Comparison of cattle embryo collection between Ringer's lactate solution and Dulbecco's phosphatebuffered saline

The objective of this study was to determine the efficiency of Ringer's lactate solution (RL) and RL + 1% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and compare them with the efficiency of Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline (D-PBS). Twenty-two Wagyu female cattle were subjected to superovulation and were randomly distributed to form three groups: group 1 ­ uterine flushing with RL (n = 8), group 2 ­ uterine flushing with RL + 1% FBS (n = 7), and group 3 ­ uterine flushing with D-PBS (n = 7, control group). Cows received a CIDR® device containing 1.9 g of progesterone at random stages of the estrous cycle (day 0). Progesterone withdrawal occurred on day 8 in the morning. For heifers, 160 mg of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH-P) was used and for cows, 200 mg. Prostaglandin F2α was also injected on the eighth day of FSH-P administration. On day 9, in the morning, hCG was administered. Females were superovulated and inseminated twice in a fixed time for embryo transfer. On the 16th day, females were subjected to uterine flushing for embryo collection. We collected 76 embryos from 22 females subjected to superovulation, of which 52 were transferable and 24 had degenerated. The total of embryos collected was 23, 16, and 23 for groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The embryo recovery rates per group were 13.86±4.23, 15.39±4.61 and 27.16±13.33%, in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The means for the total structures collected per female were 2.88±0.85, 3.00±1.23, and 4.57±1.72 in groups flushed with RL, RL + 1% FBS, and D-PBS, respectively. We conclude that Ringer's lactate solution and Ringer's lactate solution + 1% of FBS and Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline showed no significant differences in terms of embryo quality or quantity, suggesting that Ringer's lactate solution is an alternative for collecting embryos in cattle.

Drone production, semen viability and spermatozoa longevity of Africanized Apis mellifera

Characteristics correlated with beekeeping production, less influenced by the environment and that can be controlled by management techniques, can help in the selection of colonies with higher production capacity, aiming to improve breeding programs. This research was carried out to evaluate the production of Africanized Apis mellifera drones and the longevity of spermatozoa from different genetic groups when supplemented with protein or not. Two genetic groups were used: one selected for royal jelly production from the Africanized honeybee breeding program and another without genetic selection. In both groups, the number of drone brood and the quality of semen were evaluated every 30 days, for five months. Statistical analysis was performed using Bayesian Inference. Statistical difference was found for the drone production among the treatments, and colonies without genetic selection produced more males (187.80 ± 11.15) than the selected colonies (93.07 ± 8.88). The selected colonies for royal jelly production presented greater efficiency in the reproductive cycle of males, because they produced fewer drones than colonies without genetic selection, however, with 31% greater semen viability.(AU)

Drone production, semen viability and spermatozoa longevity of Africanized Apis mellifera

Characteristics correlated with beekeeping production, less influenced by the environment and that can be controlled by management techniques, can help in the selection of colonies with higher production capacity, aiming to improve breeding programs. This research was carried out to evaluate the production of Africanized Apis mellifera drones and the longevity of spermatozoa from different genetic groups when supplemented with protein or not. Two genetic groups were used: one selected for royal jelly production from the Africanized honeybee breeding program and another without genetic selection. In both groups, the number of drone brood and the quality of semen were evaluated every 30 days, for five months. Statistical analysis was performed using Bayesian Inference. Statistical difference was found for the drone production among the treatments, and colonies without genetic selection produced more males (187.80 ± 11.15) than the selected colonies (93.07 ± 8.88). The selected colonies for royal jelly production presented greater efficiency in the reproductive cycle of males, because they produced fewer drones than colonies without genetic selection, however, with 31% greater semen viability.

Effects of treatment with quercetin on the quality of cryopreserved bovine semen

Background: Semen cryopreservation is one of the most common biotechnologies in the reproduction of animals ofagricultural interest, especially bulls. However, cryopreservation can be harmful to sperm cells, with susceptibility tooxidative stress being one of the causes. The addition of antioxidants such as quercetin may inhibit and/or reduce suchdamage, reducing fertility. Quercetin can increasing sperm motility and interaction capacity between spermatozoa-oocyte,to increase cellular metabolism and reduced DNA fragmentation and oxidation following thawing. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of quercetin on the metabolism of bovine semen following thawing.Materials, Methods & Results: Three Brahman bulls in reproduction age and previously considered fit for reproductionwere used. The semen samples were collected via the electroejaculation method, and the samples were homogenized toform pooled semen from three ejaculates, which was diluted in Tris-yolk egg-glicerol diluent medium. Quercetin was addedto diluent, to final concentrations of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 μg.mL-1 in each group. The samples were kept frozen in strawsof 500 μL, with concentration of 40,000,000 spermatozoid / mL for 15 days and were thawed in water at 36°C for 30 s.All the tests was performed in five replicates. The cell metabolism status was evaluated by quantification of superoxideradical production with a nitroblue tetrazolium test (NBT) and scanning spectrophotometry. By spermatic evaluation, thefollowing parameters were evaluated via the computerized system of sperm analysis (CASA): total motility (TM, %),progressive motility (PM, %), velocity curved line (VCL, mm/s), velocity straight line (VSL, mm/s), velocity averagepath (VAP, mm/s), distance curved line (DCL, mm), distance straight line (DSL, mm), distance average path (DAP, mm),amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH, mm), beat cross frequency (BCF, Hz), wobble...

Effects of treatment with quercetin on the quality of cryopreserved bovine semen

Background: Semen cryopreservation is one of the most common biotechnologies in the reproduction of animals ofagricultural interest, especially bulls. However, cryopreservation can be harmful to sperm cells, with susceptibility tooxidative stress being one of the causes. The addition of antioxidants such as quercetin may inhibit and/or reduce suchdamage, reducing fertility. Quercetin can increasing sperm motility and interaction capacity between spermatozoa-oocyte,to increase cellular metabolism and reduced DNA fragmentation and oxidation following thawing. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of quercetin on the metabolism of bovine semen following thawing.Materials, Methods & Results: Three Brahman bulls in reproduction age and previously considered fit for reproductionwere used. The semen samples were collected via the electroejaculation method, and the samples were homogenized toform pooled semen from three ejaculates, which was diluted in Tris-yolk egg-glicerol diluent medium. Quercetin was addedto diluent, to final concentrations of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 μg.mL-1 in each group. The samples were kept frozen in strawsof 500 μL, with concentration of 40,000,000 spermatozoid / mL for 15 days and were thawed in water at 36°C for 30 s.All the tests was performed in five replicates. The cell metabolism status was evaluated by quantification of superoxideradical production with a nitroblue tetrazolium test (NBT) and scanning spectrophotometry. By spermatic evaluation, thefollowing parameters were evaluated via the computerized system of sperm analysis (CASA): total motility (TM, %),progressive motility (PM, %), velocity curved line (VCL, mm/s), velocity straight line (VSL, mm/s), velocity averagepath (VAP, mm/s), distance curved line (DCL, mm), distance straight line (DSL, mm), distance average path (DAP, mm),amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH, mm), beat cross frequency (BCF, Hz), wobble...(AU)

Aerobic stability, chemical composition and ruminal degradability of sugarcane silage with glycerin from biodiesel / Estabilidade aeróbia, composição química e degradabilidade ruminal da cana-de-açúcar ensilada com glicerina de biodiesel

The experiment was performed with the objective of studying the ensiled sugarcane silage with 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% of glycerin in experimental PVC silos. The aerobic stability was assessed by measuring the pH and the temperature of the silage at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120h. The chemical composition, the levels of non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) and the total digestible nutrients (TDN) were evaluated. The in vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDDM) and the in vitro digestibility of the cell wall (IVDCW) in the silages were evaluated. In three fistulated cattle the in situ degradability of dry matter (DM) and the disappearance percentage of the neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in samples incubated at 0, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96h were analyzed. The experimental design was completely randomized and the statistical analyzes were done using Bayesian inference. Increases were observed in DM, TDN, mineral matter, NFC and reductions in NDF, acid detergent fiber, crude protein and ether extract as the inclusion of glycerin was higher. IVDDM increased (P 0.05) in silage with 15 and 20% of glycerin in relation to those with 0, 5 and 10%. The IVDCW at levels of 10, 15 and 20% of glycerin was higher (P 0.05) compared to the other treatments. Increases were observed in the soluble portion (a), a reduction in the insoluble fraction (b), and an increase in the degradability fraction constant (c) of the silages with 5, 10, 15 and 20% of glycerin (P <0.05) compared to the control. Glycerin improved aerobic stability while maintaining a low pH and temperature during the observation period at levels of 15 and 20% of glycerin against the silage with 0, 5 and 10%. These results indicate glycerin as a promising additive for sugarcane silage, being able to enhance energy density and improve the aerobic stability of the ensiled matter when its inclusion is from 10 to 20%.(AU)

Objetivou-se estudar a silagem de cana-de-açúcar ensilada com 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina em silos experimentais de PVC. Avaliou-se a estabilidade aeróbia medindo-se o pH e a temperatura da massa ensilada em 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 e 120h. Avaliaram-se a composição química, os teores de carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF) e nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT). Avaliaram-se a digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) e da parede celular (DIVPC) das silagens. Em três bovinos fistulados avaliou-se a degradabilidade in situ da matéria seca (MS) e a porcentagem de desaparecimento da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) em amostras incubadas em 0, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 e 96h. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado e as análises estatísticas realizadas por meio de Inferência Bayesiana. Observaram-se aumentos na MS, NDT, matéria mineral, CNF e a redução de FDN, fibra em detergente ácido, proteína bruta e extrato etéreo à medida que a inclusão da glicerina foi maior. Houve aumento na DIVMS nas silagens com 15 e 20% de glicerina em relação às com 0, 5 e 10%. A DIVPC nos teores de 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina foi maior em relação aos outros tratamentos. Foram observados aumentos na porção solúvel (a), redução da fração insolúvel (b) e aumento da constante de degradabilidade da fração (c) das silagens com 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina em relação ao controle. A glicerina melhorou a estabilidade aeróbia, mantendo o pH e temperatura baixos no período de observação nos teores de 15 e 20% de glicerina em relação as silagens com 0, 5 e 10%. Esses resultados indicam a glicerina como um promissor aditivo para silagens de cana-de-açúcar, sendo capaz de enriquecer a densidade energética e melhorar a estabilidade aeróbia do material ensilado a partir de uma inclusão de 10 a 20%.(AU)

Nutritional composition and ruminal degradability of corn silage (Zea mays L. ) with addition of glycerin in silage / Composição nutricional e degradabilidade ruminal da silagem de milho (Zea mays L. ) com adição de glicerina na ensilagem

The objective was to study the corn silage with addition of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% glycerin, ensiled in experimental silos of PVC. At the opening of the silos there were evaluated the chemical composition, in vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDDM) and cell wall (IVDCW) and aerobic stability through measures of temperature and pH of silage at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours. In situ degradability of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber of silages were evaluated in fistulated cattle using samples incubated at 0, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 96 hours. The experimental design was completely randomized design and statistical analyzes were performed using Bayesian inference. Increases were observed in DM, mineral matter (MM), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) and reductions for neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) as the inclusion of glycerin was higher. The content of total digestible nutrients (TDN) estimated in treatments with 5, 10, 15 and 20% glycerin, were superior to the control (P 0,05) range of 2.13, 8.95, 10.33 and 13.13% respectively. The temperature and pH of the silage with 10 and 15 and 20% glycerin remained lower than those levels (P 0,05) measured during silage and 20% glycerin showed high stability after 120horas. The IVDDM and IVDCW in corn silages with 15 and 20% were higher than the other (P<0,05). The effective degradability of DM fractions in passage rates of 2, 5 and 8% / h was better in silage with 15% and 20% glycerin. Glycerin has proved to be a great additive for corn silage being ableto enrich the energy density, improving the degradability of DM and maintaining the aerobic stability of silage.(AU)

Objetivou-se estudar a silagem de milho ensilada com 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina, em silos experimentais de PVC. Foi avaliada a estabilidade aeróbia por medidas de pH e temperatura da massa  ensilada (TME) às 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 e 120h. Foi avaliada a composição química e a digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) e da parede celular (DIVPC). Em três bovinos fistulados avaliou-se a degradabilidade in situ da matéria seca (MS), e a porcentagem de desaparecimento da proteína bruta (PB) e da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) incubadas em 0, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 e 96h. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado e as análises estatísticas realizadas por Inferência Bayesiana. Foram observados aumentos de MS, CNF, matéria mineral e a redução de FDN, PB, fibra em detergente ácido e extrato etéreo à medida que se aumentou a inclusão da glicerina. O NDT estimado nas silagens com 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina, foi superior ao controle (P 0,05) variando de 2,13; 8,95; 10,33 e 13,13%, respectivamente. O pH e a TME das silagens com 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina se mantiveram inferiores (P 0,05) aos com 0 e 5% de glicerina no período avaliado, destacando-se a silagem com 20% de glicerina com maior estabilidade até 120h. A DIVMS e DIVPC nas silagens com 15 e 20% foram superiores (P 0,05) as com 0, 5 e 10% de glicerina. A degradabilidade efetiva da MS nas taxas de passagem de 2, 5 e 8%/h foram melhores na silagem com 15 e 20% de glicerina (P<0,05). A glicerina demonstrou ser um aditivo capaz de enriquecer a densidade energética, melhorar a degradabilidade ruminal da MS e manter a estabilidade aeróbia nas silagens de milho.(AU)

Nutritional composition and ruminal degradability of corn silage (Zea mays L. ) with addition of glycerin in silage / Composição nutricional e degradabilidade ruminal da silagem de milho (Zea mays L. ) com adição de glicerina na ensilagem

The objective was to study the corn silage with addition of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% glycerin, ensiled in experimental silos of PVC. At the opening of the silos there were evaluated the chemical composition, in vitro digestibility of dry matter (IVDDM) and cell wall (IVDCW) and aerobic stability through measures of temperature and pH of silage at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours. In situ degradability of dry matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber of silages were evaluated in fistulated cattle using samples incubated at 0, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 96 hours. The experimental design was completely randomized design and statistical analyzes were performed using Bayesian inference. Increases were observed in DM, mineral matter (MM), non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) and reductions for neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) as the inclusion of glycerin was higher. The content of total digestible nutrients (TDN) estimated in treatments with 5, 10, 15 and 20% glycerin, were superior to the control (P 0,05) range of 2.13, 8.95, 10.33 and 13.13% respectively. The temperature and pH of the silage with 10 and 15 and 20% glycerin remained lower than those levels (P 0,05) measured during silage and 20% glycerin showed high stability after 120horas. The IVDDM and IVDCW in corn silages with 15 and 20% were higher than the other (P<0,05). The effective degradability of DM fractions in passage rates of 2, 5 and 8% / h was better in silage with 15% and 20% glycerin. Glycerin has proved to be a great additive for corn silage being ableto enrich the energy density, improving the degradability of DM and maintaining the aerobic stability of silage.

Objetivou-se estudar a silagem de milho ensilada com 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina, em silos experimentais de PVC. Foi avaliada a estabilidade aeróbia por medidas de pH e temperatura da massa  ensilada (TME) às 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 e 120h. Foi avaliada a composição química e a digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS) e da parede celular (DIVPC). Em três bovinos fistulados avaliou-se a degradabilidade in situ da matéria seca (MS), e a porcentagem de desaparecimento da proteína bruta (PB) e da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) incubadas em 0, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 e 96h. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualisado e as análises estatísticas realizadas por Inferência Bayesiana. Foram observados aumentos de MS, CNF, matéria mineral e a redução de FDN, PB, fibra em detergente ácido e extrato etéreo à medida que se aumentou a inclusão da glicerina. O NDT estimado nas silagens com 5, 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina, foi superior ao controle (P 0,05) variando de 2,13; 8,95; 10,33 e 13,13%, respectivamente. O pH e a TME das silagens com 10, 15 e 20% de glicerina se mantiveram inferiores (P 0,05) aos com 0 e 5% de glicerina no período avaliado, destacando-se a silagem com 20% de glicerina com maior estabilidade até 120h. A DIVMS e DIVPC nas silagens com 15 e 20% foram superiores (P 0,05) as com 0, 5 e 10% de glicerina. A degradabilidade efetiva da MS nas taxas de passagem de 2, 5 e 8%/h foram melhores na silagem com 15 e 20% de glicerina (P<0,05). A glicerina demonstrou ser um aditivo capaz de enriquecer a densidade energética, melhorar a degradabilidade ruminal da MS e manter a estabilidade aeróbia nas silagens de milho.

Qualidade do sêmen em tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus), alimentadas com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de vitamina C / Semen quality in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), fed with diets containing different vitamin C levels

A vitamina C atua na proteção de danos celulares provocados pelos radicaislivres, sendo a suplementação considerada essencial para a maioria das espécies de peixes, uma vez que não a sintetizam em função da ausência da enzima L-gulonolactona oxidase.Assim, avaliou-se o efeito da suplementação de 0, 75, 150 e 225 mg de vitamina C kg-1 de ração na qualidade do sêmen em tilápias do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). Os parâmetrosquali-quantitativos do sêmen não foram influenciados pela suplementação de vitamina C, exceto a motilidade progressiva que aumentou linearmente com adição de vitamina C. Conclui-se que os reprodutores de tilápias do Nilo devem ser suplementados com 225 mgde vitamina C kg-1 de ração.(AU)

Vitamin C acts as cellular protection from damage by free radicals, and vitamin C supplementation is considered essential for most fish species, as they do not synthesize it due to the absence of enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase. Thus, the effect of supplementation with 0, 75, 150 and 225 mg of vitamin C kg-1of ration was evaluated in the semen quality in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Seminal parameters were not influenced by vitamin C supplementation except progressive motility, which increased linearly with the addition of vitamin C. It was concluded that Nile tilapia reproducers should be supplemented with 225 mg vitamin C kg-1 ration.(AU)

Qualidade do sêmen em tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus), alimentadas com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de vitamina C / Semen quality in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), fed with diets containing different vitamin C levels

A vitamina C atua na proteção de danos celulares provocados pelos radicaislivres, sendo a suplementação considerada essencial para a maioria das espécies de peixes, uma vez que não a sintetizam em função da ausência da enzima L-gulonolactona oxidase.Assim, avaliou-se o efeito da suplementação de 0, 75, 150 e 225 mg de vitamina C kg-1 de ração na qualidade do sêmen em tilápias do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). Os parâmetrosquali-quantitativos do sêmen não foram influenciados pela suplementação de vitamina C, exceto a motilidade progressiva que aumentou linearmente com adição de vitamina C. Conclui-se que os reprodutores de tilápias do Nilo devem ser suplementados com 225 mgde vitamina C kg-1 de ração.

Vitamin C acts as cellular protection from damage by free radicals, and vitamin C supplementation is considered essential for most fish species, as they do not synthesize it due to the absence of enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase. Thus, the effect of supplementation with 0, 75, 150 and 225 mg of vitamin C kg-1of ration was evaluated in the semen quality in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Seminal parameters were not influenced by vitamin C supplementation except progressive motility, which increased linearly with the addition of vitamin C. It was concluded that Nile tilapia reproducers should be supplemented with 225 mg vitamin C kg-1 ration.

Digestibilidade aparente, crescimento folicular e concentração de metabólitos sanguíneos de éguas recebendo concentrado com semente de linhaça integral (Linum usitatissimum L. ) / Apparent digestibility, follicular growthand concentration of blood metabolites of mares receiving concentrate with whole linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

O experimento foi realizado para se avaliar a inclusão da semente de linhaça integral na dieta de éguas por meio da avaliação dos coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes e seu efeito no crescimento folicular e na concentração de metabólitos sanguíneos. Foram utilizadas 16 éguas, alimentadas com dois concentrados, sendo um sem semente de linhaça integral e outro com 10% de semente de linhaça integral, utilizando-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Foram avaliados os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente (CDa) para a MS, MM, PB, FB, FDN, FDA e EE. Para determinação dos parâmetros reprodutivos (duração do estro, intervalo entre aplicação da prostaglandina F2 alfa e o estro e tamanho do folículo ovulatório) e sanguíneos (glicose, triglicerídeos, progesterona, colesterol total, HDL, LDL e VLDL), os animais receberam prostaglandina F2 alfa na dose de 1 mL animal-1 intramuscular-1 e no décimo dia, após ovulação, foi realizada a coleta de sangue. A inclusão da semente de linhaça integral aumentou (p < 0,05) os CDa da MS, MM, FB, FDN e FDA, porém não foi observada diferença (p > 0,05) entre os dois tratamentos para os CDa da PB e EE. A inclusão da semente de linhaça integral na dieta de equinos melhorou a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes, em especial da fração fibrosa da dieta e não apresentou alterações nos parâmetros reprodutivos e sanguíneos.(AU)

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the inclusion of whole linseed in the diet of mares through the evaluation of the apparent digestibility coefficients of the nutrients and their effect in the follicular growth and concentration of blood metabolites. Sixteen mares were used, fed with two concentrates one without whole linseed and the other with 10% whole linseed, using a randomized experimental design. The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) were measured for DM, MM, CP, CF, NDF, ADF and EE. In order to determine the reproductive parameters (duration of the estrus, interval between application of the prostaglandin F2 alpha and the estrus, and size of the ovulatory follicle) and blood parameters (glucose, triglycerides, progesterone, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and VLDL), the animals received prostaglandin F2 alpha in the dose of 1 mL animal-1 intramuscular-1 and in the 10th day after ovulation the collection of blood was conducted. The inclusion of whole linseed increased (p < 0.05) the ADC of DM, MM, CF, NDF and ADF; however, difference was not observed (p > 0.05) between both treatments for the ADC of CP and EE. The inclusion of whole linseed in the diet of equines improved the apparent digestibiliy of the nutrients, especially of the fibrous fraction of the diet, and it did result in alterations in reproductive and blood parameters.(AU)

Desempenho reprodutivo de coelhas submetidas a diferentes níveis de energia digestível nas dietas e idades de desmama de suas ninhadas / Reproductive performance of rabbits does submitted to different levels of digestible energy on diet and litter weaning ages

Foram utilizadas 240 ninhadas oriundas de 80 matrizes NZB, nulíparas, durante três ciclos reprodutivos, submetidas a um ritmo de reprodução de 42 dias, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2 x 3 (2.600 e 2.800 kcal ED kg-1 de ração versus desmama aos 28 e 35 dias versus três ciclos reprodutivos). O nível de ED nas rações não afetou o peso das matrizes na desmama de seus láparos e as taxas de fertilidade, independente do ciclo reprodutivo. A melhor condição corporal nos três ciclos das matrizes que desmamaram seus láparos aos 28 dias, permitiu taxas de fertilidade mais altas durante todo o período experimental. À exceção do tamanho da ninhada ao nascer, que foi menor no primeiro parto, o tamanho da ninhada aos 21 dias e na desmama, não foram influenciados por qualquer dos fatores estudados. O peso vivo dos láparos do primeiro parto foram mais leves comparados aos do segundo e do terceiro partos. A menor concentração energética na ração prejudicou o peso vivo da ninhada aos 21 dias e na desmama somente quando as matrizes desmamaram seus láparos mais precocemente (28 dias). Os resultados sugerem o uso de 2.800 kcal ED kg-1 de ração somente quando as matrizes desmamam suas ninhadas com 28 dias de idade. A desmama dos láparos aos 28 dias de idade permite melhor recuperação das matrizes e, consequentemente, melhor taxa de fertilidade.(AU)

Were evaluated 240 litters from 80 first-birth WNZ rabbit does, submitted to a reproductive rhythm of 42d during three reproductive cycles. The rabbit does were allocated in a completely randomized design in a 2 x 2 x 3 factorial scheme (diets with 2600 and 2800 kcal DE kg-1 versus young rabbits weaned at 28 and 35 days old versus three reproductive cycles). No effect of digestible energy levels was observed on live weight of females in the moment of litter weaning and fertility rate for the three reproductive cycles. The best body conditions of the females who weaned the litters at 28 days old enhanced the fertility rate during the experimental period. Except for litter size at parturition, which was smaller in the first cycle, litter size at 21 day olds and at weaning were not influenced by any of the studied factors. The litter live birth weight was lower than for the second and third reproductive cycles. The lower energetic level in the diet (2,600 kcal DE kg-1) reduced the litter weight at 21 day olds and at weaning only for the rabbit does weaning the litters at 28 days olds. The results suggest the use of diet with 2,800 kcal DE kg-1 only when the rabbit does wean the litters at 28 days old. Weaning at 28 days old allows the best body conditions for the rabbit does and higher rate fertility.(AU)

Desempenho reprodutivo de coelhas submetidas a diferentes níveis de energia digestível nas dietas e idades de desmama de suas ninhadas / Reproductive performance of rabbits does submitted to different levels of digestible energy on diet and litter weaning ages

Foram utilizadas 240 ninhadas oriundas de 80 matrizes NZB, nulíparas, durante três ciclos reprodutivos, submetidas a um ritmo de reprodução de 42 dias, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2 x 3 (2.600 e 2.800 kcal ED kg-1 de ração versus desmama aos 28 e 35 dias versus três ciclos reprodutivos). O nível de ED nas rações não afetou o peso das matrizes na desmama de seus láparos e as taxas de fertilidade, independente do ciclo reprodutivo. A melhor condição corporal nos três ciclos das matrizes que desmamaram seus láparos aos 28 dias, permitiu taxas de fertilidade mais altas durante todo o período experimental. À exceção do tamanho da ninhada ao nascer, que foi menor no primeiro parto, o tamanho da ninhada aos 21 dias e na desmama, não foram influenciados por qualquer dos fatores estudados. O peso vivo dos láparos do primeiro parto foram mais leves comparados aos do segundo e do terceiro partos. A menor concentração energética na ração prejudicou o peso vivo da ninhada aos 21 dias e na desmama somente quando as matrizes desmamaram seus láparos mais precocemente (28 dias). Os resultados sugerem o uso de 2.800 kcal ED kg-1 de ração somente quando as matrizes desmamam suas ninhadas com 28 dias de idade. A desmama dos láparos aos 28 dias de idade permite melhor recuperação das matrizes e, consequentemente, melhor taxa de fertilidade.

Were evaluated 240 litters from 80 first-birth WNZ rabbit does, submitted to a reproductive rhythm of 42d during three reproductive cycles. The rabbit does were allocated in a completely randomized design in a 2 x 2 x 3 factorial scheme (diets with 2600 and 2800 kcal DE kg-1 versus young rabbits weaned at 28 and 35 days old versus three reproductive cycles). No effect of digestible energy levels was observed on live weight of females in the moment of litter weaning and fertility rate for the three reproductive cycles. The best body conditions of the females who weaned the litters at 28 days old enhanced the fertility rate during the experimental period. Except for litter size at parturition, which was smaller in the first cycle, litter size at 21 day olds and at weaning were not influenced by any of the studied factors. The litter live birth weight was lower than for the second and third reproductive cycles. The lower energetic level in the diet (2,600 kcal DE kg-1) reduced the litter weight at 21 day olds and at weaning only for the rabbit does weaning the litters at 28 days olds. The results suggest the use of diet with 2,800 kcal DE kg-1 only when the rabbit does wean the litters at 28 days old. Weaning at 28 days old allows the best body conditions for the rabbit does and higher rate fertility.

Digestibilidade aparente, crescimento folicular e concentração de metabólitos sanguíneos de éguas recebendo concentrado com semente de linhaça integral (Linum usitatissimum L. ) / Apparent digestibility, follicular growthand concentration of blood metabolites of mares receiving concentrate with whole linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

O experimento foi realizado para se avaliar a inclusão da semente de linhaça integral na dieta de éguas por meio da avaliação dos coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes e seu efeito no crescimento folicular e na concentração de metabólitos sanguíneos. Foram utilizadas 16 éguas, alimentadas com dois concentrados, sendo um sem semente de linhaça integral e outro com 10% de semente de linhaça integral, utilizando-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Foram avaliados os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente (CDa) para a MS, MM, PB, FB, FDN, FDA e EE. Para determinação dos parâmetros reprodutivos (duração do estro, intervalo entre aplicação da prostaglandina F2 alfa e o estro e tamanho do folículo ovulatório) e sanguíneos (glicose, triglicerídeos, progesterona, colesterol total, HDL, LDL e VLDL), os animais receberam prostaglandina F2 alfa na dose de 1 mL animal-1 intramuscular-1 e no décimo dia, após ovulação, foi realizada a coleta de sangue. A inclusão da semente de linhaça integral aumentou (p 0,05) entre os dois tratamentos para os CDa da PB e EE. A inclusão da semente de linhaça integral na dieta de equinos melhorou a digestibilidade aparente dos nutrientes, em especial da fração fibrosa da dieta e não apresentou alterações nos parâmetros reprodutivos e sanguíneos.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the inclusion of whole linseed in the diet of mares through the evaluation of the apparent digestibility coefficients of the nutrients and their effect in the follicular growth and concentration of blood metabolites. Sixteen mares were used, fed with two concentrates – one without whole linseed and the other with 10% whole linseed, using a randomized experimental design. The apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) were measured for DM, MM, CP, CF, NDF, ADF and EE. In order to determine the reproductive parameters (duration of the estrus, interval between application of the prostaglandin F2 alpha and the estrus, and size of the ovulatory follicle) and blood parameters (glucose, triglycerides, progesterone, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and VLDL), the animals received prostaglandin F2 alpha in the dose of 1 mL animal-1 intramuscular-1 and in the 10th day after ovulation the collection of blood was conducted. The inclusion of whole linseed increased (p 0.05) between both treatments for the ADC of CP and EE. The inclusion of whole linseed in the diet of equines improved the apparent digestibiliy of the nutrients, especially of the fibrous fraction of the diet, and it did result in alterations in reproductive and blood parameters.

Evaluation of semen quality from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) supplemented with different vitamin C concentrations / Avaliação da qualidade do sêmen de tilápia-do-Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus), linhagem chitralada, suplementada com diferentes concentrações de vitamina C

Through this study, the effect of the diet supplementation with 0; 75; 150; 225; 300 mg of vitamin C/kg of ration on semen quality of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) was evaluated. Qualitative (spermatic morphology, progressive spermatic motility and spermatic vigor) and quantitative parameters (spermatic concentration, semen volume and total number of spermatozoa) were analyzed. No differences (P > 0.05) on semen volume, spermatic vigor, progressive spermatic motility, spermatic concentration, total number of spermatozoa in the semen released and normal spermatozoa were registered. With the vitamin C increment in the ration, there was observed an increase on the percentual of primary pathologies and a reduction on the percentual of secondary pathologies. However, a reduction of the percentage of total pathologies was observed when 300 mg of vitamin C/kg of ration were added.

Neste estudo avaliou-se o efeito da suplementação de 0; 75; 150; 225; e 300 mg de vitamina C/kg de ração na qualidade do sêmen de tilápia-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). Foram analisados parâmetros qualitativos (morfologia espermática, motilidade espermática progressiva e vigor espermático) e quantitativos (concentração de espermatozoides, volume de sêmen e número total de espermatozoides) do sêmen. O volume de sêmen, o vigor espermático, a motilidade espermática progressiva, a concentração de espermatozoides, o número total de espermatozoides no sêmen colhido e porcentagem de espermatozoides normais não foram influenciados (P > 0,05) pela adição de vitamina C. Notou-se que houve aumento percentual de patologias primárias e redução percentual de patologias secundárias à medida que se elevava o nível de vitamina C na ração. No entanto, em termos de patologias totais, o melhor resultado foi observado com a suplementação de 300 mg de vitamina C/kg de ração

Comparação do sêmen de Curimbá (Prochilodus lineatus) induzido por extrato de hipófise de frango, coelho ou carpa / Comparison of Curimba semen (Prochilodus lineatus) induced by pituitary extract from chicken, rabbit or carp

Foram selecionados 48 Curimbás (Prochilodus lineatus) e hipofisados com extrato de hipófise de frango (EHF), extrato de hipófise de coelho (EHCo) e o controle com extrato de hipófise de carpa (EHC). Os animais foram induzidos, aleatoriamente, com os tratamentos arranjados em um fatorial de três hormônios e três semanas. Animais tratados com EHF, EHC ou EHCo produziram, em média, 0,65, 0,45 e 0,20 mL de sêmen, respectivamente, havendo diferença (P<0,05) entre os tratamentos com EHF e EHCo, mesmo comportamento verificado para o número médio de espermatozóides totais produzidos. Para os animais tratados com EHCo, houve maior concentração de espermatozóides/mm³ de sêmen quando comparado com os machos induzidos com EHC (P<0,05). Todavia, não houve diferença (P>0,05) quando comparados com os machos induzidos com EHF. Prochilodus lineatus induzidos com EHF mostraram motilidade espermática progressiva superior (P<0,05) aos animais induzidos com EHC, porém, Prochilodus lineatus induzidos com EHCo apresentaram um comportamento semelhante (P>0,05) aos tratados com EHC ou EHF. Quanto ao vigor espermático, os machos responderam de forma semelhante (P>0,05) para os três indutores utilizados, sendo em média, 2,75 pontos. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, conclui-se que o EHF apresentou eficiência semelhante ou melhor do que o tradicional EHC. Entretanto, o EHCo necessita de mais pesquisas, visando testar hipófise de animais mais idosos. (AU)

Forty eight curimba (Prochilodus lineatus) were selected and hipophysed with broiler chicken hypophysis extract (BCHE), rabbit hypophysis extract (RHE) or carp hypophysis extract (CHE) as a control. The animals were randomly induced with treatments arranged in one factorial of three hormones and three weeks. Animals treated with BCHE, CHE and RHE produced an average of 0.65, 0.45 and 0.20 mL of semen, respectively. Therefore, difference (P<0.05) between BCHE and RHE treatments was observed. The same behavior was verified for total spermatozoon average number produced. Animals treated with RHE presented higher semen concentration (spermatozoon/mm3) than males induced with CHE (P<0.05). However, there was no differences (P>0.05) when compared with males induced with BCHE. Prochilodus lineatus induced with BCHE showed higher progressive spermatic motility (P<0.05) than animals induced with CHE. However, Prochilodus lineatus induced with RHE exhibited similar behavior (P>0.05) of animals treated with CHE or BCHE. Animals treated with BCHE, RHE or CHE had same spermatic vigor (P>0.05), with an average of 2.75 points. According to these results it is possible to concluded that BCHE showed the same efficiency or it was even better than traditional CHE when used to induced males. However, more research effort with RHE is necessary, particulary with older animals hypophysis. (AU)

Evaluation of genetic diversity in subspecies and crossing of ostriches (Struthio camelus) with the use of RAPD markers- DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v27i2.1222 / Avaliação de diversidade genética em subespécies e cruzamento de avestruzes (Struthio camelus) com o uso de marcadores RAPD - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v27i2.1222

Concerning Strutioculture, the links between physical characteristics and performance need additional study, and, the pieces of information on genetic variability are minima. Therefore, the current work represents an important step in studies of ostrich genetics. Blood samples of 30 animals were collected, males and females, of the sub species Blue Neck, African Black and the crossing Red Blue (Red Neck X Blue Neck), to DNA extraction. After amplification, the products were analyzed and interpreted through the RAPD technique, providing data of genetic similarity among the individuals with the use of Jaccard coefficient, and data of genetic distance among sub species and genetic diversity within the sub species through the Nei coefficient. The obtained results demonstrated low similarity and high genetic diversity among analyzed individuals of each sub specie, however the genetic distances among the sub species were not significant, indicating that there was no genetic differentiation among the subspecies. The values of genetic differentiation between the sub specie Blue Neck and the crossing Red Blue were next to the significance, suggesting a bigger genetic diversity between these sub species

Na estrutiocultura as ligações entre características físicas e desempenho precisam de investigação adicional e as informações sobre diversidade genética são mínimas. Portanto, o presente trabalho representa um importante passo em estudos de genética de avestruzes. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 30 animais, machos e fêmeas, das subespécies Blue Neck, African Black e do cruzamento Red Blue (Red Neck X Blue Neck), para extração de DNA. Após amplificação, os produtos foram analisados e interpretados pela técnica RAPD, fornecendo dados de similaridade genética entre os indivíduos com a utilização do coeficiente de Jaccard e dados de distância genética entre as subespécies e diversidade genética dentro de subespécies através do coeficiente de Nei. Os resultados alcançados demonstraram baixa similaridade e alta diversidade genética entre os indivíduos analisados de cada subespécie, porém as distâncias genéticas entre as subespécies não foram significativas, indicando que não houve diferenciação genética entre subespécies. Os valores de diferenciação genética entre a subespécie Blue Neck e o cruzamento Red Blue ficaram próximos da significância, sugerindo uma maior diversidade genética entre elas

Artificial insemination of Percheron and Breton breed mares with fresh semen diluted in extenders with skimmed powder milk and coconut water / Inseminação artificial de éguas Percheron e Bretão com sêmen fresco diluído em água de côco e leite em pó desnatado

This experiment was carried out at Animal Reproduction Laboratory and Equine Section of the Experimental Farm of Universidade Estadual de Maringá, in the period of September 97 trough March 98. The objective was to study the effects of two extenders on artificial insemination (AI) of Percheron and Breton breeding mares. One Percheron stallion and sixteen mares were used. The mares were inseminated with fresh semen diluted in two extenders formulated with skimmed powder cow milk (LS) and coconut water (AW) on the day ovarian follicles with 3.5 cm of diameter were observed. They. were alloted in a completely randomized design with eight animals in each treatments. The data were analyzed utilizing chi-square test and variance analyses. The analysis of the data showed there were no difference (P > 0.05) between the treatments regarding pregnancy rate of the mares in first, second and third estrous cycles, number of fecund and not fecund artificial inseminations, pregnancy/AI, total pregnancy rate, number of AI/pregnancy, progressive motility and vigor of spermatozoa of semen. The result led to the conclusion that both extenders were efficient in the AI of these breed mares, utilizing fresh semen.

O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Reprodução Animal e no Setor de Eqüideocultura da Fazenda Experimental da Universidade Estadual de Maringá, no período de setembro/97 a março/98, com o objetivo de testar os efeitos de dois diluidores na inseminação artificial de éguas das raças Percheron e Bretão. Foi utilizado um garanhão da raça Percheron e dezesseis éguas, as quais foram inseminadas com sêmen fresco, diluído em meios formulados à base de leite de vaca em pó desnatado (LD) e à base de água de côco (AC). As inseminações foram realizadas quando se observaram folículos ovarianos com 3,5 cm de diâmetro. Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com oito éguas em cada tratamento. Para as análises utilizou-se o teste do qui-quadrado e análise de variância. A análise dos dados mostrou que não houve diferença (P > 0,05) dos tratamentos sobre o índice de prenhez das éguas no primeiro, segundo e terceiro ciclos estrais, no número de inseminações artificiais fecundas e não-fecundas, na prenhez/inseminação artificial (IA), no índice de prenhez total, na IA/prenhez e entre a motilidade progressiva e o vigor dos espermatozóides após diluição. Com base nos resultados, pode-se concluir que os dois meios foram eficientes na inseminação artificial dessas raças de éguas, utilizando-se o sêmen fresco.

Reproductive performance of rabbit does fed with rations containing different sources of vegetable oil - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v28i3.43 / Desempenho reprodutivo de coelhas alimentadas com ração contendo diferentes fontes de óleo vegetal - DOI: 10.4025/actascianimsci.v28i3.43

One hundred and twenty rabbit does, were evaluated during two productive cycles. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with four treatments (oil-free rations and 3% canola oil, corn oil or soybean oil rations) and 30 replications. While data of live weight of rabbit does were collected in each breeding, on birth, on the 21st and the 35th days of lactation, those on feed intake were recorded during gestation, on the first 21 days of lactation and during the total period of lactation (35 days). Data on the litters live weight and number on birth, on the 21st and the 35th days, were also obtained. There were no differences (p>0.05) among treatments with regard to performance parameters of rabbit does on the first reproductive cycle. However, data concerning the second cycle demonstrated a better live weight (p0.05) by rations containing different sources of vegetable oil fed during the two reproductive cycles

Foram avaliadas 120 matrizes de coelhas durante dois ciclos reprodutivos. Os animais foram distribuídos em um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com 4 tratamentos (ração sem óleo e ração com 3% de óleo de canola, de óleo de milho ou de óleo de soja) e 30 repetições. Foram coletados os dados de peso vivo das coelhas em cada cobrição, no parto, aos 21 e aos 35 dias de lactação e de consumo durante a gestação, os primeiros 21 dias de lactação e durante o período total de lactação (35 dias). Também foram obtidos os dados referentes ao peso vivo e ao número de láparos ao nascimento, aos 21 e aos 35 dias. Não foram observadas diferenças (P>0,05) entre os tratamentos quanto aos parâmetros de desempenho das coelhas no primeiro ciclo reprodutivo. No entanto os dados referentes ao segundo ciclo demonstraram maior peso vivo (P