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Proceedings of the XXV Jubilee World Buiatrics Congress

Budapest, Hungary - 2008

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Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders 3

2 Polyunsatured Fatty Acid in Dairy Cows: a Case of Functional Feed (NAT3)

G. Gabaldo1, A. De Palma3, A. Fusari2, M. Pizzicara1,S. Tinelli3, A. Ubaldi21

Original Process, Cholet, France2

University of Parma, Department of Animal Health, Parma, Italy3

Veterinary Practitioner, Verona, Italy

Omega 3 fatty acids can cross the rumen wall not being saturated bysaturates. In this mechanism, DHA plays a fundamental ruleconditioning the rumen flora to convert C18:2 fatty acids in C18:1(trans vaccenic acid). This switch in the fatty acids production producesan increase in CLA and DHA milk fat fractions other than other typesof unsaturated fatty acids specific for dairy milk, that ameliorates thenutritional characteristics of the milk for humans.Experimental study was performed utilising commercial product (FOG3)containing an association of olyunsatured Fatty Acid (PUFAs) fromvegetable-origin like Linolenic Acid and from animal-origin like E.P.A.and D.H.A. (NAT), associated with antioxidant molecules (Vitamin E andSelenium) and stimulating factors of the rumen fauna (FAP).The trial involved totally 44 heads of dairy cows by 5 farms, one in theprovince of Verona (10 treatments and 10 controls), where only thezoometric and milk quality indices were tested and 4 farms in the provinceof Bari, where metabolic, endocrinological, fertility, zoometric and milkquality indices were tested in 6 cows each farm (3 cases and 3 controlseach). Biochemical analysis performed stressed that treatments involvedin this study influenced particularly parameters correlated to lipid status. The study confirms that omega 3 fatty acids influenced lipoproteicfractions (LDL and HDL) and total cholesterol levels that can be use topoint out the necessity to administer omega 3 fatty acids. In treated andcontrol subjects, plasma progesterone levels were measured.Reproduction performance tests showed a good correlation betweenanalytical data and the levels of progesterone and the proof ofpregnancy. In the milk collected by treated cows we noted a significantincrease in CLA (C18:2) +109,34%, DHA (C22:6) + 223,80%, andpalmitoleic acid (C16:1) +18.57%, while a decrease in ratios of EPA(C20 :5) -57.14%, ALA (C18:3) -20.79% and stearic acid (C18:0) -26.09% was observed.Key words: PUFAs, omega 3, DHA, CLA, EPA, transition cow,fertility

3 Three Methods of Supplementing Selenium to IntensivelyGrazed Beef Cattle

J. Maas University of California, Veterinary Medicine Extension, Davis,United States

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of supplementing selenium (Se)to grazing beef cattle by injection, intra-ruminal bolus, and Sefertilization of pastures.Materials and Methods: Weaned beef heifers (16 per group) intensivelygrazing irrigated pastures were studied using 4 treatments in 4 replicatesfor 2 years and the trials lasted 120 days. Group 1: one intra-ruminalosmotic pump bolus supplying 3 mg Se for 120 days; group 2: 2.5 mgSe/45.4 kg subcutaneously; group 3: pastures fertilized with 10g Se perhectare (sodium selenate); and, group 4: Se deficient heifers with no Sesupplements. The Se fertilized pastures were treated prior to the grazingseason and all other treatments were administered on day 0. Bloodsamples for Se analysis were collected at days 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 ofeach trial period. Selenium was analyzed by ICP spectroscopy and datawas analyzed by ANOVA methods.Results: Blood Se concentration (ppb; µg/l) data is listed as values for day0, 30, 60, 90, and 120, respectively. Year 1. Group 1: 13 ± 4, 94 ± 28, 130± 19, 184 ± 15, and 234 ± 27. Group 2: 13 ± 5, 30 ± 6, 20 ± 8, 15 ± 3, and8 ± 6. Group 3: 13 ± 5, 113±28, 135 ± 23, 159 ± 20, and 148 ± 16. Group4: 12 ± 4, 14 ± 5, 10 ± 6, 5 ± 1, and 4 ± 4. Year 2. Group 1: 16 ± 3, 88 ±7, 126 ± 13, 172 ± 19, and 200 ± 19. Group 2: 20 ± 4, 31 ± 4, 27 ± 3, 18 ±2, and 10 ± 3. Group 3: 17 ± 3, 46 ± 11, 56 ±9, 46 ± 8, and 40 ± 8. Group4: 22 ± 8, 13 ± 6, 9 ± 2, 9 ± 4, and 7 ± 4. The blood Se concentrations weresignificantly (P < 0.0001) increased above controls (group 4) for groups 1and 3 in both years and at all times after day 0. Group 2 blood Se

concentrations were increased (P < 0.05) above control cattle only at day30 (year 1 and 2) or day 60 (year 2 only).Conclusions: The use of intra-ruminal Se boluses or Se fertilization ofpastures resulted in superior increases in blood Se concentrations incattle intensively grazing irrigated pastures vs. cattle receiving a singleSe injection. The bolus achieved more consistent increases in blood Seconcentrations.

4 Clinicopathological Evaluation of Downer Dairy Cows withFatty Liver

P. Kalaitzakis1, N. Panousis1, N. Roubies2, N. Giadinis1,E. Kaldrymidou3,H. Karatzias11

School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, Clinic of FarmAnimals, Thessaloniki, Greece

2School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, Laboratory ofClinical Diagnosis and Clinical Pathology, Thessaloniki, Greece

3School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, Laboratory ofPathology, Thessaloniki, Greece

Objective: To evaluate the severity of fatty liver and macro mineral statusin downer dairy cows and asses the usefulness of determination of serumornithine carbamoyl transferase (OCT) activity, bile acids concentration,and other variables for prognosis.Materials and Methods: 36 Holstein downer cows were used. Blood andliver biopsy specimens were obtained as soon as possible after cowsbecame recumbent and before any treatments were administered. Livertissue was examined histologically and classified according to the severityof fatty liver. Serum activities of liver-derived enzymes (OCT, GDH,SDH and also AST, ALT, GGT, ALP) and concentrations of total lipids,triglycerides, bile acids, glucose, ‚-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetic acid, totalbilirubin, nonesterified fatty acids, cholesterol and macro minerals (Ca,Mg, K, Na, P) were determined.Results: The majority of the downer cows had fatty liver infiltration;44% were classified as moderate and 44% were classified as severefatty liver infiltration. Survival of the downer cows with moderate andsevere fatty liver was poor. Serum activities of OCT and GDH, andNEFA/cholesterol ratio were indicators of fatty liver. Serum bile acidsconcentration was not an accurate indicator of fatty liver.Conclusions: Fatty liver is quite common in downer cows. Serumactivities of OCT and GDH are useful indicators of fatty liver.NEFA/cholesterol ratio is also recommended for diagnosis of fattyliver in downer dairy cows, whereas determination of bile acidsconcentration is not. Key words: fatty liver, OCT, GDH, downer cows

5 Vitamin E and Oxidative Damage in Heifers

R. Bouwstra1, R. Goselink1, P. Dobbelaar1, M. Nielen1,J. Newbold2, T. Werven11

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Animal HealthDepartment, Utrecht, Netherlands

2Provimi Research and Innovation Centre, Brussels, Belgium

The question is whether measurements of oxidative and vitamin Estatus in blood of a periparturient cow are representative for the totalbody, given that blood concentrations of vitamin E and oxidative stressproducts change around this period. This study investigated therelationship between oxidative damage and the effect of vitamin Esupplementation in blood, milk and liver tissue in sixteen periparturientheifers. The daily vitamin E intake of the vitamin E supplementedHolstein Friesian heifers (n=8) was 3000 international units and startedtwo months before calving; the control heifers (n=8) were notsupplemented. Oxidative damage was determined on the basis ofmalondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. Blood was sampled ninetimes before calving, on calving day and twice after calving. Liverbiopsies were taken at week -5, -1, and 2 relative to calving day. Milkwas obtained from all heifers immediately after calving, the first twomilkings and on days 3, 7 and 14 at 6 am. Serum and liver tissue wereanalyzed for vitamin E, cholesterol and MDA and milk samples wereanalyzed for vitamin E, MDA, fat, protein and somatic cell count. Theresults show that vitamin E supplements increased both absolutevitamin E concentrations and the ratio of vitamin E to cholesterol in

Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders

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Proceedings of the 25th World Buiatrics Congress, 2008 - Budapest, Hungary

4 XXV. Jubilee World Buiatrics Congress 2008

blood and liver tissue. Absolute vitamin E concentration in milk tendedto be higher in supplemented cows. Based on the increased MDA bloodconcentrations at calving, it seems that dairy heifers experienceoxidative stress. The effect of vitamin E on MDA differs between theblood, liver and mammary gland. Vitamin E supplementation could notprevent the rise in blood MDA at calving, but the significantly lowerMDA blood concentrations of supplemented cows in the two weeksafter calving suggest vitamin E has a role in recovery from parturition-related oxidative stress. Vitamin E supplementation reduced oxidativedamage in liver, while no obvious effect was found on milk MDAconcentrations. A strong relationship was found between blood andliver tissue vitamin E and the ratio of vitamin E to cholesterol. MDAconcentrations in blood and milk were also strongly related. The resultsshow that the relationship between oxidative damage and vitamin Ediffers within blood, liver tissue and milk. This implies that oxidativeand vitamin E status calculated on the basis of blood values aloneshould be interpreted with caution and cannot be extrapolated to thewhole animal.Key words: vitamin E, oxidative damage, dairy heifer

34 Serum Non-Esterified Fatty Acid and Beta-Hydroxybutyrate inthe Transition Period and their Associations with Disease inDairy Cows

M. Carson1, S. LeBlanc1, S. Godden2, M. Capel3,M. Overton4, J. Santos5, K. Leslie1, T. Duffield11

Ontario Veterinary College, Population Medicine, Guelph, Canada2

University of Minnesota, Population Medicine, St. Paul, USA3

Perry Veterinary Clinic, Perry, USA4

University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, USA5

University of California, College of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, USA

Introduction: Serum non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and beta-hydroxy-butyrate (BHB) concentrations provide insight into themetabolic health of transition dairy cows. The objective of this studywas to further characterize the relationship of serum NEFA and BHBconcentrations in the transition period with clinical disease in dairycows across different regions of North America. Methods: A field study was conducted using 2403 Holstein cows in 56dairy herds in 4 regions of Canada and the United States. Once weekly,after the morning feeding, blood was collected from cows in the weekbefore their expected calving date, and again from the same cows inweeks 1, 2, and 3 postpartum. Serum was stored at -20°C within 8hours of collection. NEFA and BHB were measured using a Hitachi911 auto-analyzer.Results: Results were available from 2149 (confirm) cows. Consideredalone and assuming equal weight on sensitivity and specificity, theoptimal cut-points for prediction of LDA were, prepartum: NEFA < 0.5mEq/L; week 1 postpartum: NEFA 1.0; or week 1 or 2 postpartum:BHB 1400 mol/L (i.e. subclinical ketosis (SCK)). The 23% of cowswith NEFA 0.5 in week -1 were 2.8 times more likely to subsequentlyhave LDA than cows below this cut-point. The 20.5% of cows withNEFA > 1.0 in week +1 were 4.6 times more likely to develop LDA.The prevalence of SCK and relative risk for affected cows to developLDA were 14% and 4.4 in week +1, and 16% and 3.6 in week +2. Cowsthat did not have elevated NEFA pre- or postpartum or SCK had thelowest risk of LDA (0.8%). Conversely, cows that had both highpostpartum NEFA and SCK, with or without high NEFA prepartum,had a 15 to 16% incidence of LDA. The magnitude, timing, andduration of elevations in NEFA and BHB combine in a complexmanner to predict the risk of LDA. Among the 53% of cows withNEFA > 0.3 mEq/L in week -1, there was a significant (P = 0.005) butmodest increase in risk of RP (9% vs. 6%; RR = 1.6).Conclusion: These data confirm the associations of NEFA and BHB withhealth and support their use as tools for monitoring or investigation oftransition dairy cows. However, used alone, the positive predictive valueof these associations is low, which is expected given the multifactorialnature of both RP and LDA.

35 The Effect of Organic and Inorganic Dietary Selenium Sourceson Selenium Levels in Blood, Colostrum and Milk andMetabolic Profile in Dairy Cows

D. Kumprechtova1, J. Illek1, N. Ballet21

Veterinary and Pharmaceutical University Brno, Clinic of RuminantDiseases, Brno, Czech Republic

2Lesaffre Feed Additives, R&D, Lille, France

Objective: The aim was to compare effects of two levels of organicselenium (Se) sources and an inorganic selenium source on blood,colostrum and milk Se levels, blood chemistry parameters in dairycows under field conditions. Material and methods: 36 Holstein cows from 5 weeks (wk) ante-partum (a.p.) to 12 weeks postpartum (p.p.). Treatments (n=9): 1. NC noSe added, 2. PC - 0.3 ppm Se (sodium selenite), S1 0.3 ppm Se (Seyeast), 3. S2 - 5 ppm Se (Se yeast). At 5 and 1 wk a.p., at the calving, and4, 8, 12 wk p.p., blood samples were analysed for Se, GSH-Px, TP,albumin, urea, billirubin, AST, GMT, CK, vit. E. Colostrum and milkwas collected at the calving and 4, 8 and 12 wk p.p. and analysed for Se.Results: Initial Se status in all the cows was marginal. NC showedsuboptimal Se levels for whole period. S1 and S2 showed significantly(P < 0.01) higher values than NC and PC.

Colostrum Se levels were higher (P < 0.01) in S1 (128.17 µg/l) and S2(155.58 µg/l) than in NC (94.68 µg/l) and PC (99.3 µg/l).Overall meanmilk Se levels in S1 (20.4 µg/l) and S2 (50.0 µg/l) were higher (P <0.01) than in NC (10.9 µg/l) and PC (16.6 µg/l). GSH-Px activity inwhole blood in S1 and S2 was higher than in NC and PC (P < 0.01). CKactivity decreased with higher org. Se doses. TP, albumin, urea,billirubin, AST, GMT, and vit. E were within the physiological ranges,non-significant differences.Conclusions: Se levels in whole blood, colostrum and milk, and GSH-Px activity were significantly increased by organic Se supplementation.The response was dose dependent and consistent. Selenium fromorganic source was more bio available than selenium from sodiumselenite. Dietary Se at a tolerance dose (5 ppm) had no detrimentaleffect on the blood chemistry parameters analysed. Project no. 1G46086 (NAZV).Key words: dairy cows, organic selenium, blood, milk, metabolicprofile

36 The Influence of Subclinical Hypocalcemia on Production andReproduction Parameters in Israeli Dairy Herds

Ch. Gild, Ni. Alpert, Mi. Van-Straten Hachaklait, Ceasaria, Israel

Introduction: Nearly all mature cows experience some degree ofHypocalcemia (HypoC) during the 1st hours post calving. Most cowscope with these low Ca concentrations without apparent clinical signshowever, in some cases Ca concentrations decline to levels that disruptneuromuscular function, resulting in the clinical syndrome known as milkfever. It has been established that cows suffering from clinical milk feverare susceptible to a variety of secondary problems. To the best of ourknowledge, no one has evaluated the impact of subclinical HypoC on(re)production parameters. Most trials compare the affect of different dietson the occurrence of HypoC (clinical and subclinical). Big emphasis isgiven to the subclinical condition although its adverse effects have notbeen proven. Our objective was to investigate the association betweensubclinical HypoC and (re)production parameters in Israeli dairy herds.Materials and methods: Blood samples for corrected calcium werecollected from 634 mature cows from 5 farms. Disease andreproduction data were recorded for 180 days. Milk and milk solidsdata originated from monthly milk recordings. Subclinical HypoC wasdefined as serum corrected Ca below 7.5 mg/dl 8-20 hours postpartumin the absence of milk fever. Associations between subclinical HypoCand retained placenta, metritis, ketosis, stillbirth and uterus prolapsewere investigated using chi-square tests. Time to conception data wasanalyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. The relationship betweensubclinical HypoC and milk production was investigated with amarginal model for repeated measurements.

Table 1. Se levels in whole blood

Treat- NC PC S1 S2 Pment (0,3ppm Se) (0,3ppm Se) (5 ppm Se)

Se (µg/l) Se (µg/l) Se (µg/l) Se (µg/l)Mean S.D. Mean S.D. Mean S.D. Mean S.D.

5 wk a.p. 69,16 5,0 70,3 5,7 77,7 7,3 70,6 6,71 wk a.p. 68,2a 6,2 90,8a 7,0 97,7b 7,7 155,0c 22,1 < 0,01Calving 67,0a 5,6 93.6b 7,9 109,1c 7,9 152,2d 16,5 < 0,014 wk p.p. 65,7a 5,7 86,1b 33,7 129,1c 7,7 170,8d 19,8 < 0,018 wk p.p 68,9a 4,3 105,1b 7,0 128,6c 11,2 184,4d 9,9 < 0,0112 wk p.p. 73,52a 5,03 110,0b 15,9 129,22c 9,58 193,49d 15,32 < 0,01




Results: Occurrence of clinical and subclinical HypoC was 2.5%, 18.8%respectively. Compared with normocalcemic cows, the subclinicalhypocalcemic cows produced 3.2, 2.7 and 1.9 kg more milk in the firstthree milk recordings, respectively. Sub clinical hypocalcmic cows didnot have an increased risk for post parturient diseases nor compromisedreproduction parameters in comparison to normocalcemic cows.Conclusions: We could not demonstrate a negative impact of thesubclinical condition on (re)production parameters. We hypothesize thatalthough Ca blood levels decline to sub normal values, the short timeperiod and physiological adaptations enable cows to undergo thisdisturbance without apparent (re)production loss. Our results suggest thatanionic diets to prevent subclinical HypoC are not warranted in Israel asthe incidence of milk fever is relatively low.

37 Fatty Liver and Serum Concentrations of Insulin and Glucosein Dairy Cows

D. Kirovsci1, H. Samanc2, M. Jovanovic3, N. Fratric1,D. Gvozdis4, I. Vujanac2, B. Dimitrijevic21

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Department of Physiology,Belgrade, Serbia

2Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Department of InternalMedicine, Belgrade, Serbia

3Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Department of Pathology,Belgrade, Serbia

4Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Department ofPathophysiology, Belgrade, Serbia

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between fatty liverand serum concentrations of insulin and glucose in dairy cows duringperipartal period. Twenty-one Holstein dairy cows were used in thisstudy. The cows were classified into three groups (n=7 per group)according to the histopathologic findings in hepatocytes: Group 1: cowswith mild fatty liver, Group 2: cows with moderate fatty liver and Group3: cows with severe fatty liver. Liver samples for histopathologic analysiswere collected from cows by percutaneous needle biopsy on day 10postpartum. Liver samples were fixed in paraformaldehyde solution, cutand stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Blood serum insulin and glucoseconcentrations were determinated in blood samples obtained from v.jugularis at the middle of dry period (30 to 35 days prior parturition), 5 to10 days prior parturition and 10 days after parturition. Insulin con-centration was measured by radioimmunoassay. Glucose concentrationwas measured spectrophotometrically. Insulin concentration wassignificantly lower at day 10 postpartum than 5 to 10 days prior to partus(p < 0.05) and 30 to 35 days prior to partus (p < 0.01) in all three groupsof cows. No significant differences in serum insulin concentrations werepresent among groups of cows in all examined time periods. In Group 3serum glucose concentration was significantly lower 10 days postpartumthan 5 to 10 days prior to parturition (p < 0.001) and 30 to 35 days prior toparturition (p < 0.01). In Group 1 significant decrease of glucoseconcentration was determinated from 5 to 10 days prior to parturition to10 days postpartum (p < 0.05). There was no significant decrease in serumglucose concentration between examinated time periods in Group 2. Theserum glucose concentration in Group 3 was significantly lower then inGroups 1 and 2 both 30 to 35 days prior to parturition (p < 0.05) and 10days postpartum. Our results indicate that cows with severe fatty liverhave low glucose levels, probably because of impaired gluconeogenesis.The level of glycemia was not correlated with serum insulinconcentrations which indicate that glucose concentration is undercomplex endocrine control during peripartal period. Key words: dairy cows, fatty liver, insulin, glucose

38 Metabolic Syndrome in Cows: TNF-1 and Fat Metabolism inHeifers with Different Body Condition (BCS) at Parturition

M. Fürll, N. Jatzke, K. Bauer, I. Steinhöfel, J. Gottschalk, U. Sack, A. Einspanier University of Leipzig, Internal Medicine, Leipzig, Germany

Objectives: Recent studies in humans and other animals have shownthat fat tissue is not a simple energy storage organ, but releases a lotof molecules which exerts important endocrine and immunefunctions. Adipocytes secrete numerous bioactive substances,including hormones, growth factors and cytokines. Abdominal fataccumulation has been shown to play crucial roles in thedevelopment of the human metabolic syndrome. This studydescribes the effect of body condition on metabolic profiles,

hormones and cytokines in Holstein cows during the peripartalperiod. Maybe there are some similarities with the components of thehuman metabolic syndrome. Material and methods: 15 cattle were fed with a high energetic diet(hED) until they became pregnant, 15 heifers were chosen becauseof their high back fat thickness (hBFTh), and 15 cattle were fed inoptimum conditions (oED). Blood samples were taken 1 week beforeparturition (w a.p.), 3 days after parturition (d p.p.) and 1 month p.p.to determine metabolic, hormonal as well as immunologicalparameters.Results: The FFA, insulin and TNF1 concentration (medians) areshown in the table.

In high back fat thickness, the cows insulin concentrations weresignificant higher at the third d p.p. than in the other groups; the highback thick fatness cows showed the highest glucose concentrationsduring the whole sample period. We found a positive correlationbetween TNF-1 and FFA concentrations in cattle with hBFTh(r=0.63). In hBFTh heifers and in cattle the concentrations of IGF-Iwere significant lower at day 3 p.p. Not only a positive correlationexisted among the IGF-I and the FFA concentrations (r=-0.52) butalso a negative correlation among IGF-I and haptoglobin in allgroups (r=-0.61). Conclusion: In conclusion the study shows that changes of energy fatmetabolism - including TNF-1 from adipose tissue is comparable withthe metabolic syndrome in humans and may be directly involved in thepathogenesis of many postpartum disturbances.Key words: metabolism, body condition, metabolic syndrome, heifers

39 Influence of Gluconeogenesis on Metabolic Status andAppereance of Oxydative Stress in Peripartal Cows

B. Dimitrijevic1, S. Borozan21

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Clinic for Ruminants andPigs, Belgrade, Serbia

2Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Belgrade, Chemistry, Belgrade, Serbia

In ketotic condition of cows, due to presence of ketone bodies,appearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogenspecies (RNS) might occur. Durable presence of ketone bodies maycause cells susceptible to irreversible damage, what is reflected inincreased lipid peroxidation through damaging of cell membranes, aswell as increased level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) enzyme inextra cellular space. The objective of this study was to examine impactof keton bodies on ROS and RNS production, levels of lipid andprotein damage in different level concentration of keton bodies insample of cows blood. Research was conducted on sample of HolsteinFriesian cows (n=15), during few first days after calving, and presenceof keton bodies was proven. Control group was made up of cows withnegative test on ketone bodies. Production of ROS was examinedthrough activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)enzymes in erythrocytes, whereas production of RNS was monitoredthrough the contents of nitrites in blood plasma of the examinedanimals with ELISA. The level of lipid peroxydation was monitoredthrough malondialdehyde (MDA). The effect of free radicals provokedby keton bodies on hepatocytes was monitored through determinationof izoenzymes distribution of LDH (LDH1-LDH5) by electroforesis.Research results showed significantly increase in SOD activity(P<0,001). Activity of CAT enzyme was significantly increased andwas 95,59±17,46 U/g Hb, in control group 63,82±5,44 U/g Hb. Thecontents of nitrites in ketotic cows was 7,8±1,2 µM/L, in control group4,8±0,50 µM/L. Distribution of LDH izoenzymes was LDH137,96±2,59%, LDH2 22,99±2,82%, LDH3 18,93±1,85%, LDH43,19±0,20%, LDH5 15,78 ±6,28% and in control group: LDH145±3,01%, LDH2 35±2,62%, LDH3 22±1,56%, LDH4 4,07±0,5% andLDH5 1,31±0,7%. The level of (MDA) was 44,96±6,21 nM/gHb, and10,27±2,14 nM/gHb in control group. The effects of keton bodiesresults in increased production of SOD, hydrogen peroxide and RNS,depending on keton bodies concentration. Joint impact of ROS and

FFA (mmol/l) insulin (nmol/l) TNF1 (ng/ml)1 w 3 d 3–5w 1 w 3 d 3–5 w 1 w 3 d 3–5 w a.p. p.p. p.p. a.p. p.p. p.p. a.p. p.p. p.p.

hED 160 610 200 0,16 0,07 0,12 27 33 29oED 190 450 275 0,13 0,09 0,09 10 22 10hBFTh 270 612 230 0,16 0,16 0,13 10 10 34




RNS causes increased lipid peroxidation and accelerated proteolysiswhat is reflected in increased presence of LDH5, as hepatocytesdestruction.Key words: cow, keton bodies, oxydative stress, ROS, RNS

70 Effect of BCS Change during the Dry Period on thePerformance of Dairy Cows

T. Van Werven, D. Speksnijder, J. Papen, M. Nielen Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Farm AnimalHealth, Utrecht, Netherlands

This abstract shows the preliminary results of an on going blind trialon the effect of orally supplemented vitamin E during the dry periodon the performance of dairy cows. Most studies are interested ineither calving BCS or amount of BCS loss postpartum. This studyevaluates the effect of BCS change (loss or gain) during the dryperiod on the postpartum performance of the cow. Five dairy farmswere selected to participate in a blind field trial to investigate theeffect of orally supplemented vit E. From each farm approximately 60dry cows are enrolled into the study 6-8 weeks prior to calving date.Dry cows are divided in two groups (A and B), one group is fed 135IU and the other group 3000 IU of vit E during the dry period. Bodycondition score is measured at a 5-point scale once a week during thedry period, at calving and at the first milk test-day. Milk test-dayrecords are collected for fat, protein and SCC. Data on retainedplacenta are collected and defined as failure to expulse the placentawithin 12 hours pp. Change of body condition score during the dryperiod is calculated by regression analysis which provides cows withan increasing or decreasing BCS during the dry period. Cows with anunchanged BCS during the dry period are included in the group ofcows with increased BCS. Until so far milk test-day records of 94cows are presented. At the beginning of next March all cows will beincluded. From these preliminary results some interesting trends aredemonstrated. There seems to be a difference between the twovitamin E groups (blind). Cows in group A show more often ansignificant increase of BCS during the dry period than cows in groupsB, corrected for herd effects. Cows with average BCS<3 during thedry period showed an higher risk on retained placenta than cows withBSC>3, corrected for increasing or decreasing slope during the dryperiod. Preliminary trends indicate that cows with a BCS loss duringthe dry period are less at risk for a fat/protein ratio > 1.4 than cowsthat gained BCS, corrected for days in milk. These results indicatethat cows with BCS loss in the dry period might have a more efficientenergy metabolism after parturition and therefore be less at risk formetabolic diseases like ketosis after parturition. Those cows mightexperience fewer metabolic changes during the transition from lategestation to early lactation. The possible effect of vit E on BCS needsfurther research.Key words: body condition score, dry period, dairy cows, vitamin E

71 Metabolic Syndrome in Cows: TNF-1 Concentrations beforeand after Parturition in Healthy and Ill Cows

B. Fürll1, G. Hädriich2, M. Fuerll21

University of Leipzig, Department of Veterinary Physiology, Leipzig,Germany

2University of Leipzig, Department of Internal Medicine, Leipzig,Germany

Objectives: Today, cattle health is especially disturbed because of astrained metabolism. Cytokines of the visceral fat depot, TNF-1 forexample, can affect the metabolism negatively. Therefore weinvestigated cows with the aims: a) Are there any differencesbetween the TNF-1 concentrations in healthy and ill cows aroundparturition? b) Can those differences be noted before parturitionalready? c) Are there any TNF-1 changes specific for certaindiseases?Material and methods: 20 healthy cows as well 103 cows withvarious diseases (table) were examined 10 days before parturition (da.p.) and 3 d after parturition (p.p.). Blood samples were analysedbyHitachi 912, TNF-1 by an ELISA.Results: The TNF-1 concentrations a.p. and p.p. of healthy (medians36:37 ng/ml) and ill (140:55 ng/ml) cows differed significantly. Table:TNF-1 (ng/ml), FFA (mmol/l) and haptoglobin (Hp, g/l) concentrations(medians) in healthy cows and cows with different diseases p.p.(*p=0.05)

The TNF-1 concentrations correlate a.p. with the back fat thickness(p>0.05); they are at their highest (p<0.05) in cows with ret. placenta,followed by cows with mastitis and DA (p<0.05). The FFAconcentrations are also especially increased (p<0.05) in cows withmastitis and DA. Increases in Hp concentrations have started to rise atapprox. 10 d a.p. and vanished again 4 weeks p.p. Hp concentrationsalso differ in their behaviour from TNF-1 concentration; they do notcorrelate with each other. However, Hp correlates with FFA r = 0.84,i.e. FFA and Hp have the same dynamics.Conclusion: TNFa concentrations are increased a.p. and p.p. in sickcows; they correlate positively with the BFT. In cows with ret.placenta, mastitis and abomasal displacement, the TNF-1 correlatespositively a.p. with the FFA. Hp concentrations are risen in calvingand puerperal disorders. The study supports the hypotheses thatduring early lactation, adipositas influences the diseases viacytokines.Key words: cattle, metabolic syndrome, cytokines. TNF-1, pp diseases

72 Prevalence of Subclinical Metabolic Disease in TransitionDairy Cows on Large Dairies in Peru

J. Bryk-Lucy1, D. Nydam1, A. Delgado Castro2,A. Gonzales Zariquiey3, M. Montenegro Vega21

Cornell University, Population Medicine, Ithaca, United States2

Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad De MedicinaVeterinaria, Lima, Peru

3Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Dean of VeterinaryCollege, Lima, Peru

Blood concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and pH of rumen fluid can be monitored toindicate cows or herds at risk for excessive metabolic disease andrelated economic losses. Very little information is available about therisk of metabolic disease in the transition cows near Lima, Peru. Theobjective of this study was to determine the prevalence of excessivenegative energy balance (NEB), subclinical ketosis (SCK), andsubacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in transition cows in dairy herdslocated within a 160 km radius of this rapidly growing dairy center.Blood from 128 Holstein cows from 16 herds 2-16 days prepartum and166 Holstein cows from 19 herds 3-21 days postpartum was tested forNEFA and BHB concentrations, respectively. NEFA and BHBconcentrations were analyzed using the DVM NEFA Meter and AbbottPrecision Xtra Ketone Meter, respectively. The average herd size was350 milking cows. Rumen pH was tested in 47 Holstein cows from 9herds using rumenocentesis. A herd-level prevalence of >15% elevatedmetabolic indicators was considered an alarm level for significantrisk of clinical metabolic disease and economic loss. Herd-levelincidence of displaced abomasum, retained placenta, and low milkproduction over the past 30 days was also recorded. Of the sampledherds, 87.5% had a > 15% prevalence of NEFA levels greater than thecut-off point of > 0.4 mmol/L, and the prevalence of herds with >15%subclinical ketosis (cut-off of 1.4 mmol/L) was 52.6%. The within herdprevalence of NEB and SCK ranged from 14% to 80% and 8% to 44%,respectively. The prevalence of SARA (rumen pH <5.5) was 0% in allherds sampled. Only two herds of all herds sampled reported anincident of displaced abomasum. At least one cow was considered lowproducing in 64% of herds with >15% elevated NEFA and in 75% ofherds with >15% elevated BHB. At least one retained placenta wasreported in 85% of herds with >15% elevated NEFA and in 100% ofherds with >15% elevated BHB. Further modelling of the data will bediscussed at the meeting. The results suggest that subclinical metabolicdisease in transition cows is present in dairy herds surrounding Lima,Peru at levels that may negatively impact milk production,reproductive performance, and profitability. There is opportunity to

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FFA -10 80 115 180* 150* 115 310 210* 853 570 870* 872* 790* 875* 875* 620 1270*

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improve management practices to minimize subclinical disease intransition cows and maximize profitability.Key words: metabolic disease, transition cows, subclinical ketosis,negative energy balance, Lima Peru

73 Evaluation of three Laboratory Methods Measuring NEFA inCow’s Blood

T. Gaal, P. Ribiczey Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department ofInternal Medicine, Budapest, Hungary

Non esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the blood are good markers ofnegative energy balance (NEB) in dairy cows. There are severallaboratory methods to assess NEFA concentration. One method isbased on a colorimetric, non-enzymatic technique at room temperature(Duncombe, 1964), the other one applies colorimetric, enzymaticdetermination at 37 °C (Matsubara et al., 1983). Recently a portablephotometer appeared on the market (DVM-NEFA®) using acolorimetric technique for NEFA measurement at room temperature.As laboratory methods need a well-equipped laboratory with skilledpersonnel, introduction of a cow-side test is more than welcome.However, widely used NEFA reference values were established by thelaboratory methods, therefore critical evaluation of DVM-NEFA isrecommended. The goal of this study was to compare NEFA resultsdetermined with 3 methods. On a herd of 900 HF dairy cows bloodsamples were collected from dry cows (n=17) and fresh cows (n= 14).Blood serum NEFA was measured immediately by 3 methods. For thenon-enzymatic method commercial chemicals were used while for theenzymatic method a Randox NEFA test kit was applied on anautomatic chemistry analyzer. Results were analyzed by t-test andregression analysis. Pre-partum NEFA values determined by DVM-NEFA, non-enzymatic and enzymatic methods were 0.258+0.200,0.105+0.090 and 0.093+0.088 mmol/L, respectively. Post-partumthese were 0.706+0.327, 0.300+0.146 and 0.293+0.179 mmol/L. Pre-partum NEFA was lower than post-partum with all methods (P<0.01).Both pre- and post-partum significant differences were found betweenthe results of DVM-NEFA and the two laboratory methods (P<0.05):DVM-NEFA results were more than 2 times higher than thosecompleted by 2 laboratory tests. Good correlation was found both pre-and post-partum between DVM-NEFA and laboratory results(correlation coefficients: 0.86-0.93). As substantial differences were found between the results, establishingreference values for DVM-NEFA is recommended. The widelyaccepted 0.400 mmol/L NEFA as upper reference value in dairy cowswas determined several years ago by laboratory tests and mostprobably could not be used on DVM-NEFA. Applying the 0.400mmol/L NEFA as upper reference limit, all post-partum cows shouldhave been qualified as a severe case of NEB based on the 0.706 +0.327mmol/L NEFA value achieved on the DVM-NEFA instrument.Key words: NEFA, NEB, DVM-NEFA, enzymatic method

74 Non Invasive Detection of Hepatic Steatosis in Dairy Cowswith Calibrated Ultrasonographic Image Analysis

A. Starke1, J. Thijssen2, G. Weijers2, A. Haudum1,K. Herzog1, P. Wohlsein3, C. De Korte2, J. Rehage11

University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Clinic forCattle, Hannover, Germany

2Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Clinic for Cattle,Nijmegen, Netherlands

3University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation,Department of Pathology, Hannover, Germany

In dairy cows, rising liver fat content increases the risk of otherperipartal disorders. Until now, liver biopsies have to be obtainedinvasively for a precise quantification of the hepatic fat content. Theobjective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value ofultrasonographic image analysis for a non invasive detection of hepaticsteatosis in cattle. 151 German HF dairy cows with left sided abomasaldisplacement were included in the study. Abomasal displacement wassurgically corrected during laparotomy. Ultrasonographic images(fixed equipment settings) were obtained transcutaneously and intra-operatively. During surgery, a liver biopsy was taken (liver triglyceridecontent (gold standard); patho-histological examination). A customdesigned software package for computer-aided ultrasound diagnosis(CAUS) was developed. The quantitative comparison of

transcutaneous and intra-operative images enabled the correction forthe attenuation effect of skin and subcutaneous fat/muscle layer on themean echo level in the liver. The effects of the beam formation andattenuation of liver tissue on the echo level vs. depth were taken intoaccount by estimating the mean echo level vs. depth curve of healthylivers. The residual attenuation coefficient (dB/cm) in fatty liver vs.normal liver was estimated and compensated for. In the control group(normal liver (n=10)) skin plus fat/muscle layer attenuation was 4.8dB/cm. In transcutaneous images (n = 151), the mean liver tissue echolevel correlated with the triglyceride content: r = 0.56, correlation of theresidual attenuation coefficient with triglyceride content was r = 0.80.Intra-operatively, the correlation between mean liver tissue echo leveland triglyceride content was r = 0.72, correlation of residual attenuationcoefficient and triglyceride content: r = 0.82. The obtained results showclearly that accumulating fat leads to enhanced ultrasound attenuationin bovine liver. The developed calibrated method offers an accuratealternative for the invasive assessment of liver fat content. The authorsshow in this study the feasibility of computer aided ultrasound for non-invasive diagnosis of hepatic steatosis of the liver. Key words: fatty liver, ultrasonography, CAUS, liver biopsy

75 The Effect of Body Condition Score at Calving andSupplementation with Yeast on Feed intake, Blood Metabolitesand Days to First Ovulation in Peri-parturient Dairy Cows

R. Alibrahim, P. Duffy, L. O’Grady, M. Beltman, A. Kelly,V. Gath, M. Doherty, F. Mulligan University College Dublin, School of Agriculture, Food Science andVeterinary Medicine, Dublin, Ireland

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of body conditionscore (BCS) at calving and supplementation with a live yeast culture(Yea-Sacc1026, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, CBS 493.94) beginning twoweeks pre-calving on feed intake, indicators of negative energy balanceand days to first ovulation in early lactation dairy cows. FortyHolstein/Friesian cows of mixed parity were randomly allocated to twogroups depending on BCS approximately 60 days prior to parturition.Both groups were fed grass silage ad-libitum for the entire 60 days pre-calving and half of each group were supplemented with a dairyconcentrate containing 2.5g of thermo-stable yeast supplement or acontrol concentrate for the last 14 days pre-calving and during the first70 days of lactation. Feed intake was monitored individually in earlylactation. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture on theday of calving and at days 5, 15, 25 and 35 post-calving and analysedfor glucose (GLS) non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and beta-hydroxy-butyrate (BHB). Dairy cows in the high BCS group had a lower(P<0.06) feed intake than cows in the low BCS group in weeks 1 and 2of lactation. However, there was no effect of BCS group on the averagefeed intake over the first 70 days of lactation. High BCS group cowstended to have higher NEFA concentrations (P=0.08) on the day ofcalving and higher BHB concentrations (P=0.09) at 5 days post-calvingwhen compared with the low BCS group. Low BCS group cows hadhigher (P<0.01) GLS concentrations at day 25 post-calving and at day35 post-calving (P=0.06). High BCS group cows had higher BHBconcentrations at day 25 (P=0.07) and 35 (P<0.01) post-calving andhad higher NEFA concentrations at day 25 (P<0.01). Cowssupplemented with S. cerevisiae tended to have lower NEFAconcentrations at day 25 post-calving (P<0.10). There was no effect ofBCS group on days to first ovulation (31.5 vs 29.0 days), size of thefirst dominant follicle (17.9mm vs. 17.5mm) or the size of the firstovulatory follicle (18.6 vs. 18.1mm). Cows fed S. cerevisiae ovulated7.5 days earlier (34.0 vs. 26.5 days) than control cows. However thisdifference was not significant. Low BCS group cows had higher feedintake and improved indices of energy balance in early lactationwithout affecting days to first ovulation. Further investigation withgreater animal numbers is appropriate for the effect of yeastsupplements on days to first ovulation post-partum in dairy cows.

122 Effects of Various Dietary Fat Supplementations on Liver andBlood Parameters in Energy Deficient Transition Cows

R. Karcagi1, T. Gaal2, P. Ribiczey-Szabo2, R. Jolankai1,F. Husveth11

Georgikon Faculty of Agriculture, University of Pannonia, Departmentof Animal Science, Keszthely, Hungary

2Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Departmentof Internal Medicine, Budapest, Hungary




An experiment was conducted to study the influence of calciumsoaps (CAS) or triglyceride (HTG) of hydrogenated palm oil on liverand blood parameters indicating the energy status and lipidmetabolism of cows in the peripartum period. Holstein-Friesiandairy cows were fed on a corn-silage based diet supplemented with11.75 MJ NEL per day of CAS or HTG or without fatsupplementation (control) in a period from d 21+3 prior to theexpected calving to d 100+5 postpartum. At d 21+2 (basal sample)and d 15+2 prepartum and d 5+2, 25+3 postpartum liver biopsy andblood samples and at d 100+5 postpartum an additional bloodsample were collected from the cows. Total lipid (TL), glycogen(GL) content, fatty acid composition of liver lipids and glucose(GLU), insulin (INS), free fatty acid (NEFA), beta hydroxy butirate(BHBA), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (Ch), aspartat-amino-transferase (AST) contents from the blood were determined. Nodifferences were detected in the liver fat among the groups at d 14prepartum or d 25 postpartum. At d 5 postpartum, however, bothcontrol and CAS-cows had higher TL and lower GL concentrationsin the liver than HTG-cows (P<0.05). The variations in the liver lipidconcentrations were accompanied by significant changes in theproportion of C16:0, C16:1n-7, C18:0, C18:1n-9, C18:2n-6 andC20:4n-6 fatty acids in the liver lipids. Considering bloodconstituents HTG-cows had higher GLU and INS concentrationsthan cows in the control group. HTG resulted in a higher level ofGLU than CAS all duration of the experiment. HTG-cows had lowerNEFA concentrations than cows in the control group, however,compared to the CAS-group, NEFA in the HTG group showedsignificantly lower values only at d 15 prepartum and d 100postpartum. During the whole experiment HTG-cows expressed thelowest BHBA concentration comparing to the other two groups. Nosignificant differences were detected in TG and CHOL in the bloodamong the groups at either sampling times. HTG-group hadsignificantly lower AST values than control at all sampling times,while compared to the control group CAS-cows showedsignificantly lower AST only at d 100. It is concluded from our resultsthat fat supplementations can decrease deficiencies of lipid metabolismresulted from energy deficiency in lactating cows around calving.However, HTG had somewhat higher beneficial effect on themetabolism than CAS.

123 Peripartum Heifer Response to Source of Starch inPrepartum diet. I. Milk Production and Ruminal Parameters

H. Mirzaei Alamouti1, K. Yazdi1, H. Amanlo2, A. Tohidi11

University of Tehran, Department of Animal Science, Karaj, Iran2

University of Zanjan, Department of Animal Science, Zanjan, Iran

To determine if source of starch in close-up diets improves lactationperformance and ruminal parameters , Holstein heifers (n=40) were fedtwo different source of ruminally fermentable starch 1) 18.6% groundcorn, or 2) 18.6% rolled wheat from d -21 relative to expectedparturition until parturition. After parturition, all animals received thesame diet. The heifers were group-fed from d -21 to -7 relative toexpected parturition and fed individually from d -7 until 7 d in milk andgroup-fed after 7 d until d 28. Heifers were required to have at least 5 dof prepartum dry matter intake (DMI) data to remain in the study. Theprepartum diets were 1.56 Mcal of NEl/Kg and 15% CP. These dietswere fed ad libitum. Close-up diet affected DMI, NEl intake, energybalance and urea pH in prepartum. The DMI changes, body conditionscore (BCS) and milk yield were similar between treatments, but wheatdiet improved milk yield and components. There was no carry overeffect of close-up diet on DMI, NEl intake and BCS in postpartum.Wheat diet has higher milk protein and lower milk urea nitrogen thancorn diet. Prepartum diets did not affect ruminal fermentationcharacteristics. In summary, wheat grain as a rapidly fermentablesource of starch did not compromise periparturient health andperformance of Holstein heifers.

124 Crimping of Barley Grain with High Moisture - ScandinavianStudies

H. Miettinen KEMIRA OYJ, R&D, Helsinki, Finland

Crimping was developed in Finland in the end of 1960s. In 1918 Britishresearchers had established that grain attains its peak nutritional valuewhen the moisture content of the grain is between 35% and 45%.

However, it took about 50 years before this knowledge wassuccessfully turned into a method to process and preserves the grainwhen still moist. Traditionally, grain is not harvested until it is dryenough to be ground by a hammer mill. In crimping, the grain iscombined moist and run through the crimper machine, which will breakand flatten the grains. Crimped grain is stored in storage silos or plasticbags as silage. After this the question should brought up in everybodydespite the early recognition why received significance of preservationof barley (and other grains) bigger attention just in a past decade. Thebased and the first reason should be, rises of energy prices, and as aresult of this, the high costs of drying and the traditional feedpreparation. Further reasons why this technologies getting morepopular in worldwide, that the earlier harvesting, and over the reducein-field losses, the less weather depended. Practical experiments byfarming and livestock research institutions in Finland, Sweden, UK andHungary and elsewhere have confirmed, that crimped feed has highernutritional values, it increases the animals’ growth and milkproduction, improves milk quality and the animals’ health, and inaddition, helps cut costs. For the good fermentation, in order to ensurethe protection of nutrients and for the aerobe stability of the feed it isadvantageous to use organic acid additives, as preservatives. Finnishexaminations (Jaakkola, et al., 2003 MTT Agrifood) showed that incase of organic acid treated barley, the pH decrease in shorter time forvalue is necessary to the lactic fermentation and will standing on thislevel longer time than the untreated barley. Furthermore observable,that in the case of the treated barley the Ammonia- N content smaller.In studies of Crimped pea-oats we, can see, the aerobic stability of theorganic acid treated grain are better, as the stability of the untreatedgrain or in case of treating with biological.Key words: crimping, barley, preservation, fermentation

125 Crimping of Maize with High Moisture – Feed Hygienic andEconomic Aspects

J. Karnóth1, H. Miettinen2, G. Kovács3, I. Palkó4,L. Wágner5, J. Péter Szûcs6, E. Brydl71

NOACK Hungary Ltd, R&D, Budapest, Hungary2

KEMIRA OYJ, R&D, Helsinki, Finland3

Pannon University Faculty of Georgikon Agricultural Science,Department of animal nutrition, Keszthely, Hungary

4Taurina-Kanizsa Ltd, R&D, Kaposvár, Hungary

5Pannon University Faculty of Agricultural Science, Department ofAnimal Breeding and Nutrition, Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary

6University of Szeged Faculty of Agriculture, Institute for AnimalNutrition Science &Technology, Szeged, Hungary

7Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Veterinary Ethology,Budapest, Hungary

It is essential these days to use silage technologies, which on one handmeet the strict regulations about quality assurance, animal hygiene andenvironment protection, and on the other hand provide high qualityforage at lower costs. The aim of the study was to adopt and developforward a system of processing and storage of grain crops, which is notdepend on the low moisture content of the crops, so it makes a moreflexible harvest possible and it can contribute to animal farming moresuccessful competitiveness. This preservation method has been used inFinland and other Scandinavian countries successfully for many years.This technology includes the processing of the grain crops withcrimping and the direct addition of a fermentative-preservative organicacids that depends on the ripeness of the grains (they could have even30% of moisture content) and on the storing technology. It can be seenfrom our studies that this technology ensures fermentation in the rightdirection. According to our microbiological analyses, the number ofmoulds in after opening was between 100 and 1000. We madecomparative analyses on the mycotoxins F-2, T-2 and DON with thehypothesis that the moulds did not start producing toxins in the maizeharvested early, while toxin production may have started in the maizeharvested traditionally in October. The DON contamination of thesamples at the time of the treatment (end of August) and the time offeeding (October) was below trace level, while 7 out of ten samples ofthe maize harvested traditionally in October had a higher level of DON.The results of mould and mycotoxin tests show that the treatment withorganic acids kills the fungi and bacteria present at harvest and preventtheir multiplication. It can be seen from our aerobic stability tests, thatthe untreated control silages were considerably less stable than thetreated silages. We analysed two varieties, there lasted their stability




only for less than 3 days. All treated wet corn samples (both varieties)protected their stability for 7 days. The fermentation dynamic, aerobicstability, mould and mycotoxin examinations have proven that fromfeed hygienic point of view this technology is more advantageouscomparing to the traditional technologies. Taking into considerationthe technology and the feeding requirements this technology can befully inserted to the cattle feeding system.Key words: corn, crimping, preservation, fermentation, mycotoxin

160 Necessity of the New Biotechnological Methods for AvoidingSubacute Ruminal Acidosis

S. Latos Dr. BATA Biotechnological Co, Reserch & Development, Ócsa,Hungary

There are several strategies for feeding dairy cows, but all of them basedon the roughages, rich in fiber. The ingredients added to the ration(energy-, and protein carriers, vitamins, minerals) can be used for fillingthe gap between the value of the basic forages and the requirements of thecow. To fulfill the energy demand of the early lactation, we have toincrease the energy and decrease the fiber content of the ration. The mostused energy sources are the treated cereals. The treatments are increasingthe digestibility or the rumen metabolisation rate of the non-structuralcarbohydrates in the cereals.The high yielding status can only bemaintained for short time periods but the larger problem is, that theserations are harmful for the health status of the cow. In these cases evolvesthe subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). It can be defined as a temporaryrumen state, with moderate pH decrease (pH 5,5-5,0) in the rumen forseveral hours. Cows suffering in SARA are showing the symptoms suchas decrease in dry matter intake and in yield, lower milk fat, diarrhea, bodycondition loss. Not only a ration with high level of NSC can cause SARA,management faults (feeding techniques, sludge feeding, selection) cansupport the development of the problem. Even the environment (heatstress) can play a role to SARA.The fermented cereals (wet corn) takingmore place in the last years can also higher the risk of SARA. Theycontain high amount of lactic acid and living Lactobacilli. In the acidoticrumen (anaerobic environment, pH>5,5) they can activate and start toproduce even more lactic acid which can lead to an acute ruminalacidosis.In practical farm circumstances, with high NSC and critical NDFlevel rations it is almost impossible to avoid the SARA. This shows thesubservience of using biotechnological products and methods which canhelp to avoid or minimize these damaging processes due to theirbiological activity. A typical example the world-wide used live yeast (Saccharomycescerevisiae), which can directly affect the fermentation, unlike the so calledyeast-metabolites. It is able to consume the oxygen in the rumen, andreacts with the lactic acid utilizing microorganisms. This helps to stabilizethe pH, consequently minimizes the risk of SARA, resulting not only ahigher production but furthermore a better health status and fertility rate.Key words: rumen acidosis, biotechnology, prevention

161 Comparison of the Effect of Feeding of Crimped versus DryCorn Grain in High Producing Dairy Cows

E. Brydl1, A. Tirián1, L. Könyves1, V. Jurkovich1, L. Tegzes1,R. Farkas1, L. Horváth2, M. Török2, J. Karnóth3, H. Miettinen41

Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Veterinary Ethology,Budapest, Hungary

2Gorzsa Agricultural Co, Dairy Farm, Hódmez_vásárhely, Hungary

3NOACK Hungary Ltd, R&D, Budapest, Hungary

4KEMIRA OYJ, R&D, Helsinki, Finland

The aim of the study was to measure the effect of feeding of crimped corngrain with high moisture (DM 70%) vs. dry one on the rumenfermentation, energy, protein and acid-base metabolism, health status,reproductive performance, daily milk production and milk compositionof high producing dairy cows. Kemisile 2S was used as preservative atcrimping with 4.2 kg/t. The experiment was carried out at a dairy farmwith 1000 head of Holstein Friesian cows. Two hundred in calf secondand third parity Holstein Friesian cows were selected randomly tocontrol and experimental groups, 3 weeks prior to expected parturition.Rumen fluid, blood and urine samples were taken for laboratoryexaminations once a week in the first month and once a month onwardsthe experiment for four times. The corn silage based diet was identical forboth groups except for the control animals received dry and the

experimental cows crimped corn. The total concentration of volatile fattyacids in rumen fluid of the experimental cows was superior to thecontrols by 12.1% on average. The acetate ratio of the experimentalcows was superior to the controls by 13.4% on average (p<0.001). Theglucose concentration in the blood samples was higher in theexperimental cows than in the controls by 5.7% on average. The aceto-acetic acid concentration in blood samples of the experimental cows wasinferior to the controls by 46.8% on average (p<0.05). The NEFAconcentration of blood samples in the experimental cows was inferior tothe controls by 22.4% on average. The occurrence rate ofhyperketonaemia and subclinical fat mobilization syndrome was less inthe experimental cows by 16% and 5%, respectively. The BCS loss wasless in the experimental cows than in the controls by 0.4 score. The timefor calving to first heat, to first AI and to conception was shorter in theexperimental cows by 1.6, 6.6 and 4.4 days, respectively. The daily milkyield of the experimental cows exceeded the control’s milk productionby 4.33 kg on average (p<0.001). Conclusions can be drawn asfollowing: more favourable rumen fermentation, more balanced energyand protein metabolism, better health status, higher daily milk yield,higher milk protein concentration, better reproductive performance canbe achieved by feeding of crimped corn instead of dry one. Key words: crimped corn, dairy cow, rumen fermentation, health, milkproduction

162 Effect of Fresh Alfalfa Feeding on Blood Ammonia in DairyCows

T. Gaal1, P. Ribiczey1, R. Karcagi2, F. Husveth2

1 Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department ofInternal Medicine, Budapest, Hungary

2 Georgikon Faculty of Agriculture, University of Pannonia,Department of Animal Science, Budapest, Hungary

Blood ammonia concentration in ruminants is <60 µmol/L, whichincreases following high nitrogen intake. To prevent ammonia toxicosissupplementation of the ration with fresh legumes or urea is not used indairy cows. The minimum toxic concentration of ammonia causingclinical signs is not well defined. The aim of this study was to evaluateblood ammonia level in dairy cows having been fed a daily ration of 2-5kg fresh-cut alfalfa. On a herd of 250 Holstein-Friesian dairy cows theanimals were fed on a corn silage based diet. Close-up cows weresupplemented with grass hay and corn grain while cows after calvingreceived corn grain, alfalfa silage and alfalfa hay. To increase the proteinintake the farmer decided to add 5-7 kg/day/cow freshly-cut alfalfa to thediet of cows from the 8th week after calving. Blood metabolic profile wasmade before introducing this bad practice (pre-alfalfa results) at the herdand it was repeated after 10 days of alfalfa supplementation in 19 high-producing cows (post-alfalfa results). Blood ammonia was measured byBlood Ammonia Checker (BAC) instrument while other bloodparameters were analyzed by commercial test kits on an automaticchemistry analyzer. Adding fresh-cut alfalfa had no clinical consequencesand did not influence the milk production. Pre-alfalfa blood ammonialevel was 40 +13 µmol/L. Post-alfalfa ammonia was immeasurable onBAC in 5 of 19 cows (BAC has an upper cut-off point of 236 µmol (400µg) /dL ammonia. Mean post-alfalfa ammonia (including these 5 cows’result as 236 µmol/L) showed a 5-fold increase (201 ±19 µmol/L,p<0.001). As we supposed an analytical error, 5-5 blood samples of dryand fresh cows not fed with alfalfa were evaluated by BAC. Ammoniaconcentrations in these samples were lower than 50 µmol/L.Pre-alfalfaplasma urea concentration (BUN) was 5.4±2.3 mmol/L, while post-alfalfaBUN nearly doubled (10.4±3.0 µmol/L, p<0.001). Other metabolicparameters did not show significant changes. The post-alfalfa blood ammonia concentration was extremely highcompared to the 60 µmol/L upper reference limit and was reflected inelevated BUN. Previously we found such a high ammonia level inammonia toxicosis. In this case, however, neither the behaviour nor themilk production of cows had any significant changes. Probably the upperreference limit of blood ammonia in healthy cows ought to be re-evaluated.Key words: blood ammonia, urea, alfalfa-feeding, reference value

163 A New Bale-forming Technology: Higher Density andFermentation Quality in Alfalfa Silage for Ruminants

Sz. Orosz1, Z. Bellus2, S. Kapás1

1 Szent István University Faculty of Agricultural and EnvironmentalSciences, Department of Animal Nutrition, Gödöllô, Hungary




2 Hungarian Institute of Agricultural Engineering, R&D, Gödöllô,Hungary

of study: The authors investigated a new bale-forming system: drymatter limitation of the new technology and effect of short (29%DM: 4 hour) and long term wilting (52% DM: 12 hour) on baleparameters and fermentation profile in new-type alfalfa bales.Materials and methods: Alfalfa was mowed with theoretical chopsize of 20-30 mm. Baling was carried out by a Göweil LT Mastervariable chamber baler-wrapper machine. Pressurization: 150 bar.Output: 18-20 bales hour-1 for alfalfa. Film for wrapping was appliedwith thickness of 25 µm in 7 layers, respectively. The pH, lactic andvolatile fatty acid composition were analysed on the 13th, 30th and 70th

day of fermentation according to the Hungarian National Standards(Hungarian Feed Codex, 2004). Results: Extremely high density was carried out with the newtechnology: 213-278 DM kg m-3 due to high pressurization (150 bar)and small particle size (20-30 mm) compared to conventional bales(90-200 DM kg m-3) (Table 1). Better homogeneity of the new-typebales compared to the conventional bales, owing to chopped andmixed forage, was confirmed by the low variation in wet bale weight(var. coeff. 1.4%). High density results extremely good anaerobecircumstances for fermentation (Table 2). It was found higher pH,lactic acid content and lower acetic acid content in bales with 52%DM-content.

Conclusions: It was confirmed that the new baling system is able toform bales in a wide range of dry matter content (290-520 g kg-1 inalfalfa) with high density and excellent fermentation profile.Key words: bale-forming technology, high density, fermentationquality, alfalfa silage

164 Periparturient Risk Assessments for Placenta Retention inDairy Cows

L. Könyves1, O. Szenci2, V. Jurkovich1, L. Mrs. Tegzes1,A. Tirián1, N. Solymosi3, Gy. Gyulay4, E. Brydl11

Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Veterinary Ethology,Budapest, Hungary

2Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Clinic forLarge Animals, Budapest, Hungary

3Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Biomathematics, Budapest, Hungary

4Private practitioner, Martonvásár, Hungary

The aim of the study: was to measure how the metabolic parametersof energy and acid-base metabolism indicate the risk of placentaretention (PR) in dairy cows. The relationship between animal- andenvironment related factors and PR, the consequences of PR forsubsequent puerperal endometritis (PM), metabolic status, milkproduction and reproduction were analysed as well.

Materials and methods: 105 clinically healthy Holstein Frisean cowswere assigned randomly at 21-14 days before expected calving. Blood andurine samples were taken for metabolic profile test on <-14 prepartum, +4, 10-14, 28-35, 56-63 and 84-91st day pp. Blood acetoacetic acid, bloodplasma non esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and glucose concentration,aspartate-amino-transferase enzyme activity, urine pH and net acid baseexcretion (NABE) concentration and urine ketone concentration weredetermined. Parallel with metabolic tests from the 4th day postpartum themetritis was monitored by clinical examinations. From the 28-35th daysthe ovarian cycle was examined by ultrasound. The indices of calving,clinical examinations, sex and vitality of calves, data of milk productionand reproduction were recorded. Results: In the <-14 days prepartum the plasma NEFA concentrationshown a positive (OR 102.1; P<0.05), and the urine NABE concentrationshown a negative (OR 0.99; P<0.05) correlation with PR. There was anegative correlation between NEFA and NABE in the same period(Person‘ corr: -0.24; P<0.05). The level of 2+ prepartum ketonuriaincreased the risk of PR (OR: Inf.; P<0.05). There was not relationshipbetween the parity, sex and vitality of calves, manual assistance forcalving and PR. The PR increased the risk of pueperal metritis (OR: 27.3;P<0,0001). The subsequent metabolic status, milk production andreproductive performance were not affected significantly by PR.Conclusions: The plasma NEFA and urine NABE concentrationsand the >2+ urinary ketone positivity measured in <-14 daysprepartum indicates the higher risk of placenta retention in dairycows. The placenta retention indicates the relevant risk of thepuerperal metritis.Key words: risk factors, retained placenta, energy balance, acid-basemetabolism, dairy cow, reproduction, milk production

165 The Effect of Micro-capsulated Yeast Supplementation onRumen Fermentation in Sheep Fed with High-energy Diet

V. Jurkovich1, J. Kutasi2, H. Fébel3, L. Könyves1,A. Tirián1, E. Brydl11

Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Budapest,Hungary

2Dr. Bata Ltd, Ócsa, Hungary

3Research Institution of Animal Breeding and Nutrition,Herceghalom, Hungary

The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of trehaloseproducing yeast supplementation on the rumen fermentation of sheepfed with a diet rich in wheat and barley. Trehalose producing yeaststrains are supposedly more viable in the rumen than trehalose non-producing strains. A self controlled study was carried out using 3,rumen canullated merino wethers. In the first experimental phase (A)the sheep received trehalose producing yeast (Live-Sacc Dairy), in thesecond experimental phase (B) the animals received trehalose non-producing yeast supplementation (Live-Sacc) mixed in the ration. Thethird experimental phase (C), without supplementation, served ascontrol. Rumen fluid samples were taken before and after the morningfeeding. Rumen pH, ammonia and VFA concentrations were measured.DM, NDF and starch degradation rates were also determined.Statistical analysis has not been carried out at the time of the abstract,thus significance of the following findings can not be stated. Rumen pHdecreased in all groups after feeding (as expected) and no considerabledifference was found between them. TVFA, acetate, propionate andbutyrate concentrations increased after feeding, and considerabledifference was found between groups. All VFA concentrations werethe highest in Phase A. Ammonia concentrations remained unchangedin all phases. Degradability of dry matter showed no significantdifference between Phase A and C, but it was considerably lower inPhase B. Degradability of NDF and starch was highest in the animalstreated with Live-Sacc Dairy. The preliminary results demonstratedthat trehalose producing yeast strain supplementation considerablymodifies rumen fermentation parameters.This study was financially supported by National Office for Researchand Technology (grant no.: OMFB-1213/2004)Key words: sheep, yeast, rumen fermentation

232 The Effect of Feeding of Micro Capsulated ViableYeast onRumen Fermentation, Health and Milk Production of DairyCows

E. Brydl1, A. Tirián1, L. Könyves1, V. Jurkovich1,L. Tegzes1, L. Horváth2, M. Török2, Zs. Szabó2, J. Kutasi3

Table 1. Bale characteristics in alfalfa baled with the new baler system(n=15)

29% DM 52 % DM

Bale wet weight (kg) 904±25,1a 657±13,0b

Bale dry weight (kg DM) 262±7,3a 342±6,6b

Wet density (kg m-3) 734±10,3a 534±7,9b

Dry density (kg m-3) 213±3,0a 278±4,1b

Table 2. Fermentation characteristics in alfalfa baled with the newbaler system (n=5)

Day of Treat- pH Total Lactic Acetic Butyricfermen- ment acid acid acid acid

g kg-1 g kg-1 g kg-1 g kg-1

13th day 29% DM 4,84a 28,9a 21,3a 7,6a 0,0a

52 % DM 4,87a 30,0a 24,4a 5,5b 0,0a

30th day 29% DM 4,60a 34,8a 26,9a 7,8a 0,0a

52 % DM 4,79b 37,6b 30,8b 6,7a 0,0a

70th day 29% DM 4,49a 32,9a 25,2a 7,6a 0,2b

52 % DM 4,74b 35,1a 28,2v 6,8a 0,1a




1Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Animal Hygene, Herd-health and Veterinary Ethology, Budapest,Hungary

2Gorzsa Agricultural Co, Dairy Farm, Hódmezôvásárhely, Hungary

3Dr. BATA Biotechnological Co, Research & Development, Ócsa,Hungary

The aim of the study was to measure the effect of feeding of microcapsulated viable yeast on the rumen fermentation, health and milkproduction of diary cows. The experiment was carried out at a large scaledairy farm in Hungary between February and August 2007. The milkproduction of the cows was nearly 10 000 l yearly. Two hundred in calfsecond and third parity Holstein Friesian cows were selected randomly tocontrol (No Yeast Received, NYR) and experimental (Micro capsulatedViable Yeast) groups, 3 weeks prior to expected parturition. Rumen fluid,blood and urine samples were taken for laboratory examinations once aweek in the first month and once month onwards the experiment six times.The total concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) was normal in bothgroups however in the experimental cows it was higher by 4.4% and therumen fluid pH was more stabile. Lower concentration of NEFA, BHBand urea concentration was found in the experimental cows one monthafter parturition indicating more balanced energy metabolism and betterhealth. The average daily milk production was higher by 0.6 l and the daysspent for different diseases e.g. mastitis, lameness etc. was less by 33 d inthe experimental group. The reproductive indices were more favourable inthe experimental animals than in the controls. This work was supported bythe project of GAK ALAP1-00003/204.Key words: micro capsulated, viable yeast, dairy cow, rumenfermentation, health, milk production

233 Subacute Rumen Acidosis in Intensive Italian Dairy Herds:Occurrence and Clinical Approach

M. Gianesella1, C. Stelletta1, C. Cannizzo1,P. De Battisti2, M. Morgante11

Universita’ Degli Studi di Padova, Dipartimento di Scienze ClinicheVeterinarie, Legnaro (Pd), Italy

2Cortal Extrasoy S.P.A., Cittadella (Pd), Italy

Subacute rumen acidosis (SARA) represents one of the mostimportant metabolic disorders in intensive dairy farms that affectsrumen fermentations, animal welfare, productivity and profitability.The aim of the present study was to study the occurrence of SARA inintensive Italian dairy herds and to determine the correct clinicalapproach to evaluat this disease. During the last four years fortycommercial dairy herds were investigated. In each farm a generalinvestigation was performed, with particular attention to herdmanagement and presence of typical clinical signs of SARA. Twelvecows in good body condition, between 5 and 60 day in milk andwithout clinical signs of disease were selected randomly from eachherd, to perform rumenocentesis and obtain rumen fluid. Ruminal pHwas determined immediately after sampling and concentration ofSCFA in ruminal fluid was determined on samples after storage.Comparisons between TMR after distribution and residual food werebe evaluated by sieving and by chemical composition. Milk yieldquality was determined in the cows were we performed therumenocentesis. Results were subject to ANOVA and correlationanalysis using SIGMA STAT 2.03. We had no sampling problemswith the 480 cows of our study series, and no animal developed anyhealth problem during or after the procedure. The results indicated thepresence of SARA in 40% of herds (more than 33% cows with rumenpH < 5.5), a critical situation (more than 33% cows with rumen pH <5.8) in 25.7% of farms and a normal rumen pH condition in 34.3% ofherds. In particular dairy herds show an average SCFA concentrationof 162, 147 and 121 mmol/L for low pH, critical pH and normal pHherds, respectively. The differences among diet composition were notsignificant even if herds with SARA showed a light discordancebetween initial composition and residual feed, a result which suggestsmore attention in TMR preparation and management, especially inlarge herds where the attitude of the personnel responsible for feedingthe cows is of paramount importance. Milk yield quality were notstatistical different in three groups: in particular dairy herds show anaverage of 3.8, 3.6 and 3.5 of milk-fat % for low pH, critical pH andnormal pH herds, respectively, and the same values (3.3) of milkprotein %. Although ruminal pH is reported to drop in experimentalsituations of inducing low milk-fat, this alone does not justify thosesituations to be characterized as being SARA.

234 Measuring Rumen pH and Temperature by an Indwellingand Wireless Data Transmitting Unit – Application underDifferent Feeding Conditions

J. Gasteiner1, S. Rosenkranz2, M. Fallast2, T. Guggenberger11

Federal Research Institute Raumberg-Gumpenstein, Animal Careand Animal Health, Irdning, A-8952, Austria

2University of Technology Graz, Sciencepark, Graz, Austria

Subacute rumen acidosis is a common and economically importantherd health problem of dairy cattle and there is a crucial need formonitoring systems.An indwelling wireless data transfer system for monitoring rumen phand temperature was assembled. Readings (user selectable) were takenevery 30 minutes. Stored data are transmitted using a radio transceivercommunicating with the ISM-band frequency 433 MHz. The system iscontrolled by a microprocessor. Data (pH, temperature) are sampledwith an A/D converter and stored in an external memory chip. Thelatest class of the indwelling system can be administered orally, but toservice the measuring units, experiments were conducted using 5ruminally cannulated steers.After calibrating and check for proper operation rumen pH undtemperature measures were carried out under following feedingconditions: 1. 100 % roughage for 1 week, measuring last 3 days 2.Daily pasture and roughage ad lib. for 3 weeks, measuring last 7 days3. 50:50 roughage: concentrate for 7 days, measuring 7 daysIn experiment 3, 2 measuring units were placed simultaneous in oneanimal to compare and to verify data. At the same time, rumen sampleswere taken at intervals (1hour) and pH was detected with a pH meter.Statistical analysis was conducted using GLM (Statgraphic Plus 5.1) andBonferroni-Holm-Test.Experiment 1: rumen temperature (mean 38.40±0.70 °C) was influencedsignificantly by drinking water but it is not connected with feeding time.Mean pH was 6.49±0.39 and nadir was pH 6,14. Experiment 2: meanrumen temperature was 38.12±0.80 °C and mean pH was 6.36±0.22.Nadir during pasture (day) was pH 5.34, nadir during feeding roughage(night) was 6.16. Pasture had a significant influence on rumen pH.Experiment 3: mean rumen temperature was 38.55±0.83 °C and mean pHwas 6.37±0.24. Nadir was pH 5.29. Decline of rumen pH wassignificantly related to the feeding of concentrate. When comparing theresults of 2 simultaneous measuring units, the absolute statistical errorwas 0.6±0.65 °C for temperature and 0.15±0.19 for pH, differences couldbe seen due to rumen dynamics and non-homogenous mixture of ingesta.Results indicate that the present method is a useful tool for scientificapplications. As the measuring system can also be administered touninjured cattle, an adapted rumen pH measuring system will also beassembled for practical purposes in future. Examinations were carriedout in compliance with the National Animal Experiment Law(Tierversuchsgesetz 1988)

235 Blood and Ruminal Biochemical Modifications and ClinicalSigns after 1 and 2 % Body Weight Intoxication with SoybeanMeal in Dairy Steers

D. Raboisson, A. Ferrieres, F. Enjalbert, F. Schelcher National Veterinary School of Toulouse, Department for FarmAnimals and Herd Health, Toulouse, France

Effects of massive ingestion of rapidly fermentable carbohydrate diets oncattle are well known, but no data are available on massive ingestion ofsoybean meal. The aim of the trial is to describe the clinical signs and theruminal and blood biochemical modifications of bulls receiving an largequantity of soybean meal. In two successive trials (8 weeks apart),soybean meal (46% crude protein) was introduced via the canula in therumen of four Holstein steers, respectively at 1% (3,5 to 3,7 kg) and 2%body weight (7,8 to 8,3 kg). Clinical examination, ruminal and bloodbiochemical analysis were performed every two hours for 4 days.Measured parameters were blood pH, PCO2 and HCO3

- (Opti-CCA,Idex), blood NH3 (Vitros 250, Ortho Clinical Disgnostic), ruminal pH(pH-meter), ruminal volatile fatty acids (VFA) (gas chromatography)and ruminal N-NH3 (spectrophotometry). In the 2% study, ruminal pHfirstly decreased to 5,67 ± 0,15 at H4 (4 hours after soybean mealingestion), in parallel to an increase of VFA concentrations and amoderate and stable concentration of N-NH3 between H4 and H12. Thenruminal pH increased slowly to basal level (pH= 6,47 ± 0,18) up to H20(VFA decreased and N-NH3 increased from H12 to H26). Ruminal pHfinally increased slightly up to H32 and returned to basal level. Blood pH




and plasma HCO3- increased from H4 to H40 and then decrease to basal

level until H80. Blood NH3 concentration peak (H20 : 378,2 ± 103,3µmol/L) was detected a few hours after blood pH peak (H12). Uremiapeaked at H26. Hyperammoniemia was associated with an hyper-glycemia (H24). Clinical signs (moderate muscle tremors, head shaking,stamping, weackness and moderate prostration) occurred in the 2% trialbetween 12 and 28 hours after soybean meal ingestion. Clinical signswere detected during hyperamoniemia, suggesting causual relationshipbetween symptoms and blood NH3 concentration. Similar but lessdemonstrative biochemical modifications occured with 1% soybean mealingestion, but no clinical sign was detected. Clinical signs and majorbiochemical modifications occured only with ingestion of largequantities of soybean meal, but spontaneous ingestion of such a quantityby cows is unlikely.

236 The Effect of Rumen Mucosal Lesions on Growth in SouthAfrican Feedlot Cattle

P. Thompson1, W. Schultheiss2, A. Hentzen31

University of Pretoria, Production Animal Studies, Onderstepoort,South Africa

2Schering-Plough Animal Health, Johannesburg, South Africa

3Supreme Livestock Services, Heidelberg, South Africa

Rumen health is well recognized as a primary necessity for bovinehealth and if compromised it will negatively affect performance. It is atrisk when abrupt transition to a more energy dense ration takes placeearly on in the beef feedlot feeding period. This is also the time whenmost cases of undifferentiated bovine respiratory disease (UBRD)occur. Excessive pH fluctuations may cause subclinical or clinicalacidosis and result in permanent damage to the rumen mucosa.Although such lesions are commonly seen in apparently healthy cattleat slaughter, there are no reports of their effect on the performance offeedlot cattle. The rumen mucosa of 1935 cattle was examined at slaughter,representing 15 groups from five feedlots. The presence and size of focalmucosal scarring (“stars”) and diffuse mucosal lesions were recorded. Lunglesion scoring was also done on most animals. Live mass on arrival at thefeedlot and average daily gain (ADG) during the feeding period wereobtained for each animal. The effects of rumen mucosal lesions on ADGwere then estimated using mixed-effects multiple regression models.Stars were recorded in 50.9% (varied from 3.3% to 72.3% between groups)and diffuse lesions in 56.1% (5.5% to 93.6%) of all animals. Pulmonarylesions were seen in 52.3% (32.3% to 77.1%) and severe pneumonia (lungparenchymal or pleural adhesion score >2) in 13,6% (4.8% to 33.9%) of allanimals. Mean ADG was 1.406 kg (1.176 to 2.070 kg). When adjusted forprocessing mass, sex, feedlot and group, calves with rumen stars showed anaverage reduction in ADG of 46 g (P < 0.001). The presence of a diffusemucosal lesion was associated with a 60 g reduction in ADG (P < 0.001).Calves with both lesion types showed a 79 g reduction in ADG (P < 0.001).However, the effect of each of the rumen lesions on ADG varied betweengroups. In one group of 185 animals, the presence of rumen stars waspositively associated with the presence of severe pneumonia (odds ratio =4.9; P = 0.03). This information is important for feedlot managers,supporting the fact that transition from adaptation to grower or finisherrations should be made with care. Efforts should be made to limit pHfluctuations which may cause permanent damage to the rumen mucosathat will increase days on feed to attain the desired end mass. Routineinspection of rumen mucosa at the abattoir may be also considered as atool to monitor nutritional management in the feedlot.Key words: rumen mucosal lesions, pneumonia, feedlot cattle, growth

237 Case Report of Iodine Deficiency in an Organic Dairy Farm

I. Schlemmer1, M. Metzner1, S. Reese2, U. Ebert3, W. Klee1

1 University Munich, Clinic for Ruminants, Munich, Germany2 University of Munich, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Munich,

Germany3 Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, veterinary pathology,

Munich, Germany

In an organic dairy farm with 40 Holstein-Friesian cows and offspringin Bavaria the farmer described tumours in the region near the larynxin five of 15 calves (up to the age of six months). Additionally thegrowth fell behind and the calves showed increased incidence ofpulmonary diseases. In September 2006, three calves were sent to theClinic for Ruminants for examination. Later the farm was visited. Thegeneral condition of several animals of the age of 1 day to 6 months

was poor, the animals were emaciated, their development was reducedand their respiratory rate severely increased. Blood samples weretaken from animals of different age groups for examination ofglutathione-peroxidase activity (GSH-Px), thyroxin (T4) and selenium(Se) concentrations. 3 animals admitted to the clinic showed poorgeneral condition, emaciation and severe pathological lung findings.Two of the calves had visible and palpable masses at the ventral aspectof the larynx. A main finding in blood examination was very lowGSH-Px (12 – 42 U/g Hb). These animals were euthanized andsubmitted to post-mortem examination. All three animals had massesin the area of the larynx in size of 7-15 cm in diameter. Additionally,the animals had severe bronchopneumonia, and one animal also hadfibrinous pleuritis. Histological findings included hypertrophy andhyperplasia with hyperaemia of the thyroid gland. The bacteriologicalfindings were Pasteurella multocida in the lungs of two of the animalsand BRSV-antigen in one animal. On the farm, nine calves hadpalpable masses in the area of the larynx of up to 10 cm in size. T4levels were very low in three out of nine animals (< 0.5 µg/l) and theGPX was below 8 U/gHb in all animals examined. Analysis of thegrass silage, fed ad libitum, yielded an iodine concentration of 0.29mg/kg. Mineral feed was offered to the animals; however, it did notcontain any Se or iodine. Another one day old calf with goitre, Se-deficiency and bronchopneumonia was treated in the clinic withpotassium iodide, selenium, vitamin E and antibiotics. After 4.5months the calf had recovered and was discharged. It was concludedthat the farm had an iodine deficiency problem, with clinical signs ofgoitre, Se- deficiency and bronchopneumonia. There are norestrictions for mineral supplements in commandments for organicfarms, especially for selenium or iodine. In regions with iodineand Se- deficiency in the soils there should be a special attention tomineral supplements.

238 Dynamics of Bone Metabolism in High Pregnant Heifers andFirst Lactation Cows

J. Staric, M. Nemec, J. Jezek, M. Klinkon, T. Zadnik UL, Veterinary faculty, Clinic for Ruminants, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Bone metabolism can be assessed by using biochemical markers ofbone metabolism. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism aredegradation products, by products of formation and enzymes involvedin bone degradation or formation. They indicate whether bone isforming, degrading or remodelling more intensively. 88 late pregnantHF heifers and first lactation cows in different physiological periods, 1month before calving, up to 10 days before calving, within 48 hoursafter calving, 10 to 20 days in milk and at the peak of lactation wereinvolved in the study. The study was performed during winter, when allanimals were housed. Venous blood samples for measurement of bonespecific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), C-terminal telopeptide cross-links of collagen I (CTx) and total calcium (tCa) were taken accordingto the protocol. Mean serum tCa has the lowest value in a group within48 hours after calving, 2,12 ± 0,09 mmol/L and highest during the peaklactation, 2,56 ± 0,13 mmol/L. Interestingly the mean BALP has thehighest value in a group within 48 hours after calving, 37,8 ± 7,9 U/Land the lowest value during the peak lactation, 22,3 ± 4,53 U/L. Thehighest mean CTx value was measured in group of cows 10 to 20 daysafter calving, 1,152 ± 0,292 ng/L and the lowest in heifers up to 10 daysbefore calving, 0,513 ± 0,197 ng/L. All mentioned differences werealso statistically significant at p<0,05. Despite Ca shortage in postparturient time, bone formation marker BALP has the highest valueswhich indicate that there could be a strong involvement of hormonesassociated with calving and that low blood calcium does not lower boneformation at that time, which we expected. Bone degradation is mostintensive between 10th and 20th day of lactation in this study, whatcould be associated with increasing milk production and demand forcalcium which is supplied by bone tissue. Bone tissue is predominantlyforming during last 10 days of pregnancy. Most probable reason forthis is building up of Ca reserve for lactation.Key words: Bone turnover, BALP, CTx, cattle, blood

281 Change in Hepatocellular Phosphorus Content during theTransition Period in Dairy Cows

W. Gruenberg1, R. Staufenbiel2, P. Constable1, H. Dann3,J. Drackley41

Purdue University, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, West Lafayette,United States




2Freie Universität Berlin, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Berlin,Germany

3Miner Agricultural Research Institute, Chazy, United States

4University of Illinois, animal sciences, Urbana - Champaign, UnitedStates

Hypophosphatemia and disturbed liver function are common findingsin dairy cows during early lactation. Low serum phosphorus (P)concentrations have been associated with altered liver function anddecreased regenerative capacity of the liver. To our knowledge,neither the liver P content nor the relationship between serum Pconcentration ([P]) and liver P content have been studied inperiparturient dairy cows. We therefore investigated the changein hepatocellular P content in dairy cows from late gestation to earlylactation. Liver biopsy samples of 6 dairy cows were obtained at -65,-30, -14, +1, +14, +28 and +49 days relative to calving. Amounts ofP, potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) in liver were determined usinginductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and expressed asmg/g or µg/g liver dry weight. The amount of DNA in the biopsysample was determined in order to explore the potential confoundingeffect of changes in cell volume on liver P content. Serum [P] wasmeasured at -50, -36, -14, +1, +14, +28 and +49 d relative to calving.The amount of P in wet weight liver (PW), non fat wet weight(PNFW) liver, and per cell (indexed to DNA; PDNA) was calculated;similar values were calculated for K and Mg. Repeated measuresANOVA was used to identify changes in measured and calculatedvalues over time. Liver P decreased significantly from 12.4±1.1 mg/gat -14d to 8.2±1.4 mg/g at +14d, increasing thereafter to 11.7±1.5mg/g at +49 d. Similar changes in dry weight liver were observed forMg and K. PW and PDNA showed the same pattern of change overtime with similar trends for the Mg and K content in wet liver tissueas well as indexed to DNA. In contrast, the amounts of K and Mg innon fat wet tissue remained constant over time whereas a significantdecline of PNFW at +14d was determined. Serum [P] tended toincrease from calving to +14d and did not reflect changes in liver Pcontent over time. Our findings indicate that time-dependent changesof the electrolyte contents in dry liver weight are largely due tochanges in hepatic water and fat content. As indicated by the P, Mgand K content in non-fat wet liver weight, the cytosolicconcentrations of Mg and K were stable throughout the study periodwhereas the cytosolic P concentration significantly declined at +14 d.Our findings further indicate that serum [P] cannot be used toestimate liver P content.

282 Effect of Vitamin D on the Bone Metabolism of Dairy Cattlewith Hypophosphatemia

JT. Wang, JL. Li, SW. Xu, FQ. Shi Northeast Agricultural University, College of Veterinary Medicine,Harbin, China

The morbidity of mineral metabolic obstacle in cows was very high inDaqing and Anda regions in China, especially in some areas of Anda inwhich most areas belonged to alkaline soil which was composed ofhigh content of NaHCO3. There was 5mg/kg available phosphorus insoil roughly. Dairy cattle in these areas were found to havehypophosphatemia with detecting the content of phosphorus in serum,and they showed dyskinesia and low productive ability for long time.The aim of this study was to find out the method which prevented andcured dairy cattle with hypophosphatemia, and illuminated the effect ofvitamin D on the bone metabolism of cows with hypophosphstemia. 30cows with obvious clinical symptoms which were hypophosphatemia,dyskinesia was assigned randomly. 10 cows as control feed low phosp-horus grass (p<0.15%), 10 cows as group 1: feed high phosphorus grass(p>0.2%), 10 cows as group 2: feed high phosphorus grass (p>0.2%),and got vitamin D3 (2.5x106IU, weekly) by intramuscular injection andone capsule of vitamin D3 (10mg/500kg, daily) by oral. Blood samples(serum) were withdrawn on 1d, 30d, 60d, 90d and 120d. The content ofvitamin D (including vitamin D, 25-OH-D, 1,25-(OH)2-D), calcium-phosphorus- CT and BGP in the serum of group 2 were higher, andAPK activity was lower than control and group 1. However, these itemsare near between control and group 1: the content of serum protein,GOP and GPT activity in serum had no difference in three groups.After 120 days the clinical symptom of 10 cows in group 2 wasobviously slight, 10 cows in group 1 were better than control. Theseresults clearly demonstrated that the content of calcium-phosphorus-CT, BGP, vitamin D3 and its metabolism activity in serum of the cowswith hypophosphstemia were changed obviously with adding vitamin

D and high phosphorus grass. With enhanced the content of calcium,phosphorus, CT and BGP in serum, vitamin D could effect the bonemetabolism of dairy cattle with hypophosphstemia, and preventeddairy cattle hypophosphatemiaKey words: cows, hypophosphstemia, vitaman D, bone metabolism

283 Changes T3 and T4 Plasma Concentrations in Dairy Cowsduring Lactation

K. Sinka, J. Illek, D. Kumprechtova, P. Novak Veterinary and Pharmaceutical University Brno, Clinic of RuminantDiseases, Brno, Czech Republic, Czech Republic

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine plasmaconcentrations of T3 and T4 hormones in dairy cows in preparturientperiod (20 to 10 days prepartum), in early lactation (15 to 20 days inmilk -DIM), peak lactation (60 to 80 DIM), and late lactation (220 to250 DIM).Material and methods: The study was performed in a Holstein herdwith average milk yield of 10,650 kg per 305 day lactation. Cowswere housed loose in pens and fed total mixed ration consisting ofmaize silage, clover-grass silage, meadow hey, straw andconcentrate. Proportions of TMR components and nutrient contentsreflected the lactation phases and were in accordance with standardrecommendations. Selected cows from different phases of calving to calving interval werewithdrawn blood from the coccygeal vein, using the HEMOS tubeswith heparin. Group A: late pregnancy cows (10-20 days prepartum),Group B: early lactation (15- 20 days prepartum), Group C: peaklactation (60-80 DIM), Group D: late lactation (220-250 DIM). In eachgroup 10 cows without clinical disease signs and in optimum bodycondition were monitored. Hormones T3 and T4 were measured bychemiluminiscence, using the automatic analyzer IMMULITE 1000.Results were statistically evaluated.Results: The late pregnancy cows (A) showed the lowest T3concentrations and the highest T4 concentrations. In early lactation therewas a significant decrease in T4 and non-significant increase in T3. Inpeak lactation, T4 levels were still low but non-significantly higher than inthe early lactation. In late lactation there was a significant increase in T4and significant decrease in T3. The late lactation values were similar tothose measured in late pregnancy cows.

Conclusion: Plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones werechanging throughout the calving to calving interval. In the earlylactation there was a significant drop in T4 concentrations, remainedlow in peak lactation, and increased in late lactation only. T3concentrations were significantly higher in early and peak lactationthan the initial values. In late lactation, T3 concentrations weregradually decreasing and approached the values measured in latepregnancy cows.The study was carried out within the project NAZV no. 1B44035

284 Predictive Value of Serum Biochemical Analysis onTreatment Outcome in 72 Recumbent Cows

J. Berchtold1, H. Maier2, P. Constable3

1 Tierärztliche Praxis Haiming, Obing, Germany2 Synlab.Vet., Augsburg, Germany3 Purdue University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of

Veterinary Clinical Sciences, West Lafayette, United States

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine thepredictive value of serum biochemical analysis on treatment outcomein recumbent cows.

Table 1. T3 and T4 plasma concentrations (nmol/l)

Group A B C DT3 T4 T3 T4 T3 T4 T3 T4

X 1.71 74.64 1.93 36.9 1.95 43.96 1.77 63.96S.D. 0,179 8,562 0,183 3,157 0,135 7,096 0,095 7,592C.V. 0,105 0,115 0,095 0,086 0,069 0,161 0,054 0,119T-test A-B A-B B-C B-C C-D C-D

** *** N.S. ** *** ***(P<= (P<= (P<= (P<= (P<=0.01) 0.001) 0.01) 0.001) 0.001




Materials and Methods: Serum samples from recumbent cattle wereselected from samples submitted to a laboratory in Germany foranalysis. A questionnaire was completed in order to obtain data on theduration of recumbency, time of sampling, breed, and treatmentoutcome. Serum concentrations of Ca, Phosphorus, Mg, Na, K, totalbilirubin, urea, and total protein were measured, and serum activities ofAST, CK, and GLDH were determined. Analysis of variance was usedto compare serum values of cows that did not recover and weresampled before (group NR1) and after (group NR2) their first treatmentfor recumbency, and recovered cows that were sampled before (groupR1) and after (group R2) their first treatment, respectively. Non-normally distributed variables were log transformed before analysisand P <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Serum was analyzed from 72 cows aged 3 to 12 years, with51 (70%) of cows recovering. Breeds included 45 Fleckvieh, 6Holstein, 19 Braunvieh, 2 Red-Pied, and one mixed. Serum wasobtained before treatment in 38 cows (groups R1, NR1) and after oneor several treatments in 34 cases (groups R2, NR2). Duration ofrecumbency when serum was obtained was <1 day in 41 cows. GroupNR2 cows had significantly higher geometric mean serum activitiesfor AST (718 U/L, range 162 to 2,616) and CK (10,025 U/L, range184 to 62,952), compared to cows in group NR1 (AST, 293 U/L; CK,2,443 U/L), group R1 (AST, 184 U/L; CK, 1,138 U/L), and group R2(AST, 228 U/L; CK, 1,754 U/L). Serum calcium concentration waslower in group R1 cows than group R2 and NR2 cows, but wassimilar to cows in group NR1. Overall mean serum potassiumconcentrations were lower in Holstein (3.4+0.5 mmol/L) than inFleckvieh (4.6+0.8 mmol/L) or Braunvieh (4.2+0.2 mmol/L) cows.Other serum parameters did not differ between the 4 groups andbetween breeds.Conclusions: Higher serum activities for AST and CK in cows notrecovering from recumbency indicate the development of muscledamage secondary to recumbency, with high serum AST and CKactivities being associated with a poor prognosis. Our results suggestthat potassium supplementation should be routinely performed inlactating recumbent Holstein cows because they have a lowerpotassium concentration than recumbent Fleckvieh and Braunviehcows.Key words: recumbency, serum biochemistry, muscle damage,hypokalemia

285 Abnormal Dynamic Changes of Plasma Leptin are Associatedwith the Occurrence of Sub-clinical Ketosis in Dairy Cowsaround Parturitions

B. He, J. Huang, T. Hu, Y. Liao, Y. Du, J. Ma, G. Li GuangXi University, College of Animal Science and Technology,Nanning, Guangxi, China, China

In order to understand the link between leptin and ketosis in Holsteincows around calving, The 16 Holstein cows around parturitions werechosen randomly from a dairy farm in Nanning area, their bloodsamples were collected within Days 10 prepartum and at Days0,1,2,7,14,21,28,35,42,49,56 postpartum. The concentrations ofleptin, ketone bodies, glucose and lipids in the blood plasma wereanalyzed. Then the examined cows, according to diagnostic criteria ofketosis, were divided into two groups, i.e. the cows with subclinicalketosis (SK) and the cows without subclinical ketosis (nSK). Theconcentration and dynamic change characteristics of each aboveparameter were analyzed between two groups, the linear correlationsbetween parameters were also analyzed in SK and nSK groups. Theconcentrations of plasma glucose and lipids were determined byroutine methods, the level of leptin by RIA and ketone bodies bysalicylaldehyde spectrometry. The results shows that: The SK grouphad significantly lower average leptin concentration (P=0.000024)and higher average ketone bodies concentration (P=0.00045) thannSK group. Although the SK group had lower average glucoseconcentration than nSK group, the difference between them was notsignificant (P=0.0575). There was no significant differences inaverage lipids levels between two groups (P=0.05). For correlations,both SK and nSK groups had highly significant correlations betweenleptin and ketone bodies, also between glucose and ketone bodiesconcentrations, so did between leptin and lipids, between ketonebodies and lipids in nSK group. On the dynamic curve, the changes ofleptin, ketone bodies and glucose in SK group displayed lowerfrequency wave with various amplitudes within test period, the leptinexhibited a long-span wave with the peak less than 1.1ng/ml. In nSK

group all parameters except lipids displayed high frequenciesfluctuations. In conclusion, the lower frequency changes of leptin,ketone bodies and glucose concentrations are the results of energymetabolism dysregulation in the cows with SK. The occurrence of asingle long-span wave in leptin dynamic change within 8 weekspostpartum may be associated with the underfeeding SK. Key words: dairy cow, leptin, ketosis, dynamic correlation, lipids

286 Flying Scapulas as a Symptom of Muscular Dystrophy inDutch Dairy Heifers

K. Jobse1, R. Bouwstra2, M. Holzhauer31

DAP Nijkerk-Wellensiek, Nijkerk, Netherlands2

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Animal HealthDepartment, Utrecht, Netherlands

3Animal Health Service Deventer, Deventer, Netherlands

Introduction case report: Within one week after turning out heiferson pasture, a dairy farmer consulted his local veterinary practitioner.Three heifers out of a group of 30 displayed a symptom in literaturedescribed as “Flying Scapulas”. This abnormality is characterised bya separation of both scapulas from the thorax due to bilateral ruptureof the serratus ventralis muscles. After this first consult all heiferswere housed and provided extra vitamin E and selenium (Se). Materials and Methods: During this first consult blood was sampledfrom all three heifers. Three weeks later blood was sampled from thetwo remained heifers. Blood was analyzed for vitamin E, glutathioneperoxidase and serum creatine phosphokinase activity. One heifer waseuthanized three days after the first consult and one heifer three weekslater. On this heifer post mortem research was carried out.Results: The first blood samples revealed a vitamin E as well as a Sedeficiency in all three heifers while CPK levels were too high. Afterthree weeks of supplementation vitamin E and Se levels were normal.One heifer did not clinical recover and still had a high CPK blood leveland was therefore euthanized. Post mortem research showed a bilateralrupture of the serratus ventralis muscles. No new clinical cases ofmuscular dystrophy have been observed after housing and providingextra vitamin E and selenium.Conclusion: The most likely reason for developing the specificsymptoms of “Flying Scapulas” is muscular dystrophy caused by aninadequate vitamin E and Se supply during winter, followed byexcessive exercise after turn-out. The authors’ opinion is that this is thefirst report in which both a vitamin E and selenium deficiency havebeen found in animals with the clinical symptoms of Flying Scapulas.This also is the first case-description of cattle with this specificsymptom in The Netherlands. Key words: case-description, flying scapulas, muscular dystrophy

287 Total Lipid and Triacylglycerol Determination in OneAnalytical Approach in Small Amounts of Bovine HepaticTissue

R. Busche, A. Haudum, A. Starke, J. Rehage University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Clinic ofRuminants, Hannover, Germany

Fatty liver is the most frequent liver disease in dairy cows in earlylactation and an important risk factor for other periparturient diseases. Theincrease of the total lipid (TL) content is mainly due to accumulation oftriacylglycerol (TAG) but also to a rise in other hepatic fat fractions. Sincefine needle biopsies commonly yield no more than 100mg of hepatictissue the aim was to develop an analytical combined method for TL andTAG determination in small amounts of liver tissue. Liver bioptates (10g)taken from 10 different HF cows during surgical correction of abomasaldisplacement were splitted into equal portions and stored at -85°C. TLwere extracted from homogenised tissue samples (ca. 50mg) with 2mlhexane:isopropanol (3:2, v/v; at 20°C, 24h, constant agitation). Then 1mlNa2SO4 (0.455 mmol/l) was added. Samples were vortexed, centrifuged(400g, 10min) and the hexane phases with extracted lipids weretransferred to clean tubes. For complete lipid extraction 1ml hexane wasadded to the bottom phase, then vortexed, centrifuged, and the hexanesupernatant was used again. After hexane evaporation the dry extract wasused for gravimetric TL determination. For TAG analysis the dry lipidextract was dissolved in 1ml hexane and aliquoted according to TLcontent. Commercial test kits on an automated analyser withoutmodifications revealed incomplete enzymatic TAG hydrolysis. Thus, anextra incubation step for complete hydrolysis was included, and various




lipases (porcine pancreatic lipase type II and type VI-S, microbial lipase),detergents (SDS 10%; Lubrol), and incubation periods (0.5-16 h) weretested. Triolein (Sigma, Steinheim, Germany) was used as internalstandard. The coefficient of variance (CV) of TL analysis in the ten liverbioptates (range: 40-314mg/g FW) was in average 2.2% (max. 4.5%;three repetitions). For the extra incubation step prior to the final enzymaticTAG analysis (MTI diagnostics, Idstein, Germany) microbial lipase,Lubrol, and 16 hours of incubation provided best results. Mean recoveryof Triolein was 101% (97%-107%) with mean intra and inter day (10samples, 5 repetitions) CV% of 0.75% and 2.7%, resp. The liver TAG(range: 4-260 mg/g FW) analysis showed mean intra and inter day CV%of 2.5% (0.35-5.6%) and 3.4% (2.3-4.9%), resp. The presented combinedmethod for TL and TAG determination in small amounts of bovine livertissue was simple, accurate and reproducible.This work was supported by WILHELM SCHAUMANN STIFTUNG,Hamburg, Germany.

288 Study on the Mechanism in the Damage of ErythrocyteMembrane in Low-phosphorus Cows

SW. Xu, FQ. Shi, DW. Xuan Northeast Agricultural University, College of Veterinary Medicine,Harbin, China

Objectives: Investigate the mechanism in the damage of erythrocytemembrane (EM) in low-phosphorus cows. Materials and Methods: These cows with field cases were divided intothree groups, including hemoglobinuria group (HG), low-phosphorusgroup (LPG) and control group (CG). The phospholipid composition,skeletin, antioxidant function and shape of EM were determined.Results: The phospholipid composition, skeletin, antioxidative functionand shape of EM obviously changed in HG and LPG. (1) Phos-phatidylethanolamine (PE) content in HG was significantly lower thanthat in LPG and CG, but sphingomyeline (SM) and phosphatidycholine(PC) + phosphatidylserine (PS) content in HG was significantly higherthan that in LPG and CG. In comparison between LPG and CG, PC + PScontent were lower and SM content was higher in LPG. Significantpositive correlation and negative correlation were observed betweenserum phosphorus and PE content, serum phosphorus and SM content,respectively. (2) There were no difference was found in EM skeletinbetween LPG and CG. Spectrin I, spectrin II, and band IV-2 content waslower in HG than that in LPG and CG, but band III was higher in HG thanthat in LPG and CG. (3) SOD activity and GSH-Px activity in HG andLPG was significantly lower than that in CG. MDA content in HG andLPG was significantly higher than that in CG. There were a significantpositive correlation between serum phosphorus and erythrocytic SODactivity and GSH-Px activity, and a negaitive correlation between serumphosphorus and erythrocytic MDA content. (4) Through the observationof scanning electron microscope, the course of erthrocytolysis attributableto low phosphorus intake was proved: the erythrocytes changed frombiconcaval shape to acanthocytes, spherocytes and to be destroyedeventually with the decresed serum phosphorus content. Treatment withphosphorus preparation could signficantly alleviate the change inerythrocyte shape and make it to return to normal shape. Conclusions: The phospholipid composition, skeletin, and shape of EMchanged, and the antioxidant function of EM decreased in low-phosphorus cows. These further caused the occurrence of the haemolysis. Key words: cow; low-phosphorus; erythrocyte membrane

289 Prevalence of Digital Dermatitis in First Lactation CowsPresented at Auction

M. Hulek1,2, I. Sommerfeld-Stur3, J. Kofler11

University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Department of Horsesand Small Animals, Clinic of Orthopaedics in Large Animals,Vienna, Austria

2Veterinary Practice Michael Hulek,Oberneukirchen, Austria

3University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Department of AnimalBreeding and Reproduction, Institute of Animal Breeding andGenetics, Vienna, Austria

Objective: The risk of introducing digital dermatitis (= DD) to dairyherds by the introduction of infected, newly purchased cattle isassumed to be considerable. The aim of the study was to assess theprevalence of DD in first lactation cows (FLCs) presented as breedingcattle at the monthly auction in one auction centre in Austria over aperiod of 10 months.

Material and Methods: The FLCs to be examined were selectedrandomly for claw examination for each auction from the monthly auctioncatalogue. At each auction a minimum of 25% of FLCs were selected,with an average of 36% of all FLCs of all 10 auctions. After obtainingowner’s consent, the hindclaws were examined in a walk-in crush for DD.DD lesions were evaluated by the parameters localisation (plantar,interdigital, dorsal aspect), diameter in cm and lesion type (M1-M4).Other claw lesions and trimming status of the claws were also noted.Results: From a total of 1110 FLCs registered for the ten auctions onthe catalogues, 399 were chosen for examination, and of these 199FLCs could be examined. In 63 cows from the random sample theowners did not consent to the examination. A total of 24 FLCs werefound to have DD lesions on one or both hindlimbs, with at least onecow detected at nine of the ten auctions. The size of lesions rangedfrom 0.5 to 3 cm in diameter. The prevalence of DD determined at 10auction dates within 10 months was 12.06%.Conclusions: The results of this study show that about 12% of FLCspresented as breeding cattle at auction were affected with DD. Thisresult suggests that in the worst case, if each of these FLCs affectedwith DD is introduced into a DD free herd, 24 new herds could beinfected by DD during a 10 months period from one single auctioncentre in Austria. An additional risk is the infection of other animals atthe auction from the use of shared walkways and pens, with apotentially much larger number of herds affected at a later stage. Inorder to reduce both these risks, we recommend that dairy farmerspurchase only cows free from digital dermatitis. An examination of theclaws for the presence of DD lesions should be carried out in all cowsone or two weeks before they are presented at auction. Thisexamination should be performed by trained experts and the findingsshould be documented in a special protocol, which should be presentedwith the cow at the auction, and be available for inspection by allpotential buyers.

POSTER ABSTRACTS

443 Influence of Age, Season and Physiological State on someBiochemical Parameters in South Eastren Algerian DesertGoats

H. Nadia1, M. Toufik1, M. Bakir2, B. Mabrouk1

1 Batna University, Veterinary, Batna, Algeria2 Batna University, Virology, Batna, Algeria

Blood plasma Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, and Fe were analysed in order toestablish biochemical references, and to study the influence of age,season and physiological state on the variation of these parameters. The results demonstrate: – Ca, Mg, and Na levels were high at birth and decrease with age. – The season had a signficant effect on the levels of these ions, forexample Ca, Mg, K decreased and inversely Na increased during dryseason. – The values obtained for the plasma Ca, Mg, Na, K, Ca:P and Fe levelsin pregnant goats were 80.02±4.84 mg/l, 22.14±1.61 mg/l, 142±1.73mEq/l, 6.43±0.40 mEq/l, 1.29±0.37 and 91.11±18.84 µg/100mlrespectively. They were significantly higher than in non pregnant andlactating females. – Ca (77.67±3.20 mg/l), Mg (20.44±1.66 mg/l), K (5.65±0.57 mEq/l)and Ca:P (1.35±0.35) were lower in lactating goat compared topregnant and non pregnant goats. These values of plasma minerals can be used as reference to detectmetabolic and/or nutritional disorders in goat. Key words: mineral metabolism, goat, lactating, desert

44 The Evaluation of Vitamin A and ß-carotene Levels duringPostpartum Period in Semi Industrial Dairy Farms in Iran

M. Tehrani Sharif1, R. Mozaffary2, J. Gholami Seyed kolaee3,M. Rezaee ghale2, A. Cheraghzadeh2

1 Islamic Azad University , Garmsar branch, Department ofPathobiology , Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Garmsar, Iran

2 Islamic Azad University , Garmsar branch, Student, Garmsar, Iran3 Shahid Chamran University, Student, Ahwaz, Iran

Objective of study: Vitamin A, retinol, plays a vital role in vision sense.Due to the presence of large amounts of beta-carotene in cattle’s foods &




vitamin A stores in liver, the hypovitaminosis is not provable. Increasedsecretion of vitamin A in milk during postpartum period, increases the riskof hypovitaminosis occurrence in cattle’s feed on a poor beta- carotenenutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of vitamin A &beta-carotene during postpartum period in some semi industrial farmswith poor beta-carotene based nutrition in Ghaemshahr Iran.Material & methods: Blood samples were obtained from 88 dairycows during postpartum period. The samples were centrifuged andfroze pa at -20 °C. To prevent direct contact of samples with air andlight, serum were preserved at dark pockets. Cows were classified at 9groups based on postpartum period (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 month afterparturition). Vitamin A & beta-carotene were determined byspectrophotometric method. Results: The mean value of vitamin A & beta-carotene were38.06±9.16 µg/dl & 33.8±9.74 µg/dl respectively. The mean value ofvitamin A in 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 month postpartum were 33.98±7.26,29.51±3.5, 35.23±1.44, 37.20±7.62, 38.74±9.06, 38.09±8.20,39.91±6.96, 42.89±4.87, 46.05±5.01 respectively. The mean value ofbeta-carotene in 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 month postpartum were 37.02±3.45,40.17±1.56, 26.79±3.40, 40.29±6.26, 18.07±4.02, 36.15±3.6,59.61±8.36, 36.31±7.31, 31.11±8.19 respectively. Conclusion: The mean values of vitamin A were normal in spite ofconsumption of poor beta- carotene based nutrition. It might be due tohigh level of liver stores. There were not significant differences in meanvitamin A during postpartum period. The mean beta-carotene were lowerthan reference ranges during post partum period. The decreased level ofbeta-carotene indicates the nutritional deficiency of beta-carotene.Key words: Vit A, beta carotene, postpartum period

445 Comparison of Clinical and Laboratuar Responses forLaparotomic Omentopexy and Laparoscopic Abomasopexy inCows with Left Abomasal Displacement

K. Yigitarslan1, N. Yavru2, S. Avki11 University of Mehmet Akif Ersoy, Faculty of Vet.Med,

DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY, Burdur, Turkey2 University of Selcuk, Faculty of Vet. Med., DEPARTMENT OF

SURGERY, Konya, Turkey

The objective of this study was to compare the metabolic responses andrecovery period in cows with left abomasal displacement following bysurgical treatment either with laparotomic omentopexy or laparoscopicabomasopexy. Forty cows brought to the Faculty of Veterinary Science(The Universities of Selcuk and Mehmet Akif Ersoy) and diagnosed withleft abomasal displacement were used. The cows were divided for twogroups. Twenty cows (group 1) were treated with laparotomicomentopexy and the other 20 were treated with laparoscopicabomasopexy. There were no statistically differences between bothgroups concern about sex, age, number of calving, time after parturition,diseases period, level of displacement, feces quantity, body temperature,heart frequency and serum lactate levels. Serum K and Cl levels werereached to normal levels in laparoscopic abomasopexy group at 72nd

hours postoperatively. The serum cortizol levels were maximum at 0th

hours both in laparoscopic abomasopexy and laparotomic omentopexygroups, and it was decreased under the preoperative levels after 24 hours.In cows treated with laparoscopic abomasopexy, the serum cortizol levelswere statistically decreased at 24th and 72nd hours compared to thelaparotomic omentopexy group (p<0.05). Serum ß-hidroxybutirate levelswere statistically decreased in laparoscopic abomasopexy group at 24th

and 72th hours compared to the laparotomic omentopexy group (p<0.05).As a conclusion, laparoscopic abomasopexy technique may be superiorthan laparotomic omentopexy due to the reduced risk of abdominalcontamination, less intestinal movement loss in postoperative term, rumencontraction number reached normally earlier, small incision for enter toabdominal cavity, definite of diagnose and less operative stress.

446 The Levels of Serum Amiloid A and HaptoglobinConcentration in Cows with Abomasal Displacement

H. Guzelbektes, A. Coskun, M. Ok, I. Sen University of Selcuk, Faculty of Vet. Med., Department of ClinicalSciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Konya, Turkey

The objectives of study: The purpose of this study (1) was todetermine concentrations of selected acute phase proteins (serumamyloid A and haptoglobin), haematological and biochemical changesin cows with abomasal displacement.

Materials and methods: Forty-two Swiss® Holstein dairy cows withleft displacement abomasums (LDA) and sixteen Swiss® Holsteindairy cows with right displacement abomasums (RDA) were used inthis study. Clinically healthy post parturient cows (n = 9) from a localdairy farm were used as control group. Blood samples were collectedfrom the jugular vein from all the cows. Surgery was performed in allcows with displacement abomasum (DA). The abomasum wasrepositioned followed by an omentopexy. Results: The mean concentration of haptoglobin and serum amyloid A incow with DA without concurrent diseases were slightly increasedcompared to control groups. The concentration of haptoglobin and serumamyloid A in cows with DA with infectious diseases were greater highcompare to cows with DA with non-infectious disease. Serum glucoseconcentration in cows with DA had increased in general. But serumglucose concentrations in cows with RDA were more increased comparedwith cows with LDA. The serum albumin levels in all cows with DA wereslightly decreased compare to control group cows.Conclusion: Acute phase proteins level in cows with DA withoutconcurrent disease were slightly increased. Although concentration ofHp and SAA in cows suffered from ketosis and fatty liver was mildlyincreased, concentration of Hp and SAA in infectious diseased cowswith DA increased more. But there was no relationship betweenelevated acute phase proteins level and prognosis of DA. We can saythat elevated acute phase proteins level in cows with DA are primarilybecause of the relationship of concurrent disease and stress. Acknowledgment: This study was supported by University of Selcuk,Scientific Research Project Coordinating.Key words: serum amyloid A and haptoglobin, abomasaldisplacement, cows.

447 Ameliorative Effects of Boron on Serum Profile in Buffalo(Bubalus Bubalis) Fed High Fluoride Ration

V. Bharti1,2, M. Gupta1

1 CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Department ofVeterinary Physiology, Hisar, India

2 Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Division of Physiology &Climatology, Bareilly, India

An experiment was undertaken to evaluate the protective role of boron onthe serum profile of buffalo calves fed a high fluoride ration. Twelve maleMurrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves of 6-8 months age were dividedinto three groups of four calves in each group. They were fed basal dietsand supplemented with sodium fluoride (NaF, 60ppm) alone or incombination with borax (Na2B4O7.10H2O, 140ppm) for 90 days.However, boron (B) was added in the ration as borax to make @140ppmboron (elemental B) on DM basis in treatment II. Dietary F caused asignificant (p<0.05) depressing effect on serum Ca and Zn on day 90,which was improved with B supplementation. However serum Fe and Cudid not show any significant change on F as well as F+B supplementation.The serum ALP and phosphorus level were increased significantly(p<0.05) upon F feeding but declined significantly (p<0.05) when B wasfed. These findings suggest that boron has beneficial effect on serumminerals and ALP in buffalo calves fed high fluoride ration.Key words: boron, buffalo, enzyme, fluoride, mineral

448 Clinical Field Evaluation of a Butaphosfan + Vitamin B12Compound (Phosphorum B12/Catosal® - Bayer) in theTreatment of Subclinical Ketosis in Dairy Cows

V. Cuteri1, L. Nisoli2, A. Attili1, A. Romero Tejeda1, A. Fruganti11 University of Camerino, Veterinary Science, Matelica (MC), Italy1 Bayer Health Care, Veterinary Science, Milan, Italy

Sub-clinical Ketosis (SK) is a metabolic disorder in high-producing dairycattle characterized by abnormal levels of ketone bodies in blood, urineand milk and absence of clinical signs. The inability of the cow toregenerate the energy lost to sustain the lactation, leads in economic lossesthrough decreased milk production and reproductive performance. Theaim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Butaphosfan andCianocobalamine (Phosphorum B12® 10% inj. solution) on dairy cattlewith sub-clinical ketosis. During February to September 2007, a negative-controlled, blinded, multi-centre and randomised clinical study wascarried out on 79 primiparous and multiparous animals reared in 4 Italianfarms. One group (n=42) was treated with Phosporum B12® (KP) at adose of 25 ml/animal i.m., once a day for 5 consecutive days, while theSub-Ketosis Control (KC) group (n=37) was not treated. Milk was




collected from each cow and tested for the presence of Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) - an indicator of abnormal fat metabolism usingKetolac® and following manufacturer’s instruction. Appetite and bovineactivity (ALPRO DELAVAL System) were evaluated for 10 days postenrolment (PE). Rectal temperature and symptoms of clinical ketosis, LeftDisplaced Abomasum or other diseases, were also recorded. Milk BHBA200 Ïmol/L was used as the cut-off value for diagnosis of SK while values<100 µmol/L were considered surely negative. After 10 days PE, theincidence of SK based on the milk test was statistically different betweengroups (P=0.0213), with a significant decrease from 5th (48.65%) to 10th

day (23.81%) only in the treated KP group (P=0.0129). Inoculation ofPhosphorum B12® increased the prevalence of cows cured (milk BHBA<100 µmol/L) at the 5th day of treatment (16.67%), showing a statisticaldifference (P=0.0401) vs KC group (2.70%). Also, the treatmentimproved the average milk production to 27.53L for KC group vs 30.94Lfor KP group (P=0.0106). Even if the appetite reduced in both groups,only untreated cows showing a serious diminishment and anorexia at 5thday recorded a significant decrease (P<104) in the average of milk yield(19.27L) in comparison to the animals with normal appetite (28.93L). Nodifferences were observed about temperature, activity and othersymptoms. The administration of Phosphorum B12® resulted in a soonerreduction of BHBA levels in milk and in a better recovery of milkproduction.

449 Calcium Levels and Some Biochemical Parameters in Lambswith White Muscle Disease

S. Kozat Yuzuncu Yil University, Ozalp Vocational High School, Özalp-Van,Turkey

White Muscle Disease (WMD) or Muscular dystrophy is a nutritionaland enzootic disease of lambs that is characterized by muscledegenerations. In muscle dystrophy, the total calcium values areelevated. This study tested the hypothesis whether serum calciumvalues change in WMD of lambs or not. 10 healthy and 15 WMD lambsof Akkaraman breed were included in the study. Prior to treatment (atday 0), serum calcium values of lambs with WMD were higher thanthose of healthy control group (P <0.01). Similarly, prior to thetreatment the CK, LDH, AST, ALT, and ALP values in lambs withWMD were significantly higher compared to those of control (P<0.001, P <0.001, P <0.001, P <0.01 and P <0.05, respectively). Aftertreatment (at day 30), none of the parameters were significantlydifferent than healthy controls (P >0.05). In addition to biochemicalparameters mentioned above, simultanous serum calcium values wereelevated in WMD lambs. Key words: White muscle disease, lamb, calcium, biochemicalparameters

450 Evaluation of Whole Cottonseed as Effective Fiber Source inEarly Lactating Holstein Cows

M. Salehpour1, H. Amnalou2

1 Islamic Azad University ,Roudehen Branch, Agriculture College,Tehran, Iran

2 University of Zanjan, Animal Science Department, Zanjan, Iran

Twelve Holstein cows in early lactation were used imbalancedchangeover design to evaluated the effect of replacing alfalfa NeutralDetergent Fiber (NDF) with NDF from whole cottonseed at deferentlevels (0,7,14,20) on dry matter bases that replaced to alfalfa hay. Thediets were similar as crude protein and neutral detergent fiber on drybase. Cows fed with total mixed ration individually. Dry matter intakeand milk yields were higher for cows fed high whole cottonseed(14,20%) diets than for that alfalfa control diet. High whole cottonseeddiet had best efficiency. Milk fat percentage and milk fat yield werehighest for high whole cottonseed diets, but no significant differencewere found among the another milk composition compound (protein,lactose and SNF). Milk component yields were significant difference(p<0.05). Rumen pH and fecal pH were affected not significantly byexperimental diets. Chewing activity increased linearly when increasedwhole cottonseed percentage. Increased whole cottonseed percentageassociated increased physically effective fiber. Digestibility resultswere indicated that control diet and 7 percentage whole cottonseeddiets had highest dry matter digestibility (p<0.05), But organic matter,crude protein and NDF digestibility were not affected significantamong diets. Daily weight gain and body condition score change were

affected by diets that14 and 20 percentage whole cottonseed diets wereindicated highest daily weight gain and body condition score (p<0.05).Plasma urea nitrogen was higher for 14 and 20 percentage wholecottonseed diets.Key words: early lactation, whole cottonseed, alfalfa hay, effectiveNDF, chewing activity

451 Effect of Molybdenum and Sulphur on Copper Status andMohair Quality in Merghoze Goat

M. Moeini1, E. Nooriyan1, M. Souri1, E. Mikaeeli21 Razi University, Animal Science, Kermanshah, Iran2 Razi University, Animal Nutrition, Kermanshah, Iran

This study was made on the effects of a normal diet containing 12.8 mgCu/kg DM, which supplemented with molybdenum and sulphur on thecopper status and fibre quality in eight 1- year Iranian Merghoze goat.One group (n=4 mean weight 31±2.0 kg) was treated with Mo and Ssupplements for 20 weeks, the second group (n=4 mean weight 32± 2.1kg) served as controls. In addition of blood sampling for measuringcopper status in plasma, the copper content and quality of fleeces weremeasured every 6 weeks. Mohair measurements were carried out bytaking patch samples (10 x 10 cm2) from the mid-side area of the goat.The analytical set consists of plasma copper concentrations (Pl Cu),Trichloroacetic acid soluble copper concentrations (TCA-Cu), andfleece copper content. The results indicated that the addition of 30 mgMo and 2.5g S /kg DM to the normal diet did produce sub clinicalcopper deficiency. One such visual symptom was the loss of fleecespigmentation and poorer crimp being observed. The results showedthat there was a significant decrease in Pl Cu (P<0.5) along with asignificant increase in thiomolybdate (MoS) production after 4 months.The Pl Cu minus TCA-Cu plasma became more than 2 µM in the bloodof treated goat, indicating that there was a significant thiomolybdateformation in the body. The signs of copper deficiency are likely to befrom thiomolybdate formation in the body, which reduced mohairquality in Merghoze goat. Key words: copper deficiency, molybdenum, sulphur, fiber, Goat

452 An Investigation of Zinc Deficiency Effects in the Nutrition ofHolstein Heifer and Determine the Best Form ZincSupplements for its Composition

M. Salehpour, M. Hajipour Islamic Azad University, Roudehen Branch, Agriculture College,Roudehen, Iran

A 100-d study was conducted to determine zinc concentration ofnutrition and it interaction effects on serum zinc concentration”immune system” health and daily weight gain and also fordetermining the best mineral supplements of zinc absorption(zincsulphate and oxide)on 24 Holstein heifers with average age if 6 monthand weight163 kg in completely randomizes design(CRD) and a 2*2factorial experiment form including 4 treatments consisting six heifersin the vertical integration of Babol Gavedasht in Mazandaran province.The amount of zinc fed animals in all treatments including twolevels and two factors(one equals zinc sulfate and the other zinc oxide)and ration of fed have formulated in a way that energy , protein and allnutrients except zinc were similar. The results of experiments indicatethat about 70% of feeds have relative deficiency of zinc but no sings ofdeficiency including allopecia, parakeratosis, decrease of appetite andhock inflammation. Also, the results show there was no significancebetween zinc supplements have been seen during the whole periodparticularly and twenty eight day of experiment but fed zincsupplements has been significant especially zinc sulphate levels in theamounts of zinc in blood serum.

453 The Effect of Selenium and Vitamin E Administration toHeifers during the Late Stage of Pregnancy on Copper andZinc Status

M. Moeini1, E. Mikaeili1, A. Kyanei21 Razi University, Animal Science, Kermanshah, Iran2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Medicin, Kermanshah, Iran

This study was conducted to determine the effect of injection ofselenium and vitamin E to pregnant heifers at the last stage of gestationon serum Se, Cu, Zn and Fe status. Fifty Holstein heifers were




randomly assigned to one of five treatments. Four and two weeksbefore expected calving, the heifers were injected intramuscularly 0 ml(T0), 10 ml (T1), 20 ml (T2), 30 ml (T3), 40 ml (T4) selenium andvitamin E respectively. The control (C) group received no supplement.Blood samples were collected from heifers four weeks before expectedcalving and at calving day. Blood samples of calves were drowningfrom the jugular vein at birth and 7 days of age. Serum concentrationsof Se were determined using hydride generation Atomic absorptionSpectrophotometer. The result indicated that the serum concentrationof Se, Cu and Fe increased in T3 and T4 treatment heifers at calvingday but no change seen in serum concentration of Zn. Serum Cuconcentrations in calves of treated groups increased at birth and firstweek of age but was not significantly different. The serumconcentration of Cu and Fe increased in calves of heifers given Se andvitamin E compound esp. in T3 and T4 treatments but the serumconcentration of Zn decreased. It seems that the Zn: Cu and Zn: Feratios be disturbed which lead to Zn reduction. It can be concluded thatZn should be supplemented when more than 40 mg/Kg Dmadministered to pregnant heifers.Key words: Zn, Cu, Se, interaction, heifers

454 Effect of Mixed Enzymes on Alfalfa Hay Nutritive ValueUsing in vitro Gas Production and in situ Techniques

B. Baghbanzadeh Nobari, A. Taghizadeh, H. Janmohamadi,S. Alijani, H. Paya, G. Moghadam Dept. of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz,Tabriz, Iran

Fibrolytic enzymes are typically cellulase that degrade cellulose orxylanase that act on hemicellulose (Beauchemin et al., 1995). Enzymesapplied to forages immediately before incubation enhance the digestionof dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) suggesting thatfibrolytic enzymes applied at feeding can improve digestion inruminants.

455 Changes of Serum Parameters in Monensin-contained Diet ofGezel Sheep

B. Baghbanzadeh Nobari1, A. Rezapour2, P. Namavar1,G. Moghadam2

1 Dept. of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University ofTabriz, Tabriz, Iran

2 Dept. of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Islamic AzadUniversity of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

Five Gezel male lamb treated with 4 levels of monensin (0, 10, 30, and60 mg/kg of diet) in a change-over design. Blood samples were takenone hour before and 2 hrs after feeding. Serum was separated andfreezed up to analysis. Serum levels of glucose, beta-hydroxy-butyrate,triacylglycerol, total protein, albumin (albumin/ globulin), and bloodurea nitrogen (BUN) was measured by colorimetric methods.Considering liver health, serum activity of AST, ALP, and GGT wasmeasured. Ruminal fluid sample was taken for pH analysis(ruminocynthesis). Total and differential white blood cell count andphagocytosis test undertaken. Results of this study showed thatmonensin in a level of at least 30 mg/kg of diet could effectively inhibitacidosis occurrence. Acidosis has a negative effect on appetite; acidoticanimals have lower levels of glucose in serum. But, monensin does nothave any independent positive effect on serum glucose. Even two-foldsof this dosage had no negative effect on liver. Monensin does not anystimulatory effect on natural immunity either independently or dose-dependently. Generally staying, monensin may be inhibiting acidosiselated complications such as natural immune depression.Key words: gezel, immunity, monensin, sheep

456 D-vitamin Status of Cows in Preparturient andPostparturient Periods under Injection of Cholecalciferol

L. Yuskiv1, B. Kurtiak1, V. Vlizlo2

1 Institute of Animal Biology UAAS, Cattle Nutrition, Lviv, Ukraine2 Institute of Animal Biology UAAS, Scientific Center for Prion

Infections Study, Lviv, Ukraine

The aim of our work was the investigation of influence of different doses(210 and 420 IU D3/kg body weight) of vitamin D3 on vitamins status ofcows in preparturient and postparturient periods under the parenteral

injection of vitamin D3 once before calving and three times after calvingwith interval of seven days. The experiment was carried out on the threegroups of cows of Black-and-White breed, 5-6-years-old age, in a winter-spring period. The cows of first group, to which vitamin D did notinjection governed as control. To the cows of 2-nd and 3-rd groups thevitamin D3 was injected intramuscularly in abovementioned doses. Inblood the level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the concentration of calcium,magnesium, inorganic phosphorus, the activity of total alkalinephosphatase and its isoenzymes at 3-5 days before calving, 5-7 days and55-60 days after calving were determined. It was established, that thecontent of 25-OH D3 in the blood serum of cows of 1-st, 2-nd and 3-rdgroups at 3-5 days before calving was correspondently: 18,75; 25,95 and32,85 nmol/l, and at 5-7 days after calving 15,83; 20,83 and 31,88 nmol/l.At 55-60 day after calving the concentration of 25-OH D3 in blood serumof cows was the greatest and varied from 20,48 till 35,0 nmol/l. Thus inthe cows blood of 2-nd and 3-rd groups before and after calving dosedependence increase of concentration of calcium of total, protein-linkedand ultra-filtrates was observed. The concentration of magnesium in theblood of cows of 3-rd group in the 5-7 day after calving was statisticallysignificantly higher about 19%, and in the 55-60 day about 6 %,comparatively with the control. At the same time, in the blood of cows of2-nd and 3-rd groups, comparatively with the control group, dosedependence increase of concentration of inorganic phosphorus anddecrease of the activity of alkaline phosphatase and its isoenzymes (boneand intestinal) was observed. Parenteral injection of cholecalciferol tocows before and after calving maintained the level of 25-OH Vit D3 andeffected on the exchange of mineral components of blood, that preventsthe decrease of their level in postparturient period. The character of thesechanges depend on the physiological state of cows and on the doses ofvitamin D3.Key words: cows, prepartum, postpartum, calcium, 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol

457 Clinical and Subclinical Cases of Phosphorus Deficiency andHypophosphatemia in Egyptian Buffaloes

H. Morsy1, A. Sheikh2, M. El-gamal31 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Department

of Animal Nutrition, Ismailia, Egypt2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal Nutrition,

Ismailia, Egypt3 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Animal Nutrition,

Cairo, Egypt

The correlationship between food intake, hypophosphatemia, bloodcontents, pregnancy and health condition were done in 35 bufalloes 2-4 months before parturation at 7-9 years old (9 healthy as a control,12with clinical and 14 with subclincal hypophosphatemia according toblood , serum and feed analysis and clinical examination). Analysis of feed stuff revealed a lower level of phosphorous, a higherlevel of calcium and molybdenum with a normal level of copper.Clinical cases of hypophosphatemia showed normal temperature,elevated pulse and respiration, sluggish rumen movement, depravedappetite, pica, dullness, emaciation, red haemoglobin urine and pale orsometimes icteric mucosus membrane.The subclinical cases showed a normal temperature, pulse, respiration,depraved appetite, dullness and sometimes locomotors disturbances.The blood level of hemoglobin content and PCV were significantlydecreased in clinical cases only.Serum levels of inorganic phosphorous was highly significantdecreased with a decrease of serum copper level in clinical cases andsignificantly decreased of phosphorous in subclinical cases. Serumcalcium and molybdenum levels were significantly increased in clinicalcases and slightly increased in subclinical cases. Serum magnesium,sodium, potassium and chloride showed a non significant changes inclinical and subclinical cases.Treatment with Sodium dibasic phosphate (60 gm diluted in 300 mldistilled water was given 4 times within 12 hours intervals, The firstinjection was intravenous, the others was subcutaneous) as well asdaily 20 ml catozal intravenous and 250 gm bran and 10 gm coppersulphate per os in food for one week was satisfy for treatment theclinical cases. Subclinical cases were treated with oral daily of 30 gmsodium dibasic phosphate, 125 gm of bone meal and 2-4 kilogram ofbrain for a period of one month. Correction of feed supply was helpfuland advised in both cases. It is concluded that diet, blood and serumanalysis and the general health condition were helpful for diagnosis ofclinical and subclinical hypophosphatemia in pregnant buffaloes,




correction of diet and phosphorus supplement was useful for treatmentand prevention of hypophophatemia.

458 Ketosis in Dairy Cows under Obligatory Reduction of FeedIntake

A. Elsheikh1, T. Allam2, H. Morsy3

1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Medicine, Zagazig, Egypt,Egypt

2 Animal Health Research Institute,Zagazig, Animal Medicine,Zagazig,Egypt, Egypt

3 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Nutritionand Clinical Nutrition, Ismailia, Egypt

Clinical findings, post-mortem, laboratory examination of blood serumand urine as well as milk production and body weight were done inlactating Friesian cows subjected to a reduction of food intake at thefirst and second month of parturition.Clinical symptoms included loss of body weight, dehydration, sunkeyes, reduction of milk production, crossing of fore limb, lameness,constipation, ketoneuria and acetone odour were appeared within 3-7weeks after restriction of food intake.Post-mortem of dead or emergency slaughtered cows showed a yellowgelatinous foamy fluid inside and around visceral organs, oedema ofpericardium, and intestine. Enlargement greasy and fatty degenerationof liver which was easily perforated on pressure.Serum levels of ketone bodies and total lipids were significantlyincreases meanwhile serum levels of glucose, total protein, calcium,phosphorus and magnesium were significantly decreased. It isconcluded that prolonged feed restriction causes chronic wastingform of ketosis, serous complication and severe economic lossamong dairy cows due to sharp drop of milk production and loss ofbody weight.

459 RBC and WBC Counts in Lactating Dairy Cows Affected bySubacute Ruminal Acidosis

M. Morgante1, M. Gianesella1, C. Cannizzo1, P. Dalvit2,M. Gatto1, LM. Coppola1, L. Moro2

1 Universita’ degli Studi di Padova, Dipartimento di Scienze ClinicheVeterinarie, Legnaro (PD), Italy

2 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro (PD),Italy

The influence of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) on ruminalmicrobiology has received considerable attention, but less is knownabout systemic manifestations that arise from SARA probably becauseit is well known that variables such as breed, stage of growth,reproductive status, and stage of lactation have an influence on manyblood parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate possiblechanges in some haematological parameters in dairy cows affected bySARA. During autumn 2007 the study was carried out on 12 highlyproductive farms, stationed in different zones throughout northernItaly. In all farms, 12 cows in early lactation, in good body conditionand without clinical signs of disease were selected randomly from eachherd, to perform rumenocentesis and obtain rumen fluid. Bloodsamples for hematological profiles were obtained from the same cowsthat had rumenocentesis performed by jugular venipuncture. The herdswere divided into 3 groups depending on the mean rumen pH: group Afarms with pH>5.8 (normal), group B pH between 5.6 and 5.8 (critical)and group C, pH<5.6 (acidosis). Data were statistically analyzed byanalysis of variance to verify the effect of the group. The 3 groups werehomogeneous for average dry matter intake and all the animals were onabsence of external clinical signs of disease. Day in milk (DIM) andbody condition score (BCS) were not statistical different (p<0.05) in 3groups: in particular dairy herds show an average of 35±19, 28±16 and32±18 of DIM and an average of 3.02±0.29, 3.07 ±0.22 and 3.06 ±0.18of BCS for group A, B and C, respectively. RBC counts, HGB, HCT,RDW, PLT and MPV were not significantly different in three groups,whereas the concentration of total WBC increased statistically (6.62±1.73, 6.84±1.91 and 8.73 ±1.98 103/µl) in group A, B and C,respectively. In particular dairy herds show an average differentialWBC counts of 2.8±0.94, 3.4 ±1.01 and 3.8 ±0.96 103/µl ofneutrophils, 2.4±0.64, 2.6 ±0.71 and 2.9 ±0.69 103/µl of lymphocytesand 0.34 ±0.02, 0.23 ±0.01 and 0.22 ±0.01 103/µl of basophils forgroup A, B and C, respectively. These data suggest that modificationsof some haematological parameters can be observed and in particular

the total and differential WBC count were significantly higher in thedairy cows belonging to the farms affected by SARA.

460 Effect of Dietary Buffer Addition on the Concentrations ofTrans-18:1 Fatty Acids and Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)in the Milk of Dairy Cows

I. Vudmaska, O. Golubets, V. Vlizlo Institute of Animal Biology UAAS, Cattle Nutrition, Lviv, Ukraine

CLA and some trans-18:1 fatty acids (trans-10 and trans-11 18:1) havebeen shown to promote health-related effects in human and animals,including anticarcinogenic and antiatherogenic effects and effects onbody composition and fat metabolism. The objective of this study was todetermine the effects of varying amounts of dietary concentrate andbuffer addition on incorporation of trans-18:1 fatty acids into milk fatand on synthesis of CLA by the mammary cells. The effect ofconcentrate to forage ratio and buffer (sodium bicarbonate)supplementation on milk fat composition in Holstein cows wasobjective of study. The 3 diets were examined: 80:20 concentrate toforage ratio, and 50:50 forage to concentrate ratio with (1% of DM) andwithout sodium bicarbonate. The fatty acid profile was determined byGLC, using a 100-m SP-2560 capillary column (Supelco, Inc.). Cowsfed high-concentrate diet have lower ruminal pH (6.14). The addition ofbuffer to this diet has prevented this effect (pH 6.72). Low ruminal pHappears to be a factor that results in the inhibition of the some steps ofFA bio-hydrogenation that convert of unsaturated fatty acids to stearicacid. Altered ruminal function resulting from low ruminal pH for cowsfed the high-concentrate diet may play a role in the increased productionof trans-18:1 fatty acids in the rumen. Milk trans-18:1 fatty acids werehigher for cows fed the high-concentrate diet without buffer than forcows fed the low-concentrate diet without buffer and high-concentratediet with buffer (5.52 % vs. 4.66 % and 4.71 %). The milk trans-10 18:1;trans-11 18:1; trans-10, cis-12 18:2 and cis-9, trans-11 18:2concentrations in cows fed the low-concentrate diet, high-concentratediet without buffer and high-concentrate diet with buffer were 0.23,1.76, 0.34 %; 3.36, 2.12, 3.13 %; 0.05, 0.16, 0.08 % and 1.21, 0.87,1.28 %. At the same time, concentration of the 18:0, total 18:1, total 18:2and total 18:3 fatty acids in the milk of cows fed these diets were 10.02,11.28, 10.71 %; 23.26, 28.90, 26.91 %; 3.19, 3.68, 3.57 % and 1.38,0.92, 0.67 %.The milk fat concentration was lower for cows fed thehigh-concentrate diet without buffer (3.04 % vs. 3.74 % for cows fedlow-concentrate diet). Supplementation of high-concentrate diet withsodium bicarbonate has elevated the milk fat to 3.78 %. Key words: cows, milk, trans-18:1 fatty acids, CLA, sodiumbicarbonate, pH

461 Cytokine Synthesis in Calves Fed with the FeedingstuffsSupplemented by Tylosine or Prebiotics

M. Szymanska-Czerwinska, D. Bednarek National Veterinary Research Institute, Department of Cattle andSheep Diseases, Pulawy, Poland, Poland

The aim of the study was to examine the effect of tylosine andprebiotics (mannan-oligosacharides and ‚-glucans) on the cytokinesynthesis in calves. The calves were fed with feedingdstuffssupplemented either by tylosine (group I) or prebiotics (group II). Thecalves in group III served as the controls. The additives, i. e. tylosineand prebiotics were used in a form of commercial pharmaceuticalpreparations: Tylan (Elanco) and Alphamune (Alpharma),respectively. The experimental calves were fed with traditionalfeedingstuffs supplemented either by tylosine in a recommended doseof 700 mg of the active substance per animal (group I) or prebiotics (‚ -glucans and mannan-oligosaccharides) in dose 14 g per animal (groupII). The animals in group III served as the controls and received thesame feedingstuffs without the additives. The both kinds offeedingstuffs were given to the calves for seven weeks. Blood samplesfrom calves were taken twice a week by the jugular vein puncturebefore the calf morning feeding. Duration of the blood collection was 7weeks too. The following cytokines were assayed: interleukin 1 (IL-1),2 (IL-2), interferon (IFN) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Thecytokines were investigated in the calves serum using: ELISA tests andbiological method by Daniluk and Kandafer-Szerszen. The obtainedresults showed, that in blood sera of calves the concentration ofcytokines significantly increased in both experimental group (I and II).However, the significant higher increase of the concentration was




observed in group II of the animals treated with prebiotics. Accordingto the data presenting in the literature ‚-glucans and tylosine areconsidered as powerful immunostimulators of macrophages and otherimmune effector cells (e.g. monocytes, neutrophiles, NK etc.) mainlyby binding with their specific receptors (CR3, TLR, CD16/CD18 etc.)situated on a surface of the cells and activated them.Key words: tylosine, prebiotics, cytokines, calves

462 Effects of Omentopexy on Tbars and Plasma Frap in DairyCows with Left/Right Abomasal Displacement

P. Mudron1, J. Rehage2

1 University of Veterinary Medicine, Clinic for Rminants, Kosice,Slovakia

2 University of Veterinary Medicine Hanover, Foundation, Clinic forruminants, Hanover, Germany

Objective of study: Higher levels of free radicals and reactive oxygenspecies can result in a damage of biological macromolecules andtissues. Therefore, the present investigation was aimed to study theeffects of omtopexy stress on thiobarbituric acid reactive substances(TBARS) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) in dairy cowssuffering from the left and right abomasal displacement (LAD andRAD, respectively). Material and methods: Ten H-F dairy cows, (5.26 years), admitted fortreatment of left abomasal displacement (omentopexy), were used in ourstudy. Blood samples were drawn from the jugular vein prior to surgery,immediately and then 15, 30, 60, 90 minutes, and 2, 5, 10, and 24 hoursafter reposition of abomasum. In the study on the right abomasaldisplacement ten H-F dairy cows, (4.74 years), admitted for treatment ofright abomasal displacement, were used. Abdominal surgery(omentopexy) was performed in a standing position 1-2 hours afteradmission. The average surgery duration was 26.1 minutes (withoutanaesthesia). Blood samples were drawn from the jugular vein in the sameintervals as in the cows with the left abomasal displacement.Results: LAD Surgical stress resulted in a significant increase in plasmacortisol concentrations (p<0.001) with the highest mean levels 15 minutesafter surgery (32.4±18.1 µg/l) as well as in serum levels of glucose (p<001)and NEFA (p<0.001). Similarly, surgery transiently enhanced the levels ofTBARS (p<0.001). The highest TBARS plasma levels (0.91±0.18 µmol/l)were recognized 60 minutes after reposition of abomasums. There were nosignificant differences in FRAP in dairy cows before and after reposition ofabomasum. RAD ANOVA showed significant changes in plasma cortisolconcentrations within the study (p<0.05). In contrast, both TBARSand FRAP were not significantly affected.Conclusion: The data of the trial with the left abomasal displacementindicate that stress reaction caused by surgical correction of leftdisplacement of abomasum can be associated with higher production ofTBARS. Although the data of cows with the right abomasaldisplacement indicate that stress reaction caused by surgical correction(omentopexy) of the right abomasal displacement is not strong enoughto overwhelm the stress response to pre-surgical events (transport,sickness, new environment), in generally, stressful events seem to beable to lift lipid peroxidation at the higher levels.

463 Blood Gas Parameters in Dairy Cow Affected by SubacuteRuminal Acidosis

M. Morgante1, C. Cannizzo1, M. Gianesella1, P. Dalvit2,F. Bevilacqua1, L. Coppola1, A. Stefani21 University of Padua, Department of Veterinary Clinical Science,

Legnaro (Pd), Italy2 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro (Pd),

Italy

Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) may be a common and economicallyimportant problem for dairy cattle but clinical signs of SARA in a dairyherd can be subtle and easily overlooked. The diagnosis of SARA in aherd or a group, is difficult and the technique greatly employed is themeasurement of ruminal pH in a subsample of cows. According severalresearchers rumenocentesis may be useful for the collection of rumenfluid for pH determination but this technique is often too difficult in fieldconditions. The aim of this trial was to study an alternative method ofdiagnosis of SARA, particularly by the evaluation of some hematologicalparameters, especially blood gas. During autumn 2007 twelve farms havebeen monitored: in all farms, twelve cows in early lactation, in good bodycondition and without clinical signs of disease were selected randomly

from each herd, to perform rumenocentesis and obtain rumen fluid. At thesame time blood samples for haemogasanalysis were obtained by jugularvenipuncture from the same cows that had rumenocentesis. The herdswere divided into three groups depending on the mean rumen pH: groupA counted farms with average ruminal pH > 5.8 (normal), group Bincluded farms with average ruminal pH between 5.6 and 5.8 (critical),and in group C, dairy farms presented an average ruminal pH < 5.6(acidosis). Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance toverify the effect of the group. The three groups were homogeneous foraverage dry matter intake and all the animals were on absence of externalclinical signs of disease. Blood bicarbonates, pH and partial pressure ofCO2 didn’t show significant differences but oxyhemoglobin (%O2 Hb),partial pressure of O2 (pO2), calculated and measured oxygen saturation(sO2c and sO2m) were significantly different. In particular %O2 Hb was70.73±8.52, 66.25±8.95, 64.92±8.63 - pO2 was 41.18±5.03, 33.43±4.95,34.67±5.01 mmHg - %sO2c was 76.70±7.97, 64.31±7.88, 66.57±7.84 -%sO2m was 70.80±8.64, 66.19±8.05, 64.96±8.95 in group A, B and Crespectively. These data suggest that cow attended by SARA probablydon’t have any problem in acid-base equilibrium but this condition couldbe related with some problems in blood oxygenation status.

464 Effect of Yea-Sacc 1026 Supplementation on ProductiveResponse of Dairy Cows Fed Corn Silage-based Diets duringSummer

V. Novais1 R. Cabrita1, C. Gomes2, J. Fonseca3, S. Andrieu4

1 Universidade do Porto, Centro de Estudos de Ciencia Animal,Porto, Portugal

2 Cooperative Agricola de Vila do Conde CRL, Vila do Conde,Portugal

3 Universidade do Porto, ICBAS, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas deAbel Salazar, Porto, Portugal

4 Alltech, Biotechnology Centre, Dunboyne, Ireland

Objectives of study: The objectives of the study was to evaluate theeffects of Yea-Sacc®1026 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae CBS 493.94,Alltech) supplementation on feed intake and performance of dairycows fed corn silage-based diets during summer in Portugal.Materials and methods: Effects of Yea-Sacc®1026 on feed intake andproductive response of dairy cows fed corn silage-based diets wereevaluated in an randomized complete block design experiment, using12 Holstein cows. Animals were fed a diet comprising (dry matterbasis) 42% corn silage, 8% coarsely chopped ryegrass hay, and 50%concentrate (mixture of raw-materials) without (Control) or with 1 gYea-Sacc®1026 _per kg (Yea-Sacc). Experiment lasted for 35 days.During the first seven days, cows were fed the control diet (covariateperiod). At the end of the covariate period, cows were blocked by 4%-fat corrected milk, parity number, and days in milk in six blocks of twoanimals each, and randomly assigned to one of the two treatments(Control and Yea-Sacc). The experiment was carried out during Juneand July 2006, mean maximum and minimum daily barn temperaturesbeing 28 °C (SD = 4.6 °C) and 18 °C (SD = 3.2 °C), respectively.Results: Yea-Sacc®1026 supplementation did not affect dry matter(DM) intake (19.6 and 20.4 kg DM/day, respectively for Control andYea-Sacc), but tended to increase milk production (P=0.072; 30.6 and33.0 kg/day, respectively for Control and Yea-Sacc) and milk proteinproduction (P=0.096; 0.82 and 0.88 kd/day, respectively for Controland Yea-Sacc), and decreased milk lactose content (P=0.083). Plasmaurea concentration did not differ between treatments. Conclusions: Results show that the addition of Yea-Sacc1026 increasemilk production and milk protein production of dairy cows fed cornsilage-based diets subjected to relatively high environmentaltemperatures. The cost/benefit ratio of using Yea-Sacc was 1:4(according to feed costs in Cooperativa Agrícola de Vila do Conde,Portugal, in June 2006). Key words: dairy cow, milk production, heat stress, live yeast

465 Effect of a Modified Glucomannan Fraction from Yeast CellWall Extract (Mycosorb) on Milk Production in Dairy Herdsin South Italy

M. Agovino1, S. Andrieu2

1 Alltech, Biotechnology Centre, Dunboyne, Ireland2 Alltech, Alltech Italia, Bologna, Italy

Objectives of the study: The objective of this study was to evaluatethe effect of a modified glucomannan fraction from yeast cell wall




extract (Mycosorb®, Alltech Inc.) on milk quality (SCC, % fat &protein) and quantity.Materials and methods: The study was conducted on dairy cow herdswhere visual observations indicated the presence of mycotoxincontaminated forage. The study was conducted on 2 dairy farms. The totalmilk production and milk composition was recorded for the total trialperiod. The trial was conducted near Rome, Italy. The trial was done on a“before and after” basis with production figures being compared beforeand after the inclusion of Mycosorb Farm Pak. (including Mycosorb at20% on a carrier). Mycosorb Farm Pak was distributed at 100 g/head/daysfor the first 10 days and 50 g/head/day after until the end of the trial.Results: FARM 1The trial was conducted with 83 lactating Holstein-Friesian cows. The basal diet consisted of corn silage, Ryegrass hay,alfalfa hay, maize meal, feed concentrate (31% crude protein), soybeanmeal and peas. The total milk production and milk composition wasrecorded for 5 months: first 2 month without Mycosorb andconsecutive 3 months with Mycosorb in the diet. Mycosorb inclusionincreased milk yield by 1.5 l/h/d while stage of lactation remainedidentical; protein percentage (3.36% vs 3.41%) and fat percentage(3.71% vs 3.97%) while somatic cell count (SCC) was reduced (529 vs196, x1000 cells/ml). FARM 2The trial was conducted with 74lactating Holstein-Friesian cows. The basal diet consisted of cornsilage, ryegrass hay, alfalfa hay, feed concentrate (21% crude protein).The total milk production and milk composition was recorded for 12months: 3 months without Mycosorb followed by 3 months withMycosorb in the diet and then again 3 months without Mycosorb. WithMycosorb in the diet, SCC decreased (430 vs 288, x1000 cells/ml) andincreased again (288 vs 598, x1000 cells/ml) after the removal ofMycosorb. Mycosorb inclusion increased milk yield by 2 l/h/d withoutchange in stage of lactation at herd level.Conclusions: In conclusion, the inclusion of Mycosorb into the dietcan be used to alleviate mycotoxins negative impact on productiveperformance and milk composition. Key words: dairy cows, milk production, mycotoxins

466 Effects of Increasing Prepartum Dietary Protein Level UsingPoultry by-product Meal on Productive Performance andHealth of Multiparous Holstein Dairy Cows

F. Kafilzadeh1, M. Yazdi1, H. Amanloo2

1 Razi University, Department of Animal Science, Kermanshah, Iran2 University of Zanjan, Department of Animal Science, Zanjan, Iran

The effects of two levels of crude protein (CP) using poultry by-productmeal fed during late gestation on the performance, blood metabolites,some reproductive parameters and colostrum composition of Holsteincows was studied. Sixteen multiparous cows 26±6 d before calving wereassigned to one of the two diets in a randomized block design to evaluatethe effects of two isocaloric diets containing either 14 or 16 % crudeprotein. Postpartum diet was similar in both groups through wk 3 oflactation. Yields of milk, protein, lactose, fat, and SNF were not affectedby prepartum crude protein level. Colostrum composition (fat%, CP%and Total solids%) blood metabolites (Ca, Glucose, Total protein,Albumin, Globulin, Urea N and Cholesterol), some of the reproductiveperformance indexes (Pregnancy duration, Days open, First AI, serviceper conception, First service Conception rate%, and Pregnancy rate%),and disease incidence were not influenced by prepartum crude proteinlevel. Colostrum fat percent was significantly affected (P<0.04). Therewas no significant difference in body weight and BCS in cows receivedthe two different diets. Prepartum blood urea N concentrations wereelevated in the cows fed 16 % CP diets prepartum (P<0.02). Serumcholesterol during prepartum and postpartum periods was significantlydifferent in the two groups of cows. In general except reduced fat incolostrum and increased blood glucose level in cows received 16% CP indiets it seems feeding 16% had no other obvious advantages over 14%protein in close up cows.Key words: poultry by-product meal, dairy cow, close-up, protein

467 Trans Fatty Acids in Milk of Dairy Cows

E. Vargas-Bello-Pérez, P. Garnsworthy University of Nottingham, School of Biosciences, Loughborough,United Kingdom

Lipids obtained from dairy products are an important part of the humandiet in many countries; nearly 75% of the total consumption of fat fromruminant animals comes from bovine milk fat. Milk fatty acid (FA)

composition has numerous effects on milk quality, including itsphysiological properties (e.g. melting point and hardness of butter,fractionation of milk fat) as well as its nutritional properties (e.g. potentialpositive and negative effects on human health). Some FA, such as butyricacid, oleic acid, polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) and conjugated linoleic acid(CLA) have potential anticarcinogenic and antiatherogenic effects onhuman health. Other FA such as some saturated FA (lauric, myristic andpalmitic acids) and some trans FA, (e.g. elaidic acid) have potentialnegative effects on human health by increasing blood LDL-cholesterol.Trans fatty acids (tFA) are produced during biohydrogenation of PUFA inthe rumen and are incorporated into the milk fat of lactating cows. Therehas been intensive research on trans FA, mainly on the effects of specificisomers of trans C18:1 that can be found in dairy products andmargarines. The major tFA found in milk is vaccenic acid (trans-11C18:1), which appears to have mainly beneficial effects on human health.There is also interest in the role of tFA in the milk fat depressing effects ofcertain dairy diets containing low fiber or fish oil. However, the exactmechanisms of this phenomenon remain unclear. Economically, milk fatdepression has a great impact, causing important losses to dairyproducers. Recently, however, there has been interest in milk fatdepression as a possible strategy to maintain energy balance and therebyimprove reproductive performance of dairy cattle. Because milk fatcontains a complex mixture of FA, the research challenge is to improvethe FA profile for human health without compromising the physicalproperties of milk or the metabolism and performance of the cow.

468 The Concentrations of Zn, Cu, Mn and Se in Milk in Relationto Daily Milk Production and Stage of Lactation of DairyCattle

A. Pechová, L. Pavlata, R. Dvorák University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Clinic ofRuminants, Brno, Czech Republic

The concentrations of microelements in dairy milk are studied especiallyin connection with nutrition of children. There is only little informationabout factors, which effect the concentration of various trace elements inmilk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of daily milkproduction and stage of lactation on the concentrations of zinc (Zn),copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) in cow’s milk. Theexperiment was carried out in dairy farm of Holstein cattle with averagemilk production 8,562 kg. It was included 35 dairy cows, which washoused in one division. The sampling of blood and milk was realized twotimes in the course of four weeks. All experimental cows were fed onstable total mixed ration during whole period. The concentration ofmicroelements in daily ration was following: Zn 105 mg/kg, Cu 17mg/kg, Mn 66 mg/kg, Se 0.4 mg/kg of dry matter. The determination ofsingle trace elements was carried out with atomic absorptionspectrophotometry: F-AAS (Zn and Cu in serum, Zn in milk), ETA-AAS(Mn in blood, Mn and Cu in milk), HG-AAS (Se in blood and milk). Thedaily milk production varied from 19.6 l to 62.6 l with the average 36.6 lof milk. In term of stage of lactation there were results from 7 to 188 daysof lactation (the average 105.4 days). The concentrations of single traceelements in blood/serum show that the supplementation of trace elementswas adequate. The concentrations were following: Zn (serum)1063.9±181.1 µg/l, Cu 826.8±138.1 µg/l, Mn 14.0±3.2 µg/l and Se183.8±29.6 µg/l. The concentrations of trace elements in milk widelyvaried and we found the following dates: Zn 3855.2±814.7 µg/l; Cu36.3±14.4 µg/l; Mn 20.1±8.3 µg/l; Se 28.6±7.1 µg/l. The relationsbetween daily milk production and concentration of Zn, Mn and Se werenot statistically significant. Only copper concentration in milk correlatessignificantly (r=-0.302, p<0.05). The relations between stage of lactationand milk concentration of trace elements were closer. We found positivecorrelation for Mn (r=0.419, p<0.01) and on the contrary negativecorrelation for Cu (r=-0.258, p<0.05) and Se (r=-0.277, p<0.05). On thebasis of correlation analysis we did not find significant relations betweenconcentrations of studied trace elements in milk and in blood/serum. The work was realized with the support of MSM Project No.6215712402.Key words: cows, microelements, blood

469 Influence of Soybean Seeds and Hydrolyzed Palm Oil on theMetabolism of Lactating Dairy Cows

V. Lubojacká, A. Pechová, R. Dvorák, L. Pavlata University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Clinic ofRuminants, Brno, Czech Republic




The aim of the monitoring was to compare the influence of fatsupplementation in the form of full-fat soybean seeds and hydrolyzedpalm oil as energy sources for the metabolism of dairy cows in earlylactation. During the first 8 lactation weeks, 17 dairy cows, divided intoexperimental (E; n=8) and control (C; n=9) groups, were followed. Thebasic diet was the same for both groups. The differences were in thecomposition of the concentrate mixture, which had a balanced contentof nutrients, but different source of fat. The group E received heat-treated soybean seeds (22% in concentrates) and the groupC hydrolyzed palm oil. The two diets started to be fed on the day ofcalving. Blood samples were taken weekly (1st-5th) and 8th weeks afterdelivery. At the end of the experiment was taken ruminal fluid. Duringthe experiment BCS in both group worsened similarly. In group Edecreased from 3.8±0.2 to 3.3±0.3 and in Group C from 3.5±0.4 to3.1±0.4. The BCS of the group E was on average by 0.3 point higherthan in group C, but the difference was not significant. Despite thisunfavourable factor, a better performance of hepatic metabolism wasproved in the group E. In this group lower concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids was identified in 3rd (0.96±0.38 vs. 1.76±0.63mmol.l-1; p<0.01) and 8th (0.32±0.29 vs. 0.78±0.48 mmol.l-1; p<0.05)week after calving. The gamaglutamyltransferase activity in serumindicates a better liver parenchyma condition in the group E where noincreased activity was identified above the reference range. Anincreased activity was identified in the group C from 2nd week with asignificant difference between the groups detected in 2nd (0.41±0.07 vs.0.66±0.25 -kat.l-1; p<0.05) and 4th (0.42±0.05 vs. 0.64±0.25 -kat.l-1;p<0.05) weeks after delivery. There were no significant differencesfound between groups in bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase but ageneral tendency toward lower values is apparent in the group E. Basedon these results we can conclude that feeding higher amounts of full-fatsoya (22% in concentrates) does not have a negative effect on the dairycow’s metabolism. Although lipomobilization syndrome has developedin both groups, a lower level of liver affection was diagnosed in thedairy cows, which was fed heat-treated full-fat soybean seeds. The work was realized with the support of MSM Project No.6215712402. Key words: cattle, fat

470 Relationship between Metabolic Factors and Blood ChemistryLevel of Domestic Cow in Korea

YJ. Do1, TY. Hur1, IS. Ryu1, KW. Lee2, SJ. Kang1, CY. Choi1,YH. Jung1, DS. Son1, HR. Han3

1 National Institue of Animal Science, Animal ResourcesDevelopment, Cheonan, Korea, South

2 Kyung Pook National University, College of Veterinary Medicine,Daegu, Korea, South

3 Seoul National University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul,Korea, South

There are many factors to have effect on metabolism of cow like milkproductive quantity, the number of milking days, parturition times, etc.To get the basis of the study about metabolic disease of domestic cowin Korea, we analyzed the relationship between these factors, CBC andblood chemistry level of cow using 517 blood samples from NationalInstitute of Animal Science (NIAS) and 15 farms in GyeonggiProvince. In addition, ketone body level of 84 cows and MUN of 54cows were detected. As a result of analyses, milk productive quantityof a year had positive relation with WBC(K/µl), MO(K/µl), EO(K/µl),Hb (g/dL), HCT(%) (p-value 0.05). MUN had high negative relationwith LY(K/µl) and high positive relation with BUN, GGT, CHO.(p-value 0.01). The number of milking days was in high positiverelationship with LY(K/µl), MO(K/µl), Hb(g/dL), HCT(%) (p-value0.01) and NE(K/µl), EO(K/µl), RBC(M/µl), PLT(K/µl) (p-value 0.05).In the milk ketone body level, 23 cows of 29 cows were in normalrage(0~0.5mg/dl) and 6 cows were in suspected positiverange(1mg/dl), and then 2 suspected positive cows had clinical signslike anorexia, depression. A cow of these 2 cows was in abnormal milkketone body level and abnormal blood sugar level and then was culledby bad prognosis. In blood sugar level, at 7days after parturition, 10cows of 34 cows were in abnormal range and at parturition day, 6 cowsof 18 cows were in abnormal range. So blood sugar level had atendency to show high level of blood sugar at parturitionday. Therefore these results are thought that can be used to comparewith the aspects of metabolic diseases and for prevention andprediction of metabolic diseases we need more study from now on.Key words: metabolic disease, cow, chemistry

471 Influence of a High Potassium Diet on MineralConcentrations in Blood and Urine and on Indicators forEarly Detection of Acid-Base Changes in Dairy Cows

M. Rérat1, A. Philipp1,2, H. Hess1, A. Liesegang2

1 Agroscope Liebefeld-Posieux Research Station ALP, Posieux,Switzerland

2 Institute of Animal Nutrition, Vetsuisse Faculty, University Zürich,Zürich, Switzerland

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of two diets, fed duringthe transition period and differing in their potassium content, on mineralconcentrations in blood and urine around calving. Five weeks beforecalving, 12 cows were allocated to two groups (K35 and K15). Duringthe prepartum period, the cows of group K35 received a diet based on haywith high potassium content (35 g/kg DM) while the cows of group K15received a diet based on hay with low potassium content (15 g/kg DM).The two diets differed only in their potassium content. The dietarycation-anion balance (DCAB) of diets K15 and K35 was 209±18 and492±18 meq/kg DM, respectively. Blood and urine samples were takenat the beginning of the trial; three, two, and one week before parturition;three days before parturition; at parturition, and 24h after parturition.Concentrations of minerals (Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, and Cl) were analyzed inblood and urine. Net-acid-base excretion (NABE), base-acid-quotient(BAQ), and pH in urine were determined to observe changes in acid-basehomeostasis. No consistent differences in mineral concentrations inblood and urine were observed between the two groups. Only the bloodconcentration of Mg in group K15 increased (P < 0.05) during the lastdays before parturition and a significantly (P < 0.05) higher urinaryexcretion of potassium in group K35 from three weeks to three daysprepartum was observed. Urinary pH was significantly lower in groupK15 three days before parturition than in group K35. In group K15 NABEand BAQ were significantly (P < 0.05) lower two weeks, one week andthree days before parturition than in group K35. These results showed thatthe reduction of potassium content in the diet of dairy cows beforeparturition induced a change in acid-base homeostasis reducing themetabolic alkalosis. The indicators NABE and BAQ showed this changeearlier than urine pH and could be useful tools to detect early changes inacid-base status in the periparturient cow.

472 The Concentration of Zinc in Goat´s Milk during Short TermSupplementation of Different Forms of Zinc

A. Pechová, L. Mi_urová, L. Pavlata, R. Dvorák University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Clinic ofRuminants, Brno, Czech Republic

The aim of this experiment was to study dynamics of changes in zincconcentration in goat milk after a short-term oral supplementation of threeorganic and one inorganic form of zinc (Zn). Four different forms of Znsupplementation were compared on fifth groups of lactating goats (32animals as total). The first group was used as control (C, n=7), the second(L, n=6) received zinc in the form of lactate (Zinc Chelate, Agrobac, CR),the third (A, n=6) received zinc in the form of chelate (Bioplex Zn,Alltech, USA), the fourth (T, n=6) received amino acid-polypeptidiccomplex with zinc (Transfer Zn 15 %) and the fifth group (O, n=6)received zinc in inorganic form as zinc oxid (ZnO). Individual forms ofzinc were administered orally after the morning feeding at 500 mg Zn perhead/day within the period of 30 days. Zinc concentration in milk wasfollowed daily while its level in serum was estimated at the beginning,after 2 weeks and at the end of the experiment. At the beginning of theexperiment Zn concentration in serum of goats in individual groups wereas follows: C 10.6±2.5 µmol/l; L 10.7±1.4 µmol/l; A 10.4±1.2 µmol/l; T10.7±2.1 µmol/l; O 10.5±1.5 µmol/l. In the course of the experiment Znconcentration increased significantly in all experimental groups after 2weeks and in the control group was concentration of Zn in serum almostthe same as at the start of the experiment. At the end of the experiment Znconcentration in blood serum of goats in individual groups were asfollows: C 10.8±0.8 µmol/l; L 12.9±2.3 µmol/l; A 12.2±1.0 µmol/l; T12.6±1.0 µmol/l; O 12.2±1.2 µmol/l. The concentrations of zinc in milkwere at the beginning of the experiment as follows: C 37.6±9.8 µmol/l; L31.8±9.0 µmol/l; A 38.8±3.5 µmol/l; T 35.9±5.9 µmol/l; O 37.2±7.9µmol/l. During the experiment the concentration of zinc fluctuated inindividual groups, but there were no significant differences betweengroups. After 30 days of Zn supplementation Zn concentration in milk ofgoats in individual groups were similar as at the start of the experiment.According to our results the supplementation of different form of zinc did




not influence the concentration of Zn in milk, but significantly influencedthe Zn concentration in blood serum. The efficiency of different organicand inorganic forms of zinc was almost the same.The work was realized with the support of MSM Project No.6215712403. Key words: microelements, serum, Zn

473 The Evaluation of Coagulation Profiles in Cows withAbomasal Displacement

P. Sobiech, Z. Kuleta, J. Radwinska University of Warmia and Mazury, Department of Internal Medicine,Olsztyn, Poland

Abomasal displacement occurs in high-yelding cows during earlylactation. The most common form of this disease is left abomasaldisplacement, in which the abomasum is trapped between the rumenand the left abdominal wall. The purpose of the study was to evaluatecoagulation profile in cows with this disorder. Material and methods: Tests were carried out on 20 cows of H-F breed(Holstein Friesian) divided into two groups: the first group 10 cows withleft abomasal displacement, the second 10 healthy cows. Diagnosis ofabomasal displacement was confirmed by abdominal ausculopercussion,rectal examination and verified by operation. Laboratory tests includedmarking, using CoA Chrom 3003 BIO-KSEL Apparatus, suchparameters as: prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen concentration (FIB),activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), levelof antithrombin III (AT III) and level of D-Dimer.Results: Mean values of determined parameters amounted in cattle withabomasal displacement: PT 20,43 sec., FIB 7,99 g/l, APTT 47,31 sec., TT26,63 sec., AT III 81,33 %, D-Dim 849,33 µg/l. In healthy cows theseparameters reached values as follows: PT- 25,12 sec, FIB 4,15 g/l, APTT33,71 sec., TT 24,84 sec., AT III 111,12 %, D-Dim 286,15 µg/l.Discussion: In this study it was found that cattle with left abomasaldisplacement had significantly higher fibrinogen level, APTT time andextremely high D-dimer level together with significantly lower AT IIIlevel. Obtained results indicated, that ill cows showed abnormalcoagulation profile which reflect the occurrence of disseminatedintravascular coagulation syndrome (DIC). The laboratory diagnosis ofDIC is based on prolonged APTT, PT, hypofibrinogenaemia, decreasedconcentration of coagulation factors, increased D-Dim level anddecreased AT III activity. A diagnosis of DIC is concerning when atleast three tests in coagulation profile are abnormal. According withliterature data, DIC is very common complication in cattle withabomasal displacement, especially with right displacement, which isusually accompanied by a degree of volvulus. Conclusion: During left abomasal displacement in cows occurreddisseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome with different levelof coagulation abnormalities.

474 Bread Leftovers Utilization in Cattle Rations in Tadla Area

A. Ilham, M. Mazouz, S. AlaliInstitut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Morocco, PathologieMédicale et Chirurgicale des Ruminants, Rabat, Morocco

The present study aimed to evaluate the importance of bread leftoversutilization by cattle producers in Tadla area in Morocco and to assess theirnutritive value as well as their effects on dairy cow performances anddiseases incidence. A follow up study was conducted during 3 months tocompare the performances and the diseases occurrence in a sampleconsisting of 12 dairy farms among which 6 farms totalizing 51 cows usedbread leftovers all the year around (F1) and the 6 others composed of 53cows that have never used them (F2). The main results obtained are asfollows:- Among all cattle producers in Tadla area, 35.8 % supplemented therations with bread leftovers from which 16.4 % used them all the yeararound and 19.4 % only during periods of feed shortage. - The total quantity of bread leftovers used per year in Tadla area wasestimated to about 5230 metric tons.- The incorporation rate of bread leftovers in the concentrate portion ofcattle rations varied from 20 to 100 % with an average rate of 30 %. Thedaily quantities used varied between 2 and 6 kg per cow with anaverage of 2.3 kg.- The composition per kg of bread leftovers was: 88.1% DM, 0.9% CF,11.9% CP and 3.6% Ash. The nutritive value was: 1.28 UFL (Frenchdairy feed unit) / kg DM and 104.4g DCP / kg DM.

- There was no significant difference between F1 and F2 regarding milkproduction and body live weight. However, the body condition score wasin favour of cows of F1 and the milk fat test was 1.27 % higher in F2.- The incidence of health problems was higher in F1 compared to F2.Thus, abortion, acidosis and bloat rates were 15.7 vs. 7.4 %, 9.8 vs. 3.7% and 11.8% vs. 5% respectively in F1 and F2.65Key words: bread leftovers, nutritive value, dairy cattle, performances,health problems

475 Influence of Diarrhoea on Chosen Indicators of the BloodCoagulation System at Dairy Cattle

J. Radwinska, Z. Kuleta, P. Sobiech University of Warmia and Mazury, Department of Internal Medicine,Olsztyn, Poland

Objectives of study: In cattle breeding important is prevention andtreatment of diarrhoeas. There are many factors causing diarrhoea. Theaim research was evaluation of diarrhoea influence on chosenindicators of the blood clotting system at the dairy cattle. Material and methods: Research was passed on 2 groups of dairycows. In group I were 16 cows with diarrhoea. Group II - 20 healthycows (control group). The blood were taken from jugular vein.Coagulation factors were marked in blood plasma. To the laboratoryanalysis was used photometer Coag-Chorm 3003 (Bio-Ksel). Duringresearch were marked: prothrombin time(PT), thrombin time(TT),activated partial thromboplastin time(kaolin-kephalin time, APTT),fibrinogen, antithrombinIII(ATIII) and D-dimer. During research wasnot identify primary reason of diarrhoea.Results: There were changes in times length between ill and healthycows. PT at cows with diarrhoea was longer than in healthy. There wasan APTT extension (mean APTT at group I - 37,675s and group II -34,24s). In group I a mean TT was 31,39s in group II 26,44s.Fibrinogen concentration at ill cattle increased (6,61g/l) to healthycattle (5,24g/l). Mean value of D-dimer in group I and II differed about103 µg/l. ATIII in each groups were: group I 108,7% and group II107,7%. PT describes exogenous tract and APTT characterizeendogenous track of the blood clotting. The extension of PT isobserved in deficiency of II, V, VII, X factors. All mentioned factorsare dependent on vitamin K. A length of APTT is connected with II, V,X, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII factors. The PT prolongation might beconnected with vitamin K malabsorption. This can be induced bychanged bacterial flora in intestines (production vitamin K) or handicapabsorption from alimentary canal (damages at intestine epitheliumduring infections). An increased D-dimer concentration (product ofdigestion stabilized fibrin) and TT prolongation (measures activity offibrinogen) at the group I were connected with long PT and APTT. Thiscan be an evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) incow organism. Increased concentration of fibrinogen is DIC laboratorysymptom. The activity of ATIII did not differ at sick and health cattle.Conclusions: Diseases with diarrhoea have influence on wholeorganism also on blood coagulation system. Abnormality in this systemcan lead to serious problems like DIC.

476 Diagnostic Use of Pooled Metabolic Profiles in Czech DairyHerds

J. Davidek1, R. Van Saun2

1 Practitioner, Krasna Hora nad Vltavou, Czech Republic2 Penn State University, Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences,

University Park, United States

Study objective was to compare blood analyte concentrations collectedat different periods relative to calving to determine diagnostic value inherd-based assessment of transition cow problems. In the course ofclinical investigations on 37 dairy herds presented for variousperiparturient diseases or routine monitoring, blood was sampled from3 to 7 mature cows within defined time periods to run a pooled samplemetabolic profile. Time periods were defined as (days relative tocalving): Early Dry (>30 d prior), Close-up (<21 d prior) and Fresh (3-50 following). Analytes determined in metabolic profiles included ureanitrogen (UN), glucose (Glu), albumin (Alb), total protein (TP),aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT),sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), phosphorus(P), magnesium (Mg), total cholesterol (Chol), ‚-hydroxybutyrate(BHB) and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA). A wide range of healthand feed-related problems were identified and used to assign collective




health group (HG) categories for analysis. Blood analytes wereanalyzed by ANOVA with main effects of period, HG and theirinteraction with herd as a covariate. Herds ranged in size from 100 to750 cows with Holstein and Simmental being the predominate breeds.A total of 40 metabolic profiles were performed. Herds werecategorized into HG of no problems (NP, n=6), heat stress (HS, n=6),fresh cow diseases (FD, n=16), low production (LP, n=5) and otherdiseases (OD, n=7). Time period influenced (P<.0001) NEFA, Glu,Chol, BHB, TP, Na, Cl and AST concentrations. Health groupinfluenced NEFA (P=.003), Glu (P<.0001), Chol (P=.01), Alb(P=.0003), TP (P=.04), Ca (P=.0003), K (P<.0001) and UN (P=.01)concentrations. Both AST and P tended (P=.09) to be influenced byHG. Of interest was the absence of HG effect on BHB concentration,though there was a tendency (P=.06) for a period by HG interaction. Noother interactions were found. Within each period, NP herds generallyhad lower NEFA and TP and higher Glu, Alb, Ca, Chol and Kcompared to other HG herds, though mean comparison significancevaried by HG within and across time periods. Study results suggestpooled samples can provide diagnostic information in detectingperiparturient health problems. Variation in HG effects on bloodanalytes over time relative to calving suggests potential analytepatterns that may provide herd-based disease diagnostic criteria.Key words: metabolic profile

477 Characterizing Analyte Patterns in Pooled Metabolic Profilesfor Disease Diagnosis

J. Davidek1, R. VanSaun2

1 Practitioner, Krasna Hora nad Vltavou, Czech Republic2 Penn State University, Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences,

University Park, United States

Study objective was to compare blood analyte concentrations collectedat different periods relative to calving to determine diagnostic value inherd-based assessment of transition cow problems. Forty metabolicprofiles were performed on 37 dairy herds presented for variousperiparturient diseases or routine monitoring. Herd size ranged from100 to 750 cows with Holstein and Simmental being the predominatebreeds. Blood was sampled from 3 to 7 mature cows within definedtime periods to run a pooled sample metabolic profile. Time periodsrelative to calving day were defined as: Early Dry (ED, >30 d prior),Close-up (CU, <21 d prior) and Fresh (FR, 3-50 d following). Analytesdetermined in metabolic profiles included urea nitrogen (UN), glucose(Glu), albumin (Alb), total protein (TP), aspartate aminotransferase(AST), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), sodium (Na), potassium(K), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg),total cholesterol (Chol), ‚-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and nonesterifiedfatty acids (NEFA). Based on clinical diagnosis, herds werecategorized into health groups (HG) of: no problems (NP, n=6), heatstress (HS, n=6), fresh cow diseases (FD, n=16), low production (LP,n=5) and other diseases (OD, n=7). Blood analytes were analyzed byANOVA with main effects of period, HG and their interaction withherd as a covariate. Paired comparisons between NP and other HGherds were performed to characterize analyte pattern differences. Herdsexperiencing HS showed the most alterations in blood analyteconcentrations having higher NEFA (P<.0001) and Cl (P=.005) andlower Gluc (P<.0001), Chol (P=.001), Alb (P=.0005), Ca (P<.0001), P(P=.02) and K (P<.0001) concentrations across periods. Both BHB(P=.03) and AST (P=.04) were higher in HS herds only in the FRperiod. Herds with FD showed higher NEFA (P=.008), BHB (P=.04)and AST (P=.05) and lower Alb (P=.0001). A period by HG interaction(P=.005) showed higher FR period BHB concentrations in FD herds.Low production herds showed only differences with lower Chol(P=.02) and Urea (P=.0007) in ED and CU periods and higher AST(P=.02) in CU period. Health effects of OD found higher CU and FRNEFA (P=.0001) and ED and CU TP (P=.02) compared to NP herds.Results of this study suggest differential patterns of pooled bloodanalyte changes around the time of calving are associated with specificdisease conditions and have herd-based diagnostic potential.Key words: metabolic profiles, periparturient disease

478 Interpretation of Pooled Metabolic Profiles for HerdAssessment

J. Davidek1, R. VanSaun2

1 Practitioner, Krasna Hora nad Vltavou, Czech Republic2 Penn State University, University Park, United States

Study objective was to evaluate diagnostic reference criteria fordetermining if pooled sample blood analyte concentrations candifferentiate dairy herds with and without health problems. Fortymetabolic profiles were completed on 37 dairy herds presented forvarious periparturient diseases or routine monitoring. Blood sampleswere collected from 3 to 7 mature cows during defined time periodsrelative to calving and pooled prior to analysis. Time periods relative tocalving day were defined as: Early Dry (ED, >30 d prior), Close-up (CU,<21 d prior) and Fresh (FR, 3-50 d following). Analytes determined inmetabolic profiles included urea nitrogen (UN), glucose (Glu), albumin(Alb), total protein (TP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl),calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), total cholesterol (Chol),‚-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA). Basedon clinical diagnosis, herds were categorized into health groups (HG) of:no problems (NP, n=6), heat stress (HS, n=6), fresh cow diseases (FD,n=16), low production (LP, n=5) and other diseases (OD, n=7). For eachanalyte measured, the pooled sample value was subtracted from a herd-based reference value and divided by the analyte’s standard deviation(SD) for a given time period. T-test was used to determine if deviationwas different from zero. Analyte deviations were analyzed by ANOVAwith main effects of period, HG and their interaction with herd as acovariate. Within NP herds, analyte deviations different (P<.05) fromzero within periods were NEFA (ED, FR), Na (CU, FR), Cl and AST(CU) and Glu, P, Mg and K (FR). Mean analyte deviation for ED, CUand FR periods for NP herds were .29, .43 and .37 SD, respectively.These deviations were analyte-specific and potentially influenced byperiod. Collectively, HG influenced deviation of NEFA (.85 SD,P=.002), UN (-.62 SD, P=.001), Alb (-.48 SD, P=.0003), Ca (-.29,P=.007) and AST (1.3 SD, P=.02) with a HG by period effect on BHB(FR, 1.1 SD, P=.02). However, significance, magnitude of analytedeviation and period effects were specific to and differed between HG.Results suggest evaluation of pooled samples based on number of SD thesample value deviates from herd-based population reference values havediagnostic potential. Pattern of analyte deviation and period mightprovide insight to specific disease present in a herd. Key words: metabolic profile, diagnostic

479 Intake, Apparent Digestibility, Ruminal and BloodComponents of Holstein Cows Fed Extruded Ground Canolawith or without Lignosulfonato

G. Santos1, C. Neves2, D. Silva2, W. Santos2, C. Jobim1,A. Branco1, F. Santos3

1 Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Zootecnia, Maringá, PR, Brazil2 Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Programa de Pós-graduaçio em

Zootecnia, Maringá, PR, Brazil3 Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Student, Maringá, PR, Brazil

The objective of this research was to evaluate the Holstein cows intake,digestibility, ruminal parameters and blood components, fed withground canola (GC), extruded ground canola (EC), ground canola withLignosulfonato (GCL) and extruded ground canola with lignosulfonate(ECL). Eight cows, divided in a double Latin square, with fourtreatments and four periods with 21 days each, were utilized. Intake andtotal apparent digestibility of nutrients were estimated, while rumenvolatile fatty acids (VFA), ammonia N-NH3 and pH were evaluated.Differences were not observed in the dry matter (DM), crude protein(CP), neuter detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF)intake, however, the extruded treatments presented larger ingestion ofether extract (EE). We can still mention that the association betweenthe extrusion and the lignosulfonato in the canola seeds stimulated theconsumption of Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC). Anotherparameter that suffered alterations was the apparent digestibility, whichwas smaller for the animals fed with CGCL in comparison with theCGC. However, it was not observed alterations in the DM, OM, CP,ADF, NDF and NSC digestibility for EGC and EGCL treatments. Forrumen components, such like N-NH3 (mg/dL), VFA and pH and alsoblood parameters, any alteration was not observed in the cows fed withGC, EC, GCL and ECL treatments. In conclusion that there are notdifferences that justify the canola seeds processing or it lignosulfonatetreatment, since the results obtained with the crushed canola didn’tdiffer a lot of the other treatments, even if the processing of the canolawould have an extra cost for the producer.The project was supported by the Fundaçao Araucaria, Curitiba, PRand CNPq, Brasilia, DF, Brazil Key words: extrusion, fat, heat treatment, chemical treatment




480 Mineral Metabolism during Late Pregnancy and CalciumStatus after Parturition in Dairy Cows

M. Casalone1, C. Cannizzo1, A. Stefani2, L. Moro2,M. Gianesella1, M. Morgante1

1 Universita’degli Studi di Padova, Dipartimento di Scienze ClinicheVeterinarie, Legnaro (PD), Italy

2 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro (PD),Italy

Milk fever represent one of the most important economic losses in dairycows management, therefore to found some indicators (blood parametersor functional test) before calving should be very important for theprevention of hypocalcaemia and related disorders. The objective of thiswork was to study some blood and urinary excretion parameters duringlate pregnancy that could be related with the calcium status afterparturition. 60 dairy cows from a farm located in the North of Italy withhigh incidence of milk fever were monitored 7 (±2) days before calvingand 24h after calving: blood and urine samples were simultaneouslycollected for creatinine (Cr), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium(Mg), sodium (Na) and potassium (K) determination. Fractional excretion(%CrX) of electrolytes were calculated by the following formula: %CrX= Xu/Xp x Crp/Cru x 100 where “u” and “p” were the urinary andplasmatic concentration, respectively. Results were subject to ANOVAand correlation analysis using SIGMA STAT 3.05. Blood level of Ca afterparturition show only a significant (P < 0.05) correlation (+ 0.490) withthe blood level of Mg during late pregnancy but the results indicated thatthere were several significant correlation between the urinary level of Caafter parturition and some parameters during late pregnancy: in particularwith the blood level of P (+ 0.378), with the urinary level of Ca (+ 0.384),P (+ 0.401) and Mg (+ 0.277) and with the fractional excretion of Ca (+0.360) and P (+ 0.374). These data suggest that modifications of someblood and urinary parameters during late pregnancy could be related withthe calcium metabolism after parturition. Although no animal developedany hypocalcaemia status post partum, this data suggest that it could bevery important to do further studies especially on Ca and P excretionbefore calving to found useful indicators for risk evaluation of single cowsregarding the probability to develop hypocalcaemia and related disordersafter parturition.

481 Effect of Glycerol-containing Preparation on Changes inSelected Parameters of Dairy Cows in Experimental and FieldConditions

Z. Farkasova1, P. Reichel1, K. Kovacocyova1, M. Fabini2,A. Bobus2, G. Kovac1

1 University of Veterinary Medicine, Department of InternalMedicine, Kosice, Slovakia

2 Polychem s r. o., polychem, Prievidza, Slovakia

The aim of our study was to determine the effects of glycerol-containingpreparation on changes in selected parameters in rumen fluid (volatile fattyacids - VFA, acidity - pH), blood serum (glucose, total cholesterol - TCH,total lipids - TL, triglycerides - TG, nonesterified fatty acid - NEFA, beta-hydroxybutyrate - BHB), and milk (fat, protein, urea) of dairy cows. Theobservation was aimed at prevention of lipomobilisation syndrome ofcows during peri-partal period. In experimental conditions we determinedoptimal dose of glycerol from three selected concentrations. We used 150,200, 300 g/day/cow in 24 dairy cows. In the third experimental group(300g) the positive effects were recorded. The following observations weredone in herd of 210 Holstein-Friesian dairy cows kept in loose housingwith annual milk yield of 8500L. Glycerol bound to powder vehicle wasadded to the diet at the dose of 320g per animal and day for 35 days (3weeks before and 3 weeks after parturition). To compare glycerol effectson health and production, 12 experimental cows were selected and dividedretrospectively by date of calving into two groups E1 (n = 6) and E2 (n =6), and by the period of glycerol intake before and after parturition (E1<25days a. p. and 10 days p. p.; E2<8 days a. p. and 27 days p. p.). The resultsof analyses were compared with control group (n = 6) fed the same dietwithout glycerol addition (C<7 days a. p. and 28 days p. p.). Samples(blood, rumen fluid, milk) were collected three times: I. 3 weeks a. p., II.7th- 10th day p. p., III. after 30th day of glycerol feeding. We expected thepositive effect of glycerol (as a glucoplastic substance) on changes of pH,as well as on decrease of acetate to propionate ratio, the NEFA and BHBconcentrations, and increase in glucose concentrations in blood serum. Theresults indicated antilipolytic, hepatoprotective, and glucoplastic effects ofglycerol, particularly in the group with longer glycerol administration in

post-partal period (E2) compared with the control group. Glycerol additionto the diet showed also favourable effects on quantitative and qualitativeparameters of milk production and milk profile.Key words: dairy cows, glycerol, milk production, prevention oflipomobilisation syndrome

482 Preventive Diagnosis in Dried Cows on Two Farms with theMonitoring of Clinically Manifested Problems during theLactation Phase.

V. Petrovic, G. Kovac, P. Reichel, P. Mudron, O. Nagy, H. Seidel,R. Link, I. Pavlikova, J. Novotny, V. Hisira University of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Cattle and SheepDiseases, Kosice, Slovakia

The aim of this study was to compare some parameters obtained frompreventive diagnosis of Slovak spotted cows (Ssc) and Holstein-Friesian cows (HFc) in dry period with the monitoring of clinicallymanifested problems during the lactation phase. The housing, nutrition,zootechnical conditions, prevention and treatment of locomotion andreproductive problems were similar on both farms but milk yields wereup to 7 l higher on a farm with HF herd. Ten healthy cows in dry periodwere preventively diagnosed in each herd and clinically monitored inlactation phase to intercept the productive and reproductive problems.The preventive diagnosis included enzymatic, hepatic, protein, energy,vitamin, element, rumen, urine profiles. The lower AST, GMTactivities were found in Ssc only and increased LDH activity in 80% ofSsc vs 20% of HFc. The increased albumin was determined in 40% ofSsc only, whereas increased TIg in all vs half of animals in a herd.Lower concentrations of vitamins and Ca were found in cows on bothfarms, but with up to 50% of HFc. Concentration of Fe was decreasedin probably half and Cu, Se in all of animals on both farms.Disproportion of Mg and Zn was found in more then 50% of Ssc only.Plasma Glu was higher in 80% vs 30% and NEFA in 20% of animals inboth herds, whereas amount of TL was higher in 20% of Ssc only.Rumen pH was increased in 60% vs 20% of animals in a herd as wellas butyrate. Lower propionate was assessed in all cows, but 80% of Sschad NEFA beyond the physiological range. Acetate and lactateconcentrations were higher in HFc only. The C2:C3 ratio was enhancedin rumen fluid of all tested cows. Urine pH was elevated in more then60% of animals, but the incidence of increased level of NABE wasfound 3 times higher in herd of HFc. Elevated concentrations of Ca, Na,K and Mg in excreted urine were found in up to 50% of Ssc vs 20% ofHFc for each parameter. The clinical monitoring of cows in lactationphase revealed the frequent occurrence of retained placenta withsubsequent endometritis in cows on both farms. Higher concentrationof BHB was determined in 20% of HFc only, but without any signs ofclinical manifestation of acute ketosis. In conclusions, the comparisonof parameters from preventive diagnosis on both farms revealed betterphysiological status of HFc in the dry period but the high production ofmilk, as mentioned above, resulted in subclinical ketosis during thelactation phase. Key words: dried cows, preventive diagnosis

483 Study the Effects of Dry Period Length on ReproductiveIndexes after Following Parturition

M. Mohammadsadegh1, S. Lotfolllahzadeh2, AR. Bahonar3,M. Gahry1

1 Islamic Azad University, Garmsar branch, Large Animal Clinic forTheriogenology and Ambulatory Services, Garmsar, Iran

2 Islamic Azad University, Garmsar branch, Large Animal ClinicalSciences, Garmsar, Iran

3 Facutly of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, FoodHygiene, Tehran, Iran

Most of the literature indicates that a dry period (DP) of 40 to 60 d isneeded to achieve maximum milk yield during the followinglactation (Coppock et al., 1974; Sorensen and Enevoldsen, 1991;reviewed by Bachman and Schairer, 2003). Other research indicatesthat a DP of 30 d is sufficient to maintain milk (Lotan and Adler,1976; Bachman, 2002; Gulay et al., 2003). Nevertheless, a shortenedDP seemed to reduce milk production in primiparous, but notmultiparous, cows in a recent study (Annen et al., 2004) and ourrecent study found somewhat of a reduction in milk production perday, but not in FCM production (Rastani et al., 2005). Informationrelating the effects of DP to subsequent reproductive performance of




lactating cows is sparse. Lotan and Adler (1976) reported that daysopen, number of inseminations, and pregnancy rates for 18 pairs ofdairy cows having DP of 30 and 60 d were numerically similar.Remond et al. (1997) reported that BW of cows with no planned DPincreased 24 kg in the first 60 DIM, whereas BW of cows with a 60-d DP lost 28 kg during same time period. We speculated that cowswith a DP of 56 d would be in more negative EB than cows with noplanned DP due to reduced milk production in cows with no plannedDP. Thus, cows with no planned DP were expected to ovulate earlierthan cows with a 56-d DP; whereas cows with a 28-d DP wereexpected to be intermediate in days to first ovulation based on anexpected intermediate level of negative EB. At the base of theimportance of dry period management on the following milkproduction, mastitis rates, reproductive indexes and normal life ofcows in after following parturition, the effects of different lengths ofdry period on reproductive indexes were to be evaluated .Onehundred Holstein dairy cows from 10/5/85 to 25/6/86 were selectedfrom Bonyad Janbazan Shohada dairy farm in Razan Hamadan(Iran). In depended variable was the length of dry period anddepended variables were reproductive indexes (1- parturition to firstservice, 2- days open, 3- numbers of service to pregnancy, 4-mastitis rate on the first month of lactation). Control variables were1- pick of milk production, 2- BCS at the breeding, 3- number oflactation. Fisher Exact test and General Linear Model were used tostatistical analysis. It is concluded that there was no correlationbetween dry period length and reproductive indices. Key words: dry period length, reproductive indices, cattle

484 The Use of Calcium Chloride and Calcium Sulfate in an OralBolus as a Supplement for Post-partum Dairy Cows

J. Spain1, J. Sampson1, L. Carstensen2, C. Jones3

1 University of Missouri, Department of Animal Science, Columbia,United States

2 Boehringer Ingelheim Denmark, Division Vetmedica, Copenhagen,Denmark

3 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc, St. Joseph, United States

Objective: The onset of lactation results in a sudden demand forcalcium and imposes challenges to calcium homeostasis in cows. Cowsunable to adapt to the calcium demand, develop hypocalcemia(incidences 23-39 %), which may manifest itself as milk fever (5-10%).This also increases the risk of periparturient disorders. With systemicacidification, PTH sensitivity is increased resulting in enhancingcalcium mobilization from bone to blood. When the systemic pH iseffectively decreased, urine pH values (pH 7.8) will decrease to a rangebetween 6.2 and 6.8. The objective of this study was to investigate theeffects of Bovikalc® (Boehringer Ingelheim, St. Joseph, USA), an oralcalcium supplement containing CaCl and CaSo4, on calciumhomeostasis during the first 24 h after calving.Materials and Methods: Multiparous Holsteins (n = 20) were blockedby parity and day of calving and randomly assigned to either Control(C) group receiving no calcium supplement or treated (B) groupreceiving one bolus directly after calving and a second bolus 12 h later.Blood samples were drawn at 48 and 24 h before calving. Ionized bloodcalcium (iCa) was measured using an IDEXX Vet Stat Analyzer. Cowswith an iCa level of 1.10 mmol/L or less were included in the study.Blood and urine samples were collected at 0, 1, 6, 12, 13, and 24 h postpartum. Blood iCa and pH and urine pH were measured.Results: No differences in iCa levels were found between C and Bgroups (1.24 vs. 1.22; 1.19 vs. 1.18 mmol/L) at -48 and -24 h,respectively. iCa levels were similar at calving (0h, 0.95 vs. 0.94mmol/L) for C and B, respectively (p = 0.84). Thereafter, iCa levelswere significantly higher in cows given the bolus as described (p =0.02). Urine pH differed with treatment (p = 0.002) and by treatmentover time (p = 0.003). It decreased in B cows from 7.58 (0h) to 6.79(24h) compared to 8.00 (0h) to 8.09 (24h) for C cows. Blood pH didnot change (p = 0.27) which reflects a tight homeostatic regulation ofblood pH. Calcium supplementation with Bovikalc® after calvingdecreased urine pH and increased iCa levels compared to controlcows.Conclusions: By 2 administrations of Bovikalc® with its two calciumcomponents it was possible to increase the iCa level in blood ofhypocalcemic cows significantly. Additionally it was shown thatBovikalc® had a systemic acidifying effect which most likely enhancesmobilization of the cow’s own calcium.Key words: dairy cows, hypocalcemia, calcium supplement

485 The Microelements (MCEs) Supplementation by MineralLick (ML) and the Level of MCEs in the Blood, Colostrumand Milk of Dairy Cows

S. Krys, A. Podhorsky, E. Lokajova, L. Pavlata University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciencies Brno, Clinicfor Ruminants, Brno, Czech Republic

The aim of this experiment was to verify the option of providingMCEs supplementation to dairy cows (DC) in the dry period throughsupplemented ML, and to then compare the content of MCEs in theblood, colostrum and milk of supplemented and of non-supplementedDC. The experiment was carried out on Czech Pied DC. We formedan experimental group (E, n=12), which was supplied with ML ad lib.enhanced with organic forms of MCEs (Se, Zn, Cu, Mn) for 4 to 5weeks before parturition and 1 week after parturition (a.p.). Thecontrol group (C, n=10) did not get any ML. Samples of blood weretaken 14 days before calving, on the calving day, 4th and 20th day a.p.Samples of milk and colostrum were taken on the day of parturition(day 0) and then on days 1, 2, 3, 4 and 20 a.p. Reception of ML by DCwas very uneven, its total consumption ranged from 0 to 0.25kg/animal/day. ML feeding did not result in evidential increase ofconcentrations of MCEs in DC blood. Only a trend to increasedconcentrations of Se and Cu in blood of E group was observed, wherethe average Se concentration increased by 60 µg/l (Cu by 9 µmol/l),while in C group, Se increased only by 30 µg/l (Cu by 6 µmol/l).Neither concentration of monitored MCEs in colostrum and milkpointed to a conclusive difference between groups (averageconcentration of MCEs in first colostrum in groups E and C was asfollows: Se 115 vs. 102 µg/l; Cu 2.0 vs. 1.6 µmol/l; Zn 317 vs. 363µmol/l; Mn 0.6 vs. 0.4 µmol/l). The concentration of MCEs incolostrum a.p. dropped quickly. Significant drops were determinedfor Se, Cu and Zn on the first (for Mn on the second) day a.p. Apartfrom Mn, all monitored MCEs showed significantly lower (p<0.05)concentration in milk (in groups E and C, concentrations were asfollows: Se 21 vs. 22 µg/l; Cu 0.6 vs. 0.75 µmol/l; Zn 79 vs. 78µmol/l; Mn 0.6 vs. 0.44 µmol/l) than in the first colostrum.Supplementation of MCEs to DC through ML thus does not appear tobe a proper method of supplementation, as the intake of ML is veryuneven and, in the E group, it did not ensure a conclusive increase inconcentrations of the MCEs in blood, colostrum and milk. Seconcentration in the first colostrum is 5 times higher than in milk, Cu3 times, Zn 4 times and Mn 1.3 times higher. The work was supported by the Research Project MSM6215712403.

486 Preliminary Results from an Ongoing Field Study on Studyon the Effect of Catosal in the Treatment of Sublinical Ketosisin Cows

P. Sarasola1, U. Aramendi1, U. Spiecker-Hauser2, B. Schmidt21 Ondax Scientific, CRO, Hondarribia, Spain2 Bayer HealthCare, R&D, Monheim, Germany

Objective: The aim of the present investigation was to assess theefficacy and safety of Catosal® in the treatment of subclinical ketosis incows.Materials and Methods: At the time of writing this abstract, there isan ongoing multi-centre, placebo-controlled, randomised and maskedfield study being conducted to evaluate the effects of Catosal® in thetreatment of subclinical ketosis in dairy cows. In this study, cows fromseveral dairy farms in Spain are screened by milk test (Ketolac BHB®,Biolab GmbH) within two weeks after calving. Cows with a positiveresponse (i.e. beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) milk levels >200 µmol/l)and absence of clinical signs of ketosis are enrolled in the study and arerandomized to one of three treatment groups: Two injections ofCatosal® (T1), one injection of Catosal® and one of saline (T2), twoinjections of saline (T3), administered intravenously on Days 0 and 3,respectively, at a dose volume of 5 ml/100 kg bodyweight. Bloodsamples for assessments of changes in BHB, glucose, glutamatedehydrogenase (GLDH), and cholesterol are collected on Days 0, 3,and 6, respectively. From this study, a subgroup of 17 animals showingbaseline serum BHB levels of >3.2 mmol/l and absence of clinicalsigns of ketosis was selected for an interim analysis.Results: The primary efficacy criterion was the treatment success, definedas the proportion of animals with serum BHB levels of >1.2 mmol/l ondays 3 and 6 in each treatment group. Results showed that 30% and 60% ofthe animals in T1 were classified as treatment successes on days 3 and 6,




respectively. In contrast, none of the animals in T2 and T3 was classified astreatment successes. This effect was confirmed by statistically significant(p<0.01) treatment differences on the evolution of serum BHB and glucoselevels over time. Serum levels of GLDH and cholesterol did not showtreatment-dependent changes in this preliminary analysis. All treatmentswere well tolerated. No treatment-related adverse events were observed.Conclusion: These preliminary results indicate that two injections ofCatosal® given twice at an interval of 3 days is safe and effective in thetreatment of subclinical ketosis in cows.Key words: Catosal, subclinical ketosis

487 Comparison of Different Forms of Glycerol Additives andtheir Effects on Selected Metabolic Parameters of Dairy Cows

P. Reichel1, Z. Farkasova1, K. Kovacocyova1, M. Fabini2,A. Bobus2, G. Kovac1

1 University of Veterinary Medicine, Department of InternalMedicine, Kosice, Slovakia

2 Polychem s r. o., Polychem, Prievidza, Slovakia

Glycerol as a glucoplastic substance is used for the prevention ofnutritional deficiencies in dairy cows, predominantly during transitionperiod till the top of lactation. The experiments were performed on twofarms with dairy cows during transition period. We studied the effects oflong-term feeding of different forms of glycerol additive on prevention oflipomobilisation syndrome of dairy cows. The selected metabolicparameters in blood serum and rumen fluid, and their effects on milkproduction and feed intake were evaluated: in the rumen fluid (volatilefatty acids - VFA, acidity pH, acetic acid, propionic acid, acetate topropionate ratio), in the blood serum (glucose, total cholesterol - TCH,total lipids - TL, triglycerides - TG, nonesterified fatty acid - NEFA, beta-hydroxybutyrate - BHB), and milk (milk-yield, fat, protein, urea). Theexperiment was done for 35 days (3 weeks before and 3 weeks afterparturition). Forty-two dairy cows were divided in two experiments. In thefirst experiment with liquid form of glycerol additives 24 cows weredivided in the control (n=12) and experimental group (n=12). In theexperiment with powder form of glycerol 18 cows were used: control(n=6), first experimental (n=6) and second experimental group (n=6). Theliquid form of glycerol additive was poured on to the food directly(300ml/two times of the day/cow) whereas the glycerol supplement inpowder form was admixed to diet (320g/cow/day). We found positiveantilipolytic, glucoplastic properties and the beneficial effects on health ofcows (significantly reduced negative energetic balance, increased foodintake), as well as on quantitative and qualitative parameters of milkproduction. In conclusion, the both forms of glycerol additive had similarpositive effect on the selected metabolic parameters in the blood serumand rumen fluid, on milk production, and feed intake. The powder form ofglycerol is better for its positive properties, practical application,manipulation, and buffer capacity of zeolite, which is interesting forpractical exploitation in field conditions.Key words: glycerol, dairy cows, prevention of ketosis,lipomobilisation syndrome

488 Comparation of Clinical and Biochemical Obseravations inCows with Physiological and Pathologic Course of PostpartalPeriod

J. Bires, M. Huska University of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Cattle and SheepDiseases, Kosice, Slovakia

In the work there is a comparison of the results of clinical andbiochemical observations in cows during prepartal and postpartalperiod with physiological and pathologic course of postpartal period.Examinations were carried out on 21 cows in time of 14 days beforeexpected parturition to 10 days of lactation. Clinical picture includingconditional state of cows before and after parturition and laboratoryexaminations (enzymatic, protein, energetic, hepatic and mineralprofile) was evaluated. The results of observations determinateddiagnostic value of clinical and laboratory examinations indetermination of course postpartal period in regard to production andreproduction activities, disease of cows, resp. They also showed onlimitation their biological interpretation in common field praxis, whichcould lead to incorrect results during application of metabolic profiletest and subsequent non-adequate recommendation in the farm of cows.Key words: dairy cows, parturition, clinical and biochemicalobservation

489 Non-Surgical Treatment of Abomasal Displacements withZeolite in Cattle

G. Aksoy, H. Biricik, I. Çamkerten, A. Da_ Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sanliurfa, Turkey

In this study; clinical efficacy of zeolite mineral in the medicaltreatment of left and right abomasal displacements was investigated.Seven cows (five with right displaced abomasum, two with left)were used. Diagnosis was based on routine clinical examinations.Laboratory findings before treatment were hypochloremia,hypokalemia, and hemoconcentration in three cows with rightdisplaced abomasum. Zeolite was administered orally for 3 days(twice a day, 2 g/kg) via a stomach tube. Patients were clinicallyexamined including ping effect, appetite and ruminal movementsfollowing zeolite administration. Blood samples for biochemicalanalysis were collected at 3rd day of the treatment. Furthermore,zeolite (50 g/day) was added to the ratio during 1.5 months toprevent recurrence. The ping effects on the flank had disappearedcompletely following fourth application in six cases. Clear rumenmotility increased after the second application and the cows startedconsuming food. Biochemical parameters and defecation returnednormal 72 hours after the treatment. Any recurrence wasencountered during 1.5 months. In a cow with right displacedabomasum, treatment was unsuccessful because of adhesion to theright abdominal wall. As a result, zeolite mineral may be part of thetherapy for displaced abomasums. Addition of zeolite to the ratio canprevent recurrence of displacements. Further studies need toinvestigate the efficacy of zeolite mineral on medical treatment ofabomasal displacements. Key words: zeolite, abomasal displacement, cattle

490 Control of Ruminal pH in an Acute Acidosis Model

J. Keane1, L. McLaughlin2, P. Thompson1, G. Greenwood2, I. Bruce1

1 Pfizer Animal Health, Veterinary Medical Research andDevelopment, Sandwich, United Kingdom

2 Pfizer Animal Health, Veterinary Medical Research andDevelopment, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States

Sub acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in beef cattle is associated withdecreased productivity, including decreased growth rate. Metabolismof high carbohydrate rations increases the concentration of ruminalVFAs and ruminal lactate resulting in ruminal pH below 5.5 (SARA)or 4.5 (acute acidosis). Acarbose is a pseudo-tetrasaccharide thatinhibits -amylase and glucosidase enzymes thus reducing the rate ofcarbohydrate digestion and was hypothesized to prevent acidosis inan acute challenge. Acute acidosis was induced in ruminallyfistulated steers by intraruminal administration of a highcarbohydrate load (12.5 g/kg liveweight; 48.4% ground corn, 48.4%corn starch, 2.1% sodium caseinate and 1.1% urea) mixed in 2-3gallons of water. Ruminal pH was measured every 15 min after thechallenge using a continuous recorder for the subsequent 24 hrs andrumen fluid samples were collected at 3 hour intervals for 12hours. When acute acidosis, defined as ruminal pH <4.5 and lactate>50 mM, was observed, ruminal contents were removed, the rumenwas washed out and then inoculated with rumen contents from adonor animal. If acidosis was not observed within 24 hours of the firstchallenge, a second challenge was performed and the same procedurewas followed for the subsequent 24 hours. When administered in thecarbohydrate load at a dose of 1.1 mg/kg body weight, acarboseprotected against acidosis in 6/7 animals compared with 3/7 controlanimals (c2 = 2.80, P<0.10). The equivalent amount of acarbosemixed in a small amount of total mixed ration consumed voluntarily,protected against acidosis induced by the carbohydrate load in 4/6animals compared with 1/7 control animals (c2 = 3.75, P<0.10). Inboth experiments, acarbose decreased ruminal total VFAconcentrations and percent propionate. In a third experiment usingthe same model, the efficacy of acarbose (1.1 mg/kg bodyweight,n=8) was compared with that of monensin (12 mg/kg dry matterintake, n=8), sodium bicarbonate (1% dry matter intake, n=7) andnegative control (n=7). Acute acidosis was induced in all control,monensin and sodium bicarbonate treated groups whereas acarboseprotected against acidosis in 5 of 8 animals (P=0.03 for allcomparisons to acarbose). It was concluded that acarbose effectivelycontrolled ruminal pH in this acute challenge model and was moreefficacious than monensin or sodium bicarbonate.




491 Effect of Acarbose on Milk Yield and Composition in EarlyLactation Dairy Cattle Fed a Ration to Induce Sub-acuteRuminal Acidosis (SARA)

J. Keane1, L. McLaughlin2, P. Thompson1, G. Greenwood2, I. Bruce1

1 Pfizer Animal Health, Veterinary Medicine Research andDevelopment, Sandwich, United Kingdom

2 Pfizer Animal Health, Veterinary Medicine Research andDevelopment, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States

SARA in dairy cattle is associated with decreased productivity,including decreased milk yield and milk fat. Metabolism of highcarbohydrate rations increases the concentration of ruminal VFAsand, in severe cases, ruminal lactate resulting in ruminal pH below5.5 (SARA) or 4.5 (acute acidosis). Acarbose is a pseudo-tetrasaccharide that inhibits -amylase and glucosidase enzymes thusreducing the rate of carbohydrate digestion and has beendemonstrated to maintain higher pH values by decreasing total VFAsand % propionate in an acute model of acidosis. To evaluate theefficacy of acarbose in managing low milk fat associated with SARAthirty early lactation Holstein cattle (average 101 days in milk) werefed a ration consisting of ground corn, soybean meal and corn silage(70:30 concentrate: fiber). The ration was shown to result in pH <5.5 for at least 4 hr/day for 80% of the days tested. Cattle weretrained to feed from Calan gates and were assigned to control or0.75g/animal/day acarbose added to the total mixed ration (TMR)according to a cross-over design. Animals were fed the assigned testration for 13 days and daily feed intake, milk yield and compositionwere measured for the subsequent 7 days of each 20-day cross-overperiod. Percent and yield of milk fat were increased in the acarbose-treated groups (3.33% vs. 3.04%, P<0.01 and 1158g/day vs.1035g/day, P=0.01, respectively). While milk yield was not affected,3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM) yield was increased in animalsreceiving acarbose (33.7 kg/d vs. 31.7 kg/d, P<0.01). In addition, drymatter feed intake was increased in the animals receiving acarbose(22.2 kg/d vs. 20.7 kg/d, P<0.01). In a second experiment using thesame design and ration, thirty animals approximately 80 days in milkwere encouraged to consume a large meal by being fasted for 3 hrsprior to the daily feeding. Under these conditions, percent and yieldof milk fat were increased (3.16% vs. 2.67%, P<0.01 and 1229g/d vs.1047g/d, P<0.01, respectively) in animals receiving acarbose.Although milk yield was not affected, 3.5% FCM yield wasincreased in animals receiving acarbose (36.9kg/d vs. 33.9kg/d,P<0.01). In addition, dry matter feed intake was increased (22.5kg/dvs. 21.8kg/d, P<0.04). It was concluded that acarbose corrected thedecreased milk fat associated with SARA-inducing rations andincreased 3.5% FCM.

492 Could Phytotherapy Heal Microhematuria Caused byChronical Ingestion of Pteridium Aquilinum?

R. Machado de Oliveira, F. Kloster, E. Bueno, C. Molli,A. Possamai, S. Cirio, M. Mangrich-Rocha, R. Ollhoff Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Ciencia Animal, SaoJosé dos Pinhais, Brazil

Objectives: Bovine enzootic hematuria (BEH) is still a commonproblem in Brazil mainly for small farmers in regions not suited foranimal production. BEH has no available treatment only beingrecommended the early slaughter of affected cattle and theeradication of bracken fern. The present study aimed to observe thetherapeutic effect over the symptom microhematuria of BEH usingthe aqueous extract of sawdust of Tabebuia avellanedae, a nativeBrazilian tree. Material and methods: 15 Nelore heifers with microhematuriaevaluated by Combur-Test® stripes with microhematuria (1 or 2 +)were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A (n=10) treated andgroup B (n=5) untreated control. They came from a 173 beef cattle herdof the municipality of Rio Branco do Sul- PR® Brazil where 53,2% ofthem had different degrees of hematuria and the farm is severelyinfested with bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum). The animals werekept in a stockyard of the Ruminant Hospital of PUCPR and treatedSID subcutaneously with 100ml of an aqueous extract of Tabebuiaavellanedae for 30 days. Previous to the experiment the animals werekept at the hospital for one month for adaptation and received all thesame balanced feed based on maize silage. Microhematuria was testedimmediately before and at the end of the experiment. Blood parameters

as urea, creatinine, „GT and transaminases were evaluated as was thelocal injection site. Results and discussion: Group A initiated with a mean ofmicrohematuria of 1,1-0,1 against 1,6-0,6 of group B withoutdifference. After the end of the experiment the values were respectively0,6-0,3 against 2,0-0,9 with a tendency (p = 0,08) for the treatmentgroup. Six heifers of group A had no microhematuria after the 30 daysperiod, but in the control group also two animals showed no signs ofmicrohematuria, whereas two other animals worsened. The hepatic andthe renal function of both groups were not altered. Five heifersdeveloped abscesses at the injection points, due to probably secondarycontamination. As the extract is rich of lapachol an naphtoquinone withantitumoral activity, we suppose that there could be a direct effect overtumoral vascularization in BEH. Conclusion: The phytoterapic extracted from Tabebuia avellanedaehad a tendency of healing animals with microhematuria due toingestion of bracken fern. Further studies must avaliate if BEH at hisinitial stage could be treated.Key words: phytotherappy, Pteridium aquilinum, lapachol; hematuria

493 Clinico-therapeutic Studies on Post-parturientHemoglobinuria in Buffaloes

S. Sridhar Harayana. Agriculture University, India, Veterinary Medicine, Hisar,India

Study was conducted on 15 clinical cases of post parturienthemoglobinuria in buffaloes from and around Hisar district of Haryana(India). For comparison same number of healthy buffaloes from similarhabitat and locations were kept as control. These clinical cases hadrecently calved and were in their third to sixth lactation. They exhibitedclinical signs like red or coffee coloured urine, anorexia, anemia andlaboured breathing. A typical feature of clinical syndrome was strainingduring defecation. Hematological examination in these cases revealedlower levels of hemoglobin, packed cell volume and total erythrocytecount. Hypophosphatemia was a consistent finding in serum biochemicalanalyses of these cases which also showed increased levels of metabolitemalondialdehyde and enzymes super oxide dismutase, catalase andglutathione peroxidase. All but two of these cases recovered fully whentreated with antioxidant ascorbic acid @ 7.5 g dissolved in 5% dextrose500 ml intravenously along with supportive therapy with mineral mixture@ 100g orally and vitamin B complex injection once a day till recovery.On an average 3 days of therapy was needed for complete recovery.Unrecovered animals died probably due to their advanced disease state.Iron containing hematinics were prescribed only after the hemolysisstopped since iron is reported to increase oxidative stress further. It ishereby concluded that oxidative stress on erythrocytes is probably theprecipitating cause of intravascular hemolysis seen in this disease.Key words: hemoglobinuria, oxidative stress, buffaloes

494 The Effect of Cu, Se, Mn and Zn Supplementation on Tissueand Organ Concentration of Copper in Goats

O. Langová, A. Pechová, L. Mi_urová, L. Pavlata, R. Dvorák University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciencies Brno, Clinicof Ruminants, Brno, Czech Republic

The aim of the experiment was to find out whether there are anyinteractions during peroral supplementation with several trace elements intheir inorganic form. We monitored interaction between copper (Cu) andzinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) or selenium (Se) in adult white shorthairedgoats. Twenty-two goats were enrolled in the trial and divided to fourexperimental groups. All groups were supplemented with 3 mg of Cu peranimal and day in the form of CuSO4. Group A (n=6) was supplementedonly with Cu; animals of group B (n=6) were given Cu together with Zn(72 mg per animal and day) in the form of ZnSO4; group C (n=5) wassupplemented with Cu together with Mn (54 mg per animal and day) inthe form of MnSO4; and in group D (n=5) we administered Cu togetherwith Se (0.54 mg per animal and day) in the form of Na2SeO4. The basicfeed ration was identical for all groups and consisted of hay (ad libitum)and wheat flour (300 g) supplemented with respective trace elements.Animals were supplemented with different trace elements for threemonths. Finally, the goats were slaughtered and samples of individualtissues were taken. These were mineralized and analyzed for Cuconcentration by the method of atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Nosignificant Cu concentration differences between groups in any tissues or




organs were identified. However, the results varied a lot within individualgroups. Mean values of Cu concentration in individual groups ranged asfollows (tissues are ordered in a descending line): liver (9.77-12.95 mg/kgof fresh tissue), heart (3.90-4.41 mg/kg), kidney (2.49-2.92 mg/kg), lungs(2.45-2.66 mg/kg), tongue (1.81-1.94 mg/kg), diaphragm (1.39-1.61mg/kg), pancreas (1.25-1.56 mg/kg), spleen (1.24-1.52 mg/kg), thighmusculature (0.85-1.03 mg/kg) and neck musculature (0.77-0.87 mg/kg).On the basis of our results Cu supplementation with concurrentadministration of Zn, Mn and Se in higher doses does not cause differentconcentrations of Cu in individual tissues and organs of the goats.The work was realized with the support of MSM Project No.6215712403.Key words: microelements, liver, kidney, heart, lungs

495 Evaluation of Copper Status in Dairy Cows Living in RegionIrrigated with Potato Utility Refuses

M. Kleczkowski, W. Kluci_ski, T. Jakubowski, K. Dembele Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,Clinical Sciences, Warsaw, Poland

Copper status (CS) can be determined by 5 blood parameters: totalplasma copper (Cu) zinc (Zn), molybdenum (Mo) as well asceruloplasmin (Cp), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Theaim of experiment was to evaluate CS from the region irrigated withpotato utility refuses. The experiment lasted for 6 months, and itcomprised 45 cows of the Black-White breed, at the 3 - 6 years. Cowswere chosen from the 3 districts in the valley of Narew River, eachgroup (1, 2 and 3) with a different irrigation method. Cows, from 1 and2- experimental groups, inhabited areas irrigated with utility refusesfrom potato industry company. Area inhabited with cows from 1 groupwas irrigated with utility refuses by using a flow method. Areainhabited with cows from 2 group was irrigated with utility refuses byusing a sprinkle method. Cows from 3 group were control. Mineralanalysis of utility refuses had been made before experiment started.Blood samples from all cows were collected 3 times: 1- one weekbefore calving, two-three days after calving, and 3- six weeks aftercalving. Cow blood parameters that were determined are: Cu, Zn, Moconcentration, and Cp, SOD activity. Average value of particularparameters for cows from group 1 was: Cu- 8.99 µmol/ dm3, Mo -0.24µmol/ dm3, Zn- 11.46 µmol/ dm3, SOD- 70.11 U/gHb, Cp- 1.37 µmol/dm3, for cows from group 2 was: Cu- 7.23 µmol/ dm3, Mo- 0.21 µmol/dm3, Zn- 9.82 µmol/ dm3 SOD- 54.22 U/gHb, Cp- 0.89 µmol/ dm3, forcows from control group 3 was: Cu- 12.07 µmol/ dm3, Mo- 0.26 µmol/dm3, Zn- 14.55 µmol/ dm3, SOD- 81.36 U/gHb, Cp- 1.66 µmol/ dm3.The analysis of results showed that nutrition of dairy cows produce adecrease of copper status and Cu-dependent antioxidant activity inblood of cows.Key words: cows, copper, antioxidants, utility refuses

496 Diurnal Variation of Acid Base Status in Cows Fed DifferentAnionic Salts Once a Day Only

C. Gelfert1, A. Löptien2, N. Montag2, R. Staufenbiel21 University of Veterianary Medicine, Clinic for ruminants, Vienna,

Austria 2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Clinic for

Ruminants and Pigs, Berlin, Germany

Eleven non-lactating, non-pregnant, Holstein-Friesian-Crossbreedcows received 2,000 meq of either calcium chloride (CaCl2) or calciumsulphate (CaSO4) once a day for a period of one week. At day seven,blood and urine samples were taken every four hours starting at 6o’clock before feeding and ending the same time the next day. Beforefeeding, urine analysis of the CaCl2-cows showed a compensatedacidosis due to an reduced pH and low levels of net acid-base excretion(NABE). Feeding AS changed acid-base status (ABS) noticeably inboth groups over time. All cows developed a strong metabolic acidosis.The strongest acid load was visible 18 hours after the morning feeding.Changes were greater in CaCl2-cows and NABE differed significantly(p=0.037) between both anionic salt groups. Nadir of NABE was -41mmol7l in CaCl2-cows and +4mmol/l in the CaSO4-cows. Thefractional clearance of calcium was higher (p=0.027) in the CaCl2-cows due to a higher calcium excretion via the kidneys. Serum calciumconcentration did not show significant differences between both groups(p>0.05) but changed significantly during the day (p<0.001). Duringthe night, the acidosis became weaker and initial values were reached

the next morning. Contrary to the CaSO4-cows, CaCl2-cows stillshowed signs of a compensated metabolic acidosis in blood and urine.The results of the study showed that CaCl2 had a stronger impact thanCaSO4 and that feeding AS once a day only encloses the risk of aninterrupted effect of the AS during the night.

497 Influence of a Starter with Rape Cake on the State of Healthin Calves

R. Dvorak, L. Pavlata, A. Pechova, J. Filipek, E. Gopfert University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty ofVeterinary Medicine, Clinic of Ruminants, Brno, Czech Republic

After rape oil removal valuable remains are left and may be used forfeeding purposes. Full utilisation of products made of rape is interferedby the presence of antinutritional substances, i.e. glucosinolates (GSL).The total content of glucosinolates has been decreased to 25 µmol/g incultivated varieties, the so-called double zero “00” Canola ones, oreven to 10 -15 µmol/g in the best ones. This study was aimed atexamining a new starter Grant (G) with 10% content of rape cakeprocessed using our proposed technology (GLS, max. 3 µmol/g). Atotal of 45 calves immediately after delivery weighing 44.5 kg wereincluded into the experiment. Three equal groups of 15 calves wereformed. Control group S was fed only by the Standard startercontaining common components. The other Telstar (T) starter iscommonly used in calf rearing in the Czech Republic. Theexperimental starter G contained 10% of treated rape cake. Theexperiment lasted 90 days. State of health was checked using clinicalexamination and selected biochemical parameters in blood and ruminalfluid. The overall consumption of starters in groups S, T and Gamounted to 120.6, 154.8 and 130.5 kg, respectively. Selectedbiochemical parameters ranged within reference values for the wholeexperiment. There were not significant differences in iodine levels ofgroups S and T (208.90±71.40; 152.10±43.00 µg/l) when comparedwith group G (184.80±34.80 µg/l). Likewise, hormone levels of T3 andT4 of groups S and T(4.02±0.98; 3.51±1.00; 77.80±26.30;71.50±30.00) were not different from group G (3.75±1.00;63.00±24.30 nmol/l). Mean weights of thyroid glands of 6 calves fromeach group S,T and G sacrified at the end of experiment were 16.5±2.8,11.7±2.2 and 15.5±4.8 g, respectively. Histology revealed no changesbetween individual groups in the structure, size of follicles and colloidcontent. Feeding the starter containing 10 % of rape cake low in GSLcontent had not any negative effect on growth and development ofcalves. The experimental calves showed no significant changes inparameters of ruminal fermentation, nitrogen, energy, lipid and mineralmetabolism, liver function as well as thyroid gland function. Supported by Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the CzechRepublic (Project MSM6215712403).Key words: calf, nutrition, rape cake

498 The Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation on Oxidative Statusof Dairy Cows

R. Bouwstra, P. Dobbelaar, M. Nielen, T. Werven Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Animal HealthDepartment, Utrecht, The Netherlands

Objective: The effect of oral vitamin E supplementation during the dryperiod on oxidative status biomarkers in serum was evaluated in anobservational field study. Materials and Methods: Ninety-eight cows were selected from 26herds in The Netherlands. Fifty-two received a daily vitamin Esupplement of 1.000 international units; forty-six were notsupplemented. A blood sample was taken between 0 and 28 days beforecalving. Serum was analyzed for ·-tocopherol, cholesterol,triglycerides, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidise(GSHpx), uric acid, albumin, protein sulfhydryl oxidation level,reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM), Fe, the ferric reducing ability(FRAP) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: Alfa-tocopherol was significantly higher in the supplementedgroup, as was the ratio ·-tocopherol: cholesterol. MDA wassignificantly lower in the supplemented group, suggesting lower levelsof lipidperoxidation. Results of the mixed model also showed thatsupplementation lowered MDA serum levels. Conclusion: In conclusion, vitamin E supplementation increases · -tocopherol and lowers MDA serum levels under field conditions.Key words: vitamin E, field study, oxidative status




499 Secondary Hepatogenous Photosensitization in Buffalos dueto the Excessive Accumulation of Hepatic Copper

A. Minervino1, R. Barreto júnior2, F. Rodrigues1, L. Reis1,R. Ferreira1, S. Headley3, E. Ortolani11 College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sao Paulo,

Department of Clinical Sciences, Sao Paulo, Brazil2 Rural Federal University of Semi-Arid, Mossoró, Brazil3 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki,

Finland

Four 1.5 yr-old, male, murrah buffaloes, maintained during six monthswith high Cu intake and without direct solar exposure, were transportedto regular farming conditions. Shortly after sunlight exposure, allbuffalos demonstrated clinical manifestations characteristic ofphotosensitization: anorexia, apathy and severe cutaneous lesions.Blood samples were obtained before solar exposure (T0), during theclinical manifestations (T1), and after recovery (T2) to evaluatehaematological (PCV, Hb, RBC and WBC) and biochemical (totalprotein, albumin, g-glutamil transferase (gGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), urea, and creatinine)parameters. Skin samples obtained by incision biopsy at T0 and T1were processed for routine histopathology. Treatment consisted ofremoval from sunlight exposure and aqueous Zinc oxide solution.Three animals recovered fullly and 1 died. The hepatic Cuconcentrations and gGT and AST activities before solar exposure wereabove normal values. For haematological parameters, only RBCdemonstrated significant difference, being reduced at T1 and returningto normality at T2. A similar pattern was observed with the total proteinand albumin; but an opposite trend occurred with CK activity. Thebuffalo that succumbed had the highest liver of Cu concentration andmore extensive macroscopic skin lesions. At T0 the buffalos hadgeneralized alopecia, but insignificant histological alterations(acantholysis and neovascularization). However, at T1histopathological examination revealed hepatic photosensitizationcharacterized by diffused, moderate parakeratotic hyperkeratosis,multifocal moderate acantholysis, degeneration and necrosis ofsquamous epithelial cells, sweat gland atrophy, sebaceous glandhyperplasia, and dermal edema. Although the buffalos demonstrated aliver insufficiency at T0, the skin lesions indicative of secondaryhepatogenous photosensitization were only triggered after the solarexposure. In this case, a high Cu intake induced hepatic lesions thatmay have caused inefficient metabolization of phylloerythrin resultingin secondary photosensitization after the sunlight exposure. Research supported by FAPESPKey words: buffaloes, hyperkeratosis, photosensitization, hepaticlesions

500 Trace Elements in Cattle: Copper and it`s “Friends”

A. Mueller, B. Freude, M. Scholz, M. Weiss IDEXX, Vet Med Labor GmbH, Ludwigsburg, Germany

Prophylactic procedures to prevent diseases become more and moreimportant in cattle rearing. Adequate supply in trace elements isrequired. Copper (Cu) deficiency is regarded as the second mostcommon mineral deficiency of cattle in the World (Telfer et al, 1996;Black und French, 2004). Two different copper deficiencies are known:a primary copper deficiency induced by a simple deficiency of copperin the diet, and a secondary, resulting from the reduction in copperabsorption or utilization by the antagonistic effects of molybdenum(Mo) and iron (Fe). 340 cattle samples were analysed as serum/plasmapairs regarding the concentration of Cu, Mo and Fe with ICP-AES(Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy) duringJuly 2006 until March 2007. The Cu-plasma analyses showed that only24% of these samples were below the reference value for Cu (80Ïg/dL). Compared to these results, 84% of the corresponding serumsamples showed a Cu deficiency (below 80 µg/dL). Serum clottingreduces Cu by up to 80% compared to the plasma values (inconfirmation to Laven & Livesey, 2006). In contrast to copper theanalyses of Mo in bovine plasma and serum resulted in comparablevalues. 4500 bovine serum and plasma samples were analysed for Mo.80% of Mo-concentrations were below 26 µg/L. Only a few samples (<1%) showed higher values (max. 3300 µg/L). A correlation betweenlow Cu and high Mo values in plasma, or low Cu values with high Feconcentrations could not be found. Additionally, hair analyses of Cu (N= 173) and Mo (N = 99) were performed. 85 % of the hair samples (3-

times analyses of each hair sample) showed Cu values between 5 and20 mg/kg (49%: 6,6-10,4 mg/kg; 4 %: below 6,6 mg/kg), 15 % of thesamples showed higher values up to 100 mg/kg). The Moconcentrations in the hair samples varied between 0 up to 800 µg/kg oreven higher). The comparison between Cu and Mo in hair (N = 99), orCu hair/plasma (N = 107) and Mo hair/plasma (N = 70) showed nocorrelation. The analysed cattle samples with low copper plasmaconcentrations showed mainly a primary copper deficiency. Asecondary copper deficiency caused by a molybdenum intoxicationcould not be found in this set of samples.

501 Effect of chronic glucose infusion on lactation performanceand metabolic profiles in dairy cows

B. Al-Trad1, K. Reisberg1, T. Wittek2, A. Alkaassem2, G. Gäbel1,M. Fürll2, J.R. Aschenbach1

1 Faculty of veterinary medicine, University of Leipzig, Institute ofAnimal Physiology, Leipzig, Germany

2 Faculty of veterinary medicine, University of Leipzig, MedizinischeTierklinik, Leipzig, Germany

Objective: To characterize the metabolic adaptations that occur duringgradual increases of glucose supply via prolonged i.v. glucoseinfusions in dairy cows. Material & methods: Twelve midlactation dairy cows were assignedrandomly to continuous i.v. infusions of either saline (control group,n=6) or 40% glucose solutions (treatment group, n=6) for 28 d. Theinfusion dose started at 1.25% of the daily energy (NEL) requirementand then gradually increased until a maximum dose of 30% NELrequirement was achieved at d 23. Then infusion dose was maintainedat 30% for 5 d. The treatment (feed plus infusion) was hypercaloric butisonitrogenous. Liver and skeletal muscle biopsies were taken on d 0, 8,16, 24, and 32. Blood samples were taken every 2 d at 10:00 a.m. andadditional 24-h blood samples (6-h intervals) were taken before eachbiopsy. Milk and urine samples were also taken on the biopsies days.Results: No changes occurred in daily feed intake and milk production,milk lactose and urea concentrations. Milk protein percentage and yieldtended to increase during the high infusion dose (i.e. 20 & 30% NELrequirement). Decrease in milk fat percentage and yields wereobserved in both groups; however, the decrease was numerically higherin the treatment cows. Body weight and BFT increased in the treatedgroup. Small and occasional increases in blood glucose and insulinconcentrations were observed in the blood samples taken at 10:00 a.m.every 2 d. However, at infusion of 30% NEL requirement, five out ofsix treated cows had blood glucose concentrations >8 mM at 16:00p.m., i.e. 1 h postprandially. Glucose infusion decreased serum NEFA,BHBA and BUN concentrations. Serum liver enzymes, cholesterol,bilirubin, K and Ca concentrations were not affected by infusion. Lessthan 2% changes were observed in serum P, Cl and Na concentrations.Glucoseuria was detected during the maximum infusion dose. Liverglycogen increased gradually to reach plateau on d 16 before it fellback to baseline values on d 32. Skeletal muscle glycogen increasedand liver total lipid tended to increase during the high dosage ofglucose infusion.Conclusions: Dairy cows on an energy-balanced diet do not directexcess glucose to increased lactation performance. Excess glucose istransiently stored as glycogen in the liver and, predominantly,transferred to body fat. At high dosages, glucose is also stored inskeletal muscle as glycogen and excreted via the urine.

502 Biochemical Profile of Cattle with Induced Hypocalcaemiaand Subsequently Treated with an Enriched CalciumSolution

R. Barreto júnior1, A. Minervino2, F. Rodrigues2, E. Meira júnior2,R. Ferreira2, A. Lima3, C. Mori2, E. Ortolani21 Rural Federal University of Semi-Arid, Mossoró, Brazil2 College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sao Paulo,

Department of Clinical Science, Sao Paulo, Brazil 3 Vallée S.A., Sao Paulo, Brazil

Twelve two years-old Holstein heifers were used to study thebiochemical profile during the induction and recovery ofhypocalcaemia. The picture was induced by continuous infusion of aEDTA solution (5% and pH 7.4) into the jugular vein at the speed of220 mL/h until the animals presented definitive clinical signs ofhypocalcaemia such as sternal or lateral recumbency; then the infusion




was immediately stopped and the heifers were treated, during 30 min,with 1 mL/kg BW of a calcium solution (ValléeCálcio®) with 2.44 g ofcalcium /100 mL, from three sources: Gluconate, Lactate and Sacarate,enriched with 5 g Glucose, 0.47 g phosphorus and 0.19 g magnesiumper 100 mL. Venous blood samples were taken before infusion (T0),when the muscle tremors started (T1), at the end of the infusion (T2), atthe end of the treatment (T3) and 24 h later (T4) for serum analysis ofcalcium, ionized calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, plasma glucoselevels and blood activity (30 °C) of g-glutamyl transferase (gGT),aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK). Theinduction generated a similar clinical picture as seen in the naturalcourse of hypocalcemia and the treatment with the calcium solutionpromoted total recovery. The induction generated a significant decreasein calcium, ionized calcium, phosphorus and magnesium levels,principally at T2, but the treatment transiently increased the calciumand ionized calcium at T3 and all of the variables returned to normality24 h later. The plasma glucose levels increased only after the treatment,but returned to normal at T4. There was no change in the gGT activitythroughout the trial, but a significant increase of AST and CK at T4,indicating that some muscle damage occurred during the process.Key words: hypocalcaemia, calcium, phosphorus, treatment

503 Clinical Picture of Induced Hypocalcaemia in HolsteinHeifers Subsequently Treated with an Enriched CalciumSolution

R. Barreto júnior1, A. Minervino2, F. Rodrigues2, E. Meira júnior2,R. Ferreira2, A. Lima3, C. Mori2, E. Ortolani21 Rural Federal University of Semi-Arid, Mossoró, Brazil2 College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sao Paulo,

Department of Clinical Sciences, Sao Paulo, Brazil3 Vallée S.A., Sao Paulo, Brazil

Twelve two years-old Holstein heifers were used to study the clinicalpicture during the induction and recovery of hypocalcaemia. Thepicture was induced by continuous infusion of a EDTA solution (5%and pH 7.4) into the jugular vein at the speed of 220 mL/h until theanimals presented definitive clinical signs of hypocalcaemia, such assternal or lateral recumbency; then the infusion was immediatelystopped and the heifers were treated, during 30 min, with 1 mL/kg BWof a calcium solution (ValléeCálcio®) with 2.44 g Ca (gluconate,lactate, and saharate), 5 g Glucose, 0.47g phosphorus and 0.19 gmagnesium per 100 mL. A clinical examination was performed beforeinfusion (T0), when the muscle tremors started (T1), at the end of theinfusion (T2), at the end of the treatment (T3) and 24 h later (T4). Theinduction generated a similar clinical picture as seen in the naturalcourse of hypocalcemia, but a constant and involuntary kinetic tonguemovement cleaning the nostril and nose and causing a lip sound. Limbstiffness and uneasiness preceded the muscle tremor, and from thismoment on the animals refused food. Then apathy, staggering andmydriasis became evident. These symptoms were followed by a rapidsternal and in most cases lateral recumbency. Even in this last positionthe heifers kept the head turned to the flank. At this moment the skintemperature at the lower limb and anal reflex were decreased; anuriaand somnolence were evident. The heart rate and hypophonesisincreased as higher was the EDTA infusion. Conversely, rumen stasisoccurred in most cases at T1. Most animals had gas bloat. Thetreatment with calcium rapidly reversed the clinical picture, restoredthe heart rate and the rumen tonus and did not cause any adversereaction within 48 hours after treatment.Key words: hypocalvaemia, symptoms, treatment, recovery

504 Evaluation of Faecal Quality as a Diagnostic Tool in SARADiagnosis in Dairy Cattle

J. Tajik1, Mg. Nadalian1, A. Raoofi1, Gr. Mohamadi2, A. Bahonar1 1 University of Tehran, Clinical Sciences, Internal Medicine, Tehran,

Iran2 University of Tehran, Clinical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Objectives: Sub acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is characterized bydaily episodes of low ruminal pH between 5.5 and 5.0. This digestivedisorder is the consequence of feeding high grain diets to dairy cows,which are adapted to digest predominantly forage diets. SARA may bea common and economically important problem in dairy herds. Thereis Limited knowledge of the symptomatology of SARA. Changes infaecal consistency and structure of SARA affected cows have been

described. Considering the fact that SARA has to be understood as atransient condition with no clinical consequences visible at the time ofinsult, it seems that faecal changes rather apply to more severe states ofruminal acidosis than to SARA. This study was designed to evaluatethe validation of faecal quality as a diagnostic tool in SARA diagnosisin dairy cattle.Materials and Methods: Ruminal fluid by means of rumenocentesis(Nordlund& Oetzel 1995) was collected from 117 cows (37 earlylactation and 80 mid lactation cows) from 10 dairies, 2-4 hoursfollowing morning total mixed ration feeding. Additionally scoring offaecal quality (consistency, presence of undigested feed particles andgas bubbles) was done (table1).chi square and fisher exact tests were used in statistical analysis of dataresults.Results: There were no significant differences between individualsexperiencing SARA (ruminal pH< 5.5) and the rest of population(ruminal pH>5.8) in FCS (P=0.908), FBS (P=0.577) and FFP(P=0.288). Also, no significant difference was found between animalswith SARA and a marginal pH (5.6<pH <5.8) and the rest of the studypopulation in comparison of FCS (P=0.985), FBS (P=0.375) and FFP(P=0.456). Any significant differences was found between earlylactation and mid lactation cows in FCS (P=0.97), FBS (P=0.91) andFFP (P=0.11).Conclusions: According to results of this study faecal quality changesare not significant signs for SARA detection in dairy cattle. Key words: SARA, dairiy cattle, faecal quality

505 Occurrence of Primary Pregnancy Toxemia of Ewes due to aMisdiagnosis of Pregnancy via Ultrasonography

N. Alidadi, S. Rafia, S. Moadab, M. Eslampour Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, ClinicalSciences, Tehran, Iran

In a seven day period, four ewes were referred to the VeterinaryResearch and Teaching Hospital of University of Tehran, with the chiefcomplaints being the recumbency and profound depression. They camefrom a flock of 80 sheep with “Shaal” breed which had been naturallybred 4.5 months before. The pregnant ewes had been separated fromnon-pregnant in about 2 months after the breeding by using thetransabdominal ultrasonography. The referred ewes were all from the“non-pregnant diagnosed” group and had been put on a low energy dietof mainly straws for the maintenance. They were all multiparous withlow body condition scores, the mental state was depressed and the eweswere sternally recumbent at the time of examination, which becamelateral terminally. They were oblivious to their surroundings and hadmuscular twitches over the thorax and flank. Champing of the jaws werepresent with one ewe showing a persistent involuntary movements ofthe mandible. The animals were not blind although the MenaceResponse was significantly slow. The rectal temperatures were normalto hypothermic especially in terminal stages. Tachycardia and polypneawere constant findings in all four ewes. Mucous membranes were paleand it was cyanotic in one. While examining the abdominal region,surprisingly, the pregnancy with twin lambs was detected. Blood andurine samples were submitted to laboratory for further investigations.The results showed hypoglycemia in two cases while the other twobeing euglycemic. Blood calcium levels were normal in all of them.Ketonuria was a persistent finding in all of the ewes. The haemogramshowed a stress Leukon in 3 ewes. None of the ewes could survive and

Scores 1 2 3 4 5Parameter

Faecal Very Dry, stiff, Circular, Flat, Liquidconsistency dry, semi moist raised loose, pools of(FCS) lumpy formed pat, symmetrical thinly faeces

pats rings spreadsurroundinga dipped centre

Faecal No few particles Massiveundigested particles particles clearly presencefeed particles visible of(FFP) particlesFaecal gas No few Massivebubbles bubbles bubbles presence(FBS) of bubbles




they all died in a two to three day course. Of the necropsy findings, thesevere fatty change of the liver seemed to be the most important. Thediagnosis of “Primary pregnancy toxemia of Sheep” was made upon thegathered data. With this, the remaining ewes in the “non-pregnantdiagnosed” group were rechecked for the presence of pregnancy andthose found pregnant, were moved to a higher energy diet withnutritional supports and eventually further cases and losses wereprevented. From these, it has been concluded that a small error in earlypregnancy diagnosis via Ultrasonography can lead to significant lossesin sheep flocks. So it is important to know, along with modernizing thetechniques in animal husbandry, it is of great importance to implementthe methods meticulously to prevent such problems. Key words: sheep, pregnancy toxemia, metabolic disorders

506 The Use of Urinary pH Measured in Pooled Urine Samplesfor Monitoring the Use of Anionic Salts in Dairy Cow Herds

C. Gelfert1, S. Römer2, N. Brand2, M. Goebbels2, R. Staufenbiel21 University of Veterianary Medicine, Clinic for ruminants, Vienna,

Austria2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Clinic for

Ruminants and Pigs, Berlin, Germany

The use of pooled urine samples of dairy cows was evaluated in themonitoring of the use of anionic salts (AS). In a first step, it was evaluated,whether the pH of pooled samples reflect sufficiently the calculated meanof the pH measured in the single samples, which form the pooled one.Five large dairy farms in Germany were visited monthl, and 10 cows eachfrom four different stages of lactation were randomly selected. From eachcow, a urine sample was taken by using a urinal catheter and a pooledsample was produced for each stage of lactation by merging equalamounts of each single sample. The urinal pH was measured in the singlesamples and the pooled samples (xp) with a portal pH meter. Aftermeasuring the pH in the single samples, the mean pH of each lactationalgroup (xs) was calculated. The evaluation of xp followed the procedure ofBland and Altmann (1986). The mean of xs was 8.22 and the mean of xpwas 8.29. The urinary pH of Xp was slightly higher than xs. The meandifference was 0.07. These small increases of pH only bore a negligiblerisk of false diagnosis of urinary acid-base status. In the second step, theurinary pH of pooled samples was tested in reflecting the use of AS indairy cow herds. 26 dairy farms were visited on which AS were used.Urine samples from 10 randomly selected healthy transition cows weretaken, and a feed sample from the total mix ration including the anionicsalts was taken to measure the concentrations of the following minerals:sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and sulfate, and DCAD wascalculated. Although all farms used AS, a high variation of urinary pHwas visible, ranging from 5.90 to 8.64. DCAD also showed a highvariation ranging from -393 mEq/kg DM to 303 mEq/kg DM. A DCADbelow zero was no guarantee for a decrease of urinary pH. Therefore, thefarms were grouped according the diagnostic result of urinary pH (cut offpoint 7.8). DCAD tends (p=0.070) to result in lower values when urinarypH decreased (-1.96mEq&kg DM/114mEq/kg DM). Pooling samples ofcows of the same stage of lactation minimizes laboratory work andresulting costs and the measured value corresponds sufficiently to thecalculated mean of the single samples. The use of AS in the prevention ofperiparturient hypocalcaemia has to be monitored by urine analysis.Measuring DCAD may lead to misinterpretation when other faults in feedmanagement exist.

507 Effect of Anionic Salts Supplement in Last Two MonthsPregnant on Metabolic Disorders and Blood Minerals ofHolstein Cow

M. Ganjkhanlou, A. Nikkah, A. Zali, M. Motlagh Animal Sciences Group, animal science, Karaj, Iran

In order to, investigate the effect of feeding cow with different of dietarycation anion balance (DCAB) in far-off and close-up period, onmetabolic disorders and blood composition of Holstein cow inpregnancy and fresh period this experiment was carried out. In this study18 Holstein pregnant cows (220-225 d) were fed individually, a basediet with tree different DCAB (+13(control), 0,-13 mEq [(Na+K)-(Cl+S)]/100gr dry matter) for 60±5 days. For decrease DCAB two anionsalts such as ammonium chloride and ammonium sulphate were used.The result indicated milk fever percentage were 0, 33, 33 for diet -13,0,+13 mEq/100gr DM, respectively. The rate of retained placenta was9.37, 4.62, 4.61 in cows received diet +13,0,-13 mEq/100gr DM

respectively. Blood pH, Na, K, Mg and Ca were unaffected by dietarycation-anion balance. Urinary PH of cows was affected by diets. UrinarypH increased linearly with increasing DCAB. The mean urinary PH was7.99 (for diet +13), 6.81 (for diet 0) and 6.11 (for diet -13). Key words: DCAB, ammonium chloride, ammonium sulphate,metabolic disorders

508 The Effect of Sodium Selenite and Sel-Plex on SeleniumDeficiency Prevention in Beef Cattle

J. Illek1, M. Matejicek2, D. Kumprechtova1, M. Hulik3, T. Berka3

1 Veterinary and Pharmaceutical University Brno, Clinic of RuminantDiseases, Brno, Czech Republic

2 VVS, Vermerovice, Czech Republic3 Alltech, Alltech CZ, Praha, Czech Republic

Objective: The aim was to investigate effects of dietary inclusion ofdifferent selenium (Se) forms and AA cows in the grazing season.Material and methods: 3 Se deficient herds, grazed at Se deficientpastures (bellow 0.1 mg Se/mg DM). Herd A got a complete minerallick with sodium selenite (30 mg Se/kg). Herd B got mineral feed withsodium selenite (30 mg Se/kg). Herd C got mineral feed with organicSe (Sel-Plex) (30 mg Se/kg). Grazing season was April - November.There were groups by 40 cows, along with calves and a bull. They fedad libitum on pasture forage and the mineral lick or mineral feeds only.In the end of the pasture season, 10 cows from each herd werewithdrawn blood samples. Whole blood Se levels andglutathionperoxidase (GPx) activity were measured, metabolic profileparameters analysed in serum. In the end of grazing season, all thecows were pregnancy tested.Results: Se (ug/l) and GPx (ukat/l) in blood

Whole blood Se levels and GPx activity in AA cows at end grazingseason were markedly different between the herds. Herd A showed thelowest Se levels and GPx activity, i.e. pronounced Se deficiency. HerdB showed higher Se level and GPx activity, but still deficient. Herd Cshowed significantly higher Se and GPx levels, within thephysiological ranges. Differences in body condition between the herdswere not observed, but 2 cows died in Herd A. Herds B and C had nodeaths. Death causes were not identified. There were some differencesin numbers of pregnant cows after natural mating. 75%, 80% and 95%conceived in Herds A, B and C, respectively.Conclusion: Organic Se favourably influenced Se levels and GPxactivity in blood and fertility. Mineral licks with sodium selenite seemto be worst source of Se. The mineral licks did not remove Sedeficiency, which was reflected in very low Se levels and GPx activityand worse fertility results. The results support the previous findings thatthe utilization of Se from inorganic sources by cattle is poorer than thatfrom organic sources. The differences between Herds A and B were alsodue to a lower intake of the lick than tha of the mineral feed (meal).The study was carried out within the research project no. 1G46086(NAZV).Key words: beef cows, organic Se, Se deficiency, metabolic profile

509 Effects of Various Anti-Stress Additives in Daily Diets on theMicroelements of the Heat Stress Cows

H. Yuan, De. He, J. Wu, Li. Wen, Li. Yuan, R. Li, M. Zhang Hunan Agricultural University, College of Veterinary Medicine,Changsha, Hunan, China

Twenty healthy and lactating cows with similar weight, corporeity,appearance, and productive capability, were selected from the cattle farmof Hunan Agricultural University, in the hot season on August 1-30, 2007.These cows were classified into 4 groups using a method of single-factorcomparison in order to evaluate the effects of various anti-stress additiveson the microelement in blood, milk, and hair of the heat stress cows. Theresults showed that the concentration of zinc in blood was significantly

Herd A B CSe GPx Se GPx Se GPx

Mean 52.0aA 320.8A 61.4bA 494.6B 84.4B 796.0C

S.D. 4.5 97.8 3.9 44.2 11.8 71.0C.V. 8.7 30.5 6.3 8.9 14.0 8.0

a,b,c P < 0.05; A,B,C P < 0.001




increased in the cows fed with the diets supplemented with vitamin C at adosage of 1100-1500 mg/day compared with the control group (P<0.01),and their concentration of chromium and selenium were obviouslyenhanced when compared with the control group (P<0.05). Theconcentration of iron and chromium in blood was significantly increasedin the cows fed with the diets supplemented with a combination of anti-heat stress additives (provided from the institute of Baite Bio-technology)at a dosage of 500 g/day compared with the control group (P<0.05 andP<0.01, respectively), whereas their concentration of cobalt wasdecreased in comparison with the control group (P<0.01). Theconcentration of iron and selenium in blood was remarkably higher in thecows fed with the diets with a supplement of the Chinese traditionmedicine as an anti-heat stress additive (Four Chinese tradition medicineswere minced, filtered with 40 µm mesh and combined with a designedratio, and then the cows were fed at a dosage of 64 g/day) than that in thecontrol group (P<0.05), and their concentration of chromium in hair was2 times higher than that in the control group (P<0.01). In contrast, theconcentration of zinc and chromium in milk were lower in the cowstreated with Chinese tradition medicines than those in the control group(P<0.01). The concentration of chromium in hair was increased in thecows with the Chinese tradition medicine treatment, but their selenium,manganese, and cobalt were obviously decreased (P<0.05).Key words: cow, heat stress, anti-heat stress additives, microelement

510 The Comparison of Some Blood Minerals of Najdi Cattle inHot and Cold Seasons

A. Rasooli1, Gh. Khadjeh2

1 School of Veterinary Medicine,, Clinical sciences, InternalMedicine, Ahvaz, Iran

2 School of Veterinary Medicine,, Clinical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran

One of the native cattle in Khoozestan province of Iran is Najdi breed,that is characterized by a hump in the withers area. There was noinformation about blood minerals of this breed in Khoozestan province,therefore this study was carried out in order to determination of bloodminerals of Najdi cattle in hot and cold seasons with the attention to ageand sex. In this study, blood minerals of 180 Najdi cattle in differentage and sex groups were determined by conventional laboratorymethods. The result of this study showed significant differencesbetween calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium and chloride levelsin hot and cold seasons. The levels of phosphorus and chloride werehigher in cold season and the levels of calcium, sodium and potassiumwere higher in hot season. The levels of phosphorus, sodium,potassium and chloride have significant differences between differentage groups. There was no significant difference between male andfemale groups.Key words: cattle, Najdi, minerals, blood

511 An Investigation on Subclinical Ketosis in a Dairy Farm ofGuangdong Province

K. Wang, J. Xu Foshan Science and Technology College, Department of life Science,Foshan, Guangdong, China

An investigation on ketone body of a farm in Foshan in Guangdongprovince was performed, we use the adopt-glucose-oxidase and theconcentrations to analysis the blood, milk and urine of 27 holstein cowswhich derived from k group and I group. The results showed that theblood ketone was 1.155±0.511 mmol/L, the milk ketone was2.904±1.311 mmol/L, the urine ketone was 3.127±1.814 mmol/L, andtwo groups cows contain recessive ketone disease (milk ketone andurine ketone greater than 1.722mmol/L). There were 6 cows indicatedsubclinical ketosis, the coefficient correlation of milk ketone and urineketone was 0.59038.Key word: cow, blood ketone, milk ketone, urine ketone

512 Cold Pressed and Extruded Rapeseed Oilcake for Dairy CowsFeeding

J. Dulbinskis, V. Sterna, D. Ikauniece, I. Zitare Research Institute of Biotechnology and Veterinary Medicine Sigra ofthe Latvia University of Agriculture, Sigulda, Latvia

Rapeseed oilcake is one of richer source of protein and partly fat forcows. From publications known that heating increased nutrition value

of rapeseed oilcake. Rapeseed oilcake can be produced with coldpressure method and extrusion by heating in different temperaturesfrom 110 °C to 140 °C.Bacteriological and mycological analyses of therapeseed oilcake samples done by all accepted methods ofmicrobiology, microorganisms differentiated with BBL Crystal GP-ID.The count somatic cells of milk were detected with BentleySomacount 500 Combi (USA). The content of fatty acids in rapeseedoilcake was detected with gas chromatograph Varian 3400.Additionally to base feed (maize silage, hay etc.) 2 months to trialgroups of cows were fed out 2 kg rapeseed oilcake, heated at 110 °C,heated at 140 °C or sunflower seed oilcake. Rate of microbialcontamination of rapeseed oilcake produced with cold pressure methodand heated in different temperatures from 110 °C to 140 °C is dependedfrom used temperature. Temperature of extrusion influenced alsoisolated species. By heating at the 110 °C are killed yeasts, lacticmicroorganisms significantly decreased amount of moulds. Treatmentat the 140 °C caused that microorganisms produced butiric acid werenot detected. More often was isolated Mucor sp., Penicillium sp. andAspergillus sp. moulds. Content of fatty acids after heating in differenttemperatures was not significantly changed (p>0.05). Content of drymatter in heated rapeseed oilcake is by 2.5-3.5% higher than inunheated and degradable protein increased by 4.68-5.3g per kg. In thegroups where in cows diet was included rapeseed oilcake 2kg per day,heated at 110 °C or 140 °C, decreased content of saturated fatty acidsand increased content of unsaturated oleinic and miristoleic acid, andamount of produced milk increased at the same time. In these groupsdecreased fat content of milk (p<0.05). Investigations results showedthat feeding of heating rapeseed oilcake decreased somatic cells countby 10-50% in comparison with initial level. Extruded rapeseed oilcakeheated at 110 °C and 140 °C can be fed out to dairy cows as additionalsource of protein. Key words: cows, rapeseed oilcake, protein, fatty acids, milk

513 Cations and Anions Contained in Diets and its Effect onIndices of Acid-Base Balance of Dairy Cows

J. Twardon1, R. Bodarski2, S. Kinal2, S. Krzywiecki2, J. Pres2,R. Mordak3

1 Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences,Department and Clinic of Obsterics, Ruminant Diseases and AnimalHealth, Wroc_aw, Poland

2 Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences,Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wroclaw,Poland

3 Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences,Department of Internal and Parasitic Diseases with Clinic forHorses, Wroclaw, Poland

Objectives of study: Some scientific data indicated that dietary cation-anion balances (DCAB) values for cows in lactation have an influenceon the yield and milk composition, as well as on some bloodbiochemical indices of acid-base balance. The aim of presented studywas determination of DCAB values of Polish feeds and diets.Materials and Methods: The monitoring studies were conducted onthe seven dairy cows herds from South-East Poland region. In feedsamples the content of Na, K (AAS method), S (nefelometrically) andCl (titrate method) was determined. On the base of obtained data theDCAB values of diets from all farms were calculated. In blood samplestaken from cows some indices of acid-base balance were determined.Results: The highest content of K was stated for grass and legumessilages. In maize silages levels of K were very various. Theconcentrates contained medium levels of K, whereas brewery grainsand beet pulp silage were characterized by low concentration of thiselement. The content of Na was low in grass and legumes silages, aswell as in bran and maize. The concentrates contained slightly higherlevel of Na. The highest Cl content was stated for grass, legumes andmaize silages. In bran and rape seed meal the level of Cl was low. Thehighest content of S was observed for concentrates, brewery grains andfor grass and legumes silages. Maize silages contained the low levels ofS. The DCAB levels of diets oscillated between +66 and +228 meq/kgDM and were lower then optimal - +300 meq/kg DM. This situationcould be explained by high share of maize silage in diet andsimultaneous low share of grass and legumes silages. Obtained BEindices were higher than reference value that stated about alkalosisoccurrence. The high level of BE indices was linked with act.HCO3 values, which were higher than normal concentration. Theincrease of ionized calcium concentration was associated with high BE




and HCO3 level. The concentration of K ions holds in reference values.The concentration of Na ions was various, but still was on properlevels.Conclusions: The DCAB levels of diets oscillated between +66 and+228 meq/kg DM and were lower then optimal. Obtained BE indiceswere higher than reference value, that stated about alkalosisoccurrence.Key words: dietary cation-anion balance, feeds, dairy cows

514 GH Serum Values in Dairy Cows with Clinical PrimaryKetosis

A. Cuomo1, L. Scaletta1, G. Bertoni2, L. Esposito3

1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dipartimento di Scienze ClinicheVeterinarie, Teramo, Italy

2 University Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Zootecnica, Piacenza,Italy

3 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dip. Scienze Zootecniche ed Isp.Alimenti, Napoli, Italy

The objective of the present study was to investigate the GH values indairy cows with spontaneous clinical ketosis. Eight ketotic HolsteinFresian cows (KT group) within the sixty days after parturition, with ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) values higher than 1.2 mmol/L andnonesterified fatty acid higher than 0.6 mmol/L, were evaluated formetabolic profile, plus RIA for insulin and GH. Before sampling theclinical diagnosis of ketosis was confirmed by portable dry analyzerMedisense-Optium Abbott. A control group of six normal no lactatingcows (CT group) was evaluated in the same way. Any subject was treatedby drugs before sampling and the samples were collected at 09.00 a.m. inboth groups. Statistical analysis was performed respectively in thegroups and between the groups, by software GraphPad Prism 5. In thegroup KT mean value was respectively for GH 2.473ab ng/ml (SD1.038), insulinemia, 4.570bcA µU/ml (SD 2.101), glycaemia 46.00bC

mg/dl and (SD 7.746), BHBA 2.213ab mmol/L (SD1.606) and NEFA1.796ac mmol/L (SD 0.5299). In the CT group mean value wasrespectively for GH 2.162a ng/ml (SD 0.9184) insulinemia 8.445bB

µU/ml (SD 1.082) glycaemia 71.50ABC mg/dl (SD 8.264) BHBA0.283333a mmol/L (SD 0.075277) and NEFA 0.1904a µmol/L (SD0.1692). All the results are in accordance with the literature except theGH in KT group. Usually in cow 60 days post-parturition the GH valueranges around 5-10 ng/ml, significantly different respect our data inketotic cows for the same period of lactation. Statistical analysis showsbetween the groups significance for insulinemia, glycaemia, BHBA andNEFA values as expected, at difference of GH that is not significant. Nocorrelation has been observed between NEFA and GH values in the KTgroup, at difference of positive correlation described in literature forketosis-free lactating cow. We hypothesize, that low GH concentration indairy cow affected by primary ketosis, could have a protective effectsagainst more pronounced fats mobilization during NEB. Key words: cow, ketosis, GH

515 Romifidine as Treatment for Primitive Ketosis in Dairy Cow

A. Cuomo1, L. Scaletta1, G. Bertoni2, L. Esposito3

1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Scienze Cliniche Veterinarie,Teramo, Italy

2 University Cattolica Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Zootecnica, Piacenza,Italy

3 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dip. Scienze Zootecniche ed Isp.Alimenti, Napoli, Italy

Romifidine (RMF) is an a-2 agonist utilized like analgesic-sedative drugin dog and horse, and rarely in cow. The a-2 agonist drugs induce atransient anabolic effect with hyperglycaemia, biphasic hypo-hyperinsulinemia and a rise of GH concentration. The objective of thiswork was to evaluate the effectiveness of Romifidine in the treatment ofketosis and its metabolic effect in dairy cows. Eight dairy cows affectedby clinical ketosis (KT group), with ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) valueshigher than 1,2 mmol/L and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) higher than0.6 mmol/L, were included in the group. All the animal displayed thesyndrome in the sixty days after parturition and do not received treatmentbefore our study. Six not lactating cows with normal BHBA values wereenrolled in the control group (CT). Both groups were evaluated, formetabolic profile plus GH and insulin, to study the RMF effects in anegative energy balance mode (NEB) like group KT and in a positiveenergy balance (PEB) like group CT. In KT group RMF was injected at

09.00 a.m. for 5 days at dose of 7.5 Ïµg/Kg/i.m, after collection of basalblood sample and evaluation of levels of BHBA, by portable dry analyzerMedisense-Optum Abbott. Adjunctive sample was collected at day 1 after2.5 hours from RMF injection. In CT group the samples were collectedbefore injection and at 1; 1.5; 2; 2.5;3; 24 hours after it to evaluate acomplete daily curve. Each sample was processed for metabolic profileplus insulin and GH and data were statistically processed. The sedativeRMF at 7.5 µg/Kg/i.m. induces a significant increase in GH andglycaemia values and a biphasic hypo-hyperinsulinemia in both groups,without any sedation effect. GH mean value shows significant differencesbetween KT and CT groups, before and after 2.5 hour RMF injectionrespectively of 2.473ab (SD 1,038) and 9.225A ng/ml (SD 8.774) in KTand 2.162a (SD 0.9184) and 3.022a ng/ml (SD 1.206). In the group KTBHBA mean value falls down at 1 mmol/L (SD 0.7838) and food intakenormalizes within 5 days. RMF is effective as unique treatment forprimitive ketosis in dairy cow. We hypothesize, to explain this action, arole of described hyperglycaemia and transient hypo-hyperinsulinemia,plus the normalization of GH values, without the predictable increasevalues of NEFA, wich is typical for GH action in NEB cow. For thisreason we could hypothesize some additionally, direct actions of RMF notcorrelated with GH activity.Key words: cow, ketosis, G˙, romifidine

516 Mycotoxin Screening in Healthy Cows and Cows withAbomasal Displacement

A. Alkaassem1, M. Fürll1, S. Dänicke2

1 University of Leipzig, Medizinische Tierklinik, Leipzig, Germany2 Federal Agricultural Research Center (FAL), Animal Nutrition,

Braunschweig, Germany

Objectives: The aim of this study was a) to examine samples of fodder,blood, milk and bile for concentration of deoxynivalenol (DON),Zearalenone (ZON) and their metabolites de-epoxy-DON, a-zearalenol(ZOL), ß-ZOL, zearalanon (ZAN), a-Zearalanol (ZAL) as well as ß-ZAL, b) to study possible relations between the toxin arrears anddiseases.Material and methods: We checked 61 ill cows with abomasaldisplacement and accompanying diseases as well as 13 healthy HFcows.Results: 77.8% Patients without mycotoxins were cured. From thosewith mycotoxins 18 (72%) were cured without clinical reactions; 7 hadto be euthanized due to severe accompanying diseases and severehaematological or clinical chemical deviations in the blood beingtypical for abomasal displacement. We do not observed specificclinical mycotoxins effects on health. ZON/ZOL associated changes inthe ovaries and uterus could not be macroscopically determined. Thetransabdominale collection of bile by aspiration can be easilyperformed in sick cows. In healthy cows mycotoxins were not found. Inthe slightly contaminated fodder samples the mycotoxin concentrationwere 0.161 g DON /kg (0.086-0.191) and 6.35 µg/ ZON kg (4.88-7.85).None milk samples contained mycotoxins. DON (0,002 µg/ml) wasfound in one of 61 serum samples, de-epoxy-DON in four samples(8%). In bile de-epoxy-DON (37.6 µg/ml) was found only once. 39% ofthe examined bile samples were contaminated with ZON and/or itsmetabolites (ZON 9.85 ng/g [8.10-16.33], b-ZOL: 59.9 ng/g [5-78] andß-ZOL: 37.6 ng/g. In all cases concentrations were within thephysiological range. The metabolic parameters protein, albumin, urea,kreatinin and TEAC did not show differences in cases with or withoutmycotoxins. Mg, Ca, Na, K, Cl, pH, PCO2, bilirubin, glucose, FFA andcholesterol concentrations were not in physiological ranges in all casesindepended on mycotoxins. The haemogram of all patients with orwithout mycotoxin did not show deviations. AP, GGT and CKactivities of all patients were within the normal ranges. However meanAST and GLDH activities of all mycotoxin positive patients wereslightly increased compared to mycotoxin negative cows. Conclusions: We concluded that no specific clinical, haematology orclinical chemical changes for mycotoxin influences (DON, ZON) couldbe determined.

517 Strong Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride) DetermineHydrogen Ion and Bicarbonate Concentrations in Urine ofRuminants

H. Staempfli1, P. Constable2

1 Ontario Veterinary College, Department of Clinical Studies,Guelph, Canada




2 Purdue University, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences,West Lafayette, United States

Urine contains 5 strong ions (high Na, K, Cl, and low Ca, Mg) and 4buffers over the physiologic range for urine pH (2 volatile buffers[bicarbonate and ammonia] and 2 non-volatile buffers [phosphate,creatinine]. Translating physicochemical approach to urine it ishypothesized that the primary determinants of the urinary pH are thestrong electrolyte concentrations represented by the strong iondifference (SID) [(Na +K)- (Cl)]urine. The theoretical polynomialrelationship between SID vs pH and SID vs HCO3 in simulated urinecontaining strong ions and normal pCO2 predicts very high urinebicarbonate concentrations (>200 mEq/L). Normal urine samples werecollected from 5 mature Holstein dry cows and analysed on a multi-analyzer system (Hitachi 911) for concentrations of Na, K, Cl, andTCO2. PH (pHmeas) was measured using an Accumet-benchtop pH-meter. The pH (pHcalc) was then calculated using SID in the Stewart 8model equation on an excel spreadsheet (MS Office 2003) with pCO2kept at 40 mmHg and individual SID from each urine sample (table).The high level of bicarbonate concentrations observed in urineconfirms that bicarbonate is a dependent variable adjusting toconcentration of SID based on dissociation equilibria and law ofelectroneutrality. Electrolyte intake and renal excretion are very closelycorrelated and alkaline pH in urine of ruminants is strongly associatedwith surplus strong ion intake, especially with diets high in potassiumconcentrations. There was good correlation between pHcalc and pHmeasin this small sample size. Electroneutrality was off, indicatingmeasurement problems with ion specific electrodes. In conclusion pHand bicarbonate concentration (TCO2) of urine are primarily dependenton SID.

Strong electrolytes, bicarbonate (TCO2) and pH in Urine of 5 dry cows

Key words: acid-base, urine, strong-ions, electrolytes, pH

518 Fat Mobilization Syndrome and Blood Coagulation in Cows

K. Waldau-Ringel1, M. Müller2, M. Fuerll11 University of Leipzig, Department of Internal Medicine, Leipzig,

Germany2 University of Leipzig, Department of Clinical Diagnostics, Leipzig,

Germany

Objectives: During the fat mobilization pro- and anti-inflammatorycytokines are released from the adipose tissue. These could cause acirculatory insufficiency and the lipolysis is increased by insulininhibition. Dystocia with placental retention and endometritis followingbacterial determined endotoxin release are caused by enhanced cytokinedevelopment. Cytokines could activate the coagulation cascade, so thathemostasis disorders and a disseminated intravascular coagulopathy arefound. The aim of the study was to evaluate, if dairy cattle with fatmobilization syndrome or endometritis have coagulation disorders independence of disease at admittance into the clinic. Material and methods: Blood was collected from 60 cows, whichwere admitted into the clinic because of abomasal displacement andaccompanied diseases. From these 60 cows, a basal therapy was givento group 1 (n=25) and additional a single dose dexamethasone wasgiven to group 2 (n=25). 10 cows died in spite of intensive care.Comparative 36 healthy cows were tested. The numbers ofthrombocytes and leucocytes were analyzed in EDTA blood and anumber of haemostatic parameters like prothrombin time (PT),fibrinogen (FIB), reptilase time (RT), Antithrombin (ATIII), fibrindegradation products (D-Dimers), factor XIII (F XIII) and the activatedprotein C (APC) in citrated blood. Additional as acute phase proteinshaptoglobin and Procalcitonin (PCT) were tested.Results: 50 cows could discharge from clinic after 4 days. 6 cows diedwithin 24 hours and 4 cows died after 4 days. Fibrinogen was increased

at first day and decreased while treatment. Antithrombin and factorXIII decreased in cows which died faster than in cows which werecured. The fibrin degradation products were slightly increased andwere sunk while treatment. Cows, which died, had highly increased d-Dimers. Procalcitonin and haptoglobin were increased in ill cows anddecreased during treatment. Conclusions: Dairy cattle which suffer from fat mobilizationsyndrome or endometritis have a poor prognosis concerning the acutephase proteins fibrinogen, haptoglobin and procalcitonin and thehaemostatic parameters especially antithrombin, factor XIII and d-Dimers. A single dose of dexamethasone has no adverse effects to thecoagulation, but shows a stabilizing effect. An additionaladministration of heparin is indicated.Key words: cattle, blood coagulation, fat mobilisation syndrome,coagulation disturbances

519 Oxalates Plants: Reviewed of Eco Toxicological Aspectsamong Farm Animals

M. Abdallah1, T. Abdelkrim2, K. Gerard3

1 Centre Universitaire d’El-Tarf, Veterinary Department, El-Tarf,Algeria

2 Université d’Annaba, Biology Sciences, Annaba, Algeria3 Ecole Vétérinaire, Veterinary Department, Lyon, France

The poisonings by oxalic acid and organic salts (the oxalates) areespecially known of the veterinary practitioners as poisoning due to theethylene glycol (antifreeze), which oxidized in oxalic acid in the liver,is at the origin, in particular, of interstitial nephritis and deadlyepithelial among the domestic animals (carnivores). However, someplant poisonings to the oxalates are not diagnosed correctly, probablyby ignorance. They are due to plants rich in oxalates and whichdiagnosis is not so difficult. The aim of our work is to bring a maximumof relative information to the eco toxicological aspect of these toxicsubstances composing these plants. The example of the oxalis is given,very rich oxalates plant that infests the natural grasslands as thosesown. The pathological aspects that especially interest the farmingactivity veterinarian more that the canine practice are discussed as wellas the pathogenic aspect of the poisonings in different animal species,especially in bovine species (cattle). Key words: oxalates plants, oxalic acid, eco toxicology, pathologies,cattle

520 Saponins and Pithomyces chartarum Spores Evaluation inPastures from Southwestern of Goiás State, Brazil

K. Brum2, MC. Fioravanti1, M. Haraguchi3, LA. Silva1,F. Riet-Correa4, JR. Borges5, J. Souza1, E. Campos1, M. Pires1,A. Pinto1

1 Universidade Federal de Goiás, Escola de Veterinária, Goiânia,Brazil

2 Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande,Brazil

3 Intituto Biológico, Sao Paulo, Brazil4 Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Centro de Saude e

Tecnologia Rural, PATOS, Brazil5 Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Veterinária, Brasília, Brazil

Brachiaria species are important forages in tropical areas. In Brazil, thereare around 51 millions of hectares that are feed sources to livestock.Outbreaks of hepatogenous photosensitization have been reported inruminants grazing B. decumbens and B. brizantha. The disease wasattributed to the presence of Pithomyces chartarum spores, but recentstudies suggest that the steroidal saponins contained in the forage couldinitiate photosensitization outbreaks. General objectives of this studywere verify if the quantity of protodioscin, a steroidal saponin, and thespores quantity variation during the year; and to inquire if the saponinwas present in other forages that was grazing by the animals. With twomonth of interval, six harvests was taken in ten farms located in Jataí,Mineiros and Perolândia cities of the southwestern region of Goiás State,Brazil. The spore count was made second a standard technique. Thebutanol-soluble residue containing saponin was submitted to thin layerchromatography and spectrophotometric analysis using Ehrlich reagentin 515nm. P. chartarum spores found in the pastures varied of 0 to40.000 spores/g The number of of grass and the biggest amount wasobserved in the July month (dry season in Brazil). Protodioscin wasisolated only in B. decumbens and B. brizantha leaves; the biggest

Na K Cl SID pHcalc pHmeas TCO2 E-(mEq/L) (mEq/L) (mEq/L) (mEq/L) (mEq/L) Neutrality

(mEq/L)

10 388 143 255 8.4 8.5 229 -26108 276 110 274 8.4 8.4 227 -47129 246 204 171 8.2 8.4 91 -8037 306 133 210 8.3 8.3 148 -6295 320 178 237 8.4 8.5 218 -19




amount of saponins was observed in March, in the rain season, and thelowest amount in July. These results shoed the great variation in levels ofsaponins during the experiment, suggesting a relation between thepluviometric precipitation and/or cycle of life in these species ofBrachiaria evaluated. Acknowledgements to Coordenaçao deAperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) and toConselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq) by financial support.Key words: brachiaria, spectrophotometry, sporidesmin,photosensitization, protodioscin

521 The Effect of Dry Period versus Continuous Lactation on ß-carotene, Vitamin A and Vitamin E in the MammarySecretion

F. Schweigert1, A. Wesser2, I. Buchholz2, J. Raila1

1 University of Potsdam, Department of Physiology andPathophysiology, Potsdam-Rehbruke, Germany

2 University of Leipzig, Department of Veterinary Physiology, Leipzig,Germany

ß-carotene and fat-soluble vitamins A and E are accumulated during thedry period in the mammary gland and secreted with colostrums togetherwith the accumulated immunoglobulins. Both are of great importance forthe health of the new borne calf. In this study changes in fat-solublevitamins A, E and ß-carotene (rpHPLC) and IgG1 (immunodiffusion) inthe secretion of the mammary gland during late gestation in dry dairycows (n=12) and those which were milked until parturition (n=5) werecompared over a total period of 11 weeks starting 8 before parturition.Results showed a biphasic increase in all components during the dryperiod. The first approx. 30 d ap and the second closely toward parturition.In animals with continuous lactation an increase towards parturition wasobserved as well but maximum levels were reached earlier approx. 20 ap.Absolute levels were comparable in both groups. In both groups lowlevels characteristic for mature milk were reached within a few days afterparturition (P<0.05). The increase of fat-soluble vitamins in secretion wasobserved despite a continuous decrease in milk fat indicating no lipid-associated transfer of these components. Similarities between IgG1 andfat-soluble vitamins point to mechanism responsible for the accumulationof these components in milk. Finally, the accumulation in colostrums isnot effected by the dry period but related to endocrine changes associatedwith parturition.Key words: fat-soluble vitamins, ß-carotene, dry-period, milk, cattle

522 Bovine Hepatic Function in Brachiaria Pastures fromSouthwestern of Goiás State, Brazil

K. Brum2, MC. Fioravanti1, M. Haraguchi3, LA. Silva1,F. Riet-Correa4, JR. Borges5, J. Souza1, E. Campos1, M. Pires1,A. Pinto1

1 Universidade Federal de Goiás, Escola de Veterinária, Goiânia,Brazil

2 Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande,Brazil

3 Intituto Biológico, Sao Paulo, Brazil4 Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Centro de Saude e

Tecnologia Rural, PATOS, Brazil5 Universidade de Brasília, Faculdade de Veterinária, Brasília, Brazil

Brachiaria species being constituted by B. brizantha (60 millions ha), B.decumbens (25 millions ha) and others (10 millions ha) which are used tolivestock. Outbreaks of hepatogenous photosensitization have beenreported in ruminants grazing B. decumbens and B. brizantha. The diseasewas attributed to the presence of Pithomyces chartarum spores, but recentstudies suggest that the steroidal saponins contained in the forage couldinitiate photosensitization outbreaks. General objectives of this studywere: to determine the presence of hepatic alterations, by seric dosage ofhepatic enzymes activities and bilirubin values and to verify if there was arelation between the quantities of saponin protodioscin, the number of P.chartarum spores and hepatic alterations. With two months of interval, sixharvests was taken in ten farms located in Jataí, Mineiros and Perolândiacities, in the southwestern region of Goiás State. In each harvest theanimals was weight and the blood samples was taken to determination theserum activity of gama glutamyltransferasis, aspartate aminotransferaseand bilirrubin values. In each farm twenty bovines had been sampled. Forthe accomplishment of seric dosages standardized commercial reagentswere used. The spore count was made second a standard technique and

saponins were determinate to thin layer chromatography. The average ofall biochemistry values had remained inside of the normality parameter.About hepatic alterations tests, only aspartate aminotransferase showstatistical difference (p<0.05) on third harvest, in first month of rainperiod, when the greatest number of animals had increased this enzymeactivity. The biochemical results also show few significant alterationsindicating absence of consistent hepatic or biliary lesion, during theexperimental period. Only the presence of small amounts of saponinprotodioscin and a few spores it was not sufficient to developphotosensitization outbreaks in the studied bovines. Acknowledgementsto Coordenaçio de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior(CAPES) and to Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico eTecnológico (CNPq) by financial support.Key words: hepatic function, Brachiaria brizantha, Brachiariadecumbens, sporidesmin, protodioscin

523 A Novel One-Step Method for Fat-Soluble Vitamins and ß-carotene in Blood at Cow-Side

F. Schweigert1, R. Mothes2

1 University of Potsdam, Department of Physiology andPathophysiology, Potsdam-Rehbruke, Germany

2 BioAnalyt GmbH, Potsdam, Germany

Background: Fat-soluble vitamins (FSV) and ß-carotene (BC) areimportant blood components associated with cell differentiation andgrowth. Monitoring their blood levels is important to optimiseperformance of highly productive animals through optimised feeding.Currently the determination of FSV and BC from blood is a timeconsuming and cost-intensive multi-step procedure, which needsspecific equipment for extraction and centrifugation. Finally, FSV andBC are determined by spectrophotometric or HPLC methods inqualified analytical laboratories. Aim: Aim of this study was to compare the extraction efficacy of arecently introduced new and innovative one-step extraction procedurewith standard methods. Methods: serum or total blood samples from cows (n=172) BC wereanalysed by HPLC and compared with the novel assay system for FSVand BC consisting the iExblood all-in-one extraction unit and by a handheld photometer, the iCheck. These two components enables to extractof FSV and BC from blood without prior separation of plasma in asingle step at cow-side. In a subset serum was extracted either with thedisposable assay system iEx blood or the standard measurementsregularly used for HPLC analysis and finally analysed by HPLC. Results: BC values range from 0.32 mg/L to 15.30 mg/L. Nodifferences were observed between both methods for individual herdsor for all animals either measured in serum or in blood (HPLC serum vsiCheck® serum: 3.46±2.43 vs. 3.69±2.46 and HPLC serum vs. iCheck®

blood: 3.46±2.07 vs. 3.33±2.04. Furthermore, results correlated(Pearson correlation coefficient) well with HPLC analysis (r2=0.98 and0.99, serum and blood respectively, both P < 0.001). With regard tovitamin E (VE) and vitamin A (VA) levels assayed were in the range of1.38 to 8.30 mg/L and 0.21 to 0.34 mg/L respectively. No significantdifferences were observed between both methods for VE and VAmeasured in serum (standard extraction vs iEx extraction: 4.02±1.81vs. 4.29±1.96 and 0.27±0.04 vs. 0.25±0.04 (r2=0.97 and 0.82, VE andVA respectively, both P < 0.001).Conclusion: Results show that with the novel test system blood levelsof FSV and BC can easily be assessed within a few minutes at cow-sideachieving a comparable quality as with highly sophisticated timeconsuming and expensive laboratory method such as HPLC. Key words: fat-soluble vitamins, ß-carotene, cow-side assay,diagnostic

524 Effect of 2-Methyl-2-Phenoxyl Sodium Propionate on LipidProfile in Postparturient Dairy Cows

J. Bouda1, MA. Blanco2, J. Ávila2, C. Hernández2, EG. Salgado1

1 Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Patologia, MEXICO,D.F., Mexico

2 Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Produccion Animal:Rumiantes, MEXICO, D.F., Mexico

Fatty liver and ketosis are frequent metabolic disorders in dairy cowsduring the first weeks postpartum. The compound 2-methyl-2-phenoxyl sodium propionate (MPSP) is an activator of theperoxisome proliferator activated receptor-a involved in energy




metabolism. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect ofthe intramuscular administration of MPSP on blood serum lipidvariables and selected reproductive parameters in dairy cows. Thirtysix Holstein cows within the 2nd and 4th lactation with body conditionscore between 3.5 and 4.5, 10 to 6 days before expected calving datewere randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 (n=18) receivedthree application of 50 mL (5 g of MPSP) at 20 day-intervals. Thefirst application was 10 to 6 days prepartum, the second and the thirdadministration were 10 d and 30 d postpartum, respectively. Group 2(n=18) receiving no treatment. Blood samples were collected in allcows from tail vein on day 10 to 6 before expected parturition dateand on day 10, 30 and 40 after calving. Serum free fatty acids (FFA),b-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), cholesterol (CHOL) and triacylglycerols(TG) were measured. The results were analyzed with repeatedmeasures analysis of variance. A Chi-square test evaluated theproportion of cows with increased concentrations of FFA (>0.4mmol/L) and BHB (>1.4 mmol/L). There were no significantdifference in FFA and BHB between Group 1 and Group 2 (P>0.05).Before parturition, BHB concentrations were lower than those aftercalving (P<0.05). The concentrations of CHOL and TG were higherin Group 1 on days 10 and 40 (P<0.05). There was no difference inthe proportion of cows with increased FFA between both groups afterparturition (P>0.05). The proportion of cows with increasedconcentrations of FFA (>0.4 mmol/L) before calving was higher inGroup 1 (P<0.05). The number of cases of subclinical ketosis (BHB>1.4 mmol/L) was lower in Group 1 at days 30 and 40 postpartum(P<0.05). The open days were lower in Group 1 (109.9) incomparison with Group 2 (118.5) (P<0.05). The preventiveadministration of MPSP reduced the frequency of subclinical ketosisand increased the serum concentration of CHOL and TG during thefirst 40 days postpartum.Key words: PPAR-alpha, dairy cow, lipid profile

525 Ammonia Detoxication Efficacy in Cattle Adapted or not toDietary Urea and afterwards Undergone to DifferentPrivation Periods

N. Santos1, E. Ortolani2, C. Mori2, A. Antonelli2, M. Sucupira2,S. Kitamura3

1 Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Veterinary Medicine,Recife, Brazil

2 Universidade de Sao Paulo, Department of Clinical Science, SaoPaulo, Brazil

3 Universidade Anhembi Morumbi, Department of VeterinaryMedicine, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Objectives of study: This study was carried out to investigate therecommendation stated by HUBER (1978) that there is a need to re-adapted cattle that were fed previously with dietary urea, butsubsequently were deprived of this nutrient for more than 3 d.Materials and methods: Twenty four steers fed a low crude proteinration, deprived of urea, were randomly distributed into 5 equal groups,and were fed as follows: O (control; basal diet); the remaining groups(A,B, C and D) were fed the basal diet + urea (1% D.M.) for 21 d;afterwards the groups B,C and D were fed only the basal diet for 4, 15and 30 d, respectively. Thereafter, all steers were challenged with anintravenous infusion of ammonium chloride (1.5 M) up to the outcomeof convulsion when the infusion was stopped. Throughout the infusionand for 3 h later clinical examination was carried out; blood samplesand whole urine were also collected. Results: The steers adapted to urea (A,B,C and D) needed a greateramount of ammonium chloride to cause convulsion (p < 0.001) andtook longer to exhibited this symptom than the control group. Ascompared to the control, all the adapted groups, but the C, had a lesssevere clinical picture and recovered sooner, and did not require anymedical treatment after the end of the experiment. This resistance wasdue a faster fall in the blood ammonia level, caused by a greater activityof the urea cycle, excretion of a higher excretion of ammonium andurinary volume. It was demonstrated that the higher the production andexcretion urea by the kidneys, the greater the diuresis, that by its turnincreased the excretion of ammonium into the urine improving theefficiency of detoxification, principally at the most critic moment of thepoisoning (from the convulsion up to 1st h later).Conclusions: It was concluded that cattle fed previously with urea andafterwards restricted of urea for up to 30 d do not require a new re-adaptation period, contradicting Huber’s axiom.Key words: urea, cattle, ammonia, intoxication

526 Do Cows with Subclinical Milk Fever have Low SkinTemperature? Can We Use Skin Temperature for Diagnosisof Hypocalcaemia?

L. Carstensen1, U. Doerfeld2, J. Deitmer3, L. Nielsen1

1 Boehringer Ingelheim Denmark, Division Vetmedica, Copenhagen,Denmark

2 Veterinary Practice, Reinsberg, Germany3 Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein,

Germany

Objectives: Subclinical hypocalcaemia, which may precede clinicalmilk fever or may stay subclinical, is characterised by low level ofblood calcium without the clinical signs of milk fever. Subclinical milkfever is difficult to diagnose, but also affects cows due to reducing therumen function and dry matter intake (1) and increasing the risk ofsecondary post parturient disorders (2). The aim of the present studywas to investigate the association between blood ionized calcium level(iCa) and ear skin temperature (EST). A second aim was to make amodel to predict iCa from EST, and to evaluate whether measurementof EST can be used as an indicator of subclinical hypocalcaemia andearly diagnosis of clinical milk fever.Materials and methods: The study was conducted in a largecommercial dairy herd in Germany. EST was measured in triplicate attwo well defined areas at the cow ear with an infrared lightthermometer in 57 Friesian Holstein cows immediately before and aftercalving. Blood was drawn from Vena jugularis in serum vacutainersand the iCa was measured immediately with a VetStat analyser(IDEXX). Triple measurements of room air temperature (RAT) werealso recorded. Data were analysed in SAS using ANOVA with EST asresponse variable, and iCa, RAT, parity as independent variables.Hereafter simulations were made in order to find the optimal inversemodel with iCa as response variable and EST, RAT and parity asindependent variables.Results and conclusion: The results showed that the EST afterparturition was dependent on iCa, parity and RAT. The effect of paritywas that 1st and 2nd parity cows were sometimes hypocalcaemic, butdid not show signs of reduced peripheral blood perfusion as measuredby EST. In 3rd to 5th parity cows, the EST was positively correlatedwith iCa. There was a strong effect also of RAT, which hence should bemaintained in the model.It was possible to make several models to predict iCa from EST. Thesensitivity and specificity of these models for use as a diagnosticindicator of hypocalcaemia however were too low. With more data itmay be possible to develop a valid predictive model.Key words: dairy cows, hypocalcaemia, skin temperature, diagnosticmodels

527 Effect of Feed Supplementation on Health and Milk Yield ofDairy Cows Grazing Endophyte Infested (N. lolii) Yatsyn-1Ryegrass Pastures

F. Lanuza1, H. Uribe1, A. Torres1, E. Cisternas1, O. Araya2,F. Wittwer2, S. Moyano3, C. Uribe1, L. Angulo1, M. Villagra1

1 Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias INIA-Remehue,Producción Animal, Osorno, Chile

2 Universidad Austral de Chile, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias,Valdivia, Chile

3 Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias INIA-La Platina,Agricultura Sustentable, Santiago, Chile

The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effect of adding feedsupplements on dairy cows grazing N. lolli infested ryegrass andwhite clover permanent pastures. The feed supplements were addedto minimize the presentation of the ryegrass stagger syndrome. Theresearch used 16.2 ha of Yatsyn-1 ryegrass and white clover pastureof the dairy unit at the Remehue Regional Research Centre. The landwas subdivided in 3 sections, each one of 6 to 9 paddock of the samearea. Thirty-nine cows calving in spring and after lactation peak, fromDecember 2001 to March 2002, were used. The pasture was grazedwhen it had a grass availability of 1,800-2,200 k DM/ha. Switchingdecision to a new paddock was taken when residual grass was 6 cmheight measured with falling plate meter. Cows were assigned to arepeated measurements random block design into three treatments:I Grazing + 0.15 kg mineral salt supplementation; II Grazing + 30 kgsilage and .15 kg mineral salt supplementation; III Grazing + 5.6 kgconcentrated feed, 0.15 mineral salt and 0.2 kg sodium bicarbonate.




Water was offered ad-libitum. Feed supplements were offered in themilking parlor (treatments I and III) and 2-3 hours before milking(treatment II). Stocking rate for the 86 days trial were 2.07, 2.08 and2.57 cows/ha for treatments I, II and III, respectively. In foragesamples, in average, concentration (mg/Kg DM) of Lolitrem B(0.9±0.1) was higher than Ergovaline (0.5±0.1). Daily milk yield,adjusted to 4% fat content, was 12.9b, 14.5ab and 15a L. for treatmentsI, II and III, respectively (P<0.05). Although some forage sampleshad a concentration of 1.53 mg/kg DM, observation of the cows, ongrazing paddocks and milking parlor, did not provide evidences ofryegrass stagger clinical signs. Serum activity of Aspartateaminotransferase (AST) and Gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT) werebetween reference ranges. Creatine kinase (CK) was above referencerange but was at permitted range for samples taken after physicalexercise. It is concluded that feed supplementation has a dilutioneffect on toxic intake; however, in weather conditions with lowrainfall and high humidity, leaving residual grass of 6 cm, did notallow us to observe clinical signs of ryegrass stagger syndrome in nonsupplemented grazing cows.99C5AT FDI-CORFO/INIA ProjectKey words: supplementation, grazing dairy cow, endophyte

528 Assessment of Three Sources Used for MagnesiumSupplementation in Grazing Dairy Cows

G. Wittwer, D. Scandolo, H. Chihuailaf, L. Böhmwald, A. Contreras Universidad Austral de Chile, Facultad Ciencias Veterinarias,Valdivia, Chile

Objective: Evaluate the effect of three magnesium (Mg) sourcessupplementation on plasma and urinary excretion of (Mg) in dairycows at pasture consuming grass with high potassium content.Material and Methods: Experimental animals were 27 Frisianlactating cows, grazing on pastures, mostly Lollium sp, ( Mg= 0,17%;K= 2,68% DMB). Cows were distributed in 4 groups and supplementwith 30 g/d p.o as MgSO4, MgO or MgHPO4 administered in one doseafter the morning milking during 5 consecutive days. The 4th groupremained as control. Blood and urine samples were obtained on days 0,1, 5 and 12 (7 days after supplementation). Plasma and urine Mgconcentrations were determined by AAS. The clearance of urinary Mgwas also calculated (CUM = Mg-U/creatinina-U). Differences betweenperiods were determined by repeated measures ANOVA test with asignificance of 95%Results: Mg supplementation with the three sources had not significanteffect (p>0.05) in the plasma Mg values. CUM values increases(p<0.05) when MgHPO4 was used, also in the MgO group, but in a lessand shorter extension (Table 1). The morning ruminal environment ofcows grazing high K content pastures could allow a better utilization ofMg when phosphate is used compared to oxide; and sulphate seems notto be a efficient way to supplement Mg. CUM determination has abetter sensitivity to evaluate Mg balance than plasma Mg concentrationTable 1. Plasma magnesium concentration and clearance of urinarymagnesium, CUM (mean ± SD), before, during (days 1 and 5) and after(day 12) a supplementation with 30 g of magnesium as sulphate, oxideor phosphate.

Conclusions: The MgHPO4 present a better bioavailability than MgOand MgSO4 seems ineffective when used as supplement for Mg in cowsat pasture with high K content.Key words: cows, magnesium

529 Evaluation of Some Commonly Used Nutrition Software forPredicting Dry Matter Intake of Holstein Cows during theMid-Lactation

M. Taghinejad roudbaneh1, A. Nikkhah2, M. Kazemi21 Islamic Azad University Tabriz, Animal Science Department, Tabriz,

Iran2 University of Tehran, Animal Science Department, Karaj, Iran

Diets are typically formulated based on nutrient density. Becausenutrient intake is a function of dry matter intake (DMI), predicting DMIprecisely and accurately is important to prepare balanced rations whenon farm estimates of feed intake are not available (Hayirli et al., 2003).Lack of accuracy in prediction of feed intake can affect on animalperformance, animal health or environmental impacts of dairy industry(Fox et al., 2004). There are different software based on scientificmodels to formulating dairy cows’ rations that predicted DMI can bedifferent among them. The objective of this investigation was toevaluate the 2001 Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle, CNCPSCornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System, CPM-Dairy CornellPennsylvania Miner and Spartan dairy ration balancer soft wares inpredicting DMI of lactating dairy cows in mid-lactation. 32 lactatingHolstein cows averaging BW=632±29kg, DIM=55±12d andMY=32±0.85kg were randomly assigned in a CRB design that eachtreatment has 4 cows in second and 4 cows in third lactation period.Four rations using the same feedstuff and similar inputs (BW=650kg,DIM=60d, MY=32kg, Milk fat=3.5% and Milk protein=3.2%) wereformulated by each software for each group of cows. The formulatedrations fed individually for 90 days three times a day to allow 10% feedrefusal. Daily DMI and other trait were recorded. Data were analyzedusing GLM procedure of SAS (1999). Differences for MY and milkcomposition were not significant between four groups. The variablesused to evaluate DMI prediction were MSPE, MPE and RPE asexplained follow: MSPE = mean square prediction error (kg2/d), MPE= mean prediction error (kg/d); RPE =relative prediction error (%). Byincreasing the RPE rate, accuracy of the DMI prediction decrease. TheRPE for NRC2001, Spartan, CNCPS and CPM-Dairy wererespectively 7.16%, 8.10%, 10.80% and 12.63%. The results of thepresent study showed that NRC 2001 predicts DMI more accuratelythan Spartan, CNCPS and CPM-Dairy. DMI prediction in NRC 2001and Spartan is base of empirical equations. So they have moreconformity to actual DMI monitored in farm. Key words: nutrition software, dry matter intake

530 Atypical Interstitial Pneumonia Associated with Sweet Potato(Ipomea batatas) Poisoning in Adult Beef Cows in the UK

I. Mawhinney1, S. Trickey2, N. Woodger1, J. Payne1

1 Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Bury St. Edmonds, UnitedKingdom

2 Veterinary Practice, Norwich, United Kingdom

Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) poisoning in adult cattle causes acuterespiratory distress and atypical interstitial pneumonia, and is frequentlyassociated with a high case mortality rate. It has been described in variouscountries worldwide, such as USA, Japan, Australia and Brazil, and iscaused by ipomeanol toxins associated with certain fungal infections ofdamaged tubers. In the case reported here, six beef cows died, and oneheifer and a bull recovered, after acute respiratory distress, 8-12 days afterintroduction of sweet potato tubers at 7kg per head per day. None of theseven unweaned suckler calves showed signs of toxicity, nor did 3 otherin-calf heifers with access to the tubers. Animals did not seem to respondto treatments and deaths occured within hours of first clinical signs. Twoof the cows were necropised at one of the VLA’s regional laborotories.Pathological changes, confirmed by histopathology, were characteristic ofan atypical interstitial pneumonia. Samples of the tubers that were fedwere tested for fungal contamination. Fusarium solani mould was foundin the tubers, which were purchased as damaged stock from a wholesalevegetable market. Sweet potatoes have a high energy concentration andare palatable but they have been associated with a variety of health effects,one of which is acute respiratory distress characterised by development ofan atypical interstitial pneumonia clinically and pathologicallyindistinguishable from fog fever. The toxic compounds in sweet potatotoxicity have been extensively investigated by American and Japaneseworkers. Damaged tubers produce 3-substitued furans compounds such asipomeamarone, itself a hepatotoxin, which are then metabolised byvarious fungi into other related toxins such as ipomeanine, 1-ipomeanol,

Plasma magnesium (mmol/L)

Days 0 1 5 12MgSO4 (n=7) 0,61±0,06 0,62±0,06 0,65±0,07 0,66±0,07MgO (n=7) 0,54±0,17 0,54±0,17 0,60±0,16 0,55±0,09MgHPO4 (n=7) 0,60±0,08 0,60±0,12 0,70±0,17 0,62±0,09Control (n=6) 0,47±0,11 0,42±0,06 0,46±0,10 0,49±0,12

CUM (mmol/L)

MgSO4 (n=7) 1,44±0,35a 1,71±0,28a 1,82±0,50a 1,32±0,44a

MgO (n=7) 1,41±0,38ab 1,66±0,34ab 1,85±0,53b 1,24±0,46a

MgHPO4 (n=7) 1,43±0,45a 2,07±0,27b 2,35±0,47b 1,37±0,44a

Control (n=6) 0,99±0,11a 0,81±0,19a 1,06±0,18a 0,84±0,33a

a, b, c = P<0.05 between periods; a, b, c = P<0.05 between periods




4-ipomeanol and 1,4 ipomeanol. These compounds when absorbed intothe animal are further converted by microsomal activity in pneumocytesto a toxic lung oedema factor, which is responsible for the pulmonarypathology. The increased use of sweet potatoes for human consumption inthe UK was noted as early as 1975 by Coxon and others. They are nowgrown in Europe and increasingly fed as a by-products to cattle. This isbelieved to be the first such case published in the UK. Key words: sweet-potato, toxicity, respiratory, interstitial, pneumonia

531 Key Hepatic Gluconeogenesis Enzymes Activity in Responseto Long-term Glucose Infusion in Dairy Cows

B. Al-Trad1, K. Reisberg1, T. Wittek2, G. Gäbel1, M. Fürll2,J.R. Aschenbach1

1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Institute ofAnimal Physiology, Leipzig, Germany

2 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, MedizinischeTierklinik, Leipzig, Germany

Background and Aims: Periparturient ketosis in dairy cows ischaracterized by an imbalance of glucose and lipid metabolism.Insufficient gluconeogenesis is thought to be primarily caused by a lackof glucogenic precursors due to negative energy balance. However, it isnot clear whether insufficient catalytic capacity of gluconeogenicenzymes might contribute to insufficient glucose productionpostpartum. The purpose of the present study was to investigate (1)whether a positive energy balance due to chronic glucose infusion hasa depressive effect on selected gluconeogenesis enzymes activity indairy cows and (2) how quick such depressive effect might be reversedafter stopping surplus glucose supply.Material and Methods: Twelve midlactation dairy cows weremaintained over a 28 d experimental period on continuous intravenousinfusion of either saline (control group, six cows) or 40% glucosesolutions (treatment group, six cows). The infusion dose was calculatedas a percentage of daily energy (NEL) requirements, starting at 1.25%and increasing by 1.25%/d until a maximum dose of 30% was reached.Dose was then maintained at 30% for 5 d. No infusions were madebetween d 29-32. Blood samples were taken every 2 d and liverbiopsies were taken on d 0, 8, 16, 24, and 32.Results: Blood glucose and insulin concentrations showed only slight andoccasional increases while NEFA and BUN concentrations decreased byglucose infusion. Liver glycogen increased progressively during glucoseinfusion until reaching plateau between d 16 and 24. Liver glycogen fellback to baseline values on d 32 after cessation of glucose infusion. Duringthe infusion period, no significant changes were observed in the activitiesof phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and glucose 6-phosphatase.Fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase decreased and pyruvate carboxylase tendedto decrease in the treatment group during the high dose of glucose infusion(i.e. infusion dose of 20% & 30% NEL requirements) but quickly returnedto baseline after stopping the infusion.Conclusion: The activity of key hepatic gluconeogenesis enzymes inlactating dairy cows is not significantly affected by long-term increasesin glucose supply. Excessive glucose improves body tissues energystatus without impairing the role of liver as the main source of glucoseproduction in dairy cows. Thus, dysregulation of gluconeogenicenzymes activity by a positive energy balance pre-partum is likely nota major cause of postpartum metabolic disturbances.

532 Milk Drop Syndrome in Dairy Ewes: Clinical and DiagnosticApproach

N. Giadinis1, G. Arsenos1, G. Fthenakis2, P. Tsakos3, C. Dovas1

1 School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki,Greece, Greece

2 University of Thessaly, Thessaloniki, Greece3 Institute of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Centre of Veterinary

Institutes of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

“Milk drop syndrome” in dairy sheep is a problem with considerablefinancial implications. However, it has not been thoroughly investigatedand research data are scarce. In this paper, we present the results of astudy, carried out from 2003 to 2007, into the factors involved in milkdrop syndrome reported in 18 flocks of dairy sheep in Northern Greece.The appropriate clinical and diagnostic approach is also discussed. Ineach flock, five adult ewes were selected randomly among those withreported milk drop. Samples of blood, milk and faecal samples werecollected from these animals throughout a milking period. Their feeding

regime was also evaluated. Evaluation of milk yield was based on dataof previous milking records. In 10/18 flocks, the subclinical mastitis,caused by coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. or Streptococcus spp,was the reason for the reduced milk yield. In other flocks the reasonswere contagious agalactia confirmed by isolation of Mycoplasmaagalactiae in milk cultures (1 flock), inappropriate and unbalancednutrition with a ration containing suboptimal protein (1 flock), chronicruminal acidosis (1 flock) or Maedi-Visna confirmed by PCR, serum testfor antibodies and histological findings in mammary glands (2 flocks). Acombination of the above factors was observed in 3/18 flocks, while inone flock these factors were coupled with intense gastrointestinalparasitism. The results confirm that subcilincal mastitis is the majorreason for reduced milk yield. The role of different pathogens and theneed for proper management of animals in individual flocks imply thatthe clinical and diagnostic approach should involve a farm investigationbefore any measures are taken.Key words: dairy ewes, milk, mastitis

533 The Relation of ante Partum Backfat Thickness withMetabolic Disorders and Fertility Problems in Dairy Cows - aLong Term Study

H. Pothmann-Reichl1, F. Zimmer2, I. Sommerfeld-Stur3, C. Iben4

1 University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Teaching and ResearchFarm, Vienna, Austria

2 Veterinary Clinic, Private Veterinary Practice, Oberkirchen,Germany

3 University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Clinical Department ofAnimal Breeding and Reproduction, Vienna, Austria

4 University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Department of VeterinaryPublic Health and Food Sciences, Vienna, Austria

ObjectivesIn this retrospective study the influence of post partum changeof back fat thickness (BFT) in cattle on fertility, metabolic problems,mastitis and milk yield was investigated. It is hypothesised that a higherdecrease of back fat thickness post partum (p.p) has a negative impact onfertility and fat metabolism. Animals, materials and methodsFive dairyfarms in Germany (292 cows) and two farms in Austria (111 cows)participated in this trial and 1045 lactation periods were analysed. Theback fat thickness was measured with an ultrasound (3.5 MHz) betweenthe tuber coxae and the tuber ischiadicum at the following days: 8 weeksante partum (a.p.), 42 days a.p., day of parturition, 42 days and 100 daysp.p. The programme “Inter-Herd”(Interagri, Earley Gate, UK) was used torecord the data. Statistic evaluation was done by SPSS for Windows14.0.1 using odds ratio (OR >1 increased risk, OR <1 decreased risk) asrisk parameter and a significance level of p<0.05 and a confidence intervalof 95%. ResultsA significant increased risk for cycling problems (OR0.56), for mastitis (OR 0.48) and for abomasal displacement (OR 0.07)was found in cows with a BFT loss over 35 % within 42 days p.p. Therelative chance for cows with BFT loss less than 35% within 42 days p.p.to develop displaced abomasum is very low compared to those who lostmore than 35 % BFT. The same limit of BFT loss was found for cowswithin 100 days p.p. concerning mastitis (OR 0.49) and ketosis (OR 0.37).For cows within 42 days p.p. and a BFT loss over 40% the results showeda significant higher risk for developing orthopaedic problems (OR 0.29).ConclusionIn general body condition scoring is an important instrumentto monitor feeding management. It is a practical tool for veterinarians aswell as for farmers. Measuring BFT is an even more objective method toevaluate body condition and a key for professional herd healthmanagement. Feeding strategies that aim for a reduced loss of BFT(<35%) after parturition have a positive impact on herd health. Key words: cattle, backfat, ultrasound, metabolic, fertility

534 Trace Element Deficiency in the Azorean Cattle: an AnimalProduction, Health and Economical Constraint

C. Pinto1, J. Viana1, P. Aranha2

1 Serviço de Desenvolvimento Agrário de Sao Miguel, Veterinária,Ponta Delgada, Portugal

2 Sociedade Açoreana de Sabnes, Veterinária, Ponta Delgada,Portugal

Dairy cattle production represents the principal industry of the Azoresarchipelago, responsible for 27% (4,5x105 tonnes) of all Portuguesemilk production. Cattle are reared all-year-round on intensive grazingsystems; soils are of volcanic origin with some natural trace element(TE) deficiencies. In order to identify TE deficiencies in cattle (Zn, Cu,




Se, I and Co) more than 500 blood samples were analyzed from 70herds, several of them with problems of infertility, abortions,premature calving, weak calves, enzootic haematuria and high somaticcell counts. The majority (91%) of the analysis were performed inHolstein-Friesian (HF) cattle, of which 284 were milking cows (MC),129 heifers (H), 13 calves (C), 43 bullfight cattle (BF) and 12 beefcattle (B). The results of the TE survey indicate that 92% of the animalshad both low levels of plasmatic iodine and thyroxin (T4) 84% of theherds had at least one animal with Co deficiency (75% BF cattle, 54%B cattle, 51% H and 37% MC). About 31% of the MC had low levelsof Se (glutathione peroxidase, GSH-Px1) and serum Cu, as well as 38%of serum Zn. The most severe deficiencies were identified in the heifersgroup. To complement these data, 7 clinical trials were developedusing HF reared on pasture grazing systems. In each trial there weretwo randomly constituted groups: a control group and a group havegiven extra feed supplements. The individual weights of animals weremeasured every 14 days. Blood samples were taken at the beginningand end of the trials for TE levels and blood cell counts. Differentsupplementation protocols and products were implemented in eachtrial. The clinical trial results indicate that TE supplemented yearlingshad significantly higher productive output and hematologicalparameters than the controls. The least laborious, most consistent andreliable supplementation system studied, was obtained with the intra-ruminal slow releasing bolus (SRB) from Alltrace, Agrimin (UK).However, similar results were obtained when Se and I were added tothe drinking water. A TE survey should be included in the sanitary andmanagement plans for each herd in order to enhance animalperformance and health, as well as farm profitability. Key words: cattle, trace elements, mineral deficiency, azores

535 Influence of Postpartum Propylene Glycol Supplementationon Metabolism, Animal Health, Reproductive Performanceand Production in Dairy Cows

M. Iwersen, U. Falkenberg, R. Voigtsberger, W. Padberg,A. Mertin, W. Heuwieser Freie Universität Berlin, Tierklinik für Fortpflanzung, Berlin,Germany

The effect of postpartum (pp) supplementation of 250g propyleneglycol (Propy) per cow and day via a total mixed ration (TMR) onmetabolism, animal health, reproductive performance and milkproduction was studied on a commercial dairy farm in Germany. A total of 258 multiparous Holstein-Friesian cows were enrolled in arandomized and controlled field study. On the basis of expected calvingdate and previous milk production animals were blocked and allocatedto one of the two treatment groups. The TMR fed in group 1 (Control,n=131) was supplemented with Propy before offering it to group 2(Study, n=127). The TMR was mixed and offered twice daily for aperiod of 40 days pp. Blood samples were collected within 12 hours atthe day of parturition, on day four, ten, twenty and forty. Samples werecentrifuged and serum was stored at 20 °C until analysis. BodyCondition Score (BCS) and Back Fat Measurement (BFT) values wererecorded on the same days. Serum samples were shipped to onecommercial laboratory for the determination of Nonesterified fattyacids (NEFA), Betahydroxybutyrate (BHBA), Triglycerides, Ketonebodies, Bilirubin, Glucose and activities of Aspartate-aminotransferase(AST), Glutamate-dehydrogenase (GLDH), Alanine-aminotansferase(ALT) and g-glutamyl-transferase (GGT). Metabolic parameters wereanalysed by a 6-step UNIANOVA with repeated measurements usingSPSS®-Software. ALT, GGT, GLDH, Insulin, Bilirubin and Glucosewere comparable between the two groups. Concentrations of AST,Triglycerides, BHBA and Ketone bodies were significantly (p<0.05)influenced by treatment. Concentration of AST, Triglycerides, BHBAand Ketone bodies indicated a better metabolic situation, especially onday four, ten and twenty pp for cows treated with propylene glycol. Referring to the test day results from the local dairy herd improvementassociation the total yield of fat corrected milk (FCM, 4 %) did notdiffer between the two treatment groups in a period of 305 days pp.Also milk composition was not affected by treatment. Neitherreproductive performance nor changes of BCS or BFT during the studyperiod were significantly influenced by treatment. Although indicatorsof metabolic status were improved by pp use of propylene glycol,economic benefits are questionable for dairy farms with goodmanagement programs. As most important economic factors milkproduction and milk composition were not influenced supplementingPropy in a TMR fed pp.

536 The Effect of Time of Selenium Application before theSlaughter on their Concentration in Blood and SelectedTissues in Goats

L. Sevcikova, A. Pechova, L. Misurova, L. Pavlata, R. Dvorak University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Clinic ofRuminants, Brno, Czech Republic

The aim of the experiment was to evaluate selenium distribution inruminant organism at different time intervals after the parenteralapplication. Twenty white shorthaired goats aged 6 months andweighing 29.3 kg on average were enrolled in the trial and divided tofour groups. Animals of each group were given Selevit inj. ad us. vet.BIOTIKA (natrii selenis 2.2 mg/ml, tocoferoli acetas 25 mg/ml)intramuscularly in neck musculature in the dose of 0.2 ml/ kg liveweight. Selevit was applied in the first group (D7, n=5) 7 days, in thesecond group (D3, n=5) 3 days and in the third group (D1, n=5) 1 daybefore the slaughter. On the day of the slaughter, blood samples weretaken by puncturing vena jugularis. Immediately after the slaughter,tissue samples of liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, testicles, lungs andheart, diaphragm, tongue, thigh and neck musculature were taken. Thesamples were mineralized in microwave oven MILESTONE MLS1200 and the concentration of selenium was determined by AAShydride technique using SOLAAR M 6 (UNICAM) appliance.Blood concentration of selenium was measured in µg/l; tissueconcentration was measured in µg/kg of fresh tissue. The results showthat selenium concentration in blood and all the examined organs andtissues increased following Selevit application. As compared withcontrol group (C), all experimental groups (D1, D3, D7) showedsignificantly higher selenium concentrations: blood (133.0, 150.4,177.6 vs. 93.7), plasma (84.6, 86.6, 113.1 vs. 46.3), liver (616.95,485.91, 539.5 vs. 170), spleen (171.3, 170.9, 194.4 vs. 133. 5),pancreas (203.0, 222.8, 250.3, vs. 158.6), myocardium (128.6, 135.4,153.5 vs. 88.4), diaphragm musculature (66.5, 66.2, 78.4 vs. 51.4),tongue musculature (128.6, 135.4, 153.5 vs. 88.4), neck musculature(63.4, 68.5, 149.6 vs. 43.0). As far as selenium distribution dynamics isconcerned, the highest concentrations were found in blood, plasma,spleen, pancreas, lungs, and heart, diaphragm and thigh musculature1 day after the application. Later on, the values kept decreasing. On thecontrary, selenium concentration in liver and kidneys were highest 7days after the application. This indicates that selenium depositedslower in these organs and its concentration was increasing until the 7th

day after the application. The work was realized with the support of MSM Project No.6215712403

537 Correlations between Milk Fat Content and Fatty AcidComposition in Cows Receiving Different Lipid Supplementsat Four Dietary Fiber Levels

H. Fébel1, J. Várhegyi1, J. Schmidt2, I. Várhegyi11 Research Institute for Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Herceghalom,

Hungary2 University of West Hungary, Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary

The fat content and milk fatty acid (FA) composition are influenced by anumber of interacting dietary factors including the amount of fiber, theproportion of concentrate to forage, and fat supplement. The rate ofruminal degradation of fiber in feeds for lactating cows has receivedlimited attention. The aim of this trial was to investigate the effect offeeding total mixed ratios (TMR) of different fiber level and to studydifferent ruminal degradation rate of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) onmilk fat content and FA composition. Milk fat content and FAcomposition were evaluated in 4 dairy units (A, B, C and D) usinglactating Holstein cows fed TMR with 40.6% (A); 37.9% (B); 36.3% (C);32.1% (D) NDF content. Diets were markedly different in rates of ruminaldegradation of NDF. The TMR in farm A had 6.5%/h; B=8.0%/h;C=6.3%/h and lowest value was in farm D, 4.9%/h. The diets differed inFA composition. The lowest proportion of saturated FA (19.5%) and thehighest polyunsaturated FA content (51.1%) were in diet D. TMR in farmC contained higher proportion of oleic acid (30.4%) and linolenic acid(6.3%) and the lowest amount of linoleic acid (37.9%). Milk fat contentdiffered among the farms, the values were 3.77%, 3.47%; 3.61%; 3.9%,respectively. The highest value (3.9%) was obtained in farm D where thecows received the lowest NDF content TMR. Cows in farm D hadsignificantly lower percentage of trans11-18:1 and conjugated linoleicacid (cis-9 trans-11 C18:2; CLA) in milk fat. In contrast, cows in farm B




had greater trans11-18:1 percentage in milk fat (2.39%) this responseresulted in lower milk fat (3.47%). In the farm C the percentage of CLA,the ratio of trans11-18:1 to CLA and the ratio (6:3) of FA were verybeneficial according to human health demands. Milk fat content wasnegatively correlated to trans11-18:1 percentage (r=-0.93) and to CLA inthe milk fat (r=-0.85). Our data suggest that rate of ruminal degradation ofNDF influences the milk fat content. Results showed that there was anegative correlation between milk fat content and degradation rate ofNDF (r=-0.91). It can be assumed, that even suboptimal fiber levels inTMR containing slower degradable fiber may be sufficient to maintainproper rumen fermentation and level of milk fat synthesis. This findingsuggests that in the TMR of cows not only the quantity of fiber fractions(NDF, ADF) has to be determined, but even their degradation rate shouldbe taken into consideration.

538 The Effect of Antioxidant and Omega-3 fatty acidSupplement on Metabolic Status and ReproductivePerformance in Postpartum Dairy Cows

F. Tóth1, Gy. Gábor1, O. Balogh1, G. Koppány2, H. Fébel11 Research Institute for Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Herceghalom,

Hungary2 Vitafort Ltd., Dabas, Hungary

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of differentsupplements on metabolic status, the onset of cyclic ovarian and therate of re-conception function in the postpartum (pp.) period. The studywas carried out on 66 pp. Holstein cows. The cows were fed the sametotal mixed ration in dry period and 5-7 pp. days were divided into thecontrol (C) (n=16) and the experimental (E) group (n=50). The feed ofE was supplemented with extra beta carotene, vitamin E, inactivatedyeast, selenium and microelement chelates until 50 pp. d.; from 50 pp.days onwards the supplement was only 200 g grinded linseed (W3 fattyacid supplement). The average milk yield of E cows was 3 kg/dayhigher than C cows from 8th to 120th lactation day. The plasma level ofBHB was higher in the E group. While both groups showed elevatedNEFA level on day 30, only C group had increased NEFAconcentration on day 50. Plasma concentration of urea was lower in theE group on day 90 and 120 pp. Serum level of carotene in the E groupwas higher during the whole experiment. P4 concentrations betweenDays 18 and 39 after AI were greater for cows fed linseedsupplementation than the control cows. According to the P4 profilemore than 80 % of the E group had cyclic ovarian activity versus only62.5% of the C group. Although, the conception at first AI (41.2 vs.57.1 %) and the overall proportion pregnant (47.1 vs. 71.4 %) waslower in the E group. The hypothesis that feeding linseed wouldincrease conception rate of dairy cows was not supported by the presentexperiment. The higher P4 level of E cows means the positive effect ofomega 3 fatty acids and may also have contributed to decrease embryomortality. The applied supplements effected elevated milk production,but this higher production led to a negative energy balance (NEB)which is confirmed by elevated levels of NEFA and BHB. Thisnegative effect of NEB is presumably connected to lower fertilityperformance. This work was supported by the project of OMFB-0121Key words: conception rate, omega-3 fatty acid, antioxidant,metabolic status

539 Use of hypertonic and isotonic saline solution and furosemidefor the treatment of the ammonia poisoning in cattle

S. Kitamura1,2,3, A. Antonelli1, R. Barreto Júnior1, C. Mori1,M. Sucupira1, B. Caputi1, E. Ortolani11 Faculdade de Medicina Veterinaria da Universidade de Sao Paulo,

Clinica Medica, Sao Paulo, Brazil2 Universidade Anhembi Morumbi, Clinica Medica, Sao Paulo, Brazil3 Universidade Paulista - UNIP, Instituto de Ciencias da Saude, Sao

Paulo, Brazil

To test the efficiency of some treatments for ammonia poisoning incattle 25 steers, never fed non-protein nitrogen before, were used.Ammonium chloride solution was infused intravenously (iv) onlyonce in each steer until the onset of convulsive episode, and then theinfusion was immediately stopped. Thereafter, the animals wererandomly distributed in one of the five different groups, as follows:1) control (infusion 300 mL isotonic saline solution - ISS); 2)infusion (iv) of ISS 30 mL/kg BW throughout the following 4 h and

administration by stomach tube of 4 L water. (W); 3) same as group2, plus a single dose 2 mg furosemide/kg BW (iv) (F); 4) injection of5 mL/kg BW hypertonic saline solution (HSS) (7.2 %) (iv)throughout the first 30 min, followed by 20 mL/ kg BW of ISS and 4L W.; 5) Same as group 4 and a single dose of F. For the next 4 hafter the convulsion several clinical variables and the bloodconcentration of ammonia, glucose, lactate, urea, creatinine, sodiumand potassium, hemogasometric profile, urine global volume andurinary excretion of ammonium, urea and creatinine were followed.The clinical picture seen just before the treatment was classical andcaused a characteristic systemic metabolic acidosis, compensated byreduction in the pCO2, hyperlactemia and hyperglycemia. At theconvulsion the ammonia blood levels were high and similar amongthe groups, but at the 120th min the animals treated with HSS hadlower values than the control. The HSS infusion caused, during thefirst 30 min. a marked reduction in the packet cell volume and theheart rate. On the other hand, furosemide provoked an increase in theheart rate and neither prevented the onset of lung edema, nor anincrease in the total excretion of urine. Cattle treated with HSS stoodup and had the return of the rumen movements earlier than othergroups. The therapy with HSS still increased the urinary volume andthe total urinary excretion of urea and ammonium during the critical1st h of treatment, while the use of ISS had intermediate results. Theefficiency of the treatment with HSS or ISS as seen by somevariables of clinical improvement was better than the control group.The higher the urinary urea excretion was, the greater the ammoniaelimination became. Although with lower efficiency as seen in thetreatment with HSS, the ISS caused an improvement in the clinicalpicture and at the end of the experiment generated an adequateammonia detoxification.Key words: ammonia intoxication (treatment), hypertonic,furosemide, cattle

540 Environmental Low Phosphorus Induced the ErythrocyticMembrane Damage: a Pathogenesis of EndemicHaemoglobinuria in Dairy Cattle

JL. Li, Q. Si, FQ. Shi, SW. Xu Northeast Agricultural University, College of Veterinary Medicine,Harbin, China

Objectives: Dairy cattle could display haemoglobinuria whenphosphorus was deficient in food, especially in environmental lowphosphorus in some regions. Endemic haemoglobinuria in dairy cattleusually had been detected in some regions of Heilongjiang province inchina. However, the reason of the endemic haemoglobinuria remiansunclear. The aim of this study is to illustrate the pathogenesis ofendemic haemoglobinuria.Materials and Methods: In this study, we tested the content ofphosphorus in soil-grass and serum of 15 cows with obvious clinicalsymptom in Daqing and Anda regions of Heilongjiang province inApril-July and October, respectively. In addition, we also detectedLipid composition, fluidity, viscosity and activity of ATPase oferythrocytic membrane of the 15 cows as well as osmotic fragility ofthe erythrocytes and blood routine.Results: Our results indicated that the content of soil and grassphosphorus was significantly lower (P<0.01) than national phosphorusstandard and NRC feed standard in April, and serum phosphorus of the15 cows decreased obviously. All 15 cows was found to have anaemiain April detected by the method of blood routine. Although the contentof phospholipid of erythrocytic membrane decreased, the content ofcholesterol increased significantly in April, indicating that the serumphosphorus was positively relative to phospholipid while wasnegatively relative to cholesterol. The fluidity and ATPase activity ofdecreased while the osmotic fragility of erythrocytic membraneincreased in April. In July and October, levels of phosphorus of grassand soil were lower than standard level while the content of phosphorusin serum of 15 cows had no difference with normal level. These itemsof erythrocytic membrane were near to those of the negative control. Itsuggested that phosphorus deficiency took place maily in April insteadof in July or October.Conclusions: This study indicated that environmental low phosphoruswas the major factor caused endemic hypophosphatemia. Erythrocyticmembrane damage induced by environmental low phosphorus may bethe crucial mechanism of endemic hypophosphatemia.Key words: dairy cattle, phosphorus, erythrocytic membrane, endemichaemoglobinuria




541 Variability of Blood Profile and Milk Composition in Relationto Stage of Lactation and Season of the Year in Dairy Cows

SM. Abdel raheem, C. Iben University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Nutrition, Vienna, Austria

Objectives of study: The study was designed to determine the seasonaland lactational influences on blood metabolites, milk composition,BCS, and back fat thickness (BFT) in dairy cows.Materials and methods: The study was conducted from April 2006until February 2007 using (n=35) dairy cows (27 Fleckvieh and 8Holstein Friesian). Cattle were given 15 kg corn silage, 20 kg grasssilage, and 3 kg grass hay as daily basal feed. A concentrate diet wasgiven on the basis of the amount of milk production. Blood samples,Milk constituents, BCS and BFT were investigated every 2 months.Depending on the day postpartum of sampling, data were divided into3 lactation stages; early (up to 75 days postpartum), mid (76 to 150days), and late (after 151 days plus dry cows) lactation. Also,depending on the season at the time of sampling; the data were dividedinto 4 seasons, spring (April), summer (June and August), autumn(October) and winter (December and February). Statistical analyseswere conducted with the SPSS; ANOVA was used for lactation stageand season comparison. The interaction between the two factors of theyear was done by MANOVA.Results: Lactation stage had a significant influence on both bloodmetabolites (glucose, BHBA, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), albumen,cholesterol, Mg) and milk components ( milk fat, milk protein milkurea) in addition to BCS and BFT. No significant effect of the lactationstage was detected on total protein (TP), Ca, P, Cu and Zn. At the sametime the season of the year has a significant impact on all parametersstudied except BHBA, P and BFT. BCS was higher at late lactation(mean±SD) (3.36±0.41) than early (3.23±0.44) and mid (2.91±0.39)lactation. A significant interaction between stage of lactation andseason of the year was detected for TP, cholesterol and milk protein.BFT correlated positively with BCS (r=0.84) and also milk urea andBUN (r=0.84) correlated positively. Milk yield and milk protein werecorrelated negatively(r=-0.61). Both BCS and BFT correlatednegatively with cholesterol r= (-0.4).Conclusion: Stage of lactation and season influenced the biochemicalparameters and metabolites in blood and milk as well as bodycondition. Therefore, the interaction between these two factors be takeninto account when assessing the nutritional status of dairy cows indifferent climatic periods and in different stage of lactation.

542 Occurrence of Subclinical Metabolic Disorders and Possibilityof the Prevention by Licking Block Supplementation in BeefCows

L. Könyves1, V. Jurkovich1, A. Tirián1, L. Tegzes1, O. Szenci2,Z. Szelényi2, E. Brydl11 Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department

of Animal Hygene, Herd-health and Veterinary Ethology, Budapest,Hungary

2 Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Clinic forLarge Animals, Budapest, Hungary

The aim of the study was to reveal the occurrence of subclinicalmetabolic disorders in charolais suckler herd in the winter calvingperiod and spring breeding season. The biological effect of anexperimental licking block containing protein source, molasses,minerals and vitamins was also evaluated as a possible tool ofpreventing metabolic disorders. Charolais cows (n=114) were selectedrandomly into experimental and control group (n=57-57). From thesegroups 12-12 cows were assigned randomly for metabolic profile tests.The experimental group was supplemented with experimental lickingblock (voluntary intake about 1.5 kg/cow/day) from 1 month beforeexpected calving until the end of breeding season. Differentmanifestations of energy imbalance (increased fat mobilisation,hypoglicaemia, hyperketonaemia) and acid load was diagnosed withhigh occurrence in both groups. Protein-, phosphorous-, sodium- andcarotene shortage was diagnosed in the control group. The urea,phosphorous, carotene concentration in blood plasma and sodiumconcentration in urine were significantly higher in experimental groupcompared to control. The licking block had no effect on energymetabolism, acid-base balance, Ca, Mg, K, Cu, Zn, Se and Mn supply.There was no difference between groups in mortality- and culling rate,the postnatal calves mortality, metritis and the number of veterinary

treatments. There was 7.3 % higher conception rate in the experimentalgroup but the detected subclinical metabolic disorders might play aremarkable role in poor reproductive performance in both group.Key words: metabolic disorders, beef cow, supplementation

543 Body Condition Score at Calving and Supplementation withYeast Affect Blood Mineral and Liver EnzymeConcentrations in Peripheral Blood of Peri-parturient DairyCows

L. O’Grady, R. Alibrahim, V. Gath, M. Doherty, F. Mulligan University College Dublin, School of Agriculture, Food Science andVeterinary Medicine, Dublin, Ireland

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of body conditionscore (BCS) at calving and supplementation with a live yeast culture(Yea-Sacc1026, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, CBS 493.94) beginning twoweeks pre-calving on the metabolic status of peri-parturient dairy cows.Forty Holstein/Friesian cows of mixed parity were randomly allocated totwo groups depending on BCS approximately 60 days prior to parturition.Both groups were fed grass silage ad-libitum for the entire 60 days pre-calving and half of each group were supplemented with a dairy compoundcontaining 2.5g of thermo-stable yeast supplement for the last 14 dayspre-calving and during the first 70 days of lactation. Blood samples weretaken via jugular venipuncture on the day of calving (12-24 hrs postcalving) and on days 5, 15, 25 and 35 post-calving and analysed for Ca,Mg, P, gammaglutamate transferase (GGT), glutamate dehydrogenase(GLDH) and bilirubin (BIL). Data was analysed using ANOVA and theProc GLM statement of SAS separately for each day of sampling as a 2 X2 factorial with BCS group, supplement group, BCS group x supplementgroup and parity included in the model. Dairy cows in the high BCS grouphad a higher (P<0.05) Mg status than cows in the low BCS group on theday of calving (1.07±0.044 Vs 0.91±0.046 mmol/l). The high BCS groupalso had a lower (P=0.06) Ca status (2.09±0.064 vs 1.92 vs 0.061 mmol/l)and tended to have a lower P (P<0.10) status than cows in the low BCSgroup (1.44±0.087 vs 1.24±0.084) on the day of calving. Yeastsupplementation had no effect (P>0.05) on Ca, Mg or P status on the dayof calving. At day 5 post-calving there was a significant interaction ofBCS group and supplement group on blood Ca status (P<0.05) with lowBCS group cows having a higher Ca status for the yeast supplement grouponly. Yeast supplemented cows had lower (P<0.05) circulatingconcentrations of GLDH on the day of calving and 5 days post-calving.However yeast supplemented cows had a higher (P<0.05) circulatingconcentrations of BIL at day 35 post-calving. High BCS group cows hadhigher (P<0.05) circulating concentrations of BIL at 5 days post-calvingand at 25 days post-calving and tended to have higher circulating BILconcentrations on day 35 post-calving. These data indicate that bodycondition score at calving and yeast supplementation alter major mineraland liver enzyme concentrations in the peripheral blood or peri-parturientdairy cows.

544 Serum Concentration of Minerals and 25-hydroxyvitamin Din Periparturient Dairy Cows and its Relation to BackfatThickness

G. Salgado1, J. Bouda1, A. Castillo1, J. Doubek2, S. Dávila3,J. Quintero4, H. Romero4

1 Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia - UNAM, Patologia,México D.F., Mexico

2 Veterinary and Pharmaceutical University Brno, PhysiologicalSciences, Brno, Czech Republic

3 Microtec, Analisis Clinicos, México D.F., Mexico4 Laboratorio de Analisis Clinicas y Patologia Veterinaria, Patologia

Clinica, Gomez Palacio Dgo., Mexico

The objective of this study was to compare concentration of Ca, P, Mgand 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH D3) and its relation to backfatthickness (BFT) in periparturient primiparous and multiparous dairycows. The study was realized in a commercial dairy farm (5000 dairycows, milk yield 8500 kg) in the region of La Laguna Durango, Mexico.We used 30 animals, Group 1 (n=16) multiparous cows, Group 2 (n=14)primiparous cows. Blood samples were collected from tail vein on day7 to 3 before expected calving date, 6 h postpartum (before colostrummilking and treatment) and 12 h postpartum. Calcium borogluconatewas administered to multiparous cows 6 h after calving. Between 7 and3 days before calving, body condition score (BCS) was evaluated andBFT was measured by ultrasound (Bantam Medical Imaging E.I). The




serum concentrations of Ca, P and Mg were determined by Randox kitsin semiautomatic biochemical analyzer (Selectra Junior), theconcentration of 25-OH D3 by chemiluminescence assay (DiaSorin,LIAISON). The concentrations of Ca, P, Mg and 25-OHD3 werecompared by repeated measures ANOVA. BCS and BFT werecompared by student´s t-test. Significant difference was found inconcentration of Ca, P, Mg and 25-OH D3 with respect to time sampling(p<0.05) and between groups except for P concentration (p<0.05). Nodifference was found in BCS between groups (p>0.05). BFT was greaterin multiparous cows (32.20±5.37 vs 24.64±3.56) (p<0.01). Thecorrelation between BCS and concentrations of Ca, P, Mg and 25-OHD3 was low (r=-0.23, r=-0.12, r=-0.29 y r=0.18, respectively) Bettercorrelations were found between BFT and Ca, P, Mg, 25-OH D3 (r=-0.52, r=0.55, r= -0.51 y r= 0.53, respectively). The concentrations of Caand P were decreased in both groups during the first 12 h postpartum andhigher in primiparous cows before parturition. The concentration of Mgwas increased in both groups 6 and 12 h postpartum, and was higher at7 d in primiparous cows. The concentration of 25-OH D3 increased inboth groups at 6 h and decreased 12 h postpartum, but was higher inmultiparous cows. There was poor relationship between BFT and serumCa, P, Mg and 25-OH D3.Key words: hypocalcemia, dairy cows, 25-OH D3

545 Relationship between Body Condition and MetabolicParameters in Dairy Cows according to Different Days inMilk

Z. Gergácz1, E. †Báder1, E. Szûcs1, A. Kovács1, L. Könyves2,E. Brydl11 University of Western Hungary Faculty of Food and Agriculture

Science, Department of Cattle and Sheep Breeding,Mosonmagyaróvár, Hungary

2 Szent István University Faculty of Veterinary Science, Departmentof Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Veterinary Ethology,Budapest, Hungary

The aim of the study was to analyse the relationship between the bodycondition and the results of metabolic profile test have been done indairy cows in different days in milk (DIM). Blood and urine sampleswere taken from 1984 clinically healthy cows, selected randomly fromvarious groups of cows with different physiological stage of lactationand gestation, 3-5 hours after the morning feeding. The groups differedin respect of daily milk yield, stage of lactation and gestation. During thesamplings body condition scoring (BCS) was done as well. The cowswere kept at 49 large scale dairy farm located in different part ofHungary. In the present study the following groups of cows were tested:cows 12 days prior to expected parturition, cows average DIM 3, 18, 44,76, 104, 133 and 218 with the n=373, 270, 566, 287, 185, 153, 42 and108, respectively. The results of the examination can be summarised asfollowing: The BCS decreased from the 1st day of lactation (3.48)onwards till the 44th day (2.65) and slightly increased till the day 216(2.89). The haemoglobin value and the glucose concentration in bloodsamples were ranging within the physiological range and followed thetendency of BCS changing at P<0,001, P<0,01, respectively. There wasa close negative correlation between the NEFA concentration in bloodsamples and the BCS changing (P<0,01). The aceto-acetic acidconcentration exceeded the upper limit of the physiological rangeindicating hyperketonaemia at DIM 18. The AST activity valueexceeded the upper limit of physiological range and followed thetendency of BCS changing (P<0.01). The urea concentration in theblood exceeded the upper limit of the physiological range in all cows.The NABE value in the urine samples indicated acid load in all groupssampled. According to the result of cluster analysis relationship wasfound between the BCS, days in milk, glucose, aceto-acetic acid andNEFA concentration in the blood. The results of the study confirm thatthe body condition scoring is a reliable tool for revealing the risk ofmetabolic disorders caused by malnutrition.Key words: body condition, days in milk, haemoglobin, glucose,NEFA, aceto-acetic acid, AST, blood urea, NABE

546 Selenium Blood Levels and Lymphocyte Response toMitogenic Treatment in Cows and their Calves Supplementedwith Organic and Anorganic Forms of Selenium

P. Slavik1, J. Sichtar1, M. Brix2, J. Illek2, R. Rajmon1, F. Jilek1

1 Czech University of Life Science Prague, Department of VeterinarySciences, Prague, Czech Republic

2 University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Clinicof Ruminant Diseases, Brno, Czech Republic

The objective of our study was to determine, whether supplementationswith different sources of selenium can influence its level in the bloodand the mitotic activity of lymphocytes. 60 Charolais cows in latepregnancy were divided into three groups. The same feed ration of hay,silage, and premix was given to all animals ad libitum. In the twosupplemented groups, the premix was enriched with an organic sourceof selenium (group ”O”)-selenised yeast (Sel-Plex50, Alltech,Nicholasville KY) or with inorganic form (group “I”)-sodium selenite,50mg of Se/kg of premix. The control group (“C”) received the basicpremix without any selenium supplement. The average intake ofselenium in both supplemented groups was 3.5 mg Se/head and day. Inweek 6 of supplementation, blood samples were taken from 10 cows ineach group which were just before calving. These cows gave birth 1 or2 weeks later, and their calves were sampled at the age of 5 days. Theremainders of the cows were sampled in week 12 with similarsubsequent labour and the sampling of their calves. Selenium bloodlevels were determined, and transformation assay was performed in theentire blood culture. Non-specific mitogens - phytohaemagglutinin,concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen were used. The incorporationof 3H-thymidine was measured with a microplate scintillation andluminescence counter. Lymphocyte mitotic activity was determined asthe number of signals per 1000 lymphocytes for each mitogenictreatment. ANOVA and MANOVA tests were used for statisticalevaluation. The “O” animals showed higher selenium blood levels atboth sampling times compared to the other groups (P < 0.01). The “I”animals (cows as well as calves) increased their selenium blood levelsbetween the 1st and the 2nd sampling (P < 0.01). Such a difference wasnot observed in the “C” or “O” groups. Mitotic activity differed ingeneral according to the mitogenic treatment used. “C” calves showedhigher activity than their mother s (P < 0.05). At least some types ofmitogenic treatment induced significantly higher lymphocyte responsein “O” and “I” animals as compared to the “C” ones. Similarly, somedifferences were observed between the “O” and “I” groups. Theactivity was generally higher in animals with a higher selenium bloodlevel (P < 0.05).This work was supported by a grant No. QF 4005 and 1G46086

547 Milk Fat and Protein Contents as Additional Indicators forPrediction of the Onset of Cyclic Ovarian Activity in DairyCows Post Partum

J. Sichtar, P. Slavik, R. Rajmon, L. Kourimska, P. Klabanova, F. Jilek Czech University of Life Science Prague, Department of VeterinarySciences, Prague, Czech Republic

The metabolic status of dairy cows influences their reproductivesystem as well as their milk production. The objective of this studywas to verify possible relations between certain milk parameters andthe reinitiating of cyclic ovarian activity in high producing dairycows post partum (p.p.). Twenty-four Holstein cows with an averageyield of 8 700 l per lactation were monitored from their giving birthto their 60th day post partum. The animals were kept in the samestable and fed with the same feed ratio. They showed no clinical signsof any illness. The milk was sampled with an auto sampler during theafternoon milking every other day from day 6 p.p. Fat and proteincontents of the milk were determined (Milcoscan, Foss Electric).Simultaneously, the ovarian activity was monitored by ultrasoundexamination. The first ovulation appeared before day 22 p.p. in 8cows (i.e. 33 %), between days 22 and 60 p.p. in 10 cows (42 %) and6 cows (25%) showed no ovulation before day 60 p.p. The milkprotein generally tended to decrease temporarily, whereas the milk fatusually increased first, then dropped for some period, as well.Therefore, the fat-protein difference increased first and decreasedagain later. During the period between days 11 and 22 p.p., the milkprotein was lower and fat as well as the fat-protein difference higherin animals, which did not ovulate before day 60 p.p., compared toboth remaining groups. The differences were highly significant. Thedifferences between animals ovulating before day 22 p.p. and thoseovulating between days 22 to 60 p.p. were insignificant but showed asimilar trend. When these two groups were compared on the basis ofthe last two milk samples before day 22 p.p., the Multiple ANOVAtest confirmed the significance of the difference just above the criticallevel (p=0,058). When milk composition just before the first postpartal ovulation (i.e. the last 2 samples) in individual cows was




evaluated, highly significantly greater milk protein was detected inthose animals ovulating before day 22 p.p.Our study demonstrates that these indicators could be useful inestimation of the post partal onset of ovarian activity in dairy cows. Alarger complex of metabolic status indicators in milk will be the subjectof our subsequent studies. This work was supported by a grant No. MSM 6046070901 and1G46086

548 Effect of Organic and Inorganic Zinc Supplementation on thePrevention of Zinc Deficiency in Aberdeen Angus Calves

S. Dresler, L. Perlikova, D. Kumprechtova, J. Illek University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno,Czech Republic

Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the effect ofsupplementation of suckling Aberdeen Angus (AA) calves withdifferent forms of zinc during the grazing season.Material and methods: At the beginning of the grazing season, zincdeficient was diagnosed in AA calves (n=16) at 2 to 5 weeks ofage along with their mothers, into two groups (Control and Bioplex).The calves suckled milk, were given starter feed and gradually weregetting used to graze. The calf starter feed consisted of crimped wheat,oats, barley and protein concentrate. The starter feed contained 36 mgzinc per 1 kg and was given ad libitum to calves from 1 week of age.After the beginning of grazing season, the zinc concentration in starter

feed was increased by 30 mg per kg (total 60 mg Zn/kg). The Controlcalves received starter feed with zinc sulphate, the Bioplex calvesreceived calf starter with organic zinc (Bioplex-Zn). Calves in bothgroups received starter feed ad libitum. The experiment lasted 2months. At the beginning and the end of the trial the calves wereweighed and each calf was withdrawn a blood sample to measure zincconcentration and selected parameters of metabolic profile. The resultswere statistically analysed and evaluated.Results: Initial serum zinc concentration was 6.55±0.80 and 7.10±0.6umol/l, serum total protein levels were 65.2 l and 66.5 g/l, and serumIgG levels were 14.8 g/l and 13.1 g/l in the Controls and Bioplex,respectively. At the end of the trial there was a significant increse inserum zinc concentrations in both groups, with Bioplex supplementedcalves showing a higher increase in plasma zinc levels. Zincconcentrations were 11.87±1.77 and 15.81±0.72 µmol/l in the Controland Bioplex groups, respectively. The differences were statisticallysignificant. The Bioplex supplemented calves showed higher IgGlevels. There were significant differences in daily weight gain betweenthe groups, too. While the Control calves showed the growth rate of1.12±0.07 kg per calf per day, the Bioplex calves grew 1.24±0.09 percalf per day.Conclusions: The dietary zinc supplementation in calves favourablyinfluenced serum zinc concentrations. The organic zincsupplementation resulted in a greater increase in serum zincconcentrations, serum IgG levels and weight gain. The organic form ofzinc can be recommended as a useful tool to prevent zinc deficiency incalves.

7 Health Status of Cows Before Parturition Associated withConcentration of GM1 & IgG in Colostrum and ReflectsResistance of Acquiring New IMI at Early Lactation

G. Leitner1, O. Krifucks1, S. Jacoby2, Y. Lavi3, N. Silanikove2

1 Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bacteriology, Bet Dagan, Israel2 Agricultural Research Ortganization, the Volcani Center, Animal

Science, Bet Dagan, Israel3 Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel

Objective: Study the association between the concentrations of IgGand Gangliosides type M1 (GM1) in colostrum of cows and IMI duringfirst weeks postpartum.Materials and methods: Israeli-Holstein cows n=108: 38 heifers and75 pluriparous cows. Cows were dried 60 d before next expectedparturition. During the 45 d prior to the end of lactation, the cows weretested 3 times on the quarter level for bacteriology and SCC. Colostrumof cows and heifers were tested on the day of parturition and thereaftermilk was tested at 10, 30 and 45 d postpartum for bacteriology andSCC. Bacterial identification and SCC were carried out according toIDF. Total IgG & GM1 (Relative values of GM1, GM1-RV) weredetermined as the reduction of binding of CT to PolySorb plates coatedwith GM1 by competition with the b-chain of cholera toxin (b-CT)were determined in the mixed colostrum. The effects of udder infectionand lactation (heifers vs pluriparous) on total IgG, GM1-RV & SCCwere determined by a two-way ANOVA in a random design. Lineardiscrimination analysis was used to distinguish between theclassification variable (uninfected or infected) based on total IgG andGM1-RV levels and records of infection. Results: High levels of IgG & GM1-RV in pluriparous cows wereassociated with lower new incidence of IMI in the subsequentlactation. The mean IgG level in colostrum of heifers was notsignificantly lower than that of pluriparous cows. Infected quartersof heifers or cows had significantly lower IgG levels than uninfectedquarters. The mean GM1-RV in the colostrum of infected heiferswas significantly higher than that of the pluriparous cows. Thisdifference was not found in uninfected animals. Moreover, inheifers, GM1-RV in infected quarters was not significantly higherthan in uninfected ones whereas in the pluriparous cows, GM1-RVlevels were significantly lower in the infected than in the uninfectedquarters. Linear discriminate analysis based on these two variablesyielded 70% successful classification. This analysis was lesssuccessful in heifers because a high proportion of them joined theherd already infected with bacteria.

Conclusions: The results suggest that the health status of the animal atthe last month before parturition is associated with colostrum qualityand reflects its resistance of acquiring new IMI. While in heifers, ofwhich high proportion joined the herd when already infected withbacteria no such association was found.

8 Cell Differentiation in Milk of Cows with Healthy Udders

D. Schwarz1, K. Failing2, W. Wolter3, CP. Czerny1

1 Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Institute of VeterinaryMedicine, Göttingen, Germany

2 Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Unit for Biomathematics andData Processing, Gießen, Germany

3 State Council Gießen, Milk Control, Wetzlar, Germany

Cell counts and the determination of differential cell patterns in milksamples are important criterions for the evaluation of udder health. Thelimits for the evaluation of udder health are well-defined by clear cut-offrates. The objective of our study was the analysis of somatic cellpopulations in foremilk samples to identify inflammations at asignificantly lower level than given by current definitions. The milk ofHolstein-Friesian cows (n=18) and German Simmental cows (n=2) withlow cell counts from five Hessian dairy farms was examinedcytologically. Cell counts were determined with a Fossomatic 5000 andbacteriological examinations. Milk smears were generated for each udderquarter and stained according to the method of Pappenheim. To create thedifferential cell patterns, 100 cells per milk smear were counted anddifferentiated by microscopy. The classification into different cell countgroups of all foremilk samples analyzed in the years 2000-2003 in theGerman federal state Hesse showed the importance of very low (7%) andlow (50%) cell counts. Moreover, the results of monthly cell countsdeveloped on quarter levels allowed to suggest inflammable reactions inthe cell count array lower than 100,000 cells/ml, because there were clearcell count variations visible in a little time period. All 80 udder quarterstested in our study were subdivided into groups with very low, low andmedium cell counts. In each group we found epithelial cells at thedifferential cell patterns of a maximum of 3%. The lymphocytesdominated the ‘very low’ group with an amount of 70%. The differentialcell patterns in the ‘low’ group consisted of ca. 40% lymphocytes and40% macrophages. The percentage of the polymorphonuclear neutrophilsclearly increased at cell counts of 43.000 cells/ml. These data indicatedinflammable reactions at such low cell counts. Our findings wereconfirmed by monitoring the development of the monthly cell counts. Thebacteriological examinations only identified S. aureus in one quarter, E.

Mastitis / Udder Health and Milk Quality



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