Improving the Reproductive Efficiency, Pregnancy Diagnosis and Monitoring the Resumption of Luteal Activity in Indigenous Damascus Goats

Seventy‐five female Damascus goats aged between 1.5 and 5.5 years were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intravaginal sponges and prostaglandin analogue on oestrous synchronization and fecundity; to diagnose pregnancy and to monitor the resumption of the luteal activity. Females were divided randomly, during the breeding season, into three equal groups, S, P and C. Females in group S were fitted with sponges containing 45 mg of flugestone acetate (FGA) for 14 days and injected with pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) at the sponge withdrawal. Females in group P were given two injections of prostaglandin F2α analogue at 11‐day intervals, whereas females in group C (control) received no treatment. The results showed that there was a significant difference (p < 0.001) in oestrous exhibition between females in group S as compared with those in groups P and C, with means being 30 ± 10, 172 ± 115 and 217 ± 75 h for groups S, P and C, respectively. Kidding rates resulting from the first and all matings were 80 and 88, 52 and 88, and 68 and 80% for groups S, P and C, respectively. Fecundity rates were 215, 175 and 180% for groups S, P and C, respectively, with a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the S and both P and C groups. Using an ultrasound pregnancy detector performed on days 57 ± 3 after mating, positive pregnancy diagnosis was 93.3% and 100% for non‐pregnancy. Females in the control group showed functional corpus luteum starting in September. It is concluded that FGA sponges plus PMSG treatment could be successfully used to synchronize oestrus and improve fecundity; whereas prostaglandin treatment was not effective to synchronize oestrus. It is also concluded that pregnancy can be diagnosed accurately and successfully using an ultrasound pregnancy detector. In addition, ovarian activity in the Damascus goat in Syria resumes in September.     

Influence of practitioner expertise during early pregnancy diagnosis on pregnancy loss rate: A controlled,blinded trial

A controlled field trial was conducted to assess the potential influence of practitioner inexperience during early pregnancy diagnosis with ultrasound (PD‐US) on the risk of pregnancy loss. A veterinarian with more than 10 years’ experience in PD‐US (Vet‐A) and a veterinarian with fewer than 12 months’ experience at the start of the study (Vet‐B) visited the same dairy farm once a week for 33 and 26 weeks, respectively. The two veterinarians did not interact with each other at any time during the study, nor did they know that their data would later be used in this study. Using the same farm scanner, they performed PD‐US at 28–34 day after breeding, together diagnosing 915 pregnancies. All cows were re‐checked at 49–56 day after artificial insemination, and cows no longer pregnant were recorded as having suffered pregnancy loss. Although Vet‐A and Vet‐B diagnosed a similar proportion of pregnancies (58.44 ± 16% vs 56.96 ± 18%, p > .05), the rate of pregnancy loss was significantly higher among cows diagnosed by Vet‐B (10.41 ± 11.2% vs 4.87 ± 9.0, p = .029). In addition, among cows diagnosed by Vet‐B, the rate of pregnancy loss was significantly higher among cows diagnosed, while he had fewer than 12 months’ PD‐US experience (11.17 ± 12.14%) than among cows that he diagnosed later (7.14 ± 11.01%, p = .038); in fact, this latter loss rate was comparable to that among cows diagnosed by Vet‐A during the same period (3.51 ± 9.83%, p = .620). These results suggest that inexperience with PD‐US during the late embryonic period can increase risk of early pregnancy loss, supporting the need for proper training.     

Improved Prediction of Ovulation Time may Increase Pregnancy Rates to Artificial Insemination in Lactating Dairy Cattle

A prospective observational study was conducted in two Australian dairy herds to assess the potential for improving pregnancy rates (proportions of inseminations that result in pregnancy) to artificial insemination (AI) if the time of ovulation could be predicted with more certainty. Herd 1 calved year‐round and inseminations were performed during two periods each day. Herd 2 calved during autumn–winter and inseminations were performed only after the morning milking each day. In both herds, the AI to ovulation interval of enrolled cows was determined by trans‐rectal ovarian ultrasonography approximately 0, 12, 24 and 36 h after AI, and pregnancy was assessed by palpation per rectum 35–56 days after AI. Also, in Herd 1 vaginal electrical resistance (VER) measurements were taken at approximately 0, 12, 24 and 36 h after AI, and in Herd 2 cows were fitted with neck mounted activity meters that monitored cow activity count in 2‐h periods. There was substantial variation in the intervals from AI to ovulation within and between herds (mean ± SD 21.2 ± 10.7, n = 102; 14.7 ± 10.4, n = 100 in herds 1 and 2, respectively). Pregnancy rates were higher for inseminations close to, but preceding, ovulation. Using combined herd data (n = 202), the highest pregnancy rate (50.8%) was observed for inseminations between 0 and 16 h before ovulation, a period in which only a modest proportion of inseminations (31.2%) occurred. In contrast, pregnancy rate was significantly lower (28.7%; risk ratio 0.6; 95% CI 0.4–1.0; p = 0.039) for inseminations between 16 and 32 h before ovulation, a period where the highest proportion of inseminations (53.2%) occurred. Thus pregnancy rates could potentially be improved if a greater proportion of inseminations were conducted shortly before ovulation. In Herd 1, mean VER during the peri‐ovulatory period varied with time from ovulation. Lowest values (mean ± SEM, VER = 64.8 ± 1.2, n = 55) occurred approximately 18 h before ovulation and were significantly lower than measurements approximately 6 h before ovulation (67.4 ± 1.0; n = 73; p = 0.003). Further work is required to determine if VER can be used to identify ovulation time and hence the optimal time to inseminate in individual animals. In Herd 2 a modest proportion of inseminations (26.9%) occurred between 24 and 40 h after the onset of increased cow activity where the highest pregnancy rate (67.9%) was observed, whereas a significantly lower pregnancy rate (42.4%; risk ratio 0.6; 95% CI 0.4–0.9; p = 0.036) was observed for inseminations between 8 and 24 h after the onset of increased cow activity where the highest proportion of inseminations (56.7%) occurred. Thus cow activity monitoring may be useful to identify the optimal time to inseminate cows. Results from this study indicate that improved methods of ovulation prediction may allow better insemination timing relative to ovulation and consequently increased pregnancy rates.     

Oestrus detection techniques and insemination strategies in Bos indicus heifers synchronised with norgestomet-oestradiol

SUMMARY Oestrus was synchronised in 57 Bos indicus heifers using norgestometoestradiol and pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin. Oestrus was detected by observations made at six-hourly intervals, using oestrogen-treated and chin-ball harnessed steers, heatmount detectors, tail-paint and visual observation. Heifers were inseminated once at either a fixed time of 49.2 ± 0.4 h (mean ± SE; n = 29) after implant removal or 12.6 ± 1.5 h (n = 28) after oestrus was detected. The mean (± SE) time to the onset of oestrus was 47.1 ± 1.9 h, while 90% of heifers recorded in oestrus were detected within 66 h of implant removal. Heatmount detectors were significantly more efficient at detecting oestrus than chin-ball harnessed steers, tail paint or visual observation (P < 0.001). A higher pregnancy rate was obtained in heifers inseminated after oestrus detection compared with heifers inseminated at a fixed-time (57.1 vs 34.5%; P = 0.043) and a higher pregnancy rate was obtained in heifers classified as easy to inseminate compared with heifers classified as difficult to inseminate (57.8 vs 0%, P < 0.001). We conclude that heatmount detectors are an efficient means of detecting oestrus in synchronised B indicus heifers and that pregnancy rates can be increased when insemination follows oestrus detection compared with a fixed-time insemination regimen.     

Effect of semen and donor factors on multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) in sheep

Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) is an important tool in the sheep industry for increasing numbers of genetically superior individuals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of semen source (frozen or fresh), the number of embryo collection procedures for each donor (NECP), the season in which embryo transfer and collection was performed, and the age and breed of the donor, on the number of recovered embryos and pregnancy rates after embryo transfer. The Alamos Genetics’ flushing station database was used. This consisted of 140 embryo collection procedures, from 53 Dorper and White Dorper sheep donors, aged between one and eight years, totalling 1,200 collected embryos. Neither the number of retrieved embryos nor the pregnancy rate was affected by the semen preservation method (fresh or frozen), NECP or the age and breed of donor. The season did not affect the number of collected embryos but had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the recipient pregnancy rate, with higher pregnancy rates reported in the winter (65.57% ± 25.33%) compared with spring (37.11% ± 33.27%), summer (29.95% ± 28.33%) or autumn (35.03% ± 31.66%). There is an estimated increase of 98.4% and 71.5% of embryos recovered in the spring and summer seasons, respectively, when winter is used as reference. The survival of embryos is significantly higher when implanted during the breeding season, more specifically in winter. Embryo collection can be carried out throughout the year in sheep, but there may be a marginal advantage in the use of superovulation and fresh embryo transfer programmes in the autumn and winter.     

The robustness of faecal steroid determination for pregnancy testing Kaimanawa feral mares under field conditions

Aims: To investigate the utility of faecal oestrone sulphate (OS) concentrations for detecting pregnancy in mares during behavioural studies of feral horses, in which the collection and preservation of samples is not immediate.

Methods: Oestrone sulphate concentrations were measured in fresh dung samples collected from 153 free-roaming Kaimanawa mares throughout the year. In addition, multiple samples were taken from the same pile to investigate the reliability of diagnosis from a single sample, as well as the influence of time until preservation on OS concentrations. Samples were also taken before and after a 10mm simulated rainfall event to test for dilution of OS concentrations by rain. Oestrone sulphate concentrations in all samples were measured using an enzymeimmunoassay.

Results: From approximately 150 to 250 days of gestation, OS concentrations were consistently >80 ng/g in mares which subsequently foaled. Mares which did not foal and had low faecal OS concentrations in multiple samples throughout the year had faecal OS concentrations of 31 ±13 ng/g (mean ± s.d.) with an upper 95% confidence limit of 57 ng/g. Mares sampled from 1 week before to 1 month after behavioural oestrus, and that did not foal in the previous and subsequent seasons, had OS concentrations of 37 ± 32 ng/g (mean ± s.d.) with an upper 95% confidence limit of 100 ng/g.The standard error of oestrone sulphate concentrations in multiple samples from the same dung pile ranged from 1 to 37% of the mean. This large within-pile variation, however, did not result in incorrect diagnoses from single samples unless mares were within 18 days of parturition. Keeping samples at ambient temperatures for up to 16 hours did not affect OS concentrations. Simulated rainfall caused a 17% mean reduction in OS concentrations, but did not change pregnancy diagnoses.

Conclusions: Faecal OS concentrations > 100 ng/g were indicative of pregnancy in Kaimanawa mares. For mares more than 150 days post-mating, OS concentrations <57 ng/g were indicative of non-pregnancy, while concentrations between 57 and 100 ng/g provided an inconclusive diagnosis. A single sample from each dung pile collected within 16 hours of defecation was sufficient to accurately diagnose pregnancy in mares 150-250 days post conception.

Clinical Relevance: Measurement of OS concentrations in dung samples was a reliable and robust indicator of pregnancy status in feral mares 150-250 days post mating. This corresponds approximately to the period from May to August, given the seasonal breeding pattern in this population. This method of determining pregnancy status is suitable for field use in behavioural and demographic studies of wild horse populations.     

Assessment of Different Functional Parameters of Frozen–Thawed Buffalo Spermatozoa by Using Cytofluorimetric Determinations

Flow cytometry is a useful tool that provides an accurate, objective and rapid evaluation of semen quality. The use of this technique could significantly improve the quality of buffalo semen samples used in artificial insemination. This study was carried out to evaluate, by flow cytometry, frozen–thawed buffalo spermatozoa quality parameters such as sperm viability by SYBR‐14/propidium iodide staining; mitochondrial function by JC‐1 potentiometric probe; sperm chromatin stability (SCSA) by acridine orange; and acrosome reaction (AR) by FITC‐PNA staining. Semen samples from five Italian Mediterranean buffalo bulls were used. Sperm viability was not different between bulls and ranged from 33.4% to 43.6%. A consistent rate (55.1 ± 10.8%) of sperm cells showed high mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ^high), with no significant differences between subjects. Sperm chromatin structure assay differed significantly between the five buffalo bulls; moreover, data showed high stability within each buffalo. DNA fragmentation indexes (DFI), such as %‐DFI, ‐DFI, SD‐DFI, were 11.2 ± 8.6, 153.3 ± 24.6 and 81.6 ± 21.2, respectively. Regarding AR, the percentage of acrosome‐reacted live (ARL) and acrosome‐reacted dead (ARD) spermatozoa was 0.3 ± 0.2 and 15.3 ± 5.5, respectively. This functional parameter differed significantly between buffalo bulls and showed high stability. Following to Ca²⁺ ionophore A23187 for 3 h, AR significantly differed between subjects and was characterized by an increase in both ARL (10.8%) and ARD population (22.0%). This study indicates that flow cytometry could be a useful tool for a quick multiparametric evaluation of sperm quality in buffalo. In particular, SCSA and AR resulted in sperm functional parameters sensitive enough for the diagnosis of frozen‐thawed semen fertilizing potential.     

Artificial insemination of Bos indicus heifers: The effects of body weight, condition score, ovarian cyclic status and insemination regimen on pregnancy rate

SUMMARY Effects of body weight, condition score, ovarian cyclic status and insemination regimen on pregnancy rates were investigated in 164 Bos indicus heifers synchronised with norgestomet-oestradiol and pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). Oestrus detection techniques were also compared. Heifers were inseminated at either a fixed time (group 1, n = 83) of 48.0 ± 0.2 h (mean ± SEM) after implant removal or at 8.9 ± 0.5 h after oestrus was detected (group 2, n = 81). Group 2 heifers that were not detected in oestrus by 72 h after implant removal were inseminated at that time. Oestrus was detected for the purpose of insemination using heatmount detectors. Tail-paint and oestrogen treated, chin-ball harnessed steers were used to compare the efficiency of oestrus detection. The probability of ovarian cyclicity increased with increasing body weight and condition score (P < 0.001). A higher proportion of heifers that were acyclic at the commencement of treatment, compared with cyclic heifers, were detected in oestrus at the time of insemination in the fixed-time inseminated group (P <0.01). Analysis of covariance revealed that intervals from implant removal to oestrus were influenced by ovarian cyclic status (P < 0.01) and insemination group (P < 0.05). A higher pregnancy rate (%± SEM) was obtained in acyclic compared with cyclic heifers in the group 1 heifers (50.0 ± 10 vs 28.1 ± 6; P = 0.055) but not among the group 2 heifers (45.8 ± 10 vs 49.1 ± 7; P = 0.787). The probability of pregnancy was found to be associated negatively with body weight (P = 0.01) while a higher pregnancy rate was obtained in the group 2 compared with group 1 heifers (48.2%vs 34.9%; P = 0.093). The efficiency of oestrus detection was highest using heatmount detectors compared with tail-paint and chin-ball harnessed steers (90.7%vs 37.0% and 23.5%, respectively; P < 0.0001). We conclude that pregnancy rates can be increased in extensive environments when insemination follows oestrus detection using heatmount detectors compared with a fixed-time insemination. The fertility of heifers inseminated at a fixed time is influenced by ovarian cyclic status due to its influence on oestrus-to-insemination intervals.     

Challenges of thermal nociceptive threshold testing in the donkey

ObjectiveTo evaluate a thermal nociceptive threshold (TNT) testing device in the donkey, and the influence of potential confounding factors on TNTs.AnimalsTwo groups (Group 1 and Group 2) of eight castrated male donkeys aged 4–9 years, weighing 105–170 kg.MethodsTNTs were measured by heating a thermal probe on skin until an end-point behaviour (threshold temperature) or a cut-out temperature (51 °C) was reached. The withers and the dorsal aspect of the distal limb were used as sites for TNT testing. The effects on TNT of different confounding factors: the limb tested; rate of heating; and ambient temperature were evaluated. Data were analyzed using general linear models, and Mann-Whitney tests, p < 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsEnd-point behaviours (skin twitch or donkey looking at test device) when the thermal probe heated the withers were observed in approximately half of tests. TNT was (mean ± SD) 46.8 ± 2.85 °C. Subsequently the limb was evaluated as the test site in Group 1 followed by Group 2 donkeys; end-point behaviour being a foot-lift. In Group 1, 72% of tests ended in an end-point behaviour but the response rate was lower in Group 2 (20%), although TNTs were similar [(47.6 ± 3.3) and (47.3 ± 3.0) °C respectively] for responding animals. Rate of heating, ambient temperature and laterality (right or left) did not affect thresholds, but mean TNT was significantly higher in the forelimb (48.5 ± 2.8 °C) than the hind limb (47.4 ± 2.8 °C) (p = 0.012).ConclusionsWhen a thermal probe cut-out temperature of 51 °C was used in TNT testing in the donkey a high proportion of tests did not produce an identifiable end point behaviour. Higher cut-out temperatures damaged the skin. Under these conditions, thermal nociceptive threshold testing appears not be an appropriate analgesiometry technique in the donkey.Clinical relevanceTNT testing under these conditions is not suitable form of analgesiometry for donkeys.     

A comparison of six methods used for detecting pregnancy in sheep

The speed and accuracy of 4 ultrasonic devices (Scanopreg, Pregmatic 3, Medata external probe and Medata rectal probe) were compared with udder scoring and harnessed vasectomised rams as methods of pregnancy diagnosis in 177 ewes, 59 of which were non-pregnant. When using the Scanopreg in ewes of greater than 50 days gestation, accuracy in pregnant ewes averaged 98% and in non-pregnant ewes 87%. The Pregmatic 3 was 97% accurate in pregnant ewes after 50 days gestation and was 96% accurate in non-pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 85 and 185 per hour using these devices. The Medata external probe was 99% accurate in pregnant ewes of greater than 110 days gestation but less accurate in early gestation. This instrument averaged 89% accuracy in non-pregnant ewes and an examination rate of 29 to 35 ewes per hour was achieved. The Medata rectal probe averaged 85% accuracy in pregnant ewes after 70 days gestation. Accuracy averaged 94% in non-pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 35 and 59 per hour using this device. After 130 days gestation 84% of ewes had firm, obviously enlarge udders and another 14% had slight to moderate udder development. After 130 days gestation thick, clear udder secretions were expressed from 18% of ewes and thick, milky udder secretions were expressed from 8%. Harnessed vasectomised rams raddled one of 118 pregnant ewes (an accuracy in pregnant sheep of 99%) and raddled 53% of non pregnant ewes. It was concluded that the ultrasonic pregnancy testing devices have a commercial role, especially as aids to decision making.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Timing of Early Foetal Loss for Single and Twin Pregnancies in Dairy Cattle

The incidence of early foetal loss is increasing under intensive management systems for dairy cattle. The aims of the present study were to determine whether there is any peak period of pregnancy loss during the early foetal period and to evaluate possible differences between single and twin pregnancies. The study population consisted of 1442 pregnant cattle from a single herd. Pregnancy was diagnosed by transrectal ultrasonography between 36 and 42 days after insemination, and then weekly until day 90 of gestation or until pregnancy loss. A total of 1310 cows (90.8%) bore single embryos and 132 (9.2%) carried twins. Pregnancy loss was registered in 139 (9.6%) cows before day 90 of pregnancy: 101 (7.7%) in single and 38 (28.8%) in twin pregnancies. The average time of pregnancy loss for all animals was 58.4 ± 12.6 days and ranged from 45 to 90 days. Seventy‐five per cent of the pregnancy losses were registered between 45 and 60 days of gestation. The average time of pregnancy loss for cows with singletons was 52.1 ± 4.1 days and ranged from 45 to 61 days and that for those with twins was 75.1 ± 12.4 days and ranged from 46 to 90 days. Seventy‐five per cent of the twin pregnancy losses were registered between 68 and 90 days of gestation. Our data show that the foetal loss in singleton pregnancies occurs earlier than in twin pregnancies. Assessment of normal development of gestation on days 60 and 90 after insemination is suggested.     

Endometrial Phospholipase A2 Activity During the Oestrous Cycle and Early Pregnancy in Mares

The aim of this study was to determine phospholipase A2 (PLA2) kinetics and activity in the mare’s endometrium during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy. Phospholipase A2 is responsible for the liberation of arachidonic acid from phospholipids, which is the first limiting step in prostaglandins synthesis. Phospholipase A2 activity was measured using an assay based on the liberation of oleic acid from 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐[¹⁴C] oleoyl phosphatidylcholine. The enzyme was shown to be calcium dependent, to have an optimum pH of 8 and an apparent Michaelis constant of 127 μm . Enzyme activity was low in the endometrium of early luteal phase tissue but increased significantly (p < 0.001) during the late luteal phase (5.39 ± 0.16; 3.48 ± 0.33, 6.85 ± 0.59, and 9.96 thinsp;± thinsp;1.23 thinsp;nmol oleic acid released/mg protein at oestrus, and Days 3, 8 and 14 after ovulation, respectively). The mean PLA2 activity in endometrial tissue from pregnant mares (4.23 ± 0.74) was significantly lower (p < 0.01) than from cyclic animals during late dioestrus (9.96 ± 1.23). The results indicate that PLA2 activity in equine endometrium changes with the stage of the oestrous cycle and thus may be influenced by systemic hormone concentrations. The inhibitory effects of conceptus products on secretion of prostaglandin during early pregnancy were associated with a competitive inhibitor that decreased endometrial PLA2 activity.     

Comparison of the Ability of Three Radioimmunoassay to Detect Pregnancy-associated Glycoproteins in Bovine Plasma

Pregnancy‐associated glycoproteins (PAGs) constitute a large family of glycoproteins that are synthesized in the superficial layer of the ruminant placenta according to a spatial and temporal expression pattern. When PAGs are released in the maternal blood they can be used for pregnancy diagnosis, pregnancy follow‐up and for the monitoring of the trophoblastic function. Three different radioimmunoassay systems (RIA 1, RIA 2 and RIA 3) using antisera produced against PAG I₆₇ (RIA 1), PAG₅₅₊₆₂ (RIA 2) and PAG₅₅₊₅₉ (RIA 3) were used in this investigation in order to measure the PAG concentration in plasma samples withdrawn from pregnant cows and heifers during different periods following artificial insemination (AI). These systems were able to detect PAG molecules in the maternal blood as early as 21 days after AI in different concentrations (RIA 1: 0.43 ± 0.24 ng/ml, mean ± SD; RIA 2: 0.48 ± 0.24 ng/ml; RIA 3: 0.64 ± 0.37 ng/ml). On days 32 and 42 RIA 2 (4.30 ± 1.32 ng/ml and 5.56 ± 1.95 ng/ml) and RIA 3 (4.17 ± 1.15 ng/ml and 5.60 ± 1.89 ng/ml) presented significantly (p < 0.0001) higher PAG concentrations than those of RIA 1 (2.43 ± 0.81 ng/ml and 4.01 ± 1.48 ng/ml), respectively. After day 21, significant correlations (p < 0.0001; r ≥ 0.929) were determined between the three systems. Additionally the three individual PAG profiles presented in this study showed that PAG molecules secreted in the maternal blood between 21 and 50 days after AI were better recognized by the RIA 2 and RIA 3 systems. This study clearly indicated that the ability of a RIA test to recognize PAG molecules in the maternal blood can be improved by carefully selecting the antiserum.     

Recent advances in donkey sperm vitrification

Artificial insemination (AI) with cryopreserved semen is an important tool to preserve endangered species, including European donkey breeds. Sperm vitrification is an alternative method to conventional freezing using high cooling rates and non-permeable cryoprotectant agents (CPAs). In donkeys, sperm vitrification was firstly developed in spheres by directly dropping the sperm (30 µl) into the liquid nitrogen. The vitrification media contained a combination of sucrose and bovine serum albumin as non-permeable CPAs and resulted in better sperm parameters after warming than extenders containing glycerol. Thereafter, sperm vitrification was optimized using an aseptic protocol, which consists of volumes up to 160 µl vitrified at 300 million sperm/ml using 0.25-ml straws with outer covers, obtaining similar sperm parameters as conventional freezing for total motility (52.7 ± 15.6% versus. 58.2 ± 16.1%), progressive motility (44.3 ± 15.0% versus. 44.7 ± 18.2%) and plasma membrane integrity (49.2 ± 11.2% versus. 55.4 ± 9.0%), respectively. In order to vitrify larger volumes of sperm, a procedure using 0.5-ml straws was evaluated; however, this methodology failed when compared to conventional freezing or other vitrification protocols, obtaining poor sperm quality after warming. Recently, a new methodology was developed for warming 0.25-ml straws in a water bath and after AI using the vitrified sperm, the uterine inflammatory response solved faster, and pregnancy rates were greater (22%) than frozen semen (10%) but not statistically different. In conclusion, all these findings confirm that sperm vitrification can be performed in donkeys as an alternative to conventional freezing for AI in jennies.     

3种食蟹猴早孕诊断方法的比较

本试验旨在对3种食蟹猴早孕诊断方法进行比较,找出比较准确、可靠的诊断方法。在食蟹猴怀孕第20天时用直肠触诊、B超检查和孕酮值检测3种方法进行早孕诊断,在怀孕第30天时B超确诊是否怀孕。结果表明,B超检查的准确率为96.4%;直肠触诊的准确率为92.9%;孕酮值检测的准确率为64.3%。因此B超检查准确率高,是食蟹猴怀孕诊断的金标法;直肠触诊准确率较高且方便、经济,适合基层生产中进行大批量诊断;孕酮值检测确诊率较低,但可作为早孕诊断的辅助方法。     

Early Pregnancy Detection of Iraqi Riverine Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Using the BioPRYN Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay for PSPB and the Progesterone Assay

This study was undertaken to detect pregnancy in Iraqi riverine buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) using three different methods (rectal palpation, plasma progesterone concentration and detection of the presence of pregnancy‐specific protein B (PSPB) with the BioPRYN^® enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test. The aim of the study was to identify the most sensitive, early and accurate method for detecting pregnancy. Twenty‐two female riverine buffalo that were 6.0 ± 0.93 years old were used. Four blood samples per buffalo were taken via jugular venipuncture at days 22–24, 32–34, 42–44 and 58–61 post‐mating (PM) to measure the progesterone concentration (ng/ml) and to detect the presence of plasma PSPB. The rectal palpation method was employed to evaluate all buffalo on days 42–44 and 58–61 PM. The BioPRYN^® test differed (p < 0.01) from the other tests with earlier accuracy for detecting pregnant and non‐pregnant buffalo. Eighty‐eight percent of pregnant and 76.9% of non‐pregnant buffalo were distinguished early (days 22–24 PM) using BioPRYN^® and plasma PSPB‐ELISA level (2.09 ± 0.12 ng/ml) in relation to 66.7% and 53.9% detected using the progesterone assay at similar days (4.30 ± 0.40 ng/ml). In conclusion, these results described, for the first time, the early and accurate pregnancy detection of water riverine buffalo using BioPRYN^® technology and provided the plasma levels of PSPB using an ELISA test. These findings will improve the reproductive and productive efficiency of Iraqi riverine buffalo by adapting the recent management and reproductive strategies in Iraq and in the world.     

The reused progesterone device has the same effect on short or long estrus synchronization protocols in tropical sheep

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of progesterone (P4) device reutilization in long and short protocols for transcervical timed artificial insemination (TAI) in Santa Inês ewes. A total of 275 multiparous lactating ewes were blocked according to body weight (BW, 49.1?±?7.3 means ± SE), body condition score (BCS, 2.9?±?0.4; scale of 1–5), and days postpartum (50?±?8.2 days), and allocated to one of the treatments. The treatments were arranged in a factorial design, in which the factor 1 was the P4 device type (new or a device of 0.3 g of P4 previously used by 11 days), and the factor 2 was the short or long TAI protocol (P4 device remained by 7 or 11 days, respectively). At device removal, all ewes received 300 IU eCG and 6.70 mg of Dinoprost tromethamine. After TAI protocol, ewes remained with ram by 21 days. There was no interaction between factors in any variables. Ewes that received a new P4 device delayed (P?=?0.05) to show estrus compared with ewes receiving a previously used P4 device, but it did not affect pregnancy rate. The long protocol tended to increase pregnancy rate compared with short protocol (33% vs. 24%, respectively; P?=?0.07). However, the pregnancy rate at the end of reproductive period was similar in both groups (about 84%). Thus, the use of long protocols tended to improve reproductive performance, and the reused P4 device did not affect pregnancy rate.

     

Expression and Activity of Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Uterus of Bitches After Spontaneous and Induced Abortion

Aim of this study was to determine the intrauterine activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐2 and ‐9 after cessation of the local effect of progesterone. For this purpose, pregnancy was terminated in 10 bitches at mid‐gestation with the progesterone receptor antagonist aglepristone (10 mg/kg body weight, sc, Alizine^®; Virbac, France) at two subsequent days (group IRA = induced resorption/abortion). The IRA group was divided into two subgroups (Group I, n = 5, days 25–35 of pregnancy; group II, n = 5, days 36–45). Five further bitches were introduced with beginning abortion (group SRA = spontaneous resorption/abortion). Seven healthy bitches between day 25 and 45 of gestation served as controls. After ovariohysterectomy at the end of abortion and between days 25 and 45 of gestation, respectively, the distribution and activity of collagenases were investigated by immunohistochemistry and gelatin zymography. At placental sites, MMP‐2 activity in the endometrium was significantly lower in IRA groups than in the SRA group (33.7 ± 11.8% and 39.3 ± 5.4% vs 52.2 ± 10.2%, p < 0.05); however, MMP‐2 expression was lowest in the control group (control: 21.4 ± 6.3%; p < 0.01) and similarly in the myometrium (controls: 13.1 ± 2.5%; p < 0.05). MMP‐9 activity was also lower in the endometrium and myometrium of the control group in comparison to SRA and IRA groups (11.8 ± 3.2%; p < 0.01 and 28.4 ± 32.8%; p < 0.05). At interplacental sites, the amount of active collagenases in the myometrium was significantly lower in the control group. It is concluded that the blockade of the biological progesterone effect was associated with an increase in activity of both collagenases.     

Effect of Repeated Use of Progestagen-PMSG Treatment for Estrus Control in Dairy Goats out of Breeding Season

Contents In order to analyze the effects of repeated use of progestagen-PMSG treatment, estrus and pregnancy results have been analyzed for 1989 in a Saânen dairy goat herd in which breeding takes place each year out of season after FGA/PMSG treatment. After the first 1989 treatment (169 goats), percentage of goats showing estrus and kidding have been lower for 59 multiparous than for 46 primiparous and 64 nulliparous females. Moreover, when 38 goats are treated for a second time in 1989, 44.7% exhibited estrus vs 71.0% after the first treatment (P < 0.05). The PMSG binding level before the 1st 1989 treatment is higher for multiparous (17.5 ± 23.1%) than nulli and primiparous (-0.06 ± 0.7 and 1.2 ± 1.9%) and is increased for all parities after treatment (23.2 ± 26.4 after vs 5.7 ± 15.0% before, P < 0.01). For nulliparous and primiparous females; PMSG binding levels are not different for pregnant or not pregnant nulliparous and primiparous goats. On the opposite, PMSG binding rates are higher in non pregnant (25.7 ± 23.3) than in pregnant multiparous goats (6.5 ± 15.9) (P < 0.01). However, when the binding rate is ≤ 5.12% (computerized distributions) multiparous goats exhibit estrus and pregnancy at levels not different from nulliparous or primiparous females (% estrus 95.8 vs 100 or 97.8%, % pregnancy 66.7 vs 70.3 and 63.0% respectively). Repeated use of PMSG during the female life or during one given year leads to active immunization against PMSG (as measured by percentage of binding of PMSG in plasma) decreasing the efficiency of ovarian stimulation out of breeding season. Inhalt: Einfluß einer wiederholten Progestagen/PMSG Behandlung zur Östruskontrolle außerhalb der Paarungssaison bei Milchziegen Um den Einfluß wiederholter Progestagen-PMSG-Behandlung zu prüfen, wurden Östrus und Trächtigkeitsergebnisse in einer Saanen Ziegenherde für das Jahr 1989 analysiert. Bei den untersuchten Tier en wird die Bedeckung jedes Jahr außerhalb der Saison nach FGA/PMSG-Behandlung vorgenommen. Nach der ersten Behandlung 1989 (169 Ziegen) war der Prozentsatz Ziegen, die einen Östrus zeigten und ablammten, bei 59 multiparen niedriger als bei 46 primiparen und 64 nulliparen Tieren. Darüber hinaus zeigten von 38 Ziegen nach einer zweiten Behandlung 1989 zu 44,7% einen Östrus gegenüber 71% nach der ersten Behandlung (p < 0,05). Die Bindungsfähigkeit für PMSG war bei der ersten Behandlung bei den multiparen Tieren höher (17,5 ± 23,1%) als bei nulli- und primiparen Tieren (-0,06 ± 0,7% und 1,2 ± 1,9%) und stieg für alle Tiere nach der Behandlung an (23,2 ± 26,4% nach zu 5,7 ± 15,0% vor der Behandlung, p < 0,01). Die PMSG Bindungsfähigkeit war nicht unterschiedlich bei tragenden und nichttragenden nulli- und primiparen Tieren. Dagegen waren die PMSG Bindungsraten bei nichttragenden Ziegen (25,7 ± 23,3%) höher als bei tragenden multiparen Tieren (6,5 ± 15,9%) (p < 0,01). Wenn allerdings die Bindungsraten unter 5,12% (Computerverteilung) sinkt, zeigen multipare Ziegen Östrus und Trächtigkeitsraten, die sich von multiparen und primiparen Tieren nicht unterscheiden (Östrus < 95,8% gegen 100 bzw. 97,8%; Trächtigkeit: 66,7% gegen 70,3 bzw. 63%). Wiederholter Gebrauch von PMSG, auch schon eine Applikation innerhalb eines Jahres führt zur Immunisierung gegenüber PMSG (gemessen an dem Prozentsatz Bindungsvermögen im Plasma) und senkt die Effektivität der ovariellen Stimulation außerhalb der Saison.     

Comparison of Synthetic Oviductal Fluid and G1/G2 Medium under Low‐1 Oxygen Atmosphere on Embryo Production and Pregnancy Rates in Nelore (Bos indicus) Cattle

In this work, we evaluated whether embryo development and pregnancy rates would be affected by culturing bovine Bos indicus embryos in Synthetic Oviductal Fluid with amino acids (SOFaa) or G1/G2 sequential medium under a low‐oxygen atmosphere. Using Ovum Pick Up, we obtained 1,538 oocytes, divided into G1/G2 (n = 783) and SOFaa (n = 755). No difference was observed for blastocyst development among the groups (27.8% ± 14.6 and 34.9% ± 20.0 for G1/G2 and SOFaa respectively, p > 0.05). Transferring the embryos (n = 450) from both groups to recipients resulted in similar pregnancy rates for the G1/G2 (38.4% n = 78/203) compared to the SOFaa (39.7% n = 98/247). Our findings confirm that Bos indicus embryos cultured in SOFaa and G1/G2 under low‐oxygen atmosphere have similar in vitro (blastocyst rate) and in vivo (pregnancy rate) developmental capacity. However, embryos cultured in G1/G2 medium have higher cleavage than those cultured in SOFaa medium.