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)

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.

Assessment of thermal response, cardiorespiratory parameters and post-operative analgesia in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy with different combinations of epidural analgesia and isoflurane

This study aimed to evaluate the thermal response of the eyelids and lacrimal gland of the left eye (LETG) through infrared thermography (IRT), cardiorespiratory parameters, and their association with nociception and pain in bitches undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH) anesthetized with isoflurane and epidural analgesia. Twenty-one healthy bitches of different breeds were randomized into three groups receiving epidural blocks: GL (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ); GLF (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ) and fentanyl (3 µg Kg-1 ); and GLM (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ) with morphine (0.1 mg Kg-1 ). IRT and cardiorespiratory parameters were evaluated at baseline (Ebasal), thirty minutes before anesthetic premedication, and at different surgical events: first incision (EInc), ligature and section of the left (ELoV), and right (ERoV) ovarian pedicle, ligature, and re-section of the cervix (EUt), and skin suture (ESut). The assessment of acute pain in the immediate post-operative period was registered at E1h, E2h, and E3h using IRT, the Dynamic Interactive Visual Analogic Scale (DIVAS), and the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) scales. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in the lower eyelid surface temperature (LELT) during EInc for GL (32.9°C ± 0.62), in comparison to GLF (34.2°C ± 0.62) and GLM (35.3°C ± 0.62) (P = 0.006). Regarding LETG, a significant increase (P = 0.03) in the IRT of Ebasal (36.8°C ± 0.63) and EInc (36.1°C ± 0.63) for GLM was observed in comparison to the thermographic values for both perioperative events and groups. The GLM showed a significant decrease in IRT values of ERoV at E3h in the upper and lower eyelids (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01, respectively). A progressive and significant reduction of the IRT values of LETG was also recorded in GLM, with differences in ERoV (35.2 °C ± 0.63) (P = 0.02) and E3h (35.3 °C ± 0.63) (P = 0.01). The cardiovascular parameters (SAP, DAP, and MAP) did not differ between treatments, but in GL, there was a significant difference (P = 0.01) during EInc and ESut, compared to Ebasal. In the body temperature, EInc and ESut gradually decreased in all treatment groups (P = 0.01). In conclusion, hemodynamic and cardiorespiratory stability was associated with IRT readings and the absence of nociception. Changes in superficial temperature in the immediate post-operative period were lessened using isoflurane and epidural analgesia of lidocaine alone or in combination with pure opioids. These findings were clinically validated to the DIVAS and UMPS acute pain assessment scales.

Hermafroditismo verdadeiro na espécie suína / True hermaphroditism in the swine specie

Os hermafroditas verdadeiros são animais com intersexualidade, nos quais as gônadas masculinas e femininas se desenvolvem simultaneamente no mesmo indivíduo. Este trabalho relata um caso de hermafrodita na espécie suína após descarte de uma fêmea por diagnóstico de anestro. Tratava-se de uma fêmea com 222 dias de idade e 150 kg a qual havia sido selecionada para reprodução e permanecia em anestro. O indivíduo foi descartado e enviado para o abate em frigorífico sob inspeção federal. Após o abate foi observado no sistema genital aspectos anatômicos sugestivos de hermafroditismo. O sistema genital foi coletado, inspecionado macroscopicamente e conservado em formol a 10% para avaliação microscópica. Durante a análise macroscópica foi verificada a presença de vulva e vagina, contendo um pênis rudimentar. O útero, a cérvix, os cornos uterinos e oviduto estavam presentes e com ausência de anormalidade. Havia um ovário esquerdo com aspectos morfológicos de ciclicidade e folículos contendo oócitos de alta qualidade. À direita, entretanto, foi constatada a presença de um testículo, epidídimo e plexo pampiniforme. A avaliação histopatológica comprovou os achados macroscópicos, demonstrando um ovário contendo folículos, corpos lúteos e cistos foliculares; plexo pampiniforme; testículo e epidídimo com aspecto histológico normal, porém, com ausência de células espermatogênicas. Assim, com base nos achados macro e microscópicos descritos nesse relato de caso, o indivíduo foi considerado como hermafrodita verdadeiro.(AU)

True hermaphrodites are intersexual animals, in which both male and female gonads develop simultaneously in the same individual. This paper reports a case of a true hermaphrodite in the swine species after its culling for anestrus. The specimen was a female of 222 days of age and 150 kg of body weight, that was selected for reproduction and was permanently in anestrus. This individual was culled and sent to an abattoir under federal inspection. After slaughtering, it was observed in the reproductive tract anatomical aspects that suggested hermaphroditism. The reproductive tract was collected, evaluated macroscopically, and preserved in formaldehyde at 10 % to be evaluated by light microscopy. During the macroscopic analysis, the presence of a vulva and a vagina with a rudimentary penis was detected. The uterus, the cervix, uterine horns, and the oviduct were present and abnormalities were not detected. The left ovary exhibited morphological signs of cyclicity and contained follicles with high quality oocytes. On the right side, however, it was observed a testicle, epididymis, and a pampiniform plexus. The histopathological assessment corroborated the macroscopic findings, which demonstrated that the ovary had follicles, corpus luteum, and follicular cysts, and pampiniform plexus, testicle and epididymis were histologically normal, though with the absence of spermatogenic cells. Thus, based on the macro and microscopic findings described herein, the individual was considered a true hermaphrodite.(AU)

Surgical sterilization of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): "Passos Nunes" uterine horn ligature

Capybaras are the primary hosts of Amblyomma sculptum tick, vectors of Rickettsia rickettsia bacteria, and the zoonotic agent of Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF). In this context, contraceptive methods have been suggested for population control in order to reduce the number of free-ranging capybaras cohabiting with humans in urban and rural areas and acting as disease amplifiers. To maintain the group's expected behavior and social hierarchy, sterilization techniques that preserve the gonads are recommended. On 126 female capybaras in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, a new surgical technique named "Passos Nunes" uterine horn ligature was performed after adequate general anesthesia. It achieved effective surgical sterilization, with an incision length of about 3 cm in the periumbilical linea alba, cranial to the pubis. After entering the abdominal cavity, the urinary bladder is pulled laterally to access the uterine horns and the cervix. The uterine horn is folded up, forming a strap; the distal portion of the strap is ligated and its distal end sectioned. The exact process is performed on the opposite horn. After the surgical procedure, the musculature is sutured in a sultan pattern and the subcutaneous tissue with a horizontal mattress pattern. The skin is sutured in a separate simple format, using nylon 2.0 for all steps. The wide exposure of the uterine horns facilitates the confirmation of pregnancy, allowing the surgeon to choose between salpingo hysterectomy or ligature of the uterine horns. The present study presents a new technique of surgical sterilization that can be used in female free-ranging mammals in which maintenance of the gonads is recommended, and births of offspring should not occur.(AU)

Perspectives of intrauterine artificial insemination applicability in gilts / Perspectivas de aplicabilidade da inseminação artificial intrauterina em leitoas

The application of the intrauterine artificial insemination (IUAI) technique allows optimization of a swine production system due to the reductions in volume and number of sperm cells in the insemination dose, and by reducing the time taken to perform the insemination. However, IUAI is not recommended for gilts due to the difficulty of intrauterine cannula passage through the cervix. This difficulty is associated mainly with the fact that the reproductive tract is smaller in gilts than in pluriparous females. However, few studies have evaluated the application of IUAI in gilts. In these studies, there are variations in approach concerning the definition of the success rate for cannula passage through the cervix, the type of cannula and the body characteristics of the gilts used, making it difficult to extrapolate the recommendation for the use of IUAI in gilts. Considering the evidence that such characteristics influence or even determine the success of the application of IUAI, there is a necessity for an understanding of the influence of these factors in the improvement and later application of the technique. Gilts represent about 15-20% of the breeding group, and the use of IUAI could optimize the processes of insemination on farms. The approach used in this review highlights the aspects that could aid in structuring further studies for improving IUAI in gilts, allowing its use on commercial farms.(AU)

A aplicação da técnica de inseminação artificial intrauterina (IAU) permitiu uma otimização do sistema de produção de suínos por possibilitar a redução do volume e número de células espermáticas na dose inseminante e, também, por diminuir o tempo de execução da inseminação. Porém, a IAU não tem sido recomendada para leitoas devido à dificuldade de passagem do cateter intrauterino através da cérvix. Essa dificuldade é associada principalmente ao menor tamanho do trato reprodutivo de leitoas se comparado ao das fêmeas pluríparas. Entretanto, ainda são poucos os estudos que avaliaram a aplicação de IAU em leitoas. Nesses estudos, existem variações quanto à definição da taxa de sucesso na inserção do cateter através da cérvix, ao tipo de cateter e, também, quanto às características corporais das matrizes utilizadas, dificultando extrapolações de recomendação do uso da IAU em leitoas. Considerando os indícios de que tais características podem influenciar ou, até mesmo, determinar o sucesso de aplicação da técnica, ainda há necessidade de compreender a influência desses fatores para que a técnica possa ser aprimorada e posteriormente aplicada. Leitoas representam cerca de 15 a 20% do grupo de cobertura e viabilizar a IAU nessa categoria pode otimizar os processos de inseminação nas granjas. A abordagem realizada nessa revisão traz aspectos que podem auxiliar na estruturação de futuros estudos para aprimorar a IAU em leitoas e permitir seu emprego em granjas comerciais.(AU)

Retirada de corpo estranho (dispositivo impregnado com progesterona) da cavidade abdominal de novilha da raça Jersey ­ relato de caso / Removal of a foreign body (progesterone impregnated device) from the abdominal cavity of a Jersey heifer ­ a case report / Extracción de cuerpo extraño (dispositivo impregnado con progesterona) de la cavidad abdominal de novilla raza Jersey - reporte de caso

A inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) é uma biotécnica com inúmeras vantagens para a produção de bovinos. Para a realização da IATF, as fêmeas bovinas devem receber um protocolo farmacológico que induz a ovulação de forma sincronizada. Esse protocolo inicia com a inserção de um dispositivo impregnado com progesterona que deve permanecer no fundo vaginal da fêmea por tempo determinado. O presente relato tem por objetivo descrever a remoção de um implante impregnado com progesterona que foi encontrado na cavidade abdominal de uma novilha. Durante um atendimento reprodutivo de rotina em uma propriedade rural, uma novilha da raça Jersey, recém-adquirida, com histórico de ter sido submetida à IATF, foi avaliada para diagnóstico de gestação. No exame a novilha não estava gestante e apresentava um cisto folicular ovariano. A novilha foi submetida novamente à IATF em que foi inserido e removido um implante, com isso o cisto regrediu e ao inseminar a novilha não foi possível passar a cérvix com o aplicador. Vinte dias após a inseminação a novilha manifestou estro e ao ser avaliada para nova inseminação, foi identificado um implante solto na cavidade abdominal da novilha. Foi realizada uma laparotomia pelo flanco esquerdo e o implante foi removido. Após a recuperação da cirurgia a novilha foi inseminada e novamente e ficou gestante. Os protocolos de IATF devem ser realizados por profissionais capacitados para evitar problemas como a presente situação em que um implante foi encontrado na cavidade abdominal de uma novilha.(AU)

The fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) is a biotechnique with numerous advantages for cattle production. In order to perform the FTAI, the cows must receive a pharmacological protocol to induce ovulation in a synchronized way. This protocol begins with the insertion of a device impregnated with progesterone that must remain in the vaginal fundus of the cow for a specific period of time. This report aims at describing the removal of a progesterone impregnated implant that was found in the abdominal cavity of a heifer. During a routine reproductive service in a rural property, a recently acquired Jersey heifer, with history of having been submitted to FTAI, was evaluated for pregnancy diagnosis. At the exam, it was observed that the heifer was not pregnant and presented an ovarian follicular cyst. The heifer was then submitted to FTAI again, where an implant was inserted and removed. This made the cyst to recede, and upon subsequent insemination, the applicator was not able to pass the cervix. Twenty days after insemination, the heifer was in estrus and when it was evaluated for insemination, a loose implant was identified in the abdominal cavity of the heifer. A laparotomy was performed through the left flank and the implant was removed. After recovery from the surgery, the heifer was inseminated again and became pregnant. The FTAI protocols should only be carried out by trained professionals to avoid problems such as the one presented herein, where an implant was found in the abdominal cavity of a heifer.(AU)

La inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo (FTAI) es una biotécnica con numerosas ventajas para la producción de ganado. Para realizar FTAI, las hembras bovinas deben recibir un protocolo farmacológico que induzca la ovulación de forma sincronizada. Este protocolo comienza con la inserción de un dispositivo impregnado con progesterona que debe permanecer en el fondo vaginal de la hembra durante un tiempo específico. Este informe tiene como objetivo describir la extracción de un implante impregnado de progesterona que se encontró en la cavidad abdominal de una novilla. Durante la atención reproductiva de rutina en una propiedad rural, se evaluó el diagnóstico de preñez de una novilla de Jersey recién adquirida con antecedentes de someterse a FTAI. En el examen, la novilla no estaba embarazada y tenía un quiste folicular ovárico. La novilla fue nuevamente sometida a FTAI, en la cual se insertó y removió un implante, con esto el quiste retrocedió y al inseminar a la novilla no fue posible pasar el cérvix con el aplicador. Veinte días después de la inseminación, la vaquilla manifestó estro y cuando se evaluó para una nueva inseminación, se identificó un implante suelto en la cavidad abdominal de la vaquilla. Se realizó una laparotomía a través del flanco izquierdo y se extrajo el implante. Después de recuperarse de la cirugía, la novilla fue inseminada y nuevamente quedó embarazada. Los protocolos FTAI deben ser realizados por profesionales capacitados para evitar problemas como la situación actual donde se encontró un implante en la cavidad abdominal de una novilla.(AU)

Histeropexia com aplicação de "toggles" para tratamento de piometra em mini horse / Pyometra treatment by histeropexy with toggles aplication in mini horse

Background: Brazil is an important horse breeder that creates about three million jobs and movements about R$16,15 billions per year. Although, it is important to the horse breeding industry success that the animals reproductive performance be kept. The mare pregnancy loss causes abundant forfeitures to horse breeders, furthermore, the chronic pyometra is one of that causes. The chronic pyometra is an uncommon mare condition, clinical treatments are often ineffective, under those circumstances the hysterectomy, ovariohysterectomy and uteropexy are recommended. This report proposes to describe the chronic pyometra surgical treatments with the uteropexy technique in mini horses that do not respond to the clinical treatment. Case: A 14-year-old mini breed horse mare weighing 117 kg was sent to Veterinarian Hospital (HV) of the Paraná Federal University (UFPR), presenting dystocia background and intrauterine purulent secretion. The clinical treatment had been conducted, but not well succeeded. An hysteroscopy was conducted with a cervix rupture monitoring, uterine mucosa edematiated and crispy, presenting liquid and a high amount of purulent secretion in the uterus horn and body. The biopsy identified uteropexy. The post-surgical complications were minimums and 30 days after the procedure the laparoscopy was repeated with uterine healing monitoring, without adherences and the uterus were at horizontal position. The hysteroscopy was conducted where a small amount of purulent secretion was perceived. Ten days after the second laparoscopy the patient was discharged. Two years after the procedure, the animal responsible informed that there was not a relapse. Discussion: the mare pyometra occurrence is uncommon and emerges by nature protection false mechanisms. Any change or flaw in one of these protection mechanics barriers, may result in a reproductive change due to uterine infection, resulting in reduction of mare reproductive capacity. Probably this reports patients developed pyometra due to the cervix lesion it's presented made easier the uterus external microorganisms entrance, that predisposes an chronic uterine infection. As many authors report, the chronic pyometra clinical treatment is not always successful, also observed in the case reported, indicating then surgical treatment. There are many pyometra surgical treatments indications as: Wedge resection technique in case of cervix adherence, uteropexy technique, ovary-hysterectomy technique or hysterectomy. The ovary-hysterectomy and the hysterectomy was not conducted for being considered highly invasive. This case choice procedure was the uteropexy, which corresponds to fixing the broad ligament of the uterus to the abdominal wall, repositioning it horizontally, to obtain a better drainage and motility, since this is your anatomic position. In the report, the surgical technique was conducted satisfactorily, certifying the uterine elevation by laparoscopy in the postoperative and also by the responsible report, that the animal does not relapse in two years. The postoperative complications were not alarming, considering that it ceased 24h after the procedure. The conclusions present in this treatment show that the hysteropexy conducted by videosurgery with toggles application developed the necessary uterine elevation to the liquid drainage, that allows the mare to execute the uterine cleaning by the physiological form.(AU)

Chemotactic behavior of Campylobacter fetus subspecies towards cervical mucus, bovine placenta and selected substances and ion

The chemotaxis of C. fetus subsp. venerealis and C. fetus subsp. fetus was determined in the presence of bovine cervical mucus and bovine placental extract. Some reported substances and ion in those materials, such amino acids, ferrous iron, hormones, sugars and organic acids were also investigated. Bovine cervical mucus, bovine placenta extracts and some substances and ion of these materials namely L–fucose, Laspartate, L–glutamate, L–serine, ferrous iron, fumarate, pyruvate and succinate were chemoattractants. The chemottraction was significantly larger in higher concentrations of the tested substances and ion and significant differences among tested strains were also observed. Meso-erythritol and hormones bovine placental lactogen, 17β-estradiol, and progesterone did not elicit chemotactical response. In conclusion, this chemotactic behavior may guide the C. fetus navigation in the bovine host's genital tract and be an important cofactor of tissue tropism for this bacterium.(AU)

Uterine segmental aplasia in sheep / Aplasia segmentar uterina em ovelhas

The complete absence of one of the uterine horns, named segmental uterine aplasia or unicorn uterus, occurs due to deficiency in the development of segments of the paramesonephric or Mullerian ducts. It is a congenital or hereditary anomaly of the female reproductive tract caused by recessive genes, which occurrence is unusual. In cows, this malformation was initially called “white heifer disease”, comprising an alteration in the Mullerian ducts in association with the white skin gene that causes aplasia of the uterus, cervix and vagina. Two pieces of sheep reproductive system from a slaughterhouse under federal inspection in the state of Bahia, Brazil, were received for pathological diagnosis. The collection, dissection and macroscopic analysis were carried out. In the macroscopic evaluation, uterine segmental aplasia was identified in both cases, with complete absence of the left uterine horns. Both had agenesis of the uterine tubes associated with the absence of internal bifurcation of the uterine horns. Animals that have a unicorn uterus often have reduced fertility which consequently leads to losses to sheep farming.

A ausência completa de um dos cornos uterinos, denominada aplasia uterina segmentar ou útero unicorno, ocorre por deficiência no desenvolvimento de segmentos dos ductos paramesonéfricos ou Mullerianos. É uma anomalia congênita ou hereditária do trato reprodutor da fêmea causada por genes recessivos, é incomum a ocorrência. Em vacas, essa malforma-ção foi denominada inicialmente como “white heifers desease” ou doenças das novilhas brancas, é uma alteração dos ductos Mullerianos em associação com o gene da pele branca que provoca aplasia de útero, colo uterino e vagina. Foi recebido duas peças de sistema reprodutor de ovelhas provenientes de abatedouro frigorífico sob inspeção federal no estado da Bahia, Brasil para diagnóstico patológico. Procedeu-se a coleta, dissecação e análise macroscópica. Na avaliação macroscópica, identificou--se nos dois casos aplasia segmentar uterina, com ausência completa dos cornos uterinos esquerdo. Ambos apresentavam age-nesia das tubas uterinas associada a ausência de bifurcação interna dos cornos uterinos. Animais que possuem um útero uni-corno frequentemente possuem redução da fertilidade e consequentemente podem causar perdas à ovinocultura brasileira.

Uterine segmental aplasia in sheep / Aplasia segmentar uterina em ovelhas

The complete absence of one of the uterine horns, named segmental uterine aplasia or unicorn uterus, occurs due to deficiency in the development of segments of the paramesonephric or Mullerian ducts. It is a congenital or hereditary anomaly of the female reproductive tract caused by recessive genes, which occurrence is unusual. In cows, this malformation was initially called “white heifer disease”, comprising an alteration in the Mullerian ducts in association with the white skin gene that causes aplasia of the uterus, cervix and vagina. Two pieces of sheep reproductive system from a slaughterhouse under federal inspection in the state of Bahia, Brazil, were received for pathological diagnosis. The collection, dissection and macroscopic analysis were carried out. In the macroscopic evaluation, uterine segmental aplasia was identified in both cases, with complete absence of the left uterine horns. Both had agenesis of the uterine tubes associated with the absence of internal bifurcation of the uterine horns. Animals that have a unicorn uterus often have reduced fertility which consequently leads to losses to sheep farming.(AU)

A ausência completa de um dos cornos uterinos, denominada aplasia uterina segmentar ou útero unicorno, ocorre por deficiência no desenvolvimento de segmentos dos ductos paramesonéfricos ou Mullerianos. É uma anomalia congênita ou hereditária do trato reprodutor da fêmea causada por genes recessivos, é incomum a ocorrência. Em vacas, essa malforma-ção foi denominada inicialmente como “white heifers desease” ou doenças das novilhas brancas, é uma alteração dos ductos Mullerianos em associação com o gene da pele branca que provoca aplasia de útero, colo uterino e vagina. Foi recebido duas peças de sistema reprodutor de ovelhas provenientes de abatedouro frigorífico sob inspeção federal no estado da Bahia, Brasil para diagnóstico patológico. Procedeu-se a coleta, dissecação e análise macroscópica. Na avaliação macroscópica, identificou--se nos dois casos aplasia segmentar uterina, com ausência completa dos cornos uterinos esquerdo. Ambos apresentavam age-nesia das tubas uterinas associada a ausência de bifurcação interna dos cornos uterinos. Animais que possuem um útero uni-corno frequentemente possuem redução da fertilidade e consequentemente podem causar perdas à ovinocultura brasileira.(AU)

Técnica de inseminação artificial por tração cervical e função luteal em ovelhas Santa Inês após estro sincronizado com cloprostenol ou progestágeno-eCG / Technique of artificial ins emination by cervical traction and luteal function in Santa Inês ewes after synchronized estrus with cloprostenol or progestagen-eCG

Avaliou-se a influência do protocolo de sincronização de estro na execução da técnica de inseminação artificial por tração cervical (ITC) e subsequente perfil sérico de progesterona em ovelhas Santa Inês. Um grupo foi submetido a duas aplicações de cloprostenol com sete dias de intervalo (PGF2α, n=43), outro grupo foi sincronizado com MAP-eCG (P4-eCG, n=40) e ovelhas ao estro natural (EN, n=10) formaram grupo controle. Com as ovelhas contidas em estação, foi realizada a técnica ITC utilizando um aplicador metálico e mandril. Foram avaliadas a profundidade de penetração e intensidade de reação da ovelha ao manejo da técnica. Dosagens de estradiol e progesterona foram feitas antes e depois da ITC/estro natural, respectivamente. Os níveis de estradiol foram superiores com P4-eCG vs PGF2α (P < 0,05), mas não houve influência do protocolo na execução da técnica. Ocorreram 83,5% de deposição intrauterina do sêmen, o tempo médio foi de 32 segundos e 90,7% das ovelhas apresentaram reação fraca ou moderada durante o manejo. Os níveis de progesterona foram semelhantes entre ITC e estro natural. Independente do protocolo hormonal, a técnica ITC em ovelhas Santa Inês mantidas em estação mostrou-se viável no tempo de penetração da cérvice e deposição intrauterina do sêmen, não comprometendo a função luteal subsequente.(AU)

The influence of estrus synchronization protocol was evaluated on the artificial insemination technique by cervical traction (ICT) and subsequent progesterone serum profile in Santa Inês ewes. One group was submitted to two applications of cloprostenol seven days apart (PGF2α, n=43), another group was synchronized with MAP-eCG (P4-eCG, n=40) and ewes at natural estrus (NE, n=10) formed a control group. With the ewe contained in the stand position, the ICT technique was performed using a metal applicator and mandrel. Depth of penetration and reaction intensity of the ewe to the handling of the technique were evaluated. Dosages of estradiol and progesterone were performed before and after ICT / natural estrus, respectively. Estradiol levels were higher with P4-eCG vs PGF2α(AU)

Técnica de inseminação artificial por tração cervical e função luteal em ovelhas Santa Inês após estro sincronizado com cloprostenol ou progestágeno-eCG / Technique of artificial ins emination by cervical traction and luteal function in Santa Inês ewes after synchronized estrus with cloprostenol or progestagen-eCG

Avaliou-se a influência do protocolo de sincronização de estro na execução da técnica de inseminação artificial por tração cervical (ITC) e subsequente perfil sérico de progesterona em ovelhas Santa Inês. Um grupo foi submetido a duas aplicações de cloprostenol com sete dias de intervalo (PGF2α, n=43), outro grupo foi sincronizado com MAP-eCG (P4-eCG, n=40) e ovelhas ao estro natural (EN, n=10) formaram grupo controle. Com as ovelhas contidas em estação, foi realizada a técnica ITC utilizando um aplicador metálico e mandril. Foram avaliadas a profundidade de penetração e intensidade de reação da ovelha ao manejo da técnica. Dosagens de estradiol e progesterona foram feitas antes e depois da ITC/estro natural, respectivamente. Os níveis de estradiol foram superiores com P4-eCG vs PGF2α (P < 0,05), mas não houve influência do protocolo na execução da técnica. Ocorreram 83,5% de deposição intrauterina do sêmen, o tempo médio foi de 32 segundos e 90,7% das ovelhas apresentaram reação fraca ou moderada durante o manejo. Os níveis de progesterona foram semelhantes entre ITC e estro natural. Independente do protocolo hormonal, a técnica ITC em ovelhas Santa Inês mantidas em estação mostrou-se viável no tempo de penetração da cérvice e deposição intrauterina do sêmen, não comprometendo a função luteal subsequente.

The influence of estrus synchronization protocol was evaluated on the artificial insemination technique by cervical traction (ICT) and subsequent progesterone serum profile in Santa Inês ewes. One group was submitted to two applications of cloprostenol seven days apart (PGF2α, n=43), another group was synchronized with MAP-eCG (P4-eCG, n=40) and ewes at natural estrus (NE, n=10) formed a control group. With the ewe contained in the stand position, the ICT technique was performed using a metal applicator and mandrel. Depth of penetration and reaction intensity of the ewe to the handling of the technique were evaluated. Dosages of estradiol and progesterone were performed before and after ICT / natural estrus, respectively. Estradiol levels were higher with P4-eCG vs PGF2α

Cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in sheep / Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina e suas associações com morfina e xilazina por via epidural em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in ewes submitted to transcervical cervix transposition with a hegar dilator. Ten Santa Inês breed ewes were studied in a cross over model study where three epidural protocols (GK = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1; GKM = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + morphine 0.1 mg kg-1; GKX = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + xylazine 0.05 mg kg-1) were compared among each other and with a control treatment (GS= saline 1 mL/7.5 kg). The assessed variables were heart rate, respiratory frequency, ear temperature, non-invasive blood pressure and hemogasometric analysis. All parameters were assessed at baseline and then ewes were sedated with an association of acepromazine (0.1 mg kg -1) and diazepam (0.2 mg kg -1). Ten minutes after sedation all parameters were reassessed and afterwards the epidural injections were performed. Hemogasometry was repeated at 15 and 30 minutes after epidural and the other parameters assessed at 05, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after epidural. GKX showed a slight respiratory depression with lower levels of PO2 and a compensatory increase in respiratory frequency. GKM presented the lower temperature mean. All protocols showed few cardiorespiratory effects when compared with control. Epidural with 2.0 mg kg-1 ketamine isolated was considered the best opti

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina peridural e suas associações com morfina e xilazina em ovelhas submetidas à manipulação uterina por via transcervical. Foram estudadas dez ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Três protocolos epidurais foram avaliados: (GK = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1, GKM = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + morfina 0,1 mg kg−1, GKX = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + xilazina 0,05 mg kg−1). Os três protocolos foram comparados entre si e com um tratamento controle (GS = solução salina 1 mL/7,5kg). As variáveis avaliadas foram frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória, temperatura auricular, pressão arterial não-invasiva além da análise hemogasométrica. Todos os parâmetros foram avaliados no momento basal e em seguida as ovelhas foram sedadas com associação de acepromazina (0,1 mg kg−1) e diazepam (0,2 mg kg−1). Dez minutos após a sedação, todos os parâmetros foram novamente avaliados e foram realizadas as injeções peridurais. A hemogasometria foi repetida aos 15 e 30 minutos após a peridural e os outros parâmetros avaliados aos 05, 15, 30, 45, e 60 minutos após a peridural. O GKX mostrou sinais de hipoxemia com menores níveis de pO2 e um aumento compensatório na frequência respiratória. O GKM apresentou a média de temperatura mais baixa. Todos os protocolos apresentaram poucos efeitos cardiorrespiratórios em relação ao controle. O protocolo epidural com 2,0 mg kg−1 de cetamina foi considerado a melhor opção para procedimentos curtos como manipulações obstétricas em ovinos devido à estabilidade cardiorrespiratória quando comparado com os protocolos que utilizaram associações.(AU)

Cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in sheep / Efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina e suas associações com morfina e xilazina por via epidural em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects of epidural ketamine and its associations with morphine and xylazine in ewes submitted to transcervical cervix transposition with a hegar dilator. Ten Santa Inês breed ewes were studied in a cross over model study where three epidural protocols (GK = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1; GKM = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + morphine 0.1 mg kg-1; GKX = ketamine 2.0 mg kg-1 + xylazine 0.05 mg kg-1) were compared among each other and with a control treatment (GS= saline 1 mL/7.5 kg). The assessed variables were heart rate, respiratory frequency, ear temperature, non-invasive blood pressure and hemogasometric analysis. All parameters were assessed at baseline and then ewes were sedated with an association of acepromazine (0.1 mg kg -1) and diazepam (0.2 mg kg -1). Ten minutes after sedation all parameters were reassessed and afterwards the epidural injections were performed. Hemogasometry was repeated at 15 and 30 minutes after epidural and the other parameters assessed at 05, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after epidural. GKX showed a slight respiratory depression with lower levels of PO2 and a compensatory increase in respiratory frequency. GKM presented the lower temperature mean. All protocols showed few cardiorespiratory effects when compared with control. Epidural with 2.0 mg kg-1 ketamine isolated was considered the best opti

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos da cetamina peridural e suas associações com morfina e xilazina em ovelhas submetidas à manipulação uterina por via transcervical. Foram estudadas dez ovelhas da raça Santa Inês. Três protocolos epidurais foram avaliados: (GK = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1, GKM = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + morfina 0,1 mg kg−1, GKX = cetamina 2,0 mg kg−1 + xilazina 0,05 mg kg−1). Os três protocolos foram comparados entre si e com um tratamento controle (GS = solução salina 1 mL/7,5kg). As variáveis avaliadas foram frequência cardíaca, frequência respiratória, temperatura auricular, pressão arterial não-invasiva além da análise hemogasométrica. Todos os parâmetros foram avaliados no momento basal e em seguida as ovelhas foram sedadas com associação de acepromazina (0,1 mg kg−1) e diazepam (0,2 mg kg−1). Dez minutos após a sedação, todos os parâmetros foram novamente avaliados e foram realizadas as injeções peridurais. A hemogasometria foi repetida aos 15 e 30 minutos após a peridural e os outros parâmetros avaliados aos 05, 15, 30, 45, e 60 minutos após a peridural. O GKX mostrou sinais de hipoxemia com menores níveis de pO2 e um aumento compensatório na frequência respiratória. O GKM apresentou a média de temperatura mais baixa. Todos os protocolos apresentaram poucos efeitos cardiorrespiratórios em relação ao controle. O protocolo epidural com 2,0 mg kg−1 de cetamina foi considerado a melhor opção para procedimentos curtos como manipulações obstétricas em ovinos devido à estabilidade cardiorrespiratória quando comparado com os protocolos que utilizaram associações.

Systemic changes caused by artificial insemination in beef cows (Bos indicus) and their impact on animal welfare / Alterações sistêmicas causadas pela inseminação artificial em vacas de corte (Bos indicus) e seu impacto no bem-estar animal

This study aimed to verify if the process of artificial insemination (AI) characterized here as animal immobilization, the passage of the semen applicator through the cervix, and deposition of the semen in the uterus, affected cows' welfare. For this, 18 beef calved cows were selected and divided into two groups: inseminated cows (AIG, n = 9), and not inseminated cows, the control group (CG, n = 9). Body condition score, uterus, and ovary evaluation were performed. Later, both groups were submitted into an estrus synchronization protocol and only the AIG group was inseminated. Blood components of urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterone, albumin, and total protein were measured 30 h before AI, and 4, 24, 48 and 168 h after AI. Statistical differences were considered when P <0.05. No differences between AIG and CG were observed. On the other hand, when the moment of insemination was evaluated, differences were observed for urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, NEFA, BHB, albumin, and total protein. There was an oscillation of metabolic profiles depending on the time and procedures to which animals were exposed, even though it could be inferred that the AI process was incapable of altering those metabolic components on animals that were inseminated. Still, we can affirm that artificial insemination cannot be categorized as a negative reproduction tool on animal welfare. However, the containment and management procedures for AI may alter the metabolic profile of cows, especially the increase of CK.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se o processo de inseminação artificial (IA) caracterizado como imobilização do animal, passagem do aplicador de sêmen pelo colo do útero e deposição do sêmen no útero, afetou o bem-estar de bovinos. Para tanto, foram selecionadas 18 vacas de corte paridas, divididas em dois grupos: grupo de animais inseminados (AIG, n = 9) e grupo de animais não inseminados, grupo controle (GC, n = 9). Foram avaliados o escore de condição corporal, útero e ovário. Posteriormente, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a um protocolo de sincronização de cio e apenas o grupo AIG foi inseminado. Componentes metabólicos como ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterona, albumina e proteína total foram mensurados 30 horas antes da IA e 4, 24, 48 e 168 horas após a IA. Diferenças estatísticas foram consideradas quando P <0,05. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os dois grupos, por outro lado, quando o momento da inseminação foi avaliado, diferenças foram observadas para ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, NEFA, BHB, albumina e proteína total. Houve uma variação dos perfis metabólicos em função do tempo e dos procedimentos que os animais foram submetidos, embora pode-se inferir que o processo de IA não foi capaz de alterar esses componentes metabólicos os animais inseminados. Ainda assim, observou-se que o processo de IA não foi categorizado como uma ferramenta negativa de reprodução com relação ao bem-estar animal. Porém, ainda assim, os procedimentos de contenção e manejo da IA podem alterar o perfil metabólico das vacas, principalmente o aumento da CK.(AU)

To explore the therapeutic effect of Kangfuxiaomi shuan II on cervicitis in rats

ABSTRACT Purpose: The rat cervicitis model was established with 20% phenol glue to explore the therapeutic effect of Kangfuxiaomi shuan II on rat cervicitis and its mechanism. Methods: After modeling, the rats were treated with Shuangzuotai suppository (37.84 mg/kg), Kangfuxiaoyan shuan (205.6 mg/kg) and Kangfuxiaomi shuan II (40, 80, 160 mg/kg). The histopathological changes and injury degree of cervix in rats were evaluated by vulvar inflammation score and organ index. The therapeutic effect of Kangfuxiaomi shuan II on cervicitis was evaluated by detecting the levels of copper-protein (CP), C-reactive protein (CRP), Rat interleukin 6 (IL-6), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and epidermal growth factor (EGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in cervical tissue. Results: Compared with the model group, the vulvar inflammation score and cervical index of rats in other groups decreased significantly (P<0.01). Kangfuxiaomi shuan II could significantly reduce the levels of CP, CRP, and MDA in serum of rats with cervicitis, and significantly increase the activity of SOD in serum of rats with cervicitis (P<0.01). The levels of EGF and iNOS in cervical tissue of rats also increased in different degrees, while the level of COX-2 decreased significantly (P<0.01), which significantly improved the pathological degree of vulvar inflammation in rats with cervicitis. Conclusions: Kangfuxiaomi shuan II has a certain therapeutic effect on cervicitis in rats, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of inflammatory cytokine network and immunity.

Comparison of intraoperative nociception and postoperative acute pain after traditional or minimally invasive ovariohysterectomy in dogs

Many variations of ovariohysterectomy techniques have been described, including the traditional one and minimally invasive procedures. Non-laparoscopic Snook hook technique is an alternative for performing minimally invasive ovariohysterectomy. Few studies have been carried out in order to assess pain in animals submitted to minimally invasive surgeries, especially involving one of the most performed surgical procedures in veterinary practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical duration, intraoperative nociception and acute postoperative pain after traditional ovariohysterectomy or minimally invasive non-laparoscopic technique in dogs using Snook hook. The hypothesis is that non-laparoscopic minimally invasive ovariohysterectomy would be faster and less painful than the conventional technique. Thirty dogs were divided into Traditional Group (TG = 15) and Minimally Invasive Group (MIG = 15). Heart rate, respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, body temperature, oxyhemoglobin saturation, end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration (ETCO2) and end-tidal isoflurane concentration were evaluated before the surgery begins (M0), during incision (M1), clamping of the first ovarian pedicle (M2), second ovarian pedicle (M3), uterine cervix (M4), abdominal suture (M5) and at the end of surgery (M6). The modified Glasgow Pain Scale was used for acute postoperative pain assessment and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to assess the sensitivity of surgical wound. The level of significance established for all statistical analysis was 5%. Statistical differences were not observed between groups considering total surgical time and postoperative acute pain intensity (P > 0.05), in spite of MIG having shorter duration of surgery. There was no statistical difference between groups considering all intraoperative parameters except respiratory rate (TG < MIG; P < 0.05) and ETCO2 (MIG < TG; P < 0.05) at the moment of traction of the first ovarian pedicle (M2). Pain assessment by VAS showed statistical difference 24h after the end of surgery (TG < MIG) (P < 0.05). Both procedures were similar regarding intraoperative nociception and acute postoperative pain. It is possible that the sensation of pain in both procedures was blocked by the effectiveness of analgesics, once they might cause an inhibition of painful behaviors limiting a possible difference in pain identification. Higher respiratory stress observed in MIG at M2 and higher pain score by VAS noted in MIG 24 h after the end of surgery can be justified by greater traction of ovarian pedicle, due to limited surgical access of minimally invasive technique. Minimally invasive ovariohysterectomy non-laparoscopic seems to be potentially faster, probably due to the smaller size of the abdominal incision, which takes less time to be closed. In the present study, both techniques were performed by an experienced surgeon, providing safe procedures, nevertheless it is important to emphasize that iatrogenic injury can be caused by surgeons non-proficient in the Snook hook technique, considering the limited visualization of anatomical abdominal structures. Data obtained indicate that traditional ovariohysterectomy and non-laparoscopic Snook hook technique promote similar intraoperative nociception and acute postoperative pain, however minimally invasive procedure is potentially faster with less surgical trauma.(AU)

Systemic changes caused by artificial insemination in beef cows (Bos indicus) and their impact on animal welfare / Alterações sistêmicas causadas pela inseminação artificial em vacas de corte (Bos indicus) e seu impacto no bem-estar animal

This study aimed to verify if the process of artificial insemination (AI) characterized here as animal immobilization, the passage of the semen applicator through the cervix, and deposition of the semen in the uterus, affected cows' welfare. For this, 18 beef calved cows were selected and divided into two groups: inseminated cows (AIG, n = 9), and not inseminated cows, the control group (CG, n = 9). Body condition score, uterus, and ovary evaluation were performed. Later, both groups were submitted into an estrus synchronization protocol and only the AIG group was inseminated. Blood components of urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterone, albumin, and total protein were measured 30 h before AI, and 4, 24, 48 and 168 h after AI. Statistical differences were considered when P <0.05. No differences between AIG and CG were observed. On the other hand, when the moment of insemination was evaluated, differences were observed for urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, NEFA, BHB, albumin, and total protein. There was an oscillation of metabolic profiles depending on the time and procedures to which animals were exposed, even though it could be inferred that the AI process was incapable of altering those metabolic components on animals that were inseminated. Still, we can affirm that artificial insemination cannot be categorized as a negative reproduction tool on animal welfare. However, the containment and management procedures for AI may alter the metabolic profile of cows, especially the increase of CK.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se o processo de inseminação artificial (IA) caracterizado como imobilização do animal, passagem do aplicador de sêmen pelo colo do útero e deposição do sêmen no útero, afetou o bem-estar de bovinos. Para tanto, foram selecionadas 18 vacas de corte paridas, divididas em dois grupos: grupo de animais inseminados (AIG, n = 9) e grupo de animais não inseminados, grupo controle (GC, n = 9). Foram avaliados o escore de condição corporal, útero e ovário. Posteriormente, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a um protocolo de sincronização de cio e apenas o grupo AIG foi inseminado. Componentes metabólicos como ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterona, albumina e proteína total foram mensurados 30 horas antes da IA e 4, 24, 48 e 168 horas após a IA. Diferenças estatísticas foram consideradas quando P <0,05. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os dois grupos, por outro lado, quando o momento da inseminação foi avaliado, diferenças foram observadas para ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, NEFA, BHB, albumina e proteína total. Houve uma variação dos perfis metabólicos em função do tempo e dos procedimentos que os animais foram submetidos, embora pode-se inferir que o processo de IA não foi capaz de alterar esses componentes metabólicos os animais inseminados. Ainda assim, observou-se que o processo de IA não foi categorizado como uma ferramenta negativa de reprodução com relação ao bem-estar animal. Porém, ainda assim, os procedimentos de contenção e manejo da IA podem alterar o perfil metabólico das vacas, principalmente o aumento da CK.(AU)

Recent advances and future directions for uterine diseases diagnosis, pathogenesis, and management in dairy cows

Researchers, veterinarians, and farmers' pursuit of a consistent diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of uterine diseases remains challenging. The diagnosis and treatment of metritis is inconsistent, a concerning situation when considered the global threat of antimicrobial resistance dissemination. Endometritis is an insidious disease absent on routine health programs in many dairy farms and from pharmaceutical therapeutics arsenal in places like the US market. Conversely, a multitude of studies advanced the understanding of how uterine diseases compromise oocyte, follicle, and embryo development, and the uterine environment having long-lasting effects on fertility. The field of uterine disease microbiome also experienced tremendous progress and created opportunities for the development of novel preventives to improve the management of uterine diseases. Activity monitors, biomarkers, genomic selection, and machine learning predictive models are other innovative developments that have been explored in recent years to help mitigate the negative impacts of uterine diseases. Albeit novel tools such as vaccines for metritis, immune modulators, probiotics, genomic selection, and selective antimicrobial therapy are promising, further research is warranted to implement these technologies in a systematic and cost-effective manner.