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Casaro S, Pérez-Báez J, Bisinotto RS, Chebel RC, Prim JG, Gonzalez TD, Carvalho Gomes G, Tao S, Toledo IM, do Amaral BC, Bollati JM, Zenobi MG, Martinez N, Dahl GE, Santos JEP, Galvão KN. Association between prepartum body condition score and prepartum and postpartum dry matter intake and energy balance in multiparous Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:4381-4393. [PMID: 38278298 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The objectives of this retrospective observational study were to investigate the association between BCS at 21 d before calving with prepartum and postpartum DMI, energy balance (EB), and milk yield. Data from 427 multigravid cows from 11 different experiments conducted at the University of Florida (Gainesville, FL) were used. Cows were classified according to their BCS at 21 d before calving as fat (BCS ≥ 4.00; n = 83), moderate (BCS = 3.25-3.75; n = 287), and thin (BCS ≤ 3.00; n = 57). Daily DMI from -21 to -1 and from +1 to +28 DIM was individually recorded. Energy balance was calculated as the difference between net energy for lactation consumed and required. Dry matter intake in fat cows was lower than that in moderate and thin cows both prepartum (fat = 9.97 ± 0.21, moderate = 11.15 ± 0.14, and thin = 11.92 ± 0.22 kg/d) and postpartum (fat = 14.35 ± 0.49, moderate = 15.47 ± 0.38, and thin = 16.09 ± 0.47 kg/d). Dry matter intake was also lower for moderate cows compared with thin cows prepartum, but not postpartum. Energy balance in fat cows was lower than in moderate and thin cows both prepartum (fat = -4.16 ± 0.61, moderate = -1.20 ± 0.56, and thin = 0.88 ± 0.62 Mcal/d) and postpartum (fat = -12.77 ± 0.50, moderate = -10.13 ± 0.29, and thin = -6.14 ± 0.51 Mcal/d). Energy balance was also lower for moderate cows compared with thin cows both prepartum and postpartum. There was a quadratic association between BCS at 21 d before calving and milk yield. Increasing BCS from 2.5 to 3.5 was associated with an increase in daily milk yield of 6.0 kg and 28 d cumulative milk of 147 kg. Increasing BCS from 3.5 to 4.5 was associated with a decrease in daily milk yield of 4.4 kg and 28 d cumulative milk of 116 kg. In summary, a moderate BCS at 21 d before calving was associated with intermediate DMI and EB pre- and postpartum but greater milk yield compared with thinner and fatter cows. Our findings indicate that a moderate BCS is ideal for ensuring a successful lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Casaro
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J Pérez-Báez
- Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas y Veterinarias, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 10904
| | - R S Bisinotto
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - R C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J G Prim
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - T D Gonzalez
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - G Carvalho Gomes
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - S Tao
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA 31793
| | - I M Toledo
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - B C do Amaral
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J M Bollati
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - M G Zenobi
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - N Martinez
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - G E Dahl
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - K N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610.
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Prim JG, Casaro S, Mirzaei A, Gonzalez TD, de Oliveira EB, Veronese A, Chebel RC, Santos JEP, Jeong KC, Lima FS, Menta PR, Machado VS, Galvão KN. Application of behavior data to predictive exploratory models of metritis self-cure and treatment failure in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:4881-4894. [PMID: 38310966 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
The objective was to evaluate the performance of exploratory models containing routinely available on-farm data, behavior data, and the combination of both to predict metritis self-cure (SC) and treatment failure (TF). Holstein cows (n = 1,061) were fitted with a collar-mounted automated-health monitoring device (AHMD) from -21 ± 3 to 60 ± 3 d relative to calving to monitor rumination time and activity. Cows were examined for diagnosis of metritis at 4 ± 1, 7 ± 1, and 9 ± 1 d in milk (DIM). Cows diagnosed with metritis (n = 132), characterized by watery, fetid, reddish/brownish vaginal discharge (VD), were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 treatments: control (CON; n = 62), no treatment at the time of metritis diagnosis (d 0); or ceftiofur (CEF; n = 70), subcutaneous injection of 6.6 mg/kg of ceftiofur crystalline-free acid on d 0 and 3 relative to diagnosis. Cure was determined 12 d after diagnosis and was considered when VD became mucoid and not fetid. Cows in CON were used to determine SC, and cows in CEF were used to determine TF. Univariable analyses were performed using farm-collected data (parity, calving season, calving-related disorders, body condition score, rectal temperature, and DIM at metritis diagnosis) and behavior data (i.e., daily averages of rumination time, activity generated by AHMD, and derived variables) to assess their association with metritis SC or TF. Variables with P-values ≤0.20 were included in the multivariable logistic regression exploratory models. To predict SC, the area under the curve (AUC) for the exploratory model containing only data routinely available on-farm was 0.75. The final exploratory model to predict SC combining routinely available on-farm data and behavior data increased the AUC to 0.87, with sensitivity (Se) of 89% and specificity (Sp) of 77%. To predict TF, the AUC for the exploratory model containing only data routinely available on-farm was 0.90. The final exploratory model combining routinely available on-farm data and behavior data increased the AUC to 0.93, with Se of 93% and Sp of 87%. Cross-validation analysis revealed that generalizability of the exploratory models was poor, which indicates that the findings are applicable to the conditions of the present exploratory study. In summary, the addition of behavior data contributed to increasing the prediction of SC and TF. Developing and validating accurate prediction models for SC could lead to a reduction in antimicrobial use, whereas accurate prediction of cows that would have TF may allow for better management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica G Prim
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Segundo Casaro
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Ahmadreza Mirzaei
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Tomas D Gonzalez
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | | | - Anderson Veronese
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Ricardo C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - K C Jeong
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - F S Lima
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Paulo R Menta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409
| | - Vinicius S Machado
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409
| | - Klibs N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610.
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Santos MGS, Antonacci N, Van Dorp C, Mion B, Tulpan D, Ribeiro ES. Use of rumination time in health risk assessment of prepartum dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00848-8. [PMID: 38825107 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The objectives of this observational cohort study were to evaluate the associations of rumination time (RT) in the last week of pregnancy with transition cow metabolism, inflammation, health, and subsequent milk production, reproduction, and culling. Pregnant nulliparous (n = 199) and parous (n = 337) cows were enrolled 21 d before the expected calving. RT and physical activity were monitored automatically by sensors from d -21 to 15 relative to calving. Blood samples were collected on d -14, -5, 4, 8, and 12 ± 1 relative to calving. Diagnoses of clinical health problems were performed by researchers from calving to 15 d in milk (DIM). In classification 1, cows were ranked based on average daily RT in the last week of pregnancy and classified into terciles as short RT (SRT), moderate RT (MRT), or long RT (LRT) for association analyses. In classification 2, RT deviation from the parity average was used in a receiver operating characteristic curve to identify the best threshold to predict postpartum clinical disease. Cows were then classified as above the threshold (AT) or below the threshold (BT). Compared with cows with LRT, cows with SRT had greater serum concentrations of NEFA (0.47 vs 0.40 ± 0.01 mmol/L), BHB (0.58 vs 0.52 ± 0.01 mmol/L), and haptoglobin (0.22 vs 0.18 ± 0.008 g/L) throughout the transition period, and reduced concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, albumin, and magnesium in a time-dependent manner. Parous cows with SRT had higher odds of postpartum clinical disease (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.1-6.4), lower odds of pregnancy by 210 DIM (AOR: 0.34; CI: 0.15-0.75), and lower milk production (46.9 vs 48.6 ± 0.5 kg/d) than parous cows with LRT. Deviation in prepartum RT had good predictive value for clinical disease in parous cows (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.65; CI: 0.60-0.71) but not in nulliparous (AUC: 0.51; CI: 0.42-0.59). Separation of parous cows according to the identified threshold (≤-53 min from the parity average) resulted in differences in serum concentrations of NEFA (AT = 0.31 ± 0.006, BT = 0.38 ± 0.014 mmol/L), BHB (AT = 0.49 ± 0.008, BT = 0.53 ± 0.015 mmol/L), and globulin (AT = 32.3 ± 0.3, BT = 34.8 ± 0.5 g/L) throughout the transition period, as well as in serum cholesterol, urea, magnesium, albumin, and haptoglobin in a time-dependent manner. BT parous cows had higher odds of clinical disease (AOR: 3.7; CI: 2.1-6.4), reduced hazard of pregnancy (AHR: 0.64, CI: 0.47-0.89), greater hazard of culling (AHR: 2.1, CI: 1.2-3.6), and lower milk production (46.3 ± 0.7 vs 48.5 ± 0.3 kg/d). External validation using data from 153 parous cows from a different herd and the established threshold in RT deviation (≤-53 min) resulted in similar predictive value, with the odds of postpartum disease 2.4 times greater in BT than AT (37.5 vs 20.1%). In conclusion, RT in the wk preceding calving was a reasonable predictor of postpartum health and future milk production, reproduction, and culling in parous cows but not in nulliparous cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G S Santos
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - N Antonacci
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - C Van Dorp
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - B Mion
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - D Tulpan
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - E S Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1..
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Figueiredo CC, Casaro S, Cunha F, Merenda VR, de Oliveira EB, Pinedo P, Santos JEP, Chebel RC, Schuenemann GM, Bicalho RC, Gilbert RO, Zas SR, Seabury CM, Rosa G, Thatcher WW, Bisinotto RS, Galvão KN. Evaluating differences in milk production, reproductive performance, and survival associated with vaginal discharge characteristics and fever in postpartum dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00637-4. [PMID: 38580147 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The objective was to assess differences in productive and reproductive performance, and survival associated with vaginal discharge characteristics and fever in postpartum dairy cows located in Western and Southern states of the U.S.A. This retrospective cohort study included data from 3 experiments conducted in 9 dairies. Vaginal discharge was evaluated twice within 12 DIM and scored on a 5-point scale. The highest score observed for each cow was used for group assignment (VD group) as follows: VD 1 and 2 (VD 1/2; n = 1,174) = clear mucus/lochia with or without flecks of pus; VD 3 (n = 1,802) = mucopurulent with < 50% pus; VD 4 (n = 1,643) = mucopurulent with ≥50% of pus or non-fetid reddish/brownish mucous, n = 1,643; VD 5 = fetid, watery, and reddish/brownish, n = 1,800. All VD 5 cows received treatment according to each herd's protocol. Rectal temperature was assessed in a subset of VD 5 cows, and subsequently divided into Fever (rectal temperature ≥39.5°C; n = 334) and NoFever (n = 558) groups. A smaller proportion of cows with VD 5 (67.6%) resumed ovarian cyclicity compared with VD 1/2 (76.2%) and VD 4 (72.9%) cows; however, a similar proportion of VD5 and VD 3 (72.6%) cows resumed ovarian cyclicity. A smaller proportion of VD 5 (85.8%) cows received at least one artificial insemination (AI) compared with VD 1/2 (91.5%), VD 3 (91.0%), or VD 4 (91.6%) cows. Although we did not detect differences in pregnancy at first AI according to VD, fewer cows with VD 5 (64.4%) were pregnant at 300 DIM than cows with VD 1/2 (76.5%), VD 3 (76.2%), or VD 4 (74.7%). Hazard of pregnancy by 300 DIM was smaller for VD 5 compared with VD 1/2, VD 3, or VD 4 cows. A greater proportion of VD 5 cows were removed from the herd within 300 DIM compared with other VD groups. There was 760 kg lesser milk production within 300 DIM for VD 5 compared with VD 2, VD 3, and VD 4, whereas VD 2, VD 3, and VD 4 had similar milk production. We did not detect an association between fever at diagnosis of VD 5 and reproductive performance or milk production. A greater proportion of VD 5 cows without fever were removed from the herd by 300 DIM compared with VD 5 cows with fever. Differences in productive and reproductive performance, and removal of the herd were restricted to fetid, watery, and reddish/brownish vaginal discharge, which was independent of fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Figueiredo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA.
| | - S Casaro
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - F Cunha
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - V R Merenda
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - E B de Oliveira
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - P Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - R C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - G M Schuenemann
- Department of Veterinary Preventative Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - R C Bicalho
- FERA Diagnostics and Biologicals, College Station, TX 77845, USA
| | - R O Gilbert
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Ross University, St. Kitts, West Indies, KN
| | - S Rodriguez Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - C M Seabury
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - G Rosa
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - W W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - R S Bisinotto
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - K N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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Casaro S, Prim JG, Gonzalez TD, Bisinotto RS, Chebel RC, Marrero MG, Silva ACM, Santos JEP, Nelson CD, Laporta J, Jeon SJ, Bicalho RC, Driver JP, Galvão KN. Unraveling the immune and metabolic changes associated with metritis in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9244-9259. [PMID: 37641354 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The objective was to unravel the peripartum immune and metabolic changes associated with metritis in Holstein cows. Holstein cows (n = 128) had blood collected at -14, 0, 3, and 7 d relative to parturition (DRP). Flow cytometry was used to evaluate blood leukocyte counts, proportions, and activation. Total cells, live cells, single cells, monocytes (CD172α+/CD14+), polymorphonuclears (CD172α+/CD14-/SSChigh), B-cells (CD21+/MHCII+), CD4+ T-cells (CD4+), CD8+ T-cells (CD8+), and γδ T-cells (γδTCR+) were evaluated. Both CD62L and CD11b were used as markers of cell activation. Major histocompatibility complex class II was used as a marker of antigen presentation in monocytes. A Milliplex Bovine Cytokine/Chemokine 08-plex kit was used to evaluate plasma concentrations of IFN-γ, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α. The body weight (BW) change prepartum was calculated as the difference between calving BW and prepartum BW divided by the number of days between measurements. Plasma fatty acids (FA) were measured at -14 and 0 DRP using untargeted gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed by ANOVA for repeated measures. Cows that developed metritis (n = 57) had greater prepartum BW, prepartum BW loss, and greater FA concentrations at calving. Plasma FA at calving was positively correlated with IL-1β. Cows that developed metritis had persistent systemic inflammation, which was demonstrated by greater B-cell activation, greater pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations, and greater cell damage pre- and postpartum. Postpartum, we observed greater polymorphonuclear cell activation and extravasation but lesser monocytes and CD4+ T-cells activation and extravasation, which suggests postpartum immune tolerance. Greater prepartum adiposity in cows that developed metritis may lead to systemic inflammation pre- and postpartum and immune tolerance postpartum, which may lead to failure to prevent bacterial infection, and development of puerperal metritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Casaro
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J G Prim
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - T D Gonzalez
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - R S Bisinotto
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - R C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - M G Marrero
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - A C M Silva
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - C D Nelson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - J Laporta
- Department of Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - S J Jeon
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Long Island University, Brookville, NY 11548
| | - R C Bicalho
- FERA Diagnostics and Biologicals, College Station, TX 77845
| | - J P Driver
- Division of Animals Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211
| | - K N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610.
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Ryder J, Smith RF, Neary JM. Postpartum longissimus dorsi muscle loss, but not back fat, is associated with resumption of postpartum ovarian activity in dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:8087-8097. [PMID: 37562647 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this observational cohort study were to assess the effect of body condition score change, back fat depth change, and muscle diameter change on the time to commencement of luteal activity and first estrus in commercial pedigree Holstein cows. A total of 140 of 200 commercial pedigree Holstein cows were enrolled in one dairy herd in Somerset, UK, over 52 wk in 2021 to 2022. The herd used 4 automatic milking machines with in-line progesterone measurement capability to determine commencement of luteal activity and time to first estrus. Cows were followed until at least 60 d postpartum, and milk progesterone was measured daily starting from 10 DIM. Body condition scoring and ultrasound measurements of back fat depth and longissimus dorsi muscle diameter were performed on cows twice, within 7 d of both calving and 60 DIM. Other explanatory variables assessed included parity, 60-d and 305-d milk yield, and subclinical ketosis (β-hydroxybutryate ≥1.2 mmol/L). Occurrence of clinical disease <60 DIM was forced into all models as a binary variable. Data were analyzed using multivariable Cox proportionate survival analyses. Muscle loss was associated with commencement of luteal activity and time to first estrus. A reduction in muscle diameter by 1.5 to 5 mm was associated with the shortest time to the start of luteal activity and first estrus. A reduction in muscle diameter >8 mm was associated with the longest times to luteal activity and first estrus. In addition to being affected by muscle loss, commencement of luteal activity was delayed by subclinical ketosis, clinical disease, and failure to gain body condition to 60 DIM. Cows that had a BCS loss of 0.25 or more between calving and 60 DIM were at least 52 ± 22% less likely to have commenced luteal activity compared with those that gained BCS. Interestingly, cows that had no change in body condition score commenced luteal activity later than those that gained body condition score. Muscle loss was associated with time to first estrus irrespective of clinical disease status. Cows that lost >8 mm of muscle diameter showed estrus behavior later than cows that lost 1.5 to 5 mm. In conclusion, our findings indicate that extensive muscle loss postpartum was associated with a delayed start to luteal activity and first estrus, irrespective of body condition change, clinical disease, and subclinical ketosis. Marginal muscle loss and a gain in body condition, however, were associated with an earlier start to luteal activity and first estrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ryder
- Garston Veterinary Group, Garston House, Portway, Frome, BA11 1PZ, UK
| | - R F Smith
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - J M Neary
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, CH64 7TE, UK.
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Kim IH, Jeong JK, Kim UH. Impact of postpartum time period associated body condition score on reproductive performance in dairy cows. Theriogenology 2023; 209:107-114. [PMID: 37379586 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to identify the time period at which the body condition score (BCS) most critically affects the reproductive performance after calving in dairy cows. Data were collected from 4865 lactation records (1821 from primiparous and 3044 from multiparous cows) on 28 dairy farms, including the BCS (at calving, and month 1 and the first artificial insemination [AI] after calving), the presence of peri- or postpartum disorders, reproductive data, and the weather. The data on the extent of BCS loss from calving to the first AI was divided into two periods, namely, between calving and month 1 after calving (period 1), and between month 1 and the first AI after calving (period 2). Cows with BCS of 3.0, 3.25 and ≥ 3.5 at the first AI after calving were more likely (P < 0.05-0.01) to be pregnant at 30 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.36, 1.64, and 1.90) and 45 (OR: 1.39, 1.75, and 1.99) days post-AI and more likely (P < 0.05-0.01) to be pregnant within 180 days after calving (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.18, 1.43, and 1.58) than cows with BCS of ≤2.75. In addition, cows who suffered a BCS loss of ≥0.5 units during period 1 tended to be less likely (HR: 0.79, P < 0.1) to be pregnant within 180 days after calving than cows without a BCS loss. Cows with BCS of 3.0, 3.25, and ≥3.5 at calving were less likely (P < 0.1-0.05) to lose their pregnancy (OR: 0.37, 0.33, and 0.16) than cows with BCS of ≤2.75. These results indicate that the linearly higher BCS (3.0, 3.25, and ≥3.5) at the first AI is positively associated with the probability of pregnancy per AI after the first AI and the likelihood of pregnancy within 180 days after calving, whereas a higher BCS loss of ≥0.5 units during period 1 was adversely associated with the likelihood of pregnancy within 180 days after calving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ill-Hwa Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Kwan Jeong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ui-Hyung Kim
- Hanwoo Research Institute, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Pyeongchang, 25340, Republic of Korea.
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8
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Venjakob PL, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S. Associations between days in the close-up group and milk production, transition cow diseases, reproductive performance, culling, and behavior around calving of Holstein dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:7056-7075. [PMID: 37164849 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The objective of experiment I was to evaluate the association between days in the close-up group (DINCU) and milk production, early lactation diseases, reproductive performance, and culling. In experiment II behavioral changes associated with DINCU were evaluated using a neck-mounted sensor (Smarttag neck, Nedap Livestock Management, Groenlo, the Netherlands). Cow-lactations of 28,813 animals from 14,155 individual cows of 2 farms in northern Germany and western Slovakia, calving between January 2015 and December 2020, were included in the study. After exclusion of cows with a gestation length <262 and >292 d and cows with >42 DINCU data from 8,794 and 19,598 nulliparous and parous cows, respectively, were available for final statistical analyses. To analyze the association between DINCU and second test-d 305-d mature-equivalent milk projection, linear mixed models were calculated. Binary data (i.e., clinical hypocalcemia, hyperketonemia, retained placenta [RP], acute puerperal metritis [APM], mastitis, left displaced abomasum [LDA], first service pregnancy risk) were analyzed using logistic regression models. To analyze the association between DINCU and culling or death during the first 300 DIM Cox proportional hazards were used. To analyze the association between DINCU and behavior 7 d before to 7 d after calving (i.e., activity, inactivity, eating, ruminating time), linear mixed models were calculated. Nulliparous cows with a short (<10 DINCU) and a long stay (>30 DINCU) in the close-up group had a lower milk production an increased risk for hyperketonemia, RP, and APM compared with nulliparous cows with DINCU between 21 to 28 d. Parous cows with a short (<10 DINCU) and a long stay (>30 DINCU) in the close-up group had a lower milk production, an increased risk for RP and mastitis, a reduced first service pregnancy risk, and an increased culling risk, compared with parous cows with DINCU between 21 to 28 d. Furthermore, the risk for clinical hypocalcemia and LDA was increased in parous cows with >30 DINCU compared with parous cows with <30 DINCU. The risk for APM was increased in parous cows with <10 DINCU compared with parous cows with >10 DINCU. In nulliparous cows no association was found between DINCU and the risk for left displaced abomasum and mastitis. In experiment II, cows with 7 and 35 DINCU had an impaired behavior around calving compared with cows with 14, 21, and 28 DINCU. During the last 7 d before parturition, these cows were more inactive and had a reduced eating and ruminating time. After calving, cows with 7 DINCU spent less time eating. In conclusion, cows with <10 DINCU and cows with >30 DINCU had a lower milk production, a higher risk to incur diseases and an impaired behavior, especially before calving.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Venjakob
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany; Clinic for Ruminants, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen, Frankfurter Str. 104, 35392 Gießen, Germany.
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Königsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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9
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McKay C, Viora L, Denholm K, Cook J, Belandria RV. Risk factors for ultrasound-diagnosed endometritis and its impact on fertility in Scottish dairy cattle herds. Vet Rec 2023; 193:e3168. [PMID: 37308310 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for and the impact of ultrasound-diagnosed endometritis (UDE) on lactating dairy cows' reproductive performance. METHODS Data were analysed from 1123 Holstein and Holstein-Friesian cows from two Scottish dairy farms. A reproductive ultrasound examination was conducted on two occasions, at 43 ± 3 and 50 ± 3 days in milk (DIM), to screen for hyperechoic fluid in the uterus. Statistical analyses were performed using multivariable logistic regression modelling and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS The overall incidence of UDE was 8.8% (99/1123). Risk factors for UDE included calving during autumn/winter seasons, increased parity and the presence of two or more diseases in the first 50 ± 3 days postpartum. The presence of UDE was associated with a reduced odds of pregnancy after all artificial inseminations up to 150 DIM. LIMITATIONS The retrospective design of this study led to some inherent limitations with the quality and quantity of data collected. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study indicate which risk factors should be monitored in postpartum dairy cows to limit the impact of UDE on future reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara McKay
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lorenzo Viora
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Katharine Denholm
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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10
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Hernandez-Gotelli C, Manríquez D, Azocar J, De Vries A, Pinedo PJ. Factors associated with the time and magnitude of the nadir body condition score in early lactation and its subsequent effects on fertility of Holstein cows. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad119. [PMID: 37085950 PMCID: PMC10184692 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify variables associated with the time and magnitude of nadir BCS (nBCS) during early lactation and to characterize the effects of these two measurements on the subsequent pregnancy at first artificial insemination (P/AI1) and pregnancy loss of Holstein cows. A retrospective observational study was completed using data collected from 12,042 lactations in 7,626 Holstein cows calving between April 2019 and January 2022 in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado, USA. Scores generated by an automated BCS camera system at dry-off (BCSdry), calving (BCS1), nadir (nBCS; defined as the lowest daily BCS from calving to 100 DIM), and 21 d post nadir were selected for the analyses and subsequently categorized into quartiles (Q1 = lower nBCS). Changes in BCS were calculated from dry-off to calving (multiparous cows); from calving to nadir; and from nadir to 21 d post nadir and assigned into quartile categories considering Q1 as the 25% of cows with greater loss (pre nadir) or smaller gain (post nadir) of BCS. Data were examined using logistic regression, ANOVA, and time to event analyses. Initial univariable models were followed by multivariable models that considered parity category, calving season, BCS1, and average milk yield up to 30 DIM (M30) as covariables. Sick cows and high producing cows had increased DIM at nadir, while lower BCSdry, greater M30, and occurrence of disease were associated with lower nBCS. Cows that conceived at AI1 had their nBCS earlier (45.1 ± 0.32 d) than cows that remained open after first AI (46.4 ± 0.35 d). On the contrary, DIM at nBCS did not differ by pregnancy loss status. The logistic regression analyses reported smaller odds of P/AI1 in cows in the lower nBCS categories. Likewise, cows with larger loss in BCS between calving and nadir had smaller odds of P/AI1. Although cows that lost their pregnancy had lower nBCS, this association was not consistent across the analyses. The time to and magnitude of nBCS, together with the ∆BCS from calving to nadir could be useful measures to evaluate the transition and early lactation status of dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- École Nationale de Vétérinaire de Toulouse, CIRAD, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Albert De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Pablo J Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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11
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Pinedo PJ, Manríquez D, Azocar J, De Vries A. Associations of automated body condition scores at dry-off and through early lactation with milk yield of Holstein cows. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad387. [PMID: 37978987 PMCID: PMC10750816 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze the associations of body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (∆BCS) during the dry period and the first 100 d of lactation with daily milk yield. Examining the involvement of health status in the associations between BCS and milk yield was a secondary objective of this research. Data included 12,042 lactations in 7,626 Holstein cows calving between April 2019 and January 2022 in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado, USA. BCSs were generated daily by an automated BCS camera system located at the exit of the milking parlor. The assessment points selected for this study were dry-off (BCSdry), calving (BCS1), 7 DIM (BCS7), 14 DIM (BCS14), 21 DIM (BCS21), and nadir (nBCS; defined as the lowest daily BCS from calving to 100 DIM). Subsequently, these BCS were categorized considering quartiles (Q1 = 25% lowest BCS; Q4 = 25% greatest BCS), separately for primiparous and multiparous cows. Changes in BCS were calculated from dry-off to calving (multiparous); and from calving to 7 DIM, 14 DIM, 21 DIM, and nadir and assigned into quartile categories considering Q1 as the 25% of cows with the greatest decrease of BCS. Lactations were classified based on the number of health events before nadir as healthy, affected by one event, or having multiple events. Data were examined in primiparous and multiparous cows separately using ANOVA. The least square means for daily milk at 60 DIM and 305 DIM were calculated by category of BCS and ∆BCS at multiple time points and time periods. Subsequently, lactation curves were created by BCS and ∆BCS categories and by health status. Multivariable models included calving season and BCS1 as covariables. The largest differences in milk yield among categories of BCS and ∆BCS were identified for BCS originated at nadir and for the ∆BCS between calving and nadir. The differences in average daily milk yield between cows in the lowest and the greatest nBCS category (Q1 vs. Q4) were 3.3 kg/d (60 DIM) and 3.4 kg/d (305 DIM) for primiparous cows and 2.4 kg/d (60 DIM) and 2.1 kg/d (305 DIM) for multiparous cows. During the period from calving to nadir, primiparous cows in Q1 (greatest decrease of BCS) produced 4.3 kg/d (60 DIM) and 3.8 kg/d (305 DIM) more than cows in Q4. For multiparous cows, the differences were 3.0 kg/d (60 DIM) and 1.9 kg/d (305 DIM) in favor of Q1 cows. Overall, the associations between BCS and ∆BCS categories and milk yield were not consistent across time and they depended on the parity category. Nonetheless, as the assessment of BCS and ∆BCS approached the nadir, the association between greater milk yield and lower BCS or greater reduction in BCS became more evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo J Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Diego Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- AgNext, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | | | - Albert De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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12
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Pinedo PJ, Manríquez D, Ciarletta C, Azocar J, De Vries A. Association between body condition score fluctuations and pregnancy loss in Holstein cows. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:skac266. [PMID: 35973819 PMCID: PMC9584153 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize the associations between body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (∆BCS), determined by an automated camera system during early lactation and close to artificial insemination (AI), and the subsequent pregnancy loss (PL) in Holstein cows. A secondary objective was to determine the impact of disease on PL, considering multiple time periods relative to AI. Data from 9,430 lactations in 6,884 Holstein cows in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado, USA were included in this retrospective observational study. Cows were subject to first AI at about 80 DIM (primiparous) and 60 DIM (multiparous), following a double OvSynch protocol. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed via transrectal ultrasonography on day 32 ± 3 after AI and reconfirmed on day 80 ± 3 after AI. Cameras mounted on the sorting gate at each exit (n = 2) of the milking parlor generated BCS on a five-point scale with 0.1 increments. The BCS at calving (BCS1), 21 DIM (BCS21), 56 DIM (BCS56), AI resulting in pregnancy (BCSAI), and 90 d post AI (BCSAI90) were selected for the analyses and subsequently categorized as low (≤ lower quartile), moderate (interquartile range), and high (≥ upper quartile). Changes in BCS were calculated by periods of interest as change from calving to 21 DIM; change from calving to 56 DIM; change from 56 DIM to AI; and change from AI to 90 d post AI and assigned into categories to facilitate the analysis. Data were examined using logistic regression, considering parity category, season at calving and AI, DIM at AI, milk yield up to 60 DIM, and occurrence of disease as covariables. The logistic regression analyses indicated that the odds of PL were greater in cows in the low BCS category relative to cows in the high BCS category at 56 DIM (OR 95% CI = 1.41 [1.12-1.79]), AI (1.31 [1.05-1.65]), and 90 d post AI (1.38 [1.10-1.74]). Likewise, cows with large loss in BCS between calving and 21 DIM (1.46 [1.10-1.94]) and loss in BCS between AI and 90 d post AI (1.44 [1.15-1.81]) had greater odds of PL compared with cows with no loss of BCS within the same period. Occurrence of disease at all the time periods considered in the analysis had a consistent detrimental impact on maintenance of the pregnancy, supporting the concept that pre and postconceptional disease affects embryonic survival. Overall, low BCS, more pronounced reductions in BCS occurring closer to AI, and occurrence of disease resulted in greater PL in this Holstein population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo J Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Diego Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Cassandra Ciarletta
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | | | - Albert De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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13
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Vatnikov Y, Rudenko A, Gnezdilova L, Sotnikova E, Byakhova V, Piven E, Kulikov E, Petrov A, Drukovskiy S, Petrukhina O. Clinical and diagnostic characteristics of the development of hepatocardial syndrome in black and white cows in the early lactation period. Vet World 2022; 15:2259-2268. [PMID: 36341078 PMCID: PMC9631371 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.2259-2268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: It is known that during the early postpartum and lactation periods in dairy cows, metabolic disorders develop, that is, ketosis, which can lead to secondary damage to internal organs. Therefore, it is important to address the issues of changing the lactating cows’ clinical, laboratory, and physiological parameters regarding the development of hepatocardial syndrome. This study aimed to provide clinical and diagnostic justification for developing hepatocardial syndrome in highly productive dairy cows. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 20 black and white cows in the early postpartum period (7–10 days after birth), with a milk production level of >4500 kg of milk during the previous lactation period, a positive result in the formol colloid sedimentary test, the presence of deafness and splitting of heart sounds, changes in the size, or increased pain sensitivity of the percussion field of the liver. Clinically healthy dairy cows in the early postpartum period were used as controls (n = 24). Clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and biochemical parameters were also evaluated. Results: Dairy cows with hepatocardial syndrome developed arterial hypertension and sinus tachycardia, which led to a significant decrease in PQ and QT intervals at ECG. A significant increase in the diastolic size of the interventricular septum, systolic size of the free wall of the left ventricle, and diastolic and systolic sizes of the left ventricle and a significant decrease in the shortening fraction of the left ventricular myocardium were observed in the cows due to the development of hepatocardial syndrome. The affected cows demonstrated a significant increase in serum activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, alkaline phosphatase, troponin, malondialdehyde, diene conjugates, and ceruloplasmin and a decrease in glucose concentration. In addition, they demonstrated decreased activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. Conclusion: Hepatocardial syndrome in dairy cows occurs due to ketosis, characterized by arterial hypertension, sinus tachycardia, a moderate decrease in myocardial contractility, oxidative stress, and cytolysis of cardiomyocytes and hepatocytes. Therefore, the control and prevention of the development of hepatocardial syndrome will make it possible to maintain the productive health and longevity of dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yury Vatnikov
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Rudenko
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Food Production, Moscow, Russia
| | - Larisa Gnezdilova
- Department of Diseases, Diagnostics, Therapy, Obstetrics and Reproduction of Animals, Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology - MVA Named after K.I. Skryabin, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Sotnikova
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Varvara Byakhova
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Piven
- Department of Public Health, Healthcare, and Hygiene, Institute of Medicine, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeny Kulikov
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Aleksandr Petrov
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Stanislav Drukovskiy
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Olesya Petrukhina
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Agrarian and Technological Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia
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Effect of Plant Bioactive Compounds Supplemented in Transition Dairy Cows on the Metabolic and Inflammatory Status. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27186092. [PMID: 36144832 PMCID: PMC9504483 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27186092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: This study evaluated the effects of a plant bioactive (Phyto Ax’Cell, Phytosynthese, Mozac, France) on the inflammatory status and health of dairy cows during calving. (2) Methods: 46 Holstein crossbred cows were randomized into a control group (CON, n = 23) and the Phyto Ax’Cell group (PAC, n = 23). PAC received Phyto Ax’Cell at 25 g/cow/day, from 15 days prepartum to 7 days postpartum. Blood analyses were performed weekly from D-7 to D14 to evaluate the energy metabolism and inflammatory status; rectal temperature was measured daily within 14 days from calving day (D0). (3) Results: PAC showed lower serum haptoglobin at D7 (0.55 vs. 0.79 mg/mL; p < 0.05) and D14 (0.44 vs. 0.66 mg/mL; p < 0.05). CON had a higher number of circulating white blood cells and granulocytes on D7 (p < 0.05). Fewer cows from PAC showed hyperthermia (≥39 °C) during the first 2 weeks postpartum (−7%, p < 0.05). Energy metabolism, which was represented by the NEFA/cholesterol ratio, improved (0.21 vs. 0.36 at D0, p < 0.1; 0.19 and 0.15 vs. 0.36 and 0.32, respectively, at D+7 and D+14, p < 0.05) under the plant bioactive supplementation. (4) Conclusions: The results suggest that the anti-inflammatory plant bioactive compound with Brazilian green propolis administered during calving had a beneficial effect on the energy and inflammatory status of dairy cows.
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15
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Stevenson JS, Atanasov B. Changes in body condition score from calving to first insemination and milk yield, pregnancy per AI, and pregnancy loss in lactating dairy cows: A meta-analysis. Theriogenology 2022; 193:93-102. [PMID: 36156429 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
We determined the association of body condition score (BCS) at calving, at first postpartum artificial insemination (AI), and change in BCS between calving and first AI on pregnancy per AI (P/AI) at 30-45 d, pregnancy loss to 60-85 d, and milk yield in lactating dairy cows. Outcome data were included from 15 studies and 47 herd-year combinations. Additional variables included season of AI, herd, days in milk at first AI, parity, and of mean daily milk yield within 2 wk of first AI. The BCS scale employed was a standard 1-5 scale (1 = severe under conditioning or emaciated and 5 = severe over conditioning) with 0.25 cut points. Presynchronization treatments that included PGF2α and GnRH increased (P < 0.05) the proportion of cows with luteal function before AI compared with PGF2α alone. Compared with no presynchronization treatment those that included PGF2α or PGF2α and GnRH increased (P < 0.05) first P/AI. Cows having BCS ≥2.75 at AI had greater (P < 0.01) first P/AI than cows with BCS <2.75. As BCS at first AI increased, P/AI increased in a linear (P = 0.04) fashion and was greater in cows expressing estrus when BCS at AI was <2.50. Presynchronization had no association with P/AI for cows with BCS at calving <3.00 compared with those with BCS ≥3.00. In contrast, multiparous cows tended (P = 0.06) to have greater P/AI when they calved with BCS ≥3.00 compared with <3.00. Increasing BCS at AI was associated with decreased (P = 0.01) pregnancy loss. Pregnancy per AI did not differ among cows according to the magnitude of prebreeding BCS loss, but more multiparous cows losing more than 0.5 units of BCS tended to have greater pregnancy losses in second-parity cows (P = 0.09) and in cows of third or greater (P < 0.001) parity. Daily milk yields at first AI differed among parities as expected, but a parity by BCS at calving interaction was detected (P = 0.008). Daily milk yield at first AI decreased (P < 0.001) linearly as BCS at AI increased, with an exacerbated greater negative effect during summer. More prebreeding loss in BCS was associated with more (P < 0.05) milk yield in first- and second-parity cows. We concluded that greater BCS at first AI was associated with improved P/AI, but magnitude of prebreeding BCS loss was not associated with P/AI. In contrast, more pregnancy loss was associated with more prebreeding BCS loss in multiparous cows. Cow having lesser BCS at AI and greater prebreeding loss in BCS produced more milk than their herd mates of greater BCS and lesser prebreeding loss in BCS, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey S Stevenson
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, 66506-0201, USA.
| | - Branko Atanasov
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
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16
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Fricke P, Wiltbank M, Pursley J. Mini-Review: The high fertility cycle. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 4:127-131. [PMID: 36974216 PMCID: PMC10039251 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2022-0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The development of fertility programs and their adoption by the dairy industry over the past decade is a major driving factor underlying the dramatic increase in reproductive performance in lactating dairy cows during the past 20 years. Another major driving factor underlying this increase in reproductive performance is what we describe in this minireview as the "high fertility cycle." We now know that reproductive performance and the incidence of certain periparturient health events are interrelated. The high fertility cycle describes the relationship between body condition score (BCS) change during the periparturient period and postpartum health events and subsequent reproductive performance in which lactating dairy cows that establish pregnancy by 130 d in milk have shorter calving intervals and thereby gain less BCS during the current lactation and dry off and calve at a lower BCS (2.75 to 3.0) than cows with a longer lactation. After calving, these cows undergo less BCS loss, experience fewer health issues, have greater fertility at first insemination, and have reduced early pregnancy losses after establishment of pregnancy and thereby become pregnant before 130 d in milk. This minireview overviews these relationships and highlights the key concepts underlying the high fertility cycle. Future randomized, controlled experiments are needed to causally link these relationships between BCS change and fertility in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P.M. Fricke
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
- Corresponding author
| | - M.C. Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - J.R. Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824
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17
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Consequences of extending the voluntary waiting period for insemination on reproductive performance in dairy cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 244:107046. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Kerwin AL, Burhans WS, Mann S, Tetreault M, Nydam DV, Overton TR. Transition cow nutrition and management strategies of dairy herds in the northeastern United States: Part I-Herd description and performance characteristics. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:5327-5348. [PMID: 35469639 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to describe management and herd characteristics of the transition period on freestall dairy herds in the northeastern United States using an on-farm survey and prospective cohort design. Enrolled herds (n = 72) had a median of 900 milking cows (range: 345-2,900) and a rolling herd average of 12,674 kg (standard deviation ± 1,220 kg), and 87.2% (n = 82/94) of fresh pens were milked at least 3×/d. The prevalence of herds with ≥15% of sampled cows with elevated concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids prepartum (≥0.27 mmol/L, 2-14 d before parturition) and postpartum [primiparous: ≥0.60 mmol/L, multiparous: ≥0.70 mmol/L, 3-14 d in milk (DIM)], β-hydroxybutyrate postpartum (≥1.2 mmol/L, 3-14 DIM), and haptoglobin postpartum (≥1 g/L, 0-12 DIM) was 51%, 51%, 51%, and 57%, respectively. In most herds, cows were moved to a calving pen when showing signs of labor (73.6%; n = 53/72) instead of 0 to 3 d before expected calving (26.4%, n = 19/72). Cows remained in the calving or maternity pen for a median (range) time of 2 (0-24) h after parturition before moving to the next pen. Primiparous cows remained in the first pen moved to after parturition for a longer period than multiparous cows [median (range) days: 12 (1.5-25) vs. 6 (1.5-22)]. Approximately 20% of herds had routine vaccinations administered in the maternity or calving pen, first pen after parturition, or both. Almost all herds (n = 69/72) performed fresh cow health checks; however, only 53% (n = 38/72) locked up all fresh cows daily. More herds housed primiparous and multiparous cows in separate pens during the far-off dry (65.3%; n = 47/72) and high-lactation (81.9%; n = 59/72) periods compared with the close-up dry (31.9%; n = 23/72) and fresh periods (27.8%; n = 20/72). At least half of the pens observed during the far-off dry, close-up dry, and fresh periods had a stocking density <100%. Approximately one-third of pens observed during the far-off dry period had feed pushed up ≤4×/d compared with approximately 15 to 20% of pens observed during the close-up dry, fresh, and high-lactation periods. More than half of the total mixed ration samples acquired from the far-off and close-up dry period visits had greater than the recommended proportion of particles in the 19-mm screen of the Penn State Particle Separator. The results of this observational study illustrated the range of management practices used in freestall herds in this region and lay the groundwork for future hypothesis-driven studies using this sampled population.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Kerwin
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | | | - S Mann
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | | | - D V Nydam
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - T R Overton
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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19
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Roth Z, Shiff O, Lavon Y, Kalo D, Wolfenson D. Progesterone supplementation to improve fertility of selected subgroups of lactating cows during the summer and fall. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:943-946. [PMID: 35582955 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
One major cause of low fertility of cows in the summer is progesterone deficiency. We found that insertion of a controlled intravaginal drug-releasing (CIDR) device containing progesterone after artificial insemination (AI) increases pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in cows with uterine disease and low body condition score after calving. Here we treated only these two subgroups, during the summer and autumn. Control (n = 191 AI) and treatment (n = 230 AI) cows were inseminated at estrus and the treated group received a CIDR device on day 5 post-AI, for 14 days. Overall analysis of data during the summer and autumn indicated no significant differences between treatment and control groups. Analysis of the summer data only indicated a significant effect of treatment: P/AI was higher in CIDR-treated vs. control groups (34.2 vs. 19.3%; P < 0.038). Results indicated a 15% increase in P/AI during the summer for CIDR-treated cows in subgroups that had responded positively to the progesterone treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Roth
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Omri Shiff
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yaniv Lavon
- Israel Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea 38900, Israel
| | - Dorit Kalo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - David Wolfenson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, the Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
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20
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Fricke PM, Wiltbank MC. Symposium review: The implications of spontaneous versus synchronized ovulations on the reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:4679-4689. [PMID: 35307178 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Lactating dairy cows are classified as spontaneous ovulators, in which establishment of pregnancy depends on the accuracy of detection of behavioral estrus for correct timing of artificial insemination (AI). Development of the Ovsynch protocol, a hormonal protocol that synchronizes ovarian function, thereby allowing for timed AI (TAI) without the need to detect estrus, provided a management tool for increasing AI service rates but not pregnancies per AI (P/AI). A review of 7 randomized, controlled experiments that compared P/AI of cows inseminated after a detected estrus to that of cows receiving TAI after submission to Presynch-Ovsynch or Double-Ovsynch protocols supports that the newest programs for TAI yield more P/AI than cows inseminated after a detected estrus. The physiologic and endocrine mechanisms that explain how fertility programs increase P/AI are a culmination of over 20 yr of research aimed at increasing reproductive performance in lactating dairy cows. We illustrate the dramatic change in reproductive performance of US dairy cows over time by comparing the phenotypic trend in days open with the genetic trend in daughter pregnancy rate and the phenotypic trend in cow conception rate. Whereas days open increased from 1955 to 2000, days open from 2000 to 2010 dramatically decreased without a concurrent increase in the genetic trend for daughter pregnancy rate. By contrast, the dramatic decrease in days open over the past 20 yr is associated with a dramatic increase in the phenotypic trend in cow conception rate. Although many management factors affect P/AI, adoption and implementation of TAI programs that directly increase P/AI is an important component of the dramatic increase in reproductive performance in lactating dairy cows in the United States over the past 20 yr.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Fricke
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706.
| | - M C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
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21
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Pinedo P, Manríquez D, Azocar J, Klug BR, De Vries A. Dynamics of automatically generated body condition scores during early lactation and pregnancy at first artificial insemination of Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:4547-4564. [PMID: 35181142 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize the association between body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (ΔBCS), determined by an automated camera system at multiple time points, and the subsequent pregnancy per first artificial insemination (P/AI1) of Holstein cows. A retrospective observational study was completed using data collected from 11,393 lactations in 7,928 Holstein cows calving between April 2019 and March 2021 in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado. Cows were classified as primiparous or multiparous. Scores generated by BCS cameras at dry-off, calving, 21 days in milk (DIM), 56 DIM, and first artificial insemination were selected for the analyses and subsequently categorized as low (≤lower quartile), moderate (interquartile range), and high (≥upper quartile). Changes in BCS were calculated by periods of interest as change from dry-off to calving (multiparous cows); change from calving to 21 DIM; change from calving to 56 DIM; and change from calving to first artificial insemination and assigned into categories as large loss of BCS (top 25% of cows losing BCS); moderate loss (bottom 75% of cows losing BCS); no change (ΔBCS = 0); or gain of BCS (ΔBCS > 0). Data were examined in primiparous and multiparous cows separately using logistic regression and time-to-event analyses. Initial univariable models were followed by multivariable models that considered calving season, occurrence of disease, and milk yield up to 60 DIM as covariables. The logistic regression analyses indicated that in both parity groups the associations between BCS category and P/AI1 were more evident at 21 DIM, 56 DIM, and first artificial insemination, with lower odds of P/AI1 in cows in the low BCS category. Likewise, cows with large loss in BCS between calving and 21 DIM, calving and 56 DIM, and calving and first artificial insemination had lower odds of P/AI1 compared with other categories of ΔBCS within the same period of interest. Similarly, survival analyses evidenced that cows in the low BCS category required more time to get pregnant. In agreement, differences in the dynamics of the average daily BCS during the first 90 DIM were evident when cows were grouped by first AI outcome (pregnant vs. nonpregnant) and by their time to pregnancy category (<90 DIM; 91-150 DIM; or >150 DIM), with cows with reduced fertility showing lower BCS up to 90 DIM. Overall, low BCS and more pronounced reductions in BCS occurring closer to first artificial insemination resulted in lower odds of pregnancy per artificial insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523.
| | - D Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523
| | - J Azocar
- DeLaval Inc., Bannockburn, IL 60015
| | - B R Klug
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523
| | - A De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
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22
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Daros RR, Weary DM, von Keyserlingk MA. Invited review: Risk factors for transition period disease in intensive grazing and housed dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:4734-4748. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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23
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Mann S. Symposium review: The role of adipose tissue in transition dairy cows: Current knowledge and future opportunities. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:3687-3701. [PMID: 34998568 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue (AT) is a central reservoir of energy stored in the form of lipids. In addition, AT has been recognized as an immunologically and endocrinologically active tissue of dairy cattle. The recent literature on AT biology of transition dairy cows has often focused on the possible negative effects that originate from excessive body fat. However, the highly efficient energy-storage capability of this tissue is also vital to the adaptability of dairy cattle to the change in nutrient availability, and to support lactation and reproduction. An excessive degree of mobilization of this tissue, however, is associated with high circulating fatty acid concentrations, and this may have direct and indirect negative effects on reproductive health, productivity, and disease risk. Furthermore, rapid lipolysis may be associated with postpartum inflammation. Research on the role of AT is complicated by the greater difficulty of accessing and measuring visceral AT compared with subcutaneous AT. The objective of this review is to provide a transition cow-centric summary of AT biology with a focus on reviewing methods of measuring AT mass as well as to describe the importance for production, health, and reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mann
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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24
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Major Nutritional Metabolic Alterations Influencing the Reproductive System of Postpartum Dairy Cows. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12010060. [PMID: 35050182 PMCID: PMC8781654 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12010060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Early successful conception of postpartum dairy cows is crucial in determining the optimum reproductive efficiency and profitability in modern dairy farming. Due to the inherent high production potential of modern dairy cows, the extra stress burden of peri-parturient events, and associated endocrine and metabolic changes causes negative energy balance (NEBAL) in postpartum cows. The occurrence of NEBAL is associated with excessive fat mobilization in the form of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). The phenomenon of NEFA mobilization furthers with occurrence of ketosis and fatty liver in postpartum dairy cows. High NEFAs and ketones are negatively associated with health and reproductive processes. An additional burden of hypocalcemia, ruminal acidosis, and high protein metabolism in postpartum cows presents further consequences for health and reproductive performance of postpartum dairy cows. This review intends to comprehend these major nutritional metabolic alterations, their mechanisms of influence on the reproduction process, and relevant mitigation strategies.
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25
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Stevenson J. Late-gestation ear-surface temperatures and subsequent postpartum health, activity, milk yield, and reproductive performance of dairy cows. Theriogenology 2022; 181:170-179. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Oxidative Stress in Dairy Cows: Insights into the Mechanistic Mode of Actions and Mitigating Strategies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10121918. [PMID: 34943022 PMCID: PMC8750585 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This review examines several molecular mechanisms underpinning oxidative stress in ruminants and their effects on blood and milk oxidative traits. We also investigate strategies to alleviate or repair oxidative damages by improving animal immune functions using novel feed additives. Microbial pathogenic cells, feeding management, and body condition score were some of the studied factors, inducing oxidative stress in ruminants. The predominance of Streptococcus spp. (24.22%), Acinetobacter spp. (21.37%), Romboutsia spp. (4.99%), Turicibacter spp., (2.64%), Stenotrophomonas spp. (2.33%), and Enterococcus spp. (1.86%) was found in the microbiome of mastitis cows with a decrease of d-mannose and increase of xanthine:guanine ratio when Streptococcus increased. Diversity of energy sources favoring the growth of Fusobacterium make it a keystone taxon contributing to metritis. Ruminal volatile fatty acids rose with high-concentrate diets that decreased the ruminal pH, causing a lysis of rumen microbes and release of endotoxins. Moreover, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities increased in high concentrate cows accompanied by a reduction of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activity. In addition, albumin and paraoxonase concentrations were inversely related to oxidative stress and contributed to the protection of low-density and high-density lipoproteins against lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, and lactoperoxidase. High concentrate diets increased the expression of MAPK pro-inflammatory genes and decreased the expression of antioxidant genes and proteins in mammary epithelial tissues. The expression levels of NrF2, NQO1, MT1E, UGT1A1, MGST3, and MT1A were downregulated, whereas NF-kB was upregulated with a high-grain or high concentrate diet. Amino-acids, vitamins, trace elements, and plant extracts have shown promising results through enhancing immune functions and repairing damaged cells exposed to oxidative stress. Further studies comparing the long-term effect of synthetic feed additives and natural plant additives on animal health and physiology remain to be investigated.
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27
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Evaluation of Statistical Process Control Techniques in Monitoring Weekly Body Condition Scores as an Early Warning System for Predicting Subclinical Ketosis in Dry Cows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113224. [PMID: 34827954 PMCID: PMC8614522 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The management of body condition scores of dairy cows during the dry period affects postpartum health. It is therefore important to monitor the body condition scores so as to predict the occurrence of postpartum diseases. In this study, statistical process control technology was used to monitor body condition scores and to explore its effects on nutritional strategies and the development of postpartum subclinical ketosis. The results showed that the statistical process control technology was not a good tool for the diagnosis of postpartum subclinical ketosis, but an appropriate tool for the guidance of nutritional strategies. Abstract The management of body condition score (BCS) during the dry period is associated with the postpartum health outcomes of dairy cows. However, the difference between the actual BCS and the fixed ideal value is not able to accurately predict the occurrence of postpartum diseases. This study aimed to use statistical process control (SPC) technology to monitor the BCS of dry cows, to evaluate the effect of control charts on nutritional strategies, and to explore the utility of SPC in predicting the incidence of postpartum subclinical ketosis (SCK). The BCS and SCK data of 286 cows from the dry off period to 60 days postpartum were collected to set up the early warning function. Three control charts, including a control chart for the average BCS of the herds, for the BCS of each dry cow, and for individual BCS, were established. The early warning signs for postpartum SCK development were: (1) an individual BCS more than 3.5 that remained unchanged for six weeks; (2) a capability index (CPK), an SPC tool, greater than −0.52. Using these parameters, the early warning signs of SCK development were verified in 429 dry cows. The results showed that the accuracy of early warning signal was 0.64 and the precision was 0.26. The control chart showed that the average BCS of dry cows was consistently higher than the expected upper limit of BCS during the experimental period, and that the addition of new cows to the herds increased the average BCS. In summary, the application of SPC technology to monitor the BCS of dry cows was not a good tool for the prediction of postpartum SCK occurrence but was an appropriate tool for guiding positive nutrition strategies.
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28
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Pérez-Báez J, Risco CA, Chebel RC, Gomes GC, Greco LF, Tao S, Toledo IM, do Amaral BC, Zenobi MG, Martinez N, Dahl GE, Hernández JA, Prim JG, Santos JEP, Galvão KN. Investigating the Use of Dry Matter Intake and Energy Balance Prepartum as Predictors of Digestive Disorders Postpartum. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:645252. [PMID: 34604365 PMCID: PMC8481776 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.645252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
One objective was to evaluate the association of dry matter intake as a percentage of body weight (DMI%BW) and energy balance (EB) prepartum and postpartum, and energy-corrected milk (ECM) postpatum with digestive disorders postpartum. For this, ANOVA was used, and DMI%BW, EB, and ECM were the outcome variables, and left displaced abomasum (LDA), indigestion, and other digestive disorders (ODDZ) were the explanatory variables. The main objective was to evaluate prepartum DMI%BW and EB as predictors of digestive disorders. For this, logistic regression was used, and LDA, indigestion, and ODDZ were the outcome variables and DMI%BW and EB were the explanatory variables. Data from 689 cows from 11 experiments were compiled. Left displaced abomasum was not associated with prepartum DMI%BW or EB. Postpartum data were normalized to the day of the event (day 0). Cows that developed LDA had lesser postpartum DMI%BW on days −24, −23, −12, −7 to 0 and from days 1 to 8, 10 to 12, and 14 and 16, lesser postpartum EB from days −7 to −5, −3 to 0, and 12, and lesser postpartum energy-corrected milk on days −19, −2, −1, 0, 7, 9, 10, 15, and 17 relative to diagnosis than cows without LDA. Cows that developed indigestion had lesser prepartum DMI%BW and EB than cows without indigestion, and lesser postpartum DMI%BW on days −24, −1, 0, 1, and 2, and greater DMI%BW on day 26, lesser ECM on days −24, −2, −1, 0, 1, and 2 relative to diagnosis. Postpartum EB was not associated with indigestion postpartum. Cows that developed ODDZ had lesser prepartum DMI%BW on day −8 and from days −5 to −2, lesser prepartum EB on day −8 and from days −5 to −2, and lesser postpartum DMI%BW than cows without ODDZ. Each 0.1 percentage point decrease in the average DMI%BW and each Mcal decrease in the average EB in the last 3 days prepartum increased the odds of having indigestion by 9% each. Cutoffs for DMI%BW and EB during the last 3 days prepartum to predict indigestion were established and were ≤1.3%/day and ≤0.68 Mcal/day, respectively. In summary, measures of prepartum DMI%BW and EB were associated with indigestion and ODDZ postpartum and were predictors of indigestion postpartum, although the effect sizes were small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanny Pérez-Báez
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Agronómicas y Veterinarias, Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Carlos A Risco
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ricardo C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Gabriel C Gomes
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Leandro F Greco
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Sha Tao
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Izabella M Toledo
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Bruno C do Amaral
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Marcos G Zenobi
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Natalia Martinez
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Geoffrey E Dahl
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jorge A Hernández
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jessica G Prim
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - José Eduardo P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.,D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Klibs N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.,D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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29
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Manríquez D, Thatcher WW, Santos JEP, Chebel RC, Galvão KN, Schuenemann GM, Bicalho RC, Gilbert RO, Rodriguez-Zas S, Seabury CM, Rosa GJM, Pinedo P. Effect of body condition change and health status during early lactation on performance and survival of Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:12785-12799. [PMID: 34593229 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-20091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Body condition score (BCS) and disease records are commonly available in dairy operations. However, the effect of BCS changes (ΔBCS) considering specific health profiles has not been investigated extensively. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of different levels of ΔBCS on fertility, milk yield, and survival of Holstein cows diagnosed with reproductive disorders (REP; dystocia, twins, retained fetal membranes, metritis, and clinical endometritis), other health disorders (OTH; subclinical ketosis, left displaced abomasum, lameness, clinical mastitis, and respiratory disease), or with no disease events (HLT) within 40 days in milk (DIM). Data included lactation information from 11,733 cows calving between November 2012 and October 2014 in 16 herds across 4 geographical regions in the United States (Northeast, Midwest, Southwest, Southeast). Cows were evaluated for BCS at 5 ± 3 DIM (BCS5) and at 40 ± 3 DIM (BCS40) and the difference between BCS40 and BCS5 was classified as excessive loss of BCS (EL; ΔBCS ≤-0.75), moderate loss (ML; ΔBCS = -0.5 to -0.25), no change (NC; ΔBCS = 0), or gain of BCS (GN; ΔBCS ≥0.25). Multivariable logistic regression was used for assessing potential associations between the outcomes of interest and ΔBCS and health. The effect of the interaction term ΔBCS by health group was not statistically significant for any of the study outcomes. The odds of resumption of ovarian cyclicity (ROC), in GN, NC, and ML cows were 1.94 (95% CI: 1.57-2.40), 1.59 (1.28-1.97), and 1.27 (1.10-1.47) times greater than the odds of ROC in EL cows, respectively. The odds of pregnancy at 150 DIM (P150) in GN cows were 1.61 (1.20-2.17) times greater than the odds of P150 in EL cows. Cows with REP or OTH disorders had smaller odds of ROC compared with HLT cows [REP: OR = 0.65 (0.56-0.76) and OTH: OR = 0.79 (0.68-0.92)]. For pregnancy outcomes, REP cows had smaller odds of pregnancy at the first artificial insemination compared with HLT cows [0.70 (0.58-0.84)]. Similarly, REP cows had smaller odds of being diagnosed pregnant by 150 and 305 DIM compared with HLT cows [P150: 0.73 (0.59-0.87), P305: 0.58 (0.49-0.69)]. Overall, average daily milk within the first 90 DIM was greater in EL (39.5 ± 1.13 kg/d) and ML (38.9 ± 1.11 kg/d) cows than in NC (37.8 ± 1.12 kg/d) and GN (36.2 ± 1.12 kg/d) cows. On the other hand, average daily milk within the first 90 DIM was lower in REP (37.0 ± 1.11 kg/d) cows compared with OTH (38.7 ± 1.12 kg/d) and HLT cows (38.6 ± 1.11 kg/d). The magnitude of ΔBCS and the health status of early lactation cows should be considered when assessing subsequent cow performance and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80521
| | - W W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - R C Chebel
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - K N Galvão
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - G M Schuenemann
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus 43210
| | - R C Bicalho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850
| | - R O Gilbert
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Ross University, St. Kitts, West Indies
| | - S Rodriguez-Zas
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 61801
| | - C M Seabury
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - G J M Rosa
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706
| | - P Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80521.
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Moraes JGN, Silva PRB, Mendonça LGD, Okada CTC, Chebel RC. Risk factors for purulent vaginal discharge and its association with reproductive performance of lactating Jersey cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:12816-12829. [PMID: 34482979 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite the rapid growth in popularity of the Jersey breed, most research on dairy cows in the United States has been done with the Holstein breed. Postpartum uterine diseases negatively influence reproductive performance of dairy cows and limited data are available regarding predisposing factors for uterine diseases in Jersey cows. Our objectives were to determine the prevalence and risk factors for purulent vaginal discharge (PVD) and its effect on fertility of lactating Jersey cows. This was a retrospective observational study with data collected from 3,822 Jersey cows. The Metricheck device was used for PVD diagnosis, and positive cases (≥50% of pus in exudate) were further classified for severity using the following 4 categories based on the amount of pus observed: 50 to 60% pus in exudate, 60 to 90% pus in exudate, 90 to 100% pus in exudate, and 90 to 100% pus in exudate + uterine fluid detected by palpation per rectum. Univariable and multivariable regression analyzes were conducted to dissect the risk factors for PVD and severity of PVD in Jerseys cows. The major risk factors for PVD were calving-related problems, retained fetal membrane, metritis, and days in the close-up diet. A subgroup of cows (n = 740) was scored for body condition and locomotion scores and had blood sampled in the peripartum for determination of plasma concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate. In the multivariable analysis that considered data collected for the subgroup of cows, peripartum nonesterified fatty acids, postpartum β-hydroxybutyrate, and peripartum locomotion and body condition scores were not retained in the reduced model of predictors of PVD. Not surprisingly, pregnancy per artificial insemination following the first and second services was reduced in cows diagnosed with PVD compared with cows without PVD. In addition, PVD was associated with increased odds of pregnancy loss after the first service and reduced hazard of pregnancy by 305 d in milk. The stratification of PVD severity according to the amount of pus observed and the consistency of the uterus was meaningful, as observed by the differences in reproductive outcomes between cows with diverging amounts of pus in the retrieved exudate. Risk factors for PVD in Jersey cows was similar to previously reported for Holstein cows, and a strong detrimental effect of PVD on fertility was also observed in Jersey cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G N Moraes
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078; Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55108.
| | - P R B Silva
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55108
| | - L G D Mendonça
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55108
| | - C T C Okada
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55108
| | - R C Chebel
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55108; Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610
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Churakov M, Karlsson J, Edvardsson Rasmussen A, Holtenius K. Milk fatty acids as indicators of negative energy balance of dairy cows in early lactation. Animal 2021; 15:100253. [PMID: 34090089 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Most dairy cows experience negative energy balance (NEB) in early lactation because energy demand for milk synthesis is not met by energy intake. Excessive NEB may lead to metabolic disorders and impaired fertility. To optimize herd management, it is useful to detect cows in NEB in early lactation, but direct calculation of NEB is not feasible in commercial herds. Alternative methods rely on fat-to-protein ratio in milk or on concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in blood. Here, we considered methods to assess energy balance (EB) of dairy cows based on the fatty acid (FA) composition in milk. Short- and medium-chain FAs (primarily, C14:0) are typically synthesized de novo in the mammary gland and their proportions in milk fat decrease during NEB. Long-chain FAs C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 are typically released from body fat depots during NEB, and their proportions increase. In this study, these FAs were routinely determined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of individual milk samples. We performed an experiment on 85 dairy cows in early lactation, fed the same concentrate ration of up to 5 kg per day and forage ad libitum. Daily milk yield and feed intake were automatically recorded. During lactation weeks 2, 4, and 6 after calving, two milk samples were collected for FTIR spectroscopy, Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, blood plasma samples were collected Thursday morning. Net energy content in feed and net energy required for maintenance and lactation were estimated to derive EB, which was used to compare alternative indicators of severe NEB. Linear univariate models for EB based on NEFA concentration (deviance explained = 0.13) and other metabolites in blood plasma were outperformed by models based on concentrations of metabolites in milk: fat (0.27), fat-to-protein ratio (0.18), BHB (0.20), and especially C18:0 (0.28) and C18:1 cis-9 (0.39). Analysis of generalized additive models (GAM) revealed that models based on milk variables performed better than those based on blood plasma (deviance explained 0.46 vs. 0.21). C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 also performed better in severe NEB prediction for EB cut-off values ranging from -50 to 0 MJ NEL/d. Overall, concentrations of C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 in milk, milk fat, and milk BHB were the best variables for early detection of cows in severe NEB. Thus, milk FA concentrations in whole milk can be useful to identify NEB in early-lactation cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Churakov
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7024, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden; Beijer Laboratory for Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7024, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - J Karlsson
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7024, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - A Edvardsson Rasmussen
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7024, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - K Holtenius
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Box 7024, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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Pattamanont P, Galvão KN, Marcondes MI, Clay JS, De Vries A. Associations between dry period length and time to culling and pregnancy in the subsequent lactation. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:8885-8900. [PMID: 34053765 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The association between dry period length (DPL) and time to culling and pregnancy in the subsequent lactation may be important for the economically optimal length of the dry period. Therefore, this study aimed to (1) quantify the association between DPL and hazard of culling and pregnancy in the subsequent lactation; (2) develop continuous functions of DPL for the hazard ratios of culling and pregnancy; and (3) investigate the effect of a cause-specific hazards model and a subdistribution model to analyze competing events. The data used in this observational cohort study were from dairy herd improvement milk test lactation records from 40 states in the United States. After edits, there remained 1,108,515 records from 6,730 herds with the last days dry in 2014 or 2015. The records from 2 adjacent lactations (current, subsequent) were concatenated with the DPL of interest, 21 to 100 d, in between both lactations. We defined 8 DPL categories of 10 d each. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to show associations between DPL and time to culling or pregnancy for 3 lactation groups: lactation 1 and 2, lactation 2 and 3, and lactation 3 and greater. To control for confounding factors in Cox proportional models, we included 6 current lactation covariates and 3 time-dependent variables in the survival models. Hazard ratios of culling were estimated for 4 days in milk (DIM) categories from 1 to 450 DIM. Hazard ratios of pregnancy were estimated for 3 DIM categories from 61 to 300 DIM. Competing risk analysis of 8 disposal codes (i.e., farmer reported reasons) for culling and the culling event for pregnancy were conducted by a cause-specific hazards model and a subdistribution model. Hazard ratios were also estimated as quadratic polynomials of DPL. Compared with the reference DPL category of 51 to 60 d, hazard ratios of culling and pregnancy of the other 7 DPL categories ranged between 0.70 and 1.49, and 0.93 and 1.15, respectively. Short DPL were associated with lower risk of culling in the early lactation but not over the entire lactation. Short DPL were associated with greater hazard of pregnancy. Trends in hazard ratios over the ranges of the 8 DPL categories were not always consistent. Competing risk analysis with both models provided little differences in hazard ratios of culling and pregnancy. In conclusion, variations in DPL were associated with meaningful differences in the hazard ratios for culling and pregnancy and minor differences in the relative frequency of disposal codes. Subdistribution hazards models produced hazard ratios similar to cause-specific hazard models. The quadratic polynomials may be useful for decision support on customization of DPL for individual cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pattamanont
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - K N Galvão
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610
| | - M I Marcondes
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Vicosa, Vicosa, Minas Gerais, 36570-001 Brazil
| | - J S Clay
- Dairy Records Management Systems, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27603
| | - A De Vries
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611.
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Vieira-Neto A, Duarte GA, Zimpel R, Thatcher WW, Santos JEP. Days in the prepartum group are associated with subsequent performance in Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:5964-5978. [PMID: 33663839 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate the association between days in the prepartum group (DPG) with performance and survival in Holstein cows. Data from 18,657 Holstein cow-lactations (6,993 nulliparous and 9,390 parous prepartum) were collected. Cows with a gestation length shorter than 256 d (n = 267) or longer than 296 d (n = 131) and cows that spent 0 DPG (n = 238) were removed, resulting in 18,021 cow-lactations. Data were collected for the first 300 d postpartum, and responses included milk yield, incidence of diseases by 90 d postpartum, reproduction, and survival. Days in the prepartum group were analyzed as a continuous variable, and regression coefficients were used to estimate the responses when cows spent 7, 28, or 42 DPG, representing cows with a short, moderate, or an extended time in the prepartum group, respectively. An interaction between DPG as a quadratic covariate and parity-diet was observed for milk yield by 300 d postpartum. Means were 9,331; 9,665; and 9,261 kg for 7, 28, or 42 DPG, respectively, in nulliparous cows, and 9,886; 10,939; and 10,117 kg for 7, 28, or 42 DPG, respectively, in parous cows. Also, the interaction between DPG and parity-diet affected retained placenta, metritis, mastitis, and morbidity. Morbidity affected 49.5, 52.9, and 59.5% of nulliparous and 49.7, 26.5, and 47.4% of parous cows that spent 7, 28, or 42 DPG, respectively. A linear association between DPG and pregnancy at first artificial insemination was observed with estimates of 37.0, 32.6, and 29.8% for 7, 28, and 42 DPG, respectively. On the other hand, a quadratic association was observed between DPG and the proportion of pregnant cows at 300 d postpartum, and estimates for 7, 28, and 42 DPG were, respectively, 71.7, 73.5, and 58.8%. A quadratic relationship was also observed for DPG and removal from the herd by 300 d postpartum, and estimates were 25.2, 22.9, and 34.4% for 7, 28, or 42 DPG, respectively. Associations between DPG with production, health, reproduction, and survival were detected, and they varied with parity-diet group. For several responses evaluated, a quadratic association was observed, which suggested that there was an optimal period for cows to spend in the prepartum group, and reduced or extended number of days were detrimental to performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vieira-Neto
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611; DH Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - G A Duarte
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - R Zimpel
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611; DH Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - W W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611; DH Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611; DH Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611.
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Daros RR, Havekes CD, DeVries TJ. Body condition loss during the dry period: Insights from feeding behavior studies. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:4682-4691. [PMID: 33612220 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Body condition change during the dry period (ΔBCS) has been associated with a myriad of transition cow diseases. We used data from 3 studies to assess the relationship between ΔBCS, feeding behavior, and body condition score (BCS) at dry-off. We also studied the mediation effect that dry matter intake (DMI) has on ΔBCS and the association between dry period feeding time and DMI. A total of 100 parous cows were enrolled in 3 studies to investigate differences in dry period diet on behavior, health, and performance pre- and postcalving. Body weight was measured and BCS was assessed by the same trained observer after dry-off and 1 wk from calving date. The ΔBCS was calculated by subtracting the BCS at calving minus the BCS at dry-off. The BCS at dry-off was categorized as overconditioned (≥3.5) or not overconditioned (<3.5); no cows had a BCS <2.75. Feeding behavior data were collected using electronic feed bins. Parity at dry-off (median = 2; min = 1, max = 6) and 305-d milk production (mean = 10,235 kg, SD = 1,625 kg) from the previous lactation were considered. Data sets were split into 2 time periods: d -56 to -22 (early) and -21 to 0 (late) in relation to calving. Selected feeding behaviors (DMI, DMI as a percentage of body weight, and feeding time) were used to evaluate the associations between each feeding behavior and BCS at dry-off in each period using mixed linear regression models. Each model included the following covariates: parity, previous 305-d milk yield, and trial treatment. Experimental day was included as random slope, and cow was included as random intercept. A mediation analysis was used to evaluate the potential causal direct effect of BCS at dry-off on ΔBCS and the potential indirect effect mediated by differences in DMI. The BCS at dry-off was associated with changes in feeding behavior, such that overconditioned cows had lesser daily DMI and feeding time during the early and late dry periods compared with not overconditioned animals. We also noted an effect of previous 305-d milk yield on DMI; cows that produced more milk had greater DMI throughout the dry period. The ΔBCS was only partially mediated by DMI, and BCS at dry-off still had a direct effect on ΔBCS. This result indicated that mechanisms other than DMI were associated with BCS loss during the dry period. Feeding time correlated weakly and moderately with DMI during the early and late dry periods, respectively. To conclude, strategies to improve intake during the dry period should take dry-off BCS into account or, preferably, efforts should be made to minimize the number of overconditioned cows at the end of lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruan R Daros
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada; Graduate Program in Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná 80215-901, Brazil
| | - Casey D Havekes
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Trevor J DeVries
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Hut PR, Hostens MM, Beijaard MJ, van Eerdenburg FJCM, Hulsen JHJL, Hooijer GA, Stassen EN, Nielen M. Associations between body condition score, locomotion score, and sensor-based time budgets of dairy cattle during the dry period and early lactation. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:4746-4763. [PMID: 33589250 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Lameness, one of the most important disorders in the dairy industry, is related to postpartum diseases and has an effect on dairy cow welfare, leading to changes in cows' daily behavioral variables. This study quantified the effect of lameness on the daily time budget of dairy cows in the transition period. In total, 784 multiparous dairy cows from 8 commercial Dutch dairy farms were visually scored on their locomotion (score of 1-5) and body condition (score of 1-5). Each cow was scored in the early and late dry period as well as in wk 4 and 8 postpartum. Cows with locomotion scores 1 and 2 were grouped together as nonlame, cows with score 3 were considered moderately lame, and cows with scores 4 and 5 were grouped together as severely lame. Cows were equipped with 2 types of sensors that measured behavioral parameters. The leg sensor provided number of steps, number of stand-ups (moving from lying to standing), lying time, number of lying bouts, and lying bout length. The neck sensor provided eating time, number of eating bouts, eating bout length, rumination time, number of rumination bouts, and rumination bout length. Sensor data for each behavioral parameter were averaged between 2 d before and 2 d after locomotion scoring. The percentage of nonlame cows decreased from 63% in the early dry period to 46% at 8 wk in lactation; this decrease was more severe for cows with higher parity. Cows that calved in autumn had the highest odds for lameness. Body condition score loss of >0.75 point in early lactation was associated with lameness in wk 4 postpartum. Moderately lame cows had a reduction of daily eating time of around 20 min, whereas severely lame cows had a reduction of almost 40 min. Similarly, moderately and severely lame dry cows showed a reduction of 200 steps/d, and severely lame cows in lactation showed a reduction of 600 steps/d. Daily lying time increased by 26 min and lying bout length increased by 8 min in severely lame cows compared with nonlame cows. These results indicate a high prevalence of lameness on Dutch dairy farms, with an increase in higher locomotion scores from the dry period into early lactation. Time budgets for multiparous dairy cows differed between the dry period and the lactating period, with a higher locomotion score (increased lameness) having an effect on cows' complete behavioral profile. Body condition score loss in early lactation was associated with poor locomotion postpartum, whereas lameness resulted in less eating time in the dry period and early lactation, creating a harmful cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Hut
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - M M Hostens
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke 9820, Belgium
| | - M J Beijaard
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - F J C M van Eerdenburg
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J H J L Hulsen
- Vetvice/Cowsignals, 4614 PC Bergen op Zoom, the Netherlands
| | - G A Hooijer
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - E N Stassen
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - M Nielen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Division of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80151, 3508 TD Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Caixeta LS, Omontese BO. Monitoring and Improving the Metabolic Health of Dairy Cows during the Transition Period. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020352. [PMID: 33572498 PMCID: PMC7911117 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The transition from late gestation to early lactation is a challenging period for dairy cows. A successful transition period depends on metabolic adaptation to the new physiological state in early lactation and proper management in order to support the cow’s requirements. This review paper will discuss various aspects of routine and consistent approaches to collect and analyze herd records, to detect unintended disruptions in performance. In addition, we discuss how to incorporate methods to assess health, production, nutrition, and welfare information to monitor cows during the transition period. Lastly, we discuss management strategies that can be implemented to improve the metabolic health and performance of transition dairy cows. Abstract The peripartum period of a dairy cow is characterized by several physiological and behavioral changes in response to a rapid increase in nutrient demands, to support the final stages of fetal growth and the production of colostrum and milk. Traditionally, the transition period is defined as the period 3 weeks before and 3 weeks after parturition. However, several researchers have argued that the transition period begins at the time of dry-off (~60–50 days prior to calving) and extends beyond the first month post-calving in high producing dairy cows. Independent of the definition used, adequate adaptation to the physiological demands of this period is paramount for a successful lactation. Nonetheless, not all cows are successful in transitioning from late gestation to early lactation, leading to approximately one third of dairy cows having at least one clinical disease (metabolic and/or infectious) and more than half of the cows having at least one subclinical case of disease within the first 90 days of lactation. Thus, monitoring dairy cows during this period is essential to detect early disease signs, diagnose clinical and subclinical diseases, and initiate targeted health management to avoid health and production impairment. In this review, we discuss different strategies to monitor dairy cows to detected unintended disruptions in performance and management strategies that can be implemented to improve the metabolic health and performance of dairy cows during the transition period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano S. Caixeta
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-612-625-3130
| | - Bobwealth O. Omontese
- Department of Food and Animal Sciences, College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences, Alabama A&M University, Normal, AL 35811, USA;
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Factors That Optimize Reproductive Efficiency in Dairy Herds with an Emphasis on Timed Artificial Insemination Programs. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020301. [PMID: 33503935 PMCID: PMC7912388 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Reproductive efficiency is critical for profitability of dairy operations. The first part of this manuscript discusses the key physiology of dairy cows and how to practically manipulate this reproductive physiology to produce timed artificial insemination (TAI) programs with enhanced fertility. In addition, there are other critical factors that also influence reproductive efficiency of dairy herds such as genetics, management of the transition period, and body condition score changes and improve management and facilities to increase cow comfort and reduce health problems. Using optimized TAI protocols combined with enhancing cow/management factors that impact reproductive efficiency generates dairy herd programs with high reproductive efficiency, while improving health and productivity of the herds. Abstract Reproductive efficiency is closely tied to the profitability of dairy herds, and therefore successful dairy operations seek to achieve high 21-day pregnancy rates in order to reduce the calving interval and days in milk of the herd. There are various factors that impact reproductive performance, including the specific reproductive management program, body condition score loss and nutritional management, genetics of the cows, and the cow comfort provided by the facilities and management programs. To achieve high 21-day pregnancy rates, the service rate and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) should be increased. Currently, there are adjustments in timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocols and use of presynchronization programs that can increase P/AI, even to the point that fertility is higher with some TAI programs as compared with AI after standing estrus. Implementation of a systematic reproductive management program that utilizes efficient TAI programs with optimized management strategies can produce high reproductive indexes combined with healthy cows having high milk production termed “the high fertility cycle”. The scientific results that underlie these concepts are presented in this manuscript along with how these ideas can be practically implemented to improve reproductive efficiency on commercial dairy operations.
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Chebel RC. Predicting the risk of retained fetal membranes and metritis in dairy cows according to prepartum hemogram and immune and metabolic status. Prev Vet Med 2020; 187:105204. [PMID: 33257005 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.105204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Uterine diseases affect a significant proportion of dairy cows, causing significant economic losses. Immune and metabolic statuses are associated with the risk of retained fetal membranes (RFM) and metritis. The hypothesis of this study was that it is possible to use such responses to predict the risk of RFM and metritis. Data from cows (Jersey = 143, Holstein = 116) previously used in four experiments were used. Cow factors [parity, BCS change from -28 to 0 d relative to calving, calf sex, calving problems (twins, stillbirth, dystocia)] were evaluated for their association with the risk of RFM and metritis. Blood samples collected in the last week of gestation were used to measure polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis, oxidative burst, and expression of CD18 and CD62L, total blood count, haptoglobin optical density, and concentrations of glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, and β-hydroxybutyrate. Cows were treated with egg ovalbumin at -21, -7, and 7 d relative to calving and blood samples were used to determine the anti-ovalbumin IgG optical density. Univariable analyses were carried out to identify variables associated with the risk of RFM and metritis. The significant (P ≤ 0.15) variables were included in multivariable models from which variables with P > 0.15 were removed in a backward stepwise fashion. Risk of RFM was reduced in the absence of calving problems [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 0.13 (0.02, 0.86)], when intensity of phagocytosis [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.50 (0.25, 1.04)] and expression of CD62L [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.71 (0.46, 1.09)] by polymorphonuclear leukocyte were greater, and when prepartum non-esterified fatty acid concentration was lower [AOR (95 % CI) = 8.71 (0.49, 153.84)]. Calf sex [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.35 (0.10, 1.25)], calving problem [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.14 (0.02, 1.08)], PMNL phagocytosis intensity [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.72 (0.47, 1.11)], polymorphonuclear leukocyte intensity of expression CD18 [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.78 (0.60, 1.00)] and CD62L [AOR (95 % CI) = 0.77 (0.60, 0.98)], and haptoglobin optical density [AOR (95 % CI) = 1.16 (0.97, 1.39)] were associated with metritis. Indexes generated from the estimates of the multivariable analyses to predict the risk of RFM [area under the curve = 0.77 (95 % CI = 0.70 to 0.84)] and metritis [area under the curve = 0.76 (95 % CI = 0.70, 0.81)] demonstrated that polymorphonuclear leukocyte function, non-esterified fatty acid concentration, and haptoglobin optical density prepartum may be used as predictors of uterine diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo C Chebel
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
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Osorio JS. Gut health, stress, and immunity in neonatal dairy calves: the host side of host-pathogen interactions. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:105. [PMID: 33292513 PMCID: PMC7649058 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-00509-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The cumulative evidence that perinatal events have long-lasting ripple effects through the life of livestock animals should impact future nutritional and management recommendations at the farm level. The implications of fetal programming due to malnutrition, including neonatal survival and lower birth weights, have been characterized, particularly during early and mid-gestation, when placental and early fetal stages are being developed. The accelerated fetal growth during late pregnancy has been known for some time, while the impact of maternal stressors during this time on fetal development and by extent its postnatal repercussions on health and performance are still being defined. Maternal stressors during late pregnancy cannot only influence colostrogenesis but also compromise adequate intestinal development in the fetus, thus, that further limits the newborn's ability to absorb nutrients, bioactive compounds, and immunity (i.e., immunoglobulins, cytokines, and immune cells) from colostrum. These negative effects set the newborn calf to a challenging start in life by compromising passive immunity and intestinal maturation needed to establish a mature postnatal mucosal immune system while needing to digest and absorb nutrients in milk or milk replacer. Besides the dense-nutrient content and immunity in colostrum, it contains bioactive compounds such as growth factors, hormones, and cholesterol as well as molecular signals or instructions [e.g., microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)] transferred from mother to offspring with the aim to influence postnatal gut maturation. The recent change in paradigm regarding prenatal materno-fetal microbiota inoculation and likely the presence of microbiota in the developing fetus intestine needs to be addressed in future research in ruminants. There still much to know on what prenatal or postnatal factors may predispose neonates to become susceptible to enteropathogens (e.g., enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli), causing diarrhea. From the host-side of this host-pathogen interaction, molecular data such as fecal RNA could, over time, help fill those gaps in knowledge. In addition, merging this novel fecal RNA approach with more established microbiome techniques can provide a more holistic picture of an enteropathogenesis and potentially uncover control points that can be addressed through management or nutrition at the farm level to minimize preweaning morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan S Osorio
- Dairy and Food Science Department, South Dakota State University, 113 H Alfred Dairy Science Hall, Brookings, SD, 57007, USA.
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Olagaray KE, Overton MW, Bradford BJ. Do biological and management reasons for a short or long dry period induce the same effects on dairy cattle productivity? J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:11857-11875. [PMID: 33010912 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The dry period is a well-established factor that determines lactation success. A retrospective observational study used 32,182 lactations from 16 farms to determine whether management versus biological reasons for deviations from the targeted 60-d dry period have the same associations with subsequent lactation performance. Herd inclusion criteria were Holstein cows, herd size ≥900 cows, breeding by artificial insemination, and (minimally) bimonthly milk testing. Dry period length (DPL) and gestation length (GL) were each categorized as short [>1 standard deviation (SD) below mean within herd; means 45 d DPL, 269 d GL] or long (>1 SD above mean within herd; means 73 d DPL, 284 d GL) and combined to generate the following 7 study groups: short DPL, short GL (SDSG, n = 2,123); short DPL, average GL (SDAG, n = 1,418); average DPL, short GL (ADSG, n = 1,759); average DPL, average GL (ADAG, n = 19,265); average DPL, long GL (ADLG, n = 3,325); long DPL, average GL (LDAG, n = 2,573); and long DPL, long GL (LDLG, n = 1,719). Responses evaluated included milk and component yields at first test and over the whole lactation, days to first service, first service conception risk, days open, and herd retention through 60 and 365 d postpartum. Continuous data were analyzed by mixed models and time to event data by Cox proportional hazard models, both accounting for clustering at the herd level. First test and whole-lactation milk and component yields were lowest for SDSG. Within cows that experienced calving difficulty, rates of receiving first service were 13 and 20% less for SDSG and ADSG compared with ADAG. Hazard of leaving the herd by 60 d in milk (DIM) was 34% greater for ADSG than ADAG. Similar effects between SDSG and ADSG but not SDAG indicated that short GL was a greater contributor to poor performance than DPL itself. Overall production was similar between ADAG and SDAG; however, somatic cell linear score at first test was greater for SDAG, and milk yield at first test was lesser for SDAG cows with greater milk at last test before dry-off. Although short DPL might be a successful strategy for some herds or cows, cows with high milk yield at dry-off should not be subjected to a short dry period. Long DPL or GL did not influence early-lactation or whole-lactation milk yield. Cows with a long DPL due to early dry-off (LDAG) likely experienced issues related to excessive lipid mobilization, as milk fat concentration and fat:protein ratio at first test were greater and hazard of leaving the herd was 30 and 24% greater compared with ADAG by 60 and 365 DIM, respectively. We conclude that deviations in DPL length caused by biology (short GL) were associated with greater effects than management causes of short DPL, whereas management reasons for long DPL were associated with more negative outcomes than long GL.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Olagaray
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, 66506
| | | | - B J Bradford
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, 66506.
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Manríquez D, Velez J, Pinedo PJ. Incidence and risk factors for reproductive disorders in organic certified dairies. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:10797-10808. [PMID: 32896412 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine the lactational incidence risks of reproductive disorders (RD) including dystocia (DYS), retained fetal membranes (RFM), puerperal metritis (PM), clinical endometritis (CE), pyometra (PYO), late pregnancy loss (LPL), and culling due to reproductive reasons (CRR) in large organic certified dairies with predominant use of Holstein genetics. In addition, potential risk factors for RD, including parity category, milk yield in the previous lactation, season of dry-off, access to grazing at dry-off, length of the dry period (DPL), length of the close-up period (CUPL), calculated gestation length (CGL), season of calving, access to grazing at calving, concurrent health conditions, and total number of artificial inseminations were analyzed. A retrospective study was performed using information from 8 organic certified herds located in northern Colorado and west Texas, ranging from 900 to 6,000 milking cows. Cow information consisted of finalized lactations starting with calvings occurring between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018. Data were analyzed using time-to-event analyses and multivariable logistic regression. Clinical endometritis had the greatest lactational incidence risk (incidence risk = 10.1%; 95% CI = 9.8-10.3%), followed by DYS (8.8%; 8.5-9.1%), PM (4.9%; 4.7-5.1%), PYO (4.0%; 3.8-4.1%), LPL (3.6%; 3.4-3.7%), and RFM (2.0%; 1.8-2.1%). The incidence risk of CRR was 7.5% (7.3-8.7%), representing 29.1% (28.4-30.0%) of all culling reasons. Median time from calving to diagnosis of PM, CE, PYO, and LPL were 6, 23, 111, and 228 d, respectively. Median time for CRR was 391 d. The main risk factors for RD were DPL, CGL, and CUPL. Season of dry-off was a risk factor for RFM, PM, CE, LPL, and PYO. Short DPL (<30 d) was associated with increased odds (95% CI) of RFM [2.1 (1.6-2.7)], PM [1.4 (1.2-1.7)], and LPL [2.5 (1.5-4.2)]. Shortened CGL (<270 d) increased the odds of DYS [1.5 (1.3-1.8)], RFM [3.2 (2.4-4.1)], and PM [2.4 (1.7-3.3)], whereas extended CGL (>285 d) increased the odds of DYS [1.5 (1.4-1.7)], PM [1.5 (1.2-2.0)], CE [1.5 (1.1-2.0)], and CRR [1.2 (1.10-1.4)]. Shortened CUPL was associated with increased odds of all the RD. Cows spending less than 7 d in the close-up groups had greater odds of DYS [1.4 (1.1-1.8)], RFM [2.1 (1.8-2.4)], PM [1.9 (1.6-2.1)], PYO [1.5 (1.2-1.8)], LPL [2 (1.7-2.3)], and CRR [1.4 (1.04-1.8)] compared with cows spending more than 14 d in the close-up group. Season of calving was associated with the odds of PM [summer = 1.13 (1.01-1.2)], PYO [summer = 1.7 (1.1-2.5)], and LPL ([fall = 0.8 (0.6-0.96)] compared with winter calving. Other risk factors affecting RD were parity number, total number of artificial inseminations, and concurrent health conditions. Overall, lactational incidence risks of reproductive diseases were comparable with those reported in conventional herds. The identified risk factors for RD open opportunities for interventions, especially focused in precalving management, estimation of due dates, and closer monitoring of pregnancies from natural services in large organic certified dairy herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Manríquez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523-1171
| | - J Velez
- Aurora Organic Farms, Platteville, CO 80651
| | - P J Pinedo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523-1171.
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Bezdíček J, Nesvadbová A, Makarevich A, Kubovičová E. Relationship between the animal body condition and reproduction: the biotechnological aspects. Arch Anim Breed 2020; 63:203-209. [PMID: 32760787 PMCID: PMC7397717 DOI: 10.5194/aab-63-203-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review was to evaluate the relationship between the body
condition of cows and reproduction. Reproduction was evaluated from the
viewpoint of animal husbandry traits, ovarian activity and embryo transfer.
Main emphasis was given to the review of articles from the area of
biotechnical methods (in vitro embryo production, embryo transfer). Most authors agree on the opinion that the worsening of the reproduction traits of cows is a result of changes in the body condition score (BCS) either under or over their average value. Worsening of reproduction traits was presented not only from a zootechnical viewpoint (e.g., calving interval, 56 d nonreturn rate, etc.) but also in term of ovarian activity, oocyte recovery and in vitro embryo
production. In general, the body condition of cows is an important factor
affecting female reproduction ability at the ovarian level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiří Bezdíček
- Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, 771 47, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Nesvadbová
- Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, 771 47, Czech Republic
| | - Alexander Makarevich
- National Agricultural and Food Centre (NPPC), Research Institute for Animal Production Nitra, 95141 Lužianky, Slovak Republic
| | - Elena Kubovičová
- National Agricultural and Food Centre (NPPC), Research Institute for Animal Production Nitra, 95141 Lužianky, Slovak Republic
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Scanavez ALA, Voelz BE, Moraes JGN, Green JA, Mendonça LGD. Physiological, health, lactation, and reproductive traits of cooled dairy cows classified as having high or low core body temperature during the dry period1. J Anim Sci 2020; 97:4792-4802. [PMID: 31701132 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skz345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary objectives of this study were to compare concentrations of pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) before calving, prolactin (PRL) after calving, and energy balance indicators before and after calving in cooled cows classified as having high (HT) or low (LT) core body temperature (CBT) during the dry period. Secondary objectives were to investigate associations between dry-period CBT and likelihood of cows developing health disorders, and compare health, productive and reproductive traits of HT and LT cows. Dry Holstein cows (n = 260) with 250 to 260 d of gestation from three herds were enrolled in the study during summer. Cows were provided evaporative cooling during the dry and lactating period. The vaginal temperature was recorded in 5-min intervals during 7 consecutive days and cows were classified as HT or LT. Blood samples were collected weekly from enrollment until 14 ± 3 d in milk (DIM). Additional blood samples were collected within 12 h postpartum from a subgroup of cows (n = 25) to determine PRL concentration. Cows were monitored for health disorders, productive, and reproductive performance until 13 wk of the subsequent lactation. High temperature cows had shorter (P < 0.01) gestation length (273.9 ± 0.9 vs. 278.2 ± 0.9 d) and greater (P < 0.01) incidence of twinning (19.7 vs. 4.2%) than LT cows. Cows classified as HT had greater (P = 0.02) PAG concentration (134.1 ± 4.9 vs. 117.4 ± 4.9 ng/mL), but postpartum PRL concentration did not (P = 0.55) differ between HT and LT cows. Primiparous HT cows had greater (P = 0.05) prepartum nonesterified fatty acids concentration (135, 95% CI = 102 to 178 vs. 104, 95% CI = 75 to 144 mmol/dL) than primiparous LT cows, but no differences (P = 0.72) were observed between CBT group in multiparous cows. The concentration of β-hydroxybutyrate was greater (P = 0.04) for LT compared with HT cows at 7 ± 3 DIM. The quadratic effect of CBT tended (P = 0.09) to be associated with risk of health disorders within 60 DIM. Milk yield tended (P = 0.10) to be greater for LT compared with HT cows (49.3 ± 1.9 vs. 46.2 ± 1.6 kg). Pregnancy per AI at first service did not (P = 0.64) differ between HT and LT cows. In conclusion, HT cows have distinct concentrations of PAG in late gestation and energy balance indicators during the transition period. In addition, CBT assessment during the dry period may be a useful tool to identify cows expected to have impaired health and milk yield in the subsequent lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin E Voelz
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Joao G N Moraes
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Jonathan A Green
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
| | - Luis G D Mendonça
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
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Abuelo A. Symposium review: Late-gestation maternal factors affecting the health and development of dairy calves. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:3882-3893. [PMID: 32037167 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Efficient production of heifers is fundamental to the productivity and sustainability of dairy farms. However, high preweaning morbidity and mortality rates are frequently reported worldwide, imposing substantial welfare and economic implications. A major contributing factor to disease susceptibility in the neonatal stage is the inability of calves to mount an effective immune response. Appreciation is now greater that exposure in utero to several stresses (nutritional, social, metabolic, and so on) during the last stages of pregnancy have downstream carryover effects in calves' health, growth, and development. Suboptimal intrauterine conditions during critical periods of development lead to changes in tissue structure and function that may have long-term consequences on the offspring's physiology and disease susceptibility. Indeed, preweaning metabolic function and growth are associated with future milk production. Thus, late-gestation carryover effects span into the lactating stage of the heifers. Nevertheless, researchers have been studying how to minimize these effects. This review will discuss the effects of maternal stress during late gestation on the offspring's growth, productivity, metabolism, and health. In addition, strategies focusing on maternal interventions that improve neonatal health will be discussed. A better understanding of the intrauterine conditions affecting calf health and growth may facilitate the design of management practices that could improve neonatal development and future cow productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Abuelo
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd., East Lansing 48824.
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Effects of Body Condition Score Changes During Peripartum on the Postpartum Health and Production Performance of Primiparous Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9121159. [PMID: 31861177 PMCID: PMC6940961 DOI: 10.3390/ani9121159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study systematically describes the effects of body condition score (BCS) changes in primiparous cows during the peripartum period on hormone indexes, health, and production. The BCS and its changes indirectly measure the degree of fat mobilization and is a good predictor of the risk of postpartum disease. In production practice, confounding the management of primiparous and multiparous cow risks neglecting the postpartum characteristics of primiparous cows. A prospective observational study observed that primiparous cows that have a lower BCS have higher non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentrations and more dramatic hormonal changes. Prepartum BCS changes were inconsistent and small, while after calving, there was a drastic decline in the BCS, suggesting that even a slight drop in the prepartum BCS may be a warning of a postpartum risk for primiparous cows. It is suggested that operators attach importance to the primiparous cow prepartum BCS and keep it stable through prepartum management adjustments, since an ideal BCS at calving reduces the incidence of postpartum disease. Abstract This is a prospective observational study that evaluates the effects of body condition score (BCS) changes in primiparous Holstein cows during peripartum on their NEFA and BHBA concentrations, hormone levels, postpartum health, and production performance. The cows under study (n = 213) were assessed to determine their BCS (5-point scale; 0.25-point increment) once a week during the whole peripartum by the same researchers; backfat was used for corrections. Blood samples were collected 21 and 7 days before calving and 7, 21, and 35 days after calving, and were assayed for NEFA, BHBA, growth hormone (GH), insulin, leptin, and adiponectin concentrations. The incidence of disease and milk yield were recorded until 84 days after calving. Cows were classified according to their BCS changes during peripartum as follows: Those that gained BCS (G; ΔBCS ≥ 0.25), maintained BCS (M; ΔBCS = 0–0.25), or lost BCS (L; ΔBCS ≥ 0.5). The BCS at −21 days and at 7, 14, and 21 days were different (p < 0.01), but trended toward uniformity in all groups at calving. The L group had higher NEFA and BHBA concentrations and hormone levels (p < 0.01) than the M and G groups at 21 and 35 days after calving, and had a higher incidence of uterine and metabolic diseases; however, there were no differences in production performance between the various groups. In conclusion, a lower BCS in primiparous cows during peripartum influences the NEFA and BHBA concentrations, hormone levels, and occurrence of health problems postpartum. The postpartum effects of BCS changes appear prior to calving.
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Daros RR, Eriksson HK, Weary DM, von Keyserlingk MAG. The relationship between transition period diseases and lameness, feeding time, and body condition during the dry period. J Dairy Sci 2019; 103:649-665. [PMID: 31704020 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this longitudinal study, we tested the hypothesis that cows that are lame around dry-off are at increased risk of transition diseases (TD), including metritis, subclinical ketosis (SCK), retained fetal membranes, hypocalcemia, or displaced abomasum. We also hypothesized that the relationship between lameness and TD would be mediated through reduced feeding time. We enrolled 461 cows at 9 wk before their expected calving date on 6 commercial freestall farms in the lower Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada. Cows were gait-scored weekly using a scale of 1 to 5. Lameness status was classified based on consecutive gait scores as lame (2 consecutive gait scores = 3 or 1 score ≥4) or sound (2 consecutive gait scores ≤2). Lameness status was summarized as (1) lameness at dry-off (sound or lame); (2) lameness group (always sound = sound on all visits, chronically lame = lame on all visits, and other = changed from sound to lame or vice versa); and (3) proportion of weeks lame during the dry period. Body condition scores were recorded at dry-off and at calving and collectively used to calculate change in body condition for each cow. A subsample of cows (n = 159) was evaluated for feeding time once a week during the dry period. All cows were evaluated for SCK (positive = β-hydroxybutyrate ≥1.2 mmol/L) and metritis (positive = foul smell, red/brown watery vaginal discharge) every 3 to 4 d between d 3 and 17 after calving. We retrieved data on treatment of retained fetal membranes, hypocalcemia, and displaced abomasum during the first 17 d after calving, cow parity, and milk production in the previous lactation from farm records. We created a binary variable, TD (any of SCK, metritis, retained fetal membranes, hypocalcemia, or displaced abomasum), to differentiate between healthy cows and cows that developed TD. Lameness at dry-off was associated with the occurrence of metritis and TD, but not with SCK. Cows that were chronically lame and cows that had an increased proportion of weeks lame during the dry period had higher occurrence of metritis and TD. Lameness was also associated with reduced feeding time, which in turn was associated with increased likelihood of SCK and TD, but not with metritis. Lameness was not associated with change in body condition; however, cows that lost body condition score during the dry period had increased odds of developing SCK, metritis, and TD. Change in body condition was highly associated with body condition score at dry-off. These results suggest that association between lameness and TD is partially mediated through reduced feeding time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruan R Daros
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Hanna K Eriksson
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Marina A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Zhao W, Chen X, Xiao J, Chen XH, Zhang XF, Wang T, Zhen YG, Qin GX. Prepartum body condition score affects milk yield, lipid metabolism, and oxidation status of Holstein cows. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2019; 32:1889-1896. [PMID: 31010972 PMCID: PMC6819678 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.18.0817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the effects of prepartum body condition score (BCS) on the milk yield, lipid metabolism, and oxidative status of Holstein cows. Methods A total of 112 multiparous Holstein cows were divided into 4 groups according to the BCS at 21 days before calving: medium BCS (3.0~3.25, MBCS), high BCS (3.5~3.75, HBCS), higher BCS (4.0~4.25, HerBCS), and highest BCS (4.5~5.0, HestBCS). Blood samples were collected on 21, 14, and 7 days before calving (precalving), on the calving day (calving), and on 7, 14, and 21 days after calving (postcalving). The indices of lipid metabolism and oxidative status were analyzed using bovine-specific ELISA kit. Colostrum were taken after calving and analyzed by a refractometer and milk analyzer. The individual milk yield was recorded every 3 days. Results The density and levels of immune globulin and lactoprotein of colostrum from Holstein cows in the HestBCS group were the highest (p<0.05). These animals not only had the highest (p<0.05) levels of serum non-esterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate, but also had the highest (p<0.05) levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, vitamin A, and vitamin E. In addition, greater (p<0.05) BCS loss was observed in the HestBCS cows. Conclusion This study demonstrates that the milk yield, lipid metabolism, and oxidative status of Holstein cows are related to prepartum BCS and BCS loss during the transition period. HestBCS cows are more sensitive to oxidative stress and suffer greater loss of BCS after calving, whereas the MBCS animals had better milk yield performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xue Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xiao Hui Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Xue Feng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Tao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Yu Guo Zhen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,JLAU-Borui Dairy Science and Technology R&D Centre of Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Gui Xin Qin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China.,Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science of Jilin Province, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
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Song X, Bokkers EAM, van Mourik S, Groot Koerkamp PWG, van der Tol PPJ. Automated body condition scoring of dairy cows using 3-dimensional feature extraction from multiple body regions. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:4294-4308. [PMID: 30879819 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Machine vision technology has been used in automated body condition score (BCS) classification of dairy cows. The current vision-based classifications use information acquired from a limited number of body regions of the cow. Our study aimed to improve automated BCS classification by including multiple body condition-related features extracted from 3 viewpoints in 8 body regions. The data set of this study included 44 lactating cows with their BCS evenly distributed over the scale of BCS from 1.5 to 4.5 units. The body images of these cows were recorded over 2 consecutive days using 3-dimensional cameras positioned to view the cow from the top, right side, and rear. Each image was automatically processed to identify anatomical landmarks on the body surface. Around these anatomical landmarks, the bony prominences and body surface depressions were quantified to describe 8 body condition-related features. A manual BCS of each cow was independently assigned by 2 trained assessors using the same predefined protocol. With the extracted features as inputs and manual BCS as the reference, we built a nearest-neighbor classification model to classify BCS and obtained an overall classification sensitivity of 0.72 using a 10-fold cross-validation. We conclude that the sensitivity of automated BCS classification has been improved by expanding the selection of body condition-related features extracted from multiple body regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Song
- Farm Technology Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 16, Wageningen, 6700 AA, the Netherlands; Sensors and Data Analysis Department, Lely Innovation, Cornelis van der Lelylaan 1, Maassluis, 3147 PB, the Netherlands.
| | - E A M Bokkers
- Animal Production Systems Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 338, Wageningen, 6700 AH, the Netherlands
| | - S van Mourik
- Farm Technology Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 16, Wageningen, 6700 AA, the Netherlands
| | - P W G Groot Koerkamp
- Farm Technology Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 16, Wageningen, 6700 AA, the Netherlands
| | - P P J van der Tol
- Farm Technology Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 16, Wageningen, 6700 AA, the Netherlands; Sensors and Data Analysis Department, Lely Innovation, Cornelis van der Lelylaan 1, Maassluis, 3147 PB, the Netherlands
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De Koster J, Strieder-Barboza C, de Souza J, Lock AL, Contreras GA. Short communication: Effects of body fat mobilization on macrophage infiltration in adipose tissue of early lactation dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:7608-7613. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-14318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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