Biomedical subjects

H Kindahl

Publications and source records attributed to H Kindahl.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

PubMed2003

Increased plasma concentrations of vasopressin, oxytocin, cortisol and the prostaglandin F2alpha metabolite during labour in the dog.

AIM: This study investigated if the plasma vasopressin concentration increases during labour in the dog and whether the change in vasopressin correlates with that of oxytocin, 15-ketodihydro-PGF2alpha and cortisol. METHODS: Five beagle dogs each delivered three to seven puppies. Blood samples were taken from a catheter inserted into the cephalic vein during labour and by venepuncture during the other periods. RESULTS: Vasopressin concentration increased from 2 +/- 0 pmol L-1 (anoestrus) to 26 +/- 11 pmol L-1 at the birth of the first puppy, remained high at the birth of the second puppy and then decreased. Oxytocin increased from 63 +/- 5 pmol L-1 (anoestrus) to 166 +/- 19 pmol L-1 at the birth of the first puppy and remained elevated throughout labour. The PGF2alpha metabolite concentration increased from 0.2 +/- 0.0 nmol L-1 (anoestrus) to 66 +/- 17 nmol L-1 at the birth of the first puppy and remained elevated 1 h after the completion of parturition. The cortisol concentration increased from 49 +/- 9 nmol L-1 (anoestrus) to 242 +/- 35 nmol L-1 at the birth of the first puppy, remained high during the birth of the second puppy and then declined. CONCLUSIONS: The plasma level of vasopressin was strongly correlated with that of cortisol but less with that of the PGF2alpha metabolite, and not significantly with the concentration of oxytocin. This indicates that the four hormones play different roles during labour in the dog.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

The acute phase response in calves experimentally infected with bovine viral diarrhoea virus and/or Mannheimia haemolytica.

The aim of this investigation was to study differences and similarities in the acute phase response of calves experimentally infected in the respiratory tract with either bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) or Mannheima haemolytica (Mh), or with a combination of both (BVDV/Mh). A non-inoculated control group was also included. The acute phase response was measured by serum or plasma concentrations of the acute phase proteins (APPs) haptoglobin, serum amyloid A (SAA) and fibrinogen, and of cortisol, prostaglandin F2alpha-metabolite and interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) activity. Clinical symptoms were also recorded and were most severe in the BVDV/Mh group. The symptoms were mild to moderate in the BVDV group, while none, or very mild symptoms were observed in the Mh group. In all inoculated groups, a significant acute phase response was observed, with elevated values of haptoglobin, SAA and fibrinogen, while the control group remained unaffected throughout the study. In general, the magnitude of the response was similar, but the duration of elevated concentrations of APPs was significantly longer in the BVDV/Mh group than in the BVDV group, reflecting the duration of the clinical symptoms. However, in the single infection groups, the APP response and the clinical symptoms were not correlated. The IFN-alpha activity increased in all BVDV-inoculated animals, but no response in cortisol and PGF2alpha-metabolite concentrations was observed after infection. Basal levels of serum concentrations of haptoglobin, SAA and fibrinogen were established and may be used for evaluating calf health in herds. The duration of elevated haptoglobin, SAA and fibrinogen values did not differ significantly within groups indicating that their value as indicator of disease is equal.

Acute-Phase Reaction↗

PubMed2003

Cervical dilatation related to uterine electromyographic activity and endocrinological changes during prostaglandin F(2alpha)-induced parturition in cows.

The temporal relationship between changes in cervical dilatation, uterine electromyographic (EMG) activity, and maternal plasma concentrations of estradiol 17beta (E(2)), progesterone (P(4)), and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin-F(2alpha) (PGFM), was investigated in six parturient cows. Calving was induced with a single injection of a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PG) on Day 274 of gestation. Cervical dilatation was measured continuously by measuring the transit time between two implanted ultrasound crystals while at the same time uterine EMG activity was measured through two silver electrodes sutured on the myometrial surface until the expulsive stage of calving had been reached. In blood samples collected at 4-h intervals, starting at the moment of PG injection, the mean plasma E(2) concentration gradually increased and was significantly elevated at 28 h after PG injection. At 4 h after PG treatment, the mean P(4) concentration had dropped significantly and continued to decrease until a value of around 1 ng/ml was reached, where it stayed until the onset of expulsion. Mean plasma PGFM concentrations increased steadily after PG injection, reaching significantly elevated concentrations at 20 h after treatment. In the five cows that delivered calves in anterior positions, uterine EMG activity, expressed as root mean square (RMS in microV), started to increase at a mean interval (+/- SD) of 13.1 +/- 3.7 h following PG treatment. The increase in EMG activity was significantly correlated with changes in plasma PGFM concentrations. In these cows, dilatation of the caudal cervix started after a mean (+/- SD) interval of 28.5 +/- 1.5 h following PG treatment and dilatation progressed at a mean (+/- SD) rate of 2.25 +/- 0.24 cm/h. In one cow with a calf in the posterior position, uterine EMG activity and dilatation started at 15.8 h and 31.8 h, respectively, after induction of calving. We conclude that a predictable sequence of physiological changes occurs around induction of calving, which allows specific timing of future studies on cellular and biochemical changes within the cervix during parturition.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

Assessment of early postpartum reproductive performance in two high producing Estonian dairy herds.

Early postpartum (6 weeks) ovarian activity, hormonal profiles, uterine involution, uterine infections, serum electrolytes, glucose, milk acetoacetate and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were studied in 2 Estonian high producing dairy herd with annual milk production of 7688 (Farm A) and 9425 (Farm B). From each farm 10 cows, with normal calving performance were used. Blood samples for the hormonal (PGF2alpha-metabolite, progesterone) analyses were withdrawn. On day 25 PP blood serum samples were taken for the evaluation of metabolic/electrolyte status. On the same day estimation of milk acetoacetate values was done. The ultrasound (US) was started on day 7 PP and was performed every 3rd day until the end of experiment. Uterine content, follicular activity and sizes of the largest follicle and corpus luteum were monitored and measured. Vaginal discharge and uterine tone were recorded during the rectal palpation. Each animal in the study was sampled for bacteriological examination using endometrial biopsies once a week. Two types of PGF2alpha-metabolite patterns were detected: elevated levels during 14 days PP, then decline to the basal level and then a second small elevation at the time of final elimination of the bacteria from the uterus: or elevated levels during first 7 days PP, then decline to the basal level and a second small elevation before the final elimination of bacteria. Endometritis was diagnosed in 5 cows in farm A and in 3 cows in farm B respectively. In farm A, 5 cows out of 10 ovulated during experimental period and in 1 cow cystic ovaries were found. In farm B, 3 cows out of 10 ovulated. In 3 cows cystic ovaries were found. Altogether 40% of cows had their first ovulation during the experimental period. Three cows in farm A and 5 cows in farm B were totally bacteria negative during the experimental period. The most frequent bacteria found were A. pyogenes, Streptococcus spp., E. coli., F. necrophorum and Bacteroides spp. The highest incidence of bacteriological species was found during the first 3 weeks in both farms. All animals were free from bacteria after 5th week PP in farm A and after 4th week in farm B respectively. Serum electrolytes and glucose levels were found to be within the reference limits for the cows in both farms. No significant difference was found between farms (p > 0.05). Low phosphorus levels were found in both farms. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was found in BUN levels between farms. In both farms milk acetoacetate values were staying within the reference range given for the used test (< 100 micromol/l). The uterine involution and bacterial elimination in the investigated cows could consider as normal but more profound metabolic studies could be needed to find reasons for later resumption of ovarian activity. Some recommendations to changing feeding regimes and strategies should also be given.

Animals↗

PubMed2003

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic effects of flunixin after intravenous, intramuscular and oral administration to dairy goats.

The pharmacokinetics and the prostaglandin (PG) synthesis inhibiting effect of flunixin were determined in 6 Norwegian dairy goats. The dose was 2.2 mg/kg body weight administered by intravenous (i.v.). intramuscular (i.m.) and oral (p.o.) routes using a cross-over design. Plasma flunixin content was analysed by use of liquid chromatography and the PG synthesis was evaluated by measuring plasma 15-ketodihydro-PGF2alpha by a radioimmuno-assay. Results are presented as median (range). The elimination half-lives (t(1/2) x lambda) were 3.6 (2.0-5.0), 3.4 (2.6-6.8) and 4.3 (3.4-6.1) h for i.v., i.m. and p.o. administration, respectively. Volume of distribution at steady state (Vd(ss)) was 0.35 (0.23-0.4 1) L/kg and clearance (CL), 110 (60-160) mL/h/kg. The plasma concentrations after oral administration showed a double-peak phenomenon with the two peaks occurring at 0.37 (0.25-1) and 3.5 (2.5-5.0) h, respectively. Both peaks were in the same order of magnitude. Bioavailability was 79 (53-112) and 58 (35%-120)% for i.m. and p.o. administration, respectively. 15-Ketodihydro-PGF2, plasma concentrations decreased after flunixin administration independent of the route of administration.

Administration, Oral↗

PubMed2003

Endocrine measurements and calving performance of Swedish red and white and Swedish Holstein dairy cattle with special respect to stillbirth.

During 3 consecutive calving seasons, calving performance, placental characteristics and endocrine profiles of total 98 pregnancies of late pregnant Swedish Red and White (SRB) and Swedish Holstein (SLB) dairy heifers and cows, were investigated. Ninety-four singleton pregnancies and 4 sets of twins were recorded. In animals with singleton pregnancy, 8 stillbirths, 7 weak calves, 3 premature parturitions and 1 abortion were registered. In the SLB heifers, 19% of stillbirth (5/26) were observed, while 5% (2/42) were noted for the SRB heifers. One stillborn calf derived from the SRB cows and none was found from the SLB cows. In the heifers and cows delivering a normal living calf with unassisted parturition, the placentome thickness monitored by ultrasonography was constant towards the end of pregnancy. The numbers of foetal cotyledons varied individually between animals but in total, fewer cotyledons were found in the foetal membranes of the SRB animals than in the SLB animals (69 +/- 19) vs. (88 +/- 29) (p < 0.05). No morphological and numerical differences of the placentome thickness in animals delivering a stillborn or weak calf, compared to animals delivering a normal living calf, could be observed. In animals with unassisted parturition and without birth complications, the levels of progesterone (P4), PGF2alpha metabolite (PG-metabolite), cortisol, oestrone sulphate (E1SO4) and pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were not different by breeds and parities. In animals carrying stillbirth, higher levels of E1SO4 were found in 3 SRB animals and 1 SLB heifer, whereas lower levels of E1SO4 were recorded in 3 SLB heifers during the last week of pregnancy, compared to the profiles found in animals with unassisted parturition. Additionally, the levels of PAGs remained low and constant in 1 SRB cow (delivering a stillborn calf), 1 SRB heifer (giving birth prematurely), 4 animals (carrying twins) and 1 aborting SRB cow. Our results show a very high rate of stillbirth in especially SLB heifers and deviating profiles of E1SO4 and PAGs in animals with impaired parturition were recorded.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Postovulatory effect of repeated administration of prostaglandin F2alpha on the endocrine status, ova transport, binding of accessory spermatozoa to the zona pellucida and embryo development of recently ovulated sows.

We investigated the postovulatory effect of repeated administration of prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) on the endocrine status, ova transport, binding of accessory spermatozoa to the zona pellucida (ZP) and embryo development of recently ovulated sows. We used altogether 10 Swedish crossbred (Landrace x Yorkshire) multiparous sows. The treatment group (P-group) was administered 1 mg of PGF2alpha intravenously every 6 h via an indwelling jugular cannula, commencing 4-8 h after ovulation was detected in the second estrus after weaning. All sows were inseminated once and blood was sampled until the end of the experimental period. After slaughter, we immediately recovered the reproductive tracts and divided them into three equal isthmic segments (IST1, IST2 and IST3) and a third of the uterine horn from the utero-tubal-junction (UTJ), and we flushed each one with PBS for ova recovery. We immediately stained the ova and examined them under epi-fluorescence illumination. We found the highest proportion of ova in the P-group in IST1 (41.5%), while we found the highest proportion in the C-group in the uterus (40.7%). A total of 68.7% of ova in the P-group had more than 50 accessory spermatozoa attached to the ZP, compared with 36.7% in the C-group sows. A total of 77% of ova had more than three blastomeres in the P-group, compared with 73% in the C-group. PGF2alpha metabolite and cortisol levels were elevated (P < 0.05) following every PGF2alpha administration. Despite peaks, we saw no changes (P > 0.05) in progesterone levels between the P-group and the C-group. We saw no differences (P > 0.05) in estradiol-17beta levels between the P-group and the C-group. We concluded that PGF2alpha stimulates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, as evidenced by the elevation of cortisol and progesterone but not estradiol-17beta. Furthermore, repeated PGF2alpha administration might be associated with a delayed ova transport and an increased number of accessory spermatozoa bound to the ZP. However, the effect of PGF2alpha on embryo development is unclear.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Hormonal measurements in late pregnancy and parturition in dairy cows--possible tools to monitor foetal well being.

Three dairy heifers (A, B and C) were induced to parturition with two prostaglandin (PG) F(2alpha) injections on day 268 and 269 of pregnancy. Signs of approaching parturition were carefully observed. The following parameters were registered: degrees of calving difficulty, date and time of parturition, calf's birth weight and calf's sex. Body temperature was measured and blood samples were taken every 3 h 3 days before the first PGF(2alpha) injection until 3 days after parturition. The plasma concentrations of the PGF(2alpha) metabolite, progesterone, cortisol, oestrone sulphate and pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were analysed. Heifers A, B and C delivered 48, 51 and 57 h after the first PGF(2alpha) injection, respectively. Heifer A delivered without any signs of calving difficulty, whereas, the parturition was considered to be slight and moderate difficulty occurred in the delivery of heifers B and C, respectively. The calf of heifer C, without any abnormal gross-evidences, was stillborn. All animals had retained foetal membranes. A slight increase of the PGF(2alpha) metabolite at the time of parturition was found only in heifer C, whereas the levels dramatically increased in all animals 15-24 h after parturition. At the same time, progesterone levels decreased within 3 h after the first PGF(2alpha) injection (P < 0.05) and reached 0.8, 2.7 and 12.4 nmol/l at the time of parturition in heifers A, B and C, respectively. High release of cortisol at the time of parturition was seen in heifer C. Rising levels of oestrone sulphate around the time of parturition were recorded in all heifers, whereas, increasing levels of PAGs were recorded only in heifer A. In conclusion, the patterns of the PGF(2alpha) metabolite, cortisol, progesterone and PAGs were changed in the cases of calving difficulty and stillbirth after PGF(2alpha)-induction of parturition. However, the relationship between oestrone sulphate and PAGs and the status of foetal well being prior to parturition require further elucidation.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Effect of repeated ACTH-stimulation on early embryonic development and hormonal profiles in sows.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of adrenal stimulation by synthetic adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) on the first 2 days of pregnancy in 22 multiparous sows. The experiment was performed during the second oestrus after weaning and the sows were divided into one control (C-group) and one experiment group (E-group). To determine the time of ovulation, transrectal ultrasonographic examination was performed. E-group sows were treated repeatedly with 0.1 mg/kg bodyweight of synthetic ACTH (tetracosactide) i.v. 4-8h after ovulation and continuing every 6h, until slaughter. Blood samples were collected every second hour from about 12h before expected ovulation until slaughter and were analyzed for cortisol, prostaglandin F(2 alpha) -metabolite, and progesterone (P(4)). All sows were slaughtered approximately 48 h after ovulation and the isthmic part of the oviduct was divided into three equally long segments and flushed separately with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). The uterine horns were also flushed with PBS. The embryos of the E-group sows tended (P=0.056) to have a lower cleavage rate than the embryos of the C-group sows but there was no difference between groups in oviductal transport rate of the embryos. In the E-group, significantly (P<0.05) more sows had only embryos with <20 spermatozoa attached to the ZP compared with the C-group. The plasma concentration of cortisol was significantly higher (P<0.0001) in the E-group sows during the time of treatment while the baseline level of prostaglandin F(2 alpha) -metabolite was significantly lower. The baseline level of progesterone increased in both groups after ovulation but there was no significant difference between the groups. Repeated ACTH-stimulation (1) had no effect on the oviductal transport rate of the embryos, (2) had a negative effect on the embryo development, (3) and caused a changed endocrine profile that might have changed oviductal milieu affecting embryo development.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone↗

PubMed2002

Endocrine changes in late bovine pregnancy with special emphasis on fetal well-being.

During late bovine pregnancy, several hormones are involved to maintain and develop a successful result with a live calf. These hormones are e.g., progesterone, high levels during the whole pregnancy period, originating from the corpus luteum, maternal adrenals and placenta. Oestrone sulphate, oestrone in its conjugated form, shows elevated levels from about mid-pregnancy until the third stage of parturition (expelling of the fetal membranes). For the onset of normal parturition and the parturition process as such, a change from progesterone to oestrone synthesis is crucial. The increasing levels of oestrone are time-related to an increased synthesis of prostaglandin F(2alpha) (reflected as elevated levels of 15-ketodihydro-PGF(2alpha)) causing prepartal luteolysis and several hormones are then involved in the labour process such as prostaglandin F(2alpha), cortisol and oxytocin. Cortisol might also be an indicator of stressful events for the dam. Levels of pregnancy associated glycoproteins (PAGs), originating from the trophoblastic binucleate cells, are increasing during the last 10 days prior to parturition. All the mentioned hormones have certain functions during pregnancy, more or less understood. However, could deviations from the expected profiles during late bovine pregnancy indicate impaired fetal well-being or be of importance for reproductive performance during the postpartum period? Abortions, stillbirths or dystocia are situations where endocrine profiles might predict the status of the calf. There are two possible approaches to study the endocrine changes in late pregnancy-to follow spontaneous cases of normal or impaired pregnancies or to experimentally disturb the gestation or induce parturition. We have in one study followed pregnant animals to depict reproductive disturbances, both animals with expected normal parturitions and animals where the sire of the calf has given rise to a high incidence of stillborn calves. The number of stillborn calves or dystocia has been small and so far it has not been possible to obtain a clear picture of the usefulness of endocrine parameters to follow fetal well being, but some of the hormonal parameters show a deviating profile. In a small group of animals with induced parturition (PGF(2alpha)), two out of three had parturition problems and one of these animals had a stillborn calf. All three animals had retained fetal membranes. It was possible to demonstrate a deviating endocrine profile in the cow having the stillborn calf in the sense of higher levels of progesterone, cortisol and 15-ketodihydro-PGF(2alpha) at the time of parturition. In both animals with dystocia the levels of oestrone sulphate after parturition were more sustained. Increasing and high levels of PAGs were only demonstrated in the animal with a normal parturition. These studies are ongoing, aiming at finding changes in endocrine profiles related to impaired pregnancies.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Correlations among body temperature, plasma progesterone, cortisol and prostaglandin F2alpha of the periparturient bitch.

The results of this study suggest that, besides the irrelevant role of body temperature measurement to predict the impending parturition in the bitch, progesterone and 15-ketodihydroprostaglandin F2alpha plasma level records could be more suitable to detect the approaching whelping in this species. More interesting was the statistically significant substantial increase in body temperature beginning 12 h after the onset of parturition. Therefore, if any significant increase in body temperature is recorded at the end of pregnancy without the beginning of the expulsion of fetuses, it could indicate problems at parturition. In this study, cortisol levels increased significantly at the time of delivery and remained high 12 h after the beginning of parturition, decreasing within 36 h after the onset of whelping. 15-ketodihydro-prostaglandin F2alpha levels increased significantly 24 h before parturition and again at the onset of whelping. Progesterone levels decreased significantly, starting 24 h before the onset of whelping and remained low after delivery.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Endocrine, metabolic and clinical effects of intravenous endotoxin injection after pre-treatment with meloxicam in heifers.

Meloxicam (M), a non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug for use in animals, reduces prostaglandin (PG) synthesis by inhibiting cyclooxygenases-1 and -2. The aim of this study was to evaluate M's capability to prevent the inflammatory response elicited by endotoxin (ET). Furthermore, we wanted to evaluate a possible effect of M on delta13-reductase and 15-hydroxy prostanoate dehydrogenase, enzymes responsible for the initial metabolism of PGF2alpha. Four heifers acting as their own controls were used in the study. The heifers received an i.v. injection of either saline (S) or M (0.5 mg/kg) at 1.5 h before an i.v. injection of ET (50 ng/kg b.w. i.v.). The trial lasted 57 h after ET injection and blood samples were withdrawn for analyses of 15-ketodihydro-PGF2alpha (PG metabolite), cortisol, white blood cells (WBC), Fe, Zn and Ca. Clinical examinations were performed throughout the trial. In the S + ET trial, ET injection elicited a rapid increase of the PG metabolite, a prolonged cortisol release and reduced levels of WBC, Fe, Zn and Ca. General appearance and body temperature were affected. In the M + ET trial the PG release was totally abolished, the cortisol release was reduced and the clinical effect was milder, also effects on Fe, Zn and Ca were milder in the M + ET trial, but M did not prevent the pyrogenic effect of ET. In the next two trials, we injected PGF2alpha (500 ng/kg i.v.) with and without M pre-treatment. After PGF2alpha injection, plasma samples were collected for measurement of the PG metabolite. M had no effect on PGF2alpha metabolism. In conclusion, M effectively suppresses several of the inflammatory reactions seen after ET injections and has no major influence on the PGF2alpha metabolism.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

Postovulatory effect of intravenous administration of lipopolysaccharide (E. coli, O55:B5) on the contractile activity of the oviduct, ova transport, binding of accessory spermatozoa to the zona pellucida and embryo development in sows.

The effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (E. coli, O55:B5), administered 18 h after ovulation in the second oestrus after weaning, on the contractile activity of the oviduct, ova transport, sperm binding to zona pellucida (ZP) and embryo development, was studied in 14 Swedish crossbred (Landrace Yorkshire) multiparous sows. The endotoxin group (E-group) sows were administered with 300 ng/kg of LPS while the control group (C-group) sows were administered with 5 ml of saline i.v. via an indwelling jugular cannula. Immediately after evidence of standing oestrus, a Millar pressure transducer was placed intraluminally about 3 cm into the mid-isthmus, via laparotomy. Pressure recordings of the oviduct were collected from all conscious sows until slaughter. After slaughter, the genital tract opposite to the side with the transducer was retrieved, and three equal isthmic segments and the first third of the uterine horn part adjacent to the utero-tubal-junction (UTJ) were flushed separately to recover the ova. The intervals (mean+/-SD) from ovulation to slaughter (OS) and insemination to ovulation (IO) were not different between the E-group (44.5 +/- 5.7 h; 13.3 +/- 6.5 h) and the C-group (42.7 +/- 5.9 h; 14.8 +/- 4.1 h), respectively. Ova recovery rate (RR) in the E-group (80.2 +/- 22.9%) did not differ from that in the C-group (85.2 +/- 4.5%). The frequency distribution of ova recovered in the different segments did not significantly (p > 0.05) differ between the groups. The E-group showed higher cleavage rate than controls. A higher proportion of spermatozoa bound to the ZP was also found in the E-group compared with controls. The isthmic intraluminal pressure slightly increased (p = 0.07) 18 h after ovulation and immediately following LPS in the E-group, compared with the C-group. The frequencies of phasic pressure fluctuations were significantly (p < 0.05) lower at 30 and 38 h after ovulation in the E- than in the C-group. It can be concluded from the present study that a single i.v. administration of LPS (300 ng/kg body weight) to sows, 18 h after ovulation might be associated with changes in isthmic pressure and the frequency of phasic pressure fluctuations, increased numbers of spermatozoa attached to the ZP and an enhanced embryo development but not with ova transport rates.

Animals↗

PubMed2002

15-Ketodihydro-PGF(2 alpha), progesterone and uterine involution in primiparous cows with induced retained placenta and post-partal endometritis treated with oxytetracycline and flunixin.

Retention of the foetal membranes (RFM) and post-partal endometritis are common problems in dairy cows. Among other things, the disease is characterized by a bacterial endometritis with aerobic as well as anaerobic bacteria. From an endocrine perspective, cows with RFM have high levels of 15-ketodihydro-PGF(2 alpha) (PG-metabolite) immediately after parturition but these levels fall rapidly within 2 weeks post-partum (early PG-metabolite elevation). After this decline, the PG-metabolite levels increase again and the levels (at this time of a lower magnitude) remain elevated during the period of uterine infection (late PG-metabolite elevation). The aim of this study was to investigate the PG-metabolite profiles in cows with retained placenta and post-partal endometritis treated with the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor flunixin (F), either alone or in combination with oxytetracycline (T). The study was accomplished over 2 years with 12 primiparous cows in each experiment. As a model for RFM, preterm parturition was induced in late-pregnant heifers by injecting PGF(2 alpha) (25 mg i.m) twice with a 24 h interval. In each experiment, the cows were divided into four groups and treated with either T (10 mg/kg b.w. i.m. once daily), F (2.2 mg/kg b.w. p.o. twice per day), a combination of T and F (dosage, as above), or conservatively (0). The treatment periods lasted from day 11 to day 14 post-partum (pp) in experiment 1 (after placental shedding, groups T1, F1, TF1 and 0) and from day 3 to day 6 pp in experiment 2 (before placental shedding, groups T2, F2, TF2 and 0). Jugular vein blood samples were collected for analyses of PG-metabolite and flunixin. Uterine biopsies were collected twice weekly for investigation of endometrial microbiology. Rectal palpation and ultrasonographic examinations were performed three times per week for investigations of uterine and cervical involution and ovarian activity. No attempts were made to remove the placentas manually. The experiment lasted until day 56 pp. The induction of parturition was successful in all heifers and 22 of 24 animals had RFM. All RFM cows had bacterial endometritis, based on bacteriological examinations. Flunixin treatment (F1, TF1, F2 and TF2) suppressed PG-metabolite levels significantly (p=0.006) during the period of treatment in both experiments. However, the early flunixin treatment only suppressed PG synthesis partially. Late oxytetracycline treatment (T1) did not influence the PG-metabolite levels but oxytetracycline treatment (T2 and TF2) before placental shedding significantly altered the kinetics of the early PG-metabolite elevation compared with other treatments. Late PG-metabolite elevation was significantly correlated to duration of uterine infection and cervical involution. In conclusion, flunixin treatment of cows with retained placenta either before or after placental shedding suppresses prostaglandin synthesis. However, early treatment, when the release of prostaglandins is high, might need more intensive treatment in order to prevent the PG synthesis effectively. Oxytetracycline treatment during the period immediately after parturition before placental shedding might influence the PG-metabolite profile and suggests a bacteriological contribution to the high levels of PG-metabolite seen during the first 2 weeks pp in cows with retained placenta. In this study, a correlation between prostaglandin release, the final cervical involution and the end of infection was found. This suggests a link between uterine endocrinology, bacteriology and involution in cows with retained placenta.

Animals↗

PubMed2001

Endometrial mRNA expression of oestrogen receptor alpha, progesterone receptor and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) throughout the bovine oestrous cycle.

This study characterized endometrial expression of mRNAs of oestrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PR) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) during the oestrous cycle. Seven Holstein heifers that showed standing oestrus on the same day (day 0) were selected and blood samples for oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) determinations by RIA were taken daily until day 23. Endometrial samples were taken by transcervical biopsies on days 0, 5, 12 and 19 for mRNA determination by solution hybridization. The highest endometrial mRNA levels of ERalpha and PR were observed at oestrus and a decline was observed already at day 5, which then decreased progressively at the end of the luteal phase. IGF-I mRNA levels were higher at day 0 and 5 than at day 12. At day 19, mRNA levels of ERalpha, PR and IGF-I were the lowest in heifers that were at the end of their luteal phase (n=4), but were high again in heifers which P4 levels were basal (n=3). The temporal changes in mRNA endometrial expression of ERalpha, PR and IGF-I and their relation to the changes in steroid concentrations during the bovine oestrus cycle are described.

Animals↗

PubMed2001

Both ovarian fluid and female urine increase sex steroid hormone levels in mature Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) male parr.

We compared the ability of urine and ovarian fluid from female Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) to stimulate increase in plasma concentrations of sex steroid hormones in mature conspecific male parr (priming effect of the stimuli). We also tested the hypothesis that prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) may act as a priming pheromone in the tested stimulants. Individual males of salmon parr were exposed to female urine, ovarian fluid, urine-ovarian fluid mix, or PGF2alpha. Plasma concentrations of the sex steroids of 17,20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17,20beta-P) were higher in males exposed to urine, ovarian fluids, and PGF2alpha compared to control males. PGF2alpha and a mixture of urine and ovarian fluid also gave increased concentrations of 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT). Concentrations of PGF2alpha were higher in ovarian fluids than in urine. A behavior test with mature male parr in a fluviarium showed neither attraction to nor avoidance of 0.1 nM PGF2alpha, but plasma levels of 17,20beta-P were significantly higher in exposed males compared to controls.

Animals↗

PubMed2001

Sows intramammarily inoculated with Escherichia coli influence of time of infection, hormone concentrations and leucocyte numbers on development of disease.

The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence the development of disease in sows inoculated with Escherichia coli in the mammary gland. Ten cross-bred primiparous sows were intramammarily inoculated with living E. coli bacteria at different time points before parturition: seven sows within 48 h before parturition and three sows approximately 96 h before parturition. Before and after inoculation, blood samples and mammary gland biopsy specimens were collected and clinical observations were made. All seven sows inoculated close to parturition developed a rectal temperature of >39.5 degrees C during the first 48 h post-partum and two of them also showed other signs of clinical disease. In the sows inoculated 4 days before parturition, the rectal temperature never exceeded 39.5 degrees C during the first 48 h post-partum and none of them showed any other sign of clinical discase. There was a tendency (P < 0.1) that histological signs of mastitis were more frequent in the sows inoculated close to parturition. There were no overall differences between the two groups of sows in plasma concentrations of cortisol, oestradiol-17beta and 15-ketodihydro-PGF2alpha before inoculation. Before inoculation, the number of neutrophils in the blood was overall higher (P < 0.05) in the group of sows that were inoculated close to parturition. In comparison, the number of lymphocytes before inoculation had a tendency (P < 0.1) to be lower in that group. The data suggest that the time of infection of the mammary gland relative to parturition and the number of circulating neutrophils at the time of infection influence the development of chinical coliform mastitis in the sow.

Animals↗

PubMed2001

Clinical and bacteriological aspects on the use of oxytetracycline and flunixin in primiparous cows with induced retained placenta and post-partal endometritis.

Retention of the fetal membranes and post-partal endometritis (RFM) are common problems in dairy cows. Treatment often includes manual removal of the placenta in combination with antibiotic treatment. Earlier studies have shown that cows with endometritis post-partum have a strong tendency to recover spontaneously. The present study focused on treatments of post-partal endometritis with the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, flunixin (F) either alone or combined with oxytetracycline (T). The study was conducted in two experiments, using 12 primiparous cows in each. As a model for RFM, premature parturition was induced in late pregnant heifers by injecting PGF2alpha (25 mg i.m.) twice with a 24 h interval. In each experiment the cows were set into four groups and treated with either T (10 mg/kg BW i.m. once daily), F (2.2 mg/kg BW p.o. twice daily), a combination of T and F (dosage, as above) or conservatively (group 0, no drugs). The treatment periods lasted from days 11-14 post-partum in experiment I (groups T1, F1, TF1 and 0) and from days 3-6 post-partum in experiment 2 (groups T2, F2, TF2 and 0). Jugular vein blood samples were collected for analyses of flunixin and total white blood cells. Uterine biopsies were collected twice weekly for investigation of endometrial microbiology. Rectal palpation and ultrasonographic examinations were performed three times weekly for investigations of uterine involution and ovarian activity. No attempts were made to remove the placentas manually. The experiment lasted until day 56 post-partum. The induction of parturition was successful in all heifers and 22 of 24 animals had RFM. All RFM cows had bacterial endometritis. The predominant bacteria were Escherichia coli alpha-haemolytic streptococci, Fusobacterium necrophorum, Arcanobacterium (Actinomyces) pyogenes, Bacteroides spp., Pasteurella spp. and Proteus spp. Fusobacterium necrophorum and A. pyogenes could be isolated for 3-5 weeks post-partum and E. coli Pasteurella and Proteus could be isolated for 2-3 weeks post-partum. Animals treated with tetracycline after placental shedding (T1 and TF1) had a more rapid recovery from infections with A. pyogenes and F. necrophorum than animals that were not treated with tetracycline. No other genera were affected. Antibiotic treatment before placental shedding (T2 and TF2) did not shorten the uterine infection but altered the bacterial flora, seen as an overgrowth of Proteus spp. (p < 0.05) and increased frequency of Pasteurella (p < 0.05). The alpha-haemolytic streptococci were less common in T2 and TF2 than in other groups (NS). Antibiotic treatment of cows before placental shedding (T2 or TF2, n = 6) postponed detachment of placenta compared to cows were no antibiotics were administered before placental shedding (T1, TF1, F1, F2 and 0, n = 16. 9.8 days pp (median) versus p = 0.004). Neither treatment shortened uterine involution. Flunixin treatments did not seem to influence recovery from infection or uterine involution. It was concluded that early oxytetracycline treatment of retained fetal membranes in the cow did not shorten the uterine involution or uterine infection but it did slow down the detachment process of the retained placenta. Oxytetracycline treatment after placental shedding might shorten the uterine infection but otherwise did not affect the clinical results. Flunixin treatment had no influence on the clinical outcome of the disease.

Administration, Oral↗