Testicular biometry and hierarchy of dominance of the white-lipped peccary (Mammalia, Tayassuidae) / Biometria testicular e hierarquia de dominância do queixada (Mammalia, Tayassuidae)

The objective of this study was to obtain data on the testicular biometry of the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) and to verify if there is a correlation between the individual's biometric data with their dominance rank. Data were collected from 16 adult males, aged between two and seven years, who made up the same group. By the agonistic interactions analyses we calculated the linearity indexes (h') of the dominance hierarchy and dominance rank. At the end of the behavioral observations, males were captured to collect biometric data from the testis. White-lipped peccaries showed testicles located in a perineal position, inclined cranio-ventrally with oval shape, flattened laterally and with tenso-elastic consistency (2.54±0.07). There was variance in the means (± standard deviation) of testis length (5.88±1.05cm), width (4.24 ± 0.98cm), height (4.44±0.86cm), and total scrotal width (8.78±17.05). The linear dominance hierarchy described the social structure of the males of this group (h'>0.9), with probability of linearity in the hierarchy greater than chance (P = 0.02). There was a correlation between dominance rank with the body mass, length and volume of the testicles. As in general the dimensions of the testicles are directly correlated with sperm production and also testosterone, this characteristic favors the reproductive performance of dominant white-lips males. Therefore, the characteristics of testicular biometry of white-lips should be considered for the selection of individuals more likely to reproduce in captivity favoring the conservation of this vulnerable species.(AU)

O objetivo neste estudo foi obter dados sobre a biometria testicular do queixada (Tayassu pecari) e verificar se há correlação entre os dados biométricos do indivíduo com seu posto de dominância. Os dados foram coletados de 16 queixadas adultos, com idades entre dois e sete anos, que compunham o mesmo grupo. Por meio de análises das interações agonísticas foram calculados os índices de linearidade (h') da hierarquia de dominância e determinado o rank dos indivíduos. Ao final das observações comportamentais, os machos foram capturados para coleta de dados biométricos do testículo. Os queixadas apresentaram testículos localizados em posição perineal, inclinados cranioventralmente com formato oval, achatados láterolateralmente e com consistência tensoelástica (2,54±0,07). Houve variação nas médias (± desvio padrão) do comprimento testicular (5,88±1,05cm), largura (4,24±0,98cm), altura (4,44±0,86cm) e largura escrotal total (8,78±17,05). A hierarquia de dominância linear descreveu a estrutura social dos machos desse grupo (h'>0,9), com probabilidade de linearidade na hierarquia maior que o acaso (P = 0,02). Houve correlação entre a classificação de dominância com a massa corporal, comprimento e volume dos testículos. Como em geral as dimensões dos testículos estão diretamente correlacionadas com a produção de esperma e também de testosterona, essa característica favorece o desempenho reprodutivo de machos de queixadas brancos dominantes. Portanto, as características da biometria testicular de queixadas devem ser consideradas para a seleção de indivíduos com maior probabilidade de reprodução em cativeiro favorecendo a conservação desta espécie vulnerável.(AU)

Biometria testicular e sua influência no comportamento sexual de búfalos (Bubalus buballis) / Testicular parameters and its influence in buffaloes (Bubalus buballis) sexual behaviour

Background: Brazil is one of the greatest bovine meat exporter in the world. However, the technologies applied at buffalo’s reproduction is not specific for this specie, adapted technics were established from the cattle breed. When the animalshows weight gain, gonadal and behavioral physiology fallow this tendency and the reproductive status become good andsatisfactory. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the reproduction characteristics of male buffaloes and its testicularparameters with sexual behavior.Materials, Methods & Results: Seven males Murrah breed with 67.29 ± 11.4 months of age were maintained at confinement for artificial shading. The testicular parameter was performed in restraint trunk and the sexual behavior evaluationwas done with an estrus female. The sexual behavior was performed with an estrous female as a dummy. The testicularbiometry was measured at the beginning and at the end of the experimental design, with the follow parameters: length,width, depth/thickness, scrotal circumference and the total volume. The data were submitted to the analysis of variance,and the means was compared with the Student-Newman-Keuls test, with significance difference P < 0.05 between themedians. The differences in the parameters were scrotal circumference (23.36 cm vs 24.86 cm), testicular length (8.71 cmvs 9.77 cm), right testicular width (8.57 cm vs 9.53 cm) and testicular volume (1.627.40 cm3 vs 2.149,68 cm3), respectively.The sexual behavior showed an increase in the Flehmen reflex, mounts...

Biometria testicular e sua influência no comportamento sexual de búfalos (Bubalus buballis) / Testicular parameters and its influence in buffaloes (Bubalus buballis) sexual behaviour

Background: Brazil is one of the greatest bovine meat exporter in the world. However, the technologies applied at buffalos reproduction is not specific for this specie, adapted technics were established from the cattle breed. When the animalshows weight gain, gonadal and behavioral physiology fallow this tendency and the reproductive status become good andsatisfactory. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the reproduction characteristics of male buffaloes and its testicularparameters with sexual behavior.Materials, Methods & Results: Seven males Murrah breed with 67.29 ± 11.4 months of age were maintained at confinement for artificial shading. The testicular parameter was performed in restraint trunk and the sexual behavior evaluationwas done with an estrus female. The sexual behavior was performed with an estrous female as a dummy. The testicularbiometry was measured at the beginning and at the end of the experimental design, with the follow parameters: length,width, depth/thickness, scrotal circumference and the total volume. The data were submitted to the analysis of variance,and the means was compared with the Student-Newman-Keuls test, with significance difference P < 0.05 between themedians. The differences in the parameters were scrotal circumference (23.36 cm vs 24.86 cm), testicular length (8.71 cmvs 9.77 cm), right testicular width (8.57 cm vs 9.53 cm) and testicular volume (1.627.40 cm3 vs 2.149,68 cm3), respectively.The sexual behavior showed an increase in the Flehmen reflex, mounts...(AU)

Avaliação anatomopatológica de testículos de bovinos(Bos taurus) superprecoces submetidos a imunocastração / Anatomopathological evaluation of young bulls (Bos taurus) testicles submitted to immunocastration

Background: Immunocastration is a less invasive and painless procedure compared to surgical castration, which causesgreater stress to animals, especially when performed improperly. Immunocastration stimulates the production of antibodiesagainst Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), temporarily blocking the hormone production by the male gonads.Anatomopathological evaluation of animals submitted to immunocastration with the establishment of different degrees oftesticular degeneration helps to evaluate the efficacy of the different dose ranges used for this procedure. Because of thescarcity of information about this procedure in young bulls, the study aimed to compare the immunocastrated and noncastrated animals.Materials, Methods & Results: Eighteen Angus-Limousin bulls were used from weaning (7±1 months) to slaughtering(15±1 months) with the establishment of two groups composed of nine non-castrated (NC) and nine immunocastrated (IC)animals. In the IC group, three doses of GnRH synthesis inhibitor vaccine (Bopriva®) were applied on days 0 (weaning),87 and 223. At slaughter, scrotal circumference, weight (kg), width (cm), length (cm) and total size (width x length) of thetesticles were obtained, then were routinely processed for histopathological analysis. Four degrees of testicular degeneration was established: grade 0 (no changes), grade 1 (mild), grade 2 (moderate) and grade 3 (severe). Statistical analysiswas performed using Student’s t-test to compare the means of macroscopic variables. The scrotal circumference startedto decrease in the IC animals on day 132, with a certain growth from day 194. There was a significant difference betweenthe two groups for width (P = 0.001), length (P = 0.004), total size (P = 0.003) and scrotal circumference (P = 0.04).Testicles of the IC group tended to be lighter (P = 0.06)...

Avaliação anatomopatológica de testículos de bovinos(Bos taurus) superprecoces submetidos a imunocastração / Anatomopathological evaluation of young bulls (Bos taurus) testicles submitted to immunocastration

Background: Immunocastration is a less invasive and painless procedure compared to surgical castration, which causesgreater stress to animals, especially when performed improperly. Immunocastration stimulates the production of antibodiesagainst Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), temporarily blocking the hormone production by the male gonads.Anatomopathological evaluation of animals submitted to immunocastration with the establishment of different degrees oftesticular degeneration helps to evaluate the efficacy of the different dose ranges used for this procedure. Because of thescarcity of information about this procedure in young bulls, the study aimed to compare the immunocastrated and noncastrated animals.Materials, Methods & Results: Eighteen Angus-Limousin bulls were used from weaning (7±1 months) to slaughtering(15±1 months) with the establishment of two groups composed of nine non-castrated (NC) and nine immunocastrated (IC)animals. In the IC group, three doses of GnRH synthesis inhibitor vaccine (Bopriva®) were applied on days 0 (weaning),87 and 223. At slaughter, scrotal circumference, weight (kg), width (cm), length (cm) and total size (width x length) of thetesticles were obtained, then were routinely processed for histopathological analysis. Four degrees of testicular degeneration was established: grade 0 (no changes), grade 1 (mild), grade 2 (moderate) and grade 3 (severe). Statistical analysiswas performed using Students t-test to compare the means of macroscopic variables. The scrotal circumference startedto decrease in the IC animals on day 132, with a certain growth from day 194. There was a significant difference betweenthe two groups for width (P = 0.001), length (P = 0.004), total size (P = 0.003) and scrotal circumference (P = 0.04).Testicles of the IC group tended to be lighter (P = 0.06)...(AU)

Reproductive characteristics of Crioulo Lageano breed bulls (Bos taurus) at puberty

The aim of this research was to evaluate pubertal development characteristics of Crioulo Lageano breed bulls (n = 10) using morphometric measurements and semen analysis, to identify factors that can be used to estimate age at puberty in this locally adapted breed. Monthly measurement of body weight and fortnightly measurement of scrotal circumference, chest girth, testicular length, width, thickness, and volume were recorded for each of the 10 Crioulo Lageano breed bulls, which were between 10 and 20 months old. During this period, semen samples were collected every two weeks using electro ejaculation method and analyzed physically and morphologically. The ages of the appearance of first spermatozoa in the ejaculate (FSE), the first motile spermatozoa in the ejaculate (FSEM), seminal puberty (PUB) and total detachment between glans penis and prepuce (DPP) were ascertained. Crioulo Lageano bulls reached puberty at 14.1 ± 2.0 months old with lower weight and larger testicles than those of other bovine breeds. Similarly, the period from FSEM to PUB was shorter and the period from FSE to FSEM was longer than those reported for other breeds. The most important characteristics studied in order to estimate puberty age in Crioulo Lageano bulls were the measures of testicular length, width, and volume. These parameters can be used as criteria to select young bulls as sires.

Reproductive characteristics of Crioulo Lageano breed bulls (Bos taurus) at puberty

The aim of this research was to evaluate pubertal development characteristics of Crioulo Lageano breed bulls (n = 10) using morphometric measurements and semen analysis, to identify factors that can be used to estimate age at puberty in this locally adapted breed. Monthly measurement of body weight and fortnightly measurement of scrotal circumference, chest girth, testicular length, width, thickness, and volume were recorded for each of the 10 Crioulo Lageano breed bulls, which were between 10 and 20 months old. During this period, semen samples were collected every two weeks using electro ejaculation method and analyzed physically and morphologically. The ages of the appearance of first spermatozoa in the ejaculate (FSE), the first motile spermatozoa in the ejaculate (FSEM), seminal puberty (PUB) and total detachment between glans penis and prepuce (DPP) were ascertained. Crioulo Lageano bulls reached puberty at 14.1 ± 2.0 months old with lower weight and larger testicles than those of other bovine breeds. Similarly, the period from FSEM to PUB was shorter and the period from FSE to FSEM was longer than those reported for other breeds. The most important characteristics studied in order to estimate puberty age in Crioulo Lageano bulls were the measures of testicular length, width, and volume. These parameters can be used as criteria to select young bulls as sires.(AU)

Effects of different hay: concentrate ratios on body and testicular-epididymal biometry and metabolic profile of Santa Ines lambs / Efeito de diferentes proporções de volumoso: concentrado sobre a biometria testículo-epididimária e corporal e perfil metabólico de cordeiros Santa Inês

This study was carried out to verify the effects of different hay: concentrate ratios on body, testicular and epididymal development and metabolic profile of hair sheep lambs. Twenty-nine Santa Ines lambs were used. Treatments consisted of diets with different hay: concentrate ratios (100:0-Control, 80:20-T1, 60:40-T2, 40:60-T3 and 20:80-T4). The characteristics evaluated were: body weight (BW), body condition score (BCS), hearth girth (HG), body length (BL), height at withers (HW), height at rump (HR), rump width (RW), chest width (CW), scrotal perimeter (SP), testis length (TL) testis width (TW), testis thickness (TT), cauda epididymal length (CEL), cauda epididymal width (CAW), cauda epididymal thickness (CET), scrotal skin thickness (SST) and testicular volume (TV). Blood samples were collected to analyze glucose, urea, albumin, total cholesterol, total proteins, inorganic phosphate and magnesium concentrations. The body and testicular-epididymal measurements increased linearly with increases in the energy concentration in the diet. BW, BL, CW, RW, HG and BCS showed positive high correlations (r = 0.71 to 0.94) with all testis-epididymal measurements. The results of the metabolic profile study showed interactions between the addition of the concentrated feed and time of blood collection on total proteins, albumin, urea, cholesterol, phosphorus and magnesium concentrations. At the beginning of the trial, hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia were verified in T3 and T4. However, the indices returned to normal over time with the continuity in the diet supplied. Hypomagnesaemia was verified in all treatments. The plasmatic phosphorus concentration was sufficiently high at the end of all treatments, except control. In conclusion, the BL, HG, CW, RW as well as the BCS may be used to estimate the development of the testes and epididymis.[...](AU)

Este estudo objetivou verificar os efeitos de diferentes proporções de feno: concentrado sobre o desenvolvimento corporal, testicular e epididimário, bem como, sobre perfil metabólico de cordeiros deslanados. Foram utilizados vinte e nove cordeiros Santa Inês. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de dietas com diferentes proporções de feno: concentrado (100: 0- Controle; 80: 20- T1, 60: 40- T2, 40: 60- T3 e 20: 80- T4). As características avaliadas foram: peso corporal (PC), escore de condição corporal (ECC), perímetro torácico (PT), comprimento do corpo (CC), altura na cernelha (AC), altura na garupa (AG), largura da garupa (LG), largura do peito (LP), perímetro escrotal (PS), comprimento do testículo (CT) largura dos testículos (LT), espessura de testículo (ET), comprimento da cauda do epidídimo (CCE), a largura da cauda do epidídimo (LCE), espessura da cauda do epidídimo (ECE), espessura da pele escrotal (EPE) e volume testicular (VT). Amostras de sangue foram colhidas para análise de glicose, ureia, albumina, colesterol total, proteínas totais, fosfato e magnésio. A biometria corporal, testicular e epididimárias aumentaram linearmente com o aumento da proporção de concentrado na dieta. PC, CC, LP, AC, PT e ECC mostraram correlação alta e positiva (r = 0,71-0,94), com todas as medidas testículo-epidídimárias. Os resultados do estudo mostraram interação entre o perfil metabólico, os tratamentos e o momento da coleta para as concentrações de proteínas totais, albumina, ureia, colesterol, fósforo e magnésio concentrado. No início do experimento foram verificadas hipoproteinemia e hipoalbuminemia em T3 e T4. No entanto, os índices voltaram ao normal com a continuidade do fornecimento da dieta. Hipomagnesemia foi verificada em todos os tratamentos. A concentração plasmática de fósforo foi significativamente alta no fim de todos os tratamentos, com exceção de controle.[...](AU)

Aspectos biométricos e histológicos de testículos de garanhões do Grupamento Genético Baixadeiro / Biometric and histological aspects of stallions testicles Grouping Genetic Baixadeiro

This study aimed to evaluate the biometric and histological aspects of the testicles of horses Baixadeiro.Four stallions were used, with a mean age of 3,88 ± 1,24. The right and left testicles were measured for length,width, height and total scrotal width. The testicular volume was also determined and histological fragmentswere removed parenchyma of testis stained with H-E. There was no statistical difference between the linearmeasurements of the right testis and left (P > 0,05). The weight of the testes showed differences (P < 0,05) dueto the characteristics of the evaluated animals (cryptorchidism, testicular asymmetry). Histologically, bothshowed edema and hemorrhage as testicular degeneration. Thus, the animals showed values of scrotalcircumference lower than expected for the species, and testicular diseases, not being considered fit toreproduction.(AU)

Aspectos biométricos e histológicos de testículos de garanhões do Grupamento Genético Baixadeiro / Biometric and histological aspects of stallions testicles Grouping Genetic Baixadeiro

This study aimed to evaluate the biometric and histological aspects of the testicles of horses Baixadeiro.Four stallions were used, with a mean age of 3,88 ± 1,24. The right and left testicles were measured for length,width, height and total scrotal width. The testicular volume was also determined and histological fragmentswere removed parenchyma of testis stained with H-E. There was no statistical difference between the linearmeasurements of the right testis and left (P > 0,05). The weight of the testes showed differences (P < 0,05) dueto the characteristics of the evaluated animals (cryptorchidism, testicular asymmetry). Histologically, bothshowed edema and hemorrhage as testicular degeneration. Thus, the animals showed values of scrotalcircumference lower than expected for the species, and testicular diseases, not being considered fit toreproduction.

Principal component analysis for evaluating a ranking method used in the performance testing in sheep of Morada Nova breed / Análise de componentes principais para avaliação de um método de classificação utilizado nos testes de desempenho em ovinos da raça Morada Nova

A multivariate approach was adopted to evaluate the relationship among traits measured in the performance testing of Morada Nova sheep, verify the efficiency of a ranking method used in these tests and identify the most significant traits for use in future analyses. Data from 150 young rams participating in five versions of the performance tests for the Morada Nova breed were used. Twenty traits were measured in each animal: initial weight (IW), final weight (FW), average daily weight gain (ADG), loin eye area (LEA), scrotal circumference (SC), fat thickness (FT), conformation (C), precocity (Pc), muscularity (M), breed features (BF), legs (L), withers height (WH), chest width (CW), rump height (RH), rump width (RW), rump length (RL), body length (BL), body depth (BD), heart girth (HG) and body condition scoring (BCS). The Pearsons correlation coefficients ranged from 0.10 to 0.93, with the highest correlations were between body weight variables and morphometric measurements. The three first principal components explained 72.28% of the total variability among all traits. The variables related to animal size defined the first principal component, whereas those related to visual appraisal and suitability for meat production defined the second and third principal components, respectively. The combination of traits from the principal component analysis showed that the ranking met...(AU)

Objetivou-se neste trabalho adotar uma abordagem multivariada para avaliar a relação entre as características medidas nos testes de desempenho de ovinos Morada Nova para verificar a eficácia do método de classificação utilizado nestes testes, e identificar as características mais importantes para serem usadas em análises futuras. Foram utilizados dados de 150 carneiros jovens participantes de cinco edições do teste de desempenho da raça Morada Nova. Vinte características foram mensuradas em cada animal: peso inicial (PI), peso final (PF), ganho de peso médio diário (GPMD), área de olho de lombo (AOL), perímetro escrotal (PE), espessura de gordura (EG), conformação (C), precocidade (Pc), musculosidade (M), tipo racial (TP), aprumos (A), altura de cernelha (AC), largura de peito (LP), altura da garupa (AG), largura da garupa (LG), comprimento da garupa (CG), comprimento corporal (CC), profundidade (P), perímetro torácico (PT) e escore de condição corporal (ECC). Os Coeficientes de correlação de Pearson variaram de 0,10 a 0,93, sendo que as maiores correlações foram entre as variáveis de peso corporal e medidas morfométricas. Os três primeiros componentes principais explicaram 72,28% da variabilidade total entre todas as variáveis. As variáveis relacionadas ao porte do animal obtiveram maiores ponderadores no primeiro componente principal, enquanto as características relacionada...(AU)

Modelos não-lineares para descrever as curvas de crescimento da biometria testicular e das características morfométricas de garanhões Mangalarga Marchador

O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever a curva de crescimento testicular e da morfometria corporal em garanhões da raça Mangalarga Marchador, ajustando modelos não lineares às mensurações de largura escrotal total (TSW), volume testicular (TV), peso corporal e altura de cernelha (WH). Um estudo transversal foi realizado com 120 garanhões, com idade entre 638 a 8006 dias. Os parâmetros dos modelos não-lineares (Brody, Gompertz, Hill, Logístico I e II, Meloun I e II, Michaelis-Menten, Mitscherlich e von-Bertalanffy) foram estimados pelo processo iterativo de Gauss-Newton no programa SAS (2002). A qualidade do ajuste foi avaliada pelos critérios de informação de Akaike corrigido (AICc) e Bayesiano (BIC), R 2 ajustado, soma de quadrados dos erros (ESS), desvio absoluto médio (MAD) e erro médio de previsão (APE). Com base na qualidade dos critérios de ajuste, o modelo Logístico I se encaixou melhor para a curva de crescimento de TSW, peso corporal e WH; enquanto o Logístico II mostrou-se o melhor modelo para a curva de crescimento de TV. Apesar da correlação alta e positiva entre TSW e TV (r = 0,85), a avaliação do desenvolvimento testicular por apenas a TSW não descreve totalmente as etapas de desenvolvimento dos testículos, uma vez que não considera o crescimento de outras medidas biométricas, especialmente a altura testicular que mantém o crescimento por um período mais longo. Portanto, para a determinação mais precisa da fase de desenvolvimento testicular em que o garanhão se encontra por meio de avaliação biométrica, a melhor opção é a avaliação de todas as mensurações testiculares. Além disso, a correlação moderada e positiva entre WH com TSW e TV (r = 0,51 para ambos) indica que as características biométricas testiculares e morfométricas estão associadas e, portanto, a biometria testicular pode ser incluída nos programas de seleção genética de garanhões da raça Mangalarga Marchador

This study aimed to describe the testicular growth curve of testicular biometrics and body morphometry in Mangalarga Marchador stallions. Nonlinear models were fitted to total scrotal width (TSW), testicular volume (TV), body weight (BW) and withers height (WH). A crosssectional study was conducted with 120 stallions, aging from 638 to 8006 days. The parameters of nonlinear models (Brody, Gompertz, Hill, Logistic I and II, Meloun I and II, MichaelisMenten, Mitscherlich and von-Bertalanffy) were estimated by the Gauss-Newton iterative process. The goodness of fit was evaluated by the corrected Akaikes (AICc) and Bayesian (BIC) information criteria, Adjusted R2 , error sum of square (ESS), mean absolute deviation (MAD) and average prediction error (APE). Based on the goodness of fit, the Logistic I model fitted better to the growth curve of TSW, BW and WH; while Logistic II fitted better for the TV growth curve. Despite the high and positive correlation between TSW and TV (r = 0.85), the evaluation of testicular development by only TSW does not fully describe the stages of development of the testes, since TSW does not consider the growth of other biometric measures, especially the testicular height that maintains growth for a longer period. Therefore, to determine the testicular development phase, in which the stallion is found, by biometric evaluation, the best option is to evaluate all testicular measurements and thus obtain the TV as well. In addition, the moderate and positive correlations between WH with TSW and TV (r = 0.51 for both) indicate that biometric and morphometric characteristics are associated, so testicular biometry can be included in the genetic selection programs of Mangalarga Marchador stallions.

PARÂMETROS REPRODUTIVOS DE CORDEIROS IMUNOCASTRADOS COM VACINA ANTI-GnRH

O objetivo com esse estudo foi avaliar o efeito da vacina anti-GnRH nos parâmetros reprodutivos de cordeiros. Trinta cordeiros mestiços da raça Santa Inês, inteiros, com idade média de 4,19±0,41 meses, foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em três tratamentos (T), com 10 repetições e um cordeiro por unidade experimental: T1 grupo controle, administração de 1mL de solução fisiológica via subcutânea (SC); T2 e T3 administração de 1 e 0,5mL da vacina anti-GnRH via SC, respectivamente. Os animais foram vacinados aos quatro meses de idade e receberam segunda dose 30 dias após a primeira vacinação. Para imunização, foi utilizada a vacina comercial Bopriva®, na qual cada mL de vacina fornece 400g do conjugado de GnRH e proteína carreadora. Foram mensurados no dia da primeira vacinação (D0), na segunda (D30) e 30 dias após a segunda vacinação (D60), parâmetros de biometria testicular; os aspectos físicos e morfológicos seminais foram avaliados nos D30 e D60, e a concentração plasmática de testosterona no D60. Os animais foram abatidos aos 90 dias (D90) após receberem a primeira dose da vacina. Os testículos foram coletados, pesados e retirou-se fragmentos para processamento histológico e avaliação dos parâmetros de morfometria testicular. Os dados foram submetidos à avaliação de normalidade pelo teste de Shapiro Willk. Para variáveis com distribuição normal, foi aplicado ANOVA e o Teste de Tukey, e para variáveis não paramétricas, foi realizado o Teste Kruskal-Wallis, considerando 5% de significância para todas as avaliações. No D60 obteve-se redução do comprimento, largura e espessura testicular, e consequentemente da circunferência escrotal dos animais imunocastrados, independente da dose da vacina utilizada (P<0,05). Além disso, houve redução nos parâmetros físicos seminais em ambas as dosagens (P<0,05), com quadro de azoospermia em 80 e 70% dos animais do grupo que recebeu 1mL e 0,5mL da vacina, respectivamente. No D60, os animais imunocastrados também apresentaram aumento dos defeitos espermáticos (P<0,05). Houve redução na concentração plasmática de testosterona nos animais imunocastrados no D60 (P<0,05). Para os parâmetros de morfometria testicular, houve redução no peso testicular, índice gonadossomático, diâmetro do túbulo seminífero, altura do epitélio germinativo e índice Leydigossomático, enquanto que para comprimento total dos túbulos e comprimento total por grama de testículo, houve aumento nos grupos imunocastrados (D90) (P<0,05). Já para os parâmetros da espermatogênese quantificados a partir da morfometria testicular: população celular do epitélio seminífero, rendimento intrínseco da espermatogênese, índices de células de Sertoli, estimativa da produção espermática e de células de Sertoli, obteve-se redução em todos os parâmetros nos animais imunizados (P<0,05). A imunocastração de cordeiros utilizando a vacina Bopriva® nas doses de 1,0 e 0,5mL foi eficiente em induzir azoospermia em até 80% dos animais, contudo, são necessárias a aplicação de duas doses da vacina intervaladas por 30 dias. Sendo indicada o uso da menor dose (0,5mL) para redução em 50% do custo com a vacina.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the anti-GnRH vaccine on lamb reproductive parameters. Thirty whole Santa Inês crossbred lambs, with an average age of 4.19±0.41 months, were randomly distributed in three treatments (T), with 10 repetitions and one lamb per experimental unit: T1 control group, administration of 1mL saline solution via subcutaneous (SC); T2 and T3 administration of 1 and 0.5mL of the anti-GnRH vaccine via SC, respectively. The animals were vaccinated at four months of age and received a second dose 30 days after the first vaccination. For immunization, the commercial vaccine BoprivaTM was used, in which each mL of vaccine provides 400 g of the GnRH conjugate and carrier protein. Testicular biometric parameters were measured on the day of the first vaccination (D0), on the second (D30) and 30 days after the second vaccination (D60); the seminal physical and morphological aspects were evaluated at D30 and D60, and the plasma testosterone concentration at D60. The animals were slaughtered at 90 days (D90) after receiving the first dose of the vaccine. The testicles were collected, weighed and fragments were removed for histological processing and evaluation of testicular morphometry parameters. The data were submitted to normality assessment by the Shapiro Willk test. For variables with normal distribution, ANOVA and the Tukey test were applied, and for non-parametric variables, the Kruskal-Wallis test was performed, considering 5% significance for all evaluations. At D60, there was a reduction in testicular length, width and thickness, and consequently in the scrotal circumference of immunocastrated animals, regardless of the dose of the vaccine used (P<0.05). In addition, there was a reduction in seminal physical parameters at both dosages (P<0.05), with azoospermia in 80 and 70% of the animals in the group that received 1mL and 0.5mL of the vaccine, respectively. At D60, immunocastrated animals also showed an increase in sperm defects (P<0.05). There was a reduction in plasma testosterone concentration in animals immunocastrated at D60 (P<0.05). For the parameters of testicular morphometry, there was a reduction in testicular weight, gonadosomatic index, diameter of the seminiferous tubule, height of the germinal epithelium and leydigosomatic index, while for the total length of the tubules and total length per gram of testis, there was an increase in the immunocastrated groups (D90) (P<0.05). As for the spermatogenesis parameters quantified from testicular morphometry: cell population of seminiferous epithelium, intrinsic spermatogenesis yield, Sertoli cell indices, estimate of sperm production and Sertoli cells, reduction in all parameters in animals immunized (P<0.05). The immunocastration of lambs using the BoprivaTM vaccine at doses of 1.0 and 0.5mL was efficient in inducing azoospermia in up to 80% of the animals, however, it is necessary to apply two doses of the vaccine at intervals for 30 days. The use of the lowest dose (0.5mL) is indicated to reduce the vaccine cost by 50%.

VARIAÇÃO SAZONAL DO EXAME ANDROLOGICO DE CARNEIROS DO GRUPO GENÉTICO PANTANEIRO

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o perfil reprodutivo de carneiros do grupo genético pantaneiro durante as diferentes estações do ano. O experimento foi realizado no Centro Tecnológico de Ovinocultura da Fundação Manoel de Barros, Fazenda Escola Três Barras, localizada no município de Campo Grande, região central do estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Para o estudo foram utilizados 6 quinze carneiros do grupo genético pantaneiro, hígidos, com idade média de 36 meses. Para a verificação da possível variação das características andrológicas entre as estações do ano, os reprodutores foram submetidos ao exame andrológico. O intervalo entre as coletas de dados foi de noventa dias, com início em setembro de 2017 e término em setembro de 2018. As coletas de dados foram realizadas na última quinzena de cada estação do ano. Adicionalmente, foram mensurados o peso, a espessura de pele e o diâmetro de rafe do escroto, a temperatura retal e a temperatura da superfície do escroto e o formato e o volume dos testículos. Todos os carneiros pantaneiros foram considerados aptos à reprodução, permitindo a sua utilização em monta natural durante todo o ano. O peso corporal, o perímetro escrotal e o volume testicular não apresentaram diferença (P>0,05) entre as estações da primavera e verão, entretanto essas variáveis apresentaram diferença (P<0,05) nas estações de outono e inverno. Para as medidas testiculares só não foi observada variação (P>0,05) na largura testicular. Com relação ao volume testicular foi observado variação (P<0,05) na estação do verão quando comparado a estação de inverno. Foi verificado correlação positiva entre o peso corporal e as medidas testiculares. Para as características seminais foi encontrado variação (P<0,05) nas estações de outono e inverno. As médias para turbilhonamento, motilidade progressiva e vigor espermático variaram (P<0,05) no inverno quando comparados com as outras estações do ano. Com relação a morfologia espermática, não foi observado diferença (P>0,05) para os defeitos espermáticos maiores entre as quatro estações do ano, mas para os defeitos menores e totais foi verificado variação (P<0,05). A concentração espermática variou (P<0,05) nas estações de outono e inverno. Quanto ao formato testicular, durante as estações de primavera e verão foi verificado maior frequência de testículos com formato longo/oval. Nas estações de outono e inverno foi observado maior frequência de testículos com formato oval/esférico. A temperatura retal apresentou diferença (P<0,05) na estação do verão, quando comparado as estações de outono e inverno. Além disso, foi observado diferença (P<0,05) na temperatura superficial do escroto entre as quatro estações do ano. A espessura de pele do escroto variou (P<0,05) nas estações de primavera e do verão. Já, nas estações de outono e inverno foi verificado variação (P<0,05) da espessura de pele do escroto e do diâmetro da rafe do escroto. Houve influência das estações do ano sobre o perfil reprodutivo dos carneiros do grupo genético pantaneiro, porém não foi suficiente para o comprometimento do potencial reprodutivo dos animais, demonstrando sua adaptação a condições climáticas.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the reproductive profile of sheep of the pantaneiro genetic group during the different seasons of the year. The experiment was carried out at the Technological Center of Ovinoculture of the Manoel de Barros Foundation, Fazenda Escola Três Barras, located in the municipality of Campo Grande, central region of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Fifteen sheep of the pantaneiro genetic group, healthy, with a mean age of 36 months, were used for the study. In order to verify the possible variation of andrological characteristics between the seasons, the breeding animals were submitted to the andrological examination. The interval between the data collections was of ninety days, beginning in september 2017 and ending in september 2018. The data collections were carried out in the last fortnight of each season of the year. In addition, the scrotal weight, skin thickness, and rafe diameter were measured, the rectal temperature and the surface temperature of the scrotum, and the size and volume of the testicles. All Pantanal sheep were considered suitable for breeding, allowing them to be used in natural mounds throughout the year. Body weight, scrotal perimeter and testicular volume did not differ (P>0.05) between spring and summer seasons. However, these variables presented a difference (P<0.05) in the autumn and winter seasons. For the testicular measurements, there was no variation (P>0.05) in the testicular width. Regarding the testicular volume, variation (P<0.05) was observed in the summer season when compared to the winter season. Positive correlation was verified between body weight and testicular measurements. For the seminal characteristics variation (P<0.05) was found in the autumn and winter seasons. The averages for swirling, progressive motility and spermatic vigor varied (P<0.05) in the winter when compared with the other seasons of the year. Regarding sperm morphology, no difference (P> 0.05) was observed for the largest sperm defects between the four seasons of the year, but for minor and total defects, variation (P <0.05) was observed. Sperm concentration varied (P<0.05) in the autumn and winter seasons. As for the testicular format, during the spring and summer seasons, a higher frequency of testicles with a long/oval shape was observed. In the autumn and winter seasons, a higher frequency of oval / spherical testes was observed. The rectal temperature presented a difference (P<0.05) in the summer season, when compared to the autumn and winter seasons. In addition, a difference (P<0.05) was observed in the superficial temperature of the scrotum between the four seasons of the year. The skin thickness of the scrotum varied (P<0.05) in the spring and summer seasons. On the other hand, in the autumn and winter seasons, variation (P<0.05) in the scrotal skin thickness and the diameter of the scrotum rafe was verified. There was influence of the seasons on the reproductive profile of the sheep of the pantaneiro genetic group, but it was not enough to compromise the reproductive potential of the animals, demonstrating their adaptation to climatic conditions.

Efeito da energia na dieta sobre o desempenho e evolução das características reprodutivas de ovinos jovens Morada Nova

O desenvolvimento corporal de ovinos depende de seu potencial genético e de um suporte alimentar adequado. Pode-se supor que o oferecimento de dietas com densidade energética acima do nível mínimo para cordeiros em crescimento influencie positivamente no desenvolvimento corporal e reprodutivo de machos jovens. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho foi estudar o efeito do uso de alta energia na dieta de cordeiros da raça Morada Nova sobre o desenvolvimento corpóreo e a funcionalidade testicular, considerando características histomorfométricas e a qualidade seminal. Quarenta e dois machos desmamados (19,2 semanas; 20,7±3,5 kg) foram divididos em dois grupos experimentais que receberam 2,05 Mcal (G7, n=21) ou 2,37 Mcal (G24, n=21) de energia metabolizável/dia, o que equivale respectivamente a 7% e 24% de energia acima do mínimo para cordeiros em crescimento. Os animais foram mantidos em confinamento durante 23 semanas (S0 a S23). Peso e escore corporal diferiram significativamente a partir da S1 (p<0,05). De S5 em diante, perímetro torácico, comprimento corporal, altura de cernelha, altura, largura e comprimento de garupa foram maiores para G24 (p<0,05). A circunferência escrotal, o comprimento, largura testicular e volume testiculares foram maiores em G24 a partir da S3 (p<0,05). Apesar dos níveis de testosterona sérica não terem sido afetados (p>0,05) pelos tratamentos, o maior aporte energético incrementou o diâmetro dos túbulos seminíferos e do lúmen tubular, e promoveu maior desenvolvimento do epitélio epididimário (p<0,05). Isto influenciou positivamente a qualidade seminal, reduzindo os defeitos espermáticos menores (21,87 vs. 17,13%; p=0,02) e os defeitos totais (26,34 vs. 21,78%; p=0,01). Assim, é possível empregar maiores níveis de energia na dieta e fazer com que machos Morada Nova jovens expressem maior eficiência produtiva, associada a atributos reprodutivos de alto interesse. Isso pode contribuir para a valorização do genótipo e favorecer o uso deste recurso genético em sistemas de produção ovina.

The body development of sheep depends on their genetic potential and adequate dietary support. It can be assumed that the provision of diets with energy density above the minimum level for growing lambs positively influences the body and reproductive development of young males. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of high energy in the diets offered to Morada Nova lambs considering their corporal development, testicular function, beside the histomorphometric features and seminal quality. Forty-two weaned male lambs (19.2 weeks; 20.7±3.5 kg) were divided into two experimental groups that received 2.05 Mcal (G7, n = 21) or 2.37 Mcal (G24, n = 21) of metabolizable energy/day, equivalent to 7% and 24% higher of the minimum required for growing lambs. The animals were maintained in confinement during 23 weeks (W0 to W23). Body weight and body condition score differed significantly from W1 (p<0.05). From W5 onwards, thoracic perimeter, corporal length, withers height, height, width and rump length were higher for G24 (p<0.05). Scrotal circumference, length, width and testicular volume were higher to G24 from W3 (p<0.05). Although serum testosterone levels were not affected (p>0.05) by the treatments, the highest energy input increased seminiferous tubule and tubular lumen diameters, and promoted greater development of epididymal epithelium (p<0.05). This positively influenced the seminal quality, reducing minor sperm defects (21.87 vs. 17.13%; p=0.02) and total defects (26.34 vs. 21.78%; p=0.01). Thus, it is possible to use higher dietetic energy levels in order to allow Morada Nova rams to express higher productive efficiency associated with reproductive attributes of high interest. As result, this may contribute to valorize this genotype and favor its the use of this genetic resource in sheep production systems.

BIOMETRIA TESTICULAR E HIERARQUIA DE DOMINÂNCIA DO QUEIXADA (Mammalia, Tayassuidae)

O queixada (Tayassu pecari) é um mamífero neotropical classificado como vulnerável devido ao desflorestamento e caça excessiva. Como de forma geral a espécie adapta-se e reproduz com facilidade em cativeiro, foi proposta a sua produção em cativeiro para posterior soltura onde tenha sido extinta. Em algumas criações, contudo, são obtidos índices reprodutivos baixos que podem estar associados com a baixa fertilidade dos machos. Como existe correlação entre o tamanho dos testículos com a produção espermática e hormonal, características da biometria testicular podem afetar o desempenho reprodutivo dos machos de queixadas. Por estes motivos, objetivou-se nesse estudo obter dados sobre a biometria testicular e epididimária desses animais, como também descrever a estrutura social dos machos de queixadas mantidos em cativeiro e verificar se existe correlação entre dados da biometria dos testículos e dos epidídimos dos indivíduos com os postos ocupados pelos machos na hierarquia de dominância (ranking). Foram coletados dados de 16 queixadas machos adultos, com idades entre dois e 18 anos, nascidos e criados em cativeiro e mantidos em três grupos (G1: seis machos e seis fêmeas; G2: cinco machos e seis fêmeas e G3: cinco machos e uma fêmea). Por meio de observações de interações agonísticas foram calculados os índices de linearidade (h) da hierarquia de dominância e determinado o ranking dos indivíduos. Ao término das observações, os machos foram capturados para coleta de dados biométricos. Os queixadas apresentaram testículos localizados em posição perineal inclinados crânio-ventralmente com formato ovalado, achatados látero-lateralmente e de consistência tensoelástica. Apesar de em geral apresentarem simetria testicular, foram verificadas leve assimetria entre os testículos direito e esquerdo em alguns indivíduos. A hierarquia de dominância linear descreveu a estrutura social dos três grupos (h>0,9). Apenas para machos do G1, contudo, a probabilidade da linearidade na hierarquia foi maior do que o acaso (P=0,02). Para esse grupo, verificou-se correlação entre o ranking com a massa corporal dos machos com o comprimento e o volume dos testículos, e também com o comprimento dos epidídimos e tendência de correlação com a largura escrotal total. Como de forma geral as dimensões dos testículos têm correlação direta com a produção espermática e também de testosterona, essa característica favorece o desempenho reprodutivo dos machos dominantes de grupos de queixadas. Portanto, as características da biometria testicular e epididimária dos machos de queixadas devem ser levadas em consideração para seleção de indivíduos mais aptos a reproduzir em cativeiro favorecendo a conservação dessa espécie vulnerável.

The white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) is a vulnerable Neotropical mammal that is threaten by deforestation and overhunting. As the species generally adapts and reproduces easily in captivity, it has been proposed to produce it in captivity for later release where it has been extinguished. In some creations, however, low reproductive rates are obtained which may be associated with poor male fertility. As there is a correlation between the size of the testicles and sperm and hormonal production, characteristics of the testicular biometry can affect the reproductive performance of the jaw males. For these reasons, the objective of this study was to obtain data on the testicular and epididymal biometry of these animals, as well as to describe the social structure of the female jaws kept in captivity and to verify if there is a correlation between biometry data of the testes and the epididymis of individuals with the positions occupied by males in the hierarchy of dominance (ranking). Data were collected from 16 adult male jaws, aged between two and 18 years old, born and bred in captivity and kept in three groups (G1: six males and six females; G2: five males and six females and G3: five males and one female). By means of observations of agonistic interactions we calculated the linearity indexes (h ') of the dominance hierarchy and determined the ranking of individuals. At the end of the observations, the males were captured for biometric data collection. The jaws presented testicles located in a perineal position, inclined cranio-ventrally with oval shape, flattened laterally and with a tensoelastic consistency. Although they generally presented testicular symmetry, mild asymmetry between the right and left testicles was observed in some individuals. The linear dominance hierarchy described the social structure of the three groups (h '> 0.9). Only for G1 males, however, the probability of linearity in the hierarchy was greater than chance (P = 0.02). For this group, there was a correlation between the ranking of the body mass of the males with the length and volume of the testicles, and also with the length of the epididymis and tendency of correlation with the total scrotal width. As in general the dimensions of the testicles are directly correlated with sperm production and also testosterone, this characteristic favors the reproductive performance of dominant males of groups of jaws. Therefore, the characteristics of testicular and epididymal biometry of jaw males should be taken into account for the selection of individuals more likely to reproduce in captivity favoring the conservation of this vulnerable species.

DESENVOLVIMENTO TESTICULAR, PONDERAL E USO DE MODELOS NÃO-LINEARES PARA DESCREVER A CURVA DE CRESCIMENTO DO PERÍMETRO ESCROTAL EM BOVINOS

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o crescimento testicular e biometria testicular in vivo e postmorten em bovinos de raça Nelore e mestiços Nelore x Aberdeen Angus, alimentados com diferentes dietas (Silagem de cana de açúcar/bagaço de cana, cana de açúcar in natura e silagem de milho) criados em confinamento imediatamente após a desmama (oito meses de idade) até o término da fase de terminação (15 meses). Foram utilizados 112 tourinhos da raça Nelore e mestiços Nelore x Aberdeen Angus (nos três experimentos) com idade média entre oito a nove meses e peso corporal de 230 a 270 kg. Este estudo foi conduzido em três fases. Nos experimentos 1 e 2, o manejo dos animais foi conduzido em seis baias coletivas, e no experimento 3 o manejo dos animais foi conduzido em baias individuais. Nas duas primeiras fases experimentais o manejo foi em baias equipadas com sistema de porteiras eletrônicas (tipo Calan Gate) que permitiam acesso ao cocho individualmente. Em todas as baias a água foi fornecida ad libitum. Foram r

The objective of this study was to evaluate testicular growth and testicular biometry in vivo and postmortem in Nellore and Nellore x Aberdeen Angus crossbred bovine fed with different diets (Sugarcane silage / sugarcane bagasse, sugar cane in natura and corn silage) created in feedlot immediately after weaning (eight months old) until the end of the finishing period (15 months). A total of 112 Nellore and Nellore x Aberdeen Angus crossbreds bulls were used (in the three experiments) with mean ages between eight and nine months and with body weights between 230 to 270 kg. This study was conducted in three phases. In experiments 1 and 2, the management of the animals was conducted in six collective pens, and in experiment 3 the management of the animals was conducted in individual pens. In the first two experimental phases, the management was in pens equipped with electronic gate system (Calan Gate type) that allowed access to the trough individually. The water was supplied ad libitum in all the pens. Measurements of testicular biometrics, scrotal circumference (SC), left testicular length (LTL) and right (RTL), left testicle width (LTW) and right width (RTW) of all the animals were performed at 28-day intervals during the experimental period and after slaughter. After obtaining the gonads, two testicular fragments were collected per animal and stored in Bouin fixative solution for 18 hours; the fragments were transferred and conditioned in 70% alcohol. Subsequently, the testicular fragments were submitted to the dehydration process in alcoholic solutions in increasing and successive concentrations each 60 minutes. After dehydration, the fragments were soaked in xylol and embedded in paraffin. Then, with a microtome, the sections were cut with 4 m thickness and mounted on histological slides and stained with hematoxylin / eosin and coverslips assembled with Entellan. In Experiment I, during the growth period of bulls fed with sugarcane silage, there were differences in the body weight mean values of the animals with high performance treatment in the growth period in relation to the values obtained in the treatment with low performance in the same period (p <0.05), and in the finishing period using sugar cane bagasse, the body weight and postmortem testicular biometrics mean values of the animals did not show any difference between the treatments (p> 0.05). Analyzing the tubular diameter and height of the seminiferous epithelium in the growth period there was no difference between the mean values of the animals in the different treatments (p> 0.05). However, when comparing the growth and finishing period, there was a difference between the mean values of the seminiferous tubule diameters (p <0.05), being higher in the finishing period. The seminiferous epithelium height mean values of the animals in the treatment with low performance in the growth period and high performance in the finishing period (BA) were higher than the values presented by the bulls in the growth period (p <0.05 ). There was a difference in the body weight of the high performance treatment in the growth period in relation to the other treatments (p <0.05). There was no difference in mean values for scrotal circumference at the age of 10 - 11 months old for Nellore bulls in high performance treatment during the growth period and high performance in the finishing period (AA) and average performance in the growing period and high performance in the finishing period (MA). The BA treatment differed from the AA treatment at the same age (p <0.05). There was a difference in the finishing period at 16 - 17 months of age in relation to the other treatments (p <0.05). In experiment II, there was no difference between body weight and postmortem testicular biometries (p> 0.05). Regarding the tubule diameter and height of the seminiferous epithelium, there was no difference between the means obtained in the different treatments (p> 0.05). There was a difference in body weight in treatment B compared to treatment C for 11-12 and over 13 months of animals age (p <0.05). There was a difference in the scrotal circumference of Nellore bulls above 13 months of age in relation to the 9 - 10 and 11 - 12 months of conventional diet treatment, 100% supply of Ca, P and micromineral requirements (A), conventional diet to supply 100% of the requirements of microminerals, and without the addition of limestone and dicalcium phosphate (C) and conventional diet without the addition of limestone, dicalcium phosphate and premix micromineral (D). In experiment III, the animals of the treatment with 14% CP presented higher body weight means values compared to those with 10% of CP and the means obtained from the animals submitted to the maintenance diet with 12% of CP did not differ from the animals submitted to diets with 10 and 14% CP (p> 0.05). The postmortem testicular biometry mean values in the animals treated with 10, 12 and 14% CP were higher than the values obtained for the maintenance treatment animals with 12% CP (p <0.05). There was a significant interaction between ages with body weight. The body weight of the 10, 12 and 14% crude protein treatments for Nellore and Nellore x Aberdeen Angus bulls was higher when compared to the maintenance treatment. The body weight mean values of 12 and 14% crude protein treatments for Nellore bulls did not differ among them (p> 0.05), but the mean values obtained for the treatments with maintenance diet differed from the other means obtained in the other evaluated treatments (p <0.05). The interaction between age and race for body weight differed for Nellore and Nellore x Aberdeen Angus bulls at 14 and 16 months of age, when compared to the other age treatments (p <0.05). The scrotal circumference of 10, 12, 14% and maintenance treatments did not differ when evaluated by age treatment (p> 0.05). The age range of 14 - 16 months treatments with 12, 14% and maintenance diets differed when compared to the other age treatment (p <0.05). However, there was no difference in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) obtained for the animals in the different diets (p> 0.05). Analyzing the effect of genetic groups, the values obtained for body weight, left testicle length, left testicle width, left testicle volume, right testicle length, right testicle width and testicular volume were higher for Nellore x Aberdeen Angus crossbred bulls compared to Nellore bulls (p <0.05). Other postmortem characteristics such as, right testicular volume, testicular weight with and without epididymis were not shown to be different among genetic groups (p> 0.05). There was a difference in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and height of seminiferous epithelium in animals fed with 14% CP (p <0.05). However, there was no difference (p> 0.05) in the mean values obtained in 10, 14% CP and the maintenance (12% CP) treatments. There was an interaction of genetic groups with body weight (p <0.05). The body weight mean values of the animals with 10 and 12% CP treatments were higher in Nellore x Aberdeen Angus crossbred animals than those obtained for Nellore bulls (p <0.05). When compared the crude protein concentration in relation to the body weight of the Nellore and Nellore crossbreds bulls, the mean values obtained were higher for the animals treated with 10, 12 and 14 % CP when compared to the treatment animals with maintenance diet 12% CP (p <0.05). The gonadosomatic index for the maintenance treatment 12% CP was higher for Nellore x Aberdeen Angus crossbred bulls than the Nellore bulls (p <0.05). In the second chapter: The objective of this study was to compare eight nonlinear models to describe the growth curve of the scrotal circumference (SC) as a function of age in Nellore bulls in extensive management. In the analysis, 32,635 scrotal circumference measurements were performed from 12,974 Nellore bulls with a mean age of 18 months up to 170 months of age. The nonlinear models Logistic, Brody, Gompertz, Richards, Von Bertalanffy, Tanaka, Negative Exponential and Janoschek and their parameters obtained by the Gauss-Newton interactive method were used to estimate the parameters for each nonlinear model, and were evaluated using Proc NLIN from the Statistical Analysis System. The Brody model was chosen to analyze the effects of the origin place and the birth year of the animals on the parameters A and k. The Richards and Janoschek models did not converge. The A parameter (asymptote) was similar for Logistic (39.87), Brody (39.95), Gompertz (39.91), Von Bertalanffy (39.92) and Negative Exponential (39.65) models. The logistic model estimated the highest value for B parameter (1,25), followed by the Gompertz (1,00), Brody (0,80), Von Bertalanffy (0,31) and Tanaka (0,20) models. The k parameter (maturity rate) presented the highest estimate for the logistic model (0.00264), followed by the Gompertz (0.00245), Von Bertalanffy (0.00238) and Brody (0.00226) models. The Tanaka model estimated the inflection point at 596 days of age with 31.03 cm of scrotal circumference. The Tanaka model had the best fit estimates among the evaluated models. The highest R2 was observed by the Tanaka model (0.432). The asymptotic models presented similar R2 mean values. All nonlinear models presented similar values of error sum of squares (ESS), average prediction error (APE) and mean absolute deviation (MAD). The place and year of birth showed a significant effect on the parameters A and k. In general, all the models presented some tendency to sub or overestimate the scrotal perimeter. The results obtained allowed the conclusion that the Brody model was the most adequate to describe the scrotal circumference according to the age of Nellore bulls raised in extensive management

EFEITO DA PENTOXIFILINA NA FUNÇÃO TESTICULAR E PRODUÇÃO ESPERMÁTICA DE EQUINOS SUBMETIDOS A ESTRESSE TÉRMICO ESCROTAL

O presente estudo propõe avaliar o efeito do tratamento oral com pentoxifilina sobre a qualidade seminal, morfometria, histologia e expressão gênica testicular de garanhões submetidos ao estresse térmico escrotal. Além disso, objetiva testar a eficiência de novo método de aquecimento escrotal na espécie equina. Para isso 14 garanhões foram divididos em três grupos: Controle (CT, n=4), Degenerado (DG, n=5) e Degenerado Tratado (PTX, n=5). O insulto térmico escrotal foi realizada utilizando uma bolsa térmica acoplada a uma fonte de ar aquecido a 50º C, durante uma hora no início da manhã e uma hora no final da tarde, no D-1 e D0. Um dia após o insulto (D1), o tratamento com 17 mg/kg pentoxifilina oral, a cada 12 h, foi iniciado e conduzido por 30 dias. Os animais foram coletados duas vezes por semana do D-24 ao D60 e o sêmen avaliado quanto a cinética, morfologia espermática, integridade de membrana plasmática, geração do ânion superóxido intracelular e mitocondrial, índice de peroxidação lipídica e índice de caspases ativadas 3 e 7. No D30 e D60 biópsias testiculares foram realizadas e as amostras destinadas a histopatologia, e ao RT-qPCR, quanto a resposta a apoptose, choque térmico e estresse oxidativo. As medidas testiculares de comprimento, altura e largura foram mensuradas utilizando paquímetro, e o volume testicular relativo foi calculado, uma vez por semana do D-5 ao D60. Dentre os resultados obtidos, o método de estresse térmico escrotal utilizado se mostrou eficiente em induzir degeneração testicular em garanhões. O tratamento com a pentoxifilina apresentou efeito benéfico no sêmen quanto a motilidade total e porcentagem de espermatozoides rápidos. Além disso, minimizou a peroxidação lipídica, previniu a ativação de mecanismos de apoptose nos espermatozoides, e reduziu o número de defeitos espermáticos (defeitos totais, maiores, de cabeça, presença de células germinativas e formas teratológicas). Na avaliação histológica, o fármaco promoveu redução dos danos causados pelo calor no D60, como uma menor presença de ondulação da lâmina basal refletindo uma menor atrofia dos túbulos seminíferos no entanto, não foi eficiente em prevenir o aparecimento de lesões, como o edema intesticial, vacuolizaçao de células germinativas, ausência de espermatozoides e aumento da luz dos túbulos seminíferos. Os efeitos benéficos da pentoxifilina podem ser atribuídos à inibição da apoptose em células germinativas observada aos 30 e 60 dias pós-insulto térmico e à ativação de mecanismos de proteção celular em resposta ao choque térmico. No entanto, mais estudos, quanto a dose e tempo de uso da pentoxifilina, são necessários para se alcançar melhores respostas no tratamento da degeneração testicular em equinos.

The objectives of this study are to evaluate the effect of oral treatment with pentoxifylline on seminal quality, morphometry, histology, and gene expression in the testicle of stallions thermal-induced. In addition, it aims to investigate the efficiency of a new method of scrotal heating. For this, 14 stallions were divided into three groups: Control (CT, n = 4), Degenerate (DG, n = 5) and Degenerate Treated (PTX, n = 5). The scrotal heating was induced by a thermal bag attached to an air source at 50 ° C, for an hour in the early morning and an hour in the late afternoon, on D-1 and D0. One day after the insult (D1), treatment with oral pentoxifylline (17mg/Kg) every 12 hours was initiated and carried out for 30 days. Twice-a-week semen collections were performed from D24 to D60 and semen was evaluated for kinetics, morphology, plasma membrane integrity, generation of intracellular and mitochondrial superoxide anion, lipid peroxidation index and activated caspase 3 and 7 index. In D30 and D60 testicular biopsies were carried out and the samples destined to histopathology and to RT-qPCR, regarding the response to apoptosis, heat-shock and oxidative stress. Testicular length, height and width were measured, using a caliper, and the relative testicular volume were calculated once a week from D5 to D60. Among the results obtained, the scrotal thermal stress method used was efficient in inducing testicular degeneration in stallions. Treatment with pentoxifylline showed a beneficial effect on semen in terms of total motility and percentage of rapid sperm. In addition, it minimized the lipid peroxidation, the activation of apoptosis mechanisms in sperm and caused decreased number of sperm defects (total, major and head defects, the presence of germ cells and teratological forms). In the histological evaluation, the drug led to a reduction of heat damage in D60, as a lower presence of basal membrane undulation - reflecting less atrophy of the seminiferous tubules - however, the drug was not effective in preventing the onset of lesions such as interstitial edema, germ cell vacuolation, absence of sperm, and increased lumen of the seminiferous tubules. These effects can be related to the inhibition of apoptosis in germ cells at 30 and 60 days after thermal insult and the activation of the cellular protection mechanism in response to heat shock. However, more studies about the dose and time of the use of pentoxifylline are needed to achieve better responses in the treatment of testicular degeneration in horses.

CARACTERIZAÇÃO MORFOLÓGICA, ÍNDICES MORFOMÉTRICOS E AVALIAÇÃO TESTICULAR DO EQUINO BAIXADEIRO

O cavalo Baixadeiro para ter padrão racial reconhecido, precisa de estudos que estabeleçam seus parâmetros, estudos esses que possibilitarão estabelecer e reconhecer seu status morfológico ao comparar seus componentes aos das demais raças existentes, assim o firmando como uma raça naturalizada e definindo seu padrão zootécnico. O presente estudo visa obter medidas lineares corporais e testiculares e avaliar os índices morfométricos do grupamento racial do cavalo Baixadeiro, caracterizando morfologicamente e definindo um padrão racial para esse grupo; aferir e promover a análise descritiva das medidas biométricas corporais neste grupamento racial; estimar índices morfométricos a partir destas medidas para avaliar tendências exibidas pelos dados biométricos, além de exibir os padrões de classificação funcional gerados pelos índices; avaliar as características de biometria testicular correlacionando-as com a idade e peso dos animais, observando a influência destas variáveis sobre a capacidade reprodutiva. Para os dados corporais foram mensurados 418 animais entre machos e fêmeas em sete municípios da Baixada Maranhense e aferidas 20 medidas lineares e coletados os parâmetros: localidade, sexo, pelagem, idade, peso por estimativa, utilidade do animal pelo criador e registro do animal. As medidas de altura foram (cernelha, codilho ao solo, joelho, boleto, garupa, cernelha ao esterno, vazio subesternal e dorso ao solo), de comprimento (corporal, cabeça, pescoço, espádua, dorso-lombar e garupa), de perímetro (torácico, canela e antebraço) e por fim as de largura (garupa, peito e cabeça). A partir destas foram calculados 13 índices morfométricos, relação cernelha garupa (RCG), índice peitoral (IP), índice dáctilo-torácico (IDT), peso estimado (P), índice corporal (IC), índice torácico (IT), índice de conformação (ICF), índice de carga 1 (ICG1), índice de carga 2 (ICG2), índice corporal relativo (ICR), grau de enselamento (GS), índice de compacidade 1 (ICO1) e índice de compacidade 2 (ICO2). Para biometria testicular foram avaliados 30 garanhões divididos em três grupos de idade. Os testículos direito e esquerdo foram medidos quanto ao comprimento, largura, altura e a largura escrotal total (LET) e com esses dados foi calculado o volume testicular. Testes estatísticos foram realizados para correlacionar algumas variáveis com as medidas corporais e testiculares. De acordo com o valor de p encontrado (p < 0,05), há diferença estatística significativa entre os dados biométricos em relação ao sexo nas medidas de altura de boleto e largura de peito, sendo ambas com médias superiores nos machos. Na correlação dos municípios com os dados biométricos observou-se que de acordo com o valor de p encontrado (p < 0,05), há diferença estatística significativa entre os dados biométricos em relação aos municípios amostrados. Foi classificado pelos índices como pônei e baixo de frente, pois tem altura de 128,50 cm; longe da terra e indicado a velocidade; com peso médio de 246,848 kg e um animal hipométrico; um cavalo para trabalho de sela e pequenas trações; suportando carga de 91,986 kg, trabalhando a trote ou galope e carga de 156,047 kg, trabalhando a passo e com bom grau de enselamento. As características biométricas testiculares de comprimento, largura, altura e volume testicular são em geral maiores para o testículo esquerdo do que para o direito neste grupamento racial. A LET em todos os grupos etários foi maior que 80 mm. Para todas estas comparações, houve correlação estatisticamente significativa positiva (p < 0,05) e os coeficientes de correlação encontrados determinaram correlações fortes (r > 0,70) para as relações entre CD, CE, LD, LE, LET, VTD e VTE em função do peso, e correlação moderada (0,40 r 0,69) entre HD e HE em função do peso. Em todas as correlações, quanto maior o valor do peso, maiores serão os valores da biometria testicular. De acordo com o valor de p encontrado (p > 0,05), não há diferença estatisticamente significativa entre as médias das características da biometria testicular em relação aos grupos de idade.

In order to have a recognized racial pattern, the Studhorse requires studies that establish its parameters, studies that will allow establishing and recognizing its morphological status when comparing its components with those of other breeds, thus establishing it as a naturalized breed and defining its zootechnical standard. The present study aims to obtain linear corporal and testicular measurements and to evaluate the morphometric indices of the racial group of the horse "Baixadeiro", characterizing morphologically and defining a racial pattern for this group; To gauge and promote the descriptive analysis of the biometric measures of body in this racial grouping; To estimate morphometric indices from these measures to evaluate trends exhibited by biometric data, besides showing the functional classification patterns generated by the indices; To evaluate the characteristics of testicular biometry correlating them with the age and weight of the animals, observing the influence of these variables on the reproductive capacity. For the body data, 418 animals were measured between males and females in seven municipalities of Baixada Maranhense and measured 20 linear measures and collected the parameters: locality, sex, coat, age, weight by estimate, utility of the animal by the breeder and animal registration. The height measures were (withers, ground, knee, billet, croup, sternum to sternum, substernal void and back to ground), length (body, head, neck, shoulder, back, and croup), perimeter (Thoracic, cinnamon and forearm) and finally those of width (croup, chest and head). From these, 13 morphometric indices, relation to the croup (RCG), pectoral index (PI), dáctilo-thoracic index (TDI), estimated weight (P), body index (HF), thoracic index (ICF), load index 1 (ICG1), load index 2 (ICG2), relative body index (ICR), degree of shading (GS), compactness index 1 (ICO1) and compactness index 2 (ICO2) . For testicular biometry 30 stallions were evaluated, divided into three age groups. The right and left testicles were measured for length, width, height and total scrotal width (LET), and with these data the testicular volume was calculated. Statistical tests were performed to correlate some variables with body and testicular measurements. According to the p value found (p 0.70) for the relationships between CD, CE, LD, LE, LET, VTD and VTE As a function of weight, and a moderate correlation (0.40 r 0.69) between HD and HE as a function of weight. In all correlations, the higher the value of weight, the higher the values of testicular biometry. According to the p value found (p> 0.05), there is no statistically significant difference between the means of testicular biometry characteristics in relation to the age groups.

Estimativas de herdabilidades e correlações genéticas entre características reprodutivas em touros da raça Nelore / Genetic correlations and heritability estimates of reproductive traits of Nellore bulls

Foram obtidas estimativas de variância fenotípica, genética e residual, herdabilidades e correlações genéticas para as características reprodutivas em 5.903 animais da raça Nelore. O modelo experimental utilizado foi o método de máxima verossimilhança restrita livre de derivadas. Os valores de herdabilidade foram de 0,24±0,05 para perímetro escrotal aos 450 dias de idade e de 0,37±0,05 aos 21 meses de idade, na ocasião do exame andrológico; de 0,24±0,05 e 0,26±0,05 para comprimento dos testículos esquerdo e direito; de 0,29±0,05 e 0,31±0,05 para largura dos testículos esquerdo e direito; de 0,12±0,04 para formato testicular; de 0,33±0,06 para volume testicular; de 0,11±0,03 para turbilhonamento; de 0,08±0,03 para motilidade e de 0,05±0,02 para vigor espermático; de 0,20±0,04, 0,03±0,02 e 0,19±0,04 para defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais, respectivamente. As características biométricas testiculares apresentaram valores de herdabilidade moderados a altos, enquanto as características seminais valores baixos. Correlações genéticas entre perímetro escrotal com todas as características reprodutivas foram favoráveis, o que sugere o perímetro escrotal como característica de escolha na seleção de touros.(AU)

Estimates of phenotypic, genetics and residual variances for reproductive traits in 5903 Nellore bulls were obtained. The experimental model used was multiple trait derivative-free restricted maximum likelihood. The values obtained for heritability were 0.24±0.05 for scrotal circumference at 450 days of age and 0.37±0.05 at 21 months for age at the time of the breeding soundness evaluation; 0.24±0.05 and 0.26±0.05 for left and right testicle length; 0.29±0.05 and 0.31±0.05 for left and right testicle width; 0.12±0.04 for testicle format; 0.33±0.06 for testicle volume; 0.11±0.03 for gross motility; 0.08±0.03 for individual motility and 0.05±0.02 for spermatic vigor; 0.20±0.04, 0.03±0.02 and 0.19±0.04 for larger defects, smaller defects and total defects, respectively. The values for heritability for testicular biometric characteristics were moderate to high while the seminal characteristics, presented low values. Genetic correlations between scrotal circumference with all the reproductive traits were favorable, suggesting the scrotal circumference as a feature of choice in the selection of bulls.(AU)