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The purpose of the current study was to assess the impact of pregnancy toxaemia on hematobiochemical and hormonal changes together with treatment trial of diseased ewes. This study was done on 15, 3-4 years old (5 healthy-10 ewes suffered from pregnancy toxaemia) were divided into 3 groups (5 /group). Gp (1) clinically healthy ewes (control group), Gp (2) diseased ewes received 150 ml of dextrose (25%) (I/V), 100 ml propylene glycol daily for3 sucessive days (orally), 1ml Cal- De-Mag kgm/ bwt and 1 ampole of vitamin B complex IM, Gp (3) diseased ewes treated with same drug and dose used in 2nd group in addition 0.4 unite insulin/kgm bwt (S/C) daily for 3 sucessive days. Urine samples were collected pre-treatment and post treatment for detection of ketone bodies, glucose and protein. Blood was drawn from each subject ewes pre-treatment and at 5 & 10 days post treatment for determination hematobiochemical and hormonal parameters. Pregnancy toxaemic ewes exhibited many signs such as anorexia, depression, disinclined to move - blindness, excessive salivation, teeth grinding, a listening attitude and sternal recumbency. the number of feti in control group was 1.40 but in ewes suffered from pregnancy toxemia were 2.20 in Gp (2) and 2.60 in Gp (3). Urine of diseased ewes revealed presence of ketone bodies, glucoserea and protein. The obtained results demonstrated that pregnancy toxemia induced significant decreases in total erythrocytic count (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), paked cell volume % (PCV%), insulin, triiodothyronin (T3), thyroxin (T4), immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG), super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) glucose, and calcium beside significant increases in cortisol, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanin aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine and β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-HBA). Additionally marginal increases in total leukocytic count (WBCs), eosinophils, and lymphocytes coupled with insignifcant decreases in neutrophils, monocytes and basophil when compared with the control ewes were also observed. Teatment of the diseased ewes lead to reterned hemato-biochemical parameters to nearlly nomal level at 10th day post teatment when compared with control ewes. Ewes received insulin in treatment the hematobiochemical parameters was improvement than ewes not received insulin. It was determined that pregnantcy toxaemia caused numerous negative effects on hematobiochemical parameters but treatment with dextrose, propylene glycol, Cal-De-Mag, vitamin B complex and insulin could improve such negative effects [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy toxemia is a metabolic disorder that afflicts goats when the heightened energy requirements preceding parturition are not sufficiently satisfied. At present, the potential association between pregnancy toxemia and the free amino acid composition in hair goats remains uncharted territory. The purpose of this study is to investigate the free amino acid profile in goats during the pivotal three weeks preceding delivery, distinguishing among those with subclinical pregnancy toxemia (SPT), clinical pregnancy toxemia (CPT), and those in the control group (CG). Additionally, the study aims to investigate any potential relationship between the amino acid profile and beta hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) levels. The researchers analyzed a total of 50 goats, comprising 20 goats with SPT, 20 with CPT, and 10 in the CG. The serum free amino acid profile was determined using a gas chromatography flame ionization detector (GC-FID) device. BHBA concentration in goats with CPT and SPT was significantly higher than KG (p < 0.001). Furthermore, in goats with CPT, the glucose concentration was significantly lower than in CG (p < 0.012). In goats with CPT and SPT, the concentration of valine, one of the gluconeogenic amino acids, was significantly higher than in control group (p < 0.001), while histidine concentration was significantly lower (p < 0.020) than in control group. Specifically in goats with CPT, the concentrations of alanine (p < 0.002), serine (p < 0.001), and threonine (p < 0.043) were significantly lower than in control group. Moreover, the concentration of phenylalanine, which is both a glycogenic and ketogenic amino acid, was significantly lower (p < 0.028) in goats with SPT compared to the control group. The Fisher ratio (p < 0.010) and Glycine/Alanine ratio (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in pregnancy toxemia goats with than in control group goats, indicating a poor nutritional and energy status of the goats during the prepartum period. In summation, the findings of this study underscore that amino acids exhibiting marked concentration variations hold considerable promise in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of pregnancy toxemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Pregnancy toxemia is a common disease, which occurs in older does that are pregnant with multiple lambs in the third trimester. Most of the sick goats die within a few days, which can seriously impact the economic benefits of goat breeding enterprises. The disease is believed to be caused by malnutrition, stress, and other factors, that lead to the disorder of lipid metabolism, resulting in increased ketone content, ketosis, ketonuria, and neurological symptoms. However, the changes in gut microbes and their metabolism in this disease are still unclear. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of toxemia of pregnancy on the fecal microbiome and metabolomics of does. Results Eight pregnant does suspected of having toxemia of pregnancy (PT group) and eight healthy does during the same pregnancy (NC group) were selected. Clinical symptoms and pathological changes at necropsy were observed, and liver tissue samples were collected for pathological sections. Jugular venous blood was collected before morning feeding to detect biochemical indexes. Autopsy revealed that the liver of the pregnancy toxemia goat was enlarged and earthy yellow, and the biochemical results showed that the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and β-hydroxybutyric acid (B-HB) in the PT group were significantly increased, while calcium (Ca) levels were significantly reduced. Sections showed extensive vacuoles in liver tissue sections. The microbiome analysis found that the richness and diversity of the PT microbiota were significantly reduced. Metabolomic analysis showed that 125 differential metabolites were screened in positive ion mode and enriched in 12 metabolic pathways. In negative ion mode, 100 differential metabolites were screened and enriched in 7 metabolic pathways. Conclusions Evidence has shown that the occurrence of pregnancy toxemia is related to gut microbiota, and further studies are needed to investigate its pathogenesis and provide research basis for future preventive measures of this disease.

Copyright of Firat Universitesi Saglik Bilimleri Veteriner Dergisi is the property of Firat Universitesiu, Saglik Bilimleri Enstitusu 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.)

Background: Pregnancy toxemia is a common disease, which occurs in older does that are pregnant with multiple lambs in the third trimester. Most of the sick goats die within a few days, which can seriously impact the economic benefits of goat breeding enterprises. The disease is believed to be caused by malnutrition, stress, and other factors, that lead to the disorder of lipid metabolism, resulting in increased ketone content, ketosis, ketonuria, and neurological symptoms. However, the changes in gut microbes and their metabolism in this disease are still unclear. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of toxemia of pregnancy on the fecal microbiome and metabolomics of does. Results: Eight pregnant does suspected of having toxemia of pregnancy (PT group) and eight healthy does during the same pregnancy (NC group) were selected. Clinical symptoms and pathological changes at necropsy were observed, and liver tissue samples were collected for pathological sections. Jugular venous blood was collected before morning feeding to detect biochemical indexes. Autopsy revealed that the liver of the pregnancy toxemia goat was enlarged and earthy yellow, and the biochemical results showed that the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and β-hydroxybutyric acid (B-HB) in the PT group were significantly increased, while calcium (Ca) levels were significantly reduced. Sections showed extensive vacuoles in liver tissue sections. The microbiome analysis found that the richness and diversity of the PT microbiota were significantly reduced. Metabolomic analysis showed that 125 differential metabolites were screened in positive ion mode and enriched in 12 metabolic pathways. In negative ion mode, 100 differential metabolites were screened and enriched in 7 metabolic pathways. Conclusions: Evidence has shown that the occurrence of pregnancy toxemia is related to gut microbiota, and further studies are needed to investigate its pathogenesis and provide research basis for future preventive measures of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract L-carnitine, an increasingly vital compound in livestock nutrition, plays a pivotal role in facilitating the β-oxidation of fatty acids. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of L-carnitine supplementation, administered at varying doses, on pregnancy toxemia susceptible goats. A total of 150 goats underwent estrus synchronization, natural mating, and pregnancy confirmation. Among these, 90 goats carrying multiple fetuses were categorized into three groups on the 100th day of pregnancy, with their feed supplemented as follows: CAR50 (50 mg/kg of L-carnitine), CAR100 (100 mg/kg of L-carnitine), and CON (control without L-carnitine). Subsequently, blood samples were collected from 15 randomly selected goats from each group on days 100, 115, 130, and 145 of pregnancy to quantify serum levels of β-HBA (beta-hydroxybutyrate) and NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids), alongside glucose levels. Dietary supplementation of L-carnitine did not exert a significant impact on blood glucose levels in the CAR50 and CAR100 groups, in comparison to the CON group, during the third trimester of pregnancy (P>0.05). Nevertheless, serum NEFA levels exhibited a noteworthy reduction in the CAR50 and CAR100 groups compared to the CON group on day 145 (P0.05). The body condition score exhibited consistent maintenance both within and between groups (P>0.05). To conclude, this study underscores the efficacy of dietary supplementation with L-carnitine in mitigating ketone and NEFA levels in pregnant goats, particularly when administered at a dosage of 100 mg/kg. Consequently, the integration of a standardized quantity of L-carnitine into the diet holds the potential to serve as a valuable preventive strategy for goats susceptible to pregnancy toxemia.

Pregnancy toxemia is one of the most common metabolic disorders in ewes. Widely appearing during the late stage of gestation when there is an increase in energy demand due to rapid fetal udder development and colostrum production, this disease can have a high impact on economic losses such as fetal loss and maternal mortality. A 6-year-old ewe of the Rembi breed was brought for treatment at the Tiaret Institute of Veterinary Sciences. She was at the last 7 days of pregnancy, fed with barley and bran, and presented with anorexia, weakness, staggering gait, dyspnea, and a loss of reflex. Biochemical analyses showed an increase in the values of beta-hydroxybutyrate and cholesterol with a decrease in the values of glucose, total proteins, calcium, and phosphorus. On the other hand, hematological analyses recorded a decrease in red blood cell count and hematocrit value and an increase in the value of mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Interestingly, and contrary to our expectations, we observed hemoglobin crystallization in the peripheral blood smear of the case under study, which can be due to the increase in ketone bodies. The end of gestation in small ruminants is the most critical period because, during this period, several metabolic diseases can take place, such as pregnancy toxemia and hypocalcemia. Therefore, this case is aimed at presenting the clinical signs, causes, diagnosis, and prognosis of this disease in the Rembi breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious and non-infectious abortions are necessary to be evaluated in Saanen and Alpine breeds as they have been recently imported to Iran whith out enough information about their susceptibility to diseases in the country situation. The present study aimed to investigate the causes of abortion in Saanen and Alpine to compare their susceptibility to each identified abortion factor. Methods: A total of 600 Saanen and 600 Alpine breeds were studied. Abomasal contents of foeti and serum samples from aborted does were analyzed by PCR and conventional culture methods and beta-hydroxy butyrate was measured in the serum of aborted animals. Results: Among 1200 pregnant goats, 59 Saanens and 80 Alpines aborted their fetus. Escherichia coli was isolated from 4 Saanens and 3 Alpines. Trueperella pyogenes was isolated from 5 Saanens and 7 Alpines. Pregnancy toxemia was the cause of abortion in 12 Saanens and 30 Alpines which showed a significant difference between the two breeds. Six Saanens and 10 Alpines aborted their fetus following trauma. Conclusion: As abortion is an economically important issue, especially for the breeds which we have less information about, the susceptibility of animals and the frequency of each abortifacient should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Current Retina Journal / Güncel Retina Dergisi is the property of Anadolu Kitabevi Basim Yayim Medikal Turizm Kirtasiye Tic. Ltd. Sti. 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.)

Pregnancy toxemia is known as an important metabolic disorder in pregnant ewes, which often causes damage to the animal husbandry industry in the final months of pregnancy by increasing the number of casualties or reducing the productivity of ewes. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between subclinical pregnancy toxemia and litter size in Lori-Bakhtiari ewes and the relationship between BHBA (Beta-hydroxybutyric ‌acid), glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in non-pregnant and pregnant (singleton and twins) ewes. Jugular vein blood samples were obtained from 103 Lori-Bakhtiari ewes including 30 non-pregnant ewes (control group) and 73 pregnant ewes in their fifth month of pregnancy (68 singleton and 5 twins). Concentration of BHBA, glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol in serum samples were measured using commercial kits and photometry. There was no significant difference regarding BHBA and cholesterol between the three studied groups. There was a significant difference in serum glucose concentration between the control group with singleton pregnant and twin pregnant groups (p

Background: Accurate and rapid measurement of blood β‐hydroxybutyrate (β‐OHB) concentrations is critical to identify hyperketonemia in sheep. Objective: The objective of this study was to test the performance of Freestyle Optium Neo H and TaiDoc‐TD4235 point‐of‐care (POC) devices for measuring blood β‐OHB concentrations in sheep. Methods: Venous blood samples from 105 sheep were evaluated with Freestyle Optium Neo H and TaiDoc‐TD4235 meters. A reference approach was the laboratory measurement of serum BHB concentrations using the Randox D‐3 Hydroxybutyrate reagent kit. Data were analyzed using Passing‐ Bablok regression and Bland–Altman analysis. The diagnostic accuracy was assessed using serum β‐OHB concentration at a cut‐off value of 0.8 mmol/L. Results: Passing‐Bablok regression analysis revealed an intercept of 0.066 (CI95: 0.018–0.125) and slope of 1.242 (CI95: 1.136–1.342) for Freestyle Optium Neo H. Intercept and slope values for the TaiDoc‐TD4235 meter were 0.625 (CI95: 0.539–0.724) and 1.265 (CI95: 1.044–1.497), respectively. The Bland–Altman plot revealed a bias of 0.224 mmol/L and 0.737 mmol/L for Freestyle Optium Neo H and TaiDoc‐TD4235 meters, respectively, compared with the reference method. Observed Total Error (TEobs) was 56.7% for the Freestyle Optium Neo H and 168.7% for the Taidoc‐TD4235. The sensitivity and specificity for the Freestyle Optium Neo H were 100% and 80.9%, respectively, at the threshold of 0.8 mmol/L. The Taidoc‐TD4235 demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.3% and specificity of 8.9% at the threshold of 0.8 mmol/L. Conclusions: Because of the large TEobs, the Freestyle Optium Neo H and TaiDoc‐TD4235 meters should not be used to quantify blood β‐OHB concentrations in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and indicators of energy metabolism during the peripartum period of ewes submitted to different diets and with or without pregnancy toxemia. Forty Santa Inês ewes were divided into three groups, a group of 20 animals fed only roughage-diet with low energy density (G1), a group of 10 ewes submitted to diet containing roughage and concentrate-diet with high energy density (G2), and a group of 10 ewes with diagnosis of pregnancy toxemia (PT) (G3). In the ewes of groups G1 and G2, blood samples were collected -30, -15, -7 days pre-partum, on the day of partum, and 7, 15, and 30 days postpartum; blood samples from G3 animals were collected during the veterinary clinic care. Significant variations were observed in the plasma concentration of glucose and serum folic acid, cobalamin, fructosamine, NEFA, and β-hydroxybutyrate in the groups fed diets with different energy levels, with and without PT (P < 0.05). A positive correlation of folic acid and cobalamin was observed with plasma glucose and serum NEFA concentrations, in addition to negative correlation of glucose with NEFA and β-hydroxybutyrate and positive correlation between the latter biomarkers of energy metabolism. The ewes diagnosed with PT showed higher levels of folic acid, NEFA, and β-hydroxybutyrate (P < 0.05). Ewes fed diet containing roughage and concentrate present higher serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and glucose, in the pre-partum period and in the lactation period. The results obtained contribute to better understanding of the application of blood concentration tests for folic acid and cobalamin in the energy metabolism and in PT in ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy toxemia is a nutritional metabolic disease during late gestation in small ruminants. The condition is characterized by disorders in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Obese and multiparous ewes are particularly susceptible to pregnancy toxemia, which may lead to maternal death, abortion, or premature birth. Highly productive multiparous meat ewes are major breeding animals, which has led to an increased incidence of the disease. However, the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia remains unclear and adequate disease prevention and treatment strategies are absent. Investigating the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia, especially the metabolic pathways of hepatic lipids, is key to an improved understanding of the condition. This review provides a snapshot of the genes that are associated with lipid metabolism in the ovine liver, including genes involved in fatty acid oxidation, acetyl coenzyme metabolism, and triglyceride synthesis; describes the interrelationships between these genes; and summarizes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pregnancy toxemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Firat Universitesi Saglik Bilimleri Veteriner Dergisi is the property of Firat Universitesiu, Saglik Bilimleri Enstitusu 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.)

This study was conducted on ewes with pregnancy toxemia (PT) with an attempt to evaluate metabolic and oxidative profile in subclinical and clinical ovine pregnancy toxemia and to determine their association with diagnosis and prognosis of the disease. A total of 20 ewes having beta-hydroxy butyric acid (β-HBA) > 2.5 mmol/L and proven clinical sings of PT, categorized as clinical PT (CPT); 12 ewes having β-HBA 0.8–2.5 mmol/L and no clinical signs of PT, categorized at subclinical PT (SPT); and 10 ewes having β-HBA ≤ 0.8 mmol/L, categorized as healthy control (CON) were enrolled. Among 20 CPT ewes, 11 had negative outcomes (non-survivors), six ewes had positive outcomes (survivors), and three were lost during follow-up. A significant increase in non-esterified fatty acid, β-HBA, triglycerides, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde levels and a significant decrease in fructosamine were observed in CPT and SPT compared to CON. A significant increase in cholesterol, aspartate amino transferase, and creatinine kinase and a significant decrease in albumin, potassium, calcium, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were observed in CPT only. Glucose was significantly decreased in SPT only. The highest area under the curve (AUC) was observed for fructosamine (89.7% and 87.5% for CPT and SPT, respectively) with the optimum cutoff point calculated on the basis of maximum sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP) being 0.607 mmol/L (SE: 89.3% and SP: 72.2%) and 1.005 mmol/L (SE: 90.0% and SP: 75.3%) for CPT and SPT, respectively. At the cutoff limit of 0.607 mmol/L and 1.005 mmol/L, the odds ratio was 10.8 and 8.0 for CPT and SPT, respectively. A significant decrease in fructosamine and potassium and a significant increase in creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde were observed in non-survivors compared to survivors. It was thus concluded that fructosamine was the best diagnostic indicator of both CPT and SPT followed by non-esterified fatty acid. Fructosamine, creatinine, potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde were the best prognostic indicators of PT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis and diagnosis of subclinical pregnancy toxemia (SCPT) remain elusive and need further investigation in pregnant does. Therefore, the aim of our study was to describe the typical properties of hepatic venous hemodynamics by Doppler ultrasonography. A total of 70 pregnant does were classified based on the blood serum concentrations of β-hydroxybutyric acid (βHBA), pregnant does were categorized into control group (βHBA concentrations <0.8 mmol/L; n = 40) and SCPT group (βHBA concentrations >0.8 mmol/L; n = 30). DRAMISKI 4vet slim diagnostic ultrasound scanner with B, M, and Doppler (color, power, pulsing wave) modes was used for diagnosis of SCPT. Total serum cortisol level was quantitative using chemiluminescent immunoassay. Serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL and LDL- cholesterol and LDH- cholesterol were measured by colorimetric and kinetic methods. Liver ultrasonography of does with SCPT had been shown mild fatty infiltration with rounded margin, which was characterized by hyperechoic area. There was a significant decrease in the values of portal vein diameter (PVD), portal vein area (PVA), portal mean velocity (PMV) and portal blood flow (PBF) in SCPT does compared to control pregnant does. PVD, PVA and PBF were negatively correlated with βHBA concentrations in does with SCPT (P < 0.05). PVD was inversely associated with serum cholesterol and triglycerides concentrations (P < 0.05). In conclusions, Doppler ultrasonography examinations of pregnant does with SCPT indicate abnormal hepatic variation. Reduced PVD, PVA, PMV and PBF together with increased βHBA concentrations could predict SCPT in does with fair sensitivity and specificity., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study was aimed at evaluating the risk factors, alterations in blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), hemato-biochemical biomarkers for earlier detection of pregnancy toxemia (PT) and comparative efficacy of therapeutic protocols in Beetal goats. A total of (N=100) goats between 120-150 days of gestation were examined. Goats having BHB >3 mmol/L were considered positive for PT by employing Freestyle™ Optium Kit. Risk factors parity, age, body weight, number of fetuses, grazing and housing, were significantly (P

Pregnancy toxemia (PT) is the most frequent metabolic disorder for ewes in late pregnancy. Although propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GLY) are common glycogenic supplements for treating PT in ewes, the relative benefit of these supplements is not clear. In a previous study, it was demonstrated that PG was mainly effective in reducing the β-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHB) concentration, whereas GLY was more effective in increasing the plasma glucose concentration. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to determine the effects of drenching various doses and combinations of PG and GLY to late-pregnant ewes in order to obtain a simultaneous increase in glucose and a decrease in BHB. Sixty-six multiparous Afec-Assaf ewes bearing at least two fetuses were used in 3 consecutive experiments. In all experiments, blood samples were collected twice before drenching (at 0630 and 0645 h), then the ewes were drenched with each supplement at 0700 h, and blood samples were taken every hour for 12–14 h post-drenching. In experiment 1, ewes were drenched either with 1) Control (CTL1, n = 6) – 55 mL water, 2) PG100 (n = 6) – 106 mL of PG, 3) GLY100 (n = 6) –108 mL of Koforin (containing 80 % glycerol, 15 % water, and 5 % ash), 4) PG50 (n = 6) – 53 mL of PG, and 5) GLY50 (n = 6) – 54 mL of Koforin. The plasma glucose concentration was higher after the GLY50 (P = 0.03) and GLY100 (P = 0.01) treatments than in CTL1. The plasma BHB concentration was lower after the PG50 (P = 0.001) and GLY50 (P = 0.02) treatments and tended to be lower in the PG100-treated ewes (P = 0.10) than in the CTL1 ewes. In experiment 2, ewes were drenched with 1) Control (CTL2, n = 6) –55 mL water, 2) MIX50 (n = 6) –26.5 mL PG + 27 mL Koforin, and 3) MIX100 (n = 6) –53 mL PG + 54 mL Koforin. No differences were observed among treatments for the main blood metabolites. In experiment 3, ewes were drenched with 1) Control (CTL3, n = 6) – 110 mL water, 2) MIX200(1:1) (n = 6) –106 mL PG +108 mL Koforin, and 3) MIX200(3:7) (n = 6) – 63.4 mL PG +150.6 mL Koforin. The plasma glucose concentrations were 17.8 % and 20.9 %, respectively, higher in the MIX200(1:1) and MIX200(3:7) ewes than in the CTL3 ewes (P < 0.01). The plasma BHB concentrations in the MIX200(1:1) and MIX200(3:7) ewes were 42 % and 47 %, respectively, lower than in the CTL3 ewes (P < 0.03). The NEFA concentration in the MIX200(1:1) and MIX200(3:7) ewes was 60 % and 57 %, respectively, lower than in the CTL3 ewes (P = 0.008). In conclusion, MIX200(1:1) and MIX200(3:7) were the most effective approaches to increasing glucose and reducing the BHB and NEFA concentrations concomitantly in the plasma of late-pregnant ewes. • Low doses of propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GLY) were ineffective in treating ewes. • High doses of mixtures of PG and GLY increased blood glucose in late-pregnant ewes. • High doses of mixtures of PG and GLY reduced blood β-hydroxybutyrate. • High doses of mixtures of PG and GLY may be effective for treating PT in ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy toxemia is a nutritional metabolic disease during late gestation in small ruminants. The condition is characterized by disorders in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Obese and multiparous ewes are particularly susceptible to pregnancy toxemia, which may lead to maternal death, abortion, or premature birth. Highly productive multiparous meat ewes are major breeding animals, which has led to an increased incidence of the disease. However, the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia remains unclear and adequate disease prevention and treatment strategies are absent. Investigating the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia, especially the metabolic pathways of hepatic lipids, is key to an improved understanding of the condition. This review provides a snapshot of the genes that are associated with lipid metabolism in the ovine liver, including genes involved in fatty acid oxidation, acetyl coenzyme metabolism, and triglyceride synthesis; describes the interrelationships between these genes; and summarizes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pregnancy toxemia.

Pregnancy toxemia is one of the common metabolic diseases in ruminant, which has caused a huge economic impact on the dairy industry. Thus, this study aimed to describe the clinical and blood changes in pregnant goats following induction of pregnancy toxemia. Twelve pregnant goats were divided into control (n=3) and treatment (n=9) groups. The control was fed a diet with adequate energy while the treatment group was exposed to 50% reduction in the energy intake to induce pregnancy toxemia. Blood samples were collected at weekly intervals for biochemical analyses, which included glucose, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), free fatty acid (FFA), calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, cortisol, and insulin. On days 20 (PK20) and 40 (PK40) post-induction, 3 induced and 1 control goat was slaughtered while the remaining 3 induced goats were provided with a normal balanced diet to allow recovery (PKRD). The induction resulted in acute pregnancy toxemia after 20 days with clinical signs including weakness, loss of body condition, and recumbency. At 40 days, chronic pregnancy toxemia resulted in signs such as incoordination and abortion. There was significant (p<0.05) decrease in the glucose, insulin, calcium, and potassium levels in the induced goats while the concentrations of BHBA, FFA, and cortisol were significantly (p<0.05) higher. Furthermore, the blood profiling was significantly (p<0.05) different between the PK20, PK40, and PKRD groups and was strongly associated with the presence of clinical signs and ketone bodies in the urine. The 50% reduction in energy intake resulted in acute pregnancy toxemia after 20 days and chronic pregnancy toxemia after 40 days. In conclusion, serum biochemical profile is a potential biomarker to assess the mild and severe pregnancy toxemia in does during the late gestation and postpartum period through changes in blood profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy toxemia is one of the common metabolic diseases in ruminant, which has caused a huge economic impact on the dairy industry. Thus, this study aimed to describe the clinical and blood changes in pregnant goats following induction of pregnancy toxemia. Twelve pregnant goats were divided into control (n=3) and treatment (n=9) groups. The control was fed a diet with adequate energy while the treatment group was exposed to 50% reduction in the energy intake to induce pregnancy toxemia. Blood samples were collected at weekly intervals for biochemical analyses, which included glucose, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), free fatty acid (FFA), calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, cortisol, and insulin. On days 20 (PK20) and 40 (PK40) post-induction, 3 induced and 1 control goat was slaughtered while the remaining 3 induced goats were provided with a normal balanced diet to allow recovery (PKRD). The induction resulted in acute pregnancy toxemia after 20 days with clinical signs including weakness, loss of body condition, and recumbency. At 40 days, chronic pregnancy toxemia resulted in signs such as incoordination and abortion. There was significant (p

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to characterize the biochemical, hormonal, and mineral profile, and histopathology of the liver and kidneys, related to the severity of natural cases of pregnancy toxemia (PT) in sheep. A total of 45 sheep with PT were analyzed at the “Clínica de Bovinos”, Campus Garanhuns-UFRPE. The animals were submitted to clinical examination, followed by the collection of blood and urine. A necropsy was performed on thirteen animals that died and a histopathological examination was performed on samples of liver and kidneys. Increased creatinine, urea, glucose, fructosamine, non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, cortisol, chlorine, amylase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and folic acid were found, whereas insulin, potassium, and total and ionizable calcium presented low values for the species. Total protein, albumin, globulin, sodium, magnesium, and vitamin B12 remained within the normal range. In the macroscopic analysis of the liver, it was possible to observe an increase in organ and border size, yellowish coloration and parenchyma that varied from firm to friable. Vacuolation of the hepatocytes and renal tubular cells was observed. Metabolic disorders in sheep associated with hepatic and renal lesions are more apparent in overweight animals. With the greater impairment in hepatic and renal function, the clinical prognosis of animals with a high body score should be considered reserved.

This study was aimed at evaluating the risk factors, alterations in blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), hemato-biochemical biomarkers for earlier detection of pregnancy toxemia (PT) and comparative efficacy of therapeutic protocols in Beetal goats. A total of (N=100) goats between 120-150 days of gestation were examined. Goats having BHB >3 mmol/L were considered positive for PT by employing Freestyle™ Optium Kit. Risk factors parity, age, body weight, number of fetuses, grazing and housing, were significantly (P<0.05) associated with incidence of PT. Packed cell volume (PCV), WBCs, neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes were significantly higher in affected animals. Total protein and albumin were low while ALT, AST, ALP, GGT creatinine and BUN were significantly elevated. Twenty-four diseased goats were divided into two groups. Animals in group A were administered with 10% dextrose and propylene glycol orally, twice a day (BID) for three days. Whereas, in group B aforementioned treatment was supplemented with 0.15 mg/kg/SC recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST), once a day (OID). Treatment efficacy was 75% and 83.3% in group A and B, respectively. Significant improvement in BHB, hemato-biochemical parameters were observed in goats receiving rbST. This study highlighted the significance of risk factors and hemato-biochemical biomarkers for earlier diagnosis of PT. Treatment with rbST, 10% dextrose and propylene glycol had significant effect on improvement of hemato-biochemical parameters in PT in Beetal goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vitamin D has profound effect on oxidative stress by altering the total antioxidant capacity. • Ewes with insufficient vitamin D are more likely to have negative energy balance at two weeks pre-lambing and at lambing. • Ewes with insufficient vitamin D had greater odds of developing subclinical pregnancy toxemia at 2 weeks pre-lambing. The study aimed to evaluate the role of vitamin D on redox balance, insulin resistance and its predicting value for subclinical pregnancy toxemia (SPT) in pregnant ewes. At four weeks pre-lambing, fifteen healthy pregnant ewes were divided into two groups, ewes with sufficient vitamin D (25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25VitD) (SVD, n = 9) and ewes with insufficient 25VitD (ISVD, n = 6). Blood samples were collected at 4 weeks pre-lambing using modified frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test for the estimation of various metabolites. The baseline glucose, insulin, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), fructosamine, beta-hydroxy butyric acid (β-BHA), calcium, phosphorus concentration and total oxidant status (TOS) did not differ significantly between the two groups, however, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was significantly (p = 0.031) low in ISVD ewes. Area under the curve for glucose, insulin, elimination rate of glucose and peak insulin also did not differ significantly between the two groups. Correlation analysis revealed, positive association of 25VitD with fructosamine, calcium and TAC, and negative correlation with NEFA and TOS. Subsequent blood sampling at 2 weeks pre-lambing and at lambing showed significant difference in NEFA (p = 0.001), β-HBA (p = 0.001), and fructosamine(p = 0.012) between the two groups. A significant time x group interaction was observed in NEFA (p = 0.019), β-HBA (p = 0.031), and fructosamine (p = 0.026) concentration. The NEFA concentrations were increased and fructosamine decreased at 2 weeks pre-lambing and at lambing along with significantly increased β-HBA at 2 weeks pre-lambing in ISVD compared to SVD. Taking 0.8 mmol/L β-HBA as the cut off limit for SPT, ISVD ewes had higher odds of developing SPT two weeks prior to lambing (OD 16.00; p = 0.042) and at lambing (OD 10; p = 0.077). This study concludes that 25VitD significantly influence redox balance and energy profile and serves as a valuable predictor for SPT in pregnant sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia (PT) is believed to be associated with the disruption of lipid metabolism. The present study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms of lipid metabolism disorder in the livers of ewes with PT. In total, 10 pregnant ewes were fed normally (control group) whereas another 10 were subjected to 70% level feed restriction for 15 days to establish a pathological model of PT. Results showed that, as compared with the controls, the levels of blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and cholesterol were greater (P

Fatty liver represents a significant metabolic pathology of excess intrahepatic fat in domestic animals and humans. Quantification of hepatic-fat content is therefore essential for diagnosis and investigation of liver and metabolic disease. However, the reproducibility of hepatic steatosis analysis is often low due to subjective and technical factors. We hypothesized that improvement in tissue-lipids extraction efficiency would contribute to the accuracy and precision of liver-fat determination. To test it, we investigated the effect of standardized tissue sonication on liver-fat quantification by the Folch method in sheep. Liver samples from grownup lambs of lean (n = 16) and fatty (n = 15) livers, and from pregnant ewes (n = 6) who died from pregnancy toxemia (PT), were used for hepatic-fat content determination with or without tissue sonication. In the grown lambs, an average hepatic-fat content of 6.6% was determined in sonicated compared to 5.1% in non-sonicated specimens (P = 0.0002). Similarly, in ewes with PT, an average of 12.5% was determined with sonication compared to 10.8% without it (P = 0.0006), and the reproducibility was higher with sonication (CV of 3.1 vs. 6.1%, respectively). Thus, tissue sonication improved the efficiency of liver-lipids extraction and was significant to the accuracy and precision of hepatic-fat determination. Enzymatic quantification of triglycerides was moderately correlated with the results obtained gravimetrically (r = 0.632, P < 0.005). The reported data provide reliable reference values for pregnancy toxemic sheep. The significant improvement in liver-fat quantification observed with the reported revised protocol is likely applicable to most mammals and humans.

Pregnancy toxemia is the most frequent metabolic disorder of ewes in late pregnancy. Although propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GLY) are common glucogenic supplements for treating pregnancy toxemia in ewes, the relative benefit of these 2 supplements is not entirely clear. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to determine the changes during 24 h in key blood metabolites and insulin in response to PG or GLY drenching in prolific ewes. To this end, 36 multiparous late-pregnant Afec-Assaf ewes (∼132.4 d pregnant) bearing 2 to 4 fetuses, divided into 2 blocks (18 ewes in each block), with a blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration of 0.5 to 1.6 mmol/L were included. Ewes were divided into 3 groups (12 ewes each; 6 ewes in each experimental day), according to their BHB levels, expected litter size, body weight, and body condition score, and were drenched with the following: (1) control group (CTL), 55 mL of water; (2) PG, 106 mL of PG (100% PG, 448 calories); or (3) GLY, 108 mL of Koforin 80 (80% GL; 448 calories). Blood samples were taken before drenching and every hour after drenching for 24 h. Plasma concentration of glucose, BHB, nonesterified fatty acids, lactate, glycerol, and insulin were determined. Because there were no effects of treatments after 12 h in the first block, the data were analyzed for 12 h after drenching rather than 24 h. The plasma glucose concentration during the first 5 h after drenching was the highest in the GLY, BHB concentration was the lowest in the PG, and the nonesterified fatty acid levels were lower in the PG compared with the CTL ewes during the first 5 h after drenching. However, glucose concentration was higher in the PG ewes at 9, 11, and 12 h after drenching than in CTL or GLY ewes. The mean lactate concentration in plasma for 12 h was 2.5- and 1.9-fold higher in the PG compared with the CTL and GLY ewes, respectively, and except at 11 h after drenching, it was significantly higher at each time point. The insulin concentration was higher in the GLY than in both other groups at 2 to 5 h after drenching. These results suggest that during the first few hours after drenching the effect of PG was more effective in reducing the BHB concentration, whereas the GLY effect was more effective in enhancing glucose concentration. The increased concentration in lactate following PG treatment suggests that the PG contribution to gluconeogenesis is mediated through its metabolism to lactate. In contrast, the lack of an effect on lactate, and the faster increase in blood glucose in response to GLY suggest that GLY has a more advanced entry point to gluconeogenesis, which influences the immediate response in enhancing the glucose blood concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the acid‐base status of sick goats using the simplified strong ion difference (sSID) approach, to establish the quantitative contribution of sSID variables to changes in blood pH and HCO3− and to determine whether clinical, acid‐base, and biochemical variables on admission are associated with the mortality of sick goats. Animals One hundred forty‐three sick goats. Methods: Retrospective study. Calculated sSID variables included SID using 6 electrolytes unmeasured strong ions (USI) and the total nonvolatile buffer ion concentration in plasma (Atot). The relationship between measured blood pH and HCO3−, and the sSID variables was examined using forward stepwise linear regression. Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to assess associations between potential predictor variables and mortality of goats during hospitalization. Results: Hypocapnia, hypokalemia, hyperchloremia, hyperlactatemia, and hyperproteinemia were common abnormalities identified in sick goats. Respiratory alkalosis, strong ion acidosis, and Atot acidosis were acid‐base disorders frequently encountered in sick goats. In sick goats, the sSID variables explained 97% and 100% of the changes in blood pH and HCO3−, respectively. The results indicated that changes in the respiratory rate (<16 respirations per minute), USI, and pH at admission were associated with increased hazard of hospital mortality in sick goats. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The sSID approach is a useful methodology to quantify acid‐base disorders in goats and to determine the mechanisms of their development. Clinicians should consider calculation of USI in sick goats as part of the battery of information required to establish prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The end of pregnancy is the period with the highest risk of occurrences of ketosis and pregnancy toxemia due to fat mobilization and increasing non-esterified fatty acids in the liver which are converted in ketone bodies, mainly β-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHB). This ketone body may also become elevated in the bloodstream. The present study validates the use of a handheld meter for determining the blood concentration of BHB and ascertaining the predictive value and accuracy of BHB measurements in diagnosing hyperketonaemia in ewes. Methods A total of 19, non-pregnant, crossbred ewes were subjected to 2 h of intravenous infusion of a saturated BHB solution. Over 6 h of evaluation, 247 blood samples were obtained in 13 sampling moments. The BHB concentration was measured by an enzymatic colorimetric method in an automated biochemical analyzer (gold-standard) and by a handheld meter using an electrochemical enzyme technique. Results There was a high correlation between both methods (r = 0.98; P < 0.001). Considering the blood BHB concentrations range 0.8–1.6 mmol/L for moderate ketosis the handheld meter presented sensitivity and specificity of 0.98 and 0.81, respectively. For severe ketosis (BHB ≥ 1.6 mmol/L) sensitivity and specificity were 0.99 and 0.75, respectively. Thus, the handheld device can be useful for diagnoses of cases of mild or severe pregnancy toxemia at field conditions.

The objective of this study was to explore the metabolic profiles of pregnancy malnutrition induced by feed restriction (FR) and the counteracting effects of glycerol and rumen-protected choline chloride supplementation. Two feeding trials were conducted. In the first experiment, twenty pregnant Hu sheep carrying multiple fetuses with a gestation period of 108 d were randomly divided into two groups. The ewes in the control (CON) group were offered 100 % of their nutritional requirements as recommended by the National Research Council (NRC), while the FR group was offered 30 % of feed intake of CON for 15 d. In the second experiment, eighteen pregnant Hu sheep were offered a feed intake comprising 30 % of the NRC-recommended nutritional requirements twice daily. The sheep were randomly divided into three groups: the FR group in the second experiment (FR2), with no supplementation, the glycerol (GLY) group, which received 40 ml of glycerol per d, and the rumen-protected choline chloride (RPC) group, which received 10 g of rumen-protected choline chloride per d for 9 d. In the first experiment, the urine metabolome of sixteen ewes showed significant difference between the CON group and FR group. Compared with the CON group, FR decreased the level of d-glucose, lactic acid, levoglucosan, α-ketoglutarate, phosphohydroxypyruvic acid, glucose 6-phosphate and the methyl donors, while increasing the level of pyruvate, fumaric acid and carnitines in urine. Both the GLY and RPC treatments counteracted some of these changes and modulated the urine metabolome in advanced pregnant ewes suffering from malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The end of pregnancy is the period with the highest risk of occurrences of ketosis and pregnancy toxemia due to fat mobilization and increasing non-esterified fatty acids in the liver which are converted in ketone bodies, mainly β-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHB). This ketone body may also become elevated in the bloodstream. The present study validates the use of a handheld meter for determining the blood concentration of BHB and ascertaining the predictive value and accuracy of BHB measurements in diagnosing hyperketonaemia in ewes. Methods: A total of 19, non-pregnant, crossbred ewes were subjected to 2 h of intravenous infusion of a saturated BHB solution. Over 6 h of evaluation, 247 blood samples were obtained in 13 sampling moments. The BHB concentration was measured by an enzymatic colorimetric method in an automated biochemical analyzer (gold-standard) and by a handheld meter using an electrochemical enzyme technique. Results: There was a high correlation between both methods (r = 0.98; P < 0.001). Considering the blood BHB concentrations range 0.8–1.6 mmol/L for moderate ketosis the handheld meter presented sensitivity and specificity of 0.98 and 0.81, respectively. For severe ketosis (BHB ≥ 1.6 mmol/L) sensitivity and specificity were 0.99 and 0.75, respectively. Thus, the handheld device can be useful for diagnoses of cases of mild or severe pregnancy toxemia at field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate serum biochemical constituents and antioxidant enzymes activities in non-pregnant (open), pregnant and lactating ewes exposed to nutritional climatic stress conditions. Forty pure Harri ewes at 3-6 years of age and weighing 49.6 ± 1.22 kg were synchronized for estrus and bred to pregnancy. Ewes were kept indoors in a semi open shelter and were given concentrate mix as the only daily ration during pregnancy and lactation. Pregnant ewes had higher (P<0.05) total protein than lactating that had higher albumin and lower globulin concentrations than open and pregnant ewes. Pregnant ewes had lower glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol than open and lactating ewes. Pregnant ewes had higher Na and lower K than open and lactating ewes. During last 3 months of pregnancy antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde rose to maximum and declined after parturition. It can be concluded that pregnant ewes often endure dramatic alteration in their metabolism due to heightened fetal development demanding more nutritional intervention to avoid pregnancy toxemia and improve productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The elevation of β-OHB indices was also an observed condition, reflecting a severe negative energy balance, with lipomobilization, resulting in a disturbance in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, with consequent hepatic ketogenesis. • Higher serum concentrations of glucose, cortisol, and enzymatic activities of AST, GGT, and CK were observed in ewes with PT. • The concentration of cTnI in ewes of the PT group was about 20 times higher in the animals that were clinically discharged and more than 30 times higher in the animals that died in relation to the ewes without PT. • Elevations in the concentrations of cardiac biomarkers in sheep with Pregnancy Toxaemia, principally cTnI, may be used as another indicator related to the prognosis of the disease involving cardiac injury. The evaluation of biomarkers of myocardial injury, such as Troponin I (cTnI) and the myocardial band of creatine kinase (CK-MB) has not yet been studied in Brazil, in ewes affected by pregnancy toxemia (PT) in order to verify the clinical condition, study its blood dynamics, as well as its relationship with other markers routinely used to establish the diagnosis. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the metabolic disorder caused by PT in ewes on cardiac muscle function, evaluating the dynamics of cTnI and CK-MB. Fifty-three ewes with a diagnosis of PT were included, divided into two subgroups, a group of ewes who had PT that evolved to discharge and another group with PT that evolved to death. A third group is formed with 10 ewes with no signs of PT, as Control Group (CG). Higher serum concentrations of cTnI were observed in ewes who had PT and died (1.03 ng/mL) when compared to the group of ewes in the PT group who were clinically discharged (0.71 ng/mL), and these differed from the group of ewes without TP (0.03 ng/mL). The serum concentration of CK-MB in the PT group which died (196.91 U/L) was higher in relation to the control group (50.75 U/L). In the study of the relationship between pairs of variables, positive correlations were observed between serum concentrations of cTnI and CK-MB (r = 0.68, p<.0001), with AST activity (r = 0.57, p<.0001) and with CK (r = 0.49, p = 0.0010). Positive correlations were also observed between the CK-MB serum concentration with CK (r = 0.749, p<0.001), AST (r = 0.57, p = 0.0010), and serum cortisol concentration (r = 0.41, p = 0.002). Elevations in cardiac biomarker concentrations in ewes with PT were remarkable, which implies a consecutive cardiac injury is this disease. Therefore, they could be considered good indicators for diagnosis and prognosis in ewes affected by pregnancy toxaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy toxemia is a fatal metabolic disease resulting in high mortalities in late pregnant ewes. The silent nature of the disease and lack of diagnostic tools decrease the chance of prediction and curing. In this paper, we tried to find out the benefits of APPs, cytokines, and iron profile in diagnosis and prediction of the disease and their relation with other disease metabolic changes. Blood samples were collected from sixty barki ewes housed in Matrouh Research Station and were divided into 3 groups;control, healthy late pregnant, and pregnant toxemic group. Biochemical analysis such as BHB, NEFA, Fb, Cp, Hp, SAA, Tf, ferritin concentrations, cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α) were measured and all the data were analyzed statically. The results confirmed that APPs and cytokines are valuable markers for pregnancy toxemia as they have a sensitivity and NPV as 100% and high values of specificity, LR, PPV and accuracy rate. But APPs had higher percentages of increase than cytokines, especially Hp. Moreover, both of APPs and cytokines correlate well with the other metabolic changes of the disease. Regarding the iron status, there was a significant decrease in mean concentrations of serum iron, ferritin, Tf sat. % and a significant elevation in TIBC, UBIC and serum transferrin concentrations in the late pregnant ewes in comparison to the control healthy group. On the other hand, the pregnancy toxemic ewes demonstrated a significant rise in the mean concentrations of serum iron, ferritin, Tfsat. % and a significant drop in TIBC, UBIC and serum transferrin concentrations relative to the late pregnant group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia (PT) is believed to be associated with the disruption of lipid metabolism. The present study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms of lipid metabolism disorder in the livers of ewes with PT. In total, 10 pregnant ewes were fed normally (control group) whereas another 10 were subjected to 70% level feed restriction for 15 days to establish a pathological model of PT. Results showed that, as compared with the controls, the levels of blood β -hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and cholesterol were greater (P <0.05) and blood glucose level was lower (P <0.05) in PT ewes. The contents of NEFAs, BHBA, cholesterol and triglyceride were higher (P <0.05) and glycerol content was lower (P <0.05) in hepatic tissues of PT ewes than those of the controls. For ewes with PT, excessive fat vacuoles were observed in liver sections stained with hematoxylin–eosin; furthermore, inner structures of hepatocytes including nuclei, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum were damaged seriously according to the results of transmission electron microscope. Real-time PCR data showed that compared with the controls, the expression of hepatic genes involved in fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and triglyceride synthesis (TGS) was enhanced (P <0.05) whereas that related to acetyl-CoA metabolism (ACM) was repressed (P <0.05) in PT ewes. Generally, our results showed that negative energy balance altered the expression of genes involved in FAO, ACM and TGS, further caused lipid metabolism disorder in livers, resulting in PT of ewes. Our findings may provide the molecular basis for novel therapeutic strategies against this systemic metabolic disease in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aim: This study was planned to reveal the clinical signs and biochemical alterations in pregnancy toxemic goats. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 20 healthy pregnant and 45 pregnancy toxemic goats and analyzed biochemically. Results: The most significant clinical findings were observed in naturally affected goats with pregnancy toxemia included anorexia, recumbency, lethargy, opisthotonos, dropped head, periodic convulsion, sweetish fruity odor from breath, apparent blindness, bloat, grinding of teeth, and frothy salivation. In this study, the level of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) (84.23±1.44 IU/L), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) (216.01±4.07 IU/L), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (22.24±0.31 mg/dl), creatinine (2.13±0.09 mg/dl), β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) (0.46±0.83 mmol/L), and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) (1.67±0.71 mmol/L) was significantly higher whereas glucose (30.89±0.38 mg/dl) and calcium (8.10±0.20 mg/dl) levels were significantly decreased in pregnancy toxemic goats as compared to healthy goats. Conclusion: The goats with pregnancy toxemia exhibited clinical signs include anorexia, recumbency, sweetish fruity odor from breath, apparent blindness, bloat, grinding of teeth, and frothy salivation. Biochemically, there were significantly decreased the level of glucose and calcium, and increased level of SGPT, SGOT, BUN, creatinine, BHBA, and NEFA in the pregnancy toxemic goats.

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the trace mineral concentrations (Mg, Se, Zn, Cu and Fe) in amniotic fluid (AF) in 40 pregnancy toxemia Ghezel ewes at the time of parturition phase and its association with placental traits. Methods: Animals were treated with controlled internal drug release for 14 d and injected 400 IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin at the time of controlled internal drug release removal. After the detection of estrus by use of teaser rams, ewes were hand-mated. Ewes were classified as having subclinical pregnancy toxemia on the basis of beta-hydroxy butyrate (BHBA) results (BHBA > 0.86 mmol/L). Results: The overall mean AF traces of mineral concentrations were 3.13 ng/mL, 22.1 μg/dL, 134.7 μg/dL, 122.5 μg/dL and 166.6 μg/dL, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between placental efficiency and Zn concentration in AF ewes (r = 0.633, P 0.01), except for placental weight (r = 0.808, P

A pregnant Saanen doe aging 1.5-year and weighing 40 kg was presented to the Large Animal Unit of Universiti Putra Malaysia Veterinary Hospital with history of inability to stand up. Transabdominal ultrasonography of the animal revealed two live fetuses at late pregnancy. Blood examination revealed decreased lymphocyte numbers, and increased monocytes count. Biochemical analyses showed marked decrease in glucose level and elevated level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK). The goat was administered with 200 mL 20% Dextrose (G-20), NaCl solution (at 1.3 mL/animal), Flunixine meglumine (at 2.2 mg/kg bwt), and Vitavet multivitamin (at 1 mL/10 kg bwt). The prognosis of the case was grave, and the goat was sacrificed in order to save the fetuses. However, the fetuses were died within 10 min. Necropsy of the doe showed pale, yellow and friable liver and congested lungs, while histopathological evaluation of the liver showed diffuse hepatic lipidosis. Pregnancy toxemia in doe can be prevented by providing proper nutrition.

Pregnancy toxemia is a common metabolic disease of late pregnant ewes and does, which potentially has devastating impacts on health and performance. This metabolic syndrome is not only one of over conditioned animals but is more typically associated with inadequate energy intake to support pregnancy requirements leading to body protein and fat mobilization. Blood chemistries provide insight into diagnosis and possibly may predict responsiveness to treatment and outcome. Early recognition of the disease with appropriate intervention is the best approach to minimizing the impact of this disease in the sheep flock or goat herd., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This review covers the treatment options for pregnancy toxemia in small ruminants. Clinical assessment and detection of underlying metabolic and electrolyte derangements direct resuscitation efforts and provide prognostic indications. Treatment programs are dependent on producer goals and case specifics. Options include oral glucogenic precursors (eg, propylene glycol, glycerol), intravenous glucose solutions, insulin, and other supportive care measures. Induction of parturition or C-section is often carried out to minimize ongoing energy deficits, with variable survival rates. Prolonging gestation to maximize fetal viability often requires intensive care in a hospital setting and carries significant risk to both dam and offspring., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Contrary to its widespread use in human cases, the use of Doppler ultrasonography is only recently becoming prevalent in farm animals. This study aimed to determine the effects of maternal metabolic and clinical changes on fetal hemodynamics during pregnancy toxemia with the doppler examination of umbilical cord. In the study twenty ewes with a single healthy fetus were included in the study. At the end of the 120th day of pregnancy, 20 single-bearing pregnant ewes were randomly categorized into two groups. Ewes in the control group were fed to meet all nutritional requirements. On the other contrary, the experimental ewes were fed to meet equivalent to 50 % of the daily needs and then fasted for 96 h. Doppler ultrasonographic examinations of umbilical cord were performed once every two days and once a day during fasting. Beta hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) concentration was measured by taking blood from sheep on examination days. Pulse systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), PSV/EDV, pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and fetal heart rate (FHR) as well as BHBA values and how those parameters has changed over time (time by treatment effect) due to energy deprivation during pregnancy were evaluated using repeated measure analysis of variance. No clinical signs were observed in both toxemia and control groups during restricted feeding. BHBA concentration increased and there was a significant time, time by treatment and main effect of treatment effect between groups. No significant main effect of treatment and time by treatment interaction was observed in the changes of PI, RI, FHR, and systolic/diastolic velocity values over time in both groups. FHR was reduced over time, and there was a significant time effect in FHR in both groups. Although doppler indices didn't increase, both PSV and EDV values increased significantly in the pregnancy toxemia group compared with the controls (Time P = 0.03, time by treatment interaction P < 0.05) and the main effect of treatment P < 0.05). The marked increase in blood velocities (PSV and EDV) in the umbilical cord is probably due to the compensatory functioning for excessive energy deprivation of the fetus. Therefore, PSV and EDV might be a valuable indicator for evaluating the fetus's health status during the management of the PT., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A new protocol with aglepristone to induce parturition in ewes with pregnancy toxemia has been reported in the present manuscript. Four experimental groups were defined: Group AG5 (n = 10), Group DEX (n = 10), Group NC (n = 5) and Group PT (n = 5) in which ewes were injected twice with 10 mg/kg of aglepristone and 5 ml dexamethasone in first two groups, respectively; whereas negative control and pregnancy toxemia groups received no treatment for parturition induction. Different clinical parameters associated with parturition in ewes and their newborns were investigated. Blood hematology and biochemical measurements were carried out both in ewes and lambs. Blood pH values of lambs were recorded during the study. The injection time-lambing time, injection time-vaginal discharge intervals, placental expulsion periods, placental weight and vaginal delivery interval between lambs, hematological and biochemical results were not statistically different among the groups (p > 0,05). Increased NEFA and β-HBA concentrations accompanied the disease and all ewes in AG, DEX and PT Groups developed clinical pregnancy toxemia (NEFA; P = 0,009) and β-HBA; (P = 0,039). The differences in rectal body temperature of lambs were not significant (p > 0,05), whereas birth weight was found statistically significant among groups (p < 0,05). Blood pH, biochemical and hematologic measurements of lambs had also significant differences depending on different time points. Parturition pathology by means of incomplete cervical dilatation was severely observed in DEX Group. The results of this study show that aglepristone application in pregnancy toxemia to induce parturition could precisely control lambing time without any side effects in either mothers or lambs. Apart from these, it could be speculated that dexamethasone seems to induce parturition causing crucial pathologies, which results in important and risky changes in newborns’ life. Incomplete cervical dilatation and continued ineffective uterine contractions could be a major factor of newborn losses because of placental separation and cessation of blood supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative energy balance (NEB) is a state of insufficient dietary-energy consumption, characterized by the breakdown of adipose fat to meet the physiological energy expenditure. Extensive NEB, as common in high-yielding transitioning ruminants, drives significant metabolic disturbance and pathologies such as pregnancy toxemia and ketosis. Strategies to minimize the severity of NEB include the use of energy-dense feed supplements, like glycerol and propylene glycol (PG), or IV glucose infusion during severe hypoglycemia. PG and glycerol have been studied mainly by oral or ruminal administration, which exposes them to substantial metabolism in the digestive system. To investigate their direct benefits to mitigating NEB, we intravenously infused them into sheep induced into NEB by feed restriction. Sixteen 5-month-old ewe lambs at NEB were IV-treated with 170 mL isotonic saline containing 15% glycerol or 15% PG. Both PG and glycerol effectively reduced hyperketonemia by 57% and 61%, and inhibited adipose lipolysis by 73.6% and 73.3%, respectively. Surprisingly, only glycerol was glucogenic (p < 0.0001) and insulinotropic (p < 0.0075), while PG was primarily utilized for production of lactate (p < 0.0001). Tissue-damage biomarkers indicated hemolytic activity for PG. This study revealed glycerol as a superior IV treatment for effective relief of NEB. Since it carries no risk of glucose overloading, glycerol IV infusion may also have clinical advantages over glucose for treatment of pregnancy toxemia and ketosis.