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Frequent phlebotomies, even when only a small volume of blood is taken for diagnostic purposes, can lead to the development of iron deficiency with hematological and metabolic changes. The study aimed to determine the influence of frequent blood loss by phlebotomy on blood iron concentration (Fe), hematology, metabolic and endocrine parameters and their relationships. Blood samples were collected from 30 blood donor rams for 6 consecutive weeks, with approximately 10% of blood collected weekly. Such chronic blood loss resulted in a decrease in Fe. Indicators of iron transport in the bloodstream changed, so the value of total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) increased, while the value of transferrin saturation percentage (TS%) decreased. Hematological changes included a decrease in red blood cells, hemoglobin, mean red blood cell volume and hematocrit and a tendency for reticulocyte count and red cell distribution width to increase. Chronic blood loss resulted in a specific metabolic response that included the increase in glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate-aminotransferase, and insulin resistance, while thyroxine, triiodothyronine and cortisol decreased and there was a tendency for lactate to increase and BHB to decrease. The mentioned blood parameters correlated with Fe and additionally showed greater changes when Fe was extrapolated to the level of clinical deficit (Fe=9μmol/L). These correlations suggest the need to monitor the metabolic and endocrine status during chronic blood loss, in addition to Fe and erythrocyte indices. Compared with previous results in other animal species, Fe may have a direct influence on metabolic processes in rams.

The climatic conditions in Serbia are suitable for the development of heat stress in cows. The values of the bioclimatic THI indicator point to a positive trend in increase in the number of days during which the conditions for the occurrence of heat stress are present. In cows, a change in body temperature is noted, activation of the cooling mechanisms, along with reduced milk production and reproductive efficiency. The behavioral changes of cows occur on farms, and the level of welfare decreases slightly when measured according to animal-based criteria. Changes in productivity are mainly related to metabolic, hematological and inflammatory adaptations. The metabolic adaptation that leads to a decrease in milk production is related to an increase in sensitivity to insulin with reduced lipolysis, an increase in TNF-a in cows, as well as to metabolic rearrangements of the mammary gland. Reproductive efficiency is reduced and is characterized by reduced expression of estrus and reduced response to estrus induction procedures. High ambient temperatures, in in vitro conditions, can affect the stability of laboratory parameters in the blood serum of cows. Cows exhibit different profiles of resilience to heat stress, and the study of resilience curves, for productive and blood parameters, represents the starting point for selecting cows that will tolerate heat stress better. For this purpose, the cumulative effects of heat stress expressed in the area under the resilience curve can be used. Certain precautionary measures such as providing shade, cooling by using fans and sprinklers or some other advanced technological methods, can reduce losses during heat stress. All of the above indicate that it is necessary to pay extra attention to all aspects of health care and production on cow farms in Serbia during late spring and summer when the animals are exposed to heat stress.

The hygienic condition of dairy cows and their udders in 128 small household farms in different regions of Serbia, producing mostly milk, having 5-15 cows, a milk cooler and at least one milking machine, was evaluated by the following indicators: 1. general assessment of body cleanliness, 2. visual inspection of teats and udder base, and 3. maintenance of udder cleanliness, rated on a scale of 0 and 1 or 1 to 5. The samples were taken at each visit to the farm after cooling and tested for milk protein and fat content, somatic cell count (SCC) and the total number of microorganisms (TNM). The milk fat content was determined by the Gerber method, the protein content by the Kjeldahl method, the TNM according to the ISO 4833-1:2013 method and the SCC using Fossomatic TM. The IBM SPSS program was used for statistical data processing. Capacity, housing system, breed, milking system, number of cows, and capacity occupancy mostly had a very significant or significant impact on hygiene parameters, protein and fat content, SCC and TNM in milk. The hygiene parameters showed a continuous trend of improvement in relation to the visits. TNM mean scores increased after each visit, with significant differences between visits (F=9.63, P

The reproductive efficiency of the cows was monitored after two resynchronization protocols: Ovsynch (OVS) and Double Ovsynch (DOS). The research initially included 70 HF cows who entered the first synchronization protocol – Presynch. Cows that did not conceive after the first synchronization were divided into two groups and introduced to two resynchronization protocols. In the first group of cows (n=35), the DOS protocol began with the application of GnRH on day 22 after the Presynch TAI (Timed Artificial Insemination), and seven days later pregnancy check-up was done and PGF2α was applied only to non-pregnant cows (n=23), which remained in the study. In the second group of cows, the OVS protocol started on day 32 after Presynch TAI only in non-pregnant animals (n=20). Progesterone (P4) concentration was determined at the time of application of GnRH1, PGF2α and GnRH2 in both groups of cows, and then 30 days after Resynch TAI, ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis was done. A higher percentage of pregnant cows were recorded in the OVS group compared to the DOS group (45% and 35%, respectively). The concentration of P4 in the serum of cows in the DOS group during the first measurement (GnRH1) was significantly higher than the value in cows that did not conceive (p

The Total Bacterial Count (TBC) and the Somatic Cells Count (SCC) in the milk are important indicators of its hygiene and quality. Hygienic conditions in barns, milking procedures, udder hygiene before, during and after milking, milking machine hygiene, as well as milk cooling procedures immediately after milking, have direct or indirect influences on milk hygiene indicators. Poor results of milk hygiene quality, when it comes to SCC and TBC, which are often seen in dairy cattle farms in our country, indicate numerous omissions before and during milking. To determine the possibility of improving milk hygiene quality, training of extension service professionals and farmers was conducted, corrective and preventive measures were determined and the achieved state was monitored on 128 dairy farms where SCC and TBC were observed at regular monthly intervals for 6 months. The results showed a continuous statistically very significant improvement in hygienic conditions in barns, milking procedures, udder hygiene before, during and after milking, milking machine hygiene, as well as milk cooling procedures. This has contributed to a statistically very significant improvement in the hygienic quality of milk, both in SCC and TBC indicators, continuously from month to month, with a visible improvement at the end related to the beginning of the study period. At the begining and the end of survey 19.7% and 50.0% of milk samples belong to 1st class of milk quality, respectively, indicating a significant improvement after implementation of corrective measurements.

The aim of this research was to examine the relation between body and metabolic parameters in 105 young Holstein-Friesian cows in the period before puberty and locomotion score (LS) in the first lactation. During the examination of heifers (6-12 months of age) body condition score (BCS), body measurements and growth rate were determined. The blood to determine metabolic and hematology profile. The LS was evaluated monthly during the first five months after calving. Multivariate analysis and principal component analysis stated that selected body conformation parameters, blood parameters and LS were interrelated. Simple linear trends and/or complex LS prediction models indicated a positive correlation between values of LS and BCS, body growth, bilirubin, aspartate-aminotransferase, glucose, calcium, nonesterified fatty acid, leukocytes, granulocytes and negative correlation with albumin and cholesterol (P<0.01). A positive correlation existed between LS in different months of the study (P<0.001). Prediction of LS was significantly better (P<0.0001) using complex models (r=0.736-0.905) that include body measures, blood parameters, and LS in the first month compared to models with individual parameters (r=0.547-0.757). Predetermination of cows that will develop lameness problems such as LS>2 or LS>2 using two consecutive measurements are possible based on metabolic parameters. LS and lameness occurrence in the first lactation could be predicted in heifers very early, even before reaching sexual maturity, using blood parameters and body measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The metabolic profile implies simultaneous determination of carbohydrate, fat, protein, and mineral metabolism parameters as well as endocrinological parameters in the blood of cows. Blood is exposed to a variety of preanalytical factors during sampling, transport to the laboratory, and laboratory preparation for analysis, which may cause hemolysis of the sample. As hemolysis affects the values of the metabolic profile, the analyzed blood parameters may falsely increase or decrease, and the metabolic status of the cows may be misinterpreted. Preventing hemolysis is important because severe hemolysis requires discarding the sample and resampling, which is very resource-intensive. In this paper, three levels of hemolysis were determined for each blood parameter tested: (a) a hemolysis level that does not affect the values of the parameters and allows the results to be issued without restriction; (b) a hemolysis level that affects the values of the parameters but remains within the acceptable biological variability and permits the results to be issued along with a note in the form of a correction formula; and (c) a hemolysis level at which the obtained values of the parameters or the entire sample must be discarded. The results are presented graphically using interferograms, which can be easily implemented in every laboratory after validation. Hemolysis is a common cause of errors in laboratory tests as it affects blood parameters and leads to a positive or negative bias. This study aims to examine the relationship between the level of hemolysis (expressed as cell-free hemoglobin concentration, g/L) and the variability of metabolic and endocrine parameters and to determine the threshold level of hemolysis that causes an analytically and clinically significant bias for the twenty most frequently examined blood parameters in cows. Paired blood samples of 10 mL each were obtained from 30 cows. One was subjected to mechanical trauma and plasma was extracted directly from the other. Hemolyzed and non-hemolyzed samples from the same animal were mixed to obtain final samples with cell-free hemoglobin concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 g/L. Metabolic and endocrine parameters were measured in the samples and their deviation and the linear equation between the level of hemolysis and the deviation were determined. The following threshold values of hemolysis were determined, which correspond to the acceptable analytical (lower value) and clinical (upper value) levels of parameter variability: BHB 0.96 and 4.81; NEFA 0.39 and 3.31; GLU 0.38 and 3.90; ALB 1.12 and 6.11; TPROT 1.40 and 6.80; UREA 6.62 and 20.1; TBIL 0.75 and 5.65; AST 0.11 and 2.18; GGT 1.71 and 8.90, LDH 0.01 and 0.11, ALP 0.97 and 2.95; TGC 1.56 and 15.5; CHOL 1.29 and 8.56; Ca 5.68 and 25.7; P 0.57 and 8.43; Mg 1.10 and 8.47; INS 1.15 and 3.89; T3 8.19 and 15.6; T4 8.97 and 18.5; and CORT 2.78 and 11.22 g/L cell-free hemoglobin. Three decision levels are available for each metabolic and endocrine parameter: if hemolysis is below the lower (analytical) threshold value, results can be reported without restriction; if hemolysis is between the lower and upper thresholds, the results can be issued with guidance in the form of corrective linear equations; and if hemolysis is above the upper (clinical) threshold, the results and sample must be discarded. This method contributes to an optimal approach to hemolysis interference with metabolic profile parameters in blood samples from cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male piglets are castrated primarily to avoid the unpleasant boar taint in meat, and additionally for the predisposition of castrates to accumulate fat and for their lower risk of developing unwanted behaviours. There are two main strategies available for withdrawing from surgical castration: one is immunocastration and the other is to raise entire male pigs or boars. Additionally, raising intact boars is more profitable because of the production of carcasses with lean meat and better feed conversion. Boars (compared to castrates) exhibit more aggressive, sexual, damaging social behaviour and reduced feeding behaviour with a lower prevalence of sickness behaviour as a result of good health and low susceptibility to chronic inflammation. In this review, the behaviours specific for boars as a result of sexual maturity are reviewed, with an overview of differences in the behaviour of surgically castrated barrows, immunocastrates and boars reared in group-housed systems. The raising of boars allows for good welfare of these animals in early life, but later, on reaching sexual maturity, the welfare of boars can be diminished because of their propensity to aggression and more mounting behaviour than castrates. Innovations in the breeding and management of boars are needed to improve their performance and to reduce welfare implications of these animals raised in social groups, and in particular to minimize deviant behaviours towards pen mates.

The aim of this study is to examine the interrelationships and importance of biochemical and endocrine blood parameters in the assessment of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) values in healthy and ketotic cows using multiparameter statistics. The experiment included 45 Holstein Friesian cows (22 healthy and 23 with ketosis). The criterion used for detecting ketosis was the value of BHB ˃1.2 mmol/L. Based on laboratory indicators, cows were precisely classified into two large clusters: a cluster of healthy cows and a cluster of cows suffering from ketosis with minimal mixing of individual cows between clusters. Metabolic parameters were divided into two large clusters: parameters whose values increased in ketosis and decreased in healthy animals and parameters whose values decreased in ketosis and increased in healthy individuals. In ketotic cows there was a higher expression of non-esterified fatty acids, total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, insulin and growth hormone, and a lower expression of glucose, albumin, triglycerides, cholesterol and total lipids compared to the healthy group. In 3 cows with ketosis, greater metabolic similarity with healthy cows was found, because of the absence of pronounced changes in the concentration of hormones and glucose. Thyroxine and triiodothyronine showed either increased or decreased expression in ketotic cows. In cows with lower values of these hormones, there were more pronounced metabolic changes characteristic of ketosis. For the development of metabolic adaptations to ketosis, in addition to hyperketonemia, there must be endocrine changes and changes in glycemia.

The purpose of this paper is to determine the reference ranges for hematological, biochemical and endocrinological parameters in the blood of the commercial F1 Landrace x Yorkshire and Yorkshire x Landrace piglets aged 1 and 21 days. A total of 72 animals were enrolled in this study. The following reference ranges were determined for the blood parameters considered (day 1 vs. day 21): WBC 10.0-12.4 vs. 11.5-13.7 × 109/L; RBC 3.72-4.06 vs. 5.25-5.73 × 1012/L; HGB 71.4-79.0 vs. 100-110 g/L; HCT 24.4-26.5 vs. 35.7-39.1 %; MCV 64.4-66.0 vs. 72.7-74.8 fL; MCH 20.9-21.7 vs. 24.7-25.6 pg; MCHC 321-329 vs. 367-378 g/L; AST 78.5-98.9 vs. 51.8-66 U/L; ALT 72.5-84.5 vs. 65.9-76.5 U/L; CHOL 2.41-2.71 vs. 3.81-4.27 mmol/L; TGC 1.55-1.93 vs. 1.85-2.25 mmol/L; GLU 5.58-6.24 vs. 5.97-6.67 mmol/L; TPROT 55.2-59.4 vs. 65-69.9 g/L; ALB 13.4-15.1 vs. 27.8-30.9 g/L, GLOB 41.3-44.8 vs. 35.3-40.9 g/L; UREA mmol/L; TBIL 36.6-44.5 vs. 29.4-40.8 μmol/L; ALFAAMYLASE 897-998 vs. 851-949 U/L; LIPASE 74.1-79.7 vs. 88.3-98.1 U/L; CORT 140-196 vs. 41.4-63.8 ng/mL; INSUL 4.04-5.68 vs. 1.71-2.41 μU/L. The RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, and MCHC values recorded were found to be higher in the piglets aged 21 days than those in the piglets aged 1 day. The total leukocyte count did not differ between the experimental groups. Lower AST, ALT, globulin, cortisol and insulin values were detected in the piglets aged 21 days than those in the piglets aged 1 day. However, the values of triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin and lipase were found to be higher in the piglets aged 21 days than those in the piglets aged 1 day. The glucose, alpha amylase and total bilirubin (TBIL) values did not differ significantly between the experimental groups. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test conducted shows that there are significant differences in the frequency distribution of most of the blood parameters tested in the pigs aged 1 and 21 days, which confirms that a separate reference interval must be determined and applied to the respective piglet ages considered. The establishment of reference values for different age categories can facilitate the assessment of health status and productive performance of farm piglets.

Pramenka is a breed of sheep widely distributed on the Balkan Peninsula (over 30 strains). A number of factors affect hematological and biochemical parameters in sheep blood such as breed, age, sex, region, season and health. The aim of this paper is to determine reference ranges for hematological and selected biochemical parameters in the blood of Bosnian Pramenka rams. The experiment included 362 blood samples. The rams were healthy, and were raised under farm conditions in Banat (Serbia). The blood was collected by puncture of v. jugularis, in vacuum cleaners with a purple stopper (EDTA, for hematological analysis) and with a yellow stopper (for biochemical analysis). The reference intervals of the blood parameters in Bosnian Pramenka rams were: WBC 4.34-17.0 ×109/mL; RBC 4.34-17.0×1012/mL; HGB 72.73-119.8 g/L; HTC 21.97-36.77 %; MCV 26.55-34.23 fL; MCH 8.57-11.34 pg; MCHC 311.32-345.16 g/L; PLT 118-556.45 ×109/mL; TPROT 56.53-70.51 g/L; ALB 29.81-40.05 g/L; GLOB 22.13-35.05 g/L; UREA 2.25-9.57 mmol/L; TBIL 2.21-11.35 mmol/L; GLU 2.41-6.93 mmol/L; CHOL 0.93-1.91 mmol/L; AST 58-244 IU/L; BHB 0.18-0.54 mmol/L and LDH 172-455 IU/L. Normal frequency distribution was determined for RBC, HTC, PLT, ALB, GLOB and CHOL, while other parameters did not have a normal frequency distribution. A positive correlation was found between body weight and RBC and HGB values, and a negative correlation between body weight and WBC and BHB values. The obtained reference values will be helpful in interpreting the health and productive status of the Bosnian Pramenka population. Further studies should focus on ewes and lambs, as well as on the deviation of blood parameters in the case of various diseases.

The aim of this research was to determine seroprevalence of infection caused by PCV2 in different categories of pigs on the territory of Vojvodina. The research was conducted on 6 pig farms placed in different locations on the territory of Vojvodina (two farms from the territory of Bačka, Banat and Srem, respectively), with the capacity from 500 to 2,500 sows with intensive management, closed type. Blood samples from brachioce­phalic plexus were collected from 540 pigs in three different categories, in suckling piglets between 3 and 4 weeks of age, in weaned piglets from 8 to 9 weeks of age, and in fattening pigs between 20 and 22 weeks of age. Specific anti-PCV2 antibodies are determined by using indirect ELISA. Based on our results, we conclude that PCV2 infections are widely spread on the territory of Vojvodina, with total seroprevalence of 74.8%. The highest value of seroprevalence is determined in category of fattening pigs 86%, in suckling piglets this was 74.5%, while in weaned piglets seroprevalence was 65.3%. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. TR31034]

Introduction. The aim of this study was to determine and compare levels of blood serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium in the peripartal period and during mid lactation in Holstein dairy cattle. Materials and Methods. Blood samples were collected from 12 cows in late pregnancy, 12 early lactation cows, and 12 mid lactation cows. Results and Conclusions. Serum calcium and inorganic phosphorus in blood of dairy cows in early and mid lactation were significantly lower compared to the values in the blood serum of dairy cows in late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of these macro elements by the mammary gland at the early stages of lactation. When the cows were in the lactation period, blood serum magnesium levels were significantly lower compared to the values of dairy cows during late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of magnesium by the dairy cows during lactation. The results show that the homeostasis of the macro elements examined in the blood of transition and mid lactation dairy cows was maintained, suggesting their adequate supply from alimentary sources.

Ketosis is a common disease in high producing dairy cows during the early lactation period. Subclinical ketosis (SCK) and periparturient diseases considerably account for economic and welfare losses in dairy cows. Subclinical ketosis poses an increased risk of production-related diseases such as clinical ketosis, displaced abomasum, retained placenta, lameness, mastitis and metritis. Production efficiency decreases (lower milk production, poor fertility, and increased culling rates), which results in economic losses. Increased concentrations of circulating ketone bodies, predominantly β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), without the presence of clinical signs of ketosis are considered as SCK. It is characterized by increased levels of ketone bodies in the blood, urine and milk. The gold standard test for ketosis is blood BHB. This ketone body is more stable in blood than acetone or acetoacetate. The most commonly used cut-points for subclinical ketosis are 1.2 mmol/L or 1.4 mmol/L for BHB in the blood. Clinical ketosis generally involves much higher levels of BHB, about 3.0 mmol/L or more. Usually, detection of SCK is carried out by testing ketone body concentrations in blood, urine and milk. A variety of laboratory and cowside tests are available for monitoring ketosis in dairy herds.Butno cowside test has perfect sensitivity and specificity compared to blood BHB as the gold standard test. The aim of this review is to overview diagnostic tests for SCK in dairy cows, including laboratory and cowside tests.

Insulin resistance is a state in which the biological effect of insulin is reduced when its concentration decreases or when a compensatory mechanism increases its concentration. Insulin resistance is characterized by reduced insulin response to glucose, i.e. decreased pancreatic beta cell function (insulin hyporesponsiveness) and/or reduced sensitivity of glucose to insulin (reduced intake of glucose by peripheral tissues under the influence of insulin - eng. insulin sensitivity). Methods for estimating insulin resistance include direct methods (hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp, golden standard), indirect methods (intravenous glucose tolerance test) and surrogate methods (indices calculated from basal concentrations of insulin, glucose, NEFA and BHB-HOMA, QUICKI, RQUICKI and RQUICKI- BHB). Surrogate indices show correlations with direct and indirect test results but they are inconsistent. Inconsistency occurs because the dependence of glucose concentrations on the degree of hepatic gluconeogenesis should be kept in mind when evaluating insulin resistance in ruminants. Therefore, the hyperinsulinaemic-euglicaemic clamp method is particularly suitable as it excludes gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes from analysis. Our results have shown a correlation between HOMA, QUICKI and RQUICKI indices and metabolic profile parameters. The correlation between dynamic and basal responses of NEFA, BHB, insulin, glucose and inorganic phosphorus is significantly dependent on RQUICKI-BHB index values in ketotic cows. RQUICKI index of insulin resistance is substantially dependent on NEFA values in early lactation as well as on insulin and glucose values in the dry period. Further investigations should focus on the practical evaluation of the use of insulin resistance indices.

Niacin is a reactive part of NAD and NADP, which are co-enzymes in numerous oxidative and reductive reactions. In early lactation, there is an increased lipid mobilization, accompanied by inflammatory response and oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of niacin administration in cows during early lactation in reducing lipid peroxidation i.e. MDA (malondialdehyde) concentration. Niacin was administered through feed two weeks before and two weeks after calving. Blood samples were taken in the week preceding calving and in the first and second week after calving. MDA concentration was significantly lower in cows receiving niacin compared to the control group during all three samplings: 1.89±0.33:1.42±0.13 (calving, week 0); 2.37±0.41:1.64±0.15 (first week) and 2.6±0.45:1.8±0.17µmol/L (second week). In control cows, no significant correlation between MDA and NEFA concentrations was found compared to cows fed niacin. In cows receiving niacin, the concentration of MDA linearly increased, as did the NEFA concentration. Niacin supplementation in early lactation can decreaselipid peroxidation in cows. Reduced lipid peroxidation in cows can be a consequence of the antilipolytic effect of niacin.

Measurement of lean meat on slaughter line and formation of price on the basis significantly contribute to the overall improvement of the quality and profitability of production and distribution of pork. The content of lean meat on live pigs was measured on farm using ultrasound device PIGLOG 105. While in slaughterhouse, the content of lean meat measured using Fat-O-Meater (FOM), two-point method (TP) and partial dissection. 59.30% of lean meat in vivo was estimated by the apparatus PIGLOG-105 one day before slaughter. It is 0.91% more then partial dissection and when compared to FOM and TP it is more 4.86% and 4.02%. Great deviation between PIGLOG-105 on one side and FOM and TP on other side indicated some error, and then partial dissection solved this mystery. After this study, slaughterhouse constructed new formulas for FOM in pig carcass classification. Regarding that, slaughterhouses which used FOM or similar equipment for measuring percentage of lean meat, should control results of the equipment described in this study, minimum twice a year.

Peripartal metabolic stress is characterized by increased lipid mobilization, when non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) are increased, as well as by increased ketogenesis, when the concentration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is increased. NEFA are metabolized in all tissues but the main organ is the liver. Possible processes are: a) complete oxidation of NEFA, b) partial oxidation and synthesis of ketone bodies (BHB), c) development of triglycerides from NEFA that can be transported or stay in the liver when fatty liver is apparent. Moreover, increased lipolysis and ketogenesis can cause oxidative stress because concentrations of MDA and/or TBARS are positively correlated with NEFA and BHB concentrations. The increase in NEFA during the peripartal period affects the cellular immunologic response by changing intracellular signals, gene expressing control, activation of transcriptional factors, apoptosis induction and by modifying mediators of lipid production. Increased proportion of cows with high NEFA and BHB concentrations in the herd can cause reduced milk yield at the end of a standard 305-day lactation. NEFA concentrations can be related to postpartal ovarian activity, especially given that blood NEFA concentrations represent NEFA concentrations in the ovarian follicular fluid. Cows on farms with lower scores of animal welfare and nutrition have higher concentrations of cortisol, NEFA, BHB, bilirubin, glucose and urea. NEFA and BHB concentrations in early lactation can be used for estimating metabolic adaptation in the first 8 weeks after calving. For the estimation of metabolic adaptation, increased lipolysis has a greater significance than decreased anabolic parameters.

Copyright of Veterinary Review / Veterinarski Pregled is the property of University of Novia Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Veterinary Review / Veterinarski Pregled is the property of University of Novia Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Insulin resistance is a phenomenon which accompanies the ongoing metabolic adaptation in cows during early lactation. The aim of our study was to determine the linear correlations of HOMA (Homeostatic Model Assessment), QUICKI (Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) and RQUICKI (Revised Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index) indexes of insulin resistance with the metabolic status of cows (concentration of hormones, metabolites and body condition score). The experiment included 40 Holstein-Frisian cows in the first week after calving. Indexes of insulin resistance valued: 18.68±5.43 (HOMA), 0.39±0.06 (QUICKI) and 0.45±0.06 (RQUICKI). Linear correlations were examined by testing the coefficient of correlation (r), determination (r2,%) and regression parameter beta (b) in linear equation. A negative correlation was found between HOMA and IGF-I (insulin growth factor I) (r=−0.51, r2=25.0, b=−1.1257, p

Domestic spotted cattle of Simmental breed with a combined production capacity is mostly grown in the Republic of Serbia. Considering the Serbia's potential and tradition in production of quality beef meat as food for human consumption and raw material in the food industry and the demand of the EU market, imposes the need for changing the present and adopting new regulations. The quality of the slaughtered animals is a subject of interest, of both primary production and meat industry. Procedure of classification of carcasses is performed in slaughterhouses immediately after a veterinary examination and measurement of carcasses weight. This paper examines the quality of young cattle carcasses in a slaughterhouse in the Raska district, according to the standard applied in the EU but not in Republic of Serbia. Examination has been conducted on 80 cattle carcasses (young bulls) weighing 450 - 550 kg. For the quality evaluation and grading of meat the following parameters according to the European standard for the classification of cattle carcasses (SEUROP) were used: weight of the animal, the category of a slaughtered animal according to the age and physiological state, slaughter weight / carcass weight and randman, i.e. the conformation of the carcass, development of the muscles of the carcass as well as the development of basic parts (leg, back and shoulder) and the degree of carcass fat tissue coverage.

Considering the Serbia's potential and tradition in production of quality beef meat as food for human consumption and raw material in the food industry and the demand of the EU market, shows the need to intensify the production of this foodstuff. Aim of this paper was to analyze the effect of age of young Simmental bulls on dressing percentage in slaughterhouse, according to the standard applied in the EU (Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007, Commission Regulation (EC) No 1249/2008; Commission European, Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development). Regulations that define more precisely the quality of meat are only partially implemented in Serbia (Official Gazette of the SFRY 34/74, 26/75, 13/78). The accuracy of the slaughter processing of carcasses is assessed as adequate in the facility in which the analysis was conducted. The study was conducted on 116 young bulls carcasses, from redemption. Two groups of young bulls (cattle) were formed, first group the age of 269-350 days and second group the age of 351-450 days. The results show that due to the wider age intervals in the second group (351-450 days) the difference in mass of animals before slaughter and carcass weight after primary processing is statistically significant (P 0.05). The obtained results indicate that it is necessary to undertake concrete measures in the primary sector to achieve better yield and meat quality.

The aim of this study is to determine correlation between change in milk production and metabolic adaptation of cows during heat-stress. Experiment included 30 Holstein-Frisian cows. Cows exposed to heat-stress, which is expressed in high THI index, have lower milk production, higher concentration of insulin and lover concentrations of glucose and NEFA. Indexes of insulin resistance-RQUICKI, insulin: glucose and insulin: NEFA relations are higher in cows under heat stress. Grouping cows in accordance to reduced milk yield have showed that trend of reduction of glucose and NEFA levels, followed by increased insulin level, higher RQUICKI, greater insulin: glucose and insulin: NEFA ratios, started and increased during the reduction in milk production. Among this, significant correlation was founded between these parameters and milk yield. Significant correlation was also noted between those parameters. Change in metabolic value is of great importance for prediction of cows that would have decreased milk yield (above 18%). With almost 90% certainty cows with great reduction in milk yield can be detected. These cows have had following relative changes in values of metabolic parameters during heat-stress compared to thermo-neutral period: insulin increased for ≥12.5%, reduction in NEFA values for ≤14.1%, reduction in glucose for 21.5%, RQUICKI index increased for ≥9.6%, insulin: NEFA ratio increased for ≥20.1% and insulin: glucose for ≥20.3%. Dynamical changes in metabolites and insulin resistance values have great influence on milk yield in cows under heat stress. Decreasing in glucoses followed by increased insulin level and increased insulin sensitivity indicate that glucose is transferred from udder to other tissues which can cause decreased milk production.

The aim of this study is to determine value of temperature-humidity index (THI) in period of 2005-2016. in Vojvodina and their correlations with milk production and temperature of body surface of animals. THI index is calculated according to the following formula THI=(1,8×Temperature)-(1-Relative Humidity) × (Temperature- 14,3)+32. Temperature and humidity data were collected directly from Hydrometeorological Institute of Serbia. Average THI values were calculated for every month for every year from 2005 to 2016. Measuring spots were cities Vršac, Zrenjanin, Kikinda, Palić, Sombor, Rimski Šančevi and Sremska Mitrovica. Temperature and humidity are noted at 14h, so they represented maximal average values of THI index. Trend of THI values was represented for each day in every month in years from 2005. to 2016. Average production of drinking milk for year of 2016 was calculated. This year was chosen because is the last year of research and represents cumulative effect of heat stress in cows. Data were collected from Statistic Institute of R. Serbia. Thermo-vision camera was used for determining skin temperature of udder and skin in eye region. Results were showed that temperature ranged from 40.3 in January to 77.5 in July. Average maximal THI value in period of 2005-2016 showed that heat stress was presented in May, June, July and August. Drinking milk production was the greatest in January. After that it started dropping. The lowest production of drinking milk was noted in August with an increase afterwards till December. Body surface temperature was ranged from 34.1 to 38.5ºC. The highest body temperature was measured at August and the lowest in winter time. Significant negative correlation between ten-year average THI value and milk production was noted. Positive correlation was noted between THI and body temperature. From 2005 to 2016 positive linear trend of THI values that were measured in hottest period of day was noted. In every month statistically significant linear trend of rising THI value was founded, except in January, October and November. Extremely hot summers in Serbia appear in every five years when cows are affected the most. Showed data indicated global warming and climate changes which affect biological adaptation of cows.

The objective of this study was to determine correlation between serum blood and milk enzyme activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine- aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline-phosphatase (ALP in the 36 dairy Holstein cows divided into three groups according to production period. Group 1 consisted cows in the start of lactation (n = 12); Group 2 -consisted of early lactation cows (n=12) and Group 3 included mid lactation cows (n=15). Statistically significant higher (P0.05). Research results showed possibility of mild degree of hepatic lesions, probably due to fat infiltration in early lactation cows. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in milk serum value for AST, ALT and ALP between the three groups of cows. No significant correlations among AST, ALT and ALP activities in blood and milk serum were determined (P>0.05) and shows that activity of these enzyme in the milk are not used as markers for early diagnosis of subclinical metabolic disease.

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of hemolysis degrees on the values of hematological and biochemical parameters in the blood samples of cows in early lactation. The study included a total of 45 blood samples of cows in early lactation. Out of the total number of samples analyzed, 15 indicated no signs of hemolysis, whereas 15 indicated moderate hemolysis and 15 severe hemolysis. The influence of hemolysis was examined by determining the bias (%) and by means of the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results showed that the hemolyzed samples had decreased values of the HCT, RBC, MCV, and increased values of the MCH, MCHC, and PLT. The total number of LEU showed a declining trend with increasing degrees of hemolysis. The changes in the HGB values were not detected despite the visual identification. The hemolysis degrees showed a significant influence on the values of biochemical parameters. The variations in biochemical parameters were less significant in the samples with moderate hemolysis compared to the samples with severe hemolysis. The most hemolysis-sensitive biochemical parameters were the AST, TBIL, TGC, and NEFA as great variations of their values were found even in moderate hemolysis. A slight deviation was noted in the BHB and total protein values. With respect to all the parameters examined, the Wilcoxon test showed significant differences in the samples with moderate and severe hemolysis in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, hemolysis significantly influenced the values of hematological and biochemical parameters in the blood samples analyzed.

This study examined the activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) and lactate-dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood serum of 45 dairy Simmental cows divided into three groups according to production period. The first group (n=15) consisted of late pregnant dairy cows, the second group (n=15) cows in the early lactation, and the third group (n=15) cow in mid lactation. The significant higher activity (P

Routine analysis of blood parameters requires high precision. Therefore a significant number of methods and recommendations has been developed to ensure the obtaining of precise results. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the type of anticoagulant affects the values of biochemical parameters in the blood of dairy cows in relation to the values obtained from the serum. The study was carried out on 20 healthy cows of Holstein- Friesian breed in the second month of lactation. The blood was taken by venipuncture from v.coccigea. There were used five types of vacutainers as follows: for the serum separation, with heparin, EDTA, citrate, and fluoride. Samples from each cow were taken in all five types of vacutainers respectively. There was determined the concentration of: albumin, total protein, glucose, Ca, P, BHB, NEFA, urea, cholesterol, triglycerides, ALT, AST, AP, GGT and bilirubin. The results of the analysis of samples that contained anticoagulants were compared statistically with analysis in serum that was considered to be the control one. It was also calculated the percentage of deviation in average values of concentration of metabolites obtained from samples with different anticoagulants in regard to the serum value. The results of the investigation show that anticoagulants influence the values of biochemical parameters in the blood of cows. In the samples where heparin was used as anticoagulant there was found higher albumin level (deviation 4.1%) as well as total protein (1.4%), but lower value of alkaline phosphatase activity relative to the serum (-33%). In the samples in which EDTA was used there were significantly lower levels of total protein (-5.8%), Ca (-49.6%), P (-17.7%), AP (-32%) and higher value AST (10.6%) compared to serum. In the samples where citrate or fluoride were used as anticoagulants there were found lower values of total protein, albumin, glucose (only citrate), Ca, P, BHB, NEFA, urea (only citrate), cholesterol, AP and GGT (only fluoride) and lower bilirubin when using citrate or higher when using fluoride, in comparison to the serum. Deviations of biochemical parameters measured from blood samples that were in citrate or fluoride were as follows: total protein (-5.3%, -5.2%), albumin (-7%, -5.7%), glucose (only citrate -6.2%), Ca (-55%, -82%), P (-29%, -24%), BHB (-53%, -80%), NEFA (-62.1%, -79 , 4%), urea (only citrate, -25.5%), cholesterol (-28.6%, -28.4%), AP (-38%, -32%), and GGT (only -17 fluoride, 8%) and higher bilirubin (-22.8%, 64.4%). For routine clinical biochemical analysis of blood of cows it is the most reliable to use the samples with heparin as an anticoagulant, because the use of other anticoagulants gives large variations in the values of biochemical parameters in relation to serum.

With mastitis and reproductive disorders, musculoskeletal diseases represent one of the most important problems in modern cattle production. In this paper we described the diagnostic procedure and the possibility of treatment of septic arthritis in cattle. After a successful general clinical examination, ultrasound diagnostics and arthrocenthesis of affected joint are done. After ultrasound examination and trail puncture of the joint are done, we conducted therapy which was consisting of local and systemic treatments. By conducted therapy there was a significant improvement in the health of the animal. The swelling is completely evaporated and lameness was less pronounced, and it is progressively reduced in the future. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 31062]

Lactation is physiological state of the organism and the final process of the female reproductive cycle. Milk in the first days after birth (colostrum), in addition to the necessary nutrients contains antibodies, with whose ingesting only a newborn individual receives passive immunity that protects it from various infections over time. Mammary gland dysfunction and a lack of breast milking is called agalactia. Due to the occurrence of agalactia in mother, newborn animal is denied of intake of colostrum in its body. Thus prevents ingestion of nutrients and passive immunity, which results in the occurrence of various diseases especially infectious etiology. This paper describes the treatment of agammaglobulinemia in foal after ascertaining the occurrence of primary agalactia in mare. There is described the possibility of substitution, ie. benefits of breast milk substitutes, and the procedure of diagnosis and treatment of carpal arthritis in foal.

The experiment included 30 cows of Holstein-Friesian breed, out of which 15 were receiving selenium and zinc in optimal doses before calving, while the others had never been supplemented with these micronutrients. There was analysed the concentration of selenium and zinc in blood and milk serum as well as the average number of somatic cells in corresponding lactation. After the cows exclusion from production, histological characteristics of cows udders were examined. The results of the investigation have shown that addition of selenium and zinc before calving has a positive effect on the values of these microelements in the blood and milk during the period of early lactation, that is, the concentration of these elements was significantly higher in the blood and milk of the cows that obtained selenium and zinc supplements. Also, in these cows there was significantly lower number of somatic cells during the following lacation period. In the parenchyma of the udder there was found less pronounced infiltration of leukocytes, notably thicker keratin layer of ductus papillaris and less expressed repairing processes that indicate a chronic inflammation of the udder in the samples after exclusion of the cows from production. There was a significant positive correlation between selenium in blood and milk, while there was not observed such a correlation for zinc. On the other hand, there was a significant negative correlation between the concentration of selenium in the blood and milk with the average number of somatic cells and the degree of infiltration of leukocytes, while its influence on the keratin layer of ductus papillarus was not shown. Zinc from blood and udder had a negative correlation with the number of somatic cells, had a positive correlation with the thickness of ductus papillaris keratin layer and had no influence on the level of leukocyte infiltration of udder parenchyma. Zinc demonstrates a positive influence on the formation of ductus papillaris keratin layer and protects the udder from pathogens penetration, while selenium stimulates the immunological response of the udder. Their positive impact can be defined as additive, because athough they have effect on two morphologically separate udder parts, adding both of them significantly decreases the number of somatic cells in milk. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR31062]