Effect of growth rates on hormonal and pubertal status in Nellore heifers early weaned.

This study aimed to determine the effect of growth rates on the hormonal status and puberty onset. Forty-eight Nellore heifers were weaned at 3.0 ± 0.1 (means ± standard error of the mean) months old were blocked according to body weight at weaning (84 ± 2 kg) and randomly assigned to treatments. The treatments were arranged in 2 × 2 factorial according to the feeding program. The first program was high (H; 0.79 kg/day) or control (C; 0.45 kg/day) average daily gain (ADG) from 3rd to 7th month of age (growing phase I). The second program was also high (H; 0.70 kg/day) or control (C; 0.50 kg/day) ADG from the 7th month until puberty (growing phase II), resulting in four treatments: HH (n = 13), HC (n = 10), CH (n = 13), and CC (n = 12). To achieve desired gains, heifers in high ADG program were fed ad libitum dry matter intake (DMI), and the control group was offered around 50% of ad libitum DMI of high group. All heifers received a diet with similar composition. Puberty was assessed weekly by ultrasound examination, and the largest follicle diameter was evaluated every month. Blood samples were collected to quantify leptin, insulin growth factor-1 (IGF1) and luteinizing hormone (LH). At 7 months of age, heifers in high ADG were 35 kg heavier than the control. Heifers in the HH had greater DMI compared with CH in phase II. The puberty rate at 19 months old was greater in the HH treatment (84%) than in the CC (23%), but there was no difference between HC (60%) and CH (50%) treatments. Heifers from HH treatment had greater serum leptin concentration than others at 13 months old, and serum leptin was greater in HH compared with CH and CC at 18 months old. High heifers in phase I had greater serum IGF1 concentration than the control. In addition, HH heifers had a greater diameter of the largest follicle than CC. There was no interaction between phases and age in any variable relative to the LH profile. However, the heifers' age was the main factor that increased the frequency of LH pulse. In conclusion, increasing ADG was associated with greater ADG, serum leptin and IGF-1 concentration, and puberty onset; however, LH concentration was affected mainly by age of the animal. The increasing growth rate at younger age made heifers more efficient.

Implications of growth rates and compensatory growth on puberty attainment in Nellore heifers.

This study investigated the effects of growth rates and compensatory growth on puberty attainment in Nellore heifers. Nellore heifers (n = 120), weaned at 8 ± 0.75 mo of age, were blocked by sire and BW (180 ± 8.6 kg) and assigned randomly to receive 1 of 4 treatments over a 10-mo period. Treatments included ad libitum feeding (high gain, HG), feed intake to gain 0.6 kg/d (medium gain, MG), restricted feeding (0.2 kg/d) for 4 mo followed by ad libitum feeding for 6 mo (compensatory gain, CG), and alternating periods of ad libitum and restricted feeding for 2 mo each throughout the trial (alternated CG, ACG). Puberty was assessed weekly by transrectal ultrasonography. Blood samples were collected at 8, 11, and 18 mo of age and at puberty to determine circulating concentrations of leptin. At 18 mo of age, nonpubertal heifers were treated with a puberty induction protocol using an intravaginal progestin device. There was no treatment effect (P = 0.17) on the percentage of heifers pubertal by 18 mo of age (HG: 66, MG: 40, CG: 58, and ACG: 52%), BW at puberty, and age at puberty. However, HG heifers had higher ADG (P < 0.01), dry matter intake (P < 0.01), and leptin concentrations (P = 0.03) than heifers from other groups. The response to the puberty induction protocol was similar (P = 0.90) among treatments. Regarding sire effects (genetic effects), there was an effect (P = 0.03) on the percentage of heifers pubertal by 18 mo of age and a tendency (P = 0.07) of sire effect in response to the puberty induction protocol. Compensatory growth appears to be an effective managerial approach to decrease feeding costs and stimulate puberty in Nellore heifers.

A combination of nutrition and genetics is able to reduce age at puberty in Nelore heifers to below 18 months.

Nelore heifers usually begin their reproductive life at ⩾24 months of age mainly due to suboptimal nutritional conditions and genetics. This study aimed to determine the effect of expected progeny difference (EPD) for age at first calving and average daily gain (ADG) on puberty in Nelore (Bos taurus indicus) heifers. A total of 58 weaned heifers (initial BW=174±6 kg; age=9±1 months) were allocated into 28 feedlot pens. Heifers were born from four sires, of which two had low EPD for age at first calving (L; n=33) and two had high EPD for age at first calving (H; n=25). Then, heifers of each EPD were randomly assigned to high ADG (HG; 0.7 kg) or low ADG (LG; 0.3 kg), resulting in four treatments: heifers from L sires were submitted to either HG (LHG; n=17) or LG (LLG; n=16), and heifers from H sires were submitted to either HG (HHG; n=12), or LG (HLG; n=13). The HG heifers were fed a 75% grain diet, whereas the LG heifers received 93% of forage in their diet. Blood samples were collected at 9, 14, 18, 24 and 28 months of age for IGF1 and leptin determination. There was a treatment effect (P<0.01) on the proportion of heifers that attained puberty by 18 (62%, 0%, 0% and 0%), 24 (100%, 6%, 54% and 0%) or 36 (100%, 100%, 100% and 38%) months of age for LHG, LLG, HHG and HLG treatments, respectively. In addition, mean age at puberty was different across treatments (P<0.01). Heifers from the LHG achieved puberty at the earliest age when compared with cohorts from other treatments (18.1, 28.9, 23.9 and 34.5 months for LHG, LLG, HHG and HLG, respectively). Serum IGF1 concentrations were higher for L heifers compared with H cohorts at 9, 14, 18, 24 and 28 months of age (P<0.01; treatment×age interaction), whereas circulating leptin concentrations were higher (P<0.01; age effect) as heifers became older, regardless of the treatments. In conclusion, only Nelore heifers with favorable genetic merit for age at first calving were able to attain puberty by 18 months of age. In heifers with unfavorable genetic merit for age at first calving, supplementary feeding to achieve high ADG was unable to shift the age at puberty below 24 months.

Impact of estradiol cypionate prior to TAI and progesterone supplementation at initial diestrus on ovarian and fertility responses in beef cows.

In cattle, early diestrus progesterone (P4) supplementation modulates endometrial function to exert pro- and anti-pregnancy establishment effects; specifically, P4 stimulates conceptus growth, but also induces early onset of luteolysis. This paradoxical effect is frequently related to the inconsistent fertility outcomes that result from P4 supplementation experiments. Aim was to investigate the impact of exogenous estradiol (E2) treatment at the end of timed fixed AI (TAI) on frequency of early luteolysis and pregnancy of beef cows supplemented with P4. Ovulations (D0 of study) of suckled multiparous (n = 643) and primiparous (n = 193) Nelore cows (Bos indicus) were synchronized with an E2/P4-based protocol for TAI and assigned to receive 1.0 mg of estradiol cypionate (CP) or nothing (NoCP) on D-2 and 150 mg of injectable long-acting P4 (iP4) or Placebo (NoiP4) on D4 on a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. On D15, the iP4 supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the frequency of early luteolysis (NoCP + iP4: 26.0%; [13/50] vs. NoCP: 8.0% [4/50]), but CP prevented this effect (CP + iP4: 8.3% [4/48] and CP: 6.4% [3/47]). The CP improved pregnancy/AI (P/AI) of multiparous (CP: 51.6% [165/320] and NoCP: 35.0% [113/323]; P < 0.001) and primiparous cows (CP: 40.4% [40/99] and NoCP: 24.5% [23/94], P < 0.05), regardless of iP4 treatment. The iP4 supplementation affected P/AI of CP and NoCP treated cows according to follicle size at TAI. For the CP treated cows, the iP4 supplementation improved P/AI of sub-populations of cows with follicles <12.35 mm (42.0% [34/81] vs. 53.1% [34/64]), while for NoCP treated cows, the improvements occurred in subpopulations of cows with follicles ≥12.35 mm (46.1% [35/76] vs. 58.7% [37/63]). In conclusion, strategies associating E2 and P4 supplementation decrease the incidence of early onset of luteolysis and improve P/AI of suckled beef cows with smaller follicles.

Comparative efficacy of exogenous eCG and progesterone on endogenous progesterone and pregnancy in Holstein cows submitted to timed artificial insemination.

The objectives were to evaluate the effects of the administration of either eCG or progesterone (P4) alone or combined on endogenous P4 concentrations and pregnancy per AI in lactating dairy cows. Cows received a P4-releasing intravaginal device (PRID) and estradiol benzoate on D-8. The PRID was removed and a PGF2α injection was given on D-3. An estradiol cypionate was given on D-2 and TAI was performed on D0. On D-2, cows were randomly allocated to treatments in a 2×2 factorial design: Control-saline solution on the D-2 and D+3 (n=104), eCG - 400IU eCG on D-2 (n=93), P4 - 600mg of P4 on D+3 (n=106), and eCG+P4 - 400IU eCG on D-2 and 600mg of P4 on D+3 (n=95). Blood samples were collected on days three, four, and thirteen and pregnancy diagnoses were performed at 32 and 46 days after AI. There was no interaction between eCG and P4 injection. Cows treated with eCG and with P4 injection had higher serum P4 on Day +4. On Day +13 serum P4 was lower in eCG-untreated primiparous cows (Interaction eCG×parity). Cows with serum P4<4.57ng/mL on Day +13 had lower probability to be pregnant on day 32. P/AI on days 32 and 46 and embryonic losses were not influenced by eCG and P4 injection. In conclusion, the addition of 400IU of eCG on D-2 and/or 600mg of P4 on D+3 to the present TAI protocol did not increase P/AI.

Corpus luteum development and function after supplementation of long-acting progesterone during the early luteal phase in beef cattle.

Strategic supplementation of P4 may be used to increase conception rates in cattle, but timing of supplementation in relation to ovulation, mass of supplementary P4 and formulation of the P4-containing supplement has not been determined for beef cattle. Effects of supplementation of long-acting progesterone (P4) on Days 2 or 3 post-ovulation on development, function and regression of corpus luteum (CL) were studied in beef cattle. Cows were synchronized with an oestradiol/P4-based protocol and treated with 150 or 300 mg of long-acting P4 on Day 2 or 3 post-ovulation (6-7 cows/group). Colour-doppler ultrasound scanning and blood sample collection were performed from Day 2-21.5. Plasma P4 concentrations were greater (p < 0.05) from Day 2.5-5.5 in the Day 2-treated groups and from Day 3.5-5.5 in the Day 3-treated cows than in the control group. CL area and blood flow during Day 2-8.5 did not differ (p > 0.05) among groups, suggesting no effect of P4 treatment on luteal development. The frequency of cows that began luteolysis before Day 15 was greater (p < 0.04) in cows treated with 300 mg than in the controls, but there were no differences between non-treated and 150 mg-treated cows. The interval from pre-treatment ovulation to functional and structural luteolysis was shorter (p < 0.01) in the combined P4-treated groups than in the control cows. In conclusion, was showed for the first time that long-acting P4 supplementation on Day 2 or 3 post-ovulation increases P4 concentrations for ≥3 day, has no effect on luteal development, but anticipates the beginning of luteolysis in beef cattle.

Nursing regimens: effects on body condition, return to postpartum ovarian cyclicity in Santa Ines ewes, and performance of lambs.

The effects of nursing regimens on the body condition, onset of ovarian cyclicity postpartum and weaning weight of lambs were assessed in Santa Ines ewes. Thirty-two ewes were blocked according to parity, number of lambs, and body weight at lambing and within each block randomly allocated to treatments: continuous nursing (CN), controlled nursing (CN2) with two daily feedings for an hour after the 10th day postpartum, or early weaning (EW) with total separation from the lambs after the 10th day. The animals were evaluated from the 12th day postpartum until the first estrus or until 60th day. The dry matter and nutrients intake did not differ among treatments (P>0.05) but did differ over time (P<0.01). The weight, body condition score, serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids and prolactin, the percentages of ewes in estrus, of ewes that ovulated within 60th day and had ovulation silent, the period from lambing to estrus, ovulation and follicle with a diameter ≥5mm and the maximum follicular diameter did not differ (P>0.05) among the treatments. The percentage of ovulation until 30th day was greater (P<0.05) in the EW group. The percentage of short luteal phases was higher in the CN2 and EW groups (P=0.07) and normal luteal phases were higher in the CN group (P=0.01). Lamb weight weaning was lower in the EW group (P<0.05). It is possible to use CN to obtain lambing periods less than eight months in Santa Ines ewes, with the advantages of simpler management and higher lamb weaning weights.

Effects of two estradiol esters (benzoate and cypionate) on the induction of synchronized ovulations in Bos indicus cows submitted to a timed artificial insemination protocol.

The effects of estradiol benzoate (EB) and estradiol cypionate (EC) on induction of ovulation after a synchronized LH surge and on fertility of Bos indicus females submitted to timed AI (TAI) were evaluated. In Experiment 1, ovariectomized Nelore heifers were used to evaluate the effect of EB (n = 5) and EC (n = 5) on the circulating LH profile. The LH surge timing (19.6 and 50.5 h; P = 0.001), magnitude (20.5 and 9.4 ng/mL; P = 0.005), duration (8.6 and 16.5 h; P = 0.001), and area under the LH curve (158.6 and 339.4 ng/mL; P = 0.01) differed between the EB and EC treatments, respectively. In Experiment 2 (follicular responses; n = 60) and 3 (pregnancy per AI; P/AI; n = 953) suckled Bos indicus beef cows submitted to an estradiol/progesterone-based synchronization protocol were assigned to receive one of two treatments to induce synchronized ovulation: 1 mg of EB im 24 h after progesterone (P4) device removal or 1 mg of EC im at P4 device removal. There was no difference (P > 0.05) between EB and EC treatments on follicular responses (maximum diameter of the ovulatory follicle, 13.1 vs. 13.9 mm; interval from progesterone device removal to ovulation, 70.2 vs. 68.5 h; and ovulation rate, 77.8 vs. 82.8%, respectively). In addition, P/AI was similar (P < 0.22) between the cows treated with EB (57.5%; 277/482) and EC (61.8%; 291/471). In conclusion, despite pharmacologic differences, both esters of estradiol administered either at P4 device removal (EC) or 24 h later (EB) were effective in inducing an LH surge which resulted in synchronized ovulations and similar P/AI in suckled Bos indicus beef cows submitted to TAI.

LH and FSH concentration and follicular development in Nellore heifers submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination protocols with different progesterone concentrations.

Nine heifers were pre-synchronized (PGF2α, 12 days) and assigned into three groups with 6 repetitions each: (1) CL (∼8 days old, n=13); (2) DIB+CL (n=18); (3) DIB+EB (150 µg of PGF2α and 2mg estradiol benzoate, n=18). After progesterone (P4) device removal (8 days) and/or final PGF2α, heifers were injected with either GnRH or EB in a 3×2 factorial totalling 49 observations (5 were excluded). The blood sampling schedule: every 12 h during P4 period; for LH pulse frequency on Days 3-5, every 15 min for 6 h during P4 period; after P4 removal and EB treatment, samples were collected every 3 h for 24 h or after GnRH every 1 h for 10 h. Ovarian follicle number and diameter were evaluated by ultrasonography every 12 h until the last blood sample and then 24 h and 48 h later. After device insertion (12 h), the DIB+CL group had a lesser LH concentration than the DIB+EB group. After 36 h, all DIB+CL-treated heifers had less LH than CL-heifers, and after 60 h, the DIB+EB group had less LH than the CL-group. Considering all P4 groups combined, LH peak amplitude was greater after GnRH compared to EB treatment but total area of LH peak amplitude and time to first peak was less. The CL-group had fewer follicles and a greater largest follicle diameter than DIB+CL and DIB+EB groups. When treated with EB, the DIB+CL group had a lesser ovulation rate at 24 h than the CL- and DIB+EB-groups. Fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols promoted a pre-ovulatory LH peak, independent of previous exposure to the DIB coupled with a CL or not. The progesterone excess interfered with FSH and LH secretion, follicular development and ovulation within 24 h.

Effects of flunixin meglumine, recombinant bovine somatotropin and/or human chorionic gonadotropin on pregnancy rates in Nelore cows.

The objective was to compare pharmacological strategies aiming to inhibit prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF(2α)) synthesis (flunixin meglumine; FM), stimulate growth of the conceptus (recombinant bovine somatotropin; bST) and progesterone (P(4)) synthesis (human chorionic gonadotropin; hCG), as well as their combinations, regarding their ability to improve pregnancy rates in beef cattle. Lactating Nelore cows (N = 975), 35 to 70 days postpartum, were synchronized and inseminated by timed artificial insemination (TAI) on Day 0. On Day 7, cattle were allocated into eight groups and received one of the following treatments: saline (S) on Days 7 and 16 (Group Control); S on Day 7 and FM on Day 16 (Group FM); bST on Day 7 and S on Day 16 (Group bST); bST on Day 7 and FM on Day 16 (Group bST + FM); hCG on Day 7 and S on Day 16 (Group hCG); hCG on Day 7 and FM on Day 16 (Group hCG + FM); bST and hCG on Day 7 and S on Day 16 (Group bST + hCG), or bST and hCG on Day 7 and FM on Day 16 (Group bST + hCG + FM). The aforementioned treatments were administered at the following doses: 2.2 mg/kg FM (Banamine®; Intervet Schering-Plough, Cotia, SP, Brazil), 500 mg bST (Boostin®; Intervet Schering-Plough), and 2500 IU hCG (Chorulon®; Intervet Schering-Plough). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 40 days after TAI by transrectal ultrasonography. Pregnancy rates were not significantly different among treatments. However, there was a main effect of hCG treatment to increase pregnancy rates (63.0 vs. 55.4%; P = 0.001). Concentrations of P(4) did not differ significantly among groups on Day 7 or on Day 16. However, consistent with the higher pregnancy rates, hCG increased P(4) concentrations on Day 16 (10.6 vs. 9.6 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.05). We concluded that hCG treatment 7 days after TAI improved pregnancy rates of lactating Nelore cows, possibly via a mechanism leading to induction of higher P(4) concentrations, or by reducing the luteolytic stimulus during maternal recognition of pregnancy.

Ultrasonographic and endocrine aspects of follicle deviation, and acquisition of ovulatory capacity in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) heifers.

The objectives of this study were to determine the interval from ovulation to deviation and the diameter of the dominant (DF) and largest subordinate (SF) follicles at deviation in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) heifers. Two methods of evaluation (observed vs. calculated) were used. FSH and LH profiles encompassing follicle deviation (Experiment 1), and the follicular diameter when the DF acquired ovulatory capacity (Experiment 2) were also determined. The time of deviation and the diameter of the DF and the largest SF at deviation did not differ between observed and calculated methods. Overall, follicle deviation occurred 2.6 ± 0.2d (mean ± SEM) after ovulation, and the diameters of the DF and SF at deviation were 7.2 ± 0.2 and 6.4 ± 0.2mm, respectively. No changes in plasma levels of FSH or LH were observed (P=0.32 and P=0.96, respectively). Experiment 2 was conducted in two phases according to the diameter of the DF during the first wave of follicular development at the time of LH challenge (25mg of pLH). In the first phase, follicles ranging from 5.0 to 6.0mm (n=7), 6.1 to 7.0mm (n=11), or 7.1 to 8.0mm (n=9) were used, and in the second phase, follicles ranging from 7.0 to 8.4mm (n=10), 8.5 to 10.0mm (n=10), or 10.1 to 12.0mm (n=9) of diameter were used. After the pLH treatment, the DF was monitored by ultrasonography every 12h for 48h. No ovulations occurred in heifers in the first phase. However, in the second phase, an effect of follicular diameter was observed on ovulation rate [7.0-8.4mm (0.0%, 0/10), 8.5-10.0mm (50.0%, 5/10), and 10.0-12.0mm (55.6%, 5/9)]. In summary, follicle deviation occurred 2.6d after ovulation in buffalo (B. bubalis) heifers, when the diameters of the DF and SF were 7.2 and 6.4mm, respectively. No significant changes in plasma concentrations of FSH or LH were detected. Finally, the acquisition of ovulatory capacity occurred when the DF reached 8.5mm in diameter.

Strategies to improve fertility in Bos indicus postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination.

Two experiments were designed to evaluate strategies to increase fertility of Bos indicus postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows submitted to a fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) protocol consisting of an intravaginal device containing 1.9 g of progesterone (CIDR) insertion+estradiol benzoate on Day 0, CIDR withdrawal+estradiol cypionate on Day 9, and TAI on Day 11. In Experiment 1, heifers (n=1153) received a new or an 18-d previously used CIDR and, on Day 9, prostaglandin F(2 alpha) (PGF(2 alpha))+0, 200, or 300 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). Heifers treated with a new CIDR had greater (least squares means+/-SEM) serum concentration of progesterone on Day 9 (3.06+/-0.09 ng/mL vs. 2.53+/-0.09 ng/mL; P<0.05) and a smaller follicle at TAI (11.61+/-0.11 mm vs. 12.05+/-0.12 mm; P<0.05). Heifers with smaller follicles at TAI had lesser serum progesterone concentrations on Day 18 and reduced rates of ovulation, conception, and pregnancy (P<0.05). Treatment with eCG improved (P<0.05) follicle diameter at TAI (11.50+/-0.10mm, 11.90+/-0.11 mm, and 12.00+/-0.10mm for 0, 100, and 200 IU, respectively), serum progesterone concentration on Day 18 (2.77+/-0.11 ng/mL, 3.81+/-0.11 ng/mL, and 4.87+/-0.11 ng/mL), and rates of ovulation (83.8%, 88.5%, and 94.3%) and pregnancy (41.3%, 47.0%, and 46.7%). In Experiment 2, nonlactating Nelore cows (n=702) received PGF(2 alpha) treatment on Days 7 or 9 and, on Day 9, 0 or 300 IU eCG. Cows receiving PGF(2 alpha) on Day 7 had lesser serum progesterone concentrations on Day 9 (3.05+/-0.21 ng/mL vs. 4.58+/-0.21 ng/mL; P<0.05), a larger follicle at TAI (11.54+/-0.21 mm vs. 10.84+/-0.21 mm; P<0.05), and improved (P<0.05) rates of ovulation (85.4% vs. 77.0%), conception (60.9% vs. 47.2%), and pregnancy (52.0% vs. 36.4%). Treatment with eCG improved (P<0.05) serum progesterone concentration on Day 18 (3.24+/-0.14 ng/mL vs. 4.55+/-0.14 ng/mL) and the rates of ovulation (72.4% vs. 90.0%) and pregnancy (37.5% vs. 50.8%). In conclusion, giving PGF(2 alpha) earlier in the protocol in nonlactating cows and eCG treatment in postpubertal heifers and nonlactating cows improved fertility in response to a TAI (progesterone+estradiol) protocol.

Effect of circulating progesterone on in vitro developmental competence of bovine oocytes

This study evaluated the effects of systemic progesterone concentration on oocyte quality and in vitro embryo production. Oocytes were retrieved from 15 crossbred cows (Bos taurus x Bos indicus). These cows were randomly allocated into three groups to provide low; high, or very low (LP4, HP4 and VLP4, respectively) plasma progesterone concentrations and received either a previously used CIDR, two new CIDR devices, or no progesterone treatment (Day 0). The CIDR devices were replaced every 8 days along with 150 µg of D-cloprostenol injections. The ovum pick-up (OPU) procedure was performed every 4 days from Day 4 to 24. Simultaneous to OPU procedure, plasma was collected to measure progesterone and on Day 18, serial blood samples were collected to assess the pattern of LH release. Hormone concentrations were analyzed by ANOVA and the binomial variables were analyzed by Chi-square. Plasma progesterone concentration was higher in the HP4, intermediate in the LP4, and lower in the VLP4 group (3.6, 1.6, and 0.5 ng/ml; P < 0.05). Plasma LH was higher in the LP4, intermediary in the VLP4, and lower in the HP4 group (1.6, 1.0, and 0.8 ng/ml). A greater percentage of viable oocytes (grades I to III) was retrieved from LP4 (79.4%; 131/165) than from the HP4 (68.4%; 119/174) group (P = 0.07); the VLP4 group did not differ from the others (72.3%; 60/83). Furthermore, the blastocyst production and blastocyst rate was higher in LP4 (1.3 ± 0.4; 28.2%), than in HP4 (0.8 ± 0.4; 16.0%) or the VLP4 (0.4 ± 0.4; 15.0%) group (P = 0.06 and 0.03 for blastocyst production and rate, respectively). In conclusion, intermediate plasma P4 concentration that results in higher circulating LH in cows may improve in vitro embryo production.

Teores séricos de proteína total, imunoglobulina g e cortisol em bezerros Nelore, ao nascimento e às 24 horas de vida: influência do tipo e da duração dos partos / Serum levels of total protein, immunoglobulin g and cortisol in Nellore calves, at the birth and at 24 hours old: influence of the type and the duration of the parturition

Foram avaliadas as concentrações séricas de proteína total (PT), imunoglobulina G (IgG) e cortisol de 251 bezerros da raça Nelore, comparando-se quanto ao tipo de parto (normal ou distócico) e o tempo de duração. Os teores médios de proteína total não apresentaram diferenças significativas em relação ao tipo e nem à duração dos partos. Os valores médios de imunoglobulina G não apresentaram diferença significativa em relação ao tipo de parto. Já o tempo de duração dos partos influenciou os valores séricos de IgG, sendo que os animais que demoraram entre quatro e seis horas para o seu nascimento apresentaram menores valores (1.250 mg/dL) do que os que demoraram entre o nascimento a duas horas para nascerem (3.200 mg/dL). Os teores de cortisol não foram influenciados pelo tipo ou duração dos partos.

The serum levels of total protein (PT), immunoglobulin G (IgG) and cortisol of 251 Nelore calves, born from normal and dystocics calving or according the duration of the calving were evaluated. There were no statistically significant differences between the average contents of total protein in relation to the type or time of calving. The serum values of IgG were not influenced by the type of calving but by the duration of the calving, since the animals requiring from four to six hours to be born showed lesser IgG value (1.250 mg/dL) than those that were born in shorter time (3.200 mg/dL). The cortisol levels were not influenced by the type or duration of calving.

DETERMINAÇÃO DOS NÍVEIS SÉRICOS DE PROTEÍNA TOTAL, DE IMUNOGLOBULINA G E DE CORTISOL EM BEZERROS NELORES, AO NASCIMENTO E ÀS 24 HORAS DE VIDA: INFLUÊNCIA DO TIPO (NORMAL E DISTÓCICO) E DO TEMPO DE DURAÇÃO DOS PARTOS

Foram avaliadas as concentrações séricas de proteína total (PT), imunoglobulina G (IgG) e cortisol de 251 bezerros nelores, comparando-se quanto ao tipo de parto (normal ou distócico) e o tempo de duração. Os teores médios de proteína total não apresentaram diferenças significativas em relação ao tipo e nem ao tempo de duração dos partos. Os valores médios de imunoglobulina G não apresentaram diferenças significativas em relação ao tipo de parto. Já o tempo de duração dos partos teve influência nos valores séricos de IgG, sendo que os animais que demoraram entre quatro e seis horas para o seu nascimento apresentaram menores valores (1250,00 mg/dL) do que os que levaram entre zero e duas horas para nascerem (3200,00 mg/dL). Os teores de cortisol não foram influenciados pelo tipo ou duração dos partos.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Neonatos. Proteína total. Distocia. Imunidade passiva.

Effect of circulating progesterone on in vitro developmental competence of bovine oocytes

This study evaluated the effects of systemic progesterone concentration on oocyte quality and in vitro embryo production. Oocytes were retrieved from 15 crossbred cows (Bos taurus x Bos indicus). These cows were randomly allocated into three groups to provide low; high, or very low (LP4, HP4 and VLP4, respectively) plasma progesterone concentrations and received either a previously used CIDR, two new CIDR devices, or no progesterone treatment (Day 0). The CIDR devices were replaced every 8 days along with 150 µg of D-cloprostenol injections. The ovum pick-up (OPU) procedure was performed every 4 days from Day 4 to 24. Simultaneous to OPU procedure, plasma was collected to measure progesterone and on Day 18, serial blood samples were collected to assess the pattern of LH release. Hormone concentrations were analyzed by ANOVA and the binomial variables were analyzed by Chi-square. Plasma progesterone concentration was higher in the HP4, intermediate in the LP4, and lower in the VLP4 group (3.6, 1.6, and 0.5 ng/ml; P < 0.05). Plasma LH was higher in the LP4, intermediary in the VLP4, and lower in the HP4 group (1.6, 1.0, and 0.8 ng/ml). A greater percentage of viable oocytes (grades I to III) was retrieved from LP4 (79.4%; 131/165) than from the HP4 (68.4%; 119/174) group (P = 0.07); the VLP4 group did not differ from the others (72.3%; 60/83). Furthermore, the blastocyst production and blastocyst rate was higher in LP4 (1.3 ± 0.4; 28.2%), than in HP4 (0.8 ± 0.4; 16.0%) or the VLP4 (0.4 ± 0.4; 15.0%) group (P = 0.06 and 0.03 for blastocyst production and rate, respectively). In conclusion, intermediate plasma P4 concentration that results in higher circulating LH in cows may improve in vitro embryo production.(AU)

Curvas de Crescimento de Bezerros da Raça Girolando / Growth curves of girolando calves / Curvas ce crecimiento de becerros de la raza girolando

O cruzamento de zebuíno com taurino busca associar a rusticidade com produtividade, melhorando a adaptação de um animal de alta produção ao meio ambiente. O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento e desenvolvimento em 338 bezerros da raça Girolando à desmama. As médias observadas em machos e fêmeas foram, respectivamente, para peso ao nascer 31,88±5,22 kg e 29,57±4,2 kg, para o peso a desmama 133,9±29,9 kg e 136,6±29,4 kg, para o perímetro torácico ao nascimento 72,47±4,12 cm e 70,62±3,62 cm e para o perímetro torácico à desmama foram 119,3±8,96 cm e 118±7,93 cm. Os machos da raça Girolando nasceram mais pesados e com maior perímetro torácico que as fêmeas. O peso e o perímetro torácico não diferiram (p≥0,05) na desmama entre machos e fêmeas. No presente trabalho, os bezerros da raça Girolando apresentaram padrão de crescimento e desenvolvimento compatíveis para serem criados em condições comerciais de exploração leiteira.(AU)

The mix of Bos taurus and Bos indicus is a breeding alternative to improve animal production, associated to the adaptation of the productivity with environment resistance. The present research evaluated the growth and development in 338 Girolando calves from birth until weaning. The average weight observed in male and female was respectively, at birth 31.88±5.22 kg and 29.57±4.2 kg; and the weight at weaning was 133.9±29.9 kg and 136.6±29.4 kg; for the thorax perimeter at birth, was 72.47±4.12 cm and 70.62±3.62 cm; the thorax perimeter at weaning was 119.3±8.96 cm and 118±7.93 cm. Girolando male calves were heavier and had a larger thorax perimeter than female at birth. The weight and thorax perimeter didnt differ (p≥0.05) between males and females at weaning. In this study, Girolando calves presented satisfactory growth and development being able to be created in commercial conditions of milk explorations.(AU)

El cruce de los cebús con taurinos busca asociar el rústico con el productivo, mejorando la adaptación de un animal de alta producción al medio ambiente. La investigación evaluó el crecimiento y desarrollo de 338 becerros de la raza Girolando desde el nacimiento hasta el destete. Las medias observadas en machos y hembras, respectivamente, para el peso al nacer fueron 31,88±5,22 kg y 29,57±4,2 kg; para el peso al destete fueron 133,9±29,9 kg y 136,6±29,4 kg; para el perímetro torácico al nacimiento de 72,47±4,12 cm y 70,62±3,62 cm; perímetro del tórax al destete de 119,3±8,96 cm y 118±7,93 cm. El peso y el perímetro torácico no fueron diferentes (p≥0,05) al destete entre machos y hembras. En la actual investigación, los becerros de la raza Girolando presentaron padrón de crecimiento y desarrollo compatible para que sean criados en las condiciones comerciales de exploración lechera.(AU)

Curvas de Crescimento de Bezerros da Raça Girolando / Growth curves of girolando calves / Curvas ce crecimento de becerros de la raza girolando

O cruzamento de zebuíno com taurino busca associar a rusticidade com produtividade, melhorando a adaptação de um animal de alta produção ao meio ambiente. O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento e desenvolvimento em 338 bezerros da raça Girolando à desmama. As médias observadas em machos e fêmeas foram, respectivamente, para peso ao nascer 31,88±5,22 kg e 29,57±4,2 kg, para o peso a desmama 133,9±29,9 kg e 136,6±29,4 kg, para o perímetro torácico ao nascimento 72,47±4,12 cm e 70,62±3,62 cm e para o perímetro torácico à desmama foram 119,3±8,96 cm e 118±7,93 cm. Os machos da raça Girolando nasceram mais pesados e com maior perímetro torácico que as fêmeas. O peso e o perímetro torácico não diferiram (p≥0,05) na desmama entre machos e fêmeas. No presente trabalho, os bezerros da raça Girolando apresentaram padrão de crescimento e desenvolvimento compatíveis para serem criados em condições comerciais de exploração leiteira.

The mix of Bos taurus and Bos indicus is a breeding alternative to improve animal production, associated to the adaptation of the productivity with environment resistance. The present research evaluated the growth and development in 338 Girolando calves from birth until weaning. The average weight observed in male and female was respectively, at birth 31.88±5.22 kg and 29.57±4.2 kg; and the weight at weaning was 133.9±29.9 kg and 136.6±29.4 kg; for the thorax perimeter at birth, was 72.47±4.12 cm and 70.62±3.62 cm; the thorax perimeter at weaning was 119.3±8.96 cm and 118±7.93 cm. Girolando male calves were heavier and had a larger thorax perimeter than female at birth. The weight and thorax perimeter didn’t differ (p≥0.05) between males and females at weaning. In this study, Girolando calves presented satisfactory growth and development being able to be created in commercial conditions of milk explorations.

El cruce de los cebús con taurinos busca asociar el rústico con el productivo, mejorando la adaptación de un animal de alta producción al medio ambiente. La investigación evaluó el crecimiento y desarrollo de 338 becerros de la raza Girolando desde el nacimiento hasta el destete. Las medias observadas en machos y hembras, respectivamente, para el peso al nacer fueron 31,88±5,22 kg y 29,57±4,2 kg; para el peso al destete fueron 133,9±29,9 kg y 136,6±29,4 kg; para el perímetro torácico al nacimiento de 72,47±4,12 cm y 70,62±3,62 cm; perímetro del tórax al destete de 119,3±8,96 cm y 118±7,93 cm. El peso y el perímetro torácico no fueron diferentes (p≥0,05) al destete entre machos y hembras. En la actual investigación, los becerros de la raza Girolando presentaron padrón de crecimiento y desarrollo compatible para que sean criados en las condiciones comerciales de exploración lechera.

Uranium incorporation biokinetics in poultry bonesas function of phytase doses

Direct alpha-energy spectroscopy in liquids is possible by placing a chemically selective polymer thin film upon the surface of passivated silicon diodes. By utilizing polymer thin films with high affinity for actinides, we have been able to selectively concentrate actinides of interest upon the diode surface, resulting in a substantial increase in sensitivity relative to a direct measurement. With this film coated diodes, we were able to obtain in-situ alpha spectra with energy resolution comparable to that of conventional alpha-spectroscopy. The response of the thin film coated diode was found to be linear over . The sensitivity and reversibility is a function of the membrane complexation chemistry.

Long-term accumulation of uranium in bones of Wistar rats as a function of intake dosages.

Groups of Wistar rats were fed with ration doped with uranyl nitrate at concentration A ranging from 0.5 to 100 ppm, starting after the weaning period and lasting until the postpuberty period when the animals were sacrificed. Uranium in the ashes of bones was determined by neutron activation analysis. It was found that the uranium concentration in the bones, as a function of A, exhibits a change in its slope at approximately 20 ppm-a probable consequence of the malfunctioning of kidneys. The uranium transfer coefficient was obtained and an analytical expression was fitted into the data, thus allowing extrapolation down to low doses. Internal and localized doses were calculated. Absorbed doses exceeded the critical dose, even for the lowest uranium dosage.