holandesas. Verificou-se diferença significativa do escore de condição corporal (ECC) no pré-parto e das concentrações de NEFA e de cálcio no parto, entre vacas com e sem enfermidades uterinas. Conclui-se que o ECC no pré-parto e as concentrações de NEFA e cálcio no parto se relacionam com a ocorrência de enfermidades uterinas.

Pathogenesis of uterine diseases in dairy cattle and implications for fertility

Uterine diseases in cattle occur at all stages of the reproduction cycle but the majority of cases is found in the postpartum period. The inflammation of the uterus is generally defined as metritis or endometritis, with several graduations, e.g. puerperal metritis, clinical metritis, clinical or subclinical endometritis. Whether uterine diseases have a negligible, moderate or detrimental effect on fertility is still under discussion and depends on definitions and classification. In the past, it was assumed that the pregnant uterus is free of pathogens, but recent studies found several species including pathogens in the uterus and endometrium of pregnant cows. After parturition, a broad diversity of bacteria with >200 different species has been found in the early postpartum period. Not all of these bacteria, however, are considered as pathogens. Furthermore, bacteriological findings provide only evidence for infection but not for inflammation. For some bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes pathogenic mechanism resulting in metritis and endometritis have been elucidated in detail. The role of bacteria that can be regarded as opportunistic or potential pathogens, e.g. Bacillus pumilus, is still under investigation. The understanding of the uterine microbiota and its interactions is increasing with the use of modern high-resolution techniques such as Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy. Endometrial cytology provides additional information about alterations in the endometrium. Knowledge of innate uterine defense mechanism in cattle has increased a lot in the recent past. It can be speculated that improving or modulating uterine defense mechanism will be part of future prevention and treatment approaches beyond the use of antimicrobials. In this context, cellular and molecular defense mechanisms have been in the focus of interest, e.g. the role of interleukins or mucins. This review gives a short overview on some aspects of recent research on uterine diseases in cattle.

Pathogenesis of uterine diseases in dairy cattle and implications for fertility

Uterine diseases in cattle occur at all stages of the reproduction cycle but the majority of cases is found in the postpartum period. The inflammation of the uterus is generally defined as metritis or endometritis, with several graduations, e.g. puerperal metritis, clinical metritis, clinical or subclinical endometritis. Whether uterine diseases have a negligible, moderate or detrimental effect on fertility is still under discussion and depends on definitions and classification. In the past, it was assumed that the pregnant uterus is free of pathogens, but recent studies found several species including pathogens in the uterus and endometrium of pregnant cows. After parturition, a broad diversity of bacteria with >200 different species has been found in the early postpartum period. Not all of these bacteria, however, are considered as pathogens. Furthermore, bacteriological findings provide only evidence for infection but not for inflammation. For some bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes pathogenic mechanism resulting in metritis and endometritis have been elucidated in detail. The role of bacteria that can be regarded as opportunistic or potential pathogens, e.g. Bacillus pumilus, is still under investigation. The understanding of the uterine microbiota and its interactions is increasing with the use of modern high-resolution techniques such as Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy. Endometrial cytology provides additional information about alterations in the endometrium. Knowledge of innate uterine defense mechanism in cattle has increased a lot in the recent past. It can be speculated that improving or modulating uterine defense mechanism will be part of future prevention and treatment approaches beyond the use of antimicrobials. In this context, cellular and molecular defense mechanisms have been in the focus of interest, e.g. the role of interleukins or mucins. This review gives a short overview on some aspects of recent research on uterine diseases in cattle.(AU)

Postpartum uterine infection and endometritis in dairy cattle

After parturition, uterine involution, regeneration of the endometrium, return of ovarian cyclic activity, and the control of pathogenic bacteria in the uterus is required before cows are likely to conceive again. However, pathogenic bacteria often cause uterine disease in modern dairy cattle, leading to decreased productivity and reduced fertility. This review aims to provide an overview of postpartum uterine infection and disease in dairy cattle. Metritis and endometritis are the main postpartum clinical conditions; although, subclinical endometritis is an emerging issue. Postpartum uterine disease is associated with the isolation of Escherichia coli, Trueperella pyogenes, and anaerobic pathogenic bacteria. Sensing of bacteria or their pathogen-associated molecules, such as lipopolysaccharide, by the innate immune system generates inflammatory responses. Endometrial inflammation includes increased expression of complement, calgranulins, interleukins and acute phase proteins, as well as the chemotaxis of neutrophils and macrophages to the site of infection. Uterine disease is also characterised by tissue damage, including endometrial cytolysis caused by the cholesterol-dependent cytolysin, pyolysin. The responses to pathogens are energetically expensive, and depletion of the key cellular nutrients, glucose or glutamine, impairs inflammatory responses by endometrial tissues. For sustainable intensification of the dairy industry over the next 50 years, it is vital to understand why high-milk-yield cows are so susceptible to uterine pathology and develop new ways to prevent uterine disease.

Postpartum uterine infection and endometritis in dairy cattle

After parturition, uterine involution, regeneration of the endometrium, return of ovarian cyclic activity, and the control of pathogenic bacteria in the uterus is required before cows are likely to conceive again. However, pathogenic bacteria often cause uterine disease in modern dairy cattle, leading to decreased productivity and reduced fertility. This review aims to provide an overview of postpartum uterine infection and disease in dairy cattle. Metritis and endometritis are the main postpartum clinical conditions; although, subclinical endometritis is an emerging issue. Postpartum uterine disease is associated with the isolation of Escherichia coli, Trueperella pyogenes, and anaerobic pathogenic bacteria. Sensing of bacteria or their pathogen-associated molecules, such as lipopolysaccharide, by the innate immune system generates inflammatory responses. Endometrial inflammation includes increased expression of complement, calgranulins, interleukins and acute phase proteins, as well as the chemotaxis of neutrophils and macrophages to the site of infection. Uterine disease is also characterised by tissue damage, including endometrial cytolysis caused by the cholesterol-dependent cytolysin, pyolysin. The responses to pathogens are energetically expensive, and depletion of the key cellular nutrients, glucose or glutamine, impairs inflammatory responses by endometrial tissues. For sustainable intensification of the dairy industry over the next 50 years, it is vital to understand why high-milk-yield cows are so susceptible to uterine pathology and develop new ways to prevent uterine disease.(AU)

Investigation of the effect of pegbovigrastim on some periparturient immune disorders and performance in Mexican dairy herds.

This study analyzed the efficacy of pegbovigrastim (Imrestor, Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN) on some health and production parameters in lactating dairy cows. Primiparous and multiparous Holsteins from 17 Mexican dairy herds (n = 10,238) were included in this study, which was conducted in 2015. Treated cows (n = 5,025) received Imrestor approximately 7 d before expected calving and again within 24 h after calving; control cows (n = 5,213) did not receive a placebo. Clinical mastitis (MAS; 0 to 30 DIM), retained placenta (RP), and clinical metritis (MET; 0 to 21 DIM) occurrences were recorded, as well as the number of medication days, medical treatments needed, and the number of days that milk was discarded due to medication administered for disease. Milk yield was measured from calving until 120 d in milk. Imrestor reduced the incidence of MAS by 25%, and the odds ratio of having mastitis in the first 30 d in milk was 35% greater for control cows than for Imrestor cows. Imrestor treatment reduced the number of medical treatments required for MAS by 6%, and less milk was discarded due to medication for MAS as a result of the Imrestor treatment. The incidence of RP was reduced by 4.15% with Imrestor and the odds of cows having RP were 4.6% greater for control than Imrestor treatments, but they did not differ. The MET incidence was increased by 17.1% with Imrestor. The use of Imrestor around parturition increased by 5.8% the odds of inseminating cows during the first 100 d after calving. Imrestor-treated multiparous cows with MAS produced 2.1 kg/d more milk than control cows with MAS during the first 30 d of their lactation. Imrestor-treated multiparous cows with MET produced 2.3 kg/d more milk than MET control cows during the first 120 d of their lactation. We conclude that Imrestor can help the dairy cow cope with immune periparturient disorders and can increase the milk yield of dairy cows due to a healthier transition, despite a reported increase in the incidence of MET.

Vaginal microbial communities from synchronized heifers and cows with reproductive disorders.

AIM: To evaluate changes in the resident microbial population in the cranial vaginal mucosa induced by a progesterone-releasing intravaginal device (PRID) compared to the vaginal microbiota of cows with reproductive disorders. METHODS AND RESULTS: Vaginal discharge was evaluated by clinical examination and a Vaginitis Diagnosis Score was performed by exfoliative cytology. All samples classified as positive and some classified as negative by clinical evaluation were later diagnosed as positive for vaginitis by cytological analysis. Bacterial diversity profiles were performed by PCR-DGGE and clustered according to the reproductive health status of the specimens, revealing a correspondence between the structures of the communities in the vagina and the clinical profile. Representative bands from each group were sequenced and identified as Ruminococcus sp., Dialister sp., Escherichia sp./Shigella sp., Virgibacillus sp., Campylobacter sp., Helcoccoccus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Bacillus sp., Actinopolymorpha sp., Exiguobacterium sp., Haemophilus sp./Histophilus sp., Aeribacillus sp., Porphyromonas sp., Lactobacillus sp. and Clostridium sp. CONCLUSION: Our results contribute to the knowledge of the vaginal microbiome in synchronized heifers showing positive or negative clinical vaginitis. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This study contributes to the understanding of a dynamic vaginal colonization by bacterial consortiums during the synchronization with a widely used PRID protocol. Also, the results reveal the presence of well-known metritis-related pathogens as well as emerging uterine opportunistic pathogens. The provided information will allow to carry out further studies to elucidate functional roles of these native micro-organisms in the bovine reproductive tract.

Dysgerminoma and granulosa cell tumor in a bitch

Dysgerminoma and granulosa cell tumor are neoplasms of the ovary of domestic animals, originating from germ cells and sex-cords cells, respectively. These neoplasms generally occur unilaterally, and usually as a single neoplasm. This report describes a case of a dysgerminoma in the right ovary and a granulosa cell tumor in the left ovary in a six years old bitch. An Akita and Siberian Husky crossbred bitch was admitted at the Veterinary Hospital (Universidade Vila Velha), with a history of purulent vaginal discharge, irregular estrous cycle, fatigue, polydipsia and polyuria. Ultrasound exam demonstrated bilateral ovarian neoplasms, and the animal was subjected to ovariohysterectomy. Macroscopic and microscopic features found in right and left ovaries were typical of dysgerminoma and granulosa cells tumor Sertoli-like, respectively. The uterus had cystic endometrial hyperplasia associated with mild metritis. Ovarian neoplasms occurring bilaterally are uncommon especially with different cell origins and distinct histopathological patterns in each ovary as described in this report.

Dysgerminoma and granulosa cell tumor in a bitch

Dysgerminoma and granulosa cell tumor are neoplasms of the ovary of domestic animals, originating from germ cells and sex-cords cells, respectively. These neoplasms generally occur unilaterally, and usually as a single neoplasm. This report describes a case of a dysgerminoma in the right ovary and a granulosa cell tumor in the left ovary in a six years old bitch. An Akita and Siberian Husky crossbred bitch was admitted at the Veterinary Hospital (Universidade Vila Velha), with a history of purulent vaginal discharge, irregular estrous cycle, fatigue, polydipsia and polyuria. Ultrasound exam demonstrated bilateral ovarian neoplasms, and the animal was subjected to ovariohysterectomy. Macroscopic and microscopic features found in right and left ovaries were typical of dysgerminoma and granulosa cells tumor Sertoli-like, respectively. The uterus had cystic endometrial hyperplasia associated with mild metritis. Ovarian neoplasms occurring bilaterally are uncommon especially with different cell origins and distinct histopathological patterns in each ovary as described in this report.(AU)