Effects of supplementing Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products to dairy cows from the day of dry-off through early lactation

The scope of this experiment was to study the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP; NutriTek, Diamond V) on milk yield, milk composition, somatic cell count, rumination activity, and immunometabolic profile (inflammation) of dairy cows during the peripartum period. Postpartum inflammation severity was evaluated as the liver functionality index (LFI). The LFI is based on profiles of specific blood inflammatory markers in the first month of lactation. We hypothesized that SCFP could increase the rumination time in dairy cows. Treatments were control (CTR; no supplement, n = 17) or SCFP (19 g/d of NutriTek, n = 17) included into a pellet delivered at robotic milking unit. Treatments were fed from d -60 to 42 relative to parturition. Cows were fed the same basal rations formulated to pre- or postpartum requirements. Cows were voluntarily milked with robotic milking unit. Blood samples were collected at d -60, -28, -7, 7, and 28 relative to parturition. To study the effect of the treatment and severity of inflammation during periparturient period on subsequent cow performance, cows were retrospectively divided into 2 groups based on their LFI score: low (LLFI) and high (HLFI). Thus, LFI grouping and supplementation treatment groups were as follows: LLFI-CTR, LLFI-SCFP, HLFI-CTR, HLFI-SCFP. Data were analyzed with ANOVA using a mixed model for repeated measures; the model included the effect of the diet, LFI group, time relative to parturition, and their interaction. The nonesterified fatty acids concentrations were greatest at d 7 of lactation for LLFI-CTR compared with other groups. No other differences in plasma metabolites were observed. The LLFI-CTR cows had a greater reduction of body condition score from d -7 until 28 relative to parturition compared with other groups. Somatic cell counts were not different among groups, with averages of 175, 169, 384, and 126 × 1,000 cells/mL for the HLFI-CTR, HLFI-SCFP, LLFI-CTR, and LLFI-SCFP group, respectively, regardless of day. However, the LLFI-CTR had greater somatic cell count on d 42 compared with other groups. During the week before parturition, the LLFI-CTR group had reduced rumination time of 46 min compared with the other 3 groups. However, the minutes of rumination per day was only different between LLFI-CTR and the LLFI-SCFP groups. Milk production of cows was different for LFI scores as follows: 50.2 versus 46.7 kg/d for HLFI and LLFI, respectively. Interestingly, there were no differences of milk production due to supplementation treatment of the HLFI cows. However, the LLFI-SCFP group produced 49.1 kg/d compared with 44.3 kg/d of the LLFI-CTR group during the first month of lactation. Milk composition did not differ throughout the experimental period for the 4 groups of cows. In conclusion, SCFP supplementation assisted cows experiencing low LFI to maintain milk production, somatic cell count, and plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentrations similar to cows with high LFI.

Genetic parameters of differential somatic cell count, milk composition, and cheese-making traits measured and predicted using spectral data in Holstein cows

Mastitis is one of the most prevalent diseases in dairy cattle and is the cause of considerable economic losses. Alongside somatic cell count (SCC), differential somatic cell count (DSCC) has been recently introduced as a new indicator of intramammary infection. The DSCC is expressed as a count or a proportion (%) of polymorphonuclear neutrophils plus lymphocytes (PMN-LYM) in milk somatic cells. These numbers are complemented to total somatic cell count or to 100 by macrophages (MAC). The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic variation and heritability of DSCC, and its correlation with milk composition, udder health indicators, milk composition, and technological traits in Holstein cattle. Data used in the analysis consisted in single test-day records from 2,488 Holstein cows reared in 36 herds located in northern Italy. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to predict missing information for some milk coagulation and cheese-making traits, to increase sample size and improve estimation of the genetic parameters. Bayesian animal models were implemented via Gibbs sampling. Marginal posterior means of the heritability estimates were 0.13 for somatic cell score (SCS); 0.11 for DSCC, MAC proportion, and MAC count; and 0.10 for PMN-LYM count. Posterior means of additive genetic correlations between SCS and milk composition and udder health were low to moderate and unfavorable. All the relevant genetic correlations between the SCC traits considered and the milk traits (composition, coagulation, cheese yield and nutrients recovery) were unfavorable. The SCS showed genetic correlations of -0.30 with the milk protein proportion, -0.56 with the lactose proportion and -0.52 with the casein index. In the case of milk technological traits, SCS showed genetic correlations of 0.38 with curd firming rate (k₂₀), 0.45 with rennet coagulation time estimated using the curd firming over time equation (RCT_eq), -0.39 with asymptotic potential curd firmness, -0.26 with maximum curd firmness (CF_max), and of -0.31 with protein recovery in the curd. Differential somatic cell count expressed as proportion was correlated with SCS (0.60) but had only 2 moderate genetic correlations with milk traits: with lactose (-0.32) and CF_max (-0.33). The SCS was highly correlated with the log PMN-LYM count (0.79) and with the log MAC count (0.69). The 2 latter traits were correlated with several milk traits: fat (-0.38 and -0.43 with PMN-LYM and MAC counts, respectively), lactose percentage (-0.40 and -0.46), RCT_eq (0.53 and 0.41), t_max (0.38 and 0.48). Log MAC count was correlated with k₂₀ (+0.34), and log PMN-LYM count was correlated with CF_max (-0.26) and weight of water curd as percentage of weight of milk processed (-0.26). The results obtained offer new insights into the relationships between the indicators of udder health and the milk technological traits in Holstein cows.

Effects of peripartal yeast culture supplementation on lactation performance, blood biomarkers, rumen fermentation, and rumen bacteria species in dairy cows

Feeding yeast culture fermentation products has been associated with improved feed intake and milk yield in transition dairy cows. These improvements in performance have been further described in terms of rumen characteristics, metabolic profile, and immune response. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a commercial yeast culture product (YC; Culture Classic HD, Phibro Animal Health) on performance, blood biomarkers, rumen fermentation, and rumen bacterial population in dairy cows from -30 to 50 d in milk (DIM). Forty Holstein dairy cows were enrolled in a randomized complete block design from -30 to 50 DIM and blocked according to expected calving day, parity, previous milk yield, and genetic merit. At -30 DIM, cows were assigned to either a basal diet plus 114 g/d of ground corn (control; n = 20) or a basal diet plus 100 g/d of ground corn and 14 g/d of YC (n = 20), fed as a top-dress. Cows received the same close-up diet from 30 d prepartum until calving [1.39 Mcal/kg of dry matter (DM) and 12.3% crude protein (CP)] and lactation diet from calving to 50 DIM (1.60 Mcal/kg of DM and 15.6% CP). Blood samples and rumen fluid were collected at various time points from -30 to 50 d relative to calving. Cows fed YC compared with control showed a trend for increased energy-corrected milk (+3.2 kg/d). Lower somatic cell counts were observed in YC cows than in control. We detected a treatment × time interaction in nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) that could be attributed to a trend for greater NEFA in YC cows than control at 7 DIM, followed by lower NEFA in YC cows than control at 14 and 30 DIM. In the rumen, YC contributed to mild changes in rumen fermentation, mainly increasing postpartal valerate while decreasing prepartal isovalerate. This was accompanied by alterations in rumen microbiota, including a greater abundance of cellulolytic (Fibrobacter succinogenes) and lactate-utilizing bacteria (Megasphaera elsdenii). These results describe the potential benefits of supplementing yeast culture during the late pregnancy through early lactation, at least in terms of rumen environment and performance.

Abstract 28: Prognostic value of baseline and early changes of circulating cell-free (cf)DNA in the neoadjuvant setting of early stage colon cancer (CC)

Introduction Circulating tumour (ct)DNA is an indicator of minimal residual disease and negative prognostic factor in stage II-III CC treated with surgery +/- adjuvant chemotherapy. No study, however, has ever analysed the prognostic value of this biomarker in CC patients (pts) treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. We sought to evaluate the prognostic value of baseline and early, on-treatment changes of cfDNA and ctDNA in stage II-III CC pts who were treated with one cycle of neoadjuvant FOLFOX chemotherapy followed by surgery +/- adjuvant FOLFOX chemotherapy in the PePiTA trial.

Methods PePITA was a multicentre, single-arm, prospective phase II trial aiming to test in vivo tumour chemosensitivity as assessd by metabolic response using 18F-FDG PET/CT scan of early stage CC and to evaluate its association with survival outcome (NCT00994864). Plasma samples were prospectively collected at baseline and 2 weeks (ie, after one cycle of neoadjuvant FOLFOX chemotherapy). cfDNA was isolated with the QIAmp circulating nucleic acid kit (Qiagen), and quantified with the Qubit fluorometer (Life-Technologies). cfDNA samples were bisulfite converted using the EZ DNA Methylation-Gold™ Kit (Zymo Research), with NPY and WIF1 being selected as universal methylation markers for ctDNA and analysed with digital droplet (dd)PCR technology. Data from ddPCR were processed with the QuantaSoft V1.6 software (BioRad). The primary outcome measure was 3-year disease-free survival (DFS). Receiver operating characteristics curve analyses, Kaplan-Meier method, cox proportional hazards models and log-rank tests were used. Statistical analyses were carried out with the SPSS for MacOS version 25.0 (SPSS Inc).

Results 80 pts were included (ypStage I-II 56%, ypStage III 44%). After a median follow-up of 52.5 months, 3-year DFS was 80% (95%CI 71.2-90.8) and 5-year OS 84% (95%CI 75.2-94.9). Pts with high (≥1.2 ng/µl) baseline cfDNA level had worse 3-year DFS (48% vs 80%; HR 2.72, 95%CI 1.02-7.25; p=0.036) and 5-year OS (71% vs 90%; HR 5.36, 95%CI 1.14-25.28; p=0.017) than those with low baseline cfDNA level. In a multivariable analysis (including sex, ypStage and CEA), baseline cfDNA was the only factor showing a trend towards statistical significance (HR DFS 2.6, 95%CI 0.96-7.01; p=0.059; HR OS 4.65, 95%CI 0.97-22.32; p=0.055). Early changes of cfDNA (Δ ≥11%) after one cycle of neoadjuvant FOLFOX chemotherapy failed to predict survival (HR DFS 1.08, 95%CI 0.42-2.81; p=0.873; HR OS 0.68, 95%CI 0.19-2.39; p=0.543). ctDNA analyses are ongoing and will be presented at the meeting.

Conclusions For the first time, we have shown that baseline cfDNA may predict survival outcome in early stage CC pts treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Pending confirmation in larger series, testing for cfDNA at baseline could help select high-risk pts who may benefit from neoadjuvant, FOXTROT-like, treatment strategies.

Citation Format: Giacomo Bregni, Elena Trevisi, Chiara Senti, Andrea Pretta, Caroline Vandeputte, Pashalina Kehagias, Elena Acedo Reina, Amélie Deleporte, Paraskevas Gkolfakis, Jean-Luc Van Laethem, Philippe Vergauwe, Marc Van den Eynde, Guido Deboever, Jos Janssens, Gauthier Demolin, Stephane Holbrechts, Marylene Clausse, Thierry De Grez, Marc Peeters, Lionel D'Hondt, Karen Geboes, Tatiana Besse-Hammer, Alexis Buggenhout, Françoise Rothé, Patrick Flamen, Alain Hendlisz, Francesco Sclafani. Prognostic value of baseline and early changes of circulating cell-free (cf)DNA in the neoadjuvant setting of early stage colon cancer (CC) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 28.

Maternal supplementation with cobalt sources, folic acid, and rumen-protected methionine and its effects on molecular and functional correlates of the immune system in neonatal Holstein calves

Calves born to multiparous Holstein cows fed during the last 30 d of pregnancy 2 different cobalt sources [cobalt glucoheptonate (CoPro) or cobalt pectin (CoPectin)], folic acid (FOA), and rumen-protected methionine (RPM) were used to study neonatal immune responses after ex vivo lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. Groups were (n = 12 calves/group) CoPro, FOA+CoPro, FOA+CoPectin, and FOA+CoPectin+RPM. Calves were weighed at birth and blood collected at birth (before colostrum), 21 d of age, and 42 d of age (at weaning). Growth performance was recorded once a week during the first 6 wk of age. Energy metabolism, inflammation, and antioxidant status were assessed at birth through various plasma biomarkers. Whole blood was challenged with 3 µg/mL of LPS or used for phagocytosis and oxidative burst assays. Target genes evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR in whole blood samples were associated with immune response, antioxidant function, and 1-carbon metabolism. The response in mRNA abundance in LPS challenged versus nonchallenged samples was assessed via Δ = LPS challenged - LPS nonchallenged samples. Phagocytosis capacity and oxidative burst activity were measured in neutrophils and monocytes, with data reported as ratio (percentage) of CD14 to CH138A-positive cells. Data including all time points were subjected to ANOVA using PROC MIXED in SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc.), with Treatment, Sex, Age, and Treatment × Age as fixed effects. A 1-way ANOVA was used to determine differences at birth, with Treatment and Sex as fixed effects. Calf birth body weight and other growth parameters did not differ between groups. At birth, plasma haptoglobin concentration was lower in FOA+CoPro compared with CoPro calves. We detected no effect for other plasma biomarkers or immune function due to maternal treatments at birth. Compared with CoPro, in response to LPS challenge, whole blood from FOA+CoPectin and FOA+CoPectin+RPM calves had greater mRNA abundance of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1). No effect for other genes was detectable. Regardless of maternal treatments, sex-specific responses were observed due to greater plasma concentrations of haptoglobin, paraoxonase, total reactive oxygen metabolites, nitrite, and β-carotene in female versus male calves at birth. In contrast, whole blood from male calves had greater mRNA abundance of IRAK1, CADM1, and ITGAM in response to LPS challenge at birth. The longitudinal analysis of d 0, 21, and 42 data revealed greater bactericidal permeability-increasing protein (BPI) mRNA abundance in whole blood from FOA+CoPectin versus FOA+CoPro calves, coupled with greater abundance in FOA+CoPro compared with CoPro calves. Regardless of maternal treatments, most genes related to cytokines and cytokine receptors (IL1B, IL10, TNF, IRAK1, CXCR1), toll-like receptor pathway (TLR4, NFKB1), adhesion and migration (ICAM1, ITGAM), antimicrobial function (MPO), and antioxidant function (GPX1) were downregulated over time. Phagocytosis capacity and oxidative burst activity in both neutrophils and monocytes did not differ due to maternal treatment. Regardless of maternal treatments, we observed an increase in the percentage of neutrophils capable of phagocytosis and oxidative burst activity over time. Overall, these preliminary assessments suggested that maternal supplementation with FOA and Co combined with RPM had effects on a few plasma biomarkers of inflammation at birth and molecular responses associated with inflammatory mechanisms during the neonatal period.

Plasma albumin-to-globulin ratio before dry-off as a possible index of inflammatory status and performance in the subsequent lactation in dairy cows

The dry-off of dairy cows represents an important phase of the lactation cycle, influencing the outcome of the next lactation. Among the physiological changes, the severity of the inflammatory response can vary after the dry-off, and this response might have consequences on cow adaptation in the transition period. The plasma protein profile is a diagnostic tool widely used in humans and animals to assess the inflammatory status and predict the outcome of severe diseases. The albumin-to-globulin ratio (AG) can represent a simple and useful proxy for the inflammatory condition. In this study, we investigated the relationship between AG before dry-off and inflammation, metabolic profile, and performance of 75 Holstein dairy cows. Blood samples were collected from -62 (7 d before dry-off) to 28 d relative to calving (DFC) to measure metabolic profile biomarkers, inflammatory variables, and liver function. Daily milk yield in the first month of lactation was recorded. Milk composition, body condition score, fertility, and health status were also assessed. The AG calculated 1 wk before dry-off (-62 DFC) was used to retrospectively group cows into tertiles (1.06 ± 0.09 for HI, 0.88 ± 0.04 for IN, and 0.72 ± 0.08 for LO). Data were subjected to ANOVA using the PROC MIXED program in SAS software. Differences among groups observed at -62 DFC were almost maintained throughout the period of interest, but AG peaked before calving. According to the level of acute-phase proteins (haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, albumin, cholesterol, retinol-binding protein), bilirubin, and paraoxonase, a generally overall lower inflammatory condition was found in HI and IN than in the LO group immediately after the dry-off but also after calving. The HI cows had greater milk yield than LO cows, but no differences were observed in milk composition. The somatic cell count reflected the AG ratio trend, with higher values in LO than IN and HI either before dry-off or after calving. Fertility was better in HI cows, with fewer days open and services per pregnancy than IN and LO cows. Overall, cows with high AG before dry-off showed an improved adaptation to the new lactation, as demonstrated by a reduced systemic inflammatory response and increased milk yield than cows with low AG. In conclusion, the AG ratio before dry-off might represent a rapid and useful proxy to evaluate the innate immune status and likely the ability to adapt while switching from the late lactation to the nonlactating phase and during the transition period with emphasis on early lactation.

Feeding a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product improves udder health and immune response to a Streptococcus uberis mastitis challenge in mid-lactation dairy cows

Background

We aimed to characterize the protective effects and the molecular mechanisms of action of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (NTK) in response to a mastitis challenge. Eighteen mid-lactation multiparous Holstein cows (n = 9/group) were fed the control diet (CON) or CON supplemented with 19 g/d NTK for 45 d (phase 1, P1) and then infected in the right rear quarter with 2500 CFU of Streptococcus uberis (phase 2, P2). After 36-h, mammary gland and liver biopsies were collected and antibiotic treatment started until the end of P2 (9 d post challenge). Cows were then followed until day 75 (phase 3, P3). Milk yield (MY) and dry matter intake (DMI) were recorded daily. Milk samples for somatic cell score were collected, and rectal and udder temperature, heart and respiration rate were recorded during the challenge period (P2) together with blood samples for metabolite and immune function analyses. Data were analyzed by phase using the PROC MIXED procedure in SAS. Biopsies were used for transcriptomic analysis via RNA-sequencing, followed by pathway analysis.

Results

DMI and MY were not affected by diet in P1, but an interaction with time was recorded in P2 indicating a better recovery from the challenge in NTK compared with CON. NTK reduced rectal temperature, somatic cell score, and temperature of the infected quarter during the challenge. Transcriptome data supported these findings, as NTK supplementation upregulated mammary genes related to immune cell antibacterial function (e.g., CATHL4, NOS2), epithelial tissue protection (e.g. IL17C), and anti-inflammatory activity (e.g., ATF3, BAG3, IER3, G-CSF, GRO1, ZFAND2A). Pathway analysis indicated upregulation of tumor necrosis factor α, heat shock protein response, and p21 related pathways in the response to mastitis in NTK cows. Other pathways for detoxification and cytoprotection functions along with the tight junction pathway were also upregulated in NTK-fed cows.

Conclusions

Overall, results highlighted molecular networks involved in the protective effect of NTK prophylactic supplementation on udder health during a subclinical mastitic event.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-021-00560-8.

Maternal body condition during late-pregnancy is associated with in utero development and neonatal growth of Holstein calves

Background

Nutritional management in the dry period can alter body condition score (BCS) in dairy cows, a subjective measure of body fat. As such, differences in BCS during late-pregnancy not only mirror nutrient utilization by fat depots, but also can play important roles on the metabolic and hormonal environment. We investigated the association between cow BCS during late-pregnancy on developmental parameters and blood variables of neonatal calves. Forty-nine multiparous Holstein cows were retrospectively divided by prepartal BCS into normal BCS ≤3.25 (NormBCS; 3.02 ± 0.17, n = 30) or high BCS ≥3.75 (HighBCS; 3.83 ± 0.15, n = 19) groups. Plasma samples were collected from cows at − 10 d relative to parturition. Body weight, hip and wither height, hip width and body length were measured at birth and weekly through weaning (42 d of age) and until 9 weeks of age. Calf blood samples were collected from the jugular vein at birth (before receiving colostrum, 0 d), 24 h after first colostrum and at 7, 21, 42 and 50 d of age. The data were subjected to ANOVA using the mixed procedure of SAS. The statistical model included day, BCS, and their interactions.

Results

Dry matter intake (kg/d or % of body weight) during the last 4 weeks of pregnancy was lower (P ≤ 0.06) in HighBCS cows. Plasma concentrations of fatty acids, ceruloplasmin, and nitric oxide were greater overall (P < 0.05) at d − 10 prior to calving in HighBCS cows, and they tended (P = 0.08) to have greater concentrations of reactive oxygen metabolites. Birth body weight was lower (P = 0.03) in calves born to dams with HighBCS. In addition, plasma concentrations of fatty acids, albumin and urea (P < 0.05) were greater in those calves. Although calves born to cows with HighBCS maintained a lower postnatal body weight (P = 0.04), hip and wither height, hip width, and body length, there was no difference (P > 0.05) in daily starter intake and average daily gain due to maternal BCS.

Conclusions

Overall, results highlight an association between BCS during late-gestation on in utero calf development and postnatal growth. A high maternal BCS during late-gestation was associated with lower calf body weights, which could be due to lower maternal intakes and a state of inflammation and metabolic stress.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-021-00566-2.

The use of an upgraded GreenFeed system and milk fatty acids to estimate energy balance in early-lactation cows

Measurements of energy balance (EB) require the use of respiration chambers, which are quite expensive and laborious. The GreenFeed (GF) system (C-Lock Inc.) has been developed to offer a less expensive, user friendly alternative. In this study, we used the GF system to estimate the EB of cows in early lactation and compared it with EB predicted from energy requirements for dairy cows in the Finnish feeding standards. We also evaluated the association between milk fatty acids and the GF estimated EB. The cows were fed the same grass silage but supplemented with either cereal grain or fibrous by-product concentrate. Cows were followed from 1 to 18 wk of lactation, and measurements of energy metabolism variables were taken. Data were subjected to ANOVA using the mixed model procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). The repeatability estimates of the gaseous exchanges from the GF were moderate to high, presenting an opportunity to use it for indirect calorimetry in EB estimates. Energy metabolism variables were not different between cows fed different concentrates. However, cows fed the grain concentrate produced more methane (24.0 MJ/d or 62.9 kJ/MJ of gross energy) from increased digestibility than cows fed the by-product concentrate (21.3 MJ/d or 56.5 kJ/MJ of gross energy). Nitrogen metabolism was also not different between the diets. Milk long-chain fatty acids displayed an inverse time course with EB and de novo fatty acids. There was good concordance (0.85) between EB predicted using energy requirements derived from the Finnish feed table and EB estimated by the GF system. In conclusion, the GF can accurately estimate EB in early-lactating dairy cows. However, more data are needed to further validate the system for a wide range of dietary conditions.

Associations between differential somatic cell count and milk yield, quality, and technological characteristics in Holstein cows

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between differential somatic cell count (DSCC) and milk quality and udder health traits, and for the first time, between DSCC and milk coagulation properties and cheesemaking traits in a population of 1,264 Holstein cows reared in northern Italy. Differential somatic cell count represents the combined proportions of polymorphonuclear neutrophils plus lymphocytes (PMN-LYM) in the total somatic cell count (SCC), with macrophages (MAC) making up the remaining proportion. The milk traits investigated in this study were milk yield (MY), 8 traits related to milk composition and quality (fat, protein, casein, casein index, lactose, urea, pH, and milk conductivity), 9 milk coagulation traits [3 milk coagulation properties (MCP) and 6 curd firming (CF) traits], 7 cheesemaking traits, 3 cheese yield (CY) traits, and 4 milk nutrient recovery in the curd (REC) traits. A linear mixed model was fitted to explore the associations between SCS combined with DSCC and the aforementioned milk traits. An additional model was run, which included DSCC expressed as the PMN-LYM and MAC counts, obtained by multiplying the percentage of PMN-LYM and MAC by SCC in the milk for each cow in the data set. The unfavorable association between SCS and milk quality and technological traits was confirmed. Increased DSCC was instead associated with a linear increase in MY, casein index, and lactose proportion and a linear decrease in milk fat and milk conductivity. Accordingly, DSCC was favorably associated with all MCP and CF traits (with the exception of the time needed to achieve maximum, CF), particularly with rennet coagulation time, and it always displayed linear relationships. Differential somatic cell count was also positively associated with the recovery of milk nutrients in the curd (protein, fat, and energy), which increased linearly with increasing DSCC. The PMN-LYM count was rarely associated with milk traits, even though the pattern observed confirmed the results obtained when both SCS and DSCC were included in the model. The MAC count, however, showed the opposite pattern: MY, casein index, and lactose percentage decreased and milk conductivity increased with an increasing MAC count. No significant association was found between PMN-LYM count and MCP, CF, CY, and REC traits, whereas MAC count was unfavorably associated with MCP, CF traits, some CY traits, and all REC traits. Our results showed that the combined information derived from SCS and DSCC might be useful to monitor milk quality and cheesemaking-related traits.

One-carbon, carnitine, and glutathione metabolism-related biomarkers in peripartal Holstein cows are altered by prepartal body condition

We investigated how prepartal body condition score (BCS) alters key hepatic enzymes associated with 1-carbon, carnitine, and glutathione metabolism and the related biomarkers in liver tissue and plasma of periparturient dairy cows. Twenty-six multiparous Holstein dairy cows were retrospectively selected according to BCS at 4 wk prepartum and divided into high (HighBCS, BCS ≥ 3.50) and normal (NormBCS, BCS ≤ 3.25) BCS groups (n = 13 each). Blood plasma samples were obtained at -30, -10, 7, 15, and 30 d relative to calving. Liver tissue biopsies were performed at -15, 7, and 30 d relative to calving, and samples were used to assess protein abundance via Western blot assay. Cows in the HighBCS group lost ∼1 unit of BCS between -4 and 4 wk around calving, while NormBCS cows lost ∼0.5 unit in the same period. Prepartal dry matter intake (DMI, kg/d) did not differ between groups. Compared with NormBCS cows, HighBCS cows had higher postpartal DMI and milk yield (+5.34 kg/d). In addition, greater overall plasma concentrations of fatty acids and activity of the neutrophil-enriched enzyme myeloperoxidase were observed in HighBCS compared with NormBCS cows. Despite similar reactive oxygen metabolite concentrations in both groups at 30 d, HighBCS cows had lower overall concentrations of β-carotene and tocopherol, explaining the lower (BCS × Time) antioxidant capacity (ferric reducing ability of plasma). The HighBCS cows also had greater liver malondialdehyde concentrations and superoxide dismutase activity at 30 d. Overall, compared with NormBCS cows, HighBCS cows had lower hepatic protein abundance of the 1-carbon metabolism enzymes cystathionine-β-synthase, betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase, and methionine adenosyltransferase 1 A (MAT1A), as well as the glutathione metabolism-related enzymes glutathione S-transferase α 4 and glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3). A lower protein abundance of glutathione S-transferase mu 1 (GSTM1) at -15 and 7 d was also observed. Regardless of BCS, cows had increased abundance of GSTM1 and GPX3 between -15 and 7 d around calving. A marked decrease of gamma-butyrobetaine dioxygenase 1 from -10 to 7 d in HighBCS compared with NormBCS cows suggested a decrease in de novo carnitine synthesis that was partly explained by the lower abundance of MAT1A. Overall, data suggest biologic links between BCS before calving, milk yield, immune response, and hepatic reactions encompassing 1-carbon metabolism, carnitine, and antioxidant synthesis.

Feasibility and clinical impact of routine molecular testing of gastrointestinal cancers at a tertiary centre with a multi-gene, tumor-agnostic, next generation sequencing panel

BACKGROUND

High-throughput sequencing technologies are increasingly used in research but limited data are available on the feasibility and value of these when routinely adopted in clinical practice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed all consecutive cancer patients for whom genomic testing by a 48-gene next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel (Truseq Amplicon Cancer Panel, Illumina) was requested as part of standard care in one of the largest Belgian cancer networks between 2014 and 2019. Feasibility of NGS was assessed in all study patients, while the impact of NGS on the decision making was analyzed in the group of gastrointestinal cancer patients.

RESULTS

Tumor samples from 1064 patients with varying tumor types were tested, the number of NGS requests increasing over time (p < .0001). Success rate and median turnaround time were 91.4% and 12.5 days, respectively, both significantly decreasing over time (p ≤ .0002). Non-surgical sampling procedure (OR 7.97, p < .0001), tissue from metastatic site (OR 2.35, p = .0006) and more recent year of testing (OR 1.79, p = .0258) were independently associated with NGS failure. Excluding well-known actionable or clinically relevant mutations which are recommended by international guidelines and commonly tested by targeted sequencing, 57/279 (20.4%) assessable gastrointestinal cancer patients were found to have tumors harboring at least one actionable altered gene according to the OncoKB database. NGS results, however, had a direct impact on management decisions by the treating physician in only 3 cases (1.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirm that NGS is feasible in the clinical setting with acceptably low failure rates and rapid turnaround time. In gastrointestinal cancers, however, NGS-based multiple-gene testing adds very little to standard targeted sequencing, and in routine practice the clinical impact of NGS panels including genes which are not routinely recommended by international guidelines remains limited.

A mycotoxin-deactivating feed additive counteracts the adverse effects of regular levels of Fusarium mycotoxins in dairy cows

Little is known about the effects of commonly found levels of Fusarium mycotoxins on the performance, metabolism, and immunity of dairy cattle. We investigated the effects of regular contamination levels, meaning contamination levels that can be commonly detected in dairy feeds, of deoxynivalenol (DON) and fumonisins (FB) in total mixed ration (TMR) on the performance, diet digestibility, milk quality, and plasma liver enzymes in dairy cows. This trial examined 12 lactating Holstein dairy cows using a 3-period × 3-treatment Latin square design. The experimental period was 21 d of mycotoxin exposure followed by 14 d of washout. During treatment periods, cows received one of 3 diets: (1) CTR (control) diet of TMR contaminated with 340.5 µg of DON/kg of dry matter (DM) and 127.9 µg FB/kg of DM; (2) MTX diet of TMR contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins at levels higher than CTR but below US and European Union guidelines (i.e., 733.0 µg of DON/kg of DM and 994.4 µg of FB/kg of DM); or (3) MDP diet, which was MTX diet supplemented with a mycotoxin deactivator product (i.e., 897.3 µg of DON/kg of DM and 1,247.1 µg of FB/kg of DM; Mycofix, 35 g/animal per day). During washout, all animals were fed the same CTR diet. Body weight, body condition score, DM intake, dietary nutrient digestibility, milk production, milk composition and rennet coagulation properties, somatic cell count, blood serum chemistry, hematology, serum immunoglobulin concentrations, and expression of multiple genes in circulating leucocytes were measured. Milk production was significantly greater in the CTR group (37.73 kg/d) than in the MTX (36.39 kg/d) and the MDP (36.55 kg/d) groups. Curd firmness and curd firming time were negatively affected by the MTX diet compared with the other 2 diets. Furthermore, DM and neutral detergent fiber digestibility were lower after the MTX diet than after the CTR diet (67.3 vs. 71.0% and 42.8 vs. 52.3%). The MDP diet had the highest digestibility coefficients for DM (72.4%) and neutral detergent fiber (53.6%) compared with the other 2 diets. The activities of plasma liver transaminases were higher after the MTX diet than after the CTR and MDP diets. Compared with the CTR diet, the MTX diet led to slightly lower expression of genes related to immune and inflammatory functions, indicating that Fusarium mycotoxins had an immunosuppressive effect. Our results indicated that feed contaminated with regular levels of Fusarium mycotoxins adversely affected the performance, milk quality, diet digestibility, metabolic variables, and immunity of dairy cows, and that supplementation with mycotoxin deactivator product counteracted most of these negative effects.

Luteinized thecoma (thecomatosis) with sclerosing peritonitis: a systematic review of the literature of the last 25 years

INTRODUCTION

Luteinized thecoma (thecomatosis) with sclerosing peritonitis (LTSP) is a very uncommon syndrome, characterized by the presence of single or bilateral ovarian thecomas and peritoneal fibrotic lesions. The disease occurs in young women and it can lead to peritoneal fibrosis and bowel obstruction. The pathogenesis of this syndrome remains still largely unknown. Surgery represents the cornerstone of treatment, but resection alone does not always allow a complete disease control. Attempts at medical treatments have been reported in recent years, but a real standard therapy has not yet been defined.

AREAS COVERED

We performed a systematic review of literature, collecting all the papers that reported cases of LTSP, since its first description in 1994. We found that, in these 25 years, less than 50 cases have been described in literature.

EXPERT OPINION

Along with the established role of surgery, adjuvant treatment with hormonal agents, in particular in estrogen receptor expression, seems to be a promising approach. However, more efforts must be carried out to describe treatment and outcome of new cases, improving knowledge about this rare condition.

Changes in fatty acids in plasma and association with the inflammatory response in dairy cows abomasally infused with essential fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid during late and early lactation

Dairy cows are exposed to increased inflammatory processes in the transition period from late pregnancy to early lactation. Essential fatty acids (EFA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) are thought to modulate the inflammatory response in dairy cows. The present study investigated the effects of a combined EFA and CLA infusion on the fatty acid (FA) status in plasma lipids, and whether changes in the FA pattern were associated with the acute phase and inflammatory response during late pregnancy and early lactation. Rumen-cannulated Holstein cows (n = 40) were assigned from wk 9 antepartum to wk 9 postpartum to 1 of 4 treatment groups. Cows were abomasally supplemented with coconut oil (CTRL, 76 g/d), linseed and safflower oil (EFA, 78 g/d of linseed oil and 4 g/d of safflower oil; ratio of oils = 19.5:1; n-6:n-3 FA ratio = 1:3), Lutalin (CLA, 38 g/d; isomers cis-9,trans-11 and trans-10,cis-12; each 10 g/d), or both (EFA+CLA). Blood samples were taken to measure changes in FA in blood plasma on d -63, -42, 1, 28, and 56, and in plasma lipid fractions (cholesterol esters, free fatty acids, phospholipids, and triglycerides) on d -42, 1, and 56 relative to calving, and in erythrocyte membrane (EM) on d 56 after calving. Traits related to the acute phase response and inflammation were measured in blood throughout the study. Liver samples were obtained for biopsy on d -63, -21, 1, 28, and 63 relative to calving to measure the mRNA abundance of genes related to the inflammatory response. The concentrations of α-linolenic acid and n-3 FA metabolites increased in lipid fractions (especially phospholipids) and EM due to EFA supplementation with higher α-linolenic acid but lower n-3 metabolite concentrations in EFA+CLA than in EFA treatment only. Concentration of linoleic acid decreased in plasma fat toward calving and increased during early lactation in all groups. Concentration of plasma arachidonic acid was lower in EFA- than in non-EFA-treated groups in lipid fractions and EM. The cis-9,trans-11 CLA increased in all lipid fractions and EM after both CLA treatments. Plasma haptoglobin was lowered by EFA treatment before calving. Plasma bilirubin was lower in EFA and CLA than in CTRL at calving. Plasma concentration of IL-1β was higher in EFA than in CTRL and EFA+CLA at certain time points before and after calving. Plasma fibrinogen dropped faster in CLA than in EFA and EFA+CLA on d 14 postpartum. Plasma paraoxonase tended to be elevated by EFA treatment, and was higher in EFA+CLA than in CTRL on d 49. Hepatic mRNA abundance revealed time changes but no treatment effects with respect to the inflammatory response. Our data confirmed the enrichment of n-3 FA in EM by EFA treatment and the inhibition of n-3 FA desaturation by CLA treatment. The elevated n-3 FA status and reduced n-6:n-3 ratio by EFA treatment indicated a more distinct effect on the inflammatory response during the transition period than the single CLA treatment, and the combined EFA+CLA treatment caused minor additional changes on the anti-inflammatory response.

Prognostic Value of the Pace of Tumor Progression as Assessed by Serial 18F-FDG PET/CT Scan and Liquid Biopsy in Refractory Colorectal Cancer: The CORIOLAN Trial

Simple Summary

Management of chemorefractory colorectal cancer patient is challenging, and reliable tools which can predict individual patient prognosis and help the decision making are needed. In this study, we hypothesized that the natural pace of cancer growth and progression, as assessed by early changes of a number of imaging and circulating biomarkers which are surrogates of tumor burden (i.e., metabolically active tumor volume, carcinoembryonic antigen, circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA), could predict patient prognosis. By prospectively recruiting 47 eligible patients who had measurements of these biomarkers taken two weeks apart in the absence of any active anti-cancer treatment, we failed to demonstrate our hypothesis. On the other hand, we found that baseline assessment of the same biomarkers was associated with survival outcomes. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and translate them into applications for clinical practice.

Abstract

Introduction: Decision making in refractory colorectal cancer (rCRC) is challenging, with limited data available to predict patient outcome. We conducted a study to assess the pace of cancer progression as a potential prognostic and decision tool. Methods: CORIOLAN was a prospective, single-center, single-arm trial recruiting refractory CRC patients with an ECOG performance status of ≤1 and an estimated life expectancy of ≥12 weeks. 18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT) scan and blood sample collection were carried out at baseline and after 2 weeks with no cancer treatment given between these timepoints. The primary objective was to evaluate the association between pace of cancer progression as defined by changes of the whole-body metabolically active tumor volume (WB-MATV) and overall survival (OS). Exploratory objectives included evaluation of the prognostic value of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Results: 47 eligible patients who had received a median number of 5 (range 2–8) prior treatments were enrolled. At the time of analysis, 45 deaths had occurred, with 26% of patients dying within 12 weeks. The median OS was 6.3 months (range 0.4–14.3). The median relative delta between WB-MATV at baseline and 2 weeks was +21%. Changes of WB-MATV, however, failed to predict OS (hazard ratio (HR) 1.3, p = 0.383). Similarly, no association was observed between changes of any of the circulating biomarkers investigated and prognosis. By contrast, high WB-MATV (4.2 versus 9.4 months; HR 3.1, p = 0.003), high CEA (4.4 versus 7.0 months; HR 1.9, p = 0.053), high cfDNA (4.7 versus 7.0 months; HR 2.2, p = 0.015) and high CTC count (3.3 versus 7.5 months; HR 6.5, p < 0.001) at baseline were associated with worse OS. Conclusions: In this study, approximately 1 out of 4 refractory CRC patients who were judged to have a life expectancy >12 weeks actually died within 12 weeks. Baseline assessment of WB-MATV, cfDNA, CTCs and CEA, but not early change evaluation of the same, may help to refine patient prognostication and guide management decisions.

Molecular networks of insulin signaling and amino acid metabolism in subcutaneous adipose tissue are altered by body condition in periparturient Holstein cows

Peripartal cows mobilize not only body fat but also body protein to satisfy their energy requirements. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of prepartum BCS on blood biomarkers related to energy and nitrogen metabolism, and mRNA and protein abundance associated with AA metabolism and insulin signaling in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in peripartal cows. Twenty-two multiparous Holstein cows were retrospectively classified into a high BCS (HBCS; n = 11, BCS ≥ 3.5) or normal BCS (NBCS; n = 11, BCS ≤ 3.17) group at d 28 before expected parturition. Cows were fed the same diet as a total mixed ration before parturition and were fed the same lactation diet postpartum. Blood samples collected at -10, 7, 15, and 30 d relative to parturition were used for analyses of biomarkers associated with energy and nitrogen metabolism. Biopsies of SAT harvested at -15, 7, and 30 d relative to parturition were used for mRNA (real time-PCR) and protein abundance (Western blotting) assays. Data were subjected to ANOVA using the MIXED procedure of SAS (v. 9.4; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC), with P ≤ 0.05 being the threshold for significance. Cows in HBCS had greater overall plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentrations, due to marked increases at 7 and 15 d postpartum. This response was similar (BCS × Day effect) to protein abundance of phosphorylated (p) protein kinase B (p-AKT), the insulin-induced glucose transporter (SLC2A4), and the sodium-coupled neutral AA transporter (SLC38A1). Abundance of these proteins was lower at -15 d compared with NBCS cows, and either increased (SLC2A4, SLC38A1) or did not change (p-AKT) at 7 d postpartum in HBCS. Unlike protein abundance, however, overall mRNA abundances of the high-affinity cationic (SLC7A1), proton-coupled (SLC36A1), and sodium-coupled amino acid transporters (SLC38A2) were greater in HBCS than NBCS cows, due to upregulation in the postpartum phase. Those responses were similar to protein abundance of p-mTOR, which increased (BCS × Day effect) at 7 d in HBCS compared with NBCS cows. mRNA abundance of argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) and arginase 1 (ARG1) also was greater overall in HBCS cows. Together, these responses suggested impaired insulin signaling, coupled with greater postpartum AA transport rate and urea cycle activity in SAT of HBCS cows. An in vitro study using adipocyte and macrophage cocultures stimulated with various concentrations of fatty acids could provide some insights into the role of immune cells in modulating adipose tissue immunometabolic status, including insulin resistance and AA metabolism.

Association of postpartum uterine diseases with lying time and metabolic profiles of multiparous Holstein dairy cows in the transition period

The objective of this study was to assess how uterine disorders alter the lying behaviour and plasma biomarkers in dairy cows. 34 multiparous cows were retrospectively classified into three groups according to the first uterine disorder that cows were diagnosed with: retained placenta (RP), metritis (MET), or healthy (H; cows without any clinical disease). Lying time (LT) and duration of lying bouts (LB) were monitored between 6 weeks prior to and 8 weeks after calving via the AfiAct II pedometer. Blood samples were collected routinely between 14 days before and 28 days after calving. Data was analysed using Proc MIXED of SAS ver. 9.4. Regardless of grouping, both LT and LB were longer (P < 0.01) in the prepartum period (774 ± 16.6 min/day and 89.9 ± 2.1 min/bout) than in the first 28 days after calving (DFC; 653 ± 16.7 min/day and 63.7 ± 2.1 min/bout). Cows with RP had longer LT than healthy cows during the last 3 weeks before calving (837 ± 30.9 vs. 735 ± 27.1 min/day; P < 0.05). LT in cows with MET and healthy cows were not significantly different. The LB was similar among groups, averaging 76.1 ± 3.4 min/bout in healthy cows, 73.2 ± 3.8 min/bout in cows with RP, and 75.2 ± 3.7 min/bout in cows with MET (P > 0.05). Compared with healthy cows, cows with RP laid down longer and stood up for shorter times (P < 0.05), particularly before calving. In addition, cows with RP had increased mobilization of body stores and more pronounced inflammatory status, as demonstrated by plasma haptoglobin (P = 0.04) and albumin (P < 0.01) concentrations. Our data suggest that automatic monitoring of lying behaviour could help identify cows at increased risk of developing certain disorders, such as RP.

Neuroendocrine breast carcinoma: a rare but challenging entity

Breast carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation, also known as neuroendocrine breast carcinoma (NEBC), includes a heterogeneous group of rare tumors, which account for 2–5% of all invasive breast carcinomas. Because of their low incidence, most of the current limited knowledge of these tumors derives from anecdotal case reports or small retrospective series. The diagnosis of NEBC is based on the presence of morphological features similar to gastrointestinal and lung NETs and neuroendocrine markers. NEBCs are usually hormone receptors positive and HER2 negative, but despite this luminal phenotype, most recent studies suggested that NEBC could be associated with worse prognosis compared to invasive breast cancer without neuroendocrine differentiation. Due to its rarity and lack of randomized data, there is little evidence to guide the choice of treatment, so NEBC is currently treated as any invasive breast carcinoma not-otherwise specified. Recently, attempts to molecularly characterize NEBC have been made, in order to provide new targets for a more personalized treatment of this uncommon entity.

The effect of parity number on the metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative status of dairy sheep during the transition period

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether dairy sheep during the transition period are affected by their parity numbers with regard to (1) body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), and production performance (milk yield and composition) and (2) metabolic, inflammation, and stress biomarkers. For this purpose, 30 Sarda dairy ewes [15 primiparous (PRP) and 15 multiparous (MUP) ewes] were recruited on d 90 of gestation. Each group was homogeneous according to age, BW, and BCS. Sampling was carried out at -60, -30, -7, 0, +30, and +60 d from lambing. The MUP ewes showed a higher BW (46.32 vs. 38.71 kg) and larger litter size (1.45 vs. 1.06 kg) but a lower BCS (2.47 vs. 2.70) than the PRP ewes. Furthermore, the MUP ewes had lower concentrations of glucose (3.49 vs. 4.27 mol/L), cholesterol (1.63 vs. 1.81 mmol/L), free fatty acids (0.47 vs. 0.62 mmol/L), and triglycerides (0.22 vs. 0.25 mmol/L) compared with PRP ewes. With regard to inflammation and oxidative stress parameters, the PRP group had higher haptoglobin (0.48 vs. 0.18 g/L) and paraoxonase (187.90 vs. 152.11 U/L) activity than the MUP group. Overall, the MUP ewes were characterized by greater milk production performance and greater feed intake, resulting in a better energy balance, than the PRP ewes. Interestingly, these findings highlighted a different metabolic and inflammatory response over the transition period between PRP and MUP ewes, with the latter displaying lower concentrations of inflammatory-related biomarkers.

18F-FDG PET scan and liquid biopsy as tools to assess the pace of tumor progression and to predict overall survival (OS) in refractory colorectal cancer (rCRC): The CORIOLAN trial

e16012

Background: Decision making in rCRC patients (pts) who have exhausted all available therapies is challenging. Clinical trials, treatment re-challenge and best supportive care are possible options. There are limited data, however, to predict pt outcome and guide treatment choices. Methods: CORIOLAN was a prospective, single-centre, single-arm trial. Eligible pts had to have an ECOG PS of ≤1, a life expectancy of ≥12 weeks (wks) and had to have received prior standard chemotherapy and targeted agents. No cancer treatment was allowed within 4 wks prior to study entry. 18F-FDG PET scan and blood sample collection were carried out at baseline and after 2 wks. No treatment was given between these timepoints, while further management was left to the treating physician. The primary objective was to evaluate the association between tumour metabolic progression index as defined by changes of the whole-body metabolically active tumour volume (WB-MATV) and OS. Exploratory objectives included evaluation of the prognostic value of circulating biomarkers such as cell-free DNA (cfDNA), circulating tumour cells (CTCs, CellTracks Analyzer II, CellSearch) and CEA. Validated cut-off values, Kaplan-Meier method, Cox proportional hazards model and logrank tests were used (R version 3.5.1). Results: From 2012 to 2018, 47 eligible pts were enrolled. Median age: 65 years (38-82). ECOG PS 1: 64%. Males: 53%. Left-sided tumours: 71%. Metastases: lung (83%), liver (66%), lymph-nodes (45%), peritoneum (30%), bone (21%). Known RAS/BRAF mutations: 57%/0%. Median number of prior treatments: 5 (2-8). At the time of analysis, 45 deaths had occurred, with 26% of pts dying within 12 wks. The median relative delta between WB-MATV at baseline and after 2 wks was +21%. Changes of WB-MATV, however, failed to predict OS (p≥0.383). Similarly, no association was observed between changes of any of the circulating biomarkers investigated and prognosis. By contrast, low WB-MATV (9.4 vs 4.2 months, HR 0.65, p = 0.003), low cfDNA (7.0 vs 4.7 months, HR 0.58, p = 0.015), low CTC count (7.5 vs 3.3 months, HR 0.67, p < 0.001) and low CEA (7.0 vs 4.4 months, HR 0.58, p = 0.053) at baseline were associated with longer OS. Conclusions: This study confirms the inaccuracy of life expectancy estimation for rCRC pts based on a physician judgement largely relying on conventional criteria. Baseline assessment of WB-MATV, cfDNA, CTCs and CEA, but not early change evaluation of the same, may help to refine pt prognostication and guide management decisions. Clinical trial information: NCT01591590 .

Ocular metastases from neuroendocrine tumors: A literature review

Background Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) include malignancies with different origins, clinical presentations and prognosis. Synchronous or metachronous ocular metastases from NET are extremely rare. The diagnostic algorithm and the management of this entity has not been established. The aim of our study was to characterize this subgroup. Methods We performed an electronic search in PubMed Library databases for articles about ocular metastases from NET published from 1966 to August 2019. Results We identified 21 manuscripts with a total of 64 cases. The primary origin of the tumor was lung in 28 (43.7%) cases, ileum in 14, unknown in 8, colon in 3, rectum, esophagus, thymus, testicle and liver in 1 case each, and not reported in 6. The histopathological confirmation of NET metastasis was available in 25 cases (39%). The most common sites of intraocular lesions was the uvea in 30 (46.8%) cases, followed by the orbit in 27. Most of the patients (n = 44, 68.7%) presented eye symptoms. Locoregional interventions were performed in 40 patients (62.5%): 15 cases underwent surgery, 19 had external beam radiotherapy, 5 had brachytherapy, and 1 patient received laser photocoagulation. These treatments ensured the local control in 28 of the 40 (70%) cases treated with a locoregional approach. Conclusions Ocular metastases from NETs are exceptionally rare, and originate more frequently from foregut primary tumors (lung, esophageal, and thymic NETs). The most common ocular site of secondary lesions is the uvea, likely due to its high vascularization. Locoregional approaches appear to be effective in terms of local disease control.

Body condition alters glutathione and nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2)-related antioxidant network abundance in subcutaneous adipose tissue of periparturient Holstein cows

Dairy cows with high body condition score (BCS) in late prepartum are more susceptible to oxidative stress (OS). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (NFE2L2) is a major antioxidant transcription factor. We investigated the effect of precalving BCS on blood biomarkers associated with OS, inflammation, and liver function, along with mRNA and protein abundance of targets related to NFE2L2 and glutathione (GSH) metabolism in s.c. adipose tissue (SAT) of periparturient dairy cows. Twenty-two multiparous Holstein cows were retrospectively classified into a high BCS (HBCS; n = 11, BCS ≥3.5) or normal BCS (NBCS; n = 11, BCS ≤3.17) on d 28 before parturition. Cows were fed a corn silage- and wheat straw-based total mixed ration during late prepartum, and a corn silage- and alfalfa hay-based total mixed ration postpartum. Blood samples obtained at -10, 7, 15, and 30 d relative to parturition were used for analyses of biomarkers associated with inflammation, including albumin, ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, and myeloperoxidase, as well as OS, including ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and β-carotene. Adipose biopsies harvested at -15, 7, and 30 d relative to parturition were analyzed for mRNA (real-time quantitative PCR) and protein abundance (Western blotting) of targets associated with the antioxidant transcription regulator nuclear factor, NFE2L2, and GSH metabolism pathway. In addition, concentrations of GSH, ROS and malondialdehyde were measured. High BCS cows had lower prepartum dry matter intake expressed as a percentage of body weight along with greater BCS loss between -4 and 4 wk relative to parturition. Plasma concentrations of ROS and FRAP increased after parturition regardless of treatment. Compared with NBCS, HBCS cows had greater concentrations of FRAP at d 7 postpartum, which coincided with peak values in those cows. In addition, NBCS cows experienced a marked decrease in plasma ROS after d 7 postpartum, while HBCS cows maintained a constant concentration by d 30 postpartum. Overall, ROS concentrations in SAT were greater in HBCS cows. However, overall mRNA abundance of NFE2L2 was lower and cullin 3 (CUL3), a negative regulator of NFE2L2, was greater in HBCS cows. Although HBCS cows had greater overall total protein abundance of NFE2L2 in SAT, ratio of phosphorylated NFE2L2 to total NFE2L2 was lower, suggesting a decrease in the activity of this antioxidant system. Overall, mRNA abundance of the GSH metabolism-related genes glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), and transaldolase 1 (TALDO1), along with protein abundance of glutathione S-transferase mu 1 (GSTM1), were greater in HBCS cows. Data suggest that HBCS cows might experience greater systemic OS after parturition, while increased abundance of mRNA and protein components of the GSH metabolism pathway in SAT might help alleviate tissue oxidant status. Data underscored the importance of antioxidant mechanisms at the tissue level. Thus, targeting these pathways in SAT during the periparturient period via nutrition might help control tissue remodeling while allowing optimal performance.