Effect of Sex Sorted Semen in Synchronized Estrus on Pregnancy Rate and Female Ratio in Gir Cows

Background: At present there is huge demand for Gir cow females however, prolonged inter calving period, more inseminations per conception and post-partum anestrus are the predominant reproductive disorder along with use of unsexed semen limit the birth of more females in Gir cows. The present research study was conducted to study the effect of sex sorted semen in synchronized estrus with Ovsynch protocol on pregnancy rate and gender ratio in Gir cows. Methods: Total twenty Gir cows that have completed post-partum period of sixty days with normal reproductive genitalia, without clinical as well as subclinical infection were selected and divided into two equal groups. The cows from both the groups were synchronized with Ovsynch protocol. In Group- I (n=10), the cows were inseminated with sex sorted semen while in Group-II, the cows were inseminated with coneventional semen. The pregnancy rate and gender ratio was recorded. Result: Efficacy of estrus synchronization was 100.00 per cent for Gir cows treated by Ovsynch protocol in both groups. The pregnancy rate was numerically lower after AI with sex sorted semen (40%) than conventional semen (50%) and results are non significant (P less than 0.05) with 100% calving rate. The proportion of female calves born from sex sorted semen AI was 75% and from conventional semen was 60%. The proportion of live calves born from sex sorted and conventional semen AI was 100%. The sex sorted semen may be used in Ovsynch protocol in Gir cows.

POST-PARTUM SUB-CLINICAL ENDOMETRITIS- ALTERATION IN UTERINE HAEMODYNAMICS, INFLAMMATORY MARKERS ON TREATMENT WITH MODIFIED ESTRUS SYNCHRONIZATION PROTOCOLS IN DAIRY COWS

Forty-one dairy cows (n=41) were enrolled to envisage the changes in uterine haemodynamics during sub-clinical endometritis (SCE) and its treatment with modified estrus synchronization protocols at 8 weeks post-partum. Trans-rectal Doppler sonography of both the middle uterine arteries (MUAs) was carried out for assessment of uterine perfusion whereas serum inflammatory markers i.e. IL-6 and C-RP were measured at 8 weeks post-partum and estrus (induced or spontaneous). Modified estrus synchronization protocols (MG6G and MG6GP) were used to adjudge their efficacy in post-partum dairy cows diagnosed with SCE and reproductive parameters were recorded. As a part of result, Doppler indices of both the MUAs at estrus i.e. TAMEAN, TAMAX, Blood flow volume-TAMEAN and TAMAX and diameter of MUA, were significantly lower (P<0.05) after application of MG6G and MG6GP protocols in SCEP as compared to SCEP control cows. Similarly, the IL-6, C-RP concentrations and PMNCs proportion (%) were significantly higher (P<0.05) in SCEP control as compared to cows treated with MG6G and MG6GP protocols. Moreover, on the day of estrus, the uterine haemodynamics, concentration of serum inflammatory markers and PMNCs proportion (%) in treated cows was at par with SCE negative control (SCEN) cows. In terms of reproductive performance, days open were recorded to be significantly lower (P<0.01) in treated and SCEN group as compared to SCEP control cows. In conclusion, sub-clinical endometritis led higher uterine perfusion, release of proinflammatory cytokines and PMNCs proportion which happened to plummet the post-partum reproductive performance was successfully managed with modified estrus synchronization protocols.

Assessment of Breeding Practice and Statues of Estrus Synchronization and Mass Insemination Conception Rate of Dairy Cattle in North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.

BackgroundAssisted reproductive biotechnology like oestrus synchronization mass insemination(OSMI), and artificial insemination (AI) are the most important bio techniques for improving the reproductive and productive performance of dairy cattle including enhancing overall profit in Ethiopia. In North Shewa zone different study were conducted. However, there is no study conducted on breeding practice, and status of OSMI conception rate of dairy cattle. Therefore the aim of this study to assess breeding practice, and status of OSMI conception rate of dairy cattle in North Shewa zone.MethodsOut of 27 districts, three district and 135 respondents were selected purposive followed by random sampling techniques per each district. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and Ms-Excel (2010).ResultMilk yield, High growth rate, body weight, fertility and udder size were the major traits perceived by farmers. Breed preference of the respondents were HHFC and HFC in Basonaworena and Angolelanatera ranked first. Breeding objective and rearing system of cattle were milk production with sale of calves and all cattle categories reared together except HHFC and lactating cows respectively. Most of the respondents were used AI mating system due to rapid genetic improvement. HHFC and HJERC bulls breed were not available in the study area as a result alternative strategies taken by the respondents was take cows in other kebele. Reproductive performance of dairy cattle per district and breeds were statistically significant. 86.6% of respondents were not maintained mating and pedigree records due to lack of awareness. Heat detection problem and AIT efficiency were the major factor that affect CR in OSMI program. The perception and satisfaction of farmer on CR of OSMI (34.4%) was not good and (67.1%) not satisfied respectively. The selection criteria of cows for OSMI program (58.9%) of respondents were not aware. The status of CR and NSPC per district, breed and year were vary (p<0.05) in table16 in OSMI program.ConclusionIn conclusion that the status of CR was increasing starting 2013/14-2015/16 in OSMI. In addition creation of farmer’s awareness on breeding aspects as well as OSMI is mandatory. Finally empowering the AI technician efficiency and procurement of the necessary facilities should be in place before implementing an OSMI.

Effects of FecB Mutation on Estrus, Ovulation, and Endocrine Characteristics in Small Tail Han Sheep

The Booroola fecundity gene (FecB) has a mutation that was found to increase the ovulation rate and litter size in Booroola Merino sheep. This mutation is also associated with the fecundity of small-tail han (STH) sheep, an important maternal breed used to produce hybrid offspring for mutton production in China. Previous research showed that the FecB gene affects reproduction in STH sheep, based on litter size records. However, the effects of this gene on estrus, ovulation, and endocrine characteristics in these sheep remain unclear. Here, we analyzed the traits mentioned earlier and compared them among the three FecB genotypes of STH ewes using estrus synchronization. Overall, 53 pluriparous ewes were selected from among 890 STH ewes and subjected to FecB genotyping for experiments to characterize estrous and ovulation rates. FecB heterozygous (+B) ewes presented an earlier onset of estrus (42.9 ± 2.2 h) and a shorter estrous cycle (17.2 ± 0.2 days) (P ≤ 0.05). The ovulation rates increased with the increasing copy number of the B allele (P ≤ 0.01). Ovulation time showed no significant differences among the three FecB genotypes. The serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone, estrogen (E2), and progesterone (P4) were measured in 19 of the ewes. Serum concentrations of E2 and FSH dramatically varied around the time of behavioral estrus. In FecB mutant homozygous (BB) ewes, E2 concentration had two peaks, which were higher (P ≤ 0.05) than those of ++ genotypes. FSH concentration of BB ewes was higher (P ≤ 0.05) than that of the ++ ewes just after estrus. The expression of the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene in the +B genotype was higher than in the other genotypes. Based on the data for the reproductive performance of STH ewes with the three FecB genotypes, our study suggests that the development of follicles in ewes with the B allele is dependent on the response to FSH regulated by E2 in the early stage. +B ewes, exhibiting moderate ovulation and litter size and a shorter estrous cycle, can be highly recommended in sheep crossbreeding systems for commercial mutton production. Moreover, this study provides useful information to conserve better and use the genetic resources of STH sheep in China.

The Comparison Between Reproductive Performance in Synchronized and Spontaneous Estrus Sheep

Purpose: The objective of the present study was to compare the reproductive performance in synchronized and spontaneous estrus sheep raised under farm conditions. Subjects and Method: Two hundred Karadi and Two hundred Awassi were used in this study. Of each breed, 100 ewes were allowed to come in estrus spontaneously and the other 100 ewes were synchronized using intravaginal sponges (ESPONJAVET, HIPRA, Amer, Girona, SPAIN). Ewes were injected with intramuscular injection of 500 IU of PMSG when sponges were removed on day 14. Results: This study revealed that estrus synchronization had a higher rate of lambing (P=0.014), twining (P<0.001), dystocia (P=0.024), and barrenness (P=0.012) in Karadi ewes. Estrus synchronization also had a significantly higher rate of lambing (P=0.018), twining (P=0.017), abortion (P<0.001), barrenness (P=0.012) and productivity (P=0.010) in Awassi ewes. the result of the current study shows that the barrenness rate was higher in spontaneously ovulated ewes compared to synchronized Awassi ewes. The result of the current study shows that the abortion rate was higher in spontaneous ewes compared to synchronized ewes. The twinning rate was higher in synchronized compared to spontaneous Karadi ewes. Conclusion: In both breeds, synchronized ewes had higher reproductive efficiency compared to ewes that had spontaneous estrus.

The effectiveness of prostaglandin nanoparticles in corpus luteum regression

Research examined the formation of prostaglandin nanoparticles and their effect on corpus luteum (CL) regression carried out at IRIAP. The nanoparticles formation was carried out using the ionic gelation method. The nanoparticles have a particle size of 316.80±0.14 nm, polydispersion index of 0,453±0,001, zeta potential of +17,40±0,85 mV with 69,69±8.81% hormone entrapment. The effectiveness of nanoparticle in CL regression was observed (prostaglandin vs prostaglandin nanoparticles) using ultrasound observation, hormone profile and estrus response. Further, the size of the ovulating follicle, the time of ovulation, the size of the CL and the onset of estrus after the administration of the prostaglandins were observed. The observation showed that the intramuscular administration of prostaglandin and prostaglandin nanoparticles did not significantly differ on the onset of estrus, time of ovulation, the ovulating follicle size, size of CL and progesterone concentration. The onset of estrus occurred on 2.50 ± 0.58 and 2.33 ± 0.52 days, the ovulation time after hormone administration was on days 3.50 ± 0.55 and 2.83 ± 0.75 with the ovulation follicle size of 16, 62 ± 0.96 and 17.03 ± 1.13 mm, while the CL measures at H-3 were 13.56 ± 2.28 and 10.45 ± 0.88, the progesterone H-2 concentrations were 0.299 and 0.395, respectively for prostaglandin and prostaglandin nanoparticles. It can be concluded that the formation of nanoparticles did not impair the effectiveness of hormones in CL regression so that it can be used to increase the effectiveness of estrus synchronization

Estrus Prediction Models for Dairy Gyr Heifers

Technological devices are increasingly present in livestock activities, such as identifying the reproductive status of cows. For this, predictive models must be accurate and usable in the productive context. The aims of this study were to evaluate estrus-associated changes in reticulo-rumen temperature (RRT) and activity (ACT) in Dairy Gyr heifers provided by reticulo-rumen boluses and to test the ability of different models for estrus prediction. The RRT and ACT of 45 heifers submitted to estrus synchronization were recorded using reticulo-rumen boluses. The means of RRT and ACT at different time intervals were compared between the day before and the day of estrus manifestation. An analysis of variance of RRT and ACT was performed using mixed models. A second approach employed logistic regression, random forest, and linear discriminant analysis models using RRT, ACT, time of day, and the temperature-humidity index (THI) as predictors. There was an increase in RRT and ACT at estrus (p < 0.05) compared to the same period on the day before and on the day after estrus. The random forest model provided the best performance values with a sensitivity of 51.69% and specificity of 93.1%. The present results suggest that RRT and ACT contribute to the identification of estrus in Dairy Gyr heifers.

Administration of royal jelly in estrus synchronization protocols for wool and hair sheep

Objective: To assess the most relevant results on the usage of royal jelly in reproductive protocols of wool and hair sheep. Design/methodology/approach: A review of studies referenced and published in scientific databases regard the livestock sector. Results: In ewes, administration of “royal jelly” in addition to reproductive management protocols improves the response to estrus synchronization, time of onset and duration of estrus, number of large follicles, ovulatory rate and gestation rate. Study limitations/implications: Royal jelly is a substance with beneficial effects on reproductive variables in ewes; however, the cost may be a limitation for its incorporation in synchronization protocols. Additionally, it is necessary to clarify the active metabolites that exert the action and the most effective route of administration. Findings/conclusions: Royal jelly can be an alternative incorporated to estrus synchronization programs in ewes to substitute some hormones without decreasing reproductive variables.

PSV-3 Ovarian dynamics of brahman cows submitted to five-day or twelve-day progesterone-based estrus synchronization protocol

The aim of this study was to investigate the ovarian response of Brahman cows submitted to two different estrus synchronization protocols and to determine the estrus response and ovulation time. A total of 153 Brahman cows were randomly assigned to receive one of the following estrus synchronization protocols: 1) CIDR insert and an injection of prostaglandin F2α (25 mg, PGF) on Day -5 and CIDR removal with PGF on Day 0 (CIDR5; n = 77); 2) CIDR insert on Day -12 and an injection of PGF on Day -12, Day -5 and Day 0 upon CIDR removal (CIDR12; n = 76). Estrotect breeding indicator patches were placed on Day 0 and cows were artificially inseminated (AI) 12h after estrus detection; cows not detected in estrus after 96h received TAI coupled with 100 µg of GnRH. Ovarian dynamics were observed during the protocol and follicular diameter were measured every 12h after AI until ovulation. Cows synchronized with CIDR12 had increased follicular diameter (CIDR5, 10.19 ± 0.51 vs. CIDR12, 13.12 ± 0.52 mm; P = 0.01) and decreased serum concentrations of progesterone (CIDR5, 1.68 ± 0.12 vs. CIDR12, 0.81 ± 0.12 ng/ml; P &lt; 0.01) at CIDR removal. The percentage of cows exhibiting estrus did not differ between treatments (CIDR5, 66.2 vs. CIDR12, 64.5%; P = 0.25). No difference was observed in ovulation rate (CIDR5, 94.1 vs. CIDR12, 94.1%; P = 0.6). Time of estrus expression and ovulation time after CIDR removal did not differ (CIDR5, 59.9 ± 2.3 vs. CIDR12, 61.5 ± 2.3h; P = 0.71 and CIDR5, 88.1 ± 2.6 vs. CIDR12, 90.9 ± 2.6h; P = 0.75; respectively). In conclusion, extended length of CIDR with additional PGF increased follicular diameter and decreased concentrations of progesterone but did not influence estrus response and ovulation time in Brahman cows.

PSXII-16 Fertility affects in yearling beef heifers grazing triticale before artificial insemination

Our objective was to compare two systems of pre-breeding heifer development, drylot (D) or grazing winter triticale (T) on heifer fertility. In each of 4 years (yr), Black Angus heifers (n = 168, 86, 97 and 103, respectively) were allotted to treatment (trt) 32 to 50 days (d) prior to artificial insemination (AI). Each year a 14-d CIDR PG protocol was used to synchronize estrus (d-30 to d-16: 1.38 g progesterone intravaginal insert, CIDR; d 0: 25 mg dinoprost tromethamine injection; + 66 hours: 100 µg gonadorelin hydrochloride injection, and AI). Starting body weight and body condition were similar between treatments but differed by year (P &lt; 0.01). After CIDR removal, 83% were in estrus by d -10 and did not differ with trt or yr. Weight at AI was greater (P &lt; 0.01) for T (384 kg ± 2) than D (378 kg ± 2) with a trt by yr interaction. Body condition change between start of treatment and AI was greater (P &lt; 0.01) for T (0.44 ± 0.03) than D (-0.02 ± 0.04) with a trt by yr interaction (P &lt; 0.01) due to the magnitude of difference. A trt by yr interaction occurred for estrous response before AI (P &lt; 0.01). Treatment means for AIPR were 59.1% (143/242) for D and 42.1% (101/240) for T (trt; P &lt; 0.01). AIPR was similar between treatments in yr 1 and higher for D than T in subsequent yr (trt x yr, P &lt; 0.05). Blood urea nitrogen was greater (P &lt; 0.05) in T than D on d 0 and at AI. At the time of AI, triticale was more mature in yr 1 when there was no difference in AIPR. Grazing triticale during estrus synchronization and AI resulted in acceptable gains but decreased fertility in yearling beef heifers.