1
|
Nogalski Z, Piwczyński D, Nogalska A. Clinical applicability of external and internal body dimensions in predicting dystocia in late-gestation Holstein-Friesian heifers. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14506. [PMID: 37955268 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the clinical applicability of maternal intrapelvic area (PA) and selected morphometric parameters that can be measured before parturition in predicting dystocia in dairy heifers. The measurements were performed in 374 late-gestation Holstein-Friesian heifers. Inner pelvic height and width were measured using a pelvimeter, and PA was calculated. The heifers were monitored continuously around the time of calving, and calving difficulty was categorized as: unassisted calving (UC), slight assistance (SA), considerable difficulty (CD) and veterinary assistance (VA). Calving performance was analysed with the χ2 test, and the effect of body dimensions on the course of parturition was evaluated by one-way analysis of variance. Dystocia (CD + VA) was predicted with the use of the classification tree method. Dystocia accounted for 29.14% of all deliveries. The percentages of stillbirths and retained placenta increased (p < .01) with increasing calving difficulty. Average PA immediately before parturition was smaller (p < .01) in group VA (223.2 cm2 ) than in group UC (253.3 cm2 ). According to the classification tree, dystocia may occur (74.07% odds) in heifers with PA < 254.2 cm2 and a rump angle <5.68° before parturition. Measurements of heifer's cannon circumference and sire's body size improve the accuracy of dystocia prediction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zenon Nogalski
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Feed Sciences and Cattle Breeding, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Dariusz Piwczyński
- Department of Animal Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Anna Nogalska
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Environmental Protection, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tsaousioti A, Praxitelous A, Kok A, Kiossis E, Boscos C, Tsousis G. Association between dam and calf measurements with overall and fetopelvic dystocia in Holstein heifers. J DAIRY RES 2023; 90:261-268. [PMID: 37587723 DOI: 10.1017/s0022029923000468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the relationship between dam's pelvic and calf's dimensions with dystocia due to fetopelvic disproportion in the Holstein breed and estimated risk factors and dystocia probability. For this purpose, external pelvic measurements were performed in 402 heifers 15 ± 11 (1-38) days ante-partum and specific conformation measurements were obtained from their calves 1.7 ± 1.2 post-partum. Dystocia was defined as the inability of the heifer to complete parturition spontaneously within 120 min after the appearance of the amnion with normal presentation, position and posture or as having definite obstetrical obstacles within 60 min. Overall and fetopelvic disproportion dystocia incidence was 10.4% and 5.2%, respectively. Heifer measurements mainly influenced overall dystocia, whereas calf conformation was related solely with fetopelvic dystocia. Specifically, heifers with a small pelvis (hip width <49.95 cm, pelvic inlet area <333.2 cm2, pelvic volume <7799.2 cm3) had 2.8 to 3.5 times greater incidence of overall dystocia (19.0-20.8%) compared to heifers with a larger pelvis (incidence of 7.0-7.6%). Regarding calf factors, sex (male calves), body weight, chest circumference and fetlock joint circumference significantly increased the odds of experiencing dystocia due to fetopelvic disproportion compared with female, lighter or smaller calves. In a backward elimination model with independent variables treated as continuous, an area under the ROC curve of 0.66 regarding the prediction of overall dystocia based on heifer pelvic length, and of 0.64 for the prediction of fetopelvic dystocia based on fetlock joint circumference was found. The combination of the two variables in one model improved the ROC area to 0.71 regarding dystocia due to fetopelvic disproportion, reaching acceptable level of discrimination. Our findings indicate that dystocia due to fetopelvic disproportion in heifers is mainly influenced by the fetal side. Additionally, the estimation of pelvic dimensions of the dam before parturition and specific conformation characteristics of the calf during parturition, especially fetlock joint circumference, could aid obstetricians and herdsmen regarding dystocia probability and parturition surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angeliki Tsaousioti
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasia Praxitelous
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Akke Kok
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Evangelos Kiossis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Constantinos Boscos
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Tsousis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zakian A, Rasooli A, Nouri M, Ghorbanpour M, Khosravi M, Constable PD, Moazeni M. Effect of heating bovine colostrum at 60°C for 90' on colostrum quality and, the health and growth characteristics of Holstein dairy calves. Aust Vet J 2023; 101:175-186. [PMID: 36811133 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The major objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of heat-treating colostrum on the subsequent growth characteristics (weight gain, body size, dry matter intake and feed efficiency rate) and health of Holstein calves. METHODS A total of 1200 neonatal Holstein calves on one commercial dairy farm were enrolled. The calves were divided into heat-treated (60°C for 90 min) and unheated (raw) colostrum groups. Calf serum IgG and total protein concentrations were measured before and after colostrum consumption. Health characteristics and disease prevalence were recorded during the suckling period. RESULTS Consumption of heat-treated colostrum led to increased serum IgG (P < 0.0001) and total protein (P < 0.0001) concentrations, increased apparent efficacy of IgG absorption (P < 0.0001) and increased general health condition, weight gain (P < 0.0001) and clinical performance. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Heat-treatment of colostrum is an effective method to improve health and increase growth characteristics (weight gain, body size, dry matter intake and feed efficiency rate) of neonatal dairy calves, most likely by decreasing microbial load and facilitating IgG absorption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Zakian
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - A Rasooli
- Department of Animal Health Management, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - M Nouri
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - M Ghorbanpour
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - M Khosravi
- F.K.A. Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Company, Isfahan, Iran
| | - P D Constable
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - M Moazeni
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Maeda T, Kitahara G, Osawa T. Establishment of a method to predict dystocia due to physical imbalance between foetus and maternal pelvis in Japanese Black cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:1029-1037. [PMID: 35662284 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the relationship between the maternal pelvis and calf size in normal and dystocia groups (Experiment 1) and to establish a method to predict dystocia due to physical imbalance between foetus and maternal pelvis before calving based on the parameters found in Experiment 1 (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, 26 pairs of dams and their offspring were tested immediately after calving, and various parameters of offspring size and maternal pelvis were measured in normal and dystocia cases. The longitudinal diameter of the maternal pelvis was smaller (P < 0.01), and ratios of the offspring's birth weight and the width of the hoof crown (hoof width; measured using callipers) to the longitudinal diameter of the maternal pelvis were larger (P < 0.01) in the dystocia group than those in the normal group. In Experiment 2, 37 cows were tested, and in addition to the measurement items of Experiment 1, the inner pelvic diameter and the foetal hoof width were measured via ultrasonography at 285 days of gestation. The ratio of the internal diameter of the maternal pelvis (longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, and area) to the foetal hoof width was compared and was greater (P < 0.01) in the dystocia group than in the normal group. In conclusion, the risk of dystocia can be estimated by the ratio of the foetal hoof width to the longitudinal diameter of the maternal pelvis before calving.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Maeda
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan.,Miyazaki Agricultural Mutual Aid Association, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Go Kitahara
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan.,Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Takeshi Osawa
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan.,Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Spaans OK, Kuhn-Sherlock B, Hickey A, Crookenden MA, Heiser A, Burke CR, Phyn CVC, Roche JR. Temporal profiles describing markers of inflammation and metabolism during the transition period of pasture-based, seasonal-calving dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:2669-2698. [PMID: 34998544 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The physiology of the dairy cow while transitioning from pregnancy to lactation is complex, with multifactorial processes studied extensively for the role they play in manifestation of disease along with associated economic losses and compromised animal welfare. Manuscripts outlining associations among nutrition, production, physiology, and genetics variables and transition cow disorders are common in literature, with blood analytes that are central to energy metabolism (e.g., nonesterified fatty acids; NEFA, β-hydroxybutyrate; BHB) often reported. Immunity and inflammation have increasingly been explored in the pathogenesis and persistence of disorders, with cytokines and acute phase proteins well documented. However, most of these studies have involved cows fed total mixed rations, which may not always reflect profiles of blood analytes and other physiological indicators of transition cow health in grazing cows consuming fresh pasture. Considering the comparatively lesser characterization of these analytes and markers in pasture-based, seasonal-calving dairy cows, we compiled a database consisting of 2,610 cow lactations that span 20 yr of transition cow research in New Zealand. Using this database, analyte profiles from approximately 28 d precalving to 35 d postcalving were identified in dairy cows with a range of genetics, milk production potentials, and pasture-based farm management systems. These profiles characterize changes in energy reserves and metabolism (NEFA, BHB, glucose, insulin, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, leptin, body condition score, body weight), liver function (globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, glutamate dehydrogenase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, bilirubin, cholesterol, liver triacylglycerides), protein metabolism (albumin, total protein, albumin:globulin ratio, creatinine, urea, creatine kinase), mineral balance (calcium, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate), inflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, haptoglobin, reactive oxygen species, total antioxidant capacity), and uterine health (polymorphonuclear cells, macrophage cells, vaginal discharge score). Temporal changes are generally consistent with previously characterized homeorhetic changes experienced by the dairy cow during the transition from pregnancy to lactation in both pastoral and housed systems. Some of the profiles had not previously been presented for pastoral systems, or in some cases, presented for either system. Our results indicate that moderate-yielding dairy cows undergo similar homeorhetic changes to high-yielding housed cows; however, differences in diet composition result in greater BHB concentrations than expected, based on their milk production and NEFA concentrations. In addition, most cows were able to transition to a state of higher energy requirement following calving, albeit with an increased metabolic challenge in the liver, and only a small percentage of cows were classified with severe hepatic lipidosis or severe hyperketonemia. Increases in metabolic function of the liver were accompanied by changes in indicators of the immune system and changes in mineral balance that, combined, probably reflect the innate response to the transition from gestation to lactation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O K Spaans
- DairyNZ Limited, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand 3240.
| | - B Kuhn-Sherlock
- DairyNZ Limited, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand 3240
| | - A Hickey
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand 1142
| | - M A Crookenden
- AgResearch, Hopkirk Research Institute, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand 4442
| | - A Heiser
- AgResearch, Hopkirk Research Institute, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand 4442
| | - C R Burke
- DairyNZ Limited, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand 3240
| | - C V C Phyn
- DairyNZ Limited, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand 3240
| | - J R Roche
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand 1142
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tani M, Tani C, Tasaki H, Harumoto S, Yoshimatsu R, Ito S, Koutaka T, Hattori N, Moritomo Y, Osawa T. Correlation of foetal body weight by coronet width measurement using ultrasonography in prepartum cows: a pilot study. Aust Vet J 2021; 99:469-472. [PMID: 34389980 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the effectiveness of foetal body weight estimation by measuring foetal coronet width using transrectal ultrasonography in beef cows during near-term pregnancy. A characteristic 'gull wing' pattern was obtained from the foetal coronet cross-section from the dewclaw side using ultrasonography. This pattern was matched to the bone surface of the distal part of the middle phalanx. Then, the relationship between coronet width and body weight at birth of 22 Japanese Brown calves was analysed and a high correlation coefficient of 0.8965 (P < 0.001) was obtained. In conclusion, the coronet width of the fetus is depicted as a 'gull wing' hyperechoic structure and can be measured by ultrasonography per rectum during near-term pregnancy. This technique may be a useful tool to identify high-risk cows with dystocia before calving. High foetal coronet values may predispose cattle to dystocia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Tani
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - C Tani
- Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-1692, Japan
| | - H Tasaki
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - S Harumoto
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - R Yoshimatsu
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - S Ito
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - T Koutaka
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - N Hattori
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - Y Moritomo
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto, 862-8652, Japan
| | - T Osawa
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Stefani G, Brandão Aquaroli D, Batista Gonçalves Costa Júnior J, Santana Júnior ML, Tonhati H, Sesana RC, El Faro L. Genetic parameters for dystocia, milk yield and age at first calving in Brazilian Holstein cows. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2020.1856115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Stefani
- Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias – Unesp, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mário Luiz Santana Júnior
- Grupo de Melhoramento Animal de Mato Grosso, Instituto de Ciências Agrárias e Tecnológicas – UFMT, Rondonópolis, Brazil
| | - Humberto Tonhati
- Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias – Unesp, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | | | - Lenira El Faro
- Instituto de Zootecnia, Centro de Pesquisas de Bovinos de Corte, Sertãozinho, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vernooij J, de Munck F, van Nieuwenhuizen E, Webb E, Jonker H, Vos P, Holm D. Reliability of pelvimetry is affected by observer experience but not by breed and sex: A cross-sectional study in beef cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1592-1598. [PMID: 32885509 PMCID: PMC7756854 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pelvis size plays an important role to prevent dystocia in cattle caused by the foeto‐maternal disproportion in commonly primiparous females. The reproducibility and repeatability are two important aspects for the reliability of the measurements to use in the selection of cattle for culling. Pelvic measures were taken with a Rice pelvimeter from 224 young cattle (180 females and 44 males) of four beef breeds in South Africa. One experienced and two inexperienced observers each measured pelvic height and width twice. The proportion measurements with a maximum difference of 0.5 cm within animal compared with the first measurement by the experienced observer are around 80% and by the inexperienced observers around 50% for pelvic height and around 60% for pelvic width. Breed and sex do not affect the reliability of pelvimetry by an experienced observer. Under‐ and overestimation of pelvis size were observed in inexperienced observers, which seems to be unrelated to breed and sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Vernooij
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Florine de Munck
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien van Nieuwenhuizen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Edward Webb
- Department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Herman Jonker
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Vos
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Section Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dietmar Holm
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pearson JM, Thomsen C, Kusler A, Pajor EA, Gurdita A, Ungrin MD, Windeyer MC. Quantifying the Forces Applied During Manually and Mechanically Assisted Calvings in Beef Cattle. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:459. [PMID: 32851036 PMCID: PMC7419429 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dystocia is a leading cause of calf mortality, yet there is little available information quantifying the duration and forces applied to assisted deliveries. Objectives of this study were to: (1) develop a method to measure the magnitude and duration of various forces applied to a calf during calving assistance, and (2) quantify the forces applied to beef calves during manual or mechanical calving assistance. Twenty-five primiparous dams requiring calving assistance were enrolled. Calvings were assisted by manual (1 or 2 people pulling) or mechanical (calf extractor) delivery. A set of modified obstetric chains with integrated force measuring devices (Calving Assistance Force Logger; CAF-Log) were applied to the calf for delivery. The CAF-Log system was calibrated using known masses ranging from 25 to 200 kg in increasing increments of 25 kg. Duration of the assisted delivery and force parameters (peak force applied to one leg, peak force applied to both legs, cumulative force, and maximum jerk force) were described and assessed for their associations with method of delivery and ranch. Median duration was 112.6 s (IQR: 88.4–149.7) for manual and 312.6 s (IQR: 221.6–462.3) for mechanical deliveries. Mean peak force applied to one leg was 56.9 kg (SD: 22.9) for manual and 126.8 kg (SD: 48.2) for mechanical deliveries. Mean peak force applied to both legs was 95.4 kg (SD: 34.1) for manual and 188.6 kg (SD: 83.9) for mechanical deliveries. Median cumulative force was 178.3 kg min (IQR: 21.1–38.8) for manual and 380.6 kg min (IQR: 252.1–581.3) for mechanical deliveries. The maximum jerk force for manual deliveries was 36.6 kg/s (IQR: 21.1–38.8) and 77.2 kg/s (IQR: 60.9–97.1) for mechanical deliveries. An interaction occurred between ranch and method of delivery for peak force applied to one leg, peak force applied to both legs, and cumulative force. The CAF-Log system demonstrated that significantly greater forces were applied to mechanically delivered calves compared to manually delivered calves and could be used in future studies to investigate forces applied to a calf during calving assistance and their impacts on cow and calf well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Pearson
- Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Charmaine Thomsen
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Calgary Faculty of Science, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ann Kusler
- Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Edmund A Pajor
- Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Akshay Gurdita
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Mark David Ungrin
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - M Claire Windeyer
- Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hiew MWH, Megahed AA, Horstman LA, Constable PD. Clinical utility of plasma progesterone and blood and plasma glucose concentrations in predicting parturition in Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:5575-5590. [PMID: 32307156 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
An accurate, practical, and low-cost method for predicting parturition is urgently needed in the dairy industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in plasma progesterone concentration ([prog]) and glucose concentration in whole blood ([gluc]b) and plasma ([gluc]p) as predictors of parturition within 6, 12, and 24 h in primiparous and multiparous Holstein cows. Blood samples were obtained daily at approximately 0900 h from 34 primiparous and 72 multiparous Holstein cows in late gestation and the time of calving recorded to the nearest hour. Plasma [prog] was measured using an ELISA, and [gluc]b and [gluc]p using a low-cost point-of-care glucose meter. The optimal cut-point for predicting parturition was determined using binomial logistic regression with general estimating equations, because the data set consisted of repeated measures for each cow. Diagnostic test performance was evaluated by comparing the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calculating the sensitivity, specificity, and κ at the optimal cut-point for predicting parturition. Plasma [prog] was the most accurate predictor of parturition within 24 h (AUC = 0.96) and 12 h (AUC = 0.93), whereas [gluc]b was the most accurate predictor of parturition within 6 h (primiparous, AUC = 0.96; multiparous, AUC = 0.86). We conclude that a decrease in plasma [prog] is currently the most accurate test for predicting calving within 24 h. Measurement of [gluc]b is a promising new test for the cow-side prediction of parturition in dairy cows due to its accuracy, practicality, and low cost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M W H Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907; Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra, Selangor 43400, Malaysia
| | - A A Megahed
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907; Department of Animal Medicine, Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor-Toukh, Kalyobiya 13736, Egypt
| | - L A Horstman
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - P D Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907; Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 61802.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Constable PD, Megahed AA, Hiew MWH. Measurement of urine pH and net acid excretion and their association with urine calcium excretion in periparturient dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:11370-11383. [PMID: 31548071 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Urine pH (UpH) and net acid excretion (NAE) are used to monitor the degree of systemic acidification and predict the magnitude of resultant hypercalciuria when feeding an acidogenic ration to control periparturient hypocalcemia in dairy cattle. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the diagnostic performance of urine dipstick and pH paper for measuring UpH, and to characterize the UpH-NAE relationship and the association of urine Ca concentration ([Ca]) with UpH and NAE. Urine samples (n = 1,116) were collected daily from 106 periparturient Holstein-Friesian cows fed an acidogenic ration during late gestation. Net acid excretion was measured by titration, and UpH was measured by a glass-electrode pH meter (reference method), Multistix-SG urine dipsticks (Siemens Medical Solutions Inc., Ann Arbor, MI), and Hydrion pH paper (Micro Essential Laboratory Inc., Brooklyn, NY). Diagnostic performance was evaluated using Spearman correlation coefficient (rs), Bland-Altman plots, and logistic regression. Urine pH measured by urine dipstick (rs = 0.94) and pH paper (rs = 0.96) were strongly associated with UpH. Method-comparison studies indicated that the urine dipstick measured an average of 0.28 pH units higher, and pH paper 0.10 pH units lower, than UpH. Urine [Ca] was more strongly associated with UpH (rs = -0.65) than NAE (rs = 0.52). Goals for controlling periparturient hypocalcemia under the study conditions were UpH <6.22 and <6.11, based on achieving urine [Ca] ≥5 mmol/L and estimated urinary Ca excretion ≥4 g/d, respectively. Urine pH was as accurate at predicting urine [Ca] as NAE when UpH >6.11. We conclude that pH paper is an accurate, practical, and low-cost cow-side test for measuring UpH and provides a clinically useful estimate of urine [Ca].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P D Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 61802.
| | - A A Megahed
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 61802; Department of Animal Medicine, Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor-Toukh, Kalyobiya, 13736, Egypt
| | - M W H Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra, Selangor, 43400, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Megahed AA, Hiew MWH, Ragland D, Constable PD. Changes in skeletal muscle thickness and echogenicity and plasma creatinine concentration as indicators of protein and intramuscular fat mobilization in periparturient dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5550-5565. [PMID: 30954258 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
High-producing dairy cows experience a state of negative energy balance in the periparturient period that is partially addressed by increasing the rate of fat and protein mobilization. Previous studies have focused on the rate of fat mobilization, and consequently the rate of protein mobilization has not been well characterized. The objective of this study was therefore to determine the change in indicators of muscle mass during early lactation using ultrasonographic measurement of muscle thickness and changes in plasma creatinine concentration. The maximum thickness of the gluteus medius and longissimus dorsi muscles of 106 Holstein cows (34 primiparous, 72 multiparous) was determined ultrasonographically on d -3, 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 relative to the day of parturition. Plasma creatinine concentration was measured periodically during the same period. Mixed models analysis and Passing-Bablok regression were used to analyze the data. Gluteus medius thickness, longissimus dorsi loin thickness (LDLT), and longissimus dorsi thoracic thickness (LDTT) were decreased at 28 d postpartum compared with d 3 antepartum. Plasma creatinine concentration was weakly associated with gluteus medius thickness, LDLT, and LDTT (Spearman's rho = 0.31, 0.39, and 0.32, respectively). Plasma creatinine concentration in primiparous and multiparous cows at 28 d postpartum decreased by 0.24 and 0.30 mg/dL, respectively, compared with values 3 d antepartum. We concluded that ultrasonographic measurement of LDLT and LDTT and change in plasma creatinine concentration may provide practical methods for monitoring the rate of protein mobilization in periparturient dairy cows. Ultrasonographic examination of LDLT and LDTT therefore complements ultrasonographic measurement of backfat thickness and may be useful in the evaluation of energy reserve mobilization in periparturient dairy cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A A Megahed
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47905; Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Animal Medicine, Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor-Toukh, Kalyobiya, 13736, Egypt
| | - M W H Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47905; Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra, Selangor, 43400, Malaysia
| | - D Ragland
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47905
| | - P D Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vincze B, Gáspárdy A, Kézér FL, Pálffy M, Bangha Z, Szenci O, Kovács L. Fetal metacarpal/metatarsal bone thickness as possible predictor of dystocia in Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:10283-10289. [PMID: 30197149 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-14658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Dystocia and perinatal calf mortality cause significant economic losses in the dairy cattle industry. Despite advanced ultrasound examination procedures, there is no reliable method to estimate the birth weight of calves in order to predict, prepartum, the risk of dystocia. The aim of this study was to predict calf birth weight and dystocia based on transrectal ultrasonographic (TRUS) examinations in late-term Holstein heifers and cows. Therefore, TRUS examination was performed on 128 animals that were between 265 and 282 d of gestation to measure the bone thickness of the fetal metacarpus (MC) or metatarsus (MT). Fetal TRUS measurements were successful in 104 cases. Excluding twin deliveries, 97 fetal MC/MT bone thicknesses were measured and the mean (±SD) MC/MT thickness was 2.54 ± 0.37 cm. A novel index, the metacarpal/metatarsal index [MCTI = maternal body weight (kg)/fetal MC or MT thickness (cm)], was also calculated to study its association with calving ease. The average MCTI was 257.3 kg/cm in the studied population. A lower MCTI was associated with the risk of dystocia with an odds ratio of 2.074 that was not significantly different from 1 (95% confidence interval: 0.002-11.104). Fetal presentation, fetal age, fetal sex, body condition score of the dam, age of dam, and intercoxal and interischiadic distances were not related to dystocia. A fair phenotypic correlation (0.226) was found between MC/MT thickness and calf birth weight. The genetic correlation between MC/MT thickness and calf birth weight was 0.235. Our results indicate that late-term measurement of the fetal MC/MT bone thickness by means of TRUS examination augmented with the MCTI may have clinical significance in the prediction of dystocia in Holstein cattle. Because the odds ratio for dystocia based on MCTI determination was not significant, the applied technique should be improved based on further studies on prepartum TRUS examinations combined with dam pelvic measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Vincze
- MTA-SZIE Large Animal Clinical Research Group, Üllő-Dóra major H-2225, Hungary; Department of Animal Breeding, Nutrition and Laboratory Animal Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, István utca 2, Budapest H-1078, Hungary
| | - A Gáspárdy
- Department of Animal Breeding, Nutrition and Laboratory Animal Science, University of Veterinary Medicine, István utca 2, Budapest H-1078, Hungary
| | - F L Kézér
- MTA-SZIE Large Animal Clinical Research Group, Üllő-Dóra major H-2225, Hungary; Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Science, Szent István University, Páter Károly utca 1, Gödöllő H-2100, Hungary
| | - M Pálffy
- MTA-SZIE Large Animal Clinical Research Group, Üllő-Dóra major H-2225, Hungary
| | - Zs Bangha
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Science, Szent István University, Páter Károly utca 1, Gödöllő H-2100, Hungary
| | - O Szenci
- MTA-SZIE Large Animal Clinical Research Group, Üllő-Dóra major H-2225, Hungary
| | - L Kovács
- MTA-SZIE Large Animal Clinical Research Group, Üllő-Dóra major H-2225, Hungary; Institute of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Science, Szent István University, Páter Károly utca 1, Gödöllő H-2100, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hiew MWH, Baird AN, Constable PD. Clinical signs and outcomes of beef cattle undergoing cesarean section because of dystocia. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2018; 252:864-872. [DOI: 10.2460/javma.252.7.864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
15
|
Megahed AA, Hiew MWH, Constable PD. Clinical Utility of Plasma Fructosamine Concentration as a Hypoglycemic Biomarker during Early Lactation in Dairy Cattle. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 32:846-852. [PMID: 29424465 PMCID: PMC5866980 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 11/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Plasma fructosamine concentration ([FRA]) is a widely used long term hyperglycemic biomarker in humans and dogs, but its clinical usefulness as a hypoglycemic biomarker in dairy cattle is uncertain. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between plasma [FRA] and glucose concentration ([gluc]) as well as indices of energy balance during early lactation in dairy cattle, and to characterize the influence of plasma total protein concentration ([TP]) and albumin concentration ([albumin]) on [FRA]. Animals Convenience sample comprising 103 periparturient Holstein–Friesian cattle. Methods Plasma [gluc], [TP], [albumin], and other clinicopathologic indices of energy status were determined periodically from Day 4 postpartum. Body condition score (BCS) was assessed, and backfat thickness (BFT) and longissimus dorsi muscle thickness (LDT) were measured ultrasonographically. Plasma [FRA] was measured at approximately 28 days postpartum. Associations between plasma [FRA] and study variables were evaluated using Spearman's rho and stepwise forward linear regression. Statistical significance was declared at P < 0.05. Results A positive association was detected between plasma [FRA] and mean plasma [gluc] from Days 4–28 postpartum (rs = +0.36, P < 0.001), and between plasma [FRA] and LDT (rs = +0.28, P = 0.007), BCS (rs = +0.23, P = 0.029), and BFT (rs = +0.21, P = 0.043). Multivariable regression identified a positive association between plasma [FRA] and mean plasma [gluc] and [albumin] from Days 4–28 postpartum. Correcting plasma [FRA] for [albumin] improved the association (rs = +0.46, P < 0.001) between plasma [FRA] and mean plasma [gluc]. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Plasma [FRA] does not provide a clinically useful method for quantifying the magnitude of hypoglycemia or negative energy balance in dairy cows during early lactation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A A Megahed
- Department of Animal Medicine, Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Kalyobiya, Egypt.,Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
| | - M W H Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - P D Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Megahed AA, Hiew MWH, El Badawy SA, Constable PD. Plasma calcium concentrations are decreased at least 9 hours before parturition in multiparous Holstein-Friesian cattle in a herd fed an acidogenic diet during late gestation. J Dairy Sci 2017; 101:1365-1378. [PMID: 29174149 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-13376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Calcium homeostatic mechanisms are challenged in periparturient multiparous dairy cattle due to the rapid transport of large amounts of calcium into the mammary gland associated with colostrogenesis, resulting in decreased plasma total calcium concentration ([Ca]). An unresolved issue is the timing of the decrease in plasma [Ca] relative to the time of parturition, with the consensus view being that plasma [Ca] does not decrease until after parturition. The objective of this study, therefore, was to characterize the change in plasma [Ca] over time in periparturient dairy cattle. Plasma and mid-stream urine samples were collected daily starting 3 d before calving from 104 periparturient Holstein-Friesian dairy cows in a herd fed an acidogenic total mixed ration during the late dry period. Mixed-models ANOVA and linear and multivariable regression analyses were conducted. Plasma [Ca] decreased in periparturient multiparous cattle (n = 70) but not in primiparous cattle (n = 34). Compared with mean values approximately 72 h before parturition ([Ca] = 2.32 mmol/L), mean plasma [Ca] in multiparous cattle first decreased at 9 h before parturition (2.13 mmol/L) and remained decreased for up to 48 h after parturition, with the lowest mean value (1.87 mmol/L) occurring at 28 h after parturition. Mean 24-h urine Ca excretion was calculated to decrease by 3.5 to 3.8 g in periparturient multiparous cattle. Regression analysis indicated that plasma [Ca] in the 12-h period before and 24-h period after parturition was strongly and negatively associated with age but was also negatively associated with milk production indices. We conclude that plasma [Ca] was decreased at least 9 h before parturition in multiparous dairy cattle fed an acidogenic diet in late gestation, and that calcium homeostasis was disrupted for 2 to 3 d around parturition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameer A Megahed
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Mark W H Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Shymaa A El Badawy
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Peter D Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Megahed AA, Hiew MWH, Townsend JR, Constable PD. Characterization of the analytic performance of an electrochemical point-of-care meter for measuring β-hydroxybutyrate concentration in blood and plasma from periparturient dairy cattle. Vet Clin Pathol 2017; 46:314-325. [DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ameer A. Megahed
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Purdue University; West Lafayette IN USA
- Department of Animal Medicine (Internal Medicine); Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Benha University; Benha Egypt
| | - Mark W. H. Hiew
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Purdue University; West Lafayette IN USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Universiti Putra Malaysia; Selangor Malaysia
| | - Jonathan R. Townsend
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Purdue University; West Lafayette IN USA
| | - Peter D. Constable
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine; College of Veterinary Medicine; University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Urbana IL USA
| |
Collapse
|