Artificial Insemination Technology Research Articles

Genome editing to the rescue: sustainably feeding 10 billion global human population

Modern animal breeding strategies based on population genetics, molecular tools, artificial insemination, embryo transfer and related technologies have contributed to significant increases in the performance of domestic animals, and are the basis for a regular supply of high quality animal derived food at acceptable prices. However, the current strategy of marker- assisted selection and breeding of animals to introduce novel traits over multiple generations is too pedestrian in responding to unprecedented challenges such as climate change, global pandemics, and feeding an anticipated 33% increase in global population in the next three decades. Here, we propose site-specific genome editing technologies as a basis for “directed” or “rational selection” of agricultural traits. The animal science community envisions genome editing as an essential tool in addressing critical priorities for global food security and environmental sustainability, and seeks additional funding support for development and implementation of these technologies for maximum societal benefit.

Factors affecting Small Dairy Farmers Adoption and Intensity of Adoption of Artificial Insemination Technology, A Case Study of Southern Ethiopia

Factors affecting Small Dairy Farmers Adoption and Intensity of Adoption of Artificial Insemination Technology, A Case Study of Southern Ethiopia

Tingkat Adopsi Inovasi Ib (Inseminasi Buatan) Pada Peternak Sapi Potong Di Kecamatan Lalabata Kabupaten Soppeng Adoption Of Innovation Ai ( Artificial Insemination ) Breeder In

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which farmers in adopting the technology of artificial insemination by measuring the time it takes breeders from receipt of the information to be applied , the quality of AI ( Application and recommendation ) , and Area Applied IB in cattle . The research was conducted in August - September 2014 against 30 respondents from 30 populations breeders who use technology AI ( Artificial Insemination ) . Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics by using tables Distribution Frekuwensi results showed adoption rate of technological innovation Artificial Insemination ( AI ) in beef cattle farms in the district Lalabata Soppeng ie Stage time is needed breeders from the receipt of the information to be obtained on application High category in the sense of the ability of farmers to adopt an innovation has been rapid , stage area located on the application of Low Category this suggests that the broad application of the implementation of the AI in the district as a whole Lalabata the breeder has done these activities , but not all animals in peliharanya apply technology Artificial Insemination ( AI ) , and Phase AI quality is in the category Medium this suggests that the quality of AI in District Lalabata Soppeng ie almost entirely of farmers already know the signs of estrus in livestock before conducting AI. Keywords : Adoption Levels , Artificial Insemination , Beef Cattle Breeders

Tingkat Adopsi Inovasi Ib (Inseminasi Buatan) Pada Peternak Sapi Potong Di Kecamatan Lalabata Kabupaten Soppeng Adoption Of Innovation Ai ( Artificial Insemination ) Breeder In

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which farmers in adopting the technology of artificial insemination by measuring the time it takes breeders from receipt of the information to be applied , the quality of AI ( Application and recommendation ) , and Area Applied IB in cattle . The research was conducted in August - September 2014 against 30 respondents from 30 populations breeders who use technology AI ( Artificial Insemination ) . Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics by using tables Distribution Frekuwensi results showed adoption rate of technological innovation Artificial Insemination ( AI ) in beef cattle farms in the district Lalabata Soppeng ie Stage time is needed breeders from the receipt of the information to be obtained on application High category in the sense of the ability of farmers to adopt an innovation has been rapid , stage area located on the application of Low Category this suggests that the broad application of the implementation of the AI in the district as a whole Lalabata the breeder has done these activities , but not all animals in peliharanya apply technology Artificial Insemination ( AI ) , and Phase AI quality is in the category Medium this suggests that the quality of AI in District Lalabata Soppeng ie almost entirely of farmers already know the signs of estrus in livestock before conducting AI. Keywords : Adoption Levels , Artificial Insemination , Beef Cattle Breeders

Semen collection, evaluation and fertile period in Khaki Campbell and White Pekin breeds of ducks

Collection and evaluation of semen are the first critical steps for examination of male fertility, gamete preservation and development of artificial insemination technology in ducks. Induced teaser method and manual massage method of semen collection were evaluated for the ease and reaction time in White Pekin and Khaki Campbell breeds of ducks. Semen characteristics and length of fertile period were examined in both the breeds. Method of semen collection in both the breeds of ducks did not affect semen volume and quality parameters. However, reaction time and hypo-osmotic swollen spermatozoa percent differed significantly with the method of semen collection. The length of fertile period in White Pekin is longer than Khaki Campbell ducks during artificial insemination while it was reverse during natural mating. Our findings indicated that manual message method of semen collection in ducks may be practised for a successful artificial insemination programme as the drakes can be habituated for the semen collection by massage method and donate semen quickly without much difficulty and alteration in semen quality.

Enhancing captive Indian rhinoceros genetics via artificial insemination of cryopreserved sperm

The objective of this study was to design an artificial insemination (AI) protocol using cryopreserved spermatozoa to obtain pregnancies in captive Indian rhinoceroses (Rhinoceros unicornis). Four methods developed varied by timing and approach, as follows; Method 1: females (n=2) were inseminated pre- and post-ovulation under general anesthesia, Method 2: females (n=2) were inseminated pre-ovulation without anesthetic via endoscopy, Method 3: females (n=1) were inseminated pre-ovulation without anesthetic via manual insertion of an insemination catheter, Method 4: females (n=2) were inseminated same as Method 3 with the addition of standing sedation. Semen deposition site varied as a result of changes in AI technology and experience. All females conceived following intrauterine AI using three methods. Four pregnancies (n=3 females) produced via Method 3 and 4 resulted in term births (n=2 male calves, n=2 female calves) at 481.8±12.8days post-AI. Unfortunately, two early pregnancy losses were documented in a fourth female conceiving via Method 2. Pregnancy rates were 0%, 22%, 17%, and 50% for Method 1–4, respectively. Method 3 and 4 rates improved to 29% and 67%, respectively when accounting for AI’s conducted only on ovulatory estrous cycles. Spermatozoa (n=5 males) were cryopreserved 0.3–9.3 y prior to successful AI procedures. The lowest dose of frozen-thawed sperm resulting in conception was 500×106 motile sperm. Mean time from AI to ovulation in conceptive and non-conceptive cycles was 26±11.8h and 66±80.7h, respectively.

Reproductive Problems in Commercial Pig Farms

The main goal of commercial pig production is to produce as much fattened pigs per sow per year as possible. Farm productivity depends from at least 3 mutually related parameters which are: 1)     Health status of pig population. It depends from health status and biosecurity protocols. 2)     Farm management. It implies adequate level of knowledge, experience and ability to manage with farm production. With aim to have a lot of success in the pig farm production,all that mentioned before is needed to achieve a harmonization of available capacities, conditions concerning housing of animals and farm equipment with genetic potential and health status of a herd. 3)     Quality feeding of all pig categories using high quality feeds and adequate technology. Reproductive properties are basic of pig production but there is also a need to define performances which are important for breeders. If we consider females, especially is important the number of ovulated oocytes, the number of fertilized oocytes and number of pregnant gilts/sows (the percentage of conception). All this is resulting in a number of live born piglets per sow or boar and a number of weaned piglets. Artificial insemination serve to enable maximum utilization of animal genetic potential. That is possible to achieve by applyingadequate and controlled conditions of housing, care, feeding and health monitoring along with implementation of modern management. During recent years there have been a large import of genetic superior animals in big and medium farms in Serbia in order to raise productivity and profitability of pig production. Expected production results on healthy farms implies farrowing rate of over 90% with 18 born piglets, 16 weaned piglets per litter, 37 piglets per sow per year and 31 fattened pigs per sow per year. This results are achieved on modern farms in countries which invest a lot in pig production, but in Serbia are a rarity. Poor final results of the local farms are the consequence of unintentional mistakes in production, both in terms of health care and management, technology and nutrition. As well, the technology of artificial insemination is a significant factor. By analyzing of all factors which may cause reproductive problems on farms, we concluded that reproduction results can be improved by modern solutions from the domain of boar exploitation, technology of semen production and examination and technology of breeding sows insemination. Fertilizing potential of boars depends of amount and quality of ejaculate. Motility and viability of spermatozoa to a large extent determine the quality parameters of sperm. Spermatozoa should move from the place of ejaculation through the reproductive tract of sows to the site of fertilization and to be capable to fertilize the oocytes at the right moment.Percentage of dead and deformed spermatozoa is an important factor which influences fertilization ability of boars. Besides routine macroscopic assessment and microscopic examination of semen, it is recommended to do smears and determine pathological forms of spermatozoa. It allows that bad quality semen can be excluded timely. Implementation of proper hygienic measures with the use of disposable equipment is required. By applying of all this specified measures during 12 months, we achieved improving of sows’ conception rate for 7% andthe number of weaned piglets per litter raised for 0.6.

MALE REPRODUCTIVE PHYSIOLOGY AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION IN THE MAGELLANIC PENGUIN (SPHENISCUS MAGELLANICUS) USING CHILLED-STORED SEMEN.

Research was performed to increase our understanding of male Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) reproductive biology and to develop artificial insemination (AI) technology to assist with maintaining the species' genetic diversity. Seminal traits were characterized from seven males with noncontaminated ejaculates (n = 123) displaying high in vitro motion parameters, membrane integrity, and morphology. Seven females were maintained in nest sites that permitted visual, auditory, and tactile contact with their paired male but not copulation for 18.3 ± 2.4 days before egg lay. After cloacal AI (2.6 ± 0.4 inseminations/female) with semen chilled for up to 20.5 hr at 5°C, all females produced one to two fertile eggs, with the first oviposition occurring within 7 days of plasma progesterone concentrations exceeding 0.8 ng/ml. Overall fertility was 91.7%, hatchability was 63.6%, and genetic analyses confirmed that all embryos and hatchlings were sired by AI males. The heterospermic AI design demonstrated that eggs were fertilized by spermatozoa chilled for 1.5-19.8 hr before AI and were laid 4.5-11.5 days post AI. These results contribute new data on Magellanic penguin sperm biology and demonstrate that high fertility rates after AI of chilled semen can be achieved with females remaining in proximity to their paired mate.

MAIN FACTORS AFFECTING MARE INSEMINATION WITH CRYOPRESERVED DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN SPERM

Artificial insemination (AI) has the following advantages over natural mating: fast selection effect, easy transportation, wide dissemination of valuable genetic material, economic use of semen and rational use of sires, preventing sexually transmitted infections, reserving sperm in cryobanks. Among the factors influencing the result of AI in horse breeding are time, frequency rate and insemination repetition, quality and quantity of semen, the depth of insertion of semen into the uterus of a mare, the observance of temperature mode and sanitary regulations during AI procedure, the reproductive performance of mares. There are two main approaches to freezing of stallion sperm and thus two AI technologies for semen packaging and equipment for its introduction into the uterus of mares. The first approach worked out and used in Russia is based on a sparing mode of semen cryopreservation in large volumes, 20-25 ml per dose. The second method, developed abroad, provides pre-treatment of sperm by centrifugation and maximum removal of semen plasma. In another procedure currently used in Russia the small volumes (5-6 ml) of semen are cryopreserved after centrifugation, removal of 50-60 % of semen plasma and thickening semen by dialysis. In recent years frozen semen of stallions from Europe and America is being actively imported to Russia. Despite the technological differences, domestic and foreign approaches to the cryopreservation of stallion’s semen provide its similar qualitative characteristics after thawing. The aim of our research was to identify the most significant factors affecting pregnancy rates in artificially inseminated mares when domestic and foreign protocols were used to freeze sperm. Herein, an impact of five such factors (i.e. sperm packing/cryopreservation technology, time of insemination, reproductive state and gynecological soundness of the mares, the activity of sperm) on the effectiveness of AI with frozen semen was estimated in mares of various breeds (Arabian, Akhal-Teke, Trakehner, Hanoverian, Russian Riding horse, American Standardbred, Russian Trotter and Orlov Trotter). Experiments were carried out in 2012 to 2014 at Tersk stud, at a private farm (Mr. A.A. Kazakov the owner) and at experimental stable of the All-Russian Research Institute for Horse Breeding. We compared the data on 106 estrus cycles of 53 mares, artificially inseminated with domestic (granules and tubes of 5 ml and 15-25 ml) and foreign frozen semen (0.5 ml in straws). All used sperm doses in various packages were divided into two groups with the activity above and below 1.5 points (15 %). The time recommended for AI with frozen semen was divided into three intervals (12 h before ovulation, during ovulation, 6 h after ovulation). The animals were conventionally grouped as barren and maiden mares, lactating mares, mares after late (6 or more months of pregnancy) abortion, and also with regard to absence or presence of gynecological pathologies such as vaginal discharge, fluid and air in the uterus, mating-induced endometritis. The effectiveness of artificial insemination was evaluated with regard to pregnancy rate, occurred abortions number and successful foaling. So, two of five factors analyzed were found out to determine reliably a successful AI with frozen semen at high significance level (p < 0.001). They were the sperm activity of  15 % and healthy mares with no pathology observed. Cryopreservation technology, the type of sperm doses’ packaging and also the mare’s reproductive status (i.e. barren, maiden, lactating or after late abortion) are of secondary importance. It is shown that mares’ artificial insemination with one dose of semen during the 6-hour period after ovulation provides the same pregnancy rate (67.7 %) as insemination during the 12-hour period before ovulation (65.0 %) or insemination at the time when the ovum is released from a follicle.

New Artificial Insemination Technologies for Swine.

Better efficiency in swine artificial insemination (AI) is accomplished by reducing the necessary number of sperm cells and achieving high reproductive performance. Some strategies have been developed for use under field conditions, such as the site of sperm deposition (post-cervical AI), a single AI with control of oestrus and ovulation (fixed-time AI), and the better use of high genetic merit boars, to spread their genes as much as possible. To apply these technologies, it is important to understand some anatomical limits, physiological aspects and farm requirements. In this review, we point out some strategies to achieve higher efficiency on the use of sperm for AI technology application in swine species.

A limited number of Y chromosome lineages is present in North American Holsteins

Holsteins are the most numerous dairy cattle breed in North America and the breed has undergone intensive selection for improving milk production and conformation. Theoretically, this intensive selection could lead to a reduction of the effective population size and reduced genetic diversity. The objective of this study was to investigate the effective population size of the Holstein Y chromosome and the effects of limited Y chromosome lineages on male reproduction and the future of the breed. Paternal pedigree information of 62,897 Holstein bulls born between 1950 and 2013 in North America and 220,872 bulls evaluated by multiple-trait across-country genetic evaluations of Interbull (Uppsala, Sweden) were collected and analyzed. The results indicated that the number of Y chromosome lineages in Holsteins has undergone a dramatic decrease during the past 50 years because of artificial selection and the application of artificial insemination (AI) technology. All current Holstein AI bulls in North America are the descendants of only 2 ancestors (Hulleman and Neptune H) born in 1880. These 2 ancestral Y-lineages are continued through 3 dominant pedigrees from the 1960s; namely, Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief, Round Oak Rag Apple Elevation, and Penstate Ivanhoe Star, with a contribution of 48.78, 51.06, and 0.16% to the Holstein bull population in the 2010s, respectively. The Y-lineage of Penstate Ivanhoe Star is almost eliminated from the breed. The genetic variations in the 2 ancestral Y-lineages were evaluated among 257 bulls by determining the copy number variations (CNV) of 3 Y-linked gene families: PRAMEY, HSFY, and ZNF280BY, which are spread along the majority (95%) of the bovine Y chromosome male-specific region (MSY). No significant difference was found between the 2 ancestral Y-lineages, although large CNV were observed within each lineage. This study suggests minimal genetic diversity on the Y chromosome in Holsteins and provides a starting point for investigating the effect of the extremely limited number of Y-lineages on male reproduction and other traits important for the future of the Holstein breed.

Efforts to Increase the Success Rate of Artificial Insemination on Small Ruminant

The success rate of artificial insemination (AI) technology in Indonesia is still low, especially on small ruminants. At experimental station condition, it was reported that the success rate of intrauterine AI was high (78.9% lambing percentage), while intracervix AI technique was still low (47.6% lambing percentage). Various things that could affect the success rate of AI program are discussed in this paper. Efforts to improve the success of artificial insemination in small ruminants (goats and sheep) can be done through the selection of productive female with good reproductive cycle, accurate dose of hormonal synchronization, followed by proper estrous detection and semen placement at the right time. Each stage is still open for more detailed study in order to obtain satisfactory results. Key words: Artificial insemination, small ruminant, success rate

Factors and Diseases Influencing Dairy Goats Production among Small Scale Farmers in Laikipia East District, Kenya

Dairy goats are reared in Kenya in order to produce milk, meat and leather and thus improve food security and income of farmers. The dairy goat development in Kenya has been growing slowly although the government initiated several projects in late 1970s in order to improve dairy goat stock for distribution to farmers. The dairy goat sector has also been growing slowly and there is reduced milk production in Laikipia East District although the dairy goats were introduced in 2005 and the District is endowed with suitable climate for dairy goat production. A study was therefore conducted in order to establish factors and diseases which influence production of dairy goats among small scale farmers in Laikipia East District since limited information is available in this area. The objectives of the study were to determine social economics factors, breeding methods and diseases which influence production of dairy goats among small scale farmers in Laikipia East District. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey design and 170 small scale farmers. Questionnaires and interview schedules were utilized to collect primary data from the respondents and data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The response rate obtained in the study was excellent since 167 out of 170 respondents filled and returned the questionnaires The results showed that majority (61.7%, N=167) of the respondents were females and majority (66.3%) of farmers were over 49 years while youth (18-34 years) comprised only 10.6%. Majority (50%) of the respondents had primary level of education. The average house hold size was 7 members and 88.3% of the respondents earned livelihood from the farming only. The results on production showed that majority (53.1%) of the farmers kept Alpine breed while 18.5% of the farmers kept Toggenberg breed. The results indicate that 49.4% of farmers had 1-2 goats in lactation and 43.8% of the farmers did not have a goat in lactation. A total of 54% of the respondents indicated that the average daily milk production per doe was less than 1 liter and 82.1% of the respondents used milk for household consumption. The findings on the methods of breeding showed that 94.4% of the respondents used natural mating of goats while 5.6% used Artificial Insemination (A.I). The first mating age of the does was about 1.5 years. The results indicate that 50% of the respondents were aware of artificial insemination technology while 71.6% indicated that (A.I) technology was not available in most areas of the District. The results on diseases indicate that 52.5% of the respondents had encountered diseases in their flock within one year. The important diseases found in the district included diarrhoea, eye infections, pneumonia, bloat, mastitis, heartwater and Contagious Caprine Pleural Pneumonia. It was only 40.1% of the flock which had been vaccinated against ontagious Caprine Pleural Pneumonia and 30.2% of the respondents reported that they were not aware of the vaccination schedule. The findings on the control of parasites indicate that 57.4% of the farmers dewormed goats after 3 months while 64.8% of the respondents controlled ticks once a week. In conclusion, this study shows that social economic factors, adaption of breeding technology, diseases, and pests influence dairy goat and milk production in Laikipia East District.

Highlights on Artificial Insemination (AI) Technology in the Pigs

Abstract Over the past decade, there has been a tremendous increase in the development of field AI services in the majority of countries concerned with pig production. The objective of this paper is to review: (a) the current status of swine AI in the world, (b) significance and limitation of AI with liquid and frozen semen, (c) the biological traits of porcine semen in relation to in vitro sperm storage, (d) the criteria used for selection of a boar stud as a semen supplier, (e) how to process boar semen for liquid and frozen storage in the commercial settings and (f) how to improve fertility and prolificacy of boar semen. More than 99% of the inseminations conducted worldwide are made with liquid-stored semen. AI with frozen semen is used only for upgrading the genetic base in a particular country or herd. Determining the initial quality of semen ejaculates along with the selection of the optimum storage extender has a profound effect on the quality and fertility of AI doses. Different procedures have been used for improving the fertility of preserved spermatozoa including colloidal centrifugation of the semen, intrauterine insemination and modulation of the uterine defense mechanism after AI. Development of an efficient protocol for synchronizing the time of ovulation in sows and gilts coupled with improving uterine horn insemination technique will make a breakthrough in the commercial use of frozen boar semen.

Artificial Insemination (AI) in Swine and New Product Development (NPD)

The main contribution of this study to knowledge is that it has enriched our understanding on various thoughts that have shaped artificial insemination technology adaptability and practice. The debates in this area have strengthened its application to new product development in a developing economy like Nigeria. Such application has consequences for developing optimal strategies by the stakeholders for enhancing sustainable product development. Equally, it helps to understand the general views and positions of the stakeholders in agriculture marketing on what would be the market potentials of a new technology in a developing market like Nigeria. By and large the study examines the views of stakeholders in order to determine the success and acceptability of AI technology among farmers and other stakeholders in Nigerian market.

The Effect Of Socio-Economic Characteristics Of Cattle Farmers On The Adoption Of Artificial Insemination Technology In Kaduna State Of Nigeria

This study examined the effect of socio-economic characteristics of cattle farmers on the adoption of Artificial Insemination Technology in Kaduna State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty respondents were purposively selected for the study, drawing 30 respondents each from the four zonal offices of the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Programme (KADP). The design of the study was a cross sectional survey. Questionnaires were used to collect the data from the respondents. Of the 120 questionnaires administered, 116 were retrieved. The data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The result of the descriptive statistics reveal that 100% of the respondents were males and the average age of the respondents was 57.38 years with an average household size of 13.5. About 89% of the respondents had attended quoranic/adult education and they were majorly pastoralists (88.79%) They had a mean farming experience and herd size of 31.72 and 78.29 respectively. The t-test result revealed that educational attainment, herd size and age had a significant and linear relationship with adoption of AI at p<0.05. It was recommended that more enlightenment be done on AI, its services be subsidized and that the coordinating agency be decentralized. I. Introduction Africa has 16% of the world's dairy livestock but produces less than 4% of global milk production with an average cow producing only 454 litres per year compared to 5630 litres for top producing cows in the European Union (EU). This is in spite of the fact that livestock products account for 25-35% of agricultural production in Africa (USDA, 2006). This low level of milk production in Africa can be attributed to a number of constraints that include low quality dairy breeds, limitation imposed by harsh environmental conditions such as high ambient temperatures, high incidence of diseases and parasites and poor nutrition (Gefu, 1989). An equally important factor is the generally low level application of modern technology in the management of dairy cattle, particularly am, nong the small holder dairy farms. Artificial Insemination (AI) is one such technology that can solve these constraints if the necessary conditions are put in place to spur poor rural farmers to adopt the technology. Artificial insemination (AI) has been used for improvement of livestock production in developed countries. Its use in developing countries has been reported in several literature to be less widespread and the result obtained are far from been satisfactory (Butswat and Choji, 1995). Under tropical small farm conditions, a number of socio-economic, organizational, biological and technical factors make the service more difficult to provide. If the major constraints can be identified and overcome, the technology would become more widely adopted and contribute to an increased production of milk and meat, leading to better food securities and poverty alleviation. Nigeria's livestock resource base consists of about 15.4 million cattle, 44.1 million goats, 28.0 million sheep, over 150 million poultry, 4.1 million pigs,1.7 million domesticated rabbits, and 0.94 million donkeys, with an estimated value of over 260 billion naira (Nworgu,2006). These livestock resource base if properly harnessed have the potential of meeting up whatever challenges the country faces in terms of the supply of milk and meat. There are prevailing socio-economic and techno-operational including policy constraints limiting the efficiency of production of this cattle population and there is serious need to address these constraints through research support for the generation of producer-implementable technology packages. The WDR (2008) has it that the cross breeding of dairy cows with exotic breeds has improved livelihood of small holder farmers in high potential areas in the tropics. Those about 100 million cattle and pigs are bred annually in the developing world using AI. It added that 'thanks largely to AI, about 1.8 million small scale farmers in the high land of East Africa draw a significant part of their livelihood from the higher milk yields they obtain from genetically improved dairy cattle. Rozeboom (2007) posit that among all the fundamental systems of animal breeding exercise such as random mating, in-breeding, line breeding and out breeding, artificial insemination has proved to be the best and efficient method. This submission had been expressed by Butswat and Choji (1995) when they said that AI is a vital tool for the rapid improvement of livestock allowing for maximum use of best sires on numerous dams and that it is one of the animal production

Improving of pig production by intrauterine artificial insemination and other biotechnological solutions

Thanks to constantly increasing human population number during the last few decades, the need for pork meat on market increased dramatically. That requirement made imperative for improvement of swine production efficiency. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to implement new biotechnological procedures and production protocols. The use of artificial insemination (AI) in intensive swine production increased notably during the last 30 years and there is a constant need for improvement of AI technologies. New insemination methods (insemination with frozen-thawed semen, different insemination techniques) as well as modern equipment for analysis (CASA microscope, flow cytometry) and sperms' triage (semen sexing), contributed to obtaining much better production results in modern pig industry. The aim of our research was to evaluate sows' reproductive performances after the usage of intrauterine (IU) insemination with reduced semen volume doses and reduced sperm number, in comparison on classical, intracervical artificial insemination. The experiment included a total of 200 sows from 3 pig farms, which were divided in two groups. Test group (n=100) was inseminated applying intra-uterine (post-cervical) insemination technique with special balooncatheters, while control group (n=100) was inseminated on the usual manner, using intracervical (IC) technique. Insemination in both groups was done after oestrus detection (standing reflex) in the presence of mature boar. For IU artificial insemination had been used chilled semen doses with 1,5 billion of spermatozoain total volume of 50 ml, while for IC insemination of control group had been used standard semen dose of 100 ml and 3 billion spermatozoa. In both groups, insemination had been done once. Insemination with catheter for IU artificial insemination was successful in 89 sows. From the total number of successfully inseminated sows, 84 sows farrowed (94.38 %), while farrowing rate in control group was 78%. Based on results from this experiment, we determined statistical significant (p<0,01) higher number of liveborn piglets after intrauterine insemination (11,00 ± 1,57) with regard to intracervical insemination (10,14 ± 1,10). Applying of intrauterine (postcervical) insemination technique increases a number of spermatozoa that get into oviduct, on site of fertilization. That raises farrowing rate, litter size and number of live born piglets in inseminated sows. In addition, the use of IU catheters decreases semen backflow which allows usage of semen doses of less volume with reduced number of sperm cells. Insemination with this type of IU catheters can't be done if sows aren't in optimal oestrus period. Insemination of double more sows with the same volume of quality semen, better using of genetic material from excellent boars, better assessment of optimal insemination time especially during warm period of the year, are reason good enough for applying IU techniques on pig.

Semen collection and seminal characteristics of the Australian saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

The development of a reliable non-invasive method of crocodile semen collection is fundamental for assessing male fertility and for implementing the benefits of artificial insemination for reproductive and genetic management of farmed populations and the captive breeding of endangered species. Following an initial description of male reproductive anatomy in the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), this study developed a successful, reliable method of semen collection using cloacal digital manipulation of the terminal segment of the ductus deferens. Semen was recovered from 30 of 31 collection attempts from a total of 24 sedated males ranging from 197cm to 400cm in body length. Seminal characteristics (including abnormal sperm morphology) and bacteriology were documented for the first time. Mean (±SEM) seminal volume, pH, osmolality, sperm concentration, percentage of motile sperm and the percentage of sperm with an intact membrane measured 0.91±0.16mL, 7.3±0.1, 335.5±9.0mOsmkg-1, 2.29±0.26×109, 50.7±4.2%, and 79.9±3.6%, respectively. Sperm abnormalities included macro and microcephalic nuclei, teratoid spermatozoa, loose heads and a range of abnormal flagella. Most semen samples contained spermatozoa with what are presumed to be cytoplasmic droplets but the confirmation and then significance of this phenomenon as a sperm maturational pathology require further validation. In an attempt to develop targeted antibiotics for use in semen diluents, microflora of the penile shaft, sulcus and semen of a subset of crocodiles was analysed for culture and sensitivity. While a diverse range of bacteria were identified, the majority were sensitive to gentamicin. This study represents the first step towards assessment of breeding soundness examination and the use of artificial insemination technology in the saltwater crocodile industry.

Motilitas dan Viabilitas Spermatozoa Itik Lokal (Anas platyrhynchos) Setelah Penyimpanan Refrigerator dalam Ekstender Dikombinasi Berbagai Konsentrasi Krioprotektan Gliserol

The economic value of ducks has increased one Day Old Duck in large quantities and short time, effects on artificial insemination technologies improvement. Spermatozoa used for artificial insemination, could be derived from sperm preservation biotechnology, by means to maintain or extend their viability and motility of those spermatozoa. Extenders and cryoprotectant are needed for maintaining sperm motility and viability during storage or preservation. This study aims to assess motility and viability of local ducks spermatozoa after six days srotrage in 3 different extenders (Ringer's lactate, Tris or PBS) in combination with 5 different concentrations (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8%) of cryoprotectant glycerol. Results showed that sperm motility and viability was very highly significant (P 0.05) affected motility and viability of the sperm. The best treatment, resulted in the highest percentage motility and viability of sperm with progressivity score >1, was the 8% glycerol in PBS storage for up to 2 days (75.00 ± 21.79% and 71.67±14.43%). This protocol could be applied in artificial insemination trial.

Current Status of Reproductive Management in Bali Cows in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia

The objective of this study was to elucidate the current status of reproductive management of Bali beef cows in south Sulawesi Province,Indonesia. This study was conducted in Bantaeng Regency, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. Purposive sampling was used to choose the location where the study was taking place with consideration that this region has potential place for Bali cows. Data collection both primary and secondary data was done through observation and interview to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data. The results of this study showed that reproductive management applied to Bali cows in this region was very low. However, knowledge of the farmers regarding reproductive management such as estrus and its signs were much better, although the time of insemination to the estrous cows sometimes was too late. Mating system of Bali cows in this area were two different methods; natural mating and artificial insemination (AI). To adopt AI technology, the farmers should follow the standard operation of this technology. This study also showed that most of the farmers had good knowledge about estrus synchronization; however, they are still having difficulty to obtain or to access this technology, especially the price of the hormones used for estrus synchronization.