Acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking for girls aged 3-8 years with incomplete precocious puberty: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking for girls aged 3-8 years with incomplete precocious puberty (IPP).@*METHODS@#Sixty girls with IPP were randomly divided into an observation group (30 cases, 2 cases dropped off) and a control group (30 cases, 2 cases were eliminated). The girls in the control group were treated with healthy diet and proper exercise for 12 weeks. On the basis of the treatment in the control group, the girls in the observation group were treated with acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking. The acupuncture was applied at Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Guanyuan (CV 4), Guilai (ST 29), etc., the needles were retained for 20 min, acupuncture was given twice a week (once every 3 days). The auricular point sticking was applied at Luanchao (TF2), Neishengzhiqi (TF2), Neifenmi (CO18), Yuanzhong (AT2,3,4i), etc., twice a week. The treatment was given for 12 weeks. Before treatment, after treatment and in follow-up after 12 weeks of treatment completion, the Tanner stage of breast, serum contents of sex hormone (luteinizing hormone [LH], follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], estradiol [E2]) were observed. The ovarian volume, the number of follicles with diameter>4 mm, and the uterine volume were measured by abdominal color Doppler ultrasound. In addition, the safety of the observation group was evaluated.@*RESULTS@#Compared with before treatment, the Tanner stage of breast in the observation group was improved after treatment and in follow-up (P<0.05); after treatment and in follow-up, the Tanner stage of breast in the observation group was better than that in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with before treatment, the serum levels of LH and E2 in the observation group were increased (P<0.05), and the volume of bilateral ovaries was larger (P<0.05) in follow-up. Compared with before treatment, the serum contents of LH, FSH and E2 in the control group were increased (P<0.05), the volume of bilateral ovaries was larger (P<0.05), and the number of follicles was increased (P<0.05) after treatment and in follow-up. The serum levels of LH, FSH and E2 in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05), the volume of bilateral ovaries was smaller than that in the control group (P<0.05), and the number of follicles was lower than that in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with before treatment, the uterine volume in the two groups was larger in follow-up (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups after treatment and in follow-up (P>0.05). During the treatment, 3 cases in the observation group had slight abdominal pain and subcutaneous blood stasis, without serious adverse reactions.@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture combined with auricular point sticking could improve the Tanner stage of breast, reduce the level of sex hormone, slow down the development and maturation of ovary and follicle, and control the degree and speed of sexual development in girls aged 3-8 years with IPP.

Central nervous system imaging in girls with central precocious puberty: when is necessary?

ABSTRACT Objectives The determinants of an increased risk of an organic pathology underlying central precocious puberty (CPP) in girls remain contentious. The present study aimed to determine the clinical and hormonal findings that can be used to differentiate organic and idiopathic CPP in girls as a screening method so that only those considered likely to have organic CPP undergo cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Subjects and methods The medical records of 286 girls that received GnRH agonist (GnRHa) therapy for CPP were retrospectively evaluated. Chronological and bone age, height, pubertal stage, and basal/stimulated gonadotropin and estradiol (E2) levels, as well as cranial MRI findings at the time CPP was diagnosed were recorded. Clinical and hormonal parameters that can be used to differentiate between girls with organic and idiopathic CPP were identified using ROC curves. Results Organic CPP was noted in 6.3% of the participants. Puberty started before age 6 years in 88.9% of the girls with organic CPP. Mean E2 and peak luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were higher in the girls with organic CPP than in those with idiopathic CPP that were matched for pubertal stage, as follows: early stage puberty (Tanner 2 and 3): E2: 62.4 ± 19.8 pg/mL vs. 29.1 ± 9.5 pg/mL; peak LH: 16.8 ± 3.2 IU/L vs. 12.2 ± 3.7 IU/L; advanced stage puberty (Tanner 4): mean E2: 87.6 ± 3.4 pg/mL vs. 64.6 ± 21.2 pg/mL; peak LH: 20.8 ± 0.4 IU/L vs. 16.6 ± 5.8 IU/L (P < 0.001 for all). Thresholds for differentiating organic and idiopathic CPP in girls with early-stage puberty were 38.1 pg/mL for E2 (100% sensitivity and 80.4% specificity) and 13.6 IU/L for peak LH (100% sensitivity and 66.4% specificity). Conclusion Pubertal symptoms and signs generally begin before age 6 years and hormone levels are much higher than expected for pubertal stage in girls with organic CPP. Based on the present findings, cranial MRI is recommended for girls aged < 6 years, as the risk of diagnosing an organic pathology is highest in this age group. Hormone levels higher than expected for pubertal stage might be another indication for cranial MRI, regardless of patient age. Cranial MRI should be performed in girls with early-stage puberty, and an E2 level > 38 pg/mL and/or a peak LH level > 13.6 IU/L.

Ultrassonografia no auxílio do diagnóstico de vesiculite seminal em touros de corte / Ultrasonography in the diagnosis of seminal vesiculites in beef bulls

A vesiculite é um processo inflamatório das glândulas vesiculares, podendo ser unilateral ou bilateral, que acomete reprodutores. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a utilização da ultrassonografia como meio de diagnóstico precoce das alterações das vesículas seminais em touros. O presente trabalho foi realizado no município de Videira, Santa Catarina. Analisou-se um total 42 reprodutores, com média de idade de 15 meses, das raças Aberdeen Angus e Polled Hereford em semi-confinamento. Foi realizado exame clinico do estado geral dos animais e exame andrológico dos reprodutores. As amostras de sêmen para a realização do exame das características físicas do ejaculado foram obtidas por eletroejaculação. Através da palpação retal, realizou-se a avaliação das glândulas vesiculares por ultrassonografia. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada por meio de análise de variância (ANOVA) para comparação entre médias com nível de significância de 5%. A presença de vesiculite foi observada em 31 animais (73,8%) dos 42 analisados. Dos 31 animais portadores 11 animais (35,5%) apresentaram vesiculite bilateral e 20 apresentaram vesiculite unilateral (64,5%; P<0,05). Animais com perímetro escrotal maior tendem a desenvolver vesiculite unilateral, tal fato pode ser explicado pela precocidade sexual agravado pela sodomia entre os animais. O uso do ultrassom auxilia de forma preventiva a detecção de animais portadores de vesiculite em reprodutores.(AU)

The vesiculite is an inflammatory process of the vesicular glands, unilateral or bilateral, that affects bulls. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of ultrasound as a complementary method for early detection of changes in seminal vesicles in bulls. This study was conducted in the municipality of Videira, Santa Catarina. We evaluated 42 bulls, with an average age of 15 months, Aberdeen Angus and Polled Hereford breeds and in semi-confinement. Clinical animal examination and andrological exam were performed in all animals. Semen samples were obtained by electroejaculation and physical characteristics of the ejaculate were performed. Rectal palpation was performed by ultrasonography to evaluate vesicular glands changes. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) for comparison between means with significance level of 5%. The presence of vesiculitis was observed in 31 (73.8%) from the 42 analyzed bulls. Of the 31 animals, 11 animals (35.5%) presented bilateral vesiculitis and 20 showed unilateral vesiculitis (64.5%; P<0.05). Animals with a larger scrotal perimeter tend to develop unilateral vesiculitis, which can be explained by the sexual precocity observed by sodomy among animals. In this way, the use of ultrasound helps preventively to detect animals with vesiculitis in breeding animals.(AU)

Etiology and treatment of central precocious puberty

The timing of pubertal onset is occurring at younger ages. This phenomenon is associated with many environmental factors such as sufficient nutrition, stress, many kinds of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and genetic background. The loss of transcriptional repression induces kisspeptin release, resulting in pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion, which trigger pubertal onset. According to many reports, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists therapy for patients with rapidly progressive central precocious puberty is effective for improving final adult height. However, those results were obtained from the treatment of relatively young patients at earlier stages of puberty. A large cohort study investigating the environmental causes of precocious puberty as well as genetic factors is needed.

Ultrasound evaluation of leuprorelin therapeutic efficacy in girls with central precocious puberty / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective To investigate the value of ultrasound in assessing leuprorelin treatment response of girls with central precocious puberty . Methods Forty girls with central precocious puberty scheduled for leuprorelin treatment were enrolled . Ultrasound examination as well as the serum hormone level test of luteinizing hormone ( LH) and follicle stimulating hormone ( FSH) were performed prior to the treatment ,after 3 and 9 months of treatment . The correlation between uterine volume ,ovarian volume and hormone levels were analyzed . Results After 3 and 9 months of leuprorelin treatment ,both the volumes of uterus and ovary and the levels of LH and FSH were significant reduced ( all P < 0 .05) . After 3 months of leuprorelin treatment ,the reduction rate in ovarian volume was positively correlated with the reduction rate of LH and FSH ( r = 0 .335 , P = 0 .034 ; r = 0 .334 , P = 0 .035) . No correlation was found between the reduction rate of uterine volume and hormone level changes ( r = 0 .110 , P = 0 .501 ; r = 0 .257 , P =0 .109) . After 9 months of treatment ,the ovarian volume reduction rate was positively correlated with the reduction rate of LH and FSH ( r = 0 .327 , P = 0 .039 ; r = 0 .356 , P = 0 .024) ,and the uterine volume reduction rate was positively correlated with the reduction rate of LH and FSH ( r = 0 .439 , P = 0 .005 ;r =0 .433 , P = 0 .005 ) . Conclusions Leuprorelin could effectively inhibit hormone release and gonadal development in girls with central precocious puberty . Ultrasound examination , as a noninvasive and convenient method ,could dynamically monitor the volume changes of uterus and ovary ,thus reflect the development of gonadal development directly and the changes of hormone level indirectly . It could be used as a routine outpatient follow-up method after central precocious medicine treatment .

Características de Altas Habilidades/Superdotação em Aluno Precoce: um Estudo de Caso / High Abilities/Giftedness Characteristics in one Precocious Student: a Case Study

RESUMO a precocidade é um fenômeno ainda pouco estudado nacionalmente. Desse modo, considera-se relevante o empreendimento de investigações acerca de estudantes que demonstram habilidades precocemente desenvolvidas a fim de contribuir para o crescimento do conhecimento científico sobre a temática. Frente a essa problemática, o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se um aluno precoce apresentava características de altas habilidades/superdotação de acordo com literatura, em especial as que se relacionam à criatividade e à aprendizagem. Os dados foram coletados por meio de observações desse aluno em relação à leitura e escrita em situações escolares. Também foram realizadas entrevistas com seus pais. As observações foram registradas em diários de campo, ao passo que a entrevista foi gravada e integralmente transcrita. A análise ocorreu qualitativamente. Os resultados demonstraram a presença de características de altas habilidades/superdotação no comportamento do aluno e apontaram para a necessidade de atenção educacional que considere e respeite suas peculiaridades e estimule o desenvolvimento de suas potencialidades, porém, sem perder de vista suas necessidades próprias da infância.

ABSTRACT Precocity is a phenomenon still little studied nationally. Thus, investigations about students who demonstrate prematurely developed skills are considered relevant in order to contribute to the growth of scientific knowledge on the subject. In this context, the objective this study was to verify whether one precocious student presented high abilities/giftedness features according to the literature, in particular those related to creativity and learning. Data were collected through observations of this student in reading and writing school situations. Interviews were conducted with his parents. Observations were recorded in field diaries, while the interviews were recorded and transcribed in full. The analysis was qualitative. The results showed the presence of high ability/giftedness characteristics in student's behavior and pointed to the need for educational care to consider and respect his peculiarities and encourage the development of his potential, but without losing sight of his needs characteristically of childhood.

Estadio de madurez sexual en toros de la raza nelore / State of Sexual Maturity of Nelore Bulls / Estádio de maturidade sexual em toros da raça nelore

La presente investigación se planteó con el objetivo de determinar el estado de madurez sexual de toros jóvenes de la raza nelore y su relación con el perímetro escrotal y las características seminales. Se estudiaron 1985 animales con edades comprendidas entre los 19 y los 23 meses de edad, alimentados con pasturas tropicales (Brachiaria brizantha, Brachiaria decumbes y Panicum maximun) y evaluados a través de examen andrológico. Se valoraron las características físicas del eyaculado, la morfología espermática y el perímetro escrotal (PE). Tras el examen andrológico, los animales se clasificaron como aptos para la reproducción (clase andrológica 1); aptos para la reproducción en régimen de monta natural (clase 2); no aptos para la reproducción temporalmente (clase 3) y descartados (clase 5). Para comparar las medias encontradas entre las clases andrológicas se utilizaron dos pruebas: la de Tukey, con probabilidad del 5 % de error, y la de correlaciones simples de Pearson, para verificar las relaciones entre las características estudiadas. Se encontró que el 84,5 % de los toros son sexualmente maduros. El 39,75 % de los animales aptos para la reproducción presentó un PE mayor a 34 cm, y solo el 0,71 % de la población estudiada exhibió una circunferencia escrotal inferior a 28 cm. Se registraron correlaciones altas favorables entre PE y las características físicas del semen. Se concluye que el PE es una excelente característica para evaluar y seleccionar toros jóvenes de la raza nelore.

This research aimed to determine the state of sexual maturity of young Nelore bulls and its relation to scrotal circumference and seminal characteristics. 1985 animals (aged between 19 and 23 months), fed with tropical pastures (Brachiaria brizantha, Brachiaria decumbes, and Panicum maximum), were evaluated through andrological examination. Physical characteristics of the ejaculate, sperm morphology and scrotal circumference (SC) were examined. After the andrological examination, animals were classified as suitable for reproduction (andrological class 1); suitable for reproduction in natural mating system (class 2); temporarily unsuitable for reproduction (class 3); and discarded (class 5). To compare the measurements found in different andrological classes, two tests were used: the Tukey test with 5% probability of error, and simple Pearson correlations to verify the relationships between the studied characteristics. 84.5% of the bulls were found to be sexually mature. 39.75% of the animals suitable for reproduction presented a SC greater than 34 cm, and only 0.71% of the study population showed a scrotal circumference less than 28 cm. Favorable high correlations between SC and the physical characteristics of semen were evidenced. The article concludes that scrotal circumference is an excellent characteristics for evaluating and selecting young Nelore bulls.

Esta pesquisa foi proposta com o objetivo de determinar o estado de maturidade sexual de touros jovens da raça nelore e sua relação com o perímetro escrotal e as características seminais. Realizou-se um estudo com 1985 animais com idades compreendidas entre os 19 e os 23 meses de idade, alimentados com pastagens tropicais (Brachiaria brizantha, Brachiaria decumbes e Panicum maximun) e avaliados através de exame andrológico. Avaliaram-se as características físicas do ejaculado, a morfologia espermática e o perímetro escrotal (PE). Depois do exame andrológico, os animais se classificaram como aptos para a reprodução (tipo andrológica 1); aptos para a reprodução em regime de monta natural (tipo 2); não aptos para a reprodução temporariamente (tipo 3) e descartados (tipo 5). Para comparar as médias encontradas entre os tipos andrológicos se utilizaram dois testes: o de Tukey, com probabilidade de 5 % de erro, e a de correlações simples de Pearson, para verificar as relações entre as características estudadas. Encontrou-se que o 84,5 % dos touros são sexualmente maduros. O 39,75 % dos animais aptos para a reprodução apresentou um PE superior a 34 cm, e somente o 0,71 % da população estudada exibiu uma circunferência escrotal inferior a 28 cm. Registraram-se correlações altas favoráveis entre PE e as características físicas do sêmen. Conclui-se que o PE é uma excelente característica para avaliar e selecionar touros jovens da raça nelore.

Estimação de parâmetros genéticos para escores visuais e características de desenvolvimento ponderal na raça Nelore / Genetic parameter estimation for visual score and ponderal development traits in Nellore cattle

O objetivo foi avaliar a associação genética entre os escores visuais de estrutura, precocidade e musculosidade, com as características peso aos 18 meses, ganho de peso diário e o perímetro escrotal em machos Nelore. Foram utilizados 7.256 registros de animais participantes de provas de ganho de peso. As estimativas dos componentes de (co)variâncias foram obtidas por meio de Máxima Verossimilhança Restrita, empregando-se um modelo animal. Os efeitos fixos de grupo contemporâneo, idade e peso como covariável linear foram considerados; o único efeito aleatório foi o genético aditivo direto. As estimativas de herdabilidade de estrutura, precocidade e musculosidade foram: 0,30; 0,37; 0,32, respectivamente. As estimativas das correlações genéticas entre os escores variaram de 0,76 a 0,95, indicando que os escores são controlados, em grande parte, pelo mesmo grupo de genes. As estimativas das correlações genéticas dos escores visuais com as características de ganho de peso diário, peso aos 18 meses e o perímetro escrotal apresentaram valores semelhantes entre os escores 0,45 a 0,50; 0,80 a 0,83 e -0,05 a -0,03, respectivamente; indicando que a seleção para os escores trará mudanças genéticas no mesmo sentido para o peso aos 18 meses e em menor medida para o ganho de peso.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic association between visual scores of structure, finishing precocity and muscling with weight at 18 months, daily weight gain and scrotal circumference in male Nellore. A total of 7,256 records of animals participating in weight gain trials were used. The (co)variance components were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood, under an animal model. Contemporary group, age and weight as covariate linears were included as fixed effects. Additive genetic effects were the only random effect. The heritability estimates for structure, precocity and muscling were 0.30; 0.37 and 0.32 respectively. The genetic correlations between visual score were 0.76 to 0.95, indicating that the visual scores are controlled by the same set of genes, a fact making individual selection more complex. The visual scores showed similar genetic correlations with daily weight gain, weight at 18 months and scrotal circumference, ranging from 0.45 to 0.50, from 0.80 to 0.83 and from -0.05 to -0.03, respectively, indicating that individual selection for visual scores will result in genetic changes in the same direction in weight at 18 months and, to a lesser extent, in daily weight gain.

Productive performance and carcass traits of Nellore x Aberdeen Angus and Nellore x Red Angus heifers under tropical conditions / Rendimiento productivo y características de la canal de Novillas Nelore x Aberdeen Angus y Nelore x Angus Colorado en condiciones tropicales / Desempenho produtivo e características de carcaça de Novilhas Nelore x Aberdeen Angus e Nelore x Red Angus sob condições tropicais

Background: Angus breed strains (Black and Red) perform differently under tropical conditions. Objective: to evaluate differences among F1 Nellore x Aberdeen Angus and F1 Nellore x Red Angus regarding productive performance and carcass traits under tropical conditions. Methods: forty-one heifers were used to assess the effect of both genetic groups on productive performance and carcass traits. The performance parameters evaluated were final live body weight and average daily gain. The carcass traits were: 1) hot and cold carcass weight and cold carcass dressing percentage, 2) carcass conformation and fatting (both ranging from 1 to 5), 3) back fat thickness, 4) rib eye area, 5) cutability, and 6) total usable meat, and commercial cut yield. Animals were divided in two groups and fed Megathyrsus maximum grass in three pens for 28 days. After this period, animals were relocated in a feedlot system for 84 days, and weighed at the beginning and at the end. All data were subjected to analysis of variance with initial live weight as a covariate. Results: differences were found between groups for productive performance and carcass traits such as back fat, and rib eye area. However, no difference was observed for conformation, fatting, ease of cutability, total usable meat, and Brazilian commercial cuts. Conclusion: F1 Nellore x Aberdeen Angus heifers had increased growth performance and carcass traits under tropical conditions.

Antecedentes: las variedades de la raza Angus (Negro o Rojo) pueden exhibir un rendimiento diferente en condiciones tropicales. Objetivo: el objetivo fue evaluar las diferencias entre los grupos genéticos de bovinos Nelore x Angus F1 y F1 Nelore x Angus Colorado en cuanto al rendimiento de la canal y las características productivas en condiciones tropicales. Métodos: se utilizaron 41 novillas para evaluar los grupos genéticos con respecto al crecimiento y características de la canal. Como parámetros de rendimiento productivo se evaluó el peso vivo final y la ganancia diaria, y para características de la canal: 1) peso en canal caliente, fría y rendimiento, 2) conformación de la canal, 3) el espesor de grasa, 4) área del ojo del lomo, 5) cortabilidad y 6) carne total utilizable y cortes comerciales brasileños. Los animales fueron divididos en dos grupos y alimentados con pasto Megathyrsus maximum bajo pastoreo rotacional en tres corrales durante 28 días. Luego fueron trasladados 84 dias a un sistema de confinamiento, siendo pesados al inicio y al final del tratamiento. Todos los datos fueron sometidos a análisis de varianza con el peso vivo inicial como covariable. Resultados: hubo diferencias en el rendimiento productivo y características de la canal, en espesor de grasa dorsal y área del ojo del lomo. Sin embargo, no hubo diferencia en la conformación, el acabado, cortabilidad, la carne utilizable total y de los cortes brasileños. Conclusión: novillas F1 Nellore x Aberdeen Angus presentaron mayor rendimiento y características de la canal de crecimiento en condiciones tropicales.

Antecedentes: animais da raça Angus podem apresentar desempenho diferente de acordó com a linha (Red Angus ou Black Angus). Objetivo: objetivou avaliar os grupos genéticos bovinos F1 Nelore x Angus Aberdeen e Nelore x Red Angus quanto ao desempenho produtivo e características de carcaça em condições tropicais. Métodos: foram utilizadas quarenta e uma novilhas para avaliar o grupo genético em relação ao desempenho de crescimento e características de carcaça. Como parâmetros de desempenho produtivo foram avaliados o peso vivo final e ganho diário e para características de carcaça: 1) peso de carcaça quente, fria e rendimento, 2) conformação da carcaça e de acabamento, 3) espessura de gordura, 4) área de olho de lombo, 5) retalhabilidade e 6) porção comestível total e rendimento de cortes comerciais brasileiros. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos e alimentados em pastagem de Megathyrsus maximum sob pastejo rotacionado em três piquetes por 28 dias e posteriomente confinados por 84 dias, onde foram pesados no início e no final do tratamento. Todos os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância com o peso vivo inicial como covariável. Resultados: houve diferenças em desempenho produtivo e características de carcaça, a espessura de gordura subcutânea e a área de olho de lombo. No entanto, não houve diferença para conformação, acabamento, cutabilidade e rendimento dos cortes brasileiros. Conclusão: novilhas Nelore x Angus Aberdeen apresentaram melhores caracterististicas de carcaça e desempenho.

Características reprodutivas e suas associações com outras características de importância econômica na raça Nelore / Reproductive traits and their associations with other economically important traits in Nelore

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estimar as herdabilidades (h²) e as correlações genéticas (r g) entre idade ao primeiro parto (IPP) e primeiro intervalo de partos (PIEP) e outras características como peso (PS) ao ano (A) e ao sobreano (S), altura do posterior (ALT) e perímetro escrotal (PE450) em animais da raça Nelore. Os parâmetros genéticos foram estimados em uma análise multicaracterística por modelo animal, utilizando-se a inferência bayesiana via algoritmo de "Gibbs Sampling". Os parâmetros genéticos estimados sugerem a existência de variabilidade genética para IPP (h² = 0,26), sendo que a seleção para a diminuição da IPP de fêmeas Nelore deve responder à seleção individual, sem causar antagonismo do valor genético dos animais para PS (r g = -0,22 (A) e -0,44 (S)) e PE450 (r g = 0,02). A seleção para a diminuição da IPP, no longo prazo, pode levar a um aumento da ALT dos animais, embora essa associação seja relativamente baixa (-0,35). A estimativa de herdabilidade a posteriori para a característica PIEP foi baixa, 0,11±0,03. As r g entre PIEP e as demais características estudadas indicam que a seleção para essas características de crescimento não afetará o PIEP.

Heritability (h²) and genetic correlations (r g) were estimated between reproductive traits such as age at first calving (AFC), first calving interval (FCI) and other economically relevant traits, i.e., weight (W) at year (Y) and at 18 months of age (S), scrotal circumference (SC), and hip height (HH) in Nelore cattle. The genetic parameters were estimated in a multiple-trait analysis, with animal models using the Bayesian inference by Gibbs Sampling algorithm. The genetic parameters estimated in this work suggest the existence of genetic variability for AFC (h² = 0.26), where the selection for the reduction of Nelore females AFC should respond to mass selection, without causing genetic antagonism in the selection of W (r g = -0,22 (Y) and -0,44 (S)), and SC (r g = 0,02). The selection for the AFC in the long term could lead to an increase in the animal's frame, although this association is relatively low (-0.35). The posteriori heritability estimate for FCI was low, 0.11±0.03. The r g between FCI and the other traits studied indicate that selection for these growth traits will not affect the FCI.

Desenvolvimento reprodutivo de tourinhos Gir selecionados para produção de leite / Reproductive development of Gyr young bulls selected for milk production

O estudo visou identificar tourinhos Gir precoces e não precoces quanto à puberdade e avaliar diferenças durante seu desenvolvimento reprodutivo. Peso vivo e perímetro escrotal foram mensurados mensalmente junto com a coleta e a avaliação física e morfológica do sêmen de 16 animais, dos 13 aos 23 meses de idade. Animais precoces foram mais leves na pré-puberdade e apresentaram menores idades à puberdade e à maturidade sexual - 17,0 e 18,7 meses -, respectivamente, - em relação aos não precoces - 19,2 e 20,5 meses, respectivamente. A motilidade aumentou na pré-puberdade dois meses mais cedo nos animais precoces - 1,75 por cento a 18,4 por cento dos 14 aos 17 meses - em relação aos não precoces - 2,5 por cento a 12,4 por cento dos 15 aos 18 meses de idade. Registrou-se aumento mais cedo da concentração espermática em animais precoces, a qual foi maior - 660 milhões/mL - aos 23 meses em relação aos animais não precoces -66.7 milhões/mL. As diferenças observadas no desenvolvimento dos dois grupos foram favoráveis aos animais precoces e indicam que a seleção para a maturidade sexual precoce é indicada para a antecipação da fase reprodutiva de touros Gir.

This study aimed to identify precocious and non-precocious Gyr young bulls according to puberty and evaluate differences during their reproductive development. Live weight and scrotal circumference were measured monthly with collection and evaluation of semen samples from 16 animals, from 13 to 23 months of age. Precocious animals were lighter at the pre-puberty period and younger at puberty and sexual maturity, 17.0 and 18.7 months, respectively, regarding non-precocious, 19.2 and 20.5 months, respectively. Sperm motility increased during pre-puberty two months earlier for precocious animals, 1.75 percent to 18.4 percent from 14 to 17 months, regarding non-precocious, 2.5 percent to 12.4 percent from 16 to 18 months. Sperm concentration increase occurred earlier in precocious animals, and was higher, 669 million/mL, at 23 months of age in relation to non-precocious animals, 66.7 million/mL. The differences in reproductive development of both groups were favorable for precocious animals and indicate that the selection for precocious sexual maturity is advised to anticipate the reproductive phase of Gyr bulls.

Características zootécnicas de touros da raça Nelore submetidos a um programa de seleção para precocidade sexual / Zootecnic characteristics of Nelore bulls subjected to a selection program for sexual precocity

Foram utilizados 24 tourinhos da raça Nelore (Bos taurus indicus) divididos em três grupos de oito animais cada, de acordo com o perímetro escrotal (PE): Grupo 1 (G1) - PE acima de 22,8cm; Grupo 2 (G2) - PE entre 21,6 e 22,6cm; e Grupo 3 (G3) - PE entre 20,1 e 21,2cm. Para a análise da área de olho do lombo (AOL) e espessura de gordura (EG), os 24 animais foram divididos em dois grupos : G1 (mais precoces) e G2 (menos precoces), classificados de acordo com a idade em que cada animal atingiu a puberdade. O G1 apresentou maior PE à puberdade e menor peso à desmama em comparação ao G2 e ao G3. As medidas de AOL não apresentaram diferenças entre os grupos G1 e G2. Os animais do G1 atingiram a precocidade sexual em idade menor, enquanto a deposição de gordura maior e mais cedo ocorreu nos animais do G2, considerados mais tardios. A utilização de características zootécnicas em um programa de seleção para precocidade sexual pode constituir um avanço para a produtividade pecuária, aumentando os ganhos genéticos e diminuindo os custos de produção.

Twenty-four Nelore bulls (Bos taurus indicus) were divided in three groups of eight animals each according to EP: Group 1 - EP above average (EP>22.8cm); Group 2 - EP 5 percent below average (EP between 21.6 and 22.6cm); and Group 3 - EP from 10 to 5 percent below average (EP between 20.1 and 21.2cm). For the AOL and EG analysis the 24 animals were divided in two groups: G1 (more precocious) and G2 (less precocious), classified according to the age in which each animal reached puberty. G1 presented greater EP at puberty and less weight in comparison to G2 and G3. The AOL measures did not present difference between G1 and G2 groups. The animals in G1 reached puberty at a younger age, while the fat deposition occurred in G2. The use of productive characteristics in a program to select animals for sexual precocity can constitute a great advance for cattle productivity, increasing the genetic gain and decreasing production costs.

Relação entre polimorfismo do gene do hormônio do crescimento e características de precocidade em novilhas da raça Nelore / Relationship between polymorphism of growth hormone and precocity traits in Nellore heifers

Avaliaram-se as relações entre o polimorfismo do gene do hormônio do crescimento (GH) e as características de precocidade, em novilhas da raça Nelore. Amostras de sangue periférico foram obtidas de 181 animais de três rebanhos distintos do estado da Bahia, nas quais foi realizada a extração de DNA e a amplificação por PCR, seguidas por digestão com enzima de restrição AluI. Os fragmentos resultantes da digestão enzimática foram analisados em gel de agarose 2 por cento para determinação dos respectivos genótipos. A frequência do alelo Leu nas amostras analisadas foi estimada em 100 por cento. Em decorrência da alta incidência de homozigose para o alelo Leu, sugere-se que o restriction fragment lenght polymorphism AluI do gene GH não possa ser considerado como marcador molecular para precocidade sexual em novilhas Nelore nesses rebanhos.

The relationships between polymorphism of growth hormone gene (GH) and precocity traits in Nellore heifers were evaluated. A total of 181 animals from three different farms of Bahia state, Brazil, were blood sampled. The DNA of each animal was extracted, amplified by PCR, and digested by "AluI" restriction enzyme, and the resultant fragments were analyzed in 2 percent agarose gel for genotype identification. The frequency of Leu allele in the analyzed samples was estimated in 100 percent. Due to the high incidence of homozygose for the Leu allele, it is suggested that the restriction fragment lenght polymorphism AluI of GH gene can not be considered as a molecular marker for sexual precocity in Nellore heifers of those herds.

Genetic Variations of GNRH1, GNRHR and GPR54 Genes in Korean Girls with Central Precocious Puberty / 대한소아내분비학회지

PURPOSE: Central precocious puberty (CPP) is defined as any sign of secondary sexual maturation appears at an age lower than two standard deviations of the mean for the average age. This process is driven by activation of hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Many genes expressed in the hypothalamus have been identified to play an important role in the onset and the progression of puberty. In this study, the GNRH1, its receptor (GNRHR), and kisspeptin receptor (GPR54) genes were scanned to investigate sequence alterations and their distribution in Korean girls with CPP. METHODS: One hundred and one Korean girls with CPP were recruited as the case group and 51 normal Korean women as the control group. The DNAs were extracted and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the products were sequenced directly. Statistical analyses were performed, and P values of C in GNRH1, and c.1091T > A in GPR54. However, the other two (c.196C > T in GNRH1 and c.546T > C in GNRHR) were novel. There was no polymorphism that was significantly associated with early onset or rapid progression of puberty. CONCLUSION: Although the size of our study population was relatively small, simple genetic variations in GNRH1, GNRHR, and GPR54 genes are not likely to be a substantial factor directly associated with the onset and progression of puberty.

Genetic Variations of GNRH1, GNRHR and GPR54 Genes in Korean Girls with Central Precocious Puberty / 대한소아내분비학회지

PURPOSE: Central precocious puberty (CPP) is defined as any sign of secondary sexual maturation appears at an age lower than two standard deviations of the mean for the average age. This process is driven by activation of hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Many genes expressed in the hypothalamus have been identified to play an important role in the onset and the progression of puberty. In this study, the GNRH1, its receptor (GNRHR), and kisspeptin receptor (GPR54) genes were scanned to investigate sequence alterations and their distribution in Korean girls with CPP. METHODS: One hundred and one Korean girls with CPP were recruited as the case group and 51 normal Korean women as the control group. The DNAs were extracted and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the products were sequenced directly. Statistical analyses were performed, and P values of C in GNRH1, and c.1091T > A in GPR54. However, the other two (c.196C > T in GNRH1 and c.546T > C in GNRHR) were novel. There was no polymorphism that was significantly associated with early onset or rapid progression of puberty. CONCLUSION: Although the size of our study population was relatively small, simple genetic variations in GNRH1, GNRHR, and GPR54 genes are not likely to be a substantial factor directly associated with the onset and progression of puberty.

Prediction of 1 Year Growth in Girls with Precocious Puberty with GnRH Agonist Treatment by Measurement of Growth Velocity at 3 Months after Treatment / 대한소아내분비학회지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of growth velocity at 3 months after gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH) agonist treatment as a predictive value of 1 year growth velocity after treatment in girls with precocious puberty. METHODS: We studied 30 Korean girls with precocious puberty whose chronologic and bone age were less than 9 years and 11 years old, respectively at diagnosis. They treated with a 4 week interval GnRH agonist subcutaneous injections for at least more than 1 year. The patients who were treated with growth hormone simultaneously excluded for this study. Data were collected from chart review retrospectively. We measured heights and calculated growth velocities of the subjects at 3 months and 1 year after GnRH agonist treatment. RESULTS: The mean chronologic age and bone age of the subjects were 8.3 +/- 0.8 year and 10.4 +/- 0.6 years, respectively. The growth velocity at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 1 year after GnRH agonist treatment were 7.1 +/- 2.6, 6.6 +/- 2.1, 5.7 +/- 1.3 and 5.8 +/- 0.9 cm/yr, respectively. The positive correlation between the growth velocity at 3 months and 6 months, 9 months, 1 year after GnRH agonist treatment were shown(P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSION: In this study, the growth velocity at 1 year after GnRH agonist treatment may be predicted by the growth velocity at 3 months after treatment. The patient whose growth velocity at 3 months after GnRH agnoist treatment was low would be needed to observe the growth pattern carefully and to consider combined growth hormone treatment, if needed. It may be deserve further studies to improve final height in patients with central precocious puberty in various conditions.

Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Stimulation Test for Precocious Puberty / 대한진단검사의학회지

BACKGROUND: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation test is the gold standard to identify central precocious puberty (CPP). This test requires multiple blood samples at different time points to measure gonadotropin levels, and is therefore expensive, time-consuming, and uncomfortable for patients. We aimed to simplify the GnRH stimulation test to require fewer blood samples. METHODS: A study of 166 girls with precocious puberty was undertaken. Blood samples were obtained at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after GnRH administration, and the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured. For each parameter, the sensitivities and specificities were estimated and ROC curves were constructed. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-eight patients (77.1%) were diagnosed for CPP. Peak LH levels were achieved 30 min after GnRH stimulation in patients with CPP. Further, 98.4% of the 45-min samples were diagnostic for CPP, and the cumulative frequency of LH values of > or =5 IU/L was 100% at 45 min. Using this cut-off value for LH, the ROC curve for LH at 45 min showed the highest sensitivity (98.4%) and specificity (100%) in the diagnosis of CPP. CONCLUSIONS: Values of LH measured from a single blood sample obtained at 45 min in the GnRH stimulation test may be adequate for the diagnosis of CPP. Two samples, taken at 30 and 45 min after stimulation, were able to accurately diagnose CPP in 100% of the patients in this study.

Fatores de correção para perímetro escrotal ao sobreano para tourinhos mestiços Aberdeen Angus x Nelore / Adjustment factors for scrotal circumference at yearling for crossbred Aberdeen Angus x Nelore young bulls

Obtiveram-se fatores de correção (FC) para o perímetro escrotal ao sobreano (PES) para os efeitos de grupo genético (GG), heterozigose individual (HI), peso ao sobreano (PS) e idade do animal à pesagem de sobreano (IDS), utilizando-se registros de peso corporal e medidas de perímetro escrotal obtidos de 11.662 tourinhos das raças Aberdeen Angus, Nelore e de produtos do cruzamento entre elas, criados nas regiões Sul, Sudeste e Centro-Oeste do Brasil, nascidos entre 1987 e 2001. Os coeficientes de regressão que geraram os FC foram estimados pelo método dos quadrados mínimos, adotando um modelo que incluiu os efeitos de grupo de contemporâneos ao sobreano (GC), GG, heterozigose materna (HM), HI, PS e IDS. Todos os efeitos incluídos no modelo foram significativos (P<0,01) sobre PES. A média observada e respectivo desvio-padrão para PES foi 29,90±3,55cm. Foi observado efeito polinomial de segunda ordem de PS sobre PES. Foram verificados ganhos decrescentes no PES à medida que o POS aumentou, ou seja, os maiores acréscimos foram observados em animais recém desmamados. O efeito linear de PS sobre PES foi 0,06695804±0,00345000cm/kg, e o efeito quadrático, 0,00005252±0,00000508cm/kg². Para IDS o efeito linear foi de 0,02176450±0,00038568cm/dia. Aumentos de HI e HM promoveram incremento no PES e de GG, decréscimos. Os fatores incluídos no modelo foram importantes fontes de variação que devem ser considerados no ajuste de PES para seleção de tourinhos para melhora da precocidade sexual.

Adjustment factors (AF) for scrotal circumference at yearling (SCY) were figured out for effects of genetic group (GG), individual heterozygosis (IH), yearling weight (YW), and age of the animal at yearling weight (AYW) using body weight and scrotal circumference records from 11,662 Aberdeen Angus, Nelore, and their crosses. The animals were born from 1987 to 2001 and were raised in the South East and Central West Regions of Brazil. The regression coefficients to obtain AF were estimated by least squares means method. The model included the fixed effects of contemporaneous group at yearling (CG), maternal heterozygosis (MH), IH, and the covariates YW (linear and quadratic effects) and AYW (linear effect). All the factors included in the model showed significant effects (P<0.01) on SCY. The mean and standard deviation for SCY were 29.90±3.55cm. Quadratic effect of YW on SCY was also observed. Decreases in SCY with the increase in YW was found. High SCY was observed immediately after post-weaning. The YW effects on SCY were 0.06695804±0.00345000cm/kg (linear effect) and -0.00005252±0.00000508cm/kg² (quadratic effect). The AYW linear effect on SCY was 0.02176450±0.00038568cm/day. The factors included in the model are important sources of variation to adjust SCY for the selection of young bulls in order to improve sexual precocity.

Observed Trends for an Earlier Onset of Puberty: When is the Need for Treatment Indicated?

Globally, there is a secular trend toward earlier puberty and an increased final height at adulthood. In Korea, there is a trend toward an earlier menarche in girls but insufficient data to evaluate secular trends in boys. A significant increase in height was observed in Koreans aged 0~20 years during 1965~2005. This trend has diminished, but growth maturation has accelerated in infants and young children. Genetic and environmental factors including nutritional status (e.g., obesity) contribute to these changes. Central precocious puberty results from the accelerated activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Although the cut-off age is controversial, clinical evaluations should be conducted on girls with pubertal onset occurring younger than 8 years, and on boys younger than 9 years at least until further prospective studies define the norms for Korea. Management of precocious puberty depends on the underlying etiology, as accelerated puberty can lead to a reduced final adult height. Depot forms of GnRH agonists (GnRHas) are the standard treatment for some patients with central precocious puberty. These agents can help restore the normal adult height in both girls and boys when it might be compromised by rapidly progressive precocious puberty. However, in girls with slowly progressive precocious puberty or with the onset of puberty at 8~9.9 years of age (early normal puberty), GnRHa treatment might offer no benefit for attaining normal height. There is little evidence on whether psychosocial problems are associated with precocious puberty or are improved by GnRHa treatment.

Parâmetros genéticos para idade ao primeiro parto estimados por diferentes modelos para rebanhos da raça Nelore / Genetic parameters for age at first calving estimated by different models for Nellore breed herds

Com objetivo de estimar parâmetros genéticos e estudar a utilização de diferentes efeitos em avaliações genéticas para idade ao primeiro parto (IPP) por diferentes modelos, foram utilizados registros de IPP de animais da raça Nelore, nascidos entre os anos de 1990 e 2005. Foram considerados os seguintes modelos (M): M1, incluindo o efeito fixo de GC1 (constituído pelos animais nascidos na mesma fazenda e ano), além da covariável, peso aos 365 dias de idade (efeito linear e quadrático), totalizando 24.263 registros de IPP; M2, considerando os efeitos fixos de GC1, ano e estação de parição, totalizando 59.792 registros de IPP e M3, incluindo os efeitos fixos de GC2 (agrupando os animais nascidos na mesma fazenda, ano e que conceberam no mesmo manejo reprodutivo), ano e estação de parição, totalizando 59.792 registros de IPP. As estimativas dos componentes de variância e herdabilidade e os valores genéticos (VG) foram obtidos pelo método da máxima verossimilhança restrita, com a inclusão da matriz de parentesco disponível. As diferenças esperadas na progênie (DEPs) foram obtidas dividindo os VG por dois. Após a obtenção desses resultados, foram realizadas correlações entre os VG e o ranqueamento das DEPs dos reprodutores para IPP, utilizando-se o procedimento PROC CORR (SAS, 2003). Ao se considerar o ano e a estação de parto nos modelos de análise (M2 e M3), esses produziram um maior R², indicando que tais modelos conseguiram explicar, em maior grau, as diferenças existentes entre os animais para IPP. As herdabilidades estimadas foram de baixa magnitude (0,14 e 0,15). As correlações entre os VG obtidas por diferentes modelos foram 0,73 (M1 x M2); 0,91 (M2 x M3) e 0,66 (M1 x M3).

With the objective of estimate genetic parameters and study the utilization of different effects on the genetic evolution for the age of the first calving (AFC) by different models, they were used AFC records from Nellore breed animals, born from 1990 to 2005. They were considered the following models (M): M1, including the fixed effect of the contemporary group (CG), CG1 (grouping the animals that were born at the same farm and year), besides the co variable, weight at 365 days of age (linear and quadratic effects), totalizing 24,263 records of AFC; M2, considering the effects of CG1, year and season of the calving, totalizing 59,792 records of AFC and M3, including effects CG2 (grouping the animals born at the same farm, year and submitted at the same reproductive management), year and season of calving totalizing 59,792 records of AFC. The components of variance and Genetic Value (GV) were obtained by Restricted Maximun Likelihood Method, with the inclusion for the relationship matrix. The Differences Expected on the Progeny (DEPs) were obtained by dividing the GV by two, after this they were estimated the correlations between GV and ranks of the reproductor's DEPs for AFC, utilizing the procedure CORR (SAS, 2003). While considering year and season of calving in the analysis models (M2 and M3), it was produced a bigger R², indicating that those models could explain, in a larger scale, the existing differences between the animals for AFC. The heritabilities estimated were of low magnitude (0,14 and 0,15). The correlations between the GV obtained by the different models were .73 (M1 x M2); .91 (M2 x M3) and .66 (M1 x M3).