Applying assisted reproductive technology and reproductive management to reduce CO2-equivalent emission in dairy and beef cattle: a review

Methane emission from beef and dairy cattle combined contributes around 4.5-5.0% of total anthropogenic global methane. In addition to enteric methane (CH4) produced by the rumen, cattle production also contributes carbon dioxide (CO2) (feed), nitrous oxide (N2O) (feed production, manure) and other CH4 (manure) to the total greenhouse gas (GHG) budget of beef and dairy production systems. The relative contribution in standard dairy systems is typically enteric CH4 58%, feed 29% and manure 10%. Herds with low production efficiency can have an enteric CH4 contribution up to 90%. Digestibility of feed can impact CH4 emission intensity. Low fertility herds also have a greater enteric CH4 contribution. Animals with good feed conversion efficiency have a lower emission intensity of CH4/kg of meat or milk. Feed efficient heifers tend to be lean and have delayed puberty. Fertility is a major driver of profit in both beef and dairy cattle, and it is highly important to apply multi-trait selection when shifting herds towards improved efficiency and reduced CH4. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified for feed efficiency in cattle and are used in genomic selection. SNPs can be utilized in artificial insemination and embryo transfer to increase the proportion of cattle that have the attributes of efficiency, fertility and reduced enteric CH4. Prepubertal heifers genomically selected for favourable traits can have oocytes recovered to produce IVF embryos. Reproductive technology is predicted to be increasingly adopted to reduce generation interval and accelerate the rate of genetic gain for efficiency, fertility and low CH4 in cattle. The relatively high contribution of cattle to anthropogenic global methane has focussed attention on strategies to reduce enteric CH4 without compromising efficiency and fertility. Assisted reproductive technology has an important role in achieving the goal of multiplying and distributing cattle that have good efficiency, fertility and low CH4.(AU)

Ética e condicionamento de animais selvagens para a aplicação de técnicas de reprodução assistida / Ethics and conditioning of wild animals for the application of assisted reproduction techniques

A relação humano-animal é conhecida desde o período Mesolítico e vem evoluindo ao longo dos anos pela busca de interações cada vez mais positivas. A forma como os animais e os ambientes são tratados abre muitas discussões éticas e morais em várias correntes filosóficas. O fato é que a biodiversidade vem apresentando uma redução expressiva dentro de um contexto de sexta extinção em massa do planeta e, para muitas espécies, trabalhar manejo populacional envolvendo coleções ex situ, seria a única alternativa de sobrevivência. As informações sobre a biologia das espécies selvagens ainda são muito insipientes e, portanto, faz-se necessário desenvolver pesquisas básicas que colaborem com as Técnicas de Reprodução Assistida (ARTs). A possibilidade de se trabalhar dentro do conceito de Conservação Única possibilita uma interconexão entre os planos de ação in situ e ex situ, as ações antrópicas no meio ambiente (sustentabilidade) e as pesquisas que englobam a conservação. Para tanto, utilizar as técnicas de condicionamento, que são prática voltada ao manejo de bem-estar, associadas às biotecnologias reprodutivas tem sido um manejo cada vez mais utilizado, com sucesso para muitas espécies ameaçadas. Animais manejados dentro dos protocolos de boas práticas são grandes candidatos a fazer parte dos programas de conservação integrada.(AU)

The human-animal relationship has been known since the Mesolithic period and has evolved over the years in search of increasingly positive interactions. How animals and environments are treated opens up many ethical and moral discussions in various philosophical currents. The fact is that biodiversity has been showing a significant reduction within the context of the sixth mass extinction on the planet, and, for many species, working on population management involving ex situ collections would be the only alternative for survival. Information on the biology of wild species is still very incipient; therefore, it is necessary to develop basic research that collaborates with Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ARTs). Working within the One Conservation concept enables an interconnection between in situ and ex situ action plans, anthropic environmental actions (sustainability), and research that encompasses conservation. Therefore, using conditioning techniques­a practice aimed at welfare management­associated with reproductive biotechnologies has been increasingly used, with success for many endangered species. Animals handled within suitable practice protocols are great candidates to be part of integrated conservation programs.(AU)

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and genome editing to support a sustainable livestock

This article provides an overview of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and genome engineering to improve livestock production systems for the contribution of global sustainability. Most ruminant production systems are conducted on grassland conditions, as is the case of South American countries that are leaders in meat and milk production worldwide with a well-established grass-feed livestock. These systems have many strengths from an environmental perspective and consumer preferences but requires certain improvements to enhance resource efficiency. Reproductive performance is one of the main challenges particularly in cow-calf operations that usually are conducted under adverse conditions and thus ART can make a great contribution. Fixed-time artificial insemination is applied in South America in large scale programs as 20 to 30% of cows receive this technology every year in each country, with greater calving rate and significant herd genetic gain occurred in this region. Sexed semen has also been increasingly implemented, enhancing resource efficiency by a) obtaining desired female replacement and improving animal welfare by avoiding newborn male sacrifice in dairy industry, or b) alternatively producing male calves for beef industry. In vitro embryo production has been massively applied, with this region showing the greatest number of embryos produced worldwide leading to significant improvement in herd genetics and productivity. Although the contribution of these technologies is considerable, further improvements will be required for a significant livestock transformation and novel biotechnologies such as genome editing are already available. Through the CRISPR/Cas-based system it is possible to enhance food yield and quality, avoid animal welfare concerns, overcome animal health threats, and control pests and invasive species harming food production. In summary, a significant enhancement in livestock productivity and resource efficiency can be made through reproductive technologies and genome editing, improving at the same time profitability for farmers, and global food security and sustainability.(AU)

Spatial distribution of Echinolitorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1882) for intertidal rocky shore in Antofagasta (23° S, Chile) / Distribuição espacial de Echinolitorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1882) para costa rochosa entremarés em Antofagasta (23 ° S, Chile)

The intertidal rocky shores in continental Chile have high species diversity mainly in northern Chile (18-27° S), and one of the most widespread species is the gastropod Echinolittorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1822). The aim of the present study is do a first characterization of spatial distribution of E. peruviana in along rocky shore in Antofagasta town in northern Chile. Individuals were counted in nine different sites that also were determined their spectral properties using remote sensing techniques (LANDSAT ETM+). The results revealed that sites without marked human intervention have more abundant in comparison to sites located in the town, also in all studied sites was found an aggregated pattern, and in six of these sites were found a negative binomial distribution. The low density related to sites with human intervention is supported when spectral properties for sites were included. These results would agree with other similar results for rocky shore in northern and southern Chile.

As costas rochosas entremarés no Chile continental apresentam alta diversidade de espécies, principalmente no norte do país (18-27 ° S), e uma das espécies mais difundidas é o gastrópode Echinolittorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1822). O objetivo do presente estudo é fazer uma primeira caracterização da distribuição espacial de E. peruviana no costão rochoso da cidade de Antofagasta no norte do Chile. Os indivíduos foram contados em nove locais diferentes onde também foram determinadas suas propriedades espectrais usando técnicas de sensoriamento remoto (LANDSAT ETM +). Os resultados revelaram que os locais sem intervenção humana marcada apresentam maior abundância em comparação aos locais localizados no município. Também em todos os locais estudados foi encontrado um padrão agregado, sendo que em seis desses locais foi encontrada uma distribuição binomial negativa. A baixa densidade relacionada a sites com intervenção humana é suportada quando as propriedades espectrais para sites foram incluídas. Esses resultados concordariam com outros resultados semelhantes para costões rochosos no norte e no sul do Chile.

Spatial distribution of Echinolitorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1882) for intertidal rocky shore in Antofagasta (23° S, Chile) / Distribuição espacial de Echinolitorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1882) para costa rochosa entremarés em Antofagasta (23 ° S, Chile)

The intertidal rocky shores in continental Chile have high species diversity mainly in northern Chile (18-27° S), and one of the most widespread species is the gastropod Echinolittorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1822). The aim of the present study is do a first characterization of spatial distribution of E. peruviana in along rocky shore in Antofagasta town in northern Chile. Individuals were counted in nine different sites that also were determined their spectral properties using remote sensing techniques (LANDSAT ETM+). The results revealed that sites without marked human intervention have more abundant in comparison to sites located in the town, also in all studied sites was found an aggregated pattern, and in six of these sites were found a negative binomial distribution. The low density related to sites with human intervention is supported when spectral properties for sites were included. These results would agree with other similar results for rocky shore in northern and southern Chile.(AU)

As costas rochosas entremarés no Chile continental apresentam alta diversidade de espécies, principalmente no norte do país (18-27 ° S), e uma das espécies mais difundidas é o gastrópode Echinolittorina peruviana (Lamarck, 1822). O objetivo do presente estudo é fazer uma primeira caracterização da distribuição espacial de E. peruviana no costão rochoso da cidade de Antofagasta no norte do Chile. Os indivíduos foram contados em nove locais diferentes onde também foram determinadas suas propriedades espectrais usando técnicas de sensoriamento remoto (LANDSAT ETM +). Os resultados revelaram que os locais sem intervenção humana marcada apresentam maior abundância em comparação aos locais localizados no município. Também em todos os locais estudados foi encontrado um padrão agregado, sendo que em seis desses locais foi encontrada uma distribuição binomial negativa. A baixa densidade relacionada a sites com intervenção humana é suportada quando as propriedades espectrais para sites foram incluídas. Esses resultados concordariam com outros resultados semelhantes para costões rochosos no norte e no sul do Chile.(AU)

The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction

It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.(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)

Comparison of efficiency between two artificial insemination methods using fresh semen in domestic cat (Felis Catus) / Comparação da eficiência entre dois métodos de inseminação artificial utilizando sêmen fresco em gata doméstica (Felis Catus)

This study aimed to compare domestic cats' pregnancy rates using fresh semen for the bilateral intrauterine insemination (BIUI) method and the novel uterine body insemination (UBI) method. Queens received a single injection of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) (200 IU; IM) to induce ovarian follicular development and, after 83 h, an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) (100 IU; IM) for final oocyte maturation and ovulation induction. Thirty-four hours after hCG administration, 3 × 106fresh spermatozoa were used for insemination by the BIUI (n = 8 queens) or by the UBI (n = 7 queens) techniques,respectively. Pregnancy rates were 75.00% (6/8) by BIUI and 42.85% (3/7) by the UBI method. Themean litter size was 3.0 ± 0.86 for the BIUI, and 2.0 ± 1.0 for the UBI method. Spontaneous abortion occurred on day 35 of pregnancy in one queen following the UBI method. Our findings showed that the BIUI of queens with fresh semen resulted in higher pregnancy rates than the novel UBI method; also, acceptable pregnancy rates were achieved following BIUI with fresh semen in the domestic cat.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar as taxas de prenhez em gatas domésticas usando sêmen fresco para o método de inseminação intrauterina bilateral (BIUI) e o novo método de inseminação do corpo uterino (UBI). As gatas receberam uma única injeção de gonadotrofina coriônica equina (eCG) (200 UI; IM) para induzir o desenvolvimento folicular ovariano e, após 83 h, uma injeção de gonadotrofina coriônica humana (hCG) (100 UI; IM) para maturação final do oócito e ovulação indução. Trinta e quatro horas após a administração de hCG, 3 × 106 espermatozoides frescos foram utilizados para inseminação pelas técnicas de BIUI (n = 8 gatas) ou UBI (n = 7 gatas), respectivamente. As taxas de gravidez foram de 75,00% (6/8) pela BIUI e 42,85% (3/7) pelo método UBI. O tamanho médio da ninhada foi de 3,0 ± 0,86 para o método BIUI e 2,0 ± 1,0 para o método UBI. Aborto espontâneo ocorreu no dia 35 de gestação em uma gata seguindo o método UBI. Nossos achados mostraram que a BIUI de gatas com sêmen fresco resultou em maiores taxas de prenhez do que o novo método UBI; também, taxas de prenhez aceitáveis foram alcançadas após BIUI com sêmen fresco no gato doméstico.(AU)

Reprodução ex situ de felinos silvestres e seus desafios / Challenges of ex situ reproduction in wild cats

A reprodução ex situ de felinos silvestres assegura a sobrevivência das espécies ameaçadas por meio do estabelecimento e manutenção de populações viáveis em cativeiro. O conhecimento da biologia reprodutiva básica é essencial para o desenvolvimento de planos de manejo reprodutivo (PMRs) eficientes, seja pela reprodução natural ou pela aplicação de técnicas de reprodução assistida (TRAs). Os PMRs visam garantir a representatividade das espécies quanto à variabilidade genética e demográfica baseada nos studbooks. Entretanto, o pareamento de animais selecionados pelos PMRs deve levar em conta, além de fatores genéticos e demográficos, fatores comportamentais e o fenótipo dos animais, uma vez que pode haver consequências negativas caso descendentes de gerações futuras sejam reintroduzidos na natureza. As TRAs estão cada vez mais sendo desenvolvidas para auxiliar na manutenção de populações geneticamente viáveis ex situ que possam contribuir geneticamente com populações in situ. A criopreservação de sêmen e a inseminação artificial (IA) são as TRAs utilizadas atualmente pelos PMR nacionais e internacionais, no entanto, são muitos os desafios para que as populações cativas se reproduzam de maneira adequada visando a manutenção de uma população viável que possa contribuir com populações de vida livre no futuro.(AU)

Reproductive management plans are essential to ensure that imperiled populations maintain adequate genetic and demographic variability and remain representative of the species as a whole. Basic reproductive biology knowledge is essential for the development of efficient reproductive management plans (PMPs), either through natural breeding or through assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). The PMPs aim to ensure the representativeness of the species in terms of genetic and demographic variability based on studbooks. However, the specific animal pairings should be maintaining adequate genetic, behavioral and the phenotype of the animals, ensuring proper reintroduction of animals into the wild. ARTs have been explored as a means to enhance the conservation of endangered species, focused on maintaining genetic diversity through enhanced animal propagation. Semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination (AI) are used by national and international PMRs, however, there are many challenges for captive populations reproduction in order to maintain a viable population that can contribute for freeliving populations in the future.(AU)

Reprodução equina: um modelo de ensino / Equine reproduction: a teaching model

Vivemos nos últimos anos um momento difícil em relação ao ensino de qualidade na medicina veterinária brasileira. Por sua vez, a equideocultura brasileira possui destaque internacional pela alta demanda de empregabilidade e pela excelência de seu plantel. Sempre a frente do seu tempo, a Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, a PUCPR, possui um curso de 28 anos de história, onde a excelência no ensino é reconhecida de norte a sul do país. Ao longo dessa história, um dos grandes diferenciais da universidade são os grupos de estudos, que são realizados por áreas específicas no curso e que acontecem no contraturno do estudante. Um dos primeiros grupos de estudos formados na PUCPR, foi em 2003: o Grupo de Estudos em Reprodução Animal. E com um grande interesse dos estudantes pela área de equinos, em 2008 nasce o Grupo de Estudos em Reprodução de Equídeos que perdura até os dias de hoje com o nome de Liga Acadêmica em Reprodução de Equídeos lado a lado da Liga Acadêmica de Reprodução de Bovinos. Desde então, na área da reprodução equina, um trabalho realizado com os estudantes que simula a vida real de um haras de criação e um centro de reprodução equina junto ao rebanho didático da instituição. O que torna esse modelo de ensino da PUCPR especial é como ele é conduzido, levando o estudante através de trilhas ao longo da graduação que permite que ele realmente se forme podendo trabalhar e exercer na plenitude a reprodução equina. Ao longo de 23 anos, se observa que os profissionais ligados a reprodução equina e bovina, egressos do curso de medicina veterinária da PUCPR são referências em renomados criatórios de equinos no Brasil. Com todo esse trabalho desenvolvido ao longo dos 5 anos com esses estudantes temos a tranquilidade e a satisfação de entregar a sociedade profissionais extremamente capacitados, e prontos para o mercado do cavalo, de forma ética e respeitando os cavalos e todas as formas de bem-estar animal.(AU)

In recent years, we have experienced a difficult time in relation to quality teaching in Brazilian veterinary medicine. On the other hand, the Brazilian equideoculture has international prominence due to the high demand for employability and the excellence of its herd. Always ahead of its time, the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, PUCPR, has a course of 28 years of history, where excellence in teaching is recognized from north to south of the country. Throughout this history, one of the great differentials of the university are the study groups, which are carried out by specific areas in the course, and which take place in the student's after-school period. One of the first study groups formed at PUCPR was in 2003: the Animal Reproduction Study Group. And with a great interest of students in the equine area, in 2008 the Equine Reproduction Study Group was born, which lasts until today under the name of Academic League in Equine Reproduction side by side with the Academic League of Bovine Reproduction. Since then, around equine reproduction, work has been carried out with students that simulates the real life of a stud farm and an equine reproduction center with the institution's didactic herd. What makes this PUCPR teaching model special is how it is conducted, taking the student through paths throughout graduation that allow him to really graduate, being able to work and fully exercise equine reproduction. Over 23 years, it has been observed that professionals linked to equine and bovine reproduction, graduates of the PUCPR Veterinary Medicine course, are references in renowned equine breeding centers in Brazil. With all this work developed over the 5 years with these students, we have the tranquility and satisfaction of delivering extremely qualified professionals to society, ready for the horse market, ethically and respecting horses and all forms of welfare animal.(AU)

Maternal contributions to pregnancy success: from gamete quality to uterine environment

The establishment and maintenance of a pregnancy that goes to term is sine qua non for the long-term sustainability of dairy and beef cattle operations. The oocyte plays a critical role in providing the factors necessary for preimplantation embryonic development. Furthermore, the female, or maternal, environment where oocytes and embryos develop is crucial for the establishment and maintenance of a pregnancy to term. During folliculogenesis, the oocyte must sequentially acquire meiotic and developmental competence, which are the results of a series of molecular events preparing the highly specialized gamete to return to totipotency after fertilization. Given that folliculogenesis is a lengthy process in the cow, the occurrence of disease, metabolic imbalances, heat stress, or other adverse events can make it challenging to maintain oocyte quality. Following fertilization, the newly formed embryo must execute a tightly planned program that includes global DNA remodeling, activation of the embryonic genome, and cell fate decisions to form a blastocyst within a few days and cell divisions. The increasing use of assisted reproductive technologies creates an additional layer of complexity to ensure the highest oocyte and embryo quality given that in vitro systems do not faithfully recreate the physiological maternal environment. In this review, we discuss cellular and molecular factors and events known to be crucial for proper oocyte development and maturation, as well as adverse events that may negatively affect the oocyte; and the importance of the uterine environment, including signaling proteins in the maternal-embryonic interactions that ensure proper embryo development. We also discuss the impact of assisted reproductive technologies in oocyte and embryo quality and developmental potential, and considerations when looking into the prospects for developing systems that allow for in vitro gametogenesis as a tool for assisted reproduction in cattle.(AU)

The embryo non-invasive pre-implantation diagnosis era: how far are we?

Advancements in assisted reproduction (AR) methodologies have allowed significant improvements in live birth rates of women who otherwise would not be able to conceive. One of the tools that allowed this improvement is the possibility of embryo selection based on genetic status, performed via preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). Even though the widespread use of PGT from TE biopsy helped to decrease the interval from the beginning of the AR intervention to pregnancy, especially in older patients, in AR, there are still many concerns about the application of this invasive methodology in all cycles. Therefore, recently, researchers started to study the use of cell free DNA (cfDNA) released by the blastocyst in its culture medium to perform PGT, in a method called non-invasive PGT (niPGT). The development of a niPGT would bring the diagnostics power of conventional PGT, but with the advantage of being potentially less harmful to the embryo. Its implementation in clinical practice, however, is under heavy discussion since there are many unknowns about the technique, such as the origin of the cfDNA or if this genetic material is a true representative of the actual ploidy status of the embryo. Available data indicates that there is high correspondence between results observed in TE biopsies and the ones observed from cfDNA, but these results are still contradictory and highly debatable. In the present review, the advantages and disadvantages of niPGT are presented and discussed in relation to tradition TE biopsy-based PGT. Furthermore, there are also presented some other possible non-invasive tools that could be applied in the selection of the best embryo, such as quantification of other molecules as quality biomarkers, or the use artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the best embryos based on morphological and/or morphokitetic parameters.(AU)

Impacto da qualidade seminal e dos fatores relativos ao macho na produção in vitro de embriões bovinos / Impact of semen quality and other male-related factors on in vitro embryo production in cattle

A importância da qualidade do sêmen no processo comercial de produção in vitro de embriões (PIVE) é bem conhecida, ainda que não devidamente relatada na literatura. Existe não apenas uma significativa diferença entre touros nas taxas de clivagem e de blastocistos, mas também nas taxas de prenhezes subsequentes. Adicionalmente, há evidências de interação entre touro e tecnologia de processamento do sêmen (particularmente na separação de espermatozoides por sexo), entre touro e protocolo de preparação do sêmen para fertilização in vitro, e ainda entre touro e doadora. Controlar estes efeitos em uma rotina comercial tem sido um desafio crescente para os laboratórios, particularmente com a alta oferta de novos touros decorrente da recente adoção da seleção genômica. O presente trabalho aborda algumas destas questões, com base na experiência da Bio Biotecnologia da Reprodução Animal nesta área.(AU)

The importance of semen quality in a commercial in vitro embryo production (IVEP) routine is well-known, although underreported in the literature. There is not only a significant difference among sires on cleavage and blastocyst rates, but also on subsequent pregnancy rates. Moreover, there are evidences of interaction between sire and sperm processing technology (particularly in the case of sex-sorted semen), between sire and the protocol for sperm preparation for in vitro fertilization, and between sire and donor. Controlling such effects in a commercial routine has been a growing challenge for the laboratories, especially due to the high turnover of sires caused by the recent adoption of genomic selection in most breeds. The current study discusses some of these aspects, from the perspective of the experience of Bio Biotecnologia da Reprodução Animal in this field.(AU)

A realistic model for vasectomy reversal training using swine testicles

Purpose: To evaluate the viability of the porcine vas deferens as a realistic microsurgical training model for vasectomy reversal Methods: The model uses swine testicles (vas deferent), which are usually discarded in large street markets since they are not part of Brazilian cuisine. The spermatic cord was carefully dissected, and the vas deferens were isolated, measuring 10 cm in length. A paper quadrilateral with 5 cm2 was built to delimit the surgical training field. The objective of the model is to simulate only the microsurgical step when the vas deferens are already isolated. The parameters analyzed were: feasibility for reproducing the technique, patency before and after performing the vasovasostomy, cost of the model, ease of acquisition, ease of handling, execution time, and model reproducibility. Results: The simulator presented low cost. All models made were viable with a texture similar to human, with positive patency obtained in 100% of the procedures. The internal and external diameters of the vas deferens varied between 0.2-0.4 mm and 2-3 mm, respectively, with a mean length of 9 ± 1.2 cm. The total procedure time was 43.28 ± 3.22 minutes. Conclusions: The realistic model presented proved to be viable for carrying out vasectomy reversal training, due to its low cost, easy acquisition, and easy handling, and providing similar tissue characteristics to humans.

Lipid profile and metabolic parameters of tilapia in the finishing phase in earth ponds or using biofloc technology

Tilapia is a species with great growth potential. Its production comes from a semi-intensive system, such as earthen ponds (EP). Recently, biofloc technology (BFT) appears as an option to intensify fish production. The objective of this work was to compare the organosomatic indices, biochemical parameters, and chemical composition of tilapia reared in EP and BFT. Fish were grown for 150 days, with an initial weight of ≅ 2 g and a final weight of ≅ 780 g. Thereafter, tissues and organs were collected to determine organosomatic indices and analyze biochemical parameters, fatty acid, and proximate composition. The carcass yield was higher for tilapia reared in EP than BFT. The production system did not affect the fish fillet yield. The other organosomatic parameters were higher for tilapia reared in BFT. Tilapia reared in EP showed higher content of crude protein and lipids in the fillet. In both production systems, there was no difference in the body lipid profile. Fish in BFT showed a higher concentration of glucose and ammonia in the muscle and amino acids in the liver. Fish reared in EP showed a higher concentration of lactate in the liver compared to those in BFT. In conclusion, the production system alters the metabolism of fish. The biofloc has a considerable amount of fatty acids, which can be considered in the formulation of diets for tilapia in this system.(AU)

Colheita de sêmen e inseminação artificial em onças-pintadas (Panthera onca) / Semen collection and artificial insemination in jaguars (Panthera onca)

A onça-pintada encontra-se classificada como "quase ameaçada" na lista vermelha de animais ameaçados da União Internacional para Conservação da Natureza (IUCN), com tendência ao declínio na América Latina, o que pode afetar o fluxo gênico elevando o risco de endogamia. Técnicas de reprodução assistida (TRAs) como colheita de sêmen e inseminação artificial (IA), são ferramentas que podem se tornar essenciais a manutenção da diversidade genética desses animais. A colheita de sêmen pode ser realizada por eletroejaculação (EEJ) ou colheita farmacológica (CF), sendo que podem ser aplicadas individualmente ou associadas, embora EEJ tenha se mostrado mais eficiente em inseminação artificial (IA) com sêmen a fresco. Para realização de IA a utilização de progestina oral (altrenogest), seguida da aplicação de gonadotropinas exógenas (Gonadotropina Coriônica equina-eCG e Hormônio Luteinizante suíno-pLH), tem se mostrado eficiente, promovendo ovulações consistentes. IA intratubárica (IA-IT) mostrou-se eficiente, tendo a vantagem de utilizar sêmen com baixo número de espermatozoides. O sucesso alcançado com o nascimento do primeiro filhote de Panthera onca utilizando TRAs se deve a vários fatores, dentre eles, a utilização de um novo protocolo hormonal ajustado à espécie; e a utilização da IA-IT, que possibilitou a utilização de sêmen com reduzido número de espermatozoides viáveis por inseminação.(AU)

The jaguar is classified as "near threatened" according International Union for Conservation of Nature red list, with a decreasing trend in the population of Latin America, increasing the risk of inbreeding. Assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs), such as semen collection and artificial insemination (AI), are tools that can become essential to maintain the genetic diversity of jaguars. Semen collection can be performed by electroejaculation (EEJ) or pharmacological collection (PC); and can be applied individually or associated, however EEJ was more efficient for artificial insemination (AI) with fresh semen. To perform Artificial Insemination (AI), oral progestin (altrenogest) followed exogenous gonadotropins (Gonadotropin Chorionic equine-eCG e Hormone Luteinizing porcine-pLH) application was efficient, promoting consistent ovulations. Similarly, laparoscopic oviductal insemination (IA-IT) was efficient, with the advantage to use low viable spermatozoa number by insemination. The success of jaguar cub birth using ARTs is due to several factors, among than, a new hormonal protocol adjusted to the species; and the use of IA-IT, which allowed the reduction in the number of sperm by insemination.(AU)

Collecting information on estrus in cattle using the internet of things / Recolha de informações sobre o cio em bovinos utilizando a internet of things

Monitoring the movements of ruminant animals is one of the most challenging tasks. In animals that act according to their habits, it is difficult to label such movements and transfer them to farmers. Monitoring and recording the movement and behavior of animals on a farm is an adopted method for successfully determining the duration of the estrus cycle in ruminant animals. The Internet is a technology that offers remarkable solutions for such applications. The aim of this study is to determine the hourly step counts and to find the estrus period in the most accurate way with a circuit design applied to the ankles of animals using an IoT-supported microcontroller. The data is transferred to the web environment wirelessly and monitored via wi-fi communication signals. This wireless wearable and network equipment determines the step count and monitors the animal's abnormal body temperature. An IoT-supported microcontroller provides wireless communication, high-speed data transmission, and low power consumption. Insemination was ensured by testing different animals on the application farm. The data is monitored in real-time, and the system gives an alert. Low cost, high reliability, and being able to be watched over the internet are the advantages of the system. This study helped develop new techniques and provided a low-cost proposition for testing wearable technologies on animals.

A monitorização dos movimentos dos animais ruminantes é uma das tarefas mais difíceis. Em animais que agem de acordo com os seus hábitos, é difícil rotular esses movimentos e transferi-los para os agricultores. A monitorização e o registo dos movimentos e do comportamento dos animais numa exploração é um método adoptado para determinar com êxito a duração do ciclo de cio em animais ruminantes. A Internet é uma tecnologia que oferece soluções notáveis para tais aplicações. O objectivo deste estudo é determinar as contagens horárias de passos e encontrar o período de cio da forma mais precisa possível com um design de circuito aplicado aos tornozelos dos animais utilizando um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT. Os dados são transferidos para o ambiente Web sem fios e monitorizados através de sinais de comunicação wi-fi. Este equipamento vestível e de rede sem fios determina a contagem de passos e monitoriza a temperatura corporal anormal do animal. Um microcontrolador suportado pela IoT fornece comunicação sem fios, transmissão de dados a alta velocidade e baixo consumo de energia. A inseminação foi assegurada através de testes com diferentes animais na quinta de aplicação. Os dados são monitorizados em tempo real e o sistema emite um alerta. O baixo custo, a elevada fiabilidade e a possibilidade de ser observado através da Internet são as vantagens do sistema. Este estudo ajudou a desenvolver novas técnicas e forneceu uma proposta de baixo custo para testar tecnologias vestíveis em animais.

Consequential study on different levels of C/N ratios used in biofloc-based aquaculture system / Estudo consequente sobre diferentes níveis de proporções C/N utilizadas no sistema de aquicultura à base de biofloc

Biofloc technology is much highlighted these days because of its tremendous effects on aquaculture. Microbes were enriched on cheapest organic carbon source i. e., powdered banana peels and were incorporated in different aquaria rearing grass carp fingerlings under different C/N treatments (10:1, 15:1 and 20:1) and 10% water daily water exchange. The initial growth of fingerlings was recorded. The experiment was settled in triplicates for 60 days and run parallel to control group provided with commercial feed and daily water exchange. Its effect was evaluated by measuring the growth of fingerlings and water parameters of each aquarium. The average % gain in weight and length of fingerlings was obtained significantly highest (28.12 ± 0.30g and 17.29 ± 0.46cm respectively) in aquaria containing pure powdered banana peels with 10% water exchange and C/N ratio was adjusted at 20: 1 (T3) than other treatments and control. Ammonia and other water parameters were also under control in T3 than other experimental and control groups. By all counts, it was concluded that the highest C/N ratio in biofloc system had the potential to increment C. idella growth rate by reducing toxicity and could be used as fish meal substitute.

A tecnologia Biofloc é muito destacada hoje em dia por causa de seus tremendos efeitos na aquicultura. Os micróbios foram enriquecidos com a fonte de carbono orgânico mais barata, i. e., cascas de banana em pó, e foram incorporadas em diferentes aquários de criação de alevinos de carpa-capim sob diferentes tratamentos C/N (10: 1, 15: 1 e 20: 1) e 10% de troca diária de água. O crescimento inicial dos alevinos foi registrado. O experimento foi resolvido em triplicatas por 60 dias e executado paralelamente ao grupo controle fornecido com ração comercial e troca diária de água. Seu efeito foi avaliado medindo o crescimento dos alevinos e os parâmetros da água de cada aquário. O% de ganho médio em peso e comprimento dos alevinos foi obtido significativamente mais alto (28,12 ± 0,30g e 17,29 ± 0,46 cm respectivamente) em aquários contendo cascas de banana em pó puro com 10% de troca de água e a relação C/N foi ajustada em 20: 1 (T3) do que outros tratamentos e controle. A amônia e outros parâmetros da água também estavam sob controle no T3 mais do que nos outros grupos experimentais e de controle. Por todas as contagens, concluiu-se que a maior razão C/N no sistema de bioflocos tem o potencial de incrementar a taxa de crescimento de C. idella reduzindo a toxicidade e pode ser usada como substituto da farinha de peixe.

Consequential study on different levels of C/N ratios used in biofloc-based aquaculture system / Estudo consequente sobre diferentes níveis de proporções C/N utilizadas no sistema de aquicultura à base de biofloc

Biofloc technology is much highlighted these days because of its tremendous effects on aquaculture. Microbes were enriched on cheapest organic carbon source i. e., powdered banana peels and were incorporated in different aquaria rearing grass carp fingerlings under different C/N treatments (10:1, 15:1 and 20:1) and 10% water daily water exchange. The initial growth of fingerlings was recorded. The experiment was settled in triplicates for 60 days and run parallel to control group provided with commercial feed and daily water exchange. Its effect was evaluated by measuring the growth of fingerlings and water parameters of each aquarium. The average % gain in weight and length of fingerlings was obtained significantly highest (28.12 ± 0.30g and 17.29 ± 0.46cm respectively) in aquaria containing pure powdered banana peels with 10% water exchange and C/N ratio was adjusted at 20: 1 (T3) than other treatments and control. Ammonia and other water parameters were also under control in T3 than other experimental and control groups. By all counts, it was concluded that the highest C/N ratio in biofloc system had the potential to increment C. idella growth rate by reducing toxicity and could be used as fish meal substitute.(AU)

A tecnologia Biofloc é muito destacada hoje em dia por causa de seus tremendos efeitos na aquicultura. Os micróbios foram enriquecidos com a fonte de carbono orgânico mais barata, i. e., cascas de banana em pó, e foram incorporadas em diferentes aquários de criação de alevinos de carpa-capim sob diferentes tratamentos C/N (10: 1, 15: 1 e 20: 1) e 10% de troca diária de água. O crescimento inicial dos alevinos foi registrado. O experimento foi resolvido em triplicatas por 60 dias e executado paralelamente ao grupo controle fornecido com ração comercial e troca diária de água. Seu efeito foi avaliado medindo o crescimento dos alevinos e os parâmetros da água de cada aquário. O% de ganho médio em peso e comprimento dos alevinos foi obtido significativamente mais alto (28,12 ± 0,30g e 17,29 ± 0,46 cm respectivamente) em aquários contendo cascas de banana em pó puro com 10% de troca de água e a relação C/N foi ajustada em 20: 1 (T3) do que outros tratamentos e controle. A amônia e outros parâmetros da água também estavam sob controle no T3 mais do que nos outros grupos experimentais e de controle. Por todas as contagens, concluiu-se que a maior razão C/N no sistema de bioflocos tem o potencial de incrementar a taxa de crescimento de C. idella reduzindo a toxicidade e pode ser usada como substituto da farinha de peixe.(AU)

A bibliometric and scientometric analysis on the use of UAVs in agriculture, livestock and forestry / Uma análise bibliométrica e cientométrica sobre o uso de VANTs na agricultura, pecuária e silvicultura

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the agricultural and forestry sectors has constantly evolved due to its great versatility and applicability in the field. In this sense, this study provided a statistical overview of studies on the use of UAVs in agricultural and forestry through a bibliometric and scientometric analysis. For that, a research was carried out on the Scopus platform using the terms UAV, UAS, drone, and RPA, together with "agricult*" or "forest* or livestock". Only manuscripts published in English and from January 2000 to December 2020 were selected. The VOSviewer software was used for the analyses. The USA and China were responsible for more than 38% of the publications worldwide. Furthermore, about 50% of the countries in the world showed some scientific record of the use of UAVs in agricultural and forestry studies. The term UAS was more used until 2016, while UAV was more mentioned between 2017 and 2018. Conversely, drone was more endorsed from 2019. The constant increase in scientific production reported in the research and the evolution of the co-occurrence of keywords corroborated two ideas: i) the use of UAVs is still undergoing transformations and is directly related to the advancement of technology included in these equipments; and ii) studies are still not enough to explore all the applicability of the UAVs in agriculture, livestock and forestry.

A utilização de veículos aéreos não tripulados (VANTs) nos setores agrícola e florestal tem evoluído constantemente devido a sua grande versatilidade e aplicabilidade no campo. Nesse sentido, este trabalho teve como objetivo fornecer um panorama estatístico dos estudos sobre o uso de VANTs na agropecuária e silvicultura por meio de uma análise bibliométrica e cientométrica. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa na plataforma Scopus utilizando os termos UAV, UAS, drone e RPA, juntamente com "agricult*" ou "forest* ou livestock". Foram selecionados apenas manuscritos publicados em inglês, de janeiro de 2000 a dezembro de 2020. O software VOSviewer foi utilizado para as análises. Os EUA e a China foram responsáveis por mais de 38% das publicações mundiais. Além disso, cerca de 50% dos países do mundo apresentaram algum registro científico do uso de VANTs em estudos agrícolas e florestais. O termo UAS foi mais utilizado até 2016, enquanto o UAV foi mais mencionado entre 2017 e 2018. Por outro lado, drone foi mais endossado a partir de 2019. O constante aumento da produção científica encontrado nas pesquisas e a evolução da coocorrência de palavras-chave corroboraram duas ideias: i) o uso de VANTs ainda está passando por transformações e está diretamente relacionado ao avanço da tecnologia inserida nesses equipamentos; e ii) os estudos ainda não são suficientes para explorar toda a aplicabilidade dos VANTs na agricultura, pecuária e silvicultura.