Prostaglandin F2α regulation and function during ovulation and luteinization in cows.

Although prostaglandins are important in the ovulation process, a precise role for prostaglandin F2α (PGF) has not been elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the regulation of PGF receptor mRNA (PTGFR) in granulosa cells and the local effect of PGF on ovulation and luteinization. In Experiment 1, using samples collected in vivo before (Day 2), during (Day 3) and after (Day 4) follicular deviation, expression of PTGFR in bovine granulosa cells was more abundant in the dominant follicle after deviation than in subordinates (P < 0.05). However, the expression of PTGFR was not regulated (P = 0.1) in preovulatory follicles at different time-points (0, 3, 6, 12 and 24 h) after ovulation induction with GnRH. In Experiment 2, to assess the role of systemic PGF treatment on luteinization and vascularization of preovulatory follicles, flunixin meglumine (FM), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, was used to inhibit endogenous prostaglandin synthesis. Cows with preovulatory follicles were induced to ovulate with GnRH (0 h) and allocated to three groups: Control, with no further treatment; FM, treated with 2.2 mg/kg FM im 17 h after GnRH treatment; and FM + PGF, treated with FM 17 h after GnRH, followed by 25 mg dinoprost tromethamine (PGF) 23 h after GnRH treatment. FM injection was able to reduce the concentration of PGF in the follicular fluid (FF) (P < 0.001). However, contrary to our hypothesis, color Doppler ultrasound evaluations revealed decreased vascular flow in FM + PGF group (P < 0.05), and no effect of the treatments on intrafollicular P4 and E2 concentrations 24 h after GnRH. The prostaglandin metabolite (PGFM) concentrations in the FF were greater in cows receiving systemic PGF (P < 0.001), which prompted us to further check its role on ovulation. Therefore, in Experiment 3, in a final attempt to demonstrate the local effect of PGF on ovulation, cows with preovulatory follicles received an intrafollicular injection (IFI) of PBS (Control) or 100 ng/mL purified PGF (PGF group). PGF treatment did not affect the time of ovulation after IFI (66 ± 6.4 and 63 ± 8.5 h for control and PGF, respectively; P > 0.05), further suggesting that it has no direct effect in the ovulatory process. Based on our findings, we concluded that FM decreased PGF synthesis within the follicle, whereas PGF treatment decreased follicular vascularization. In addition, the in vivo model of intrafollicular injection evidenced that PGF alone is not able to locally induce ovulation.

Intrafollicular lipopolysaccharide injection delays ovulation in cows.

The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of intra-follicular (i.f.) treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on follicular and luteal development in cows. There were 18 non-lactating cows assigned to two groups to address this aim: control group (n = 9), which received an i.f. injection of saline; and LPS group (n = 9), which received an i.f. injection of 1 µg of LPS per mL of follicular fluid. Cows were treated with an intravaginal P4 releasing device (IVD) and estradiol benzoate on D0. On D4 and D5 cows were treated with cloprostenol sodium and on D7 the IVD was removed. At 12 h after IVD removal, cows were administered the i.f. injection of LPS or saline. After administration of these treatments, follicular development was evaluated every 12 h until ovulation. The LPS treatment increased blood flow in pre-ovulatory follicles (P = 0.05). Follicle growth was reduced by LPS injection (P < 0.02) resulting a longer period to the time of ovulation for cows in the LPS than control group (P = 0.03). The percentage of cows having ovulations was less for the LPS than control group (P = 0.03). The diameter of the CL, CL blood flow and P4 concentrations 5 and 12 days after ovulation did not differ between groups (P> 0.05). In conclusion, intra-follicular treatment with LPS resulted in a decreased rate of follicle growth, delayed timing of ovulations and a lesser number of cows having ovulations.

Effect of butafosfan supplementation during oocyte maturation on bovine embryo development.

Around 60-80% of oocytes maturated in vivo reached competence, while the proportion of maturation in vitro is rarely higher than 40%. In this sense, butafosfan has been used in vivo to improve metabolic condition of postpartum cows, and can represent an alternative to increase reproductive efficiency in cows. The aim of this study was to evaluate the addition of increasing doses of butafosfan during oocyte maturation in vitro on the initial embryo development in cattle. In total, 1400 cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were distributed in four groups and maturated according to supplementation with increasing concentrations of butafosfan (0 mg/ml, 0.05 mg/ml, 0.1 mg/ml and 0.2 mg/ml). Then, 20 oocytes per group were collected to evaluate nuclear maturation and gene expression on cumulus cells and oocytes and the remaining oocytes were inseminated and cultured until day 7, when blastocysts were collected for gene expression analysis. A dose-dependent effect of butafosfan was observed, with decrease of cleavage rate and embryo development with higher doses. No difference between groups was observed in maturation rate and expression of genes related to oocyte quality. Our results suggest that butafosfan is prejudicial for oocytes, compromising cleavage and embryo development.

Effect of yeast products supplementation during transition period on metabolic profile and milk production in dairy cows.

The aim of the current study was to assess the effect that supplementation with yeast culture plus enzymatically hydrolyzed yeast (YC-EHY) during the transition period and lactation had on the performance, somatic cell count (SCC), and metabolic profile of dairy cows. Thirty multiparous Holstein dairy cows were divided into two groups. The treatments were 0 supplementation (control) and supplementation with 28 g/cow/day of YC-EHY. The supplementation began 35 ± 5 days before the expected calving date. The cows were kept in their respective treatments for 50 days after the calving date. Body condition score (BCS), body weight, milk composition, SCC, and milk yield were assessed on a 2-weekly basis. Plasma samples were collected on days - 21st, - 7th, 0, 3rd, 7th, and weekly thereafter until 42 days postpartum and analyzed for albumin, ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), urea, and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). There was an effect of treatment on milk yield in the supplemented animals in comparison to the control group (27.88 ± 0.98 vs 24.58 ± 0.99 kg/days, P = 0.03). There was no effect of treatment (P > 0.05) on variables like 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM) and energy-corrected milk (ECM), milk component (%), milk composition yield (kg/day), and SCC. There was an interaction between group × days on ECM (P = 0.04) and protein (P = 0.008). The supplementation had no effect on the analyzed metabolites and on body weight and BCS. The supplementation with YC-EHY during the transition period and lactation improved milk yield without altering the metabolic profile.

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Metabolic and Ruminal Fluid Markers of Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Combination of Yeast Culture and Hydrolyzed Yeast

Background: In order to reduce the effects of a negative energy balance, some measures have been taken into account in nutritional management during the transition period. The use of yeast, has been a good alternative used to improve the rumen metabolism and helping the adjustment of the microbiotato the new diet. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast on the metabolism of dairy cows during the transition period.Materials, Methods & Results: The experiment was conducted in a semi-extensive system, using 20 Holstein cows, divided equally into a control group (CG) and a supplemented group (SG). The SG received 28 g/animal/day of a combination of yeast culture and hydrolyzed yeast from 20 ± 2 days pre-calving until early lactation (18 ± 3 days). Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), albumin and urea were determined at calving, and for three time points during the early postpartum period and three time points during the early lactation period. Regarding energy metabolism, prepartum concentrations of NEFA were higher than the physiological standard in both groups. However, NEFA, albumin and urea decreased during the early postpartum period in the supplemented animals and could be attributed to the yeast in enhancing ruminal microorganisms cellulolytic capacity, increasing fibre d

Hipomagnesemia subclínica em vacas leiteiras durante o período de transição: ocorrências hormonais e metabólicas

O objetivo, com este estudo, foi investigar as conseqüências da hipomagnesemia subclínica sobre parâmetros metabólicos de vacas leiteiras. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 12 animais, a cada dois dias, entre os dias 22 pré e 22 pós-parto, para a realização de análises sanguíneas e determinação do perfil metabólico. Os animais foram categorizados de acordo com os níveis séricos de magnésio: Grupo Hipomagnesêmicas (n=5), com níveis abaixo de 1,8 mg/dL em ao menos dois dias consecutivos, e o Grupo Controle (n=7), com níveis acima de 1,8 mg/dL em todo o período. O grupo hipomagnesêmicas apresentou níveis de glucagon maiores nos dias 10, 18 e 20, e a taxa Glucagon/Insulina foi maior nos dias 6, 8, 10, 12 e 16 após o parto. As concentrações de aspartato amino transferase foram maiores no grupo hipomagnesêmicas nos dias 0, 6, 8, 10, 12 e 14 pós-parto. Os resultados indicaram que níveis reduzidos de magnésio no periparto podem estar relacionados com níveis elevados de aspartato amino transferase e de glucagon. Em geral, a hipomagnesemia subclínica não altera os níveis dos indicadores do metabolismo energético, mas os resultados demonstraram que as vacas com hipomagnesemia apresentaram maior taxa de glucagon/insulina, demonstrando um maior desafio para manter os níveis glicêmicos.

Hipomagnesemia subclínica em vacas leiteiras durante o período de transição: ocorrências hormonais e metabólicas

O objetivo, com este estudo, foi investigar as conseqüências da hipomagnesemia subclínica sobre parâmetros metabólicos de vacas leiteiras. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 12 animais, a cada dois dias, entre os dias 22 pré e 22 pós-parto, para a realização de análises sanguíneas e determinação do perfil metabólico. Os animais foram categorizados de acordo com os níveis séricos de magnésio: Grupo Hipomagnesêmicas (n=5), com níveis abaixo de 1,8 mg/dL em ao menos dois dias consecutivos, e o Grupo Controle (n=7), com níveis acima de 1,8 mg/dL em todo o período. O grupo hipomagnesêmicas apresentou níveis de glucagon maiores nos dias 10, 18 e 20, e a taxa Glucagon/Insulina foi maior nos dias 6, 8, 10, 12 e 16 após o parto. As concentrações de aspartato amino transferase foram maiores no grupo hipomagnesêmicas nos dias 0, 6, 8, 10, 12 e 14 pós-parto. Os resultados indicaram que níveis reduzidos de magnésio no periparto podem estar relacionados com níveis elevados de aspartato amino transferase e de glucagon. Em geral, a hipomagnesemia subclínica não altera os níveis dos indicadores do metabolismo energético, mas os resultados demonstraram que as vacas com hipomagnesemia apresentaram maior taxa de glucagon/insulina, demonstrando um maior desafio para manter os níveis glicêmicos.

Effect of prepartum feed restriction and bovine recombinant somatotropin injection on plasmatic parameters of prepartum Holstein heifers / Efeitos da restrição alimentar e administração de somatotropina recombinante bovina nos parâmetros plasmáticos de novilhas da raça Holandês durante o período pré-parto

Background: During the transition period negative energy balance (NEB) occurs due to the difference between input and output of nutrients. At this period, these nutrients are directed to milk production and lipolysis is the major mechanism of adaptation. There is an increase of the non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) reduce dry matter intake (DMI). The feed restriction during the prepartum period improve milk production and plasmatic concentration of glucose and insulin through the adaptation of liver enzymes and increased DMI at the postpartum period. The administration of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) also improve milk production on postpartum period and alters lipogenesis and lipolysis through effects on adipose tissue and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feed restriction and injections of rbST onparameters of energetic, protein, enzymatic and mineral metabolism of prepartum dairy heifers. Materials, Methods & Results: Fourty four heifers with BW = 477.2 ± 7.4 kg at the beginning were used. The experimental period ranged from 35 days prepartum to calving. These heifers were divided in four groups with 11 heifers each: bST: fed to allow 100% of the DMI plus rbST injections; RbST: fed to allow 80% of the DMI plus rbST injections; CON: fed to allow 100% of the DMI plus placebo injections and RES: fed to allow 80% of the DMI plus

O periparto impõe grandes mudanças fisiológicas em vacas leiteiras, determinando um aumento na ocorrência de distúrbios metabólicos. Neste período, os nutrientes são direcionados para a produção de leite e como mecanismo de adaptação há um aumento na mobilização de tecido adiposo devido ao balanço energético negativo (BEN). Estudos mostram que a restrição de 20% da ingestão de matéria seca (IMS) e o uso de somatotropina bovina recombinante (rbST) no período pré-parto podem minimizar os efeitos indesejados do BEN pelo aumento da IMS pós-parto. [...]

Milk composition, ruminal pH and metabolic parameters of dairy cows supplemented with slow-release urea / Composição do leite, pH do fluído ruminal e perfil metabólico de vacas leiteiras suplementadas com uréia de liberação lenta

Background: The protein supplements can represent up to 50% of the costs in the concentrated fraction of the diet in dairy cows. A possible alternative that meets the requirements regarding protein levels and can reduce the costs are the nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) supplementst. For these reasons, this strategy it is widely used in low milk production systems, where cost of production has a higher impact. In this scenario the use of NPN aims to increase production without altering the economic balance of the system. Recently, a supplement consisting of urea coated with a biodegradable polymer was developed. This system promotes the controlled release of urea that can reach up 36 h after ingestion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feeding slow release urea formula on the composition and milk production, metabolic parameters and pH of the ruminal fluid of dairy cows. Materials, Methods & Results: This study was conducted over a period of 60 days, using 20 multiparous cows with 90 ± 18 days in milk. The animals were divided into two groups according to the type of NPN: 1) conventional urea (CG) and 2) slow release urea (SRG). Each group was composed of six Holstein cows (average body weight 528.7 ± 51.9 kg) and four Jersey cows (average body weight 389.3 ± 33.3 kg). Cows in the CG received a diet containing 80g of conventional urea/cow/day, and SRG cows were

Na pecuária leiteira a relação custo-benefício na alimentação animal é decisiva para o êxito econômico da atividade, o que leva o produtor a utilizar alternativas que diminuam os custos em relação à suplementação protéica, através do uso de fontes de nitrogênio não protéico (NNP), como a uréia. Em sistemas de baixa produção leiteira, a utilização de NNP visa aumentar a produção sem alterar o equilíbrio econômico do sistema. [...]

Milk composition, ruminal pH and metabolic parameters of dairy cows supplemented with slow-release urea / Composição do leite, pH do fluído ruminal e perfil metabólico de vacas leiteiras suplementadas com uréia de liberação lenta

Background: The protein supplements can represent up to 50% of the costs in the concentrated fraction of the diet in dairy cows. A possible alternative that meets the requirements regarding protein levels and can reduce the costs are the nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) supplementst. For these reasons, this strategy it is widely used in low milk production systems, where cost of production has a higher impact. In this scenario the use of NPN aims to increase production without altering the economic balance of the system. Recently, a supplement consisting of urea coated with a biodegradable polymer was developed. This system promotes the controlled release of urea that can reach up 36 h after ingestion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feeding slow release urea formula on the composition and milk production, metabolic parameters and pH of the ruminal fluid of dairy cows. Materials, Methods & Results: This study was conducted over a period of 60 days, using 20 multiparous cows with 90 ± 18 days in milk. The animals were divided into two groups according to the type of NPN: 1) conventional urea (CG) and 2) slow release urea (SRG). Each group was composed of six Holstein cows (average body weight 528.7 ± 51.9 kg) and four Jersey cows (average body weight 389.3 ± 33.3 kg). Cows in the CG received a diet containing 80g of conventional urea/cow/day, and SRG cows were

Na pecuária leiteira a relação custo-benefício na alimentação animal é decisiva para o êxito econômico da atividade, o que leva o produtor a utilizar alternativas que diminuam os custos em relação à suplementação protéica, através do uso de fontes de nitrogênio não protéico (NNP), como a uréia. Em sistemas de baixa produção leiteira, a utilização de NNP visa aumentar a produção sem alterar o equilíbrio econômico do sistema. [...]

Effect of prepartum feed restriction and bovine recombinant somatotropin injection on plasmatic parameters of prepartum Holstein heifers / Efeitos da restrição alimentar e administração de somatotropina recombinante bovina nos parâmetros plasmáticos de novilhas da raça Holandês durante o período pré-parto

Background: During the transition period negative energy balance (NEB) occurs due to the difference between input and output of nutrients. At this period, these nutrients are directed to milk production and lipolysis is the major mechanism of adaptation. There is an increase of the non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) reduce dry matter intake (DMI). The feed restriction during the prepartum period improve milk production and plasmatic concentration of glucose and insulin through the adaptation of liver enzymes and increased DMI at the postpartum period. The administration of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) also improve milk production on postpartum period and alters lipogenesis and lipolysis through effects on adipose tissue and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of feed restriction and injections of rbST onparameters of energetic, protein, enzymatic and mineral metabolism of prepartum dairy heifers. Materials, Methods & Results: Fourty four heifers with BW = 477.2 ± 7.4 kg at the beginning were used. The experimental period ranged from 35 days prepartum to calving. These heifers were divided in four groups with 11 heifers each: bST: fed to allow 100% of the DMI plus rbST injections; RbST: fed to allow 80% of the DMI plus rbST injections; CON: fed to allow 100% of the DMI plus placebo injections and RES: fed to allow 80% of the DMI plus

O periparto impõe grandes mudanças fisiológicas em vacas leiteiras, determinando um aumento na ocorrência de distúrbios metabólicos. Neste período, os nutrientes são direcionados para a produção de leite e como mecanismo de adaptação há um aumento na mobilização de tecido adiposo devido ao balanço energético negativo (BEN). Estudos mostram que a restrição de 20% da ingestão de matéria seca (IMS) e o uso de somatotropina bovina recombinante (rbST) no período pré-parto podem minimizar os efeitos indesejados do BEN pelo aumento da IMS pós-parto. [...]

Alterations in population of ruminal protozoa, quantified from the adaptation technique dehority, of sheep submitted to confinement diet / Alterações na população de protozoários ruminais, quantificados a partir da adaptação da técnica de Dehority, de ovinos submetidos a uma dieta de confinamento

Background: The search for productivity increase in finish ruminants is related with the intensification of production. The use of concentrated feed in finish lambs can determine a profitable product and quality, wich reachs ideal weight in a short time. However, the addition of concentrated feed can cause a shift in the whole rumen ecosystem, and as a result, having animals more susceptible to metabolic disorders. As protozoa have their growth stimulated or inhibited by dietary factors, it becomes important to quantify and evaluate its activity in response to diets for ruminants. Thus, using measurements of the number of protozoa in the rumen fluid, we are able to make early diagnosis of possible metabolic disorders, as well as adjustments in ration formulations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentration and activity of protozoa in rumen of sheep in a feedlot diet, and validate an adaptation of the technique Dehority for counting of protozoa in the rumen fluid. Materials, Methods & Results: It were utilized 5 crossbred Texel x Corriedale ewes not pregnant, not lactating, with approximately 18 months old and with average weight of 50.73 ± 4.38 kg. The females were kept confined, receiving water and ration ad libitum in individual feeders. Ewes were fed twice (8:30 and 16:30) daily with a diet aiming to provide the DM intake equivalent to 3.5% of body wei

Background: The search for productivity increase in finish ruminants is related with the intensification of production. The use of concentrated feed in finish lambs can determine a profitable product and quality, wich reachs ideal weight in a short time. However, the addition of concentrated feed can cause a shift in the whole rumen ecosystem, and as a result, having animals more susceptible to metabolic disorders. As protozoa have their growth stimulated or inhibited by dietary factors, it becomes important to quantify and evaluate its activity in response to diets for ruminants. Thus, using measurements of the number of protozoa in the rumen fluid, we are able to make early diagnosis of possible metabolic disorders, as well as adjustments in ration formulations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentration and activity of protozoa in rumen of sheep in a feedlot diet, and validate an adaptation of the technique Dehority for counting of protozoa in the rumen fluid. Materials, Methods & Results: It were utilized 5 crossbred Texel x Corriedale ewes not pregnant, not lactating, with approximately 18 months old and with average weight of 50.73 ± 4.38 kg. The females were kept confined, receiving water and ration ad libitum in individual feeders. Ewes were fed twice (8:30 and 16:30) daily with a diet aiming to provide the DM intake equivalent to 3.5% of body wei

Alterations in population of ruminal protozoa, quantified from the adaptation technique dehority, of sheep submitted to confinement diet / Alterações na população de protozoários ruminais, quantificados a partir da adaptação da técnica de Dehority, de ovinos submetidos a uma dieta de confinamento

Background: The search for productivity increase in finish ruminants is related with the intensification of production. The use of concentrated feed in finish lambs can determine a profitable product and quality, wich reachs ideal weight in a short time. However, the addition of concentrated feed can cause a shift in the whole rumen ecosystem, and as a result, having animals more susceptible to metabolic disorders. As protozoa have their growth stimulated or inhibited by dietary factors, it becomes important to quantify and evaluate its activity in response to diets for ruminants. Thus, using measurements of the number of protozoa in the rumen fluid, we are able to make early diagnosis of possible metabolic disorders, as well as adjustments in ration formulations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentration and activity of protozoa in rumen of sheep in a feedlot diet, and validate an adaptation of the technique Dehority for counting of protozoa in the rumen fluid. Materials, Methods & Results: It were utilized 5 crossbred Texel x Corriedale ewes not pregnant, not lactating, with approximately 18 months old and with average weight of 50.73 ± 4.38 kg. The females were kept confined, receiving water and ration ad libitum in individual feeders. Ewes were fed twice (8:30 and 16:30) daily with a diet aiming to provide the DM intake equivalent to 3.5% of body wei

Background: The search for productivity increase in finish ruminants is related with the intensification of production. The use of concentrated feed in finish lambs can determine a profitable product and quality, wich reachs ideal weight in a short time. However, the addition of concentrated feed can cause a shift in the whole rumen ecosystem, and as a result, having animals more susceptible to metabolic disorders. As protozoa have their growth stimulated or inhibited by dietary factors, it becomes important to quantify and evaluate its activity in response to diets for ruminants. Thus, using measurements of the number of protozoa in the rumen fluid, we are able to make early diagnosis of possible metabolic disorders, as well as adjustments in ration formulations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentration and activity of protozoa in rumen of sheep in a feedlot diet, and validate an adaptation of the technique Dehority for counting of protozoa in the rumen fluid. Materials, Methods & Results: It were utilized 5 crossbred Texel x Corriedale ewes not pregnant, not lactating, with approximately 18 months old and with average weight of 50.73 ± 4.38 kg. The females were kept confined, receiving water and ration ad libitum in individual feeders. Ewes were fed twice (8:30 and 16:30) daily with a diet aiming to provide the DM intake equivalent to 3.5% of body wei

Effect of supplementation with mannanoligosaccharide on clinical parameters and body weight gain of calves / Efeito da suplementação com mananoligossacarídeo sobre parâmetros clínicos e ganho de peso vivo de bezerras

Worlwide there is a trend toward limiting the use of antibiotic in animal production, and more researches are focused on the search for alternatives, such as the use of probiotics and prebiotics in feed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mannanoligosaccharide (MOS) on the metabolic profile, immune activity, incidence of diarrhea and weight gain in Holstein-Friesian calves. Thirty two females calves were divided into two groups; mannanoligosaccharide Group (MOSG, n=16) and Control Group (Control G, n=16). MOS was administered into the milk (5g/animal), once a day, from 15 ± 7 to 43 ± 7 days of age, totaling 28 days of supplementation. Blood were collected to determine the metabolic profile, hemogram and concentration of antibodies against Salmonella typhimurium. Body weight and occurrence of diarrhea was evaluated every 7 days. No effects of MOS were detected on the evaluated variables. In conclusion, the results showed that the mannanoligosaccharide did not alter the clinical and zootechnical parameters in Holstein-Friesian calves.

Mundialmente há uma tendência de restrição aos antibióticos na produção animal, e cada vez mais as pesquisas se concentram na busca por alternativas, como é o caso do uso de probióticos e prebióticos na alimentação animal. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do prebiótico mananoligossacarídeo (MOS) sobre o perfil metabólico, resposta imune, incidência de diarreia e ganho de peso de bezerras da raça Holandesa. Foram utilizadas 32 bezerras, divididas em dois grupos: Grupo mananoligossacarídeo (GMOS, n=16) e Grupo Controle (GC, n=16). O MOS foi administrado no leite em quantidade de 5g/ animal, uma vez ao dia, de 15 ± 7 até 43 ± 7 dias de idade, totalizando 28 dias de suplementação. Coletas de sangue para determinação do perfil metabólico, hemograma e níveis de anticorpos contra Salmonella typhimurium, pesagens corporais e avaliação da ocorrência de diarreia foram realizadas a cada 7 dias. Não houve efeito da suplementação com MOS sobre as variáveis analisadas. A partir destes resultados, concluímos que a suplementação com MOS não influenciou parâmetros clínicos e zootécnicos de bezerras da raça Holandesa.

Níveis séricos de enzimas hepáticas em poedeiras comerciais no pré-pico e pico de produção de ovos

Background:  :  : The biochemistry evaluation of liver enzymes gives evidences about metabolic disorders caused by diseases or nutritional deficiency that influence the hepatic activity. The biochemical profile is usually used as a support for diagnosis of hepatic diseases in pets, however the same evaluation its not used in cattle. At the same time, there is a few results and benchmarks for commercial poultry biochemical profile, without a consensus between layer activity, breeder lines, period, age, region, nutrition, and other factors that can interfere in data assurance. AST enzyme is considered a responsive marker in liver disorder in chicken, even if is a nonspecific parameter. GGT can indicate cholestasis and biliary ducts proliferation in chicken liver. The aim is compare the levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) e gammaglutamyl transferase (GGT), before and during the pick of egg production. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-five Hisex Brown laying hens with 16 weeks of age were used for the research. The birds were distributed in a total of seven birds per cage. The hens received the same feed during the experimental period, varying the nutrition levels according layer stage. The experimental design was in random blocks and the animals were in same environment conditions. The light program used was 16 h of artificial lighting per day, with a dark break of