Reproductive and fertility parameters of ewes from the Colombian tropical highlands / Parámetros reproductivos y de fertilidad de ovejas en el trópico alto de Colombia

ABSTRACT Two studies were conducted on sheep in the high tropics of Colombia to study reproductive and fertility parameters associated with animal growth in this ecological zone. In the first trial, 1,389 records were used to analyze, through descriptive statistics, the fertility parameters, the birth rate, and the yield per multiple births of three genetic groups of sheep: the native Criolla and Manchada Paramuna breeds, and they were compared with the imported race Blackface. In the second study, the duration of the estrous cycle was determined and serum progesterone values were determined during the estrous cycle in 19 Criolla x Romney Marsh crossbred ewes, in this experiment, five moments of the cycle were analyzed. The fertility rates found in the Criolla and Manchada Paramuna breeds were 73.1 and 72 %, respectively, and were higher than those of the Blackface sheep (65 %). Blackface ewes showed the highest incidence of multiple births (29 %) and Manchada Paramuna ewes had the highest birth rates (93.7 %). Criolla x Romney Marsh crossbred ewes recorded a mean duration of the estrous cycle of 17.8 d. The highest progesterone secretion (11.5 nmol/L) occurred on day 9 of the estrous cycle, while in the estrus phases, its value was 0.32 nmol/L. This study contributes to the knowledge of the reproductive aspects of Colombian native sheep.

RESUMEN Se realizaron dos estudios en ovejas en el trópico alto de Colombia, para estudiar los parámetros reproductivos y de fertilidad asociados con el crecimiento animal, en esta zona ecológica. En el primer ensayo, se utilizaron 1.389 registros para analizar, a través de estadísticas descriptivas, los parámetros de fertilidad, la tasa de natalidad y el rendimiento por parto múltiple, de tres grupos genéticos de ovejas: las razas nativas Criolla y Manchada Paramuna y se compararon con la raza importada Blackface. En el segundo estudio, se determinó la duración del ciclo estral y se determinaron valores de progesterona sérica durante el ciclo estral, en 19 ovejas cruzadas Criolla x Romney Marsh; en este experimento, se analizaron cinco momentos del ciclo. Las tasas de fertilidad encontradas en las razas Criolla y Manchada Paramuna fue de 73,1 y 72 %, respectivamente, superior a la de las ovejas Blackface (65 %). Las ovejas Blackface mostraron la mayor incidencia de partos múltiples (29 %) y las ovejas Manchada Paramuna tuvieron las tasas de parto más altas (93,7 %). Las ovejas cruzadas Criolla x Romney Marsh registraron una duración media del ciclo estral de 17,8 d. La mayor secreción de progesterona (11,5 nmol/L) ocurrió el día 9 del ciclo estral, mientras que en las fases del estro, su valor fue de 0,32 nmol/L. Este estudio contribuye con el conocimiento de los aspectos reproductivos de las ovejas nativas colombianas.

Evaluation of reproductive performance in indigenous endemic ornamental fish Sahyadria denisonii using hormones under captive environment

Aim: The present study aimed to develop the hatchery technology for production of indigenous ornamental fish Sahyadria denisonii to ensure year round seeds and for conservation of natural resources.Methodology: In the present investigation, brooders were collected from wild, acclimatized to hatchery condition and enriched under captive environment. The mature brooders were injected with three different synthetic hormones namelyt. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), Ovatide and WOVA-FH at different doses (0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 ml/kg of female and half a dose to male). Results: Fishes did not release their gametes naturally after inducement. Hence, artificial fertilization was carried out after 16 hrs of injection. Among the synthetic hormones used WOVA-FH @ 0.5 ml kg-1 of female and half a dose to male showed better breeding performance in terms of number of spawned eggs, fertilization rate (75.3%) and hatching rate (83.0%). Interpretation: Synthetic hormone WOVA-FH, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and ovatide to female and male through artificial fertilization can be adopted for captive breeding of Indigenous endemic ornamental fish Sahyadria denisonii.

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Impact of Subclinical Endometritis on Reproductive Performance of Nili-Ravi Buffalo

Subclinical endometritis (SCE) is the inflammation of endometrium without systemic illness, hence remains mostly undiagnosed and untreated. The early diagnosis necessitates the evaluation of important risk factors. The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors of SCE and their effects on reproductive performance of Nili-Ravi buffalo. 100 buffaloes approaching parturition were selected. During calving, various risk factors viz., type of calving, peri-parturient disorders, sex and birth weight of calf, gestation period and season of calving were recorded. Buffaloes were subjected to endometrial cytology using cytobrush method on 45 day postpartum (DPP) and divided into 2 groups viz., buffaloes ‘with SCE’ (>5% PMN; n=38) and ‘without SCE’ (≤5% PMN; n=62). Buffaloes in estrus were artificially inseminated and fertility parameters were recorded. The occurrence of SCE was significantly affected by calving assistance (OR=11.74; P<0.001), peri-parturient disorders (OR=6.87; P<0.05) and gestation period (OR=1.16; P<0.05). Sex, birth weight of calf and season of calving were not associated with SCE. The service period of buffaloes did not vary between two groups. The median days open was significantly (P<0.05) higher in buffaloes with as compared to buffaloes without SCE (141 vs. 117 d). Buffaloes with SCE had significantly (P<0.05) lower first service conception (21.1 vs. 43.5%) and took more (P<0.05) mean number of services per conception (2.71 vs. 1.62) compared to buffaloes without the SCE. It may be concluded that risk factors around the time of calving control the onset of SCE which in turn has negative impact on reproductive performance of Nili-Ravi buffaloes

Reproducción de conejos bajo condiciones tropicales, efectos negativos y posibles soluciones / Reproduction of rabbits under tropical conditions, negative effects and possible solutions

RESUMEN La fisiología digestiva y capacidad reproductiva hacen del conejo una especie con potencial para la producción de carne. En clima templado, su adecuado manejo reproductivo permite obtener entre 6 y 10 partos anuales con camadas de 6 y hasta 12 gazapos. En zonas tropicales, el estrés calórico disminuye su capacidad reproductiva. Las hembras presentan un incremento en la secreción de corticosteroides, modificando la secreción de la hormona liberadora de gonadotropina (GnRH), la hormona estimulante del folículo (FSH) y la hormona luteinizante (LH), disminuyendo el crecimiento y desarrollo folicular, calidad de ovocitos y la ovulación, y con ello el número de partos y tamaño de camada. En los machos se afecta la libido y la capacidad de monta. En la calidad seminal, disminuye 7.8 % el volumen, 7.7 % la concentración, 1.7 % la morfología y 5.5 % la motilidad. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue describir las estrategias utilizadas para disminuir el estrés calórico, que incluyó regular la temperatura en las instalaciones, suplementos alimenticios, cruzamiento de razas locales con razas mejoradas, desarrollo de líneas genéticas para climas tropicales, implementación de biotecnologías reproductivas como la inseminación artificial o criopreservación de semen, mejorando el comportamiento reproductivo del conejo bajo condiciones tropicales.

ABSTRACT The digestive physiology and reproductive capacity of the rabbit make it a species with potential for meat production. In a temperate climate, its adequate reproductive management allows to obtain between 6 and 10 annual litters per female with 6 up to 12 kits per litter. In tropical areas, heat stress alters metabolism and hormonal function, decreasing their reproductive capacity. In females, the main changes include an increase in the secretion of corticosteroids, modifying the secretion of gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH), stimulating follicle hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), decreasing the growth and follicular development, oocyte quality and ovulation, and with it the number of births and size of litter. In males, libido and ability to mate are affected. In the seminal quality, a decrease of 7.8 % in volume, 7.7 % in concentration, 1.7 % in morphology and 5.5 % in motility is observed. The objective of the present work was to describe the strategies used to reduce the caloric stress. These included regulating the temperature in the facilities, supplementary food, crossing of local breeds with improved breeds, development of genetic lines for tropical climates, implementation of reproductive biotechnologies such as artificial insemination or cryopreservation of semen, improving the reproductive behavior of the rabbit under tropical conditions.

Reproductive Performance of Carica papaya, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Ipomoea batatas on Female African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

This study investigated the reproductive performance of pawpaw (Carica papaya) seeds, hibiscus plant (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) leaves and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) leaves on some reproductive parameters (ovary weight, mean egg diameter and egg fecundity) in female African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). One hundred and twenty (120) juveniles of C. gariepinus were collected from the University of Calabar fish farm. The 120 fish were randomly divided into 12 experimental tanks measuring 80x80x80 cm (L x W x H) using a completely randomized design (CRD). Three grams (3 g) of each test plant were incorporated into 1 kg of Coppens feed (3 g/kg) and reformulated into four experimental diets; Treatment A- Control, B- pawpaw seed meal, C- Hibiscus leaf meal and D- sweet potato leaf meal. The experiment was done in three replications. The fish were fed twice daily for 6 months. Data obtained were analyzed using a one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results obtained revealed that the different test substances significantly (p<0.05) negatively affected the different reproductive parameters studied. The ovary weight, gonadosomatic index (GSI), egg diameter, fecundity as well as total weight significantly (p<0.05) decreased in all the treated fish when compared with that of the control. Pawpaw seed meal (PSM) had the highest effect on the reproductive parameters of the fish studied (ovary weight, GSI, fecundity and egg diameter values of 14.89±5.51, 0.82±0.30, 19371±51.84 and 0.63±0.07, respectively) when compared to the other test plants. The findings of this study suggest that C. papaya seeds, hibiscus leaves and sweet potato leaves have the potential to impair reproductive performance in female African catfish. Therefore, holistic measures should always be taken when using these plants considering the effect it could exert on other aquatic inhabitants and systems.

Cytological endometritis in dairy cows: diagnostic threshold, risk factors, and impact on reproductive performance

We determined the threshold proportion of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) for a diagnosis of cytological endometritis (CEM), the risk factors for this condition, and its impact on reproductive performance in dairy cows. Uterine cytology was performed on 407 Holstein cows 4 weeks postpartum to determine the proportions of endometrial cells and PMNs. A receiver operator characteristics curve was used to determine the threshold above which the PMN proportion affected the likelihood of cows conceiving by 200 days postpartum. The optimal threshold was ≥ 14% PMN (sensitivity, 31.3%; specificity, 81.7%; p < 0.05). The farm identity, retained placenta (odds ratio [OR] = 1.87), and septicemic metritis (OR = 3.07) were risk factors for CEM (p < 0.05). Cows with CEM were less likely to resume cyclicity (OR = 0.58) and to conceive by 200 days postpartum (hazard ratio = 0.58). Cows with CEM tended (p < 0.1) to be less likely to become pregnant after their first insemination (OR = 0.65) and to require a greater number of inseminations per conception (2.3 vs. 2.2). In conclusion, a PMN threshold of 14% defined the presence of CEM at 4 weeks postpartum. The farm, retained placenta, and septicemic metritis were risk factors for CEM, which reduces subsequent reproductive performance.

Growth and reproduction in captivity unveils remarkable life-history plasticity in the smallnose fanskate, Sympterygia bonapartii (Chondrichthyes: Rajiformes)

We analyzed growth and reproduction of captive-born smallnose fanskates Sympterygia bonapartii. Egg cases were obtained from oviposition of two females caught in the wild and held at Temaikèn Aquarium. Following hatching, growth was analyzed in 13 females and 21 males until sexual maturity. Pattern of oviposition activity and reproductive performance were evaluated in six of the captive-reared females. Four models were fitted to growth data, among which the logistic function was the one attaining the best fit. The highest growth rate for both sexes was recorded during the first year of life, whereas growth was significantly higher in females than in males during the second year. Size at first oviposition was 61.7 ± 3.5 cm TL, similar to wild specimens. However, captive-reared females reached maturity before two years of age, i.e. much earlier than wild skates, implying a significant phenotypic plasticity in this species. The similarity in size at maturity and the difference in age at maturity between captive and wild specimens indicate that there is a decoupling of both parameters mediated through growth rates. Captive-born skates reproduced successfully and yielded viable offspring, indicating that the environment at Temaikèn Aquarium is suitable for S. bonapartii to attain its full life cycle.(AU)

Analizamos el crecimiento y la reproducción de ejemplares de raya marmorada, Sympterygia bonapartii nacidas en cautiverio. Se obtuvieron ovicápsulas a partir de la oviposición de dos hembras capturadas en la naturaleza y mantenidas en el Acuario Temaikèn. Posteriormente a la eclosión, se analizó el crecimiento en 13 hembras y 21 machos hasta la madurez sexual. Se evaluó el patrón de oviposición y la performance reproductiva en seis de las hembras criadas en cautiverio. Se ajustaron cuatro modelos a los datos de crecimiento, entre los cuales la función logística fue la que logró el mejor ajuste. Para ambos sexos, la mayor tasa de crecimiento se registró durante el primer año de vida. Durante el segundo año, la tasa de crecimiento fue significativamente mayor en hembras que en machos. La talla de primera oviposición fue de 61,7 ± 3,5 cm LT, similar a la estimada en rayas silvestres. Sin embargo, las hembras criadas en cautiverio alcanzaron la madurez antes de los dos años de vida, es decir mucho antes que en el ambiente natural, lo que implica una plasticidad fenotípica significativa en esta especie. La similitud en la talla de madurez y la diferencia en la edad de madurez entre individuos cautivos y silvestres indican que hay un desacople de ambos parámetros mediado por la tasa de crecimiento. Los individuos nacidos en cautiverio se reprodujeron exitosamente y dejaron descendencia viable, lo que indica que el ambiente del Acuario Temaikèn es adecuado para que S. bonapartii complete su ciclo de vida.(AU)

Performance reprodutiva de leitoas submetidas à inseminação artificial pós-cervical / Reproductive performance of gilts submitted to post-cervical artificial insemination

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho reprodutivo de nulíparas submetidas à inseminação artificial pós-cervical (IAPC) comparada à inseminação artificial tradicional (IAT). Foram avaliados ocorrência de sangramento, ocorrência de refluxo, dificuldade no transpasse da cérvix e total de células refluídas até 30 minutos após inseminação. Fêmeas submetidas à IAPC (n=279) foram inseminadas com doses de 1,5 x 109 diluídas em 45mL, e fêmeas submetidas à IAT (n=273) inseminadas com doses de 2,5 x 109 em 80mL. O transpasse da cérvix foi possível em 91,04% (254/279) das leitoas. A dificuldade no transpasse foi de 41,58% (116/279), não comprometendo o desempenho reprodutivo (P>0,05). Presença de sangramento não afetou a taxa de parto nem o número de leitões nascidos para ambos os tratamentos (P>0,05). O percentual de espermatozoides presentes no refluxo foi maior na IAT, não sendo observada diferença no tamanho de leitegada de acordo com o percentual de espermatozoides no refluxo (P>0,05) e no número de leitões nascidos totais (11,63 e 11,81) entre os tratamentos IAT e IAPC, respectivamente. Pode-se realizar IAPC em leitoas sem causar redução no desempenho, utilizando-se doses com 1,5 x 109 células espermáticas.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reproductive performance of gilts subjected to post-cervical artificial insemination (PCAI) compared to traditional artificial insemination (TAI). We also evaluated the degree of difficulty in bypassing the cervix, time required to perform the insemination, presence of bleeding after insemination, semen backflow, as well as the volume and the total reflow cells 30 minutes after insemination. Gilts submitted to PCAI (n = 279) were inseminated with 45 mL doses of 1.5 x 109 sperm cells and the ones submitted to TAI (n = 273) were inseminated with 80 mL doses with 2.5 x 109 cells. The bypassing of the cervix was possible in 91.04% (254/279) of gilts. The difficulty bypassing the cervix in at least one of the gilt's PCAI procedures happened with 41.58% (116/279) of the females, but it did not affect reproductive performance (P>0.05). The presence of bleeding after insemination did not affect the farrowing rate and total number of piglets born for both treatments (P>0.05). The average time needed to carry out the PCAI was 1.47 minutes and the TAI was 4.04 minutes. The percentage of sperm present in the reflux was higher in TAI than the PCAI, but no correlation was found between litter size and the percentage of sperm in reflux (P>0.05) and the total number of piglets born (11.63 and 11.81) between TAI and PCAI treatments, respectively. Thus, it is possible to perform the post-cervical artificial insemination in gilts without causing a reduction in reproductive performance, using doses with a concentration of 1.5 x 109 sperm cells.(AU)

Population reproductive regularity and reproductive performance of rhesus monkeys and cynomolgus monkeys in Kunming area / 中国比较医学杂志

Objective To explore the population reproductive regularity and reproductive performance of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys in Kunming area, and to provide reference data for the construction of rhesus and cynomolgus monkey breeding base,reproductive biology research and biological resources protection.Methods The reproductive regularity and reproductive performance in a rhesus monkey population of 20 males and 130 females, and a cynomolgus monkey population of 120 males and 780 females in a large-scale experimental monkey breeding base in Kunming were observed for a whole year and statistically analyzed.Results There was a distinct seasonal variation in the reproduction of rhesus monkeys in Kunming area, while no obvious seasonal changes was observed in cynomolgus monkeys.The pregnancy rate, reproductive rate and neonatal survival rate of rhesus monkeys were 76.15%, 69.23% and 90.70%, respectively.The pregnancy rate, neonatal reproduction rate and survival rate of cynomolgus monkeys were 78.98%, 74.87% and 94.81%, respectively.The menstrual cycle and pregnancy period of rhesus monkeys were (28.80 ± 2.33) d and (165.87 ± 7.52) d, respectively.The menstrual cycle and pregnancy period of cynomolgus monkeys were (29.35 ± 3.05) d and (157.93 ± 5.42) d, respectively.The average birth weight and weaning weight of rhesus monkey pups were (425.00 ± 100.50) g and (1491.67 ± 172.35) g, and those of cynomolgus monkeys were (314.33 ± 61.18) g and (1013.50 ± 115.50) g, respectively.Conclusions The reproduction regularity of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys in Kunming area are defined.The reproductive performance of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys are reported in detail.It provides basic data for the breeding of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys in Kunming area and the development of research of experimental monkey reproductive biology.

Reproductive performance of genetically engineered mice housed in different housing systems / 한국실험동물학회지

The genetically engineered mice require special husbandry care and are mainly housed in Individually Ventilated Cage (IVC) systems and Static Micro Isolator Cages (SMIC) to minimize the risk for spreading undesirable microorganisms. However, the static micro isolation cage housing like SMIC are being replaced with IVC systems in many facilities due to a number of benefits like a higher density housing in limited space, better protection from biohazards and allergens and decreased work load due to decreased frequency of cage changing required in this system. The purpose of this study was to examine the reproductive performance of genetically engineered mice housed in individually ventilated cages (IVC) and Static Micro Isolator Cages (SMIC). When the B6C3-Tg (APPswe, PSEN1dE9) 85Dbo/Mmjax transgenic mice were housed in these two housing systems, the number of litters per dam, number of pups born per dam and number of pups weaned per dam were found to be slightly higher in the IVC as compared to the SMIC but the difference was not significant (P<0.05). In case of Growth Associated Protein 43 (GAP-43) knockout mice, the number of litters born per dam and the number of pups born per dam were marginally higher in the IVC as compared to those housed in SMIC but the difference was not significant (P<0.05). Only the number of pups weaned per dam were found to be significantly higher as compared to those housed in the SMIC system at P<0.05.

The effect of Glycoline® on reproductive efficiency in high-producing dairy cows / Efecto del Glycoline® sobre la eficiencia reproductiva en vacas lecheras de alta producción

Objective. Determine the effect of Glycoline® on reproductive efficiency in high producing dairy cows. Materials and methods. 100 Holstein cows one month before delivery were selected. About 21 days before delivery they were put in a stable and were randomized in two groups: Glycoline® Group (GG, n = 50), 300 g/day of Glycoline® for 21 days antepartum and 250 g/day of GlycoLine® over the following 21 days postpartum, and the Control Group (CG, n = 50) with the same feed and silage ration as GG during the same period, but without the addition of Glycoline®. Events and reproductive variables of the cows were recorded for 202 days. The data were systematized, analyzed and statistically compared. Results. Comparisons were made between GG and CG respectively: Retained placenta (0.0 vs. 12.0%; p=0.027), falling cow disease (14.3 vs. 44.0%; p=0.002), uterine involution (64.6 vs. 36.4%; p=0.019 ), uterine infection (10.4% vs. 35.5%; p=0.006), lack of ovarian activity (6.3 vs. 25.6%; p=0.018), follicular cysts (0.0 vs. 18.2%, p = 0.002), luteal structures (25.0 vs. 9.3% ; p=0.058), mean estrus presentation (40.1% vs. 63.5%; p=0.033) inseminated females (79.6 vs. 68.0%; p=0.017), pregnancy rate at day 295 (57.1 vs. 46.0%; p≥0.317 ) and periods (days): 1st heat after delivery (39.8 vs. 63.2; p≤0.006), IA delivery (62.4 vs. 87.5; p≤0.006) pregnancy-delivery (81.7 vs. 93.6; p≤0.006; p=0.103). Conclusions. Results suggest that dietary Glycoline® added in the transition period improves reproductive efficiency of high-producing cows.

Objetivo. Determinar el efecto del Glycoline® sobre la eficiencia reproductiva en vacas lecheras de alta producción. Materiales y Métodos. Se seleccionaron 100 vacas Holstein un mes antes del parto. Alrededor de 21 días antes del parto se ubicaron en un establo y se asignaron al azar a dos Grupos: Grupo Glycoline® (GG; n=50), 300 g/día de Glycoline® durante 21 días preparto y 250 g/día de Glycoline® durante los siguientes 21 días posparto y Grupo Control (GC, n=50) la misma ración de concentrado y ensilaje que el GG durante el mismo período de tiempo, pero sin la adición de Glycoline®. Se registraron los eventos y las variables reproductivas de las vacas durante 202 días. Los datos fueron sistematizados, analizados y comparados estadísticamente. Resultados. Comparaciones entre el GG y GC respectivamente: Retención de placenta (0,0 vs 12.0%; p=0.027), síndrome de vaca caída (14.3 vs 44.0%; p=0.002), involución uterina (64.6 vs 36.4%; p=0.019), infección uterina (10.4% vs 35.5%; p=0.006), sin actividad ovárica (6.3 vs 25.6%; p=0.018), quistes foliculares (0.0 vs 18.2%, p=0.002), estructuras luteales (25.0 vs 9.3%; p=0.058), promedio presentación de celo (40.1% vs 63.5%; p=0.033), hembras inseminadas (79.6 vs 68.0%; p=0.017), tasa de preñez al día 295 (57.1 vs 46.0%; p≥0.317) y lapsos (días): parto 1er celo (39.8 vs 63.2; p≤0.006), parto IA (62.4 vs 87.5; p≤0.006) y parto-preñez (81.7 vs 93.6; p≤0.006; p=0.103). Conclusiones. Los resultados sugieren que el Glycoline® adicionado en la dieta en el período de transición, mejora la eficiencia reproductiva de vacas de alta producción.

Measurement and analysis of the reproductive performance in six commonly used SPF mice and rats / 中国比较医学杂志

Objective To determine the main reproductive performance of six SPF mice and rats preserved in our laboratory, including C57BL/6, BALB/c, NIH, KM, ICR mice and SD rats.Methods Inbred mice mated with full sib and random mating.Meanwhile, closed colony animals were bred by cross circular mating.These indexes of reproductive performance were measured in the six kinds of animals during the first birth to the fourth birth, i.e.the average litter size (ALZ), average baby number reared ( ABN) and average weaning number ( AWN), and weaning rate ( WA) were calculated.Meanwhile, the initial mating age in days, initial bearing age in days, first gestation and intervals were measured.Results The ALZ of inbred mice were 6 to 7.The reproductive indexes were basically stable in the first 3 births, however, the various data were dramatically declined in the fourth birth ( P<0.05 ) .The WA of BALB/c mice were 98%to 99%, and that of C57BL/6 mice were 96%to 98%.The ALZ of closed colony animals were 12 to 15, and significantly increased in the second and third births compared with that of the first birth (P<0.05), then was significantly reduced ( P<0.05) .The WA maintained at 98%to 99%in the NIH, KM and ICR mice.In contrast, The WA of SD rats was slightly lower, reaching 95%to 97%.The initial mating age in days of mice was between 70 d to 80 d.The initial bearing age in days and first gestation of rats were less than that of inbred mice, the initial bearing age in days and first gestation of closed colony rats were 136.3 d and 27.7 d, respectively.The pregnancy interval of inbred mice was between 34 d to 40 d,the pregnancy interval of closed colony mice was between 25.5 d to 28.7 d, the pregnancy interval of rats was between 32.8 d to33.8 d.Conclusions The 6 mouse and rat strains have a higher reproductive performance, and the data obtained in this study provide a basis for commercialized production of mice and rats in southern areas of China, and for establishment of rodent experimental animal resource.

Maternal and fetal effects after inhalation of the herbicide flumetralin / Efeitos maternos e fetais após inalação do herbicida flumetralin

Farm workers at Brazilian tobacco plantations are frequently exposed to toxic chemicals and eventually became contaminated with these products. Flumetralin is a inhibitor of axillary bud growth on tobacco and the effects of gestational exposure should be investigated since many pesticides cross the placental barrier and cause birth defects. The aim of this study was to investigate maternal and fetal effects caused by inhalation of Flumetralin. Pregnant Swiss mice inhaled Flumetralin for 10 or 20 minutes on the seventh day of pregnancy. On the 18th day, animals were euthanized and subjected to laparotomy for removal of the uterus and embryos. The uterus was weighed and the embryos were examined. Fetuses of both treatments showed visceral changes in the uterus, kidney and liver. Skeletal abnormalities included hydrocephalus and incomplete skull ossification in both groups. In addition, the treatment of 20 minutes exposure caused anomalies in the occipital bone and the 13rd rib besides internal bleeding. There was reduction in maternal weight gain and impaired intrauterine development of the fetus. The weight of heart, liver, kidneys and testicles of fetuses were significantly decreased. Inhalation of flumetralin proved to be potentially teratogenic in both treatments, with greater damage in the group treated for 20 minutes.

Trabalhadores agrícolas nas plantações de tabaco no Brasil são frequentemente expostos a produtos químicos tóxicos e, eventualmente, são contaminados com esses produtos. O Flumetralin é um inibidor de crescimento de gemas axilares em tabaco e os efeitos de sua exposição no decorrer da gestação devem ser investigados, uma vez que muitos agrotóxicos atravessam a barreira placentária e podem causar prejuízo ao desenvolvimento embrionário. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os possíveis efeitos maternos e fetais da inalação de Flumetralin. Camundongos Swiss prenhes inalaram Flumetralin por 10 ou 20 minutos no sétimo dia de gestação. No 18º dia, os animais foram eutanasiados e submetidos a laparotomia para coleta do útero e dos embriões. O útero foi pesado e os embriões foram avaliados. Fetos de camundongos em ambos os tratamentos apresentaram alterações viscerais no útero, rins e fígado. Com relação a anomalias esqueléticas, ambos mostraram hidrocefalia e ossificação incompleta do crânio. Além destes, o tratamento por 20 minutos de exposição apresentou alteração no osso occipital, na 130 costela e hemorragia interna. Houve diminuição no ganho de peso materno e diminuição do desenvolvimento intrauterino dos fetos. O peso do coração, fígado, rins e testículos dos fetos foram estatisticamente diminuídos. A inalação de Flumetralina mostrou ser potencialmente teratogênica em ambos os tratamentos, com danos maiores no tratado por 20 minutos.

Effect of body development from first insemination to first weaning on performance and culling until the third farrowing of Landrace x Large White swine females / Efeito do desenvolvimento corporal desde a primeira inseminação até o primeiro desmame no desempenho e descarte até o terceiro parto de fêmeas suínas Landrace x Large White

The aim of this study was to verify the association of sow body weight development until the 1st weaning with reproductive performance, piglet production and culling rate until the 3rd farrowing in 196 primiparous sows using logistic regression models. Each 10kg increase in weight gain in the 1stpregnancy (OR= 0.63), weight at 1st farrowing (OR= 0.70), weight at the 1st weaning (OR= 0.73) or weight gain from the 1startificial insemination (AI) to the 1st weaning (OR= 0.67) decreased the percentage of primiparous sows with long weaning-to-oestrus interval - WOI (>5 days). An increasing lactation length and an increase in the number of weaned piglets were responsible for respectively decreasing (OR= 0.77-0.80, per day of lactation) and increasing (OR= 1.52-1.59, per piglet weaned) the percentage of sows with long WOI. Sows with <159.5kg at weaning had higher odds of non-farrowing (NFR) compared to sows with >170kg (OR= 4.73). Sows with <17.5kg of gain from the 1st AI to the 1st weaning had higher odds (OR= 4.88) of NFR than sows gaining >30kg. Each additional lactation day decreased the NFR (OR= 0.74). Females weighing <139kg at the 1st AI had higher percentages of small numbers of total born in the second parity (STB2, OR= 2.00) and over three parities (OR= 3.28) compared to those weighing ≥139kg. Sows with weight gain <25kg at the 1st pregnancy had higher odds of STB2 (OR= 3.01) compared to sows gaining >35kg. Each 10kg of increase in weight at the 1st weaning or in weight gain from the 1st AI to the 1st weaning decreased the total culling rate (OR= 0.71 and 0.73, respectively) and culling for reproductive reasons (OR= 0.57 and 0.61, respectively). The culling rate until the 3rdfarrowing was also increased in sows with a smaller first litter size. The results show that not only reaching a minimum weight at the 1st AI but also having an adequate body weight gain until the 1st weaning is important for the reproductive performance, productivity and retention of Landrace x Large White Danbred sows in the herd.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi verificar, com modelos de regressão logística, a associação entre características de desenvolvimento corporal até o 1º desmame com o desempenho reprodutivo, produção de leitões e taxa de remoção até o 3º parto de 196 fêmeas suínas primíparas. Houve redução nas chances de as fêmeas terem intervalo desmame-estro (IDE) longo (>5 dias) a cada 10kg de aumento no ganho de peso na 1ª gestação - GPG1 (razão de chance - RC = 0,63), peso no 1º parto - PP1 (RC= 0,70), peso no 1º desmame - PD1 (RC= 0,73) ou ganho de peso da 1ª inseminação artificial (IA) ao 1º desmame - GPIAD1 (RC= 0,67). O percentual de porcas com IDE longo reduziu com o aumento da duração da lactação (RC= 0,77-0,80, por dia de lactação) e aumentou com o aumento no número de leitões desmamados (RC= 1,52-1,59, por leitão desmamado). Porcas com <159,5kg ao desmame tiveram maior chance de não parir (NP) em comparação a porcas com >170 kg (RC= 4,73). Porcas com <17,5kg de GPIAD1 tiveram maior chance (RC= 4,88) de NP do que porcas ganhando >30kg. O aumento da duração da lactação reduziu a chance de NP (RC= 0,74, para cada dia). Fêmeas com <139kg na 1ª IA tiveram maior chance de terem leitegada pequena no segundo parto - LPSP (RC= 2,00) ou ao longo de 3 partos (RC= 3,28), em comparação às fêmeas com ≥139kg. Fêmeas com GPG1 <25kg tiveram maior chance de LPSP (RC= 3,01) do que fêmeas com >35kg. Houve diminuição na taxa geral de descarte (RC= 0,71 e 0,73, respectivamente) e descarte por causas reprodutivas (RC= 0,57 e 0,61, respectivamente) para cada 10kg de aumento no PD1 e GPIAD1. A taxa de descarte até o 3º parto também aumentou nas porcas com menor leitegada no primeiro parto. Os resultados mostram que, além de atingir um peso mínimo na 1ª IA, o ganho de peso entre a 1ª IA e o primeiro desmame é importante para o desempenho reprodutivo, produtividade e retenção de fêmeas Danbred Landrace x Large White no rebanho.(AU)

Effects of the oral treatment with Copaifera multijuga oil on reproductive performance of male Wistar rats

Copaiba oil, extracted from Copaifera multijuga Hayne, Fabaceae, is widely used for medicinal purposes, especially to treat inflammatory processes. However, there is no report regarding its effect on reproductive performance after used in repeated doses orally. The present study evaluated the effects of the oral administration of Copaiba oil (at doses of 200, 500 or 2500 mg/kg) or water (control) for eight weeks in male Wistar rats. Treated males mated untreated females, and parameters as fertility rates, absolute and relative mass of accessory sexual organs and histology and development of the offspring were evaluated. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of 22 components accounting for 99.11% of the Copaiba oil. The main compounds identified were sesquisterpenes. The reproductive toxicology results indicate that there was no difference between the treated groups compared with the control group in any of the parameters, suggesting that the oral treatment with C. multijuga oil for eight weeks does not affect reproductive performance of male Wistar rats.

Zoological techniques parameters of Proechimys guyannensis(Rodentia, Echimydae) bred in captivity / Parâmetros zootécnicos de Proechimys guyannensis (Rodentia, Echimydae) criados em cativeiro

The rodents Proechimys guyannensis have led a great interest because they are considered as hosts to several pathogens causing zoological diseases. Therefore, it is important to know their biological and physiological parameters. The age at first cubs delivery and the average of birth interval per female were evaluated. The estimated age at puberty was 83 days. The number of pups born per delivery did not differ significantly when associated with the female mating age. However, an increase in the average mortality rate correlated with the increase in delivery number per female was detected. There is no statistical difference neither in the litter size in different seasons of the year, nor in the body weight between sexes for all ages. Differences were found in the daily water consumption and in the feed intake in animals with approximately 100 days of age, perhaps owing to the increased need for energy intake due to sexual activity or even because they had not reached adult weight yet. The parameters assessed in the present study are of relevance for maintaining this species in captivity as a laboratory animal.

Roedores da espécie Proechimys guyannensis têm motivado grande interesse por serem frequentementeconsiderados como hospedeiros de diversos agentes patogênicos causadores de doenças. É importanteestabelecer seus parâmetros biológicos e fisiológicos; neste contexto, foram avaliadas a idade ao primeiroparto e a média de intervalo de natalidade por fêmea. A idade à puberdade foi estimada em 83 dias.O número de filhotes nascidos por parto não diferiu significativamente com a idade das fêmeas aoacasalarem. Observou-se aumento da taxa média de mortalidade de acordo com o aumento do númerode partos por fêmea. Não houve diferença estatística no tamanho da ninhada em diferentes estações doano; tampouco houve diferença de peso entre os sexos. Foram detectadas diferenças no consumo diáriode água e no consumo de ração em animais com menos e mais de 100 dias de idade, talvez em funçãode aumento da necessidade de consumo de energia pela atividade sexual ou mesmo por ainda não teremalcançado o peso corporal de adulto. Os parâmetros apresentados são relevantes para a futura manutençãodesta espécie em cativeiro como animal de laboratório.

Retrospective surveillance of metabolic parameters affecting reproductive performance of Japanese Black breeding cows

This retrospective study was conducted to confirm the relationship between pre- and postpartum metabolic parameters and postpartum reproductive performance and to clarify seasonal characteristics of the metabolic parameters by using our metabolic profile test (MPT) database of Japanese Black breeding herds. In evaluation 1, MPT databases of blood samples from multiparous cows collected prepartum and postpartum were divided into two groups according to calving interval, and each MPT parameter was compared. In evaluation 2, the same MPT databases used in evaluation 1 were divided into two groups according to the sampling period. Significant differences were found in the prepartal total protein and postpartal gamma-glutamyltransferase in evaluation 1. In evaluation 2, significant differences were found in the prepartal and postpartal total protein, albumin/globulin ratio, and glucose. Clear seasonal differences in MPT results emphasized the usefulness of the MPT in breeding cattle herds fed home-pasture roughage and suggest that unsatisfactory reproductive performance during hot periods reflects inadequate nutritional content of the diet and possible reduced feed intake due to heat stress.

Proteína bruta, lisina e energia metabolizavel para matrizes suínas em reprodução / Crude protein lysine and metabolizable energy for sows in reproduction / Proteina bruta, lisina y energia metabolizable para hembras porcinas en reproduccioión

A atividade suinícola tem-se destacado nas últimas décadas por ser um dos setores agropecuários de elevado crescimento, eficácia e competitividade. Sabe-se que a nutrição dos animais vem passando por constantes mudanças, graças ao melhoramento genético implementado nas fêmeas suínas por meio de técnicas atualmente disponíveis. Geralmente, durante a lactação, o consumo voluntário de ração pelas porcas é insuficiente para atender às exigências de manutenção e máxima produção de leite, o que pode culminar em perda de peso corporal associada a diversos problemas reprodutivos. Devido ao baixo consumo, os nutricionistas precisam adequar programas nutricionais eficazes ao potencial genético e ao nível de produção das matrizes, tornando-se de fundamental importância, a elaboração de uma dieta com níveis mais elevados de nutrientes. Diante do exposto, esta revisão reúne informações referentes aos efeitos da proteína bruta, lisina e energia metabolizável sobre o desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo de matrizes suínas.

Over the past decades, swine production has been one of the agricultural sectors presenting high growth, efficacy and competitiveness. It is known that animal nutrition has been going through constant changes due to genetic improvement implemented in sows through techniques that are currently available. Generally during lactation, voluntary feed intake by sows is not enough to provide the requirements for maintenance and maximum milk production, which can culminate in body weight loss associated to several reproductive problems. Due to low consumption, nutritionists need to provide nutrition programs that are effective to the genetic potential and reproduction level of the sows. Thus, it is of great importance to develop a diet with high levels of nutrients. With this fact, this review aims to gather information on the effects of crude protein, lysine and metabolizable energy on productive and reproductive performance of sows.

La actividad porcina se ha destacado en las últimas décadas por ser uno de los sectores agropecuarios de elevado crecimiento, eficiencia y competitividad. Se conoce que la nutrición de los animales viene pasando por constantes cambios, gracias al mejoramiento genético implementado en las hembras porcinas a través de técnicas actualmente disponibles. Generalmente, durante la lactación, el consumo voluntario de ración por las cerdas es insuficiente para atender a las exigencias de manutención y máxima producción de leche, lo que suele culminar en pérdida del peso corporal asociada a diversos problemas reproductivos. Debido al bajo consumo, los nutricionistas necesitan adecuar programas nutricionales eficaces al potencial genético y al nivel de producción de las matrices, volviéndose de fundamental importancia la elaboración de una dieta con niveles más elevados de nutrientes. Dado lo expuesto, esta revisión reúne informaciones referentes a los efectos de la proteína cruda, lisina y energía metabolizable sobre el rendimiento productivo y reproductivo de las cerdas.

Impact of Biofertilizers on Growth and Reproductive Performance of Eisenia fetida (Savigny 1926) During Flower Waste Vermicomposting Process.

The growth and reproductive performance of epigeic earthworm Eisenia fetida in biofertilizers enriched flower waste vermicomposting was studied for 80 days in the laboratory. Six feeding compositions – Co-Flower waste (FW) alone; A- FW + Earthworms (E. fetida); B- FW+ EW + Azospirillum (Azos); C- FW + EW+ Phosphobacteria (PB); DFW+ EW+ Blue green algae (BGA); E- FW + EW + Rhizobium (Rhizo). Maximum number of earthworms was recorded in C and minimum number in A, highest average body weight was observed in E and least in A. Maximum average body length was noted in B and minimum in A. Higher reproductive performance of earthworms under the influence of biofertilizers were clearly visible in C and E than A. The microbial populations and availability of food materials from biofertilizers enriched flower waste increases the biomass, average body weight, average body length and also increases the reproductive performance of earthworms in the vermicomposting process.

Efeito da ordem de parto e da perda de peso durante a lactação no desempenho reprodutivo subsequente de matrizes suínas / The effect of parity order and lactation weight loss on subsequent reproductive performance of sows

Investigou-se o efeito da ordem de parto (OP) e da perda de peso durante a lactação no desempenho reprodutivo de 666 matrizes suínas. Foram formadas três classes de OP (OP1, OP2 e OP3-5) e duas classes de percentual de perda de peso (≤1% e >1%) durante a lactação. Foram avaliados: taxa de parto, intervalo desmame-estro (IDE) e tamanho da leitegada subsequente. Houve interação de OP versus perda de peso na taxa de parto das fêmeas (P<0,05). As fêmeas OP1 e OP2 tiveram maior chance (P<0,05) de não parir na classe >1% de perda de peso. A maior perda de peso não foi um fator de risco para não parir na condição OP3-5 (P>0,05). Não houve interação de OP versus perda de peso (P>0,05) para IDE e total de leitões nascidos. Fêmeas OP1 apresentaram IDE mais longo e menor tamanho da leitegada no parto subsequente (P<0,05) do que fêmeas OP2 e OP3-5. As perdas corporais na lactação não influenciaram o IDE (P>0,05), mas reduziram o tamanho da leitegada subsequente (P<0,05). Conclui-se que maior perda de peso na lactação resulta em aumento de falhas reprodutivas nas fêmeas mais jovens e reduz o tamanho da leitegada subsequente em todas as OP.

The effect of parity (PO) and weight loss during lactation on the subsequent reproductive performance of 666 sows was investigated. Sows were allocated into three PO classes (PO1, PO2 and PO3-5) and into two classes of weight loss percentage (≤1% and >1%) during lactation. Farrowing rate, weaning to estrus interval (WEI) and total born at next farrow were evaluated. There was an interaction effect between PO and weight loss on the farrowing rate (P<0.05). PO1 and PO2 females had more chance (P<0.05) of failure to farrow when weight loss was higher than 1%. However, the higher weight loss was not a risk factor to low farrowing rate in PO3-5 females (P>0.05). There was no interaction between PO and weight loss (P>0.05) on WEI and subsequent total born. PO1 females showed longer WEI and lower litter size on subsequent farrowing compared to PO2 and PO3-5 females. Weight loss did not affect WEI (P>0.05), but it decreased subsequent litter size (P<0.05). High weight loss during lactation results an increase in reproductive failures in young females and decreases subsequent litter size in all parity orders.