Surviving heat: Resilience of Nellore bulls to solar radiation exposure

We aimed to assess the physiological and biophysical responses of Nellore bulls exposed to solar radiation in semiarid conditions throughout the day. Sixteen Nellore bulls were examined in Tibau city, Northeast Brazil (5°52ʹ South, 37°20ʹ West, and 37 m above sea level) over four nonconsecutive days, with data collection taking place at one-hour intervals between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm. Four animals were analyzed each day and kept exposed to the sun for the duration of the study. The average age of the animals was three years, and their average body weight was 650±32 kg. The meteorological station measured air temperature (°C), relative humidity (%), solar radiation (W.m-2 ), and black globe temperatures (°C) every minute, while a digital anemometer thermohygrometer measured wind speed (m.s-1 ) at the same time. Respiratory rate (breaths.min-1 ), expired air temperature (°C), rectal temperature (°C), and body surface temperature (°C) were measured as physiological variables. Biophysical equations were used to estimate the sensible and latent heat transfer mechanisms (W.m-2 ). The air temperature ranged from 28.5 to 32.5°C, and direct solar radiation was between 21 and 891 W.m-². Between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm, the study observed heat gain through longwave radiation, which reached an average of 250 W.m-2 , with a significant increase (P < 0.05) in respiratory rate and body surface temperature during this time. Convection was significant in heat dissipation, particularly when the wind speed was increased from 11:00 am. However, latent heat loss mechanisms were more effective in losing excess body heat under total sun exposure, despite the positive effect of convection. The study findings showed that Nellore bulls maintained their body temperature within a narrow range even when exposed to high solar radiation, thus demonstrating the efficiency of physiological and biophysical mechanisms during times of greater thermal challenge.(AU)

Reproductive physiology of the heat-stressed dairy cow: implications for fertility and assisted reproduction

Heat stress causes a large decline in pregnancy success per insemination during warm times of the year. Improvements in fertility are possible by exploiting knowledge about how heat stress affects the reproductive process. The oocyte can be damaged by heat stress at the earliest stages of folliculogenesis and remains sensitive to heat stress in the peri-ovulatory period. Changes in oocyte quality due to heat stress are the result of altered patterns of folliculogenesis and, possibly, direct effects of elevated body temperature on the oocyte. While adverse effects of elevated temperature on the oocyte have been observed in vitro, local cooling of the ovary and protective effects of follicular fluid may limit these actions in vivo. Heat stress can also compromise fertilization rate. The first seven days of embryonic development are very susceptible to disruption by heat stress. During these seven days, the embryo undergoes a rapid change in sensitivity to heat stress from being very sensitive (2- to 4-cell stage) to largely resistant (by the morulae stage). Direct actions of elevated temperature on the embryo are likely to be an important mechanism for reduction in embryonic survival caused by heat stress. An effective way to avoid effects of heat stress on the oocyte, fertilization, and early embryo is to bypass the effects through embryo transfer because embryos are typically transferred into females after acquisition of thermal resistance. There may be some opportunity to mitigate effects of heat stress by feeding antioxidants or regulating the endocrine environment of the cow but neither approach has been reduced to practice. The best long-term solution to the problem of heat stress may be to increase genetic resistance of cows to heat stress. Thermotolerance genes exist within dairy breeds and additional genes can be introgressed from other breeds by traditional means or gene editing.

Reproductive physiology of the heat-stressed dairy cow: implications for fertility and assisted reproduction

Heat stress causes a large decline in pregnancy success per insemination during warm times of the year. Improvements in fertility are possible by exploiting knowledge about how heat stress affects the reproductive process. The oocyte can be damaged by heat stress at the earliest stages of folliculogenesis and remains sensitive to heat stress in the peri-ovulatory period. Changes in oocyte quality due to heat stress are the result of altered patterns of folliculogenesis and, possibly, direct effects of elevated body temperature on the oocyte. While adverse effects of elevated temperature on the oocyte have been observed in vitro, local cooling of the ovary and protective effects of follicular fluid may limit these actions in vivo. Heat stress can also compromise fertilization rate. The first seven days of embryonic development are very susceptible to disruption by heat stress. During these seven days, the embryo undergoes a rapid change in sensitivity to heat stress from being very sensitive (2- to 4-cell stage) to largely resistant (by the morulae stage). Direct actions of elevated temperature on the embryo are likely to be an important mechanism for reduction in embryonic survival caused by heat stress. An effective way to avoid effects of heat stress on the oocyte, fertilization, and early embryo is to bypass the effects through embryo transfer because embryos are typically transferred into females after acquisition of thermal resistance. There may be some opportunity to mitigate effects of heat stress by feeding antioxidants or regulating the endocrine environment of the cow but neither approach has been reduced to practice. The best long-term solution to the problem of heat stress may be to increase genetic resistance of cows to heat stress. Thermotolerance genes exist within dairy breeds and additional genes can be introgressed from other breeds by traditional means or gene editing.(AU)

Strategies to increment in vivo and in vitro embryo production and transfer in cattle

Knowledge of follicular wave dynamics obtained through the use of real-time ultrasonography and the development of the means by which follicular wave dynamics can be controlled have provided practical approaches for the in vivo and in vitro production and transfer of embryos in cattle. The elective control of follicular wave emergence and ovulation has had a great impact on the application of on-farm embryo transfer, especially when large groups of donors need to be superstimulated at the same time. Although estradiol and progestins have been used for many years, practitioners in countries where estradiol cannot be used have turned to alternative treatments, such as mechanical follicle ablation or the administration of GnRH for the synchronization of follicle wave emergence. In vitro embryo production also benefits from the synchronization of follicle wave emergence prior to Cumulus Oocyte Complexes (COCs) recovery. As Bos indicus cattle have high antral follicle population, large numbers of oocytes can be obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU) without superstimulation. However, synchronization of follicular wave emergence and superstimulation is necessary to obtain high numbers of COCs by OPU and blastocysts following in vitro fertilization in Bos taurus donors. Finally, embryos can now be transferred in commercial beef or dairy herds using efficacious synchronization and resynchronization protocols that are easily implemented by farm personnel. These technologies can also be used to resolve reproductive problems such as the reduced fertility observed during summer heat stress and/or in repeat-breeder cows in commercial dairy herds.

Strategies to increment in vivo and in vitro embryo production and transfer in cattle

Knowledge of follicular wave dynamics obtained through the use of real-time ultrasonography and the development of the means by which follicular wave dynamics can be controlled have provided practical approaches for the in vivo and in vitro production and transfer of embryos in cattle. The elective control of follicular wave emergence and ovulation has had a great impact on the application of on-farm embryo transfer, especially when large groups of donors need to be superstimulated at the same time. Although estradiol and progestins have been used for many years, practitioners in countries where estradiol cannot be used have turned to alternative treatments, such as mechanical follicle ablation or the administration of GnRH for the synchronization of follicle wave emergence. In vitro embryo production also benefits from the synchronization of follicle wave emergence prior to Cumulus Oocyte Complexes (COCs) recovery. As Bos indicus cattle have high antral follicle population, large numbers of oocytes can be obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU) without superstimulation. However, synchronization of follicular wave emergence and superstimulation is necessary to obtain high numbers of COCs by OPU and blastocysts following in vitro fertilization in Bos taurus donors. Finally, embryos can now be transferred in commercial beef or dairy herds using efficacious synchronization and resynchronization protocols that are easily implemented by farm personnel. These technologies can also be used to resolve reproductive problems such as the reduced fertility observed during summer heat stress and/or in repeat-breeder cows in commercial dairy herds.(AU)

Use of two new formulations as bovine embryo manipulation solution

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two Embryo Manipulation Solutions (EMS and EMS supplemented) in maintenance of the viability of embryos, initially using structures derived from mice (first phase). Next, the efficiency of these solutions in routines of bovine embryo transfer was evaluated (second stage). Mice embryos were used in the stages of early blastocyst, and compact morula grades I and II. These embryos were initially randomly distributed and maintained for four hours in three solutions: Modified phosphate buffered saline (PBS; Control); EMS (treatment 1), and EMS supplemented (treatment 2). Subsequently, they were cultured in TCM 199 medium and evaluated in terms of total number of cells, morphometric characteristics, ultra structural aspects, detection of cell apoptosis, and quantification of Hsp70.3 gene expression. In the second phase, these same solutions were tested in the transfer of quality I and II bovine embryos (excellent and good). These embryos were transferred fresh to 58 recipients. The results showed that the total number of cells in embryos expanded blastocyst (ExB), the number of apoptotic cells, the cell, nuclear, nucleolar diameter and the nucleus/nucleolus ratio was similar among the treatments. The pregnancy rate shown on second phase was also similar. However, the EMS supplemented expressed more Hsp70.3 than EMS. The expression of Hsp70.3 was also greater for embryos in EMS than that of EMS supplemented. The McII embryos, EMS and EMS supplemented samples also expressed more Hsp70.3 compared to control embryos. In conclusion, the tested solutions can be used in routine embryo transfer techniques, replacing modified PBS solution as an effective media in maintaining embryo viability.(AU)

Conceptual design of a thermal weed control machine / Projeto conceitual de máquina para o controle de plantas daninhas pela aplicação de calor

The great difficulty for family farmers who produce food organically is the control of weeds without using chemical products. One possibility for the management is the use of heat in the sense of coagulating the protoplasm in leaves and stem cells. The present research aimed toconceptual design a mechanized system for weeds control through the use of heat focusing on familiar farmers who produce food organically. In this study, we used a product development methodology which can be divided into different stages that are composed of several tasks. As a result of the use of such methodology, six concepts of heat transfer machines were developed. After the application of selection tools, two concepts were chosen for the optimization process, and then the one considered ideal to meet the needs of farmers was selected.(AU)

A grande dificuldade dos agricultores familiares que produzem alimentos de forma orgânica é o controle de plantas daninhas sem a aplicação de produtos químicos. Uma possibilidade para o manejo é a utilização de calor, no sentido de coagular o protoplasma em células das folhas e do caule. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi projetar uma concepção de um sistema mecanizado para o controle das plantas daninhas por meio da utilização de calor, tendo como público alvo agricultores familiares que produzem de forma orgânica. Para a realização do trabalho foi empregada metodologia de desenvolvimento de produtos, a qual pode ser dividida em diferentes fases, que são compostas por diversas tarefas. Como resultado da aplicação da metodologia obteve-se seis concepções de máquinas aplicadoras de calor. Após aplicação de ferramentas de seleção foram escolhidas duas concepções para o processo de otimização, obtendo-se posteriormente aquela considerada ideal para atender as necessidades dos agricultores.(AU)

Estratégias para aumentar a produção de embriões em bovinos / Strategies to increase embryo production in cattle

As biotecnologias para produção de embriões in vivo e in vitro são de grande importância para acelerar o ganho genético dos rebanhos de corte e de leite. No entanto, o sucesso desses processos depende diretamente da quantidade e da qualidade dos oócitos da doadora de embrião. Diversos fatores influenciam a produção de embriões como a população folicular, a idade da doadora, o estresse térmico, o status metabólico e o status reprodutivo. Na atualidade, vários estudos têm sido desenvolvidos para elaborar estratégias que contornem estes desafios e aumentem a eficiência das técnicas de produção de embriões. Dentre os tratamentos estabelecidos para melhorar a produção de embriões das doadoras destacam-se a utilização de FSH, rBST, propilenoglicol e células tronco mesenquimais.(AU)

Biotechnologies for producing in vivo and in vitro embryos are very important to accelerate the genetic gain of beef and dairy herds. However, the success of these processes depend directly on the quantity and quality of the donors oocytes. Many factors influence the embryo production, such as follicle population, age, heat stress, metabolic status and reproductive status. Recently, many studies have been conducted to elaborate strategies that can overcome these issues and increase the efficiency of the embryo production techniques. Among the treatments developed to improve the embryo production, the use of FSH, rBST, propylene glycol and mesenchymal stem cells stand out.(AU)

Estratégias para aumentar a produção de embriões em bovinos / Strategies to increase embryo production in cattle

As biotecnologias para produção de embriões in vivo e in vitro são de grande importância para acelerar o ganho genético dos rebanhos de corte e de leite. No entanto, o sucesso desses processos depende diretamente da quantidade e da qualidade dos oócitos da doadora de embrião. Diversos fatores influenciam a produção de embriões como a população folicular, a idade da doadora, o estresse térmico, o status metabólico e o status reprodutivo. Na atualidade, vários estudos têm sido desenvolvidos para elaborar estratégias que contornem estes desafios e aumentem a eficiência das técnicas de produção de embriões. Dentre os tratamentos estabelecidos para melhorar a produção de embriões das doadoras destacam-se a utilização de FSH, rBST, propilenoglicol e células tronco mesenquimais.

Biotechnologies for producing in vivo and in vitro embryos are very important to accelerate the genetic gain of beef and dairy herds. However, the success of these processes depend directly on the quantity and quality of the donors oocytes. Many factors influence the embryo production, such as follicle population, age, heat stress, metabolic status and reproductive status. Recently, many studies have been conducted to elaborate strategies that can overcome these issues and increase the efficiency of the embryo production techniques. Among the treatments developed to improve the embryo production, the use of FSH, rBST, propylene glycol and mesenchymal stem cells stand out.

Drying of microalga Scenedesmus obliquus BR003 in a gas dryer at low temperatures / Secagem da microalga Scenedesmus obliquus BR003 em secador a gás em baixas temperaturas

O desenvolvimento de equipamentos eficientes e específicos para a secagem de microalgas é essencial para a exploração comercial destes microrganismos que apresentam alta taxa de crescimento e grande potencial biotecnológico. Os custos de secagem da biomassa de microalgas ainda são elevados e precisam ser reduzidos para a produção de compostos com baixo valor agregado. Portanto, realizou-se o estudo da secagem da microalga Scenedesmus obliquus BR003 utilizando baixas temperaturas. S. obliquus BR003 é uma microalga robusta que apresenta alta produtividade de lipídeos. Em escala laboratorial, observou-se que a biomassa de S. obliquus BR003 foi rapidamente seca em baixas temperaturas entre 50 e 60 ºC. Um secador a gás foi utilizado para avaliar a secagem da biomassa de S. obliquus BR003 em escala piloto. A biomassa foi seca em menos de 24 h utilizando o secador a gás, entretanto, a elevada umidade da biomassa da microalga requereu uma maior renovação de ar na câmara do secador. A análise de fluidodinâmica computacional do secador a gás mostrou dois parâmetros importantes para se obter uma maior efetividade de transferência de calor e massa durante o processo de secagem da biomassa de microalga. Concluiu-se que um secador a gás adequado, para a biomassa de microalgas, deve possuir múltiplos pontos de injeção de ar, e um eficiente sistema de circulação e renovação de ar no interior da câmara de secagem.(AU)

Development of efficient and specific equipment to dry microalgae is essential for commercial use of these microorganisms that show high growth rates and biotechnological potential. Drying costs of microalgae biomass are still high and they should be reduced for the production of compounds with low added value. Therefore, we evaluated the drying process of the microalga Scenedesmus obliquus BR003 using low temperatures. S. obliquus BR003 is a robust microalga that shows high lipid productivity. At laboratory scale, it was observed that the biomass of S. obliquus BR003 was rapidly dried at low temperatures between 50 and 60 ° C. A gas dryer was used to evaluate the drying of the biomass of S. obliquus BR003 on a pilot-scale. The biomass was dried in less than 24 h using the gas dryer; however, the high moisture of the microalga biomass required a higher air renovation in the drying chamber. Computational fluid dynamics analysis of the gas dryer showed two important parameters to achieve greater effectiveness of heat and mass transfer rates during the drying process of the microalga biomass. It was concluded that a gas dryer suitable for the microalgae biomass should have multiple air injection points, and an efficient circulation and renovation system of air inside the drying chamber.(AU)

Effect of feeding heat-treated and unheated colostrum on immunoglobulin G absorption, health and performance of neonatal Holstein dairy calves

First colostrum is an important source of nutrients and immune factors which are necessary for calves in the first weeks of life. Despite these benefits, colostrum can also represent one of the earliest potential exposures of dairy calves to infectious agents which these patogens can act directly on growth and cause diseases such as scours or septicemia. With recent increased interest in pasteurized milk feeding systems, producers have been curious to learn if there may also be benefits from feeding pasteurized colostrum. This study was realized to determine the effects of feeding heat-treated colostrum or unheated colostrum on passive transfer of immunity, immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration, total plate count, health and performance of neonatal dairy calves. First-milking colostrum was collected from Holstein cows and frozen at -20°C to accumulate a large batch. Pooled batches of colostrum were mixed and divided equally: One half was fed unheated colostrum; whereas the other half was fed after heat treatment at 60°C for 30 min. Forty newborn male Holstein dairy calves were fed either unheated (n = 20) and heat-treated colostrum (n = 20), 10% of their birth weight. Calves received 4 L within 1 to 2h after birth and residuals was fed 6h after birth. Serum samples collected from calves and were assayed for serum total protein (STP) and IgG. Feed intake recorded weekly and body weight and skeletal growth measures recorded at d 3 and d 63 (weaning). Every day, calves clinically diagnosed either as being healthy or suffering from respiratory disease and neonatal calf diarrhea. Heat-treated colostrum resulted in lower colostrum bacterial concentration (2.01 vs. 3.96 cfu mL-1 ). Calves fed heat treated colostrum had greater STP in 24, 72h and 23d, IgG concentrations at 24 and 72h plus unheated colostrum. Also weaning weight and average daily gain were greater in calves feed heated colostrum. There were no differences in starter intake and feed efficiency between two groups. Calves fed heat-treated colostrum had lower fecal scores, diarrhea and pneumonia incidence. There were not differences in skeletal growth measurements except body barrel. These results shows that feeding heated colostrum can provide better growth and health in neonatal calves.(AU)

Effect of feeding heat-treated and unheated colostrum on immunoglobulin G absorption, health and performance of neonatal Holstein dairy calves

First colostrum is an important source of nutrients and immune factors which are necessary for calves in the first weeks of life. Despite these benefits, colostrum can also represent one of the earliest potential exposures of dairy calves to infectious agents which these patogens can act directly on growth and cause diseases such as scours or septicemia. With recent increased interest in pasteurized milk feeding systems, producers have been curious to learn if there may also be benefits from feeding pasteurized colostrum. This study was realized to determine the effects of feeding heat-treated colostrum or unheated colostrum on passive transfer of immunity, immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration, total plate count, health and performance of neonatal dairy calves. First-milking colostrum was collected from Holstein cows and frozen at -20°C to accumulate a large batch. Pooled batches of colostrum were mixed and divided equally: One half was fed unheated colostrum; whereas the other half was fed after heat treatment at 60°C for 30 min. Forty newborn male Holstein dairy calves were fed either unheated (n = 20) and heat-treated colostrum (n = 20), 10% of their birth weight. Calves received 4 L within 1 to 2h after birth and residuals was fed 6h after birth. Serum samples collected from calves and were assayed for serum total protein (STP) and IgG. Feed intake recorded weekly and body weight and skeletal growth measures recorded at d 3 and d 63 (weaning). Every day, calves clinically diagnosed either as being healthy or suffering from respiratory disease and neonatal calf diarrhea. Heat-treated colostrum resulted in lower colostrum bacterial concentration (2.01 vs. 3.96 cfu mL-1 ). Calves fed heat treated colostrum had greater STP in 24, 72h and 23d, IgG concentrations at 24 and 72h plus unheated colostrum. Also weaning weight and average daily gain were greater in calves feed heated colostrum. There were no differences in starter intake and feed efficiency between two groups. Calves fed heat-treated colostrum had lower fecal scores, diarrhea and pneumonia incidence. There were not differences in skeletal growth measurements except body barrel. These results shows that feeding heated colostrum can provide better growth and health in neonatal calves.

Effect of extreme severe heat stress on respiratory rate in unshorn and shorn Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia / Efeito do estresse por calor extremamente intenso sobre a taxa respiratória de carneiros Merino Australiano com lã e tosquiados da Patagônia Norte, Argentina

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of severe extreme thermal stress on the respiratory rate (panting) of unsheared and sheared rams in standing and lying position, and to analyse two temperature-humidity indices (THIs). Six mature Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia, three unshorn and three shorn, were subjected to 40 hours (8 hours each day for five days) of gradual increase in temperature from 25°C to 40°C, guaranteeing 4h daily at 40°C in a heat chamber. Respiratory rate (RR) was registered continuously by counting flank movements, and the ambient air temperature and relative humidity were recorded every five minutes inside the heat chamber. From 1413 RR measurements, descriptive and modelling analyses were performed. Panting as a response variable was distributed into five categories, and fixed effects such as THI, wool (unshorn/shorn), and position (standing/lying) were considered. No significant differences were observed between the panting score in the unshorn (standing or lying) and standing (unshorn or shorn) sheep, but significant differences were observed in shorn and lying rams. The explanations could be that heat production from muscle activity was lower and the transfer and heat lost by conduction to the floor was easier in the rams with shorter fleece (at least 0.7 inches long). However, in the unshorn rams, their wool acted as an insulator, both with air as well as the floor. Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia are heat tolerant to an environment between 31.5°C and 42°C, and 32% to 48% humidity for 40 hours over five days. The rams were in the first phase of panting, and the normal rectal temperatures registered daily when leaving the heat chamber confirmed that regulation of body temperature was possible. The LPHSI's THI was adjusted to improve the analysis of the RR more than the National Research Council's THI.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o efeito do estresse térmico extremamente severo sobre a frequência respiratória (ofego) em carneiros com lã e tosquiados, em pé ou deitados, e analisar dois índices de temperatura e umidade (ITU). Seis carneiros Merino Australiano da Patagônia Norte, três com lã e três tosquiados, foram expostos durante 40 horas a aumento gradual de temperatura de 25 a 40°C (oito horas durante cinco dias), garantindo quatro horas diárias a 40°C em uma câmara de calor. A frequência respiratória foi registrada continuamente mediante a contagem dos movimentos do flanco. A temperatura e a umidade relativa ambiente foram registradas a cada cinco minutos dentro da câmara. A partir de 1.413 frequências respiratórias registradas, uma análise descritiva foi realizada e um modelo calculado. A variável de resposta do ofego foi dividida em cinco categorias e os efeitos fixos considerados foram: ITU, lã (com lã ou tosquiado) e posição (em pé ou deitado). Não se observaram diferenças significativas nas frequências de ofego nos carneiros com lã (em pé ou deitados) nem entre os carneiros em pé (com lã e tosquiados), mas foram observadas diferenças significativas nos carneiros tosquiados deitados. Essas diferenças podem ser atribuídas à perda de calor com o solo, facilitada nos carneiros com mecha mais curta (pelo menos 1,8 cm), e à baixa produção de calor de atividade de músculo. Nos carneiros lanados, a lã atua como isolante tanto com o ar quanto com o solo. Os carneiros Merino Australianos do Norte da Patagônia foram adaptados a temperaturas ambiente entre 31,5 e 42°C e 32 e 48% de umidade durante 40 horas em cinco dias. Os carneiros permaneceram na primeira fase do ofego e as temperaturas retais diárias, que se registraram ao deixar a câmara de calor, permaneceram dentro da normalidade, o que demonstra que eles puderam regular a temperatura corporal. Além disso, foram analisados comparativamente os ajustes à frequência respiratória dos ITUs: LPHSI e National Research Council.(AU)

Effect of extreme severe heat stress on respiratory rate in unshorn and shorn Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia / Efeito do estresse por calor extremamente intenso sobre a taxa respiratória de carneiros Merino Australiano com lã e tosquiados da Patagônia Norte, Argentina

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of severe extreme thermal stress on the respiratory rate (panting) of unsheared and sheared rams in standing and lying position, and to analyse two temperature-humidity indices (THIs). Six mature Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia, three unshorn and three shorn, were subjected to 40 hours (8 hours each day for five days) of gradual increase in temperature from 25°C to 40°C, guaranteeing 4h daily at 40°C in a heat chamber. Respiratory rate (RR) was registered continuously by counting flank movements, and the ambient air temperature and relative humidity were recorded every five minutes inside the heat chamber. From 1413 RR measurements, descriptive and modelling analyses were performed. Panting as a response variable was distributed into five categories, and fixed effects such as THI, wool (unshorn/shorn), and position (standing/lying) were considered. No significant differences were observed between the panting score in the unshorn (standing or lying) and standing (unshorn or shorn) sheep, but significant differences were observed in shorn and lying rams. The explanations could be that heat production from muscle activity was lower and the transfer and heat lost by conduction to the floor was easier in the rams with shorter fleece (at least 0.7 inches long). However, in the unshorn rams, their wool acted as an insulator, both with air as well as the floor. Australian Merino rams from Northern Patagonia are heat tolerant to an environment between 31.5°C and 42°C, and 32% to 48% humidity for 40 hours over five days. The rams were in the first phase of panting, and the normal rectal temperatures registered daily when leaving the heat chamber confirmed that regulation of body temperature was possible. The LPHSI's THI was adjusted to improve the analysis of the RR more than the National Research Council's THI.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o efeito do estresse térmico extremamente severo sobre a frequência respiratória (ofego) em carneiros com lã e tosquiados, em pé ou deitados, e analisar dois índices de temperatura e umidade (ITU). Seis carneiros Merino Australiano da Patagônia Norte, três com lã e três tosquiados, foram expostos durante 40 horas a aumento gradual de temperatura de 25 a 40°C (oito horas durante cinco dias), garantindo quatro horas diárias a 40°C em uma câmara de calor. A frequência respiratória foi registrada continuamente mediante a contagem dos movimentos do flanco. A temperatura e a umidade relativa ambiente foram registradas a cada cinco minutos dentro da câmara. A partir de 1.413 frequências respiratórias registradas, uma análise descritiva foi realizada e um modelo calculado. A variável de resposta do ofego foi dividida em cinco categorias e os efeitos fixos considerados foram: ITU, lã (com lã ou tosquiado) e posição (em pé ou deitado). Não se observaram diferenças significativas nas frequências de ofego nos carneiros com lã (em pé ou deitados) nem entre os carneiros em pé (com lã e tosquiados), mas foram observadas diferenças significativas nos carneiros tosquiados deitados. Essas diferenças podem ser atribuídas à perda de calor com o solo, facilitada nos carneiros com mecha mais curta (pelo menos 1,8 cm), e à baixa produção de calor de atividade de músculo. Nos carneiros lanados, a lã atua como isolante tanto com o ar quanto com o solo. Os carneiros Merino Australianos do Norte da Patagônia foram adaptados a temperaturas ambiente entre 31,5 e 42°C e 32 e 48% de umidade durante 40 horas em cinco dias. Os carneiros permaneceram na primeira fase do ofego e as temperaturas retais diárias, que se registraram ao deixar a câmara de calor, permaneceram dentro da normalidade, o que demonstra que eles puderam regular a temperatura corporal.[...] (AU)

Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence ovarian environment and efficiency of reproduction in cattle

The emergent concepts on ovary environment,reproductive physiology and the development ofpharmacology are constantly supporting the advance ofassisted reproduction. Within the last years, thebiotechnics related to the synchronization of folliculardevelopment and the manipulation of bovine estruscycle have progressed rapidly and consistently. Thecombined use of timed-artificial insemination (TAI),superovulation (SOV), ovum pick up (OPU), in vitroembryo production (IVEP) and timed-embryo transfer(TET) has a great potential to improve reproductiveoutcomes and disseminate selected genetics,diminishing the interval of generations and improvingherds genetic gain. However, several factors canpotentially affect the efficiency of these procedures. Theknowledge of the particularities of the genetic groups,follicular growth manipulation, follicular populationpredictors, and metabolic and environmental aspectsthat interfere with ovarian environment and,consequently, oocyte quantity and quality is crucial tooptimize the reproductive programs. This review aimsto elucidate some factors that affect the ovarianenvironment and must be well known in order toimprove the efficiency of reproduction in cattle.

A new simple and reliable vitrification device based on Hollow Fiber Vitrification (HFV) method evaluated using IVP bovine embryos

A new vitrification device based on hollow fiber vitrification (HFV) was constructed using a glass capillary, which lead to simplified construction process and increased practicality of the device. The hollow fiber was attached to heat-pulled tip of the glass capillary using forceps. A protective sheath fitted on the capillary provided protection for the cellulose triacetate hollow fiber with loaded embryos and allowed safe storage in liquid nitrogen for long periods of time (2-12 month), transfer between tanks with liquid nitrogen and transportation within these tanks. No embryos were lost in the process. The device was tested using seven-day-old and eight-day-old IVP bovine blastocysts and expanded blastocysts as a model. Obtained survival (90% at 24 h post warming) and hatching rates (62% at 72 h post warming) of day 7 blastocysts and expanded blastocysts were comparable to those gained using various vitrification carriers. Vitrified embryos did not show an increase in the number of cells with damaged membrane or a decrease in total cell number per embryos in comparison to their non-vitrified counterparts. Day 7 and 8 expanded blastocysts did not differ significantly in terms of survival at 24 (97.01 vs. 97.50%) and 48 h post warming (95.52 vs. 95%), but showed significantly higher survival and hatching rates than day 7 and 8 blastocysts. These results indicated that high and repeatable survival rates can be obtained by selection of IVP bovine embryos at the developmental stage of expanded blastocyst for HFV. Further modification of the method may be required to achieve high and stable results with different developmental stages of IVP bovine embryo. The vitrification device presented in the current article may contribute to wider application of HFV method in livestock production.

A new simple and reliable vitrification device based on Hollow Fiber Vitrification (HFV) method evaluated using IVP bovine embryos

A new vitrification device based on hollow fiber vitrification (HFV) was constructed using a glass capillary, which lead to simplified construction process and increased practicality of the device. The hollow fiber was attached to heat-pulled tip of the glass capillary using forceps. A protective sheath fitted on the capillary provided protection for the cellulose triacetate hollow fiber with loaded embryos and allowed safe storage in liquid nitrogen for long periods of time (2-12 month), transfer between tanks with liquid nitrogen and transportation within these tanks. No embryos were lost in the process. The device was tested using seven-day-old and eight-day-old IVP bovine blastocysts and expanded blastocysts as a model. Obtained survival (90% at 24 h post warming) and hatching rates (62% at 72 h post warming) of day 7 blastocysts and expanded blastocysts were comparable to those gained using various vitrification carriers. Vitrified embryos did not show an increase in the number of cells with damaged membrane or a decrease in total cell number per embryos in comparison to their non-vitrified counterparts. Day 7 and 8 expanded blastocysts did not differ significantly in terms of survival at 24 (97.01 vs. 97.50%) and 48 h post warming (95.52 vs. 95%), but showed significantly higher survival and hatching rates than day 7 and 8 blastocysts. These results indicated that high and repeatable survival rates can be obtained by selection of IVP bovine embryos at the developmental stage of expanded blastocyst for HFV. Further modification of the method may be required to achieve high and stable results with different developmental stages of IVP bovine embryo. The vitrification device presented in the current article may contribute to wider application of HFV method in livestock production.(AU)

Thermoregulatory responses of sindhi and guzerat heifers under shade in a tropical environment / Respostas termorregulatórias de novilhas sindi e guzerá sob condições de sombra em um ambiente tropical

This study characterized the thermal environment and assessed the physiological aspects of acclimatization of Sindhi and Guzerat heifers in a tropical environment (Brazil) under shade. Eight Sindhi and eight Guzerat purebred heifers (Bos indicus) had their physiological traits measured twice a day (9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.). Environmental data during the experimental period were collected at two-hour intervals between 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The temperature-humidity (THI) and the black globe temperature-humidity (BGHI) indices were calculated, and surface temperature (St), respiratory rate (Rr), and rectal temperature (Rt) were collected, being used to estimate heat loss by cutaneous (Ec) and respiratory (Er) evaporation. In the warmer parts of the day (1:00 and 3:00 p.m.), the THI and BGHI reached values of 80.26 and 81.25, respectively. There was no significant difference in rectal temperatures between the breeds, but higher values were observed in the afternoon. Heat transfer by cutaneous evaporation reached 118.71±12.91 W.m-2 and 103.43±6.82 W.m-2 at 2:00 p.m. for the Sindhi and Guzerat heifers, respectively. Under these conditions (air temperature was between 29 and 30°C), 84% of the total latent heat loss in Sindhi and Guzerat heifers was represented by Ec. It can be concluded that Sindhi and Guzerat heifers can maintain homeothermy with minimal thermoregulatory effort under shade conditions in a tropical environment.

Objetivou-se com este estudo caracterizar o ambiente térmico e respostas fisiológicas de novilhas Sindi e Guzerá em ambiente tropical. Oito novilhas Sindi e oito Guzerá (Bos indicus) foram utilizadas para medições fisiológicas duas vezes ao dia (09:00 e 14:00). Durante o período experimental, os dados ambientais foram coletados em intervalos de duas horas, entre 05:00 e 17:00. O índice de temperatura-umidade (ITU) e o de globo negro-umidade (ITGU) foram calculados. Foram aferidas a temperatura de superfície (TS) , frequência respiratória (FR) e a temperatura retal (TR), sendo estimados a perda de calor por evaporação cutânea (EC) e pelo trato respiratório (Er). Nos horários mais quentes do dia (01:00 e 15:00), o ITU e ITGU atingiram valores de 80,26 e 81,25, respectivamente. Não houve diferença significativa para a temperatura retal entre as raças, contudo, valores mais elevados foram observados no período da tarde. As estimativas para a transferência de calor latente via evaporação cutânea atingiram 118,71 ± 12,91 W.m-2 e 103,43 ± 6,82 W.m-2 no período da tarde (2:00) para as novilhas Sindi e Guzerá, respectivamente. Em condições de temperatura do ar entre 29 e 30 ° C, 84% da perda de calor latente total em novilhas Sindi e Guzerá foi representada pela Ec. Pode-se concluir que novilhas Sindi e Guzerá criadas em condições de sombra, numa região tropical, conseguem manter a homeotermia com baixo dispêndio de energia para a termorregulação.

Thermoregulatory responses of sindhi and guzerat heifers under shade in a tropical environment / Respostas termorregulatórias de novilhas sindi e guzerá sob condições de sombra em um ambiente tropical

This study characterized the thermal environment and assessed the physiological aspects of acclimatization of Sindhi and Guzerat heifers in a tropical environment (Brazil) under shade. Eight Sindhi and eight Guzerat purebred heifers (Bos indicus) had their physiological traits measured twice a day (9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.). Environmental data during the experimental period were collected at two-hour intervals between 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The temperature-humidity (THI) and the black globe temperature-humidity (BGHI) indices were calculated, and surface temperature (St), respiratory rate (Rr), and rectal temperature (Rt) were collected, being used to estimate heat loss by cutaneous (Ec) and respiratory (Er) evaporation. In the warmer parts of the day (1:00 and 3:00 p.m.), the THI and BGHI reached values of 80.26 and 81.25, respectively. There was no significant difference in rectal temperatures between the breeds, but higher values were observed in the afternoon. Heat transfer by cutaneous evaporation reached 118.71±12.91 W.m-2 and 103.43±6.82 W.m-2 at 2:00 p.m. for the Sindhi and Guzerat heifers, respectively. Under these conditions (air temperature was between 29 and 30°C), 84% of the total latent heat loss in Sindhi and Guzerat heifers was represented by Ec. It can be concluded that Sindhi and Guzerat heifers can maintain homeothermy with minimal thermoregulatory effort under shade conditions in a tropical environment.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este estudo caracterizar o ambiente térmico e respostas fisiológicas de novilhas Sindi e Guzerá em ambiente tropical. Oito novilhas Sindi e oito Guzerá (Bos indicus) foram utilizadas para medições fisiológicas duas vezes ao dia (09:00 e 14:00). Durante o período experimental, os dados ambientais foram coletados em intervalos de duas horas, entre 05:00 e 17:00. O índice de temperatura-umidade (ITU) e o de globo negro-umidade (ITGU) foram calculados. Foram aferidas a temperatura de superfície (TS) , frequência respiratória (FR) e a temperatura retal (TR), sendo estimados a perda de calor por evaporação cutânea (EC) e pelo trato respiratório (Er). Nos horários mais quentes do dia (01:00 e 15:00), o ITU e ITGU atingiram valores de 80,26 e 81,25, respectivamente. Não houve diferença significativa para a temperatura retal entre as raças, contudo, valores mais elevados foram observados no período da tarde. As estimativas para a transferência de calor latente via evaporação cutânea atingiram 118,71 ± 12,91 W.m-2 e 103,43 ± 6,82 W.m-2 no período da tarde (2:00) para as novilhas Sindi e Guzerá, respectivamente. Em condições de temperatura do ar entre 29 e 30 ° C, 84% da perda de calor latente total em novilhas Sindi e Guzerá foi representada pela Ec. Pode-se concluir que novilhas Sindi e Guzerá criadas em condições de sombra, numa região tropical, conseguem manter a homeotermia com baixo dispêndio de energia para a termorregulação.(AU)

Influence of a commercial hatchery thermal environmental on the heat loss of fertile broiler eggs

The objectives of this study were to monitor the thermal environment of different hatchery locations during the transfer of fertile eggs from the setter and to the hatcher, to measure egg heat loss, and to determine its effects on hatchery results. In total, 1,728 fertile eggs of Cobb broiler breeders were divided into two treatments. In treatment 1 (T1), after 19 days of incubation, eggs were removed from the incubator and transferred to the hatcher in aninsulated box, and in treatment 0 (T0), eggs were transferred with no thermal insulation (T0). The duration of egg transfer was 10 minutes. Eggs were photographed using a thermographic camera at the exit of the setter, arrival at and exit from the candling room, and arrival at the hatcher. Based on the thermographic images, egg heat loss between these locations was calculated. At hatch, total hatchability, hatchability of fertile eggs, and hatchling weight were recorded and compared between T0 and T1. The temperature and relative humidity of the corridor between the setter and the candling room, of the candling room, of the corridor between candling roomand the hatcher were monitored using data loggers. The results indicated that T1 eggs lost 0.15 kJ less heat than T0 eggs during transfer. However, hatchability and hatchling weight were not affected by transfer treatment during the studies period.