Pregnancy success in bitches - evaluation of interactions between artificial insemination method, serum progesterone concentration and vaginal cytology parameters

Background: The artificial insemination has become a well-established method in the breeding of bitches, and evaluation of the factors that may potentially affect pregnancy success is essential. For this reason, it is essential to evaluate the factors that may affect fertility of the bitch when artificial insemination is performed. Serum progesterone concentrations and vaginal cytology have been used to determine the time of ovulation and stage of the estrus cycle. This study aimed to evaluate the artificial insemination method, the serum progesterone concentration, the breed size, age, the whelping number, vaginal cytology parameters, and their interactions on pregnancy success in bitches. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 607 bitches that had undergone reproductive consultation with the Mexican Canine Federation from January to December 2016 were enrolled in the present study and assigned to one of 2 artificial insemination methods (intravaginal and transcervical) using fresh semen. Determination of the estrus cycle phase and the time of Artificial insemination was based on vaginal cytology and serum progesterone concentrations. Bitches inseminated by the transcervical technique had a higher pregnancy rate with respect to females inseminated by the intravaginal technique (P < 0.05). Moreover, females with a serum progesterone concentration of 5-10 ng/mL had a greater probability (> 4 times) of getting pregnant than animals with lower or higher progesterone concentrations (P < 0.05). Bitches inseminated by the intravaginal technique and with serum progesterone concentrations >10 ng/mL had a considerable reduction in pregnancy (P < 0.05) compared with females with < 10 ng/mL serum progesterone or with bitches inseminated by the transcervical technique. Discusion: Serum progesterone concentration, the artificial insemination method, and superficial cells without a nucleus modified the pregnancy rate in bitches. Females inseminated by transcervical semen deposition had a higher pregnancy rate than females inseminated by the intravaginal technique. Using fresh or frozen-thawed semen produced a higher pregnancy rate in bitches inseminated by transcervical semen deposition than females inseminated by the intravaginal technique. Differences in the pregnancy rate between transcervical and intravaginal insemination could be associated with the correct semen disposition, the distance that the sperm must travel to reach the oocyte, as well as the number of sperm that reach the oviduct ampulla. Exist evidences that after ovulation, as progesterone rises, the cervix is closed, which may compromise the passage of the sperm deposited into the vagina. Therefore, it is likely that in females with a serum progesterone concentration > 10 ng/mL, the cervix was closed, compromising the ability of the sperm to access the oviduct. Thus, the use of intravaginal insemination should be done in bitches with a serum progesterone concentrations < 11 ng/mL to reduce the possibility of cervical closure and to increase the odds of pregnancy. It is well documented that the serum progesterone concentration and vaginal cytology parameters have a great influence on pregnancy success, and the results confirm these findings. In the present study, 96% of the bitches inseminated with a serum progesterone concentration of 5-10 ng/mL got pregnant and had higher odds of pregnancy than bitches with lower or higher serum progesterone concentrations.

Pontos críticos na produção de embriões equinos com enfoque na doadora / Critical points in the production of equine embryos with a donor approach

Inúmeras são as vantagens da utilização da técnica de transferência de embriões (TE) em equinos. No entanto, alguns fatores podem afetar a taxa de recuperação embrionária: dia da colheita do embrião; condição uterina e idade da doadora; manejos reprodutivo, sanitário e nutricional; garanhão/qualidade do sêmen; habilidade do técnico; condições climáticas, número de ovulações e adaptação da doadora. O objetivo deste artigo é revisar os fatores que podem exercer influência sobre a taxa de recuperação embrionária tendo impacto direto nos índices reprodutivos de um programa de TE.(AU)

There are countless advantages of using the embryo transfer (ET) technique in horses. However, some factors may affect the embryonic recovery rate: day of embryo collection; uterine condition and donor age; reproductive, health and nutritional management; stallion/semen quality; skill of the technician; climatic conditions, number of ovulations and adaptation of the donor. The objective of this article is to review those factors that can influence the embryonic recovery rate, having a direct impact on the reproductive rates of an ET program.(AU)

A arte de inseminar éguas com sêmen congelado / The art of inseminating mares with frozen semen

Nos últimos quinze anos, a equideocultura foi uma atividade em destaque com significativo crescimento no Brasil e no mundo. O Brasil é o segundo país no mundo que mais utiliza transporte de sêmen equino, ficando atrás apenas dos Estados Unidos e a utilização do sêmen congelado no país vem expandido a cada dia. O índice de prenhez por ciclo, com sêmen equino congelado é variável e oscila entre 25 e 40%. Adicionalmente, sabe-se que o sêmen de alguns garanhões apresenta baixa viabilidade após o descongelamento. A primeira prenhez obtida com sêmen equino congelado foi relatada há cinco décadas. Segundo Cazalez, 2020, é muito difícil recomendar uma dose inseminante padrão para sêmen congelado em equinos. A maioria dos estudos científicos não consegue controlar o efeito de outros fatores "de confusão" como método de processo, fator égua, fator garanhão, técnica de inseminação etc., tornando difícil uma comparação crítica dos mesmos. Rigby et al. (2001) obtiveram taxas de prenhez similares ao se comparar a inseminação artificial profunda em corno uterino com endoscópio e pipeta flexível.(AU)

In the last fifteen years, equine breeding has been a prominent activity with significant growth in Brazil and in the world. Brazil is the second country in the world that most uses equine semen transport, second only to the United States, and the use of frozen semen in the country is expanding every day. The pregnancy rate per cycle with frozen equine semen is variable and ranges from 25 to 40%. Additionally, it is known that the semen of some stallions has low viability after thawing. The first pregnancy obtained with frozen equine semen was reported five decades ago. According to Cazalez, 2020, it is very difficult to recommend a standard insemination dose for frozen semen in horses. Most scientific studies cannot control for the effect of other "confounding" factors such as processing method, mare factor, stallion factor, insemination technique, etc., making it difficult to critically compare them. Rigby et al. (2001) obtained similar pregnancy rates when comparing deep artificial insemination in the uterine horn with an endoscope and flexible pipette.(AU)

Idiopathic subfertility in stallions. Clinical approaches to a complex problem

At least 30-40% of stallions in commercial breeding programs are moderately fertile and 8-12% are subfertile (0.5-3% with severe subfertility). From the total reported cases of the subfertility, in 2-20% of the stallions the cause is unknown or was not established. The objective of this work is to present the concept of subfertile stallion based on the current state of knowledge and advanced molecular diagnostic technologies. Low pregnancy rates have been reported in stallions with normal semen quality after conventional evaluation. Acrosome reaction (AR) is necessary for natural fertilization and impaired acrosome reaction (IAR) leads to subfertility or infertility in horses, however, AR test is not included in routine semen analysis. Genome-wide association study identified FKBP6 as a strong candidate gene responsible for this failure. The gene encodes for FK506 binding protein 6 (FKBP6) which is involved in sperm development and functions. We could conclude that the evaluation of the acrosomal status is essential in cases of stallions with good motility, concentration, morphology and viability but unexplained (idiopathic) subfertility or infertility. It is important to highlight the recent increase in reports of fertility problems in stallions related to disorders of genetic origin.(AU)

Criopreservação do sêmen suíno: desafios a serem superados que auxiliam a identificação de espermatozoides mais férteis / Boar semen cryopreservation: challenges to be overcome that help the identification of more fertile spermatozoa

A criopreservação é o melhor método de armazenamento de sêmen por período indeterminado, conferindo alta flexibilidade de uso. Além disso, é o principal meio para formação de banco de germoplasma. No entanto, congelar sêmen suíno ainda é um desafio a ser enfrentado. Isso porquê, além das características de membrana espermática que ocasionam maiores efeitos deletérios às células durante os processos de congelação e descongelação, ainda é preciso lidar com a grande variabilidade de resultados, seja entre indivíduos, ejaculados de um mesmo indivíduo ou ainda, frações de um mesmo ejaculado. Frente a isso, diferentes estratégias têm sido investigadas a fim de obter melhores resultados e assim, aumentar a aplicabilidade do sêmen congelado suíno a nível comercial. Além disso, acreditamos que haja a possibilidade de se relacionar a capacidade de criotolerância de um determinado espermatozoide a sua maior ou menor capacidade de fertilizar o oócito.(AU)

Cryopreservation is the best method of storing semen indefinitely, providing high flexibility of use. In addition, it is the primary means for forming a germplasm bank. However, freezing boar semen is still a challenge to be faced because, in addition to the characteristics of the spermatic membrane that cause deleterious effects to the cells during the freezing and thawing processes, it is still necessary to deal with the significant variability of results, whether between individuals, ejaculates from the same individual or even fractions of an even ejaculated. Because of this, different strategies have been investigated to obtain better results and thus increase the applicability of frozen boar semen at a commercial level. Furthermore, we believe it is possible to relate the cryotolerance capacity of a given sperm to its greater or lesser capacity to fertilize the oocyte.(AU)

Comparison of Apgar score, serum lactate, and blood gas analysis in neonates born by elective cesarean section or cesarean section after dystocia / Comparação do escore Apgar, lactato sérico e hemogasometria em neonatos nascidos por cesariana eletiva e cesariana após distocia

ABSTRACT: In some situations, the neonatal mortality rate in dogs can be high, and perinatal and postnatal veterinary care is essential to improve survival. This study to compared the Apgar score, serum lactate levels, and blood gas analysis results in 30 neonates born by elective cesarean section (GCE, n = 18) or cesarean section due to dystocia (GD, n = 12). Neonates were assessed at five time points: T0, at birth; T1, 3 h after birth; T2, 6 h after birth; T3, 12 h after birth; and T4, 24 h after birth. At T0, in the GCE group, 55.6% of the animals presented with adequate vitality, while 38.8% showed moderate changes in the Apgar score. In the GD group, 83.3% of the neonates had severe loss of vitality. At T1, none of the GCE neonates and 8.3% of the GD neonates presented with vitality deficits. Hyperlactatemia was observed in 83.3% of the GD neonates, and mixed acidosis (metabolic and respiratory) was observed at T0 in most neonates in both groups (GCE, 55.6%; GD, 72.7%). Compared to GCE neonates, the acid-base disorders were more severe and their recovery slower in GD neonates. At T0, GD neonates had higher hyperlactatemia and a lower Apgar score (worse vitality) than those of GCE neonates.

RESUMO: A taxa de mortalidade neonatal em cães pode ser elevada em algumas situações e a assistência veterinária peri e pós-natal mostra-se essencial para melhorar a sobrevivência dos filhotes nesse período. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o escore Apgar, lactato sérico e hemogasometria em neonatos nascidos por cesariana eletiva (GCE, n=18) e por cesariana após distocia (GD, n=12). Os neonatos foram avaliados em cinco momentos: (T0) ao nascimento; (T1) três horas; (T2) seis horas; (T3) 12 horas; e (T4) 24 horas. Ao nascimento, no GCE, 55,6% dos animais apresentaram boa vitalidade, de acordo com escore Apgar, e 38,8% demonstraram moderada vitalidade. No GD, 83,3% dos neonatos apresentaram baixa vitalidade. Ao T1 (três horas após o nascimento), nenhum (0%) dos neonatos do GCE e 8,3% dos neonatos do GD evidenciavam perda de vitalidade. Observou-se hiperlactatemia em 83,3% nos neonatos do GD e acidose mista (metabólica e respiratória) ao nascimento na maioria dos neonatos de ambos os grupos (55,6% no GCE e 72,7% no GD). Conclui-se que o principal distúrbio ácido-base observado ao nascimento foi acidose mista (metabólica e respiratória) em ambos os grupos. Os distúrbios acido-base nos neonatos do GD foram mais graves e sua recuperação mais lenta quando comparados com neonatos do GCE. Ao nascimento, neonatos no GD apresentaram maior hiperlactatemia e menor escore Apgar (pior vitalidade) em relação aos nascidos no GCE.

The correlation between body weight, body weight gain and blood parameters in pigs at birth and weaning / A correlação entre peso corporal, ganho de peso corporal e parâmetros sanguíneos em suínos ao nascimento e desmame

The aim of study was to determine the relationship between metabolic parameters, body weight and body growth of piglets at birth and weaning. The experiment included 80 piglets obtained from F1 generation sows. Body weight was measured at birth (BW0), 24h (BW1) after birth and on day 25 (at weaning, BW2). Blood sampling was performed at the beginning of life (3rd day after birth) and at weaning (21st day after birth). BW0 and BW1 positively correlated with cholesterol and negatively with urea values at the beginning of life and RBC values at weaning. BW2 positively correlates with albumin and cortisol values at the beginning of life, total proteins, and globulins at weaning, and negatively correlates with erythrocyte values at weaning. Piglet growth from birth to weaning (BWG2-0) correlates positively with total proteins, albumin, and cortisol at the beginning of life and total proteins at weaning. ROC analysis shows that MCHC, TPROT, GLOB, CHOL and AST at the beginning of life can distinguish fast-growing from slow-growing piglets from birth to weaning period. The use of blood parameters enables early recognition of growth rate in piglets, which can help to optimize all further steps to achieve the best possible growth.

O objetivo do estudo foi determinar a relação entre parâmetros metabólicos, peso corporal e crescimento corporal de leitões ao nascimento e desmame. A experiência incluiu 80 leitões obtidos de porcas da geração F1. O peso corporal foi medido ao nascimento (BW0), 24h (BW1) após o nascimento e no dia 25 (no desmame, BW2). A amostragem de sangue foi realizada no início da vida (3º dia após o nascimento) e no desmame (21º dia após o nascimento). BW0 e BW1 correlacionaram-se positivamente com o colesterol e negativamente com os valores de uréia no início da vida e com os valores de hemácias no desmame. BW2 correlaciona-se positivamente com os valores de albumina e cortisol no início da vida, proteínas totais e globulinas no desmame, e negativamente com os valores de eritrócitos no desmame. O crescimento do leitão desde o nascimento até o desmame (BWG2-0) se correlaciona positivamente com as proteínas totais, albumina e cortisol no início da vida e com as proteínas totais no desmame. A análise ROC mostra que MCHC, TPROT, GLOB, CHOL e AST no início da vida pode distinguir leitões de crescimento rápido de leitões de crescimento lento desde o nascimento até o desmame. O uso de parâmetros sanguíneos permite o reconhecimento precoce da taxa de crescimento em leitões, o que pode ajudar a otimizar todas as etapas posteriores para alcançar o melhor crescimento possível.

Comparison of Apgar score, serum lactate, and blood gas analysis in neonates born by elective cesarean section or cesarean section after dystocia / Comparação do escore Apgar, lactato sérico e hemogasometria em neonatos nascidos por cesariana eletiva e cesariana após distocia

In some situations, the neonatal mortality rate in dogs can be high, and perinatal and postnatal veterinary care is essential to improve survival. This study to compared the Apgar score, serum lactate levels, and blood gas analysis results in 30 neonates born by elective cesarean section (GCE, n = 18) or cesarean section due to dystocia (GD, n = 12). Neonates were assessed at five time points: T0, at birth; T1, 3 h after birth; T2, 6 h after birth; T3, 12 h after birth; and T4, 24 h after birth. At T0, in the GCE group, 55.6% of the animals presented with adequate vitality, while 38.8% showed moderate changes in the Apgar score. In the GD group, 83.3% of the neonates had severe loss of vitality. At T1, none of the GCE neonates and 8.3% of the GD neonates presented with vitality deficits. Hyperlactatemia was observed in 83.3% of the GD neonates, and mixed acidosis (metabolic and respiratory) was observed at T0 in most neonates in both groups (GCE, 55.6%; GD, 72.7%). Compared to GCE neonates, the acid-base disorders were more severe and their recovery slower in GD neonates. At T0, GD neonates had higher hyperlactatemia and a lower Apgar score (worse vitality) than those of GCE neonates.

A taxa de mortalidade neonatal em cães pode ser elevada em algumas situações e a assistência veterinária peri e pós-natal mostra-se essencial para melhorar a sobrevivência dos filhotes nesse período. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o escore Apgar, lactato sérico e hemogasometria em neonatos nascidos por cesariana eletiva (GCE, n=18) e por cesariana após distocia (GD, n=12). Os neonatos foram avaliados em cinco momentos: (T0) ao nascimento; (T1) três horas; (T2) seis horas; (T3) 12 horas; e (T4) 24 horas. Ao nascimento, no GCE, 55,6% dos animais apresentaram boa vitalidade, de acordo com escore Apgar, e 38,8% demonstraram moderada vitalidade. No GD, 83,3% dos neonatos apresentaram baixa vitalidade. Ao T1 (três horas após o nascimento), nenhum (0%) dos neonatos do GCE e 8,3% dos neonatos do GD evidenciavam perda de vitalidade. Observou-se hiperlactatemia em 83,3% nos neonatos do GD e acidose mista (metabólica e respiratória) ao nascimento na maioria dos neonatos de ambos os grupos (55,6% no GCE e 72,7% no GD). Conclui-se que o principal distúrbio ácido-base observado ao nascimento foi acidose mista (metabólica e respiratória) em ambos os grupos. Os distúrbios acido-base nos neonatos do GD foram mais graves e sua recuperação mais lenta quando comparados com neonatos do GCE. Ao nascimento, neonatos no GD apresentaram maior hiperlactatemia e menor escore Apgar (pior vitalidade) em relação aos nascidos no GCE.

Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de cardiomegalia fetal em felino / Intrauterine ultrasound diagnosis of fetal cardiomegaly in a feline

A ultrassonografia é um dos principais métodos de diagnóstico gestacional, no qual se realiza: biometria, monitoramento de batimentos e organogênese, detecção de anormalidades e avaliação da circulação sanguínea materno-fetal. Nesse quesito, o diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de anormalidades fetais vem adquirindo espaço com o desenvolvimento de equipamentos mais avançados, tendo potencial para se tornar uma ferramenta de triagem para tal. Baseado na escassez observada nesse aspecto, visa-se relatar o diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de uma alteração fetal em uma felina gestante. Foi atendida uma felina da raça persa, 3 anos, com histórico de monta natural há 40 dias. Na ultrassonografia visibilizou-se quatro fetos vivos com aproximadamente 38 dias. Uma segunda avaliação ultrassonográfica ocorreu após 12 dias, notando-se um feto com cardiomegalia, oscilação da frequência cardíaca e sofrimento fetal, enquanto os demais fetos apresentavam-se dentro da normalidade. O terceiro exame foi feito após quatro dias, visibilizando ausência de batimento cardíaco e presença de líquido em espaço pleural no feto em questão, confirmando o óbito. O parto natural ocorreu após uma semana, com nascimento de três filhotes vivos e um natimorto. Ao exame necroscópico do natimorto, confirmou-se cardiomegalia generalizada. Conclui-se que a ultrassonografia é um método padrão-ouro para diagnóstico de anormalidades fetais, permitindo planejar o parto e interceder de maneira precoce conforme a situação. Assim, esse trabalho enriquece a literatura com maiores informações relacionadas a malformações fetais observadas antes do parto, contribuindo assim com as condutas obstétricas em pequenos animais.(AU)

Ultrasonography is one of the main methods of gestational diagnosis, in which it performs: biometry, monitoring of beats and organogenesis, detection of abnormalities and evaluation of maternal-fetal blood circulation. In this regard, intrauterine sonographic diagnosis of fetal abnormalities has been gaining space with the development of more advanced equipment, and has the potential to become a screening tool for this purpose. Based on the scarcity observed in this aspect, this study aimsto report the intrauterine ultrasound diagnosis of a fetal abnormality in a pregnant feline. The patient was a 3-year-old Persian female with a history of natural mounting for 40 days. At ultrasonography, four live fetuses were visualized at approximately38 days of age. Asecond ultrasonographic evaluation was performed after 12 days, and one fetus with cardiomegaly, heart rate oscillation and fetal distress was observed, while the other fetuses were within normal limits. The third scan was performed after four days, showing absence of heartbeat and presence of fluid in the pleural space in the fetus in question, confirming the death. Natural delivery occurred after one week, with the birth of three live pups and one stillborn. At necroscopic examination of the stillborn, generalized cardiomegaly was confirmed. We conclude that ultrasonography is a gold standard method for diagnosing fetal abnormalities, allowing birth planning and early intervention according to the situation. Thus, this study enriches theliterature with more information related to fetal malformations observed before delivery, thus contributing to obstetric management in small animals.(AU)

Evaluation of an automated temperature control equipment for lactating sows

The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an automated cooling control system (ATCE) for sows in the farrowing phase. The experiment was conducted at the Swine Production Unit, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology, Campus Machado, Machado, state of Minas Gerais. Sixteen sows and their offspring were evaluated, eight treated and eight controls, in a randomized block design, with eight replications. Surface temperature, body temperature and respiratory rate of the animals were evaluated, in addition to floor temperature and performance parameters. The use of ATCE decreased the floor temperature (12h) and neck temperature (12 and 16h) (p < 0.10). In addition, there was a reduction in rectal temperature (12h) and respiratory rate (12 and 16h) in ATCE animals (p < 0.10). No significant differences were detected in the coefficient of variation (CV) of birth weight, but at weaning the CV of piglet weight was 26.3% lower in animals subjected to the ATCE (p = 0.079). Furthermore, the difference in CV between birth and weaning was also lower with the use of ATCE (p = 0.015). It can be concluded that the use of ATCE has a positive influence on the thermal comfort of females, in addition to improving litter uniformity.(AU)

Effect of assisted calving on uterine puerperal disorders occurrence, and on reproductive efficiency in crossbred dairy cows / Efeito do parto assistido na ocorrência de desordens uterinas puerperais e na eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras mestiças

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the type of calving (normal or assisted) on the occurrence of puerperal uterine disorders and on the number of artificial inseminations (AI) per conception and pregnancy rate at 150 days postpartum (PPD). Cows were observed during parturition and the type of calving was classified as normal or assisted. Normal calving required no human interference, while assisted calving required a calf removal aid via vaginal access. There were 825 births, 7 stillbirths (0.85%) and 17 twins (2.06%). We analyzed 801 single births, from which 766 (95.63%) were normal and 35 (4.36%) assisted. Were evaluated the uterine disorders occurrence such as retained placenta combined with metritis (PR/ME) and clinical endometritis (CE). The overall occurrences were 10.24% (82/801) of RP/ME, 12.86% for CE and 5.12% for RP/ME and CE. Most of normal calving cows had healthy puerperium (73.89%), whereas a majority of assisted calving cows had uterine disorders (74.29%). The number of AI per conception was similar for cows that had either normal or assisted calving (2.39±0.08 and 3.00±0.43, P = 0.16). There was no evidence of negative influence of calving type on the 150 PPD pregnancy rate of lactating crossbreed dairy cows (P = 0.44). Healthy cows had higher 150 PPD pregnancy rate than cows affected by puerperium uterine disorders (51.65 vs. 42.92%). Normal calving crossbred dairy cows had a healthier puerperium, compared to cows with assisted calving which were more susceptible to puerperium uterine disorders. And cows with a health puerperium have a higher pregnancy rate at 150 days postpartum.

Objetivou-se avaliar em vacas leiteiras mestiças que pariram um bezerro vivo, o efeito do tipo de parto (normal ou assistido) na ocorrência de desordens uterinas puerperais e no número de inseminações artificiais (IA) por concepção e taxa de prenhez 150 dias pós-parto (DPP). As vacas foram monitoradas durante o parto e o tipo de parto foi classificado como normal ou assistido. O parto normal não precisou de interferência humana, enquanto o parto assistido precisou de auxílio para retirada do bezerro por via vaginal. Foram registrados 825 partos, sendo 7 natimortos (0,85%) e 17 gemelares (2,06%). Foram analisados 801 partos simples, dos quais 766 (95,63%) foram normais e 35 (4,36%) foram assistidos. Foram avaliadas a ocorrência de desordens uterinas como a retenção de placenta associada com metrite (RP/ME) e endometrite clínica (EC). A ocorrência das doenças foi de 10,24% (82/801) para RP/ME, 12,86% para EC e 5.12% para RP/ME com CE. A maioria das vacas com parto normal tiveram puerpério saudável (73,89%), enquanto a maioria das vacas com parto assistido apresentaram desordens uterinas (74,29%). O número de IA por concepção foi semelhante nas vacas que tiveram parto normal ou assistido (2,39±0,08 e 3,00±0,43, P = 0,16). Não houve evidência de influência negativa do tipo de parto na taxa de prenhez 150 DPP de vacas leiteiras mestiças em lactação (P = 0,44). Vacas saudáveis apresentaram maior taxa de prenhez 150 DPP do que vacas afetadas por desordens uterinas no puerpério (51,65 vs. 42,92%). Vacas leiteiras mestiças com parto normal tiveram um puerpério saudável, comparadas às que tiveram parto assistido, por sua vez foram mais susceptíveis as desordens uterinas no puerpério. E vacas com puerpério saudável resultaram em maiores taxas de prenhez aos 150 dias pós parto.

Effect of adding Spirulina platensis algae to small ruminant rations on productive, reproductive traits and some blood components

This experiment conducted using 20 Rahmani ewes at the last third of pregnancy in two equal groups. One group served as control, while the other group received Spirulina platensis(SP) at the rate of 0.5 gm 10 kg-1live body weight. The objective was to find out the effect of adding Spirulina platensisalgae to small ruminant rations on reproductive and productive traits and blood components of sheep. The experiments lasted for 120 days for both dams and their lambs after weaning. The findings proved that adding SP in ewes' diets had no effect on the average of live body weight change. Average milk yield was significantly (p <0.01) higher in the treatment group than the control. Lamb's birth weight and daily body gain of the treated group were significantly (p <0.01) higher than the control. Blood and serum picture profile of ewes were significantly higher when fed SP additive than the control.It could be concluded that the addition of SP to the ration of sheep positively preserved their health, productive and reproductive status as well as their lambs' growth rate. Also the additive improved the economic efficiency of treated animals by about 53.13%.(AU)

Economic valuations for technical indicators in sheep production / Valoração econômica para indicadores técnicos na produção de ovinos

The objectives of this work were to identify and model the interrelationships among zootechnical indicators manifested in sheep production from an intensive system in Brazil and to ascertain the impact of these indicators on the economic and productive outcomes from management operations. To this end, two multiple regression models were developed to determine which indicators had influence, and in what proportion, on the quantity of kilograms of lambs sold in the system. In order to determine the effects of the FAMACHA© scores on ewes during breeding and lambing, as related to the production quantity in kilograms of weaned sheep, two analyses of one-factor variance were designed, in which the absolute (AEV) and relative (REV) economic values were assigned to zootechnical indicators. This approach was taken in order to verify which indices have the greatest effects on profit and, consequently, should be prioritized in the selection criteria. The primary indicators were found to be the prolificacy, ewe weight at lambing, ewe age at lambing, average daily gain, offspring survival and the FAMACHA© score of the ewe at birth and at lambing; their significance (P<0.05) determined the number of kilograms of lambs produced in the system. The indicator with the highest AEV and REV was the age of the ewe at lambing, with US$ 3.78 year-1 ewe-1and 54.09%, respectively. FAMACHA© score 1 provided the highest return to the system, with an absolute economic value of US$ 1.09 ewe-1 at breeding and US$ 1.71 ewe-1 at lambing. Scores 4 and 5 caused damage to both breeding and lambing, with -US$ 1.15 ewe-1 and -US$ 1.44 ewe-1 for score 4, and -US$ 1.24 ewe-1 and -US$ 1.76 ewe-1 for score 5 at breeding and at lambing, respectively. The findings indicated that the producer can manipulate the flock culling rate to increase the age of the dams in order to guarantee a greater productivity of sheep. Another indication would be to apply selection criteria to ensure an increase in the number of superior animals present in the system, especially animals that are resilient to worms. This strategy can facilitate increased profits without the need to significantly increase expenditure on inputs.

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram de identificar e modelar as inter-relações entre indicadores zootécnicos utilizados na produção de ovinos, em um sistema intensivo no Brasil, e verificar o impacto desses indicadores nos resultados econômicos e produtivos da propriedade. Para tanto, foram desenvolvidos dois modelos de regressão múltipla para determinar quais indicadores influenciaram, e em que proporção, a quantidade de quilogramas de cordeiros vendidos no sistema. A fim de determinar os efeitos dos graus FAMACHA© das ovelhas durante a monta e parto, em relação à quantidade de produção em quilogramas de cordeiros desmamados, foram realizadas duas análises de variância de um fator, nas quais valores econômicos absoluto (VEA) e relativo (VER) foram atribuídos aos indicadores zootécnicos. Essa abordagem foi feita com o objetivo de verificar quais índices têm maiores efeitos no lucro e, consequentemente, devem ser priorizados nos critérios de seleção. Os principais indicadores foram a prolificidade, peso da ovelha ao parto, idade da ovelha ao parto, ganho médio diário, sobrevivência da prole e grau FAMACHA© da ovelha ao nascimento e ao parto; sua significância (P<0,05) determinou o número de quilogramas de cordeiros produzidos no sistema. O indicador com maior VEA e VER foi a idade da ovelha ao parto, com US$ 3,78 ano-1 ovelha-1 e 54,09%, respectivamente. O grau FAMACHA© 1 proporcionou o maior retorno ao sistema, com valor econômico absoluto de US$ 1,09 ovelha-1 na monta e US$ 1,71 ovelha-1 no parto. Os graus 4 e 5 causaram prejuízos tanto à monta quanto ao parto, com -US$ 1,15 ovelha-1 e -US$ 1,44 ovelha-1 para o grau 4, e -US$ 1,24 ovelha-1 e -US$ 1,76 ovelha-1 para o grau 5 na monta e no parto, respectivamente. Os resultados indicaram que o produtor pode manipular a taxa de descarte do rebanho para aumentar a idade das matrizes a fim de garantir uma maior produtividade das ovelhas. Outra indicação seria a aplicação de critérios de seleção para garantir o aumento do número de animais superiores presentes no sistema, principalmente animais resistentes a helmintoses. Essa estratégia pode facilitar o aumento dos lucros sem a necessidade de aumentar significativamente os gastos com insumos.

Dr Association of bone morphogenetic protein 15 and growth differentiation factor 9 with litter size in livestock: a review study

Litter size is one of the crucial factors in livestock production and is of high economic value, which is affected by ovulation rate, hormones, and growth factors.Growth factors play a multifaceted role in reproductive physiology. This review aims to investigate the association of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9)with litter size in livestock.The transforming growth factor ß(TGF-ß) superfamily includes more than 34 members; GDF9 and BMP15 are among the most significantfactors for regulating fertility and litter size in most livestock species. Ovarian follicles release BMP15 and GDF9 that are involved in the maturation of primary follicles into the basal form, proliferation of granulosa and theca cells, steroidogenesis, ovulation, and formation of the corpus luteum. Besides, these factors are highly expressed in oocytes and are necessary for female fertility and multiple ovulation in several livestock species. Animals with two inactive copies of these factors are sterile, while those with one inactive copy are fertile. Thus, the present reviewprovides valuable information on the association of BMP15 and GDF9with litter size in livestock that can be used as biological markers of multiple ovulation or for improving fertility in livestock.(AU)

Multidimensional scaling analysis for investigating relations between milk yield and fertility parameters / [Análise multidimensional de escala para investigar as relações entre o rendimento do leite e os parâmetros de fertilidade]

Milk yield and fertility traits in dairy cattle and their relationship with the influencing factors were investigated using multidimensional scaling analysis (MDS) in this study. The study focused on the relationship between lactation length, 305-day milk yield, actual milk yield and peak remaining days from milk yield characteristics, and service period, dry period, insemination per conception and calving interval from fertility traits, as well as the influencing factors such as calving age, lactation number, birth season, and birth year. When the MDS results were examined, it was discovered that all the traits had close Euclidean distances from each other, save for the birth season and birth year. As a result of MDS analysis, R2 and Stress Coefficient were calculated as 88.4% and 0.099, respectively. Consequently, the selection direction was tried to be identified by determining the milk yield and fertility traits and the relationship between these traits and the influencing factors through the MDS analysis and it was concluded that the MDS method could be employed in this field.

As características de produção de leite e fertilidade do gado leiteiro e sua relação com os fatores de influência foram investigadas utilizando a análise de escala multidimensional (MDS) neste estudo. O estudo concentrou-se na relação entre o tempo de lactação, produção de leite de 305 dias, produção real de leite e pico de dias restantes das características de produção de leite, e período de serviço, período seco, inseminação por concepção e intervalo de partos dos traços de fertilidade, bem como os fatores influenciadores como idade de parição, número de lactação, época de nascimento e ano de nascimento. Quando os resultados do MDS foram examinados, descobriu-se que todos os traços tinham distâncias Euclidianas próximas umas das outras, exceto para a época de nascimento e ano de nascimento. Como resultado da análise do MDS, o R2 e o Coeficiente de Estresse foram calculados como 88,4% e 0,099, respectivamente. Consequentemente, tentou-se identificar a direção da seleção determinando os traços de produção e fertilidade do leite e a relação entre estes traços e os fatores de influência através da análise MDS e concluiu-se que o método MDS poderia ser empregado neste campo.

Adição de ácido fítico ao diluente BTS na conservação do sêmen do varrão: avaliação in vivo / Addition of phytic acid to BTS extender in the conservation of boar semen: in vivo evaluation

A manutenção do sêmen suíno sob condições de refrigeração tem se destacado como uma técnica eficiente para a difusão do material genético, através dos programas de inseminação artificial. Neste sentido, a adição de várias substâncias, como antioxidantes, ao diluente vem sendo adotada na conservação do sêmen de diversas espécies domésticas. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ação do ácido fítico adicionado ao diluente do sêmen conservado sob refrigeração, através da avaliação dos resultados de fertilidade de fêmeas suínas inseminadas. Foram utilizados quatro reprodutores (Agroceres) e setenta fêmeas para formação de lotes no decorrer de sete semanas. Os lotes de inseminação foram formados com o sêmen diluído em BTS (35 fêmeas) e BTS adicionado de ácido fítico na concentração de 525µM/100mL (35 fêmeas). Na avaliação dos resultados, considerou-se os seguintes aspectos: 1) taxa de fertilidade; 2) taxa de parição; 3) número total de leitões/parto; 4) número de leitões nascidos vivos/parto. Observou-se que as taxas de fertilidade e parição, assim como a prolificidade das porcas inseminadas com BTS e BTS adicionado de ácido fítico não diferiram estatisticamente (p>0,05). A adição do ácido fítico ao diluente BTS não influenciou os resultados reprodutivos das fêmeas suínas. Dessa forma, estudos futuros devem ser realizados a fim de avaliar a eficácia de diferentes concentrações do ácido fítico sobre a fertilidade e prolificidade de fêmeas suínas.

The maintenance of boar semen under refrigerated conditions has been highlighted as an effective technique for the diffusion of genetic material through artificial insemination programs. In this sense, the addition of several substances, such as antioxidants, to the diluente has been used in the conservation semen from various domestic species. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the action of phytic acid added to the semen extender, conserved under refrigeration by evaluating the fertility results obtained from inseminated swine females. Four boars (Agroceres), which were used for artificial insemination as semen donors, and seventy females were used to compose the lots during the seven weeks of the experiment. The insemination lots were formed with the semen diluted in BTS (35 females) and BTS added with phytic acid at 525µM/100mL (35 females). For results evaluation, the following aspects were considered: 1) fertility rate; 2) farrowing rate; 3) total number of piglets/delivery; 4) number of live birth piglets/delivery. It was observed that the fertility and farrowing rates, as well as the prolificacy of sows inseminated with BTS and BTS added with phytic acid did not differ statistically (p>0.05). The addition of phytic acid to the BTS diluent did not influence the reproductive results of swine. Therefore, further studies must be performed to evaluate the efficacy of different phytic acid concentrations on the fertility and prolificacy of sows.

Reproductive disorders and reconception of beef cows subjected to timed artificial insemination / Perdas reprodutivas e reconcepção em fêmeas bovinas de corte submetidas a inseminação artificial em tempo fixo

The objective of this study was to evaluate gestational losses between 30 and 120 days of gestation and reconception in beef cows submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). The 18,462 information from the zootechnical file of animals submitted to FTAI in the period of the breeding season from November 2019 to April 2020 in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais were analyzed. The parameters evaluated were gestational loss, animal category, presence of the calf with the cow, body condition score (BCS) and final situation of the breeding season of the females that lost gestation after FTAI, the data were analyzed by Person's chi-square test (χ²) and Kruskal-Wallis test, with a significance level of 5% with use of the SPSS program. The final pregnancy rate was 58.52%. The loss rate between the first and second gestational diagnosis was 3.6%. Dependence was observed between the variables category and gestational loss (χ²= 12.374, p<0.05). The presence of the calf or not at the foot of the cow had no influence in relation to gestational loss (p>0.05). The difference in BSC between the categories was significant (p<0.05). Final situation was influenced (p<0.05) by animal category. Calving order and body condition score significantly influenced the gestational loss rate.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as perdas gestacionais entre 30 e 120 dias de gestação e reconcepção em vacas de corte submetidas à inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF). Foram analisadas 18.462 informações do arquivo zootécnico de animais submetidos a IATF no período da estação de monta de novembro de 2019 a abril de 2020 na região do semiárido de Minas Gerais. Os parâmetros avaliados foram perda gestacional, categoria animal, presença do bezerro ao pé da vaca, escore de condição corporal (ECC) e situação final da estação de monta das fêmeas que perderam gestação após a IATF, os dados foram analisados pelo teste qui-quadrado de Person (χ²) e teste de Kruskal-Wallis, com nível de significância de 5% com uso do programa SPSS. A taxa de prenhez final foi de 58,52%. A taxa de perdas entre o primeiro e segundo diagnóstico gestacional foi de 3,6%. Observou-se dependência entre as variáveis categoria e perda gestacional (X²= 12,374, p<0,05). A presença do bezerro ou não ao pé da vaca, não teve influência em relação a perda gestacional (p>0,05). A diferença do ECC entre as categorias foi significativa (p<0,05). A situação final foi influenciada (p<0,05) pela categoria animal. A ordem de parição e o escore de condição corporal influenciam significativamente a taxa de perda gestacional.

In vitro sperm characteristics and in vivo fertility of sex-sorted and conventional semen in suckled Nelore cows at a traditional schedule for timed-AI with estrus detection / Características espermáticas in vitro e fertilidade in vivo de sêmen convencional e sexado em vacas Nelore pósparto submetidas à IATF tradicional com detecção de estro

The aim of this study was to assess in vitro sperm characteristics and pregnancies/AI (P/AI) of conventional and sex-sorted semen at timed-AI of suckled, multiparous Nelore cows. All cows (n=348) were submitted to a traditional estradiol/progesterone (P4)-based protocol. At 48h after P4-device removal, the estrous behavior was recorded, and AI was performed with conventional or sex-sorted semen from two bulls. The following sperm assessments were performed: CASA, Hyposmotic Test, sperm morphometry and chromatin structure by TB staining. P/AI were reduced (P<0.001) for sex-sorted compared to conventional semen in cows expressing estrus (27vs47%) or not (11vs.37%). Membrane integrity (Bull1: 30.3±9.6 vs. 52.3±12.4%, P=0.01; Bull2: 24.5±3.0 vs. 48.7±1.6%, P=0.006) and sperm concentration (Bulll: 23.2±0.6 vs. 43.0±0.8x10 sperm/mL, P<0.001; Bull2: 25.1+2.8 VS. 42.1±0.7x10 sperm/mL; P<0.001) were reduced in sex-sorted compared to conventional semen, for both bulls. Total and progressive motility were reduced in sex-sorted semen for Bull1 (TM: 49.7±15.9 vs. 94.9±1.9%, P=0.007; PM: 16.7±3.4 vs. 44.1±13.2%, P=0.009) and no differences were detected for Bull2 (TM: 45.0±17.5 vs. 68.2±19.1%, P=0.098; PM: 12.8±4.7 vs. 30.0±13.0%, P=0.065). Sperm ellipticity from sex-sorted was lower than conventional semen for Bull2 (0.306±0.01 vs. 0.342±0.02, P=0.02) and no difference was detected for Bull1 (0.332±0.01 vs. 0.330±0.01, P=0.55). Reduced in vivo fertility was observed for sex-sorted semen, regardless of estrous behavior. In vitro sperm quality of sex-sorted semen was compromised for both bulls, but differently affected for each sire.

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar características espermáticas in vitro e a taxa de concepção (TC) de sêmen convencional e sexado em um programa de IATF tradicional de vacas Nelore pós-parto. Todas as vacas (n=348) foram submetidas ao mesmo protocolo de IATF à base de estradiol e de progesterona. Após 48 horas da retirada do implante, foi determinada a expressão de estro dos animais e a IA foi realizada com sêmen convencional e sexado de dois touros Angus. As seguintes características espermáticas foram avaliadas: análise computadorizada do sêmen, teste hiposmótico, morfometria espermática e estrutura cromatinica por meio da coloração com azul de toluidina. A TC foi menor (P<0,001) para sêmen sexado comparado ao convencional, em vacas que expressaram estro (27 vs. 47%) e que não apresentaram estro (11 vs. 37%). A integridade da membrana plasmática (Touro 1: 30,319,6 vs. 52,3+12,4%, P=0,010; Touro 2: 24,5+3,0 vs. 48,7±1,6%, P=0,006) e a concentração espermática (Touro 1: 23,2±0,6 vs. 43,0±0,8x10 sperm/mL, P<0,001; Touro 2: 25,1+2,8 vs. 42,1 +0,7x10'sperm/mL, P<0,001) foram menores no sêmen sexado comparado ao convencional, para ambos os touros. Motilidades total e progressiva foram menores no sêmen sexado comparado ao convencional para o Touro 1 (MT: 49,7±15,9 vs. 94,9±1,9%, P=0,007; MP: 16,7+3,4 vs. 44,1+13,2%, P=0,009), enquanto diferenças não foram detectadas no Touro 2 (MT: 45,0±17,5 vs. 68,2±19,1%, P=0,098; MP: 12,8±4,7 vs. 30,0±13,0%, P=0,065). Elipticidade espermática do sêmen sexado foi menor do que do sêmen convencional no Touro 2 (0,306±0,01 vs. 0,342±0,02, P=0,020), mas não houve diferença no Touro 1 (0,332±0,01 vs. 0,330±0,01, P=0,552). Reduzida fertilidade in vivo foi observada para o sêmen sexado em relação ao convencional, independentemente da expressão de cio das vacas. A qualidade seminal in vitro do sêmen sexado foi comprometida para ambos os touros, mas diferentemente afetada para cada reprodutor.

Malformações congênitas em ovinos - surto causado por Mimosa tenuiflora / Congenital malformationsin sheep - outbreak caused by Mimosa tenuiflora

Background: Congenital malformations are anomalies, structural or functional, that occur during the embryonic or fetal phase. There are several causes, one of which is the ingestion of toxic plants. Considering the importance of native toxic plants in the Central Backlands of Ceará state - Brazil, this paper reports cases of congenital malformations in sheep due to ingestion of Mimosa tenuiflora. Cases: Cases of abortion and malformations in sheep, were monitored in a rural property in the municipality of Piquet Carneiro with 20 ruminants (15 sheep and 5 cows) raised on a semi-intensive regime. The animals grazed during the day and were supplemented with corn, having unrestricted access to dam water. On its margins, there was a large amount of jurema preta (Mimosa tenuiflora), which the owner reported that the sheep consumed daily. The owner was unaware of the toxicity of M. tenuiflora but reported that cases of malformations had already occurred on his property some time ago. In an interval of approximately 12 days, 3 sheep miscarriage fetuses with multiple malformations. Malformed fetuses were referred for anatomopathological examination at the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the Veterinary Hospital of Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Campus Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. The fetuses were necropsied and tissue samples of the nervous system and organs from the thoracic and abdominal cavities were collected, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, routinely processed for histopathology, included in paraffin, cut into 3 µm sections and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). At necropsies were observed permanent contracture of the thoracic limb joints (arthrogryposis), particularly at the radio-carpal joints; incomplete medial fusion of the palatal bone, with communication between the oral and nasal cavities (palatoschisis); hypoplasia of the mandibular bone (micrognathia); unilateral hypoplasia of the incisive bone with discontinuity of the upper lip (cheiloschisis); unilateral hypoplasia of the eyeball (microphthalmia); lateral curvature of the cervical spine (scoliosis); and chest deformity characterized by ventral protrusion of the sternum and ribs (Pectus carinatum). At the histopathological evaluation of the tissues, no alterations were observed. Discussion: The diagnosis was based on the epidemiological, clinical, and anatomopathological findings. The semi-intensive management system applied on the property predisposed the sheep to ingestion of M. tenuiflora, which grows abundantly on the property and throughout the Central Backlands of Ceará, Brazil, with a high rate of geographical coverage. Despite that, most rural producers, especially subsistence farmers, are unaware of the toxic and teratogenic properties of the plant. In the northeastern, where there are long periods of drought coupled with forage shortages, poisoning by M. tenuiflora is a common cause of malformation and mortality in lambs. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt preventive measures in herds, such as raising awareness among producers about the toxic potential of some native plants and the practice of producing and supplying silage to animals, so that native toxic plants are not the only food source during the scarcity period.

Electrocardiographic findings in dogs with obstructive airway diseases / Achados eletrocardiográficos em cães com doenças obstrutivas das vias aéreas

Cardiac rhythm disorders are diagnosed through electrocardiography, which is an important tool to investigate other systemic conditions that may be related to the cardiac conduction system. Cardiac regulation is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and in dogs, it is mainly modulated by a parasympathetic action exerted by the vagus nerve, called vagal tone. Increased vagal tone can occur physiologically or pathologically, leading to the occurrence of bradyarrhythmias. However, some studies report that airway diseases can exacerbate this tone, together with the reduction of sympathetic pathway activities. This study aimed to analyze the cardiac rhythms in dogs presenting with electrocardiographic alterations related to respiratory diseases, in connection with the exacerbation of vagal tone. Medical records of animals whose diagnoses involved at least one respiratory condition and who underwent electrocardiographic assessment between March 2017 to March 2021 were compiled. Data obtained were compiled in Microsoft Excel®1 spreadsheets and evaluated using descriptive statistics through the BioEstat®2 software. Pearson's correlation was used for quantitative data. A correlation between autonomic regulation and vagal exacerbation was observed in cases with obstructive airways diseases.(AU)

Os distúrbios do ritmo cardíaco são diagnosticados por meio da eletrocardiografia, que é uma importante ferra-menta para investigar outras condições sistêmicas que podem estar relacionadas ao sistema de condução cardíaco. A regulação cardíaca é controlada pelo sistema nervoso autônomo e, em cães, é modulada principalmente pela ação parassimpática exer-cida pelo nervo vago, denominada tônus vagal. O aumento do tônus vagal pode ocorrer fisiologicamente ou patologicamente, levando à ocorrência de bradiarritmias. No entanto, alguns estudos relatam que as doenças das vias aéreas podem exacerbar esse tônus, juntamente com a redução das atividades das vias simpáticas. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os ritmos cardíacos em cães com alterações eletrocardiográficas relacionadas a doenças respiratórias, relacionadas à exacerbação do tônus vagal. Foram compilados os prontuários dos animais cujos diagnósticos envolvessem pelo menos uma condição respiratória e que realizaram avaliação eletrocardiográfica, no período entre março de 2017 a março de 2021. Os dados obtidos foram com-pilados em planilhas do Microsoft Excel®1 e avaliados por meio de estatística descritiva por meio do software BioEstat®2. A correlação de Pearson foi usada para dados quantitativos. Foi observada correlação entre regulação autonômica e exacerbação vagal em casos com doenças obstrutivas das vias aéreas.(AU)