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The study aimed to determine the concentration of energy-related hormones in cow’s milk and to consider them from a public health perspective. Fourteen Holstein cows were subjected to milk and blood sampling on the following days in lactation (DIL): 10, 30, 60, 90, 150, 180, 210, 250 and 280 to determine milk hormones, fat and protein content and blood biochemical parameters. For the same purpose, bulk-tank milk was sampled and samples of retail m ilk with 1.5% (CM1.5) and 3.2% (CM3.2) fat was purchased. Milk insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) values were significantly lower at 90, 150, 180, 210 and 250 and significantly higher at 10, 30 and 60 DIL than lactation average (LA). Milk insulin concentrations were significantly lower at 30, 60 and 90 and higher at 210, 250 and 280 DIL than LA. Free thyroxine (fT4) level in the milk was higher at 250 DIL, while milk free triiodothyronine (fT3) concentrations were lower at 30, 60, 90 and 280 DIL, and significantly higher at 10 and 180 DIL than respective LA. Milk cortisol levels were lower at 60 and 280 DIL than LA. All measured milk hormones were significantly lower in CM1.5 compared to CM3.2, bulk-tank milk and LA. An exception was the LA of IGF-1, which was significantly lower than the IGF-1 content in CM1.5. Blood biochemical parameters fluctuated evenly during lactation and were within the reference range. Hormone concentrations in cow’s milk fluctuate during lactation, giving milk an important role in the context of public health.

In recent years, there have been numerous research activities related to the use of different herbal agents, especially those originating from chestnuts and garlic, as alternatives to synthetic growth promoters like antibiotics. Garlic and its active ingredients have been studied for their potential benefits, such as improving feed intake, production performance, rumen fermentation, and udder health. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of garlic polysulfides, including diallyl polysulfide and dipropyl polysulfide, on hematological and biochemical parameters in dairy cows, as well as their possible effect on subclinical mastitis therapy. Eighteen late lactation Holstein cows were divided into three numerically equal groups (n=6): CON (non-supplemented cows), ALL (supplemented with 1000 mg/day of diallyl polysulfide), and PRP (supplemented with 1000 mg/day of dipropyl polysulfide). Blood sampling for hematological and biochemical analyses as well as the California mastitis test (CMT) test were performed before and after the 15-day study. The results showed that garlic supplementation significantly increased blood leukocyte count and blood glucose concentration (p

Ruminant husbandry contributes to global methane (CH4) emissions and beside its negative impact on the environment, enteric CH4 emissions cause a loss of gross energy intake in cows. The study is aimed to estimate CH4 emission and metabolic status in dairy cows via the methane concentration profile as a tool for analyzing the CH4 production pattern. The study included eighteen cows whose enteric CH4 emission was measured during three consecutive days in three periods: 2 hours before (P1), 2–4 hours (P2) and 6–8 hours (P3) after the morning feeding. Based on CH4 enteric emissions, cows were divided into two groups (n=6, respectively): HM (average CH4 concentration: 5430.08 ± 365.92 ppm) and LM (average CH4 concentration: 1351.85 ± 205.20 ppm). Following CH4 measurement, on day 3, venous blood was sampled to determine the indicators of the metabolic status. HM cows had significantly higher average CH4 concentrations, maximum and average CH4 peak amplitude than LM cows in all measuring periods (P1-P3), while the number of CH4 peaks tended to be higher in HM than in LM cows in P2. There were no differences in the maximum and average CH4 peak width and average distance among two CH4 peaks between examined groups of cows. HM cows had significantly higher total protein concentrations and significantly lower total bilirubin and NEFA concentrations than LM cows. In conclusion, HM cows have a greater number of eructations and release more CH4 per eructation than LM cows, hence the differences in metabolic status are most likely related to the differences in their liver function.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two different treatment options for the correction of left displaced abomasum (LDA) on milk yield, hematological, electrolyte parameters, lactate and cortisol concentrations in primiparous cows. Twenty four Holstein cows were randomly assigned into three groups: cows treated with one-step laparoscopic abomasopexy (LPS, n=8), cows treated by left paralumbar omentopexy (LPT, n=8) and healthy cows (CON, n=8), matched by parity and days in milk. Blood samples were collected before (D0) and after (D0’) surgery, and 1 (D1), 3 (D3), 10 (D3) and 30 (D30) days following surgery. LPS and LPT cows at D0 as well as LPT cows at 30 d following surgery had lower milk yield than CON cows (P

Previous studies in the field of acid-base and oxidative status in cows have mainly focused on the transition period (three weeks before and three weeks after calving). The aim of this study was to determine the differences in the parameters of acid-base and oxidative status and electrolyte balance in cows not only during the transition period, but also at other stages of the production cycle. Holstein-Friesian cows were divided into four numerically equal groups (n = 6): early lactating cows (9±2 days in milk - DIM), peak lactating cows (50±5 DIM), late lactating cows (170±10 DIM) and dry cows (10±1 days before calving). Venous blood samples were taken from the cows to analyze acid-base status, electrolyte concentrations and oxidative stress parameters, and to compare group means. Significantly higher pH was observed in early lactating cows than in late lactating cows. Sodium (Na+) concentration was significantly lower in early lactating and peak lactating cows compared to dry cows, while chloride (Cl-) concentration was also lower in late lactating cows compared to dry cows. Plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was higher in early lactating cows compared to peak lactating cows. Thus, the highest blood pH, lowest Na+ and Cl- concentrations and highest serum GSH-Px activity were observed in early lactating cows compared to other groups, indicating the highest metabolic and oxidative stress during this period. In conclusion, it would be useful to consider the inclusion of these parameters in standard health assessment procedures in intensive dairy production.

Introduction. Neonatal calves are often deficient in iron. Accumulating evidence indicates that iron status is associated with disease pathologies including diarrhea. Our objective was to examine the association between iron status and gut function in neonatal calves with and without a history of calf diarrhea. Materials and Methods. Calves were divided into two groups based on their history of diarrhea; the first group were diarrheic calves (n=6) and the second group were non-diarrheic healthy calves (n=6). Blood samples (n=12) were collected at day 12 of age and erythrogram determination and measurements of serum iron and total iron binding capacity were performed. Hematological values were measured using an automatic analyzer, and biochemical properties were determined spectrophotometrically. Fecal samples were obtained from all calves and pH measured using semi quantitative test strips as well as being examined by bacterial cultivation for enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Clostridium perfringens, by RT-PCR for the presence of bovine rotavirus, bovine coronavirus and bovine viral diarrhea virus, and by microscopy for the presence of Cryptosporidium parvum. Results and Conclusions. There were significant iron-related changes for most hematological indices in diarrheic calves; and iron (Fe) deficiency and microcytic, hypochromic anemia were diagnosed. The pH of the feces was significantly higher in diarrheic calves than in the non-diarrheic healthy group (P

This study aimed to evaluate glucose-induced insulin response in cows exposed to different temperature-humidity index. Twenty early lactating Holstein-Friesian cows were divided into 2 equal groups based on season, as summer (SU) and spring (SP). SP cows were not exposed to heat stress, while SU cows were exposed to moderate or severe heat stress. Milk production was recorded daily. Starting from day 30 of lactation, intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) was carried out three times at 30-day intervals. Blood samples were taken before (basal) and after glucose infusion, and glucose and insulin were measured at each sample point. The homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index was calculated. Milk yield from days 30 to 40 and 64 to 90 of lactation were higher in SP cows than in SU cows. Basal glucose did not differ on days 30 and 60 of lactation, while basal insulin and HOMA were lower in SU compared to SP cows. On day 90 of lactation, SU cows had higher basal glucose, whereas basal insulin and HOMA did not differ. IVGTT results revealed that glucose tolerance was affected by heat stress such that SU cows had higher glucose clearance. Insulin responses to IVGTT did not differ on days 30 and 60 of lactation. Heat stress had a marked effect on insulin secretion on day 90 of lactation, illustrated by higher increments, peak concentrations and area under the curve for insulin in SU cows. Overall, season differences in glucose tolerance depend not only on heat stress and milk production but also on the stage of lactation.

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

The aim of our study was to investigate if the thyroid axis of newborn calves is affected by prenatal application of propylthyouracil (PTU). The study included 20 late pregnant Holstein cows. One group (n=10) was treated with PTU (4 mg/kg of BW daily) from day 20 before expected calving until the day of calving. The other group (n=10) was non-treated. Placental samples of dams were obtained for measuring mRNA expression of iodothyronine deiodinases type I (D1), type II (D2) and type III (D3). After parturition calves were separated from the dams and included in the study. Blood samples were taken daily from each calf starting on the day of birth until day 7 of age. Blood T3, T4 and TSH concentrations were measured. PCR analysis of the placental tissue revealed an abundance of all three types of placental deiodinases in non-treated cows, and a significant elevation of mRNA levels for all three types of deiodinases after PTU treatment. Calves that originated from dams treated with PTU had significantly lower T3 and T4 and significantly higher TSH concentrations compared to non-treated calves during the first 2 days of life. Starting from day 4 until day 6 of life the opposite effect was observed meaning that calves prenatally exposed to PTU had significantly higher T3 and T4 and slightly lower TSH. Our study, for the first time, provides information related to iodothyronine deiodinases mRNA expression in bovine placenta, and confirm that PTU treatment of pregnant dams provokes depression of thyroid function in newborns during the first days of life.

The objective of this work was to compare the composition of colostrum and milk of cows and sows (content of dry matter, protein, milk fat and lactose, concentration of IGF-I and insulin) in samples taken on the first, second, third and seventh day after parturition, and then based on the differences in composition to determine a biological significance of nutrition of newborn during the earliest stages of their life. The investigation inluded 14 cows of Holstein breed and 14 sows of Landrace breed. The content of dry matter and the concentration of proteins in both colostrum and milk samples were statistically significantly higher in regard to sows mammary glands secretion, taken on the first day after the parturition (p

The objective of the work was to investigate the influence of partial substitution of magnesium oxide with natural bentonite in feed mixtures used in feeding of cows during their exposure to heat stress. The investigation lasted 30 days and was carried out during last ten days of may and first twenty days of June when average air temperature in stables was 36.6±2.5oC. In the experiment there were included 30 cows of Holstein breed in first phase of lactation, which were divided into two groups of 15 cows: control (C) and experimental (E). Group C was fed with experimental mineral mixture that contained 60% of magnesium oxide during the whole investigation period. Group E was fed with experimental mineral mixture that contained 40% of magnesium oxide as well as 20% of natural bentonite. Remaining ingredients in both control and experimental mineral mixtures were the same and also contained 20% of sodium bicarbonate and 20% of zeolite in the same quantities. The control and experimental mineral mixtures were mixed into complete feed mixture (18% UP) in the amount of 1%. At tne end of the investigation period, on the 30th day, there were taken samples of rumens contents for determining pH, and after that blood samples, in which, after the separation of blood serum, were determined glucose concentration, total proteins, albumin, globulin, urea, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, total bilirubin, calcium and phosphorus, as well as the activity of ALT and AST. By computation there was calculated the ratio between albumin and globulin, ALT and AST, and the ratio between calcium and phosphorus. Daily allowance and milk chemical composition ( percentage of fat, proteins and dry substance) were determined at the end of the investigation period, that is on the 30th day of lactation, for each cow individually. Partial substitution of magnesium oxide with bentonite influenced milk production increase, but it was statistically insignificant. Besides that, in E group of cows, percentage of fat and dry substance in milk was significantly increased (p

It is considered that high air temperature and humidity during the summer are the main factors which adversely affect both the health and production-reproductive performance of high yielding dairy cows. The resulting heath stress leads to a series of changes in endocrine regulation of homeostasis. The changes in hormonal status reflect in some way to the indicators of metabolic status of the cows. The objective of this work was to investigate the influence of heat stress on metabolic status of cows. The experiment was carried out on 20 cows of Holstein-Friesian breed during the summer, in the period from 18th to 45th day of lactation. During the performance of the experiment, the value of heat index (THI) was determined hourly and then the value of average morning (from 10 pm the previous day to 9 am the current day), afternoon (from 10 am to 9 pm the current day) and all-day THI was calculated. Blood sampling was carried out on the 1st, 2nd, 8th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 25th, 29th and 37th day of the experiment, in the morning and the afternoon. On the basis of hourly THI values, whole experimental period was divided into three periods: period A during which the cows were exposed to a extreme high heat stress (THI≥78) at least 7 hours in 24 hours; period B during which the cows were exposed to a moderate heat stress (72≥THI≤78) at least 7 hours in 24 hours; period C during which the cows were not exposed to a heat stress (THI≤72) in 24 hours. The average daily THI in period A (73,25±0,89) was significantly higher (p

The aim of this work was to investigate the change of metabolic profile of sows during the lactation period, taking into consideration both parity and number of piglets in a litter (litter size). In order to do this, 30 sows immediately after farrowing were taken and divided into three groups: sows with two farrowing (first group; n=10), ones with four farrowing (second group; n=10), and ones with five and more farrowing (third group; n=10). In regard to a litter size, 20 sows were divided into two groups: sows with eight piglets (first group; n=10), and sows with 10 and more piglets (second group; n=10). All the sows included in the experiment were mestizos of large Yorkshire and Swedish Landrace. Blood samples were taken on the 2nd and 28th day of lactation. In the blood serum samples there were determined the concentration of total proteins, albumins, Total bilirubin, calcium and inorganic phosphorus. The results have shown that there was not a significant difference in proteinemia between the groups on the 2nd day after farrowing, while on the 28th day of lactation, proteinemia was significantly lower only in the group with ten or more piglets in a litter. In all the groups, except for the group with ten or more piglets in the litter, proteinemia was significantly higher on the 28th compared to the 2nd day of lactation. Albumin concentration in blood serum of different groups of sows followed the same trend as protein concentration, with the only difference that albuminemia in sows with ten or more piglets in a litter was approximately the same on the 2nd and 28th day of lactation. Total bilirubin concentration in blood serum on the 2nd day after farrowing was equal in different groups of sows, provided that in sows with five or more farrowings it was significantly higher in regard to other groups. Similar divergence was also determined on the 28th day after farrowing. The sows of 4th parity had significantly lower and the ones with 10 or more farrowings higher bilirubinemia on the 28th compared to the 2nd day of lactation. Glycaemia was significantly lower in the sows with ten or more piglets in a litter in regard to other groups both on the 2nd and 28th day of lactation. Calcaemia was significantly lower on the 2nd in regard to the 28th day of lactation in all the groups, except for the group of sows with ten or more piglets in a litter. In the group with 10 or more piglets in a litter, calcaemia was significantly lower compared to other groups both on the 2nd and 28th day. The sows of 4. Parity had significantly lower phosphataemia in regard to other groups both on the 2nd and 28th day of lactation. Moreover, on the 28th day of lactation, the sows with 10 or more piglets in a litter had significantly lower phosphataemia in regard to all the other groups, except for the group of sows of 4th parity. Phosphataemia varied between the 2nd and 28th day of lactation in neither group except for the group of sows with 10 or more piglets in a litter. On the basis of the obtained results it can be concluded that between the 2nd and 28th day of lactation significant changes in concentrations of some parameters of metabolic profile in sows in lactation occur. The determined changes are most pronounced in elderly sows as well as in the ones with ten or more piglets in a litter, being a result of impeded bile flow or metabolic load due to the increased activity of mammary glands.

The objective of this work was to determine if there was a connection between stereotypical behaviour of high yielding dairy cows breeds and values of biochemical blood parameters. The investigation was carried out in august at loose-housing type of farms, in 30 heads of cattle from four groups: drying (15 to 7 days before calving), puerperium (up to 40 days after calving, early lactation (up to 120 days after calving) and late lactation (200 to 300 days after calving). Assessment of stereotypical behaviour (tongue rolling) was carried out by the method of careful observation of all the tested animals 2 to 4 hours after morning feeding. Blood samples were taken by puncture of jugular vein from 8 cows out of each animal group. In these blood samples there was determined the concentration of glucose, beta hydroxy-butyric acid (BHBA), total protein (TP), albumin, urea, total bilirubin (TBI), Ca, P, and Mg as well as AST and ALT activities. During the period up to 40 days after calving (puerperium), behavioral disorder in the form of „tongue rolling“ was found out in 4 out of 30 observed animals (13.33%). Average concentrations of all the tested blood parameters during the drying period as well as in early and late lactation were within physiological values for cattle. During puerperium there were found significantly lower values of glycaemia, proteinemia, albuminemia, uremia and magnesiemia in regard to antepartal values (p

In this paper there is presented right heart failure in 10 years' old cow. During last year it had changeable apetite, profuse diarrhea as well as fluctuations in milk production. In the mentoned period it did not conceive. By examination of peripheral blood vessels, there were determined some changes in pulse quality (p.rarus et parvus) and charge of neck veins (venous stasis). Under the skin in sternum region there was noticeable swelling of pastose condensation. Visible mucosas were pail. Heart sounds were barely audible, and at puncta optima aorte and a.pulmonalis could not be heard at all. On the right side of the chest, first and second heart tones audability was better, compared to those of the opposite side. By examining of the reticulum by testing on foreign body presence, the animal did not react painfully. On the basis of these data, there was diagnosed: Insufficientio cordis et pericarditis traumatica in obs. By laboratory analysis of blood samples, trere was determined hypochromic and microcytic anemia, mild leukocytosis with neutrophilia, as well as hyperproteinemia characterized by hypoalbuminemia and hyperglobulinemia. These findings pointed out to iron deficiency, inflammatory process and reduced syntetic ability of liver. For economic reasons, the animal was sent to the slaughter. By pathomorphological examination there were determined connective tissue adhesions among reticulum, diaphragm, pericardium and the base of the heart. The foreign body was located in the base of the heart where a large abscess was formed. Pericardium was thickened, and on its inner side there were grained sediments of fibrin and purulent content. Right ventricle of the heart was expanded and the wall was thinned. By histopathological examination of the heart, there was found out thickened pericardium with fibrin sediments, and the wall of the abscess located on the base of the heart was formed of connective tissue largely infiltrated by neutrophyl granulocytes. On the basis of the findings, there was diagnosed Pericarditis purulenta chronica. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 46002: Molekularno-genetička i ekofiziološka istraživanja u zaštiti autohtonih animalnih genetičkih resursa, očuvanju dobrobiti, zdravlja i reprodukcije gajenih životinja i proizvodnji bezbedne hrane]

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an energy supplement on the basis of propylene glycol on the values of metabolic profile parameters in periparturient cows. Fifteen days before calving, 40 cows were selected and divided into two groups: control (n=20) and experimental (n=20). From day 15 before to day 30 after calving, the experimental group of cows received an energy supplement based on propyleneglycol added in food ("OSIMOL“, Veyx-Pharma GmbH, Germany). Blood samples were taken 15 days before and 10 days after calving. Concentrations of glucose and betahydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) were determined immediately after blood was taken. Concentrations of total protein, albumin, urea and total bilirubin were determined in the blood serum. There was no significant difference in the average values of the measured parameters between the control and the experimental group of cows. After parturition glycemia in cows of the control group was lower than physiologically acceptable (x=1.93±0.43 mmol/L), and glucose in cows of the experimental group was at the upper physiological limit (x=3.13±0.33 mmol/L) and signicantly higher (p

This paper describes paratuberculosis in an isolated breeding herd of 25 high-yield dairy cows of the Red Holstein breed. The animals were examined clinically and then given the test for ldelayed type hypersensitivity and their blood serum was examined for the presence of specific antibodies against Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map). The clinical examination revealed that two cows exhibited symptoms of the disease that indicated an advanced stage of paratuberculosis. The following parameters were examined in the blood of the cows that showed clinical signs of the disease: leukocytes and erythrocytes count, concentrations of total proteins, albumin, iron, sodium, potassium, and activity of creatine kinase. The analysis of the red blood cell count revealed certain digressions that indicated the existence of hypochromic microcytic anaemia. The number of leukocytes was within the physiological values, but the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio was disrupted and stood at almost 1:1. The results of the biochemical analyses of the blood serum of diseased cows indicated hypoproteinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, hypoferremia, hyposodiumaemia, hypokalemia, and increased activities of creatine kinase enzymes. A suspect reaction on the site of application of avian tuberculin was determined in two animals. Animals with clinical signs of the disease reacted negative to the test of delayed type hypersensitivity. The presence of specific antibodies against the cause of paratuberculosis was proven in four animals (16%), including two animals with clinical signs of the disease and one that had a suspect reaction on the site of application of avian tuberculin. Furthermore, one animal that died exhibited macroscopic and microscopic changes regarding the intensity and distribution of lesions, the type of cellular infiltrate, and the number of present acidresistent bacteria, and the changes were characterized as diffuse changes of multibacillary type. The cause of bovine paratuberculosis was isolated from the altered organs.

The objective of this work was to examine the effect of heat stress on glucose and pH values in blood of high-yielding dairy cows in the early stage of lactation, as well as to determine whether the changes in these parameters are interdependent under such conditions. An experiment was performed on high-yielding dairy cows during the summer and the spring periods. Forty cows were selected, twenty each for the two periods under investigation. In the course of the experiment, the temperature humidity index (THI) was determined for the entire period of investigations, and then also the average daily THI, nightmorning THI (average value of hourly THI measured from 22h on the previous day until 10h of the current day), as well as the day-night THI (average value of hourly THI measured during the period from 10h to 22h of the current day). The pH and glucose concentration were determined in blood samples taken in the morning and afternoon of days 30, 60, and 90 of lactation during the spring and summer periods of the investigations. Based on the results for the THI, it was established that the animals were not exposed to the effect of extreme heat stress during the spring period of investigations, while they were periodically exposed to moderate but also extreme heat stress during the summer, in particular in the afternoon hours. It can be concluded from the results obtained for the blood pH that the cows were in respiratory alkalosis during the summer in the morning and afternoon hours on day 30, in the afternoon hours of days 60 and 90 of lactation, as well as in the afternoon on day 90 of lactation during the spring period of investigations. During the summer period, there were no statistically significant differences between the pH value determined in the morning and afternoon hours on day 30 of lactation, while the pH value was significantly higher in the afternoon hours than in the morning hours on days 60 and 90 of lactation. There were no significant differences between the average values for glucose during the spring period of investigations. During the summer, the average afternoon values for glucose on days 60 and 90 of lactation were significantly lower against the morning values. Glucose concentration measured on day 90 was statistically significantly lower than those for days 30 and 60 of lactation, both in the morning and in the afternoon. Glucose concentration on day 90 of lactation during the summer period was significantly lower against glucose concentration during the spring, both in the morning and in the afternoon hours. During the spring period, there was no significant correlation between blood glucemia and pH, while there was a negative correlation between the electrochemical reaction of blood and glucemia during the summer, but which was significant only in the afternoon hours. The decrease in glucemia in the afternoon hours of days 60 and 90 of lactation during the summer period can be explained by the strong influence of alkalosis on insulin secretion that leads to the increased utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues, which is why its concentration in blood is significantly decreased at that time. This is a form of the metabolism shifting under conditions of heat stress, when it uses glucose predominantly as a source of energy in the cells, as its oxidation releases significantly less heat energy in comparison with the combustion of other metabolites.

The objective of the investigations was to establish the validity of certain metabolic and endocrine indicators of energy metabolism in comparison with the body condition of cows during the final stage of pregnancy and the early stage of lactation. For the investigations, three groups of eight cows each were chosen during the dry period (15 days before the expected date of calving), in early puerperium (15 days after calving) and on the 100th day of lactation. All the animals included in the experiment were primipara or at their second delivery. The body condition of the cows in advanced pregnancy and lactation was evaluated according to the Elanco Animal Health Bulletin AI 8478 system. Concentrations of glucose and beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB) were determined in samples of fresh blood, and concentrations of total bilirubin, urea, triiodothyronine and thyroxine in samples of blood serum. The blood samples were taken during the dry period, in early puerperium, and on the 100th day of lactation. On the grounds of the obtained results, a high degree of correlation was determined between the body condition of cows in early puerperium and BHB concentrations in blood established 15 days prior to calving (r = 0.898; p < 0.01). Contrary to this, a significant correlation was established between the body condition of cows in the dry period and the concentration of total bilirubin in cow blood 15 days after calving (r = 0.603; p < 0.05). Furthermore, a high degree of correlation was established between the difference in the body condition of cows in the dry period and in early puerperium (X = 0.49 ± 0.21 pints) and BHB concentration in the blood of cows prior to calving (r = 0.800; p < 0.02). It can be concluded on the grounds of the obtained results that changes in the body condition of cows that occur in the peripartal period are in significant correlation with BHB concentration in the blood of cows in the dry period and the concentration of total bilirubin in early puerperium. .

The objective of this work was to examine the influence of outer temperature on values of the vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration) in high-yield dairy cows in early stages of lactation, as well as to establish, on the grounds of the degree of correlation between the values for the vital signs and the temperature humidity index (THI), possibilities for using the examined physiological parameters of the organism as an indicator of heat stress. The experiment covered 10 high-yield dairy cows in the first phase of lactation. The investigations were carried out in the course of July and the first half of August. During the course of the experiment, the average THI was determined daily. An average daily THI higher than 70 indicated that the animal had been exposed to heat stress on that day. Vital signs were measured on twelve occasions during the period of investigation (June 30, July 4, July 7, July 10, July 14, July 17, July 21, July 24, July 29, August 5, August 11, and August 14). It was established on the grounds of the THI values that the examined animals were exposed to heat stress on June 30, July 4, July 7, July 14, July 17, July 21, July 29, August 5, and August 14, while there was no heat stress on July 10, July 24, and August 11. The average body temperature during all the periods of examination, with the exception of July 24, was above the upper physiological limit. A high degree of correlation was established between body temperature and the heat index (r = +0. 509; p = 0.05). The number of respiratory movements per minute was above the physiological values during the entire period of investigation. There was a high degree of correlation between the number of respiratory movements and THI (r = + 0.625; p

The objective of the investigations presented in this work was to establish the effects of a glycerol-based energy supplement in the diet of high-yield dairy cows on their body condition and production results during the early stage of lactation. Forty-seven cows were selected before calving, and they were divided into two groups: controls (n=26) and experimental (n=21). Cows of the experimental group were administered the preparation 'Energy Top' (Biochem GMBH, Germany), in a quantity of 250 ml daily during the final two weeks of the dry period and until the 60th day of lactation. The body condition score (BCS) of all cows was determined 10 days before calving, and on days 15 and 60 after calving. Blood samples were taken 10 days before and 15 days after calving, and concentrations of glucose and beta hydroxi-butyric acid (BHBA) were determined in all samples. Average daily milk production of all cows was measured on days 30 and 60 of lactation. The results showed that the differences in BCS between the dry period and puerperium, or the dry period and the 60th day of lactation, were within physiological values in the experimental group of cows, and higher than physiological values in the control group. Glucose concentration was statistically significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group of cows 10 days before calving (p

The work presents the results of investigations of the effect of moderate heat stress on the acidobasal status in high-yield dairy cows in early lactation. Improving performance in high-yield dairy cows increases their inclination toward metabolic disorders. The most likely to be affected is the acid-base balance, in particular when cows are exposed to heat stress. Investigations so far have shown that the taking of urine samples and their analysis is the best and fastest way to diagnose disorders in the acid-base balance. Investigations were carried out on 7 clinically healthy cows of the Holstein- Friesian breed in the phase of early lactation, 30 to 40 days (on days 30, 33 and 40 ) following calving during the summer period, during the month of July, when there were significant variations in daily and nightly temperatures. The cows were in the second and fourth lactation, the annual milk yield was 8000 L milk per cow. The average daily milk production in the early phase of lactation ranged from 35 to 40 L. The cows were fed mixed rations (TMR) twice daily. Lucerne hay in limited quantities was given to the cows prior to the mixed feed ration. The ration for this animal category was optimized on the grounds of the daily milk production. The balance of cations and anions in the feed ration stood at 95 mEq/kg DM. The results clearly demonstrate the cows' response to moderate heat stress through the defense parameters in urine (urine pH, NABE (net-acid-base-excretion), acids, bases, ammonium ion (NH4). The determination of the kidney NABE yields more correct data than the urine pH on acidotic conditions. The results of examinations of the urine pH do not show any digressions from physiological values and are approximately the same in all cows during the investigated periods. Normal NABE values are from 100-200 mmol/L. Burdening with acid products results in a NABE range from 0-100mmol/L, and metabolic acidosis results in NAB

Puerperal haemoglobinuria is a sporadic disease that appears in cows before the fourth week after calving and is manifested as haemoglobinuria and haemolytic anaemia. Haemoglobinuria puerperalis was diagnozed at a private mini cattle farm on the grounds of anamnestic data and the results of clinical examinations, and it was confirmed with the results of laboratory examinations of blood samples. In the course of the disease, characteristic symptoms developed, there was clearly visible paleness of the mucosa, slightly expressed ichtherus of the eyelid ridge skin, and haemoglobinuria. Having in mind the very expressed oligocytemic hypochromic anaemia, therapy was directed at the primary disease and a blood transfusion was administered.

A total of 92 samples of bovine blood serum were examined for the presence of antibodies against the bovine respiratory syncytial virus using indirect immunoenzyme probe - iELISA. Specific antibodies against the bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) were established in 46, or 50% blood serum samples. Investigations of the 92 blood serum samples of cattle for the presence of antibodies against the parainfluenza virus 3 (PI 3), revealed their presence in 77, or 83.69% of the samples, and the presence of antibodies against the bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV 1) was established in 19, or 20.65% of the samples.

The concentration of total proteins, albumin, total bilirubin, and glucose were examined in the blood of healthy cows and those with left displaced abomasum. Significant digressions from physiological values in cows with left displaced abomasum were established in proteinemia (x = 87.92 g/l) and in bilirubinemia (x = 10.29 μmol/l). Hyperproteinemia indicates chemoconcentration in the diseased animals, which is also indicated in significantly higher concentrations of albumin in the diseased in comparison with the healthy animals (x = 41.94 - 3.5 : 36.89 - 3.95 g/l). The higher values for glucemia in the diseased against the healthy animals (x = 2.628 : 2.203 mmol/l) could indicate disrupted function of B-cells of the endocrine pancreas. This data can come in useful in setting the diagnosis, but it also has no less importance in the determination of the prognosis for the disease. Determining the liver function during the disease should contribute to the better knowledge of its role in the degree of the occurrence of this health disorder, as well as the outcome of the disease itself. This is of particular importance having in mind that displaced abomasum most frequently occurs in the early stage of lactation, when a negative energy balance is already present. This state is conducive to the occurrence of fatty liver, and that is why displaced abomasum can contribute even further to the process of fat accumulation, having in mind that diseased animals consume significantly smaller quantities of feed.

Abomasal displacement is one of the most important disorders of the digestive tract in high-yield dairy cows. The etiology and pathogenesis of its occurrence has not been fully clarified to this day. The work examines calcaemia and phosphataemia in cows during the antepartal and postpartal periods and their connection with the incidence of abomasal displacement. The experiment covered 30 cows in advanced stages of gravidity. Blood samples were taken two weeks before expected parturition and two weeks after calving. In all blood samples (taken antepartal and postpartal), concentrations of calcium and an organic phosphorus were determined using a commercial test package (Bio-Merieux). Following parturition, left displacement of the abomasums was established in seven (23.33 %) of the 30 cows covered by the experiment (experimental group). The remaining 23 cows in the experiment were clinically healthy, they were placed in a group and represented control animals. The average value of calcaemia for the control group of cows during the antepartal period was 2.72±0.25 mmol/l, and of phosphataemia 2.04±0.25 mmol/l. In the same cows postpartum, average calcaemia values were 2.46±0.22 mmol/l and phosphataemia 1.85±0.29 mmol/l. The average antepartal value for calcaemia in the experimental group of cows was 2.51±0.25 mmol/l, and for phosphataemia 1.73± 0.22 mmol/l. The average values for this group of cows postpartally was 2.13±0.31 mmol/l for calcaemia and 1.43±0.24 mmol/l for phosphataemia. The differences between the concentration values for calcium and phosphorus obtained postpartally between the experimental and control groups were statistically significant. .

The work presents the results of investigations of the effect of natural zeolite (clinoptilolite type) on the degree of resumption of cloistral immunoglobulin, the value of hematological parameters and enzyme activity in blood serum (AST, ALT, and LDH), body mass, and daily growth of calves in the first three months of life. Investigations were carried out on three groups of 10 male and female calves each, with a 1:1 ratio of sexes, (control, K, and two experimental groups, I and II), of the black-and-white breed, Holstein type. All three groups of calves were fed with the usual rations (colostrum, collective cows' milk, fodder mix with 18% total proteins, and Lucerne hay).The experimental groups of calves, as opposed to the controls, received colostrums and collective cows' milk with the addition of a preparation based on natural zeolite in quantities of 5 and 10 g/l milk. The concentration of immunoglobulin G in blood serum of experimental groups of calves was significantly higher than the values of the control group (35.9±6.43 g/l in Group I; 32.5±7.39 g/l in Group II; 20.8±6.88 g/l in control group K). The results of the investigations of the values of hematological parameters (number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit value) do not show any digressions from the physiological values and are approximately the same in the experimental and the control groups of calves, which indicates that the examined quality of the zeolite-based preparation did not affect the degree of the resumption of iron and other oligoelements significant for erythropoietin. The data on the enzyme activity in blood serum indicate that the examined preparation does not cause any significant functional or morphological changes in the tissue of parenchymatous organs or muscles. There were no significant disorders in the health of calves of the experimental groups, while 3 calves of the control group had gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea). Calves of experimental group I which received colostrum and collective cows' milk with an addition of 5g zeolite/l milk had a significantly greater average body mass and daily growth on the 90th day of life than calves of the control group (116.0-6.9: 105.3-6.4 kg, and 0.868:0.743 g). The addition of natural zeolite in quantities of 5 g/l colostrum or milk yields better results and has an advantage over the higher doze of zeolite of 10 g/l.

Malignant catarrhal fever is a disease of cattle and other ruminants, which most often has a lethal outcome. The disease occurs sporadically and is very difficult to control. At a private mini cattle farm, the occurrence of malignant catarrhal fever was suspected on the grounds of anaemnestic data and results of clinical examinations. The owner said that, in addition to cattle, he also breeds sheep in a separate facility, but said these animals had not been in contact with the diseased cow. In the course of the disease, the characteristic symptoms developed so that the clinical diagnosis set earlier was subsequently confirmed. In addition to constantly elevated body temperature, changes in the eyes were observed very soon (congested blood vessels and capillaries of the white sclera with keratitis on both sides). In addition to photofobia and a copious discharge from the nasal cavities, the discharge was at first seromucous and later became mucopurrulent. In the later course of the disease, there was progressive loss of weight and exhaustion of the animal. Since therapy included, in addition to other medicines, also a glucocorticosteroid preparation, the animal aborted its fetus on the fifth day. A pathological-anatomical examination did not reveal any changes on the fetus. In spite of the applied therapy, the medical condition deteriorated from day to day, and the animal expired on the eighth day of the disease.

The objective of these investigations was to examine possibilities for preventing fatty liver in cows during the peripartal period using the preparation HEPARENOL which includes methionine, lysine and choline in its composition. Investigations were performed on cattle of the Holstein breed whose average production during their last lactation was 8120 liters. The cows included in the experiment were divided into three groups of 10 cows each. Cows of the first group were administered the preparation HEPARENOL perorally 5-7 days before partus in daily doses of 50 ml per animal, and then daily during the first seven days after parturition in daily doses of 100 ml per animal. The second group of cows were administered the preparation in the same way as the first group, but they also received vitamin C injected deep i.m. in doses of 1000 mg per animal per day. The third group of cows were not exposed to any treatment and served as the control group. The body condition of the cows was marked according to the system Elanco Animal Health Bulletin Al 8478. Blood samples were taken by puncture of the jugular vein before the beginning of treatment, and on the third and 12th days after partus. The glucose concentration was determined in the blood samples. On the 12th day after partus, liver tissue samples were taken by biopsy for pathohistological examinations. Since the cows were fed in the same way and were in the same phase of the production-reproduction cycle, the average score of the body condition before treatment was approximately the same. However, on the 3rd day after partus, cows of the second experimental group showed average values that were significantly lower in comparison with the other two groups of cows. It is very interesting that a significantly lower value of glycemia (x=1.93±0.34 mmol/l) was established in the same group of cows at this time. In cows of the first experimental and the control group, glycemia was approximately the same during the examined period. In cows of the second experimental group on the 12th day after partus the glucose concentration significantly increased (x=2.42±0.58 mmol/l) against the values obtained for the 3rd day, but it was still significantly lower in comparison with the glycemia of cows of the first experimental (x=3.34±0.61 mmol/l) and the control group (x=3.48±0.49 mmol/l). Practically, throughout the entire period glycemia was statistically significantly lower in the second experimental group in comparison with the other two groups of cows. The degree of fatty liver on the 12th day postpartally, or five days after the end of treatment, was the lowest in cows of the second experimental group. In order to stress the differences, it is pointed out that there were two cows without fatty liver in the second group, while there were no such cows in the first experimental or in the control group. This group contained the smallest number of cows with a mean degree of fatty liver (n=2), while two cows had very strong fatty liver. There were no differences between the control and the first experimental group in the number of cows with a mean degree of fatty liver, with the exception that the control group had two and the first experimental group one cow with a mild degree of fatty liver. It seems that treatment using the preparation HEPARENOL, or methionine, lysine and choline, before and after parturition did not have a significant effect on the incidence and degree of fatty liver. Only cows with additional and simultaneous treatment with vitamin C had a lower incidence and degree of morphological changes in the liver, in addition to the sigfnificant changes in body condition and the blood glucose concentration.

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of energy status of cows, estimated by body condition score, on the incidence and the degree of hepatic lipidosis during the early stage of lactation. Cows were divided into four groups: dry, early puerperal, early lactation and late lactation period. Each group consisted of 60 cows. Body condition was scored by the method established in Elaco Animal Health Buletin Al 8478. According to this method, body condition score is represented numerically from 1 to 5 points. Liver samples for pathohistological analyses were taken by biopsy from early lactation cows (60. day of lactation). Fat content in hepatocytes was determined morphometrically and results were compared with criteria based on total lipid and triglyceride content in liver tissue. On farm A, average body condition scores were in a range from 3.31, at sixty days of lactation, to 3.86 points in the dry period. Nevertheless, the range was wider on farm B, and was from 2.18 points at sixty days of lactation to 4.15 points at the dry period. Besides, differences in average body condition scores were higher than 1 point, and in some cases (between late lactation or dry period to sixty days of lactation) were almost 2 points. The incidence and the degree of hepatic lipidosis strongly differ between the two examined farms. On farm A the incidence of hepatic lipidosis was 18.33 percent, while on farm B that percent was much higher (43.32). A significant difference was established in the degree of hepatic lipidosis between those two farms. On farm A diffuse hepatic lipidosis was determined in 5.0 percent of cows, while on farm B that percent was 18.33. According to these results, most of the cows on farm B had uncontrolled lipomobilisation and severe fatty liver during the early lactation period, probably due to the obesity of these cows in late lactation and the dry period.

The objective of the investigations presented in this paper was to establish the frequency of the incidence of subacute acidosis in the rumen of cows (SARA) in the first three months of lactation and the possibilities for its prevention using a mineral mix based on bentonite, zeolite, magnesium oxide, and sodium bicarbonate (Mix plus). The values obtained for the rumen pH content show that subacute rumen acidosis occurs in in 20 percent of the examined cows in the early stage of lactation. For these investigations, cows in early stages of lactation were chosen and divided into 2 groups. Cows of the experimental group were administered a fodder mix which contained the mineral mix for a buffer effect (Mix plus). The average values of the rumen pH content in the control and the experimental group of cows at the beginning and on the 30th day of the experiment were approximately the same and did not differ significantly (p>0.05). On the 60th day of the experiment, the values for the electrochemical reaction of the rumen content for the control group amounted to an average of 6.219±0.18, and for the experimental group of cows it was 6.772±0.23. The obtained difference was statistically very significant (p

Valid indicators of the energy status of cows are the body condition, parameters of the metabolic profile, hormonal status, and organic components of milk. The energy status of cows of the Holstein-Friesian breed from four farms was estimated on the grounds of urea, protein and fat concentration in milk. Investigations covered 62 samples of milk (11 from farm A, 16 from farm B, 15 from farm C, and 20 from farm D). All cows were in the first stage of lactation and fed rations recommended for that category of animal. The average fat concentration in all milk samples was 23±13 g/l, the average protein concentration was 29±3 g/l, while the average urea concentration was 4.6±1.3 mmol/l. It could be concluded on the basis of the value for the milk fat concentration alone that a decreased milk fat syndrome was present. In addition, graphic presentations are given for the relation between urea concentration and protein concentration, as well as protein and fat concentrations in the individual milk samples. Such an analysis provided a more detailed picture of the energy status of the examined cows. It was established that cows on farm A had a deficiency of energy and protein, and cows on farms B and C a deficiency of energy with a relative surplus of proteins. It was established that cows from farm D had a deficiency of energy, and there was an equal number of cows with a deficiency and with a relative surplus of proteins. The obtained results provide grounds for making recommendations for correcting the feed rations and improving the health of the cows. It stems from the obtained results that the determination of urea, fat and protein concentrations in milk is a reliable indicator of the energy status of cows, that it is rational and financially acceptable for every producer, regardless of whether it is implemented in small or large cattle farms. The diagnostic procedures used so far have been implemented in a limited form in daily practice because of insufficient reliability (evaluation of body condition) or lack of economic feasibility (metabolic profile and hormonal status of cows).

From the very onset of lactation, the requirements of the mammary gland have an advantage over the requirements of other organic systems, even in the case of clinically exhibited ketosis. In hypoglycemic, ketotic cows, the mammary gland utilizes glucosis approximately in the same degree as the mammary gland of cows with normal glycemia. This indicates that the regulatory role of hormones can have primary importance in the earliest phase of lactation, when metabolic processes are on the very brink of a ketotic state. That is why it is believed that, in conditions of a great burdening of the metabolism, inadequate activity by the adrenocortical system presents one of the primary factors in the etiopathogenesis of ketosis in dairy cows. It is still an open issue whether hypof unction of the adrenal cortex is a direct cause of this disorder, or whether its activity is a consequence of insufficient stimulation by ACTH. In ketotic cows, average concentrations of cortisol have been established in ketotic cows, from 23.98 nmol/l in blood serum, and it is approximately the same as in healthy cows in the corresponding phase of lactation. However, the vast range of individual values largely makes it difficult to make a correct evaluation of the functional state of the adrenal cortex of ketotic cows. On the grounds of individual figures, in 26% diseased cows cortisol concentration in blood serum is from 1.38 to 16.55 nmol/l, in 37% it is from 16.55 to 27.59 nmol/l, and in 37 percent it is over 27.59 nmol/l. This indicates that cows with clinical symptoms of ketosis can be divided into those with low, medium, or high values of cortisol concentration in blood serum. Following the stimulation of the adrenal cortex with ACTH, the individual differences in serum cortisol concentration are considerably decreased. The ratio between the lowest and the highest values of cortisol concentration before the application of ACTH is 1:6, while it is only 1:1.5 four hours following application. After that, the values again take on the starting characteristics, and 24 hours after the application of ACTH they return to the starting values, and the ratio between the individual values is 1:8. It seems that the function of the adrenal cortex has been preserved in cows with clinical symptoms of ketosis and it is capable of reacting fully to stimulation with corticotropin. The cortisolemia values indicate, primarily, that there are big individual differences regarding the regulation of the degree of activity of the adrenal cortex, so that it is possible that, in the ketotic state, it is rather a case of uncoordinated activities of the adrenal cortex with the organism requirements imposed by the mammary gland, than that it is a matter of its hypofunction. .

Rumen acidosis is a very important pathophysiological disorder in intensive productive dairy cows, it is mostly a problem in early lactation when highly concentrated feeds are used in nutrition. The use of mineral salt mix based on bentonite, zeolite, magnesium oxide and sodium bicarbonate stabilizes and maintains pH of ruminal fluid in physiological values (6,79 to 6,92) and prevents the occurrence of rumen acidosis. In cows in the control group, the pH of ruminal fluid was at a low physiological level (6.01 to 6.25) and in some animals even lower. By adding this mixture of mineral salts to the concentrated part of feed (1%) optimal conditions are provided for activity and adequate numerous distribution of all species of infusoria in the rumen. The daily amount of milk produced and milk fat as well was 10 percent bigger in the experimental compared to the control group of cows.

The study examined effects of thyroid manipulation with propylthiouracil (PTU) on the metabolic adaptability of transitional dairy cows to early lactation. The study included 30 primiparous Holstein-Friesian cows, which were divided into two groups: PTU+ (n = 15; received orally 4 mg/kg PTU during 20 days before expected calving) and PTU− (n = 15; did not receive orally PTU). Blood was sampled from each cow consecutively from − 20, − 17, − 13, − 5, − 4, − 3, − 2, and − 1 days before the expected term of calving, calving day (0), and + 1, + 2, + 3, + 4, + 5, + 10, + 15, + 30 and + 60 days after the calving to measure thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), insulin, glucose, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), bilirubin, total protein and albumin concentrations. Liver samples were biopsied at −7 ± 2 and +7 day relative to calving from both groups of cows to determine deiodinase (DIO) expressions and fat and glycogen content. Additionally, milk yield was monitored during the first 60 days of lactation. PTU successfully induced thyroid suppression by significantly reducing T3 and T4 concentrations and hepatic DIO1 expressions and caused PTU+ cows to have significantly higher insulin and glucose concentration in the precalving period. After calving, PTU+ cows had higher insulin and glucose concentration, liver glycogen content and overall milk production, lower BHB concentration, BCS loss, and liver fat deposits. Accordingly, cows treated with PTU have a more favourable energy balance and metabolic adaptation to early lactation. HIGHLIGHTS: PTU suppressed thyroid function before parturition in dairy cattle through the effect on T3 and T4 synthesis and DIO1 enzyme expression in liver. After parturition increase in the T3 and T4 concentration accompanied by changes in insulin, glucose, and BHB indicate more favourable energy status. Positive impact of PTU treatment appears in the period when control of energy metabolism is key factor for preserving the health and productivity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]