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The objective of this study was to evaluate the response of dairy cows to granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) according to white blood cells and incidence of mastitis and metritis. Experimental cows (n = 15) received GCSF 7 days before expected calving and again within 24 hours after calving. Control cows (n = 15) injected with saline. Blood samples collected 3 times (-7;0;7 days relative to parturition) from each cow immediately before GCSF and saline injection. Total leucocyte and granulocyte in the whole blood counted using hematology analyzer. To determine the presence of polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMN), blood smear slides were prepared and stained. In experimental group, significant increase observed on white blood cells (WBC), lymphocyte (LYM) and granulocyte (GRA) counts, especially in band and segmented groups of neutrophils. In GCSF treated group GRA count were elevated from 67.7 % to 74.5% compared to the control group. Band neutrophil cells was higher by 40.5% compared to the control group. Segmented neutrophil cells was 22 % higher compared to the control group. Lymphocyte (LYM) count in experimental group was 25.5% to 39.8% higher compared to the control group. Clinical mastitis diagnosed in both groups equally by 6.7 %. Clinical metritis with 20% occurrence ratio diagnosed only for experimental cows. In our study GCSF did not reduced the incidence of clinical mastitis in cows during the periparturient period and increased clinical metritis incidence ratio, but represents an innovative way to reduce periparturiend diseases incidence by affecting immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to estimate the reproductive function disorders of dairy cows depending their age, productivity and holding mode and evaluate efficiency of hormonal stimulation of reproduction function the cows after recovery. Evaluate the incidence ovarian cysts and hypophunction of dairy cows and efficiency of hormonal stimulation of reproduction function after recovery. Selected analoguos yielding (7000-7500 kg per lactation), different holding (A farm - 88 - bonded holding, B farm - 38, - loose holding), 1 - 4 lactation, 60 - 100 DM ( n= 126) open cows. We were done two experiments. First experiment: Cows are evaluated according to the ovarian condition and selected on 3 groups. 1 group (n=97) - healthy cows with tipical derivates in ovaries and with reproductive disorders - 2 group (n=20) with hypofunction ovary, and 3 group (n=9) ovarian cysts. Second experiment: All cows (healthy and after treatment of reproductive disorders) we were stimulated with prostaglandins and with by Ovsynch protocols. In the farm "A" cows with ovarian hypofunction were determined at 7.2 percent less than farm "B". Cysts on the farm "A" were determined at 12.8 percent more than at farm "B". Milk yield has impact on reproduction status. In the healthy group, the milk yield was 27.02±0.761, with ovarian hypofunction 26.55±1.694 and cysts 26.22±1.935. Hypofunction of the first lactation cows were determined 1.4 percent more than >4 lactating cows, ovarian cysts >4 lactating cows are 1.2 percent more than 1 and 2-3 lactation cows. Pregnancy rates with prostaglandin was 61.8 percent and Ovsynch - 68.0 percent. Cows which suffered from hypofunction are more likely to be pregnant than those with cysts. Influence of milk yield and age on morbidity in ovarian cysts and hypofunction is wasn't evidenced. On reproductive disorders had influence housing. Recovered after treatment of hipofunction should be stimulated by prostaglandins by Ovsynch protocol. Recovered after treatment of cysts, need stimulate by Ovsynch, because efficiency was 2 time greater, in compare prostaglandins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the seeds germination inhibition technique was applied to diagnose pregnancy of Lithuanian Black and White dairy heifers. The urine samples collected from 14 heifers. The urine was diluted at the ratio of 1:4 with distilled water. In each sterile Petri dish, fifteen wheat seeds were taken on the blotting paper and 15 ml of diluted urine was added. Control test was also carried out with the addition of distilled water only to the wheat seeds. It was collected the urine samples on days 14, 24, 34 and 44 post embryo transplantation. Pregnancy diagnosis confirm with ultrasound device „Draminski animal profi 2" at 44 days after embryo transplantation. The germination rate was 15.0, 26.67, 19.27 and 9.27 per cent in pregnant heifers on days 14, 24, 34 and 44 post embryo transplantation. The shoot lengths of the germinated wheat seeds was 1.0, 0.4, 0.4, 0.5 cm in pregnant heifers on days 14, 24, 34 and 44 post embryo transplantation. Inhibition of germination and shoot growth were attained by the urine of pregnant heifers and does. In conclusion, seed germination test can be used as a simple and non-invasive method to detect pregnancy in heifers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentration of progesterone during oestrus is associated with cow fertility and success of the inseminate. The aim of the study was to evaluate milk yielding, milk composition and number of lactation relation with cow milk progesterone concentration during oestrus. Clinically healthy Lithuanian Red (LR) breed cows without reproduction disorders, and 90-100 days after calving (n=30) during oestrus were divided by milk yield (20% less - first group, average - the second and the third 20% higher) and by lactation number (the first, the second and the third). Milk samples for progesterone and milk composition determining were taken during oestrus, after milking and stored in plastic containers (50 ml), not preserved. Milk was taken once, when oestrous was observed. Progesterone has been determined using the set HORMONOST MILK produced by BIOLAB GmbH company (Munich). Milk composition (fat, protein) was determined by device EKOMILK M, based on ultrasonic technology. Somatic cells were measured EKOMILK SCAN analyser. Progesterone concentration in cows' milk Group II of cows was by 30.34% higher than in Group I, but by 17.65% lower than in group III (P>0.05). Difference of mean of progesterone compare III was by 40.79% higher than in Group I (P<0.05). The highest concentration of progesterone was determined in the milk of cows of third and more lactation - (by 55.4% higher than of cows the second lactation and by 26.4% higher than cows of the first lactation. Progesterone concentration during oestrous correlated with milk yield r=0.50 (P<0.01), and milk protein concentration r=-0.46 (P<0.01). Milk yield and lactation number of LR cows associated with inadequate progesterone concentration during oestrous and it may be the cause of decreased fertility of high yielding cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The objective of the work was to investigate the possibility of early diagnostics of sub-clinical and clinical bovine mastitis according to a set of parameters recorded by a herd management system (production and electrical conductivity of milk and milking time,) taking into account the efficiency of treatment. In the beginning of investigation, three groups of cows were formed (3.5±0.12 and 2.8±0.13 lactation month on average). Cows of the first group (n=20) were diagnosed sub-clinical and cows of the second group (n=20) clinical mastitis; whereas cows of the third group (control) were clinically healthy (n=20). Cows of the first group were treated with udder creams (Karbasept®) and injections of Vitamin E and the preparation containing selenium (Se). Cows of the second group were treated with antibiotics of penicillin group on the basis of data of bacteriological test. Investigations revealed that in the case of clinical mastitis the milking time (p<0.05) before the diagnosis of the disease and after it was longer. Three days before the clinical manifestation of the disease, milk production decreased (p<0.05) whereas electrical conductivity of milk increased (p<0.05). SCC increased (p<0.05) on a day of clinical diagnosis of the disease. The signs for early diagnostics of sub-clinical mastitis might be: decreased production of milk (p<0.05), prolonged milking time (p<0.05), increased electrical conductivity of milk (p<0.05), and increased SCC (p<0.05) evidencing on the day of manifestation of clinical symptoms. After the introduction of treatment of subclinical mastitis, milk production and SCC recovered in 30 days, electrical conductivity of milk recovered in 1 day, and milking time recovered in 3 days (p<0.05). After the treatment of clinical mastitis, the records showed increased milk production (y = 0.3536x + 21.893; R² = 0.5845), decreased electrical conductivity of milk (y = -0.0426x + 10.974; R² = 0.3441), and decreased milking time (after 3 days) (p <0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the current study were to determine clinical value of changes in progesterone levels when evaluating cow's ability to estrus. Overall, 25 Lithuanian Holstein cows from one commercial dairy herd in Lithuania were studied. The progesterone level fluctuation (profile) in milk was detected with semi quantitative methods every five days, over the 20 to 90 DIM periods. Cows were monitored for estrus an hour before the morning milking, an hour after evening milking and 15 minutes after the noon milking. Cows in heat were identified by common clinical signs. Cows were divided into two groups of 25 animals: group 1- estrus was observed up to 90 days after calving, group 2 - estrus was not detected until 90 days after calving. Milk yield was collected and its composition determined during milking every 30 days starting on day 30 after calving. The peak concentration of progesterone was observed on the average on the 30th, 45th, 70th and 90th day after calving. Progesterone concentrations varied in a similar way in both groups. In the group with estrus, the concentrations of progesterone (8.2 proc. p<0.05) and milk yield (5.6 % p>0.05) were higher. Statistical correlation between progesterone levels and cows yielding was not determined (r=0.2, p>0.05). Atypical (unrepresentative on estrus cycle) rise in progesterone levels was detected on the 70th day after calving. This might be associated with higher milk yield. Progesterone changes are indicative of cows ability to estrus. If elevated progesterone levels characteristic to estrus cycle are detected and reach maximal values, one might expect that cow's estrus will start on the 90th day after calving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decline in dairy cows' fertility is often linked to incorrect detection of oestrus time but its causes are not always obvious. The objectives of the current study were to determine the correlation between the incidence of cow heat with clinical signs and milk progesterone concentration during heat and to investigate how these indices affect milk yield and lactation period. Overall, 28 Lithuanian Holstein cows from one commercial dairy herd in Lithuanian were studied. The milk progesterone concentration was measured every three days, starting with 20 DIM to 90 follow-up. Cows in heat were identified by ordinary clinical signs. A decline of progesterone concentration in milk followed by an increase of progesterone concentration to ≥5 ng/1 was identified as ovulation (subclinical heat). Most cows in heat (clinical and subclinical) were determined on the 35-60 DIM. On these days, the number of cows with clinical signs of heat was by 14 % (p<0.05) lower than on the days 20-35 DIM. In the period of decline of milk yield, the number of cows with the clinical signs of heat increased by 25 proc. The progesterone concentration was 3.2 ± 0.14 ng/1, or by 15 percent (p<0.01) higher on days 20-35 DIM, than in the period of peak productivity -- 2.4 ± 0.37 ng/ml. Decline in milk yield is followed by increases of progesterone concentrations during oestrus. At this time, it is 3.05 ± 0.17 ng/1 or 18 percent (p<0.01) higher than in the milk of cows in heat during peak lactation. Manifestations of oestrus and milk progesterone concentration were influenced by milk production and number of days postpartum. It seems likely that the elevated steroid metabolism plays the central role in the reduction of the signs of oestrus in the period of lactation-induced peak productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the efficiency of low-intensity laser (LIL) irradiation, antibiotic injects and a combination of both methods in the prophylaxis and treatment of metritis in cows. Tests were done on freshly calved cows with a rectal temperature on the second day after parturition above 38.9 degrees Celsius. Fertility indices like calving first insemination were found to be better in cows treated prophylactically with a combined method of antibiotic and LIL physiotherapy.

The objective of the study was to compare the results of progesterone test with clinical rectal pregnancy check and how these are influenced by cow milk yield. A total of 42 cows were examined at the time of AI. Cows were divided into three groups based on their daily milk yield. Group 1 of 15 cows, with milk yield 20-23 kg. Group 2 of 15 cows with milk yield 24-27 kg and group 3 with milk yield 28-31 kg. Milk samples for progesterone assay were collected on the 24th day after AI. Rectal pregnancy check was carried out 60 days after AI. For checking of progesterone concentration, the milk samples were collected in accordance with the manufacturer's methodology MULTILYSER S20, immediately after milking. Samples for milk quantity and milk composition were collected 60 and 30 days before AI, at the moment of insemination and 30 days following the AI. The level of progesterone level during the examination time was associated with the physiological condition of cows. The progesterone level was associated with the physiological state of cows - pregnant or not pregnant. 21 days after insemination, the progesterone concentration in milk samples differed by 34.1 per cent (p <0.005). In the group of pregnant cows it was 12.08 ± 1.5 ng / ml and in the group of not pregnant cows 7.9 ± 4.19 ng / ml. The difference of results of rectal and progesterone checks can be explained by embryo mortality. Progesterone concentrations in group 1 with the lowest milk yield were by 2.4 per cent (P <0.05) lower than in group 2. Milk yield before AI of pregnant cows checked with progesterone test was lower than that of nonpregnant cows. Lactose concentrations can be taken as one of the signs linking the cow's reproductive health and milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the diagnostic value of physiological parameters measured with the help of Herd Management Software (milk yield, electrical conductivity of milk, body-weight and walking activity of cows). Based on clinical symptoms, cows have been grouped into four test groups: cows with sub-clinical mastitis, endometritis, left displaced abomasum and clinically healthy cows (control group); 20 cows in each. Physiological measurements (milk yield and electrical conductivity of milk, body-weight and activity of cows) of all examined cows were taken on the 3d, 2nd, and 1st day before illness. Activity has a clinical value for diagnosis of mastitis 2 days before the occurrence of the symptoms (50% lower compared to the control group, p <0.04). Milk yield 2 days before the occurrence of the symptoms was by 17% lower compared to the control group (p<0.02). Electrical conductivity of milk 3 days before the contraction of the disease was 15% higher compared to the control group (p<0.003). Body weight was 8.6% higher (p<0.05) compared to healthy cows. Activity has a clinical value for diagnosis of endometritis 3 days before the occurrence of the symptoms (p<0.04), by 30% lower compared to the control group). Activity has a clinical value in diagnosing abomasal displacement 3 days before the occurrence of the symptoms (59% lower, p<0.004); milk yield I day before the occurrence of the symptoms was 35.7% lower (p<0.05) compared to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation evaluated the effect of treatment of subclinical mastitis with cefalexin and combination of cefalexin with ampicillin. Thirty cows with somatic cell count (SCC) >400,000/ml and with sensitivity of milk microflora to cefalexin and ampicillin were used for the experiment. The cows were divided into 3 equal groups (Groups 1-3) of 10 cows in each. Groups 1 and 2 were treated with cephalexin, and cephalexin with ampicillin. Group 3 was served as control and treated with saline. Antibiotics were injected 3 times with 12 hour interval. The therapeutic effect was evaluated according to SCC and bacteriological tests of milk on days 0, 30 and 60. In Group I, 60 days after treatment E. coli and Streptococcus agalactiae decreased on 20 %, and coagulase negative staphylococcus (CNS) on 80 %, respectively. No influence on Staphylococcus aureus and SCC was registered. In Group 2, 60 days after treatment E. coli and Streptococcus agalactiae decreased on 30 % and 40 %. However, there was no influence on CNS and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, on day 30 in Groups 1 and 2 there was decretion of SCC 11.6 %. (P>0.05) and 49.87 % (P<0.05), respectively. In conclusion, our study showed that cefalexin and combination of cefalexin with ampicillin are suitable for treatment of mastitis caused by Streptococcus agalactiae and E. coli, and not effective for treatment of CNS and Staphylococus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of study was to determine whether daily walking activity (motility) and milk yields, milk conductivity and cows body weight could be used as predictors of reproductive disorders early in lactation and what is impact of seasons and lactations stage. We used Afimilk computerized dairy farm management system Afifarm (Israel), 5 and 25 days after parturition we recorded cows' milk yield (in kilos), body weight (in kilos), walking activity (in steps per hour) and milk conductivity (in S/cm). The cows, which in latest stages of lactation have endometritis and whose SCC has increased (over 300000 cels/ml) 25 days pp (post partum), milk conductivity and walking activity are increscent. In summer season body weight of cows was 7.8 % lower compared to winter. In winter season there was on 11.1% higher milk yield and on 2.4% lower milk conductivity. The season and lactations stage had no significant impact on walking activity. The least dependent attribute from a season and lactations is walking activity. Walking activity an milk conductivity depending on season and lactation stage could be used as predictors of reproductive disorders early in lactation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the potential influence of pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of ketosis "Ergogen Complex" on milk composition and udder microflora in cows. Twenty eight cows, which at the beginning of a dry period were in good body condition were selected by stratified random sampling. In the first experiment the correlation between hydroxybutyrate level (HB) and milk composition, milk yield and microflora in fifteen cows 5 days postpartum was analysed. Statistical analysis performed by regression method had shown positive correlation between HB and milk fat, lactose and protein level. There was statistically significant influence of HB on the fat content of milk (49.0%, P<0.05) and udder microflora (16.2%, P<0.05). In the second experiment thirteen cows 5 days postpartum, were treated with 500 ml of "Ergogen Complex"(Group 1). Twenty control cows (Group 2) were treated with saline. In Group 2 fat content of milk (3.82 %) was lower compared to controls in Group 2 (3.96%). However, in Group 2 milk protein increased on 0.33% ( P<0.01) and lactose on 1.23 % (P<0.05) compared to controls in Group 2. Milk yield was comparable in both groups. Our study demonstrated that there was no correlation between milk microflora and milk composition. The treatment with "Ergogen Complex" had positive influence on udder microflora species. Before treatment coagulase-negative staphylococci were isolated in 79.9% and S. dysgalactiae in 21.1% of samples, and after treatment in 13.3% and 2.3% of samples, respectively. Concentration of HB was statistically correlated with fat content of milk. The results from this study indicate that pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of ketosis :Ergogen Complex" has a potential value to improve quality of milk in cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was carried out to study the levels of glucose, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, proteins and enzymes in blood, and serum hydroxybutyrate (Hb) levels and milk composition. Seventy highly productive dairy cows from 5 dairy farms were selected. The median serum Hb was 1,23 mmol/L for all cows, with a range from 0.62 to 1. 5 mmol/L. In 57.7% of cows serum Hb level was 1,2 mmol/L or higher. (Level over 1.2 mmol/l of Hb is proper trait of ketosis). Both milk fat percent and milk lactose percent, blood glucose and serum enzymes were significantly associated with subclinical ketosis. In case of subclinical ketosis the following parameters were determined: milk fat 4.9 - 5.4%, milk lactose 4.0 - 4.19%, milk urea nitrogen 20 - 21 mg%, milk proteins 3.36 - 4.14%, SCC over 300 000 ml-1, blood proteins 77.1 - 78.0 g/l, Hb 1.1 - 3 mmol/l, calcium 2.017 - 2.15 mmol/l, glucose 1.5 - 1.7mmol/l, magnesium 0.89 - 0.9 mmol/l, phosphorum 1.91 - 2.03 mmol/l, enzymes activity GOT 109 - 134, GPT - 23 - 26. Ten cows with subclinical ketosis were treated for 10 days with daily doses of 250 g of propylene glycol which was fed with the concentrate mixture. Changes in blood metabolites and milk composition were measured 10 and 20 days after treatment. Ten cows were treated 7 days with daily doses of 12 g nicotinic acid (niacin). Cows following treatment displayed a negative blood hydroxybutyrate test, reduced milk fat, hypoglycemia. After treatment with niacin amount of milk lactose increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of low level laser therapy (LLLT) for pain and inflammation attenuation has been reported in the international literature. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of LLLT on udder health in cattle. For the study Lithuanian Black and White cows in their second to fifth lactation with analogous milk production (5000 – 6000 kg) were selected. The cows were allocated into 4 groups: (1) four cows with elevated milk somatic cell count (over 300000 c/ml) and positive bacterial testing results of milk samples, before 60 DM, (2) eight cows with elevated milk somatic cell count (over 300000 c/ml) and positive bacterial testing results of milk samples after 60 DM, (3) seven healthy cows, (4) 75 cows from 4 commercial dairy herds with elevated somatic milk cell counts (over 300000 c/ml).Were used a series infrared diode laser CTΠ - 8 of near spectrum. The udder of the cow was irradiated once a day for one minute during one week. In all milk samples of irradiated cows, regardless of group, SCC had decreased, showing significant differences after 21 day of irradiation. After irradiation the number of a microbial colonies in cows from groups 1 and 2 had decreased, with a significant effect in the first group. The effect of laser irradiation on microbes is more precise after 21 days. A significant influence of laser irritation on the udders of healthy cows was not established. In conclusion, low level laser therapy on cows with elevated SCC positively influences udder health in cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of subclinical mastitis and reproductive efficiency in dairy cows on the biochemical composition of blood and milk. The experiment was performed at 11 Lithuanian Black and White commercial dairy herds on 2–3 lactations cows during one year period. All cows were divided into 3 groups: healthy cows (Group 1), cows with reproductive efficiency, which were not inseminated during 90 days after parturition (Group 2) and cows with subclinical mastitis (Group 3). The biochemical parameters of blood sera in Groups 1–3 were comparable. Group 3 have shown increased level on 2.6%, 7.8% (p<0.05) and 6.6% (p<0.05) of blood proteins, Ca and milk proteins and decreased amount on 1.5%, 5.5% and 5.1% (p<0.001) of P, MUN and laktose, respectively, compared to Group 1. Group 2 have shown increased on 0.38%, 1,7% (p<0.05) and 7.7% (p<0.001) level of Ca, P and milk proteins and decreased on 1.28%, 8.0% (p<0.05), 17.69%, 6.8% (p<0.001) level of glucose, Mg, MUN and lactose, respectively, compared to Group 1. Our results revealed that results on infertility have higher impact on blood biochemical parameters compared to cows with subclinical mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk active acidity evaluation (hydrogen ions concentration) is considered to be one of the main methods for characterization of whole milk. Commercial indicators intended for acidity evaluation do not correlate with somatic cell count (SCC) and clinical state of the animal. This research was aimed to specify correlation of active milk acidity with milk composition, individual conductance and SCC, and to evaluate indicative testers „pH-Fix 6,0- 7,7“ and „Pehanon“, which are widely used for milk active acidity determination. The research was carried out at the Practical Training and Experimental Center and the Reproductive Laboratory of Lithuanian Veterinary Academy. Fifty samples from healthy cows and fifty samples from cows with mastitis were taken. Milk composition and SCC were determined according to generally accepted methods. Milk active acidity was measured by indicative testers „pH - Fix“ and „Pehanon“. Each tester was used for 100 samples. In order to control milk active acidity evaluation all samples were measured by a pHmeter WTW 526. The resistance of milk was measured by an analogous megaommeter BY-15. A tendency of stronger correlation between active milk acidity and SCC in milk samples was observed in case of mastitis: r = 0.21 ir 0.22 (p < 0.05). It can also be stated, that the resistance of milk sample, particularly in cows with mastitis, correlated with SCC: r= - 0.41 (p < 0.05). As SCC correlated with the acidity, it can be concluded, that milk active acidity is related with the clinical state of an udder. Nevertheless, active acidity defined by a pHmeter weaker correlates with milk protein and lactose in comparison to this parameter measured by indicative testers : r = - 0.44*, r = 0.70** (*p < 0.05, ** p<0.01). The concentration of hydrogen ions in healthy and sick with mastistis cows measuring milk samples by „pH-Fix“ indicator differed from this parameter measured by a pHmeter by 2,75% (p<0.01) and measuring the parameter by an indicator „pehanon“ - by 4,82%, respectively. More objective pH parameters were obtained in case of an indicator „pH-Fix“. The particular conductance of milk is considered to be more discreet sign of mastitis as in sick and healthy cows milk active acidity differs less than milk particular acidity: 3,56%* and 92,3%** (* p<0,01, **p<0,05). The single pH parameter can not be considered fully discreet characteristic of milk quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of successful livestock farming is to quickly breed healthy offspring of good genetic breeds. This can be achieved through the application of innovative, advanced technologies. Embryo transplantation has become one of the most effective methods that can rapidly improve the genetic potential of breeding stock and thus rapidly increase the number of elite stock in the herd (1). As usual, the prevalent sex sorting techniques, even though being used commercially, need to be further refined for mass scale use of sexed sperm. Whereas sperm sorting techniques that are being used commercially have 90% accuracy (2). The problem is that the fertility when using sex-sorted sperm is lower than that when the unsorted sperm is used (3). Many methods of sperm separation (selective fractionation (centrifugation) and swim-up) have been developed to improve sperm quality. Changes in viability/motility and capacitation/acrosome reaction of sex-sorted sperm could be the reason for the reduced initial fertilization rates in in vitro and in vivo studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes of motility and acrosomal reaction during capacitation of sex-sorted and unsorted sperm and difference to cleavage of oocytes fertilization. The ovaries of dairy cows were cut out immediately after slaughter and transported within one hour. The diameter (mm) of various follicles was measured. Quality grading (A, B, C, D) of the oocytes was performed on the basis of cumulus cell development and homogeneity of cytoplasm according to Chaubal et al. (2006) (4). A total of 94 COCs (cumulus cells) were aspirated from 29 ovaries. Only normal COCs were used for maturation. In vitro matured COCs were fertilized with frozen-thawed sex-sorted and unsorted sperm. Frozen sperm from a Holsteins bulls was thawed at 37°C for 40 s. The thawed first group sex-sorted sperm (n = 17 samples) and the second group of unsorted sperm (n = 17 samples) were capacitated 60 min by a swim-up method. After incubation Trypan blue stain was used to evaluate viability and the acrosome status of spermatozoa. Stained sperm was counted and divided in three groups: non-viable (the spermatozoa stained all), hyperactivated, and with acrosomal changes (changes of spermatozoa head membrane). After fertilization, the embryonic cleavage was evaluated within 48 h (cleavage rate). The investigate results show that the sex-sorted sperm shows lower capacitation (10%) and the acrosome reaction (6%) rate than the unsorted sperm. Also, the evaluation of the motility after last centrifugation in the first (sex-sorted) group showed that sperm motility decreased by 15.1%, and in the second (unsorted) group it decreased by 12.5%. After fertilization, a lower cleavage rate was determined in oocytes from the sex-sorted sperm (A class oocytes - 37.63% and B class oocytes - 25.84%) and the unsorted sperm (A class oocytes - 47.36% and B class oocytes - 42.1%). In conclusion, this study shows that the unsorted spermatozoa were most suitable for in vitro fertilization of A and B grade oocytes. The comparison of oocytes group results shows that inferior quality oocytes require more motility spermatozoa to fertilize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-yielding dairy cows suffer from negative energy balance (NEB) during the first weeks of lactation (1). The NEB depends on zootechnical factors and seasonality. The effect of seasons on cows is controversial, some authors argue that seasons affect the health and reproductive performance of cows (2). The main sign to determine NEB can be evaluated by ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration in cows' blood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the influence of seasonality on BHB at the early postpartum period and reproduction performance of dairy cows. The experiment was carried out on 1200 dairy cows. Blood samples were taken from the ear vein at 7-10 DIM in the mornings after milking, and the level of BHB (mmol/L) was determined in different seasons. The number of cows with higher concentration of blood BHB (> 1.2 mmol/L) had a tendency to increase in cold seasons of the year: 28.57% of all cows had increased blood BHB more often in winter (X2 = 12.857, df = 1, P < 0.001) and 41.43% in autumn (X2 = 2.057, df = 1, P > 0.05). An average blood BHB concentration in cows was 11.14% higher in summer and autumn than in other seasons (P < 0.05). The number of inseminations depends on blood BHB concentration. Four times inseminated cows had 22.27% higher blood BHB concentration than single inseminated cows (P < 0.001), and 23.77% higher than double inseminated cows (P < 0.001). The first insemination time correlated with blood BHB (r = 0.176; P < 0.001). In conclusion, the season affects the distribution of cows with elevated and average BHB concentration and has influence on insemination rate and first insemination time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of corpus luteum (CL) on the developmental potential of cows oocytes. The ovaries of dairy cows were cut out immediately after slaughter and transported within one hour. After ovarian classification based on presence or absence of CL. We selected follicles which diameter, were medium (6- 9 mm). Quality grading (A, B) of the oocytes was performed on the basis of cumulus cell development and homogeneity of cytoplasm according to Chaubal et al. (2006). A total of 125 COCs were aspirated from 124 ovaries. Among 72 COCs were aspirated of ovaries presence of CL, and 53 COCs absence of CL. Only Grade A and B oocytes COCs were used for maturation. A higher percentage of oocytes was collected from medium size follicles of ovaries with presence of corpus luteum (34.15 percent) than absence of corpus luteum (p<0.05). In ovaries group with presence of CL, COCs matured 84.72 percent (Grade A and B). In ovaries group with absence of CL, COCs matured 64.15 percent (Grade A and B). A significant difference was detected between the presence and absence of CL group (p<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research: to assess changes in milk yield, animal activity, and milk conductivity before clinical diagnosis of ketosis, and acidosis. For the purpose of the present research, in total 90 fresh dairy cows were selected (up to 60 days-in-milk). They were grouped according to the disease as follows: cows with ketosis (n = 30), acidosis (n = 30), and control group, i.e., healthy cows (n = 30). The parameters recorded by the herd management software were analyzed for 12 days before clinical diagnosis of the disease and during its course. In cows sick with ketosis the milk yield showed a tendency of most significant decrease 8 days before clinical symptoms. On the day of disease detection, the activity was found to increase by 21.5 %, when compared to the day 12 before emergence of clinical symptoms of the disease (p<0.0001), however this increase was most pronounced 2 days before the detection of the disease (3.1-3.7 %; p<0.001). The major increase in milk conductivity was observed 2 days before the emergence of clinical symptoms (3.1-3.7 %; p<0.001). In cows sick whit acidosis the milk yield tended to decrease most significantly 6 days (p<0.01) before the emergence of clinical symptoms. The variation of animal activity in the period under research was diverse. Its significant increase was observed 2 days before the emergence of clinical symptoms of the disease (y = 2.9x + 20.667; R2 = 0.839). Starting with days 6-7 before the detection of disorders under consideration, a gradual increase in milk conductivity was observed. Indicators recorded by the herd management software and assessed during the period of investigation are considered to serve as the diagnostic algorithm for ketosis and acidosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate milk production and age impact on ovarian activity in postpartum period. The material for this study were collected from 32 clinically healthy holsteinizated cows which were selected by days average after parturition, by daily milk production and by age. Cows were divided into groups: by milk production (production average of 14-21 days postpartum) analogue of age: 1) < 30 l (N=14), 2) 31-40 l (N=13), 3) > 41 l (N=5); by age analogue of production: 1) I lactation (N=5), 2) II lactation (N=17), 3) III lactation (N=10). Ultrasound of reproductive system were performed with Caresono HD 9300 VET to track dynamic of ovarian size and changes of functional units. Rectal examination were performed 6 time repeated for each cow every 7±1.5 days. It was found that dynamic of ovarian size depend on productivity in postpartum period (P<0.001) also dynamic of reproductive system is better expressed when productivity higher. Cows with the medium and high yield maximum size of ovary reach at 22-29 days postpartum. It was found that dynamic of right ovary area depend on the cow age (P<0.05). It also was found that cows with productivity >41 l per day follicles begin develop from 14-21 days when with low and medium yield from 6-13 days postpartum. Regardless of productivity corpus luteum begin develop from 6-13 day. During 22-29 days postpartum follicles begin develop for the first lactation cows and during 6-13 - for second and third lactation, and regardless of cow age corpus luteum begin growth during 6-13 days postpartum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

to expand knowledge of dependence of these traits as a way to reduce mortality of calves. The research was carried out at the Laboratory of Establishment of Animal Breeding Value and Selection of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Records of stillbirth (SB) and calving ease (CE) were obtained from the Centre of State Rural Business Development. In the analysis, stillbirth was defined as a dead born calf or a calf that died within 24 hours after birth. Calving ease was measured on a scale from 0 (no difficulty) to 4 (difficult birth). The calving scores and stillbirths of Black and White cattle recorded since 1981 were used in the evaluation. The dataset had 872,565 records. The SB was estimated to be 5.3% (first-lactation heifer stillbirth rates are higher 0.5-2% than multiparous cows). Analysis of CE showed that 41.6% of cows calving were evaluated without difficulty and 0.3% of cows as difficult births. Difficult calvings are much more common in the first-calf heifers than in older cows. The data of the investigation highlight the dependence of SB on CE of cows, (P<0.0001): the majority (89.6%) of SB were observed in cows with evaluated CE score from 3 to 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to evaluate milk flow traits of Lithuanian Black and White dairy cows and to estimate their dependence on genotype according to the Holstein breed degree and relation to the productivity of milk. The study was performed on a total of 314 Lithuanian Black and White cows during their 2-4 months of lactation. Sixteen milk flow traits were evaluated with LactoCorder®. The average milk yield of cows was 13.346±0.222 kg, milk flow 2.174±0.036 kg/min-1, and the highest milk flow rate 3.319±0.052 kg/min-1. The average duration of the incline phase was 0.788±0.022 min, the duration of the plateau phase was 2.220±0.075 min, and the duration of the decline phase was 3.251±0.123 min. The increase of the Holstein breed degree showed a positive relation with milking speed and milk yield (P<0.01) and a negative relation with bimodality (P<0.0001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of biostimulant „Laktosol-K“ on milk yield, milk composition and reproductive performance of dairy cows. The experiment was carried out in March-June in 3 dairy farms of Lithuania. 68 cows with 5000-6000 kg milk yield in their third and fourth lactation were selected. Cows were divided into two groups: experimental (n=45), where cows were given a diet with 12 ml of the supplement ''Laktosol-K'' from 5 days after calving for 60 consecutive days, and control group, where cows received physiological saline instead of the supplement. Nutrition in both groups was organized equally. Milk samples were taken from 5 days after calving until the 90 days in milk. Milk yield, somatic cell count, lactose, protein, fat and urea concentration were measured. Milk protein and fat ratio, reproduction indices - service period and index of insemination were calculated. There was no positive effect on milk yield. The milk of experimental group contained by 0.35 percent more milk fat 30 days and by 0.63 percent more milk fat 60 days after calving , The content of protein 30 days after calving was by 0.36 percent higher (p<0.05). Milk urea nitrogen concentration 60 days pospartum was by 28.15 percent lower in milk of experimental group (p<0.05) compared with the control group. Cows index of insemination in the experimental group was by 25.15 percent lower (p<0.001) compared with the control cows. At the beginning of lactation, the ratio closer to 0,8 specifies positive influence on metabolism of albumins and carbohydrates. The tested preparation, judging by the lactation curve, has a positive effect on cow's physiological processes. At the beginning of lactation, higher protein-fat ratio in the experimental group shows more optimal protein-carbohydrate metabolic status. According to these results, it is suggested that the preparation optimizes metabolism and can be used as a supplement in the early lactation diet. Keywords: biostimulant, cow milk composition, service period, insemination index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of performed study was to determine milk urea (MU) heritability coefficient and to evaluate influence of non-genetic factors. In the population of Lithuanian dairy cattle was determined the marked fenotipic variation (Cv=61.99-68.42%) of urea concentration in cows milk and statistically significant influence of year, season, month and farm (p<0.001). The highest level of urea in cows milk was determinated in autumn (22.8±0.010mg%), particularly in September (24.8±0.017 mg%). The MU at the pasturable time was on 16.5% higher than at stable period (p<0.001). It was observed the statistically significant tendency of MU decrease in cows milk in rising of lactation (p<0.001). The MU at third and upper lactations was on 9.8% and on 11.4% lower compared to second and first lactation. The MU of congenerous coupling cows in average was statistically significantly on 6.7% higher (p<0.001), compared to cows of unrelated coupling. It was determinated that MU heritability coefficient in Lithuanian cows population ranged from 0.182 to 0.205. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation evaluated the correlation between lactose content in milk and cows productivity, and milk composition. In addition, the relationship between lactose content in milk and reproductive traits of the cows, and the heritability of lactose content in cows milk were estimated. Correlation between lactose content (%) and amount of milk was statistically significant slightly positive (r=0.206; p<0.01). Comparable results were determined between lactose content in milk and milk fat content (r=0.105; p<0.01). Correlation between lactose content and milk protein content was statistically significant slightly negative (r=-0.128; p<0.001). Negative average on phenotypical correlation was estimated between lactose content and somatic cell count in milk (from r= -0.36 to -0.588) Average negative statistically significant correlation between lactose content in cows milk and servis period was estimated (r=-0.401; p<0.01). Average negative correlation coefficient between two calving period and lactose content in milk (r=-0.368; p<0.01) was estimated. Slight negative statistically significant correlation between insemination index and lactose content in milk was recorded (r=-0.175; p<0.01). Heritability coefficient (h²) of lactose content in cow's milk was 0.279±0.001 and average negative genetic correlation between somatic cell counts and lactose content in milk was registered (rg = -0.43; p<0.01). These findings suggest possibilities of cows selection according lactose content in milk. Selection based on lactose content could help to increase the effectiveness of selection of cows according somatic cells count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]