CIDR Group Research Articles

Comparison of two intravaginal progesterone-releasing devices in lactating Holstein cows synchronized with a 5-d GnRH-based timed-AI protocol

The objective of the study was to compare the effectiveness of CIDR vs. PRID-Delta devices for use in a 5-day Ovsynch protocol for TAI in lactating Holstein cows that were either not in estrus after the end of the voluntary waiting period or non-pregnant and not returning to estrus following the previous AI. Cows fitted with a collar-mounted automated activity monitoring system (Alta Cow Watch) were subjected to a standard 5-d Ovsynch protocol [100 μg of gonadorelin (GnRH) on Day 0 and 500 μg of cloprostenol on Days 5 and 6] and allocated randomly to receive either an intravaginal device containing 1.35 g (CIDR; n = 304) or 1.55 g (PRID ® DELTA; n = 304) of progesterone between Day 0 and 5. All cows received a second administration of GnRH at approximately 56 h and timed-AI (TAI) 72 h after intravaginal device removal. Inseminations were done using conventional frozen-thawed semen. Estrus events prior to TAI were recorded and transrectal ultrasonography was done on Day 0 to determine presence of a corpus luteum (CL) and 33 and 61 d post-TAI, respectively, to diagnose and confirm pregnancy. Cows had an average of 2.2 lactations, 124.3 days in milk, and a milk yield of 43.6 kg/d at enrollment. The overall percentage of cows with a CL at initiation of treatment was 68.8 % and did not differ between treatment groups. Cows with a CL had greater pregnancy per AI (P/AI) at 33 and 61 d post-TAI than cows without a CL (P < 0.01; 46.9 and 42.3 % vs. 32.1 and 27.4 %, respectively). The overall percentage of cows that expressed estrus prior to TAI was 24.8 % and did not differ between treatment groups; however, estrus expression prior to TAI affected P/AI at 33 and 61 d post-TAI (P < 0.01; 53.6 and 49.0 % vs. 38.5 and 33.9 % for those expressing or not expressing estrus, respectively). Pregnancy per AI at 33 d post-TAI tended to differ between treatment groups (P = 0.08; 46.1 vs. 38.5 % for PRID and CIDR groups, respectively) and P/AI at 61 d post-TAI was greater (P < 0.01) for PRID-treated cows (43.8 %) compared to CIDR-treated cows (31.6 %). Thus, PRID-treated cows had lower pregnancy loss than CIDR-treated cows (P < 0.01; 5.0 vs. 17.9 %). Also, treatment with a PRID tended (P = 0.08) to result in fewer twin pregnancies (7.9 vs. 14.5 % for PRID and CIDR treated cows, respectively). In conclusion, lactating dairy cows subjected to a 5-d Ovsynch TAI protocol plus a PRID-Delta had greater P/AI at 61 d post-TAI, lower pregnancy loss between 33 and 61 d post-TAI, and fewer twin pregnancies compared to cows subjected to a 5-d Ovsynch protocol plus a CIDR.

PSIV-15 Economic Impact of a 14-D Cidr Pre-Synchronization on Cost Per Pregnancy in Holstein Heifers

Abstract Feed cost is the largest expense in developing dairy heifers with improved reproductive performance there is opportunity to reduce costs through decreasing days on feed to first calving. The objective of this study was to compare the economic impact of a 14-d CIDR pre-synchronization protocol to no pre-synchronization in Holstein heifers during an 84-d breeding period. Heifers were divided in two treatment groups 1) 14-d CIDR pre-synchronization (pre-synch; n = 20) and 2) control (n = 16). Heifers in the pre-synch treatment received a CIDR on d -30 which were removed on d -16. On d 0 (day of breeding eligibility) heifers in both groups were administered PGF2α and an Estrotect patch for estrus detection. On d 0, body weight of the heifers was estimated using a heart girth tape for large breeds. Estrotect patches were assessed once daily in the morning and heifers with ≥ 50% of the patch scratched received AI the same morning with Holstein sexed semen. After AI, heifers received a new Estrotect patch to facilitate return to estrus. Heifers that failed to express behavioral estrus within 14 d after PGF2α administration received another dose of PGF2α every 14 d until the first behavioral estrus was observed. Approximately thirty days after AI, heifers were subjected to ultrasonography of uterine contents for pregnancy diagnosis, and re-confirmed pregnant at ~60 d. Heifers diagnosed open received an injection of PGF2α and a new Estrotect patch. Partial budget analyses utilize these prices: feed cost ($1.75/heifer/day), PGF2α ($3.29/dose), needle and syringes ($0.12/per injection), Estrotect patch ($1.20/unit), AI procedure ($10.00/AI), semen ($35.00/straw), CIDR ($16.60/unit), pregnancy diagnosis ($5.00/heifer), overall labor ($0.41/heifer/day), and extra labor for CIDR group ($1.25/heifer). The partial budget was calculated per heifer and per pregnant heifer by charging pregnant heifers the cost of the remaining open heifers at the end of the 84-d period. There was no difference (P ≥ 0.26) in weight at d 0 (399.9 ± 15.2 vs 398.4 ± 15.8 kg), age at d 0 (371.6 ± 8.7 vs 371.5 ± 8.9 d), days to first AI (6.85 ± 2.28 vs 6.27 ± 2.50 d), days to pregnancy (20.55 ± 7.52 vs 14.09 ± 8.22 d), average number of services (2.10 ± 0.30 vs 2.06 ± 0.34 AI/heifer), average number of services to pregnancy (1.56 ± 0.24 vs 1.50 ± 0.27 AI/heifer), proportion of heifers receiving AI in the first 7 d (85.0 ± 8.0 vs 68.8 ± 11.6 %), proportion of heifers pregnant at first service (50.5 ± 12.5 vs 56.4 ± 13.5 %) and final pregnancy rates (80.0 ± 8.9 vs 75.0 ± 10.8 %) for pre-synch and control, respectively. Average cost per animal ($ 194.50 ± 30.27 vs 170.44 ± 33.85) and average cost per pregnancy ($ 243.12 ± 37.16 vs 206.95 ± 42.91) were not statistically different (P ≥ 0.53) between pre-synch and control, respectively. In summary, the use of a 14-d CIDR pre-synchronization did not have a significant economic impact on the performance of Holstein heifers during an 84-d breeding period.

Comparative Efficacy of Different Oestrous Synchronization Protocols on Estrus Induction Response and Conception Rate in Repeat Breeder Dairy Cows

Repeat breeding is one of the exasperating reproductive disorders of dairy cows which results in heavy economic loss to dairy farmers. The present research was conducted to compare the efficacy of different oestrous synchronization protocols in repeat breeder cows under field condition. A total of 50 repeat breeder cows formed the experimental animals for the present study. The repeat breeder cows were randomly and equally assigned to one of the five groups. viz. CIDR (Group I; n=10), Ovsynch (Group II; n=10), Ovsynch+CIDR (Group III; n=10), Ovsynch+CIDR+Vitamin AD3E&amp;H (Group IV; n=10) and Control (Group V; n=10) and bred accordingly. The pregnancy status was checked 45 days post insemination by rectal palpation. The estrus induction response and conception rate in all five groups are compared and analysed. Though cows from all groups expressed estrus, there was significant difference (P≤0.05) in their duration of estrus which was high in Group IV. The overall conception percentage obtained in Group I, II, III, IV and V were 30, 40, 60, 80 and 20 per cent, respectively. In this study, the highest overall percentage of conception rates were recorded in group IV (80.00) followed by group III (60.00) when compared to groups II (40.00), I (30.00) and Control (20.00). Hence, it is concluded from the present study that Ovsynch+CIDR+Vitamin AD3E&amp;H protocol resulted in better estrus expression, duration and conception rate for treatment of repeat breeder cows under field conditions than other protocols.

Development and evaluation of an injectable slow-release progesterone formulation for estrus synchronization in ewes out of the breeding season.

This study was aimed at developing a type of slow-release progesterone micro-particles useable in a single intramuscular injection for estrus synchronization in non-breeding season ewes. A total of 66 ewes were randomly assigned into four groups: CIDR (n = 16): exposed to intravaginal CIDR for 12 days, and three experimental groups, i.e., T100 (n = 16), T150 (n = 17) and T200 (n = 17), receiving a single intramuscular injection of 100, 150 and 200 mg slow-release progesterone, respectively. Blood sampling was performed on all ewes at five different times, and the ELISA method measured progesterone levels. No significant differences were observed in progesterone levels among the groups in each sampling time. More than 90% of ewes in the CIDR, T100 and T150 groups and all those in T200 showed estrus behaviour, and the rate was not significantly different between groups. The difference in the mean interval from progesterone treatment to estrus was also insignificant. The parturition rate declined by increasing the dose of injected progesterone; although it was similar in CIDR and T100 groups, it decreased significantly in T150 and T200 . Since our injectable progesterone formulation was successful in the induction and synchronization of estrus in ewes out of the breeding season, it can be applied as an alternative to the conventional progesterone containing intravaginal devices.

Comparison between the CIDR or sponge with hormone injection to induce estrus synchronization for twining and sex preselection in Naimi sheep

Abstract The management of sheep reproduction requires the induction and synchronization of the estrus cycle and ovulation for the ewe out-of-season and/or synchronized lambing. These managements are based on the insertion of an intravaginal device of controlled internal drug release (CIDR or sponge) and then the administration of a hormonal injection, such as PMSG, eCG, hCG, or GnRH. This study aimed to compare the impact of CIDR or sponges, with PMSG and GnRH injection, respectively, for inducing estrus synchronization, lambing rate, twining, and sex preselection rate in Naimi sheep. A total of 86 Naimi sheep ewes and six male rams with proven fertility were used in this study. The results showed that the first ewes or CIDR group had the highest ewe fertility rate of 26/28 (92.59%) with a 35/92 (38.04%) lamb production ratio. The offspring sex ratio was 22/35 males (62.85%) and 13/35 female lambs (37.14%). Their twin ratios were 9/22 (34.4%), producing 14 males (77.77%) and 13 females (37.14%). The second or sponge ewe group’s fertility ratio was 16/26 (61.53%). They sired the lowest offspring ratio of 20/92 total lambs (21.73%) and had sex ratios of 11/20 males (55.0%) and 9/20 (45.0%) female lambs. The twin production ratios were 4/22 (25% with two males and two males with female twins). Their twin sex ratio was six males (77.77%) and two females (22.34%). The third or control ewe group’s fertility rate was 29/33 (87.87%). They produced 37/92 (40.27%) lambs, and the total sex ratios were 22/37 male lambs (59.45%) and 15/35 (40.45%) female lambs. They produced eight twins (27.58%), and their twins’ sex was equal to six male and six female (50%) lambs. Regarding the progesterone and testosterone hormone levels, no differences during pre- or post-intravaginal insertion were observed, but the estrogen level showed some differences during pre-insertion. In conclusion, the use of CIDR with hormone injection is better for reproduction management, male lambing, and sex preselection rate. The control group produced approximately the same fertility rate with equal male and female lambing sex preselection rates.

PSI-5 Comparison of 7&amp;7 Synch and 7-day Co-Synch + Cidr Protocols in a Fixed-Time ai System on Beef Cows Using Y-Sorted sex-Selected Semen

Abstract The 7&amp;7 Synch and the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR fixed-time estrous synchronization protocols were compared among mature and two-year-old lactating postpartum Angus and SimAngus cows (n=201). Mature (n=63) and two-year-old (n=36) cows treated with the 7&amp;7 Synch received an injection of prostaglandin F2α (PGF; 25 mg dinoprost tromethamine) at the same time as insertion of an intravaginal progesterone-releasing insert (CIDR; 1.38g progesterone) on Day -17, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH; 100 μg gonadorelin) on Day -10, and PGF at time of CIDR removal on Day -3. Mature (n=65) and two-year-old (n=37) cows in the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR groups received an injection of GnRH on Day -10 that coincided with CIDR insertion and received PGF at the time of CIDR removal on Day -3. Fixed-timed AI (FTAI) by a single technician using Y-chromosome-bearing sex-sorted semen (4x106 sperm/unit of SexedULTRA 4M) from one of two Charolais bulls occurred on Day 0, 70 hours after PGF injection. Seven days later bulls were pastured with cows for the remainder of the breeding season. Transrectal ultrasound was performed 77-83 days after AI and fetal size was used to differentiate AI and natural service pregnancies. Within the mature cows and two-year-old age groups, the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS was used to compare FTAI and breeding season pregnancy rates with estrous synchronization treatment and sire as main effects. No differences (P=0.41) were observed amongst mature cows in FTAI pregnancy rates between the 7&amp;7 Synch (52.4%) and the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR (44.9%) treatments. A greater (P=0.05) proportion of two-year-old cows were pregnant to FTAI following treatment with the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR (56.7%) as compared to the 7&amp;7 Synch (33.4%). A greater (P=0.02) proportion of two-year-old cows in the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR treatment (91.9%) were pregnant at the conclusion of the breeding season as compared with the 7&amp;7 Synch (69.7%).

The Effect of Different Estrus Synchronization Methods on Reproductive Performance in Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination Program in Morkaraman Sheep

This study investigated the reproductive performance, lamb survivability, and growing performance of Morkaraman ewes, the estrus of which was induced by natural and synthetic progesterone and which were inseminated by laparoscopic technique at the end of the mating season (December). In the study, 5 different estrus synchronization methods (CIDR, Crestar, Natural progesterone, Cronolone and MAP), 100 Morkaraman ewes, and lambs born to them were used. After the completion of the estrus synchronization methods, the first sign of estrus was detected earliest in the natural progesterone group (39.53±1.87 hours), and there was a significant difference between the natural progesterone and vaginal sponges containing MAP and Cronolone concerning the time to the first hour of estrus. Estrus rates were found significantly different across the study groups, with the shortest time to estrus having been achieved by MAP. The lambing rates for CIDR, Cronolone, Natural progesterone, MAP, and Crestar groups were 74%, 61%, 56%, 33%, and 10%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the treatment groups concerning birth weight, weight at various periods, and survivability of lambs although a significant difference was found in their weaning weight.

Effects of carprofen and/or CIDR administration on pregnancies per artificial insemination around pregnancy recognition in lactating dairy cows

Effect of carprofen and/or CIDR on pregnancies per AI (P/AI) 14 days after artificial insemination (AI) in lactating cows were investigated. Following detection of corpus luteum (CL) by ultrasonography (USG) 14 days after AI, cows (n=853) were randomly allocated to CARP (carprofen, 1.4 mg/kg; Rimadyl®XL), CIDR (progesterone, 1.38g, for seven days), CARP+CIDR and CONT (control) groups. CL was re-determined with USG 21 days after AI to monitored the maintenance of CL. Rates of maintenance of CL did not differed among CARP (79.6% [168/211]), CIDR (86.0% [196/228]), CARP+CIDR (80.0% [172/215]) and CONT (74.9% [149/199]) groups; however, the interaction effect of treatment by body condition score (BCS) at AI (P&lt;0.05) were existed. In this matter, among cows with BCS≤2.5, chances of maintenance of CL was lower in CONT (70.7%, [111/157]) group compared to those in CARP (81.7%, [125/153]), CIDR (83.6%, [153/183]) and CARP+CIDR (80.1%, [129/161]) groups. Whereas, among cows with BCS&gt;2.5, chances of maintenance of CL were lower in CARP (74.1%, [43/58]) and CARP+CIDR (79.6%, [43/54]) groups compared to those in CONT (90.5%, [38/42]) and CIDR (95.6%, [43/45]) groups. For the P/AI at 28-32 days after AI, there was no difference among CARP (48.8% [103/211]), CIDR (50.9 [116/228]), CARP+CIDR (47.4% [102/215]) and CONT (44.7% [89/199]) groups. Pregnancy losses between 28-32 and 55-60 days did not differ among CARP (3.9%, [4/103]), CIDR (4.3%, [5/116]), CARP+CIDR (5.9%, [6/102]) and CONT (6.7%, [6/89]) groups. However, there was a significant (P&lt;0.05) interaction effect of treatment by the number of services on pregnancy losses. In this regard, pregnancy losses were higher in cows inseminated thrice and four or more times in CONT (11.8% and 16.7%) group compared to those in CARP (0% and 4.8%), CIDR (0% and 6.9%), CARP+CIDR (0% and 11.1%); respectively. Consequently, no effects of carprofen or CIDR around pregnancy recognition on P/AI were observed despite a higher maintenance rate of CL in lactating cattle. Furthermore, fewer pregnancy losses in cows following three or more services could indicate the beneficial carry-over effects of carprofen and/or CIDR administration around maternal recognition of pregnancy.

Puberty attainment and reproductive performance of yearling Bos indicus-influenced heifers after two sequential treatments with progesterone

Number of pubertal heifers at time of breeding season initiation is a primary determinant to pregnancy success during the breeding season. It was hypothesized that pre-breeding progesterone (P4) supplementation (induction) would increase the number of heifers pubertal at the time of imposing estrous synchronization treatment regimens and P/AI. Yearling, Bos indicus-influenced (n = 577) or Bos indicus (n = 174) heifers were or were not treated with P4 (CIDR and Non-CIDR, respectively) for 10 d starting on D-23 (D0 = TAI). Presence of a CL on D-33 or D-23 was considered to indicate heifers were pubertal. On D-13, there was a PGF analogue administered. On D-9, there was treatment with GnRH analogue, 6d-CIDR and PGF. There were inseminations based on estrus (D-2 to D0) or TAI on D0 for non-estrous animals. There were 5.2 % and 62.9 % purebred and crossbred heifers pubertal, respectively. Proportion of prepubertal crossbred than purebred heifers with CL on D-3 was greater as a result of imposing the pubertal induction regimen (P < 0.05 and P> 0.10, respectively). Regardless of puberty status, proportion of heifers in estrus prior to AI in the CIDR group was similar to the heifers of the Non-CIDR group for crossbreds and purebreds. Similarly, P/AI of CIDR group was similar to the Non-CIDR group for crossbreds and purebreds. In summary, imposing the pubertal induction regimen hastened attainment of puberty in yearling crossbred, but not purebred heifers. Puberty induction did not affect estrous response, neither fertility after imposing an estrous synchronization treatment regimen.

Comparison of two intravaginal progesterone-releasing devices in shortened-timed artificial insemination protocols in beef cattle

Commercially available intravaginal progesterone (P4) devices differ in shape, surface area and P4 load, which may affect the resulting pregnancy per AI (P/AI) following timed-AI (TAI). The objective of this study was to compare two intravaginal P4 devices on estrus rate, follicular dynamics and P/AI in beef cattle subjected to shortened-TAI protocols. In Expt. 1, nulliparous heifers were randomly assigned to a P4-releasing intravaginal device (PRID-Delta, 1.55 g P4) or a controlled internal drug release (CIDR, 1.38 g P4) at the initiation of a J-synch protocol. Heifers that displayed estrus 72 h following device removal were TAI, or if not in estrus given GnRH at 72 h and TAI at 90 h. In Expt. 2, nulliparous heifers and non-suckling cows were randomly assigned to either PRID or CIDR groups and either 1 or 2 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB) at initiation of a J-synch protocol. All cattle were TAI concurrent with GnRH 72 h after device removal. In Expt. 3, nulliparous heifers and suckling cows were randomly assigned to either PRID or CIDR groups and initiated a 5-d Cosynch protocol, with TAI concurrent with GnRH 72 h following device removal. In each experiment, cattle received estrus detection patches at device removal, which were then scored from 0 to 3 based on color change between initial application and TAI; 0 = unchanged, 1 = ≤50% change, 2 = >50% change, 3 = missing. Estrus was defined to have occurred when the patch was scored 2 or 3. Transrectal ultrasonography was used to determine cyclicity, diagnose pregnancy in all experiments, and the size of the ovulatory follicle in Expt. 3. In Expt. 1, the estrus rate was greater (72.0% vs. 61.0%; P = 0.04) in the PRID compared to the CIDR group. In Expt. 2, a parity by EB dose interaction (P = 0.02) was attributed to an increased estrus rate (52.8% vs. 41.4%; P = 0.05) in heifers given 1 vs. 2 mg EB. In Expt. 3, there was no difference in the ovulatory follicle diameter at device removal (P = 0.22) or TAI (P = 0.28) between P4 groups. Treatment with a PRID tended (P = 0.10) to increase the P/AI in cows compared to a CIDR (73.5% vs. 61.0%). In all experiments combined, the overall P/AI tended to increase (55.2% vs. 51.0%; P = 0.08) and P/AI in cattle exhibiting estrus increased (64.4% vs. 59.7%; P = 0.02) in cattle given a PRID compared to those given a CIDR, respectively. In summary, the type of intravaginal P4 device affected estrus response and P/AI following TAI in beef cows.

Estrous synchronization in sheep with reused progesterone devices and eCG

ABSTRACT The objective of the present research was to determine the effect of long synchronization protocols based on reused progesterone devices (controlled internal drug release [CIDR]) associated with different doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on reproductive variables in crossbred sheep (Suffolk × Kathadin × Dorset). The CIDR were used for eleven days in a previous study in sheep from the same herd and were washed and disinfected before reusing. Sixty-four sheep, in the reproductive season, were randomly assigned to four experimental groups (n = 16). Treatments consisted of a group with 10 d CIDR and 300 IU eCG; a group with 10 d CIDR and 400 IU of eCG; a group with 12 d CIDR and 300 IU of eCG; and a group with 12 d CIDR and 400 IU of eCG. A completely randomized design was used. There was an estrous presentation rate of 100% in all treatments. The begining of estrous, gestation rate, fertility rate, type of parturition, and prolificacy index were equal between groups. Progesterone serum concentration was higher in sheep from the 10 d CIDR groups. The CIDR, reused for the second time, associated with 300 or 400 IU of eCG for estrous synchronization in sheep, are effective to obtain good pregnancy rates and ensures higher prolificacy rates.

Melatonin and CIDR improved the follicular and luteal haemodynamics, uterine and ovarian arteries vascular perfusion, ovarian hormones and nitric oxide in cyclic cows.

This study hypothesizes that melatonin with exogenous progesterone (CIDR) can improve follicular, luteal, ovarian and uterine haemodynamic of heat-stressed cows. Holstein cows (N=12) studied for two spontaneous oestrous cycles during winter then divided equally during summer into the CIDR group received CIDR for 7days and the melatonin group (Mel) received three injections of melatonin (75mg/head) at the CIDR insertion, removal and ovulation days. Blood samples were collected to assay oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and nitric oxide (NO). On day 0 (Ovulation), Mel had more small follicles (p<.05), higher ipsilateral and contralateral ovarian arteries (Ov.A.) peak systolic velocity (PSV), higher ipsilateral uterine artery (Ut.A.) PSV (p=.031) and blood flow volume (BFV), also Mel elevated contralateral Ut.A. PSV and BFV (p<.0001) but lowered contra Ut.A. pulsatility index (PI, p<.0001), E2 (p<.01) and NO (p<.0001). Mel increased the corpus luteum diameter (CL, p<.001), coloured area (p<.007) and P4 (p<.0001) on day 5 and reduced them (p<.05; p<.01) on Day 14. On day 10, Mel obtained CL diameter (p<.03) and coloured area (p<.002) of spontaneous that was higher than CIDR and decreased P4 (p<.003). Mel increased CL diameter, area and coloured area and decreased them thereafter. Mel increased the ipsilateral ovarian and uterine arteries PSV and BFV before ovulation and until day 8. Mel increased P4 and decreased NO until days 6 and 14. In conclusion, the improvement in follicular, luteal, ovarian and uterine haemodynamic and the decrease of NO production proved our hypothesis Melatonin doses higher than 75mg/head is recommended to improve the heat-stressed cow's fertility.

118 A comparison of intravaginal progesterone devices for fixed-time artificial insemination in beef cattle

Intravaginal progesterone (P4) devices used for ovarian synchronization before fixed-time AI (FTAI) differ in drug release, which may influence fertility outcome. A 2×2 study was designed to determine the effects of different intravaginal devices (PRID Delta, 1.55g of P4 vs. CIDR, 1.38g of P4) and parity (heifers vs. cows) on follicular dynamics, expression of oestrus, and pregnancy per AI (P/AI). At random stages of the oestrous cycle, nulliparous beef heifers and lactating cows were given 100µg of gonadorelin (gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, GnRH) intramuscularly (IM) and assigned randomly to either the PRID (n=76 heifers, 76 multiparous, 27 primiparous) or CIDR (n=76 heifers, 73 multiparous, 32 primiparous) group. Devices were removed 5 days later, an oestrus-detection patch was applied just cranial to the tail head, and 500µg of cloprostenol was given IM at the time of device removal and again 24h later. At 72h after device removal, cattle were inseminated and given 100µg of GnRH IM. Transrectal ultrasonography was used to determine the diameter of the largest follicle on the day of device removal and at FTAI, ovulation time, and pregnancy status 30 days after FTAI. A colour change of ≥50% of the oestrus-detection patch at FTAI was taken as expression of oestrus. Data were compared among groups by 2-way ANOVA using MIXED and GLIMMIX procedures. There were no interactions between P4 device and parity for any endpoint. The diameter of the largest follicle (mean±s.e.m.) was not different between PRID and CIDR groups on either the day of device removal (10.6±0.1 vs. 10.9±0.1mm) or the day of FTAI (13.7±0.1 vs. 13.9±0.1mm). The proportion displaying oestrus did not differ between P4 device groups, but was greater in heifers than in cows [121/152 (79.6%) vs. 135/207 (65.2%); P&amp;lt;0.01], and the interval from FTAI to ovulation was shorter in heifers than in cows (27.8±1.2 vs. 32.0±1.1 h; P=0.01). The P/AI was not different between P4 device groups or parity groups (overall 67.0%, 238/355). However, among lactating cows, the P/AI tended to be greater in the PRID vs. CIDR group [75/102 (73.5%) vs. 64/105 (61.0%); P=0.10], and was greater in multiparous vs. primiparous cows [106/148 (71.6%) vs. 33/59 (55.9%); P=0.04]. Among cattle that displayed oestrus, the P/AI tended to be greater in the PRID vs. CIDR group [92/123 (74.8%) vs. 85/131 (64.9%); P=0.09]. Among lactating cows that displayed oestrus, the P/AI was greater in multiparous vs. primiparous cows [74/94 (78.2%) vs. 24/42 (57.1%); P&amp;lt;0.01]. In summary, follicular dynamics and expression of oestrus did not differ between PRID and CIDR groups, but the P/AI tended to be greater in PRID-treated lactating cows and in cattle that displayed oestrus. This research was supported by CEVA Animal Health, Saskatchewan ADF, Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada, and Rockway Inc.

Evaluation of the bacteriological flora in the vagina of postpartum anestrus cattle before and after treatment with three progesterone implants

Thirty postpartum (>70 days) anestrus crossbred cows were treated with three standard hormonal protocols (CIDR TRIU-B, and P4 Sponge n=10 each) for induction of estrus and the findings were compared with a group of untreated anestrus cows (Blank Sponge n=10). 80 vaginal swabs were collected aseptically from each group just before insertion of Implants/Blank Sponge and at the time of Implant/Blank Sponge withdrawal for microbiological evaluation of vaginal mucosa. Total number of isolates obtained from all the swabs were 180. Out of 180 isolates, 72 (40.00%) isolates were Gram positive and 108 isolates were (60.00%) Gram-negative bacteria, indicating dominance of Gram- negative bacteria. Overall ratio of number of isolates per vaginal sample obtained in the present study was 2.25. The highest rate of isolation of bacteria per sample was recorded in the placebo group at the time of removal of placebo i.e. 2.6, followed by 2.5 by same group at the time of insertion, 2.3 at the time of TRIU-B removal, 2.2 at the time of TRIU-B insertion and P4 Sponge removal, 2.1 in CIDR at the time of removal and P4 Sponge insertion and lowest i.e. 2.0 in CIDR group at the time of insertion of implant. The frequency of single and mixed isolates observed in different groups of anestrus animals at the time of insertion and removal of implants showed predominance of mixed isolates over single isolates 63 (78.75%) vs 17 (21.25%), indicating dominance of mixed isolates over single isolates. E. coli, Staphylococcus, Proteus and Bacillus were the commonest isolates obtained before and after insertion of implants and Blank Sponge in post-partum anestrus cattle. The implant used and time/period of isolation did not alter the types of bacteria isolated.

Effect of progesterone supplementation in a resynchronization protocol on follicular dynamics and pregnancy success

The objective of this study was to evaluate the necessity of a controlled internal drug releasing device (CIDR) in a fixed-time AI resynchronization protocol as well as to compare a commercially available blood pregnancy test with transrectal ultrasonography for Day 28 pregnancy detection. Over a two-year period, beef cows and heifers from twelve herds were inseminated using the 7-day CO-Synch + CIDR protocol. On Day 21 following the first insemination, the protocol was repeated, with animals receiving either a CIDR or no CIDR. Pregnancy status (AI1) was determined on Day 28 by both transrectal ultrasonography and the IDEXX Rapid Visual Pregnancy Test. Non-pregnant animals by both methods (CIDR: n = 190 cows, n = 228 heifers; no CIDR: n = 185 cows, n = 223 heifers) received an injection of Prostaglandin F2alpha and were inseminated at the appropriate time or bred following detection of estrus. Corpora lutea (CL) number and largest follicle diameter were recorded on a subset of non-pregnant animals (CIDR: n = 66 cows, n = 46 heifers; no CIDR: n = 76 cows, n = 41 heifers) at time of pregnancy diagnosis on Day 28. Final pregnancy status was determined a minimum of 31 days following the second AI (AI2). The GLIMMIX procedure of SAS was utilized for estrus and pregnancy data; while the MIXED procedure was utilized for analyses of CL number and largest follicle diameter. There was no effect (P ≥ 0.55) of treatment on AI1 pregnancy, AI2 pregnancy, or overall pregnancy rates. The presence of a CIDR during the resynchronization increased (P < 0.001) estrus expression prior to AI2. There was an effect of treatment by age on AI2 pregnancy (P < 0.01); heifers that received a CIDR had greater AI2 pregnancy rates than heifers that did not receive a CIDR (P = 0.04), but there was no difference between cows with and without a CIDR. Treatment had no effect (P > 0.10) on embryonic loss (between the first and second pregnancy diagnosis), CL number, or follicle diameter. Although, there was a tendency for the interaction of treatment by age on follicle size (P = 0.07), with cows having larger follicles than heifers in the no CIDR group but not the CIDR group. In conclusion, use of a CIDR in this resynchronization protocol increased estrus expression, increased AI2 pregnancy for heifers, but did not improve pregnancies in cows, and did not influence overall pregnancy or embryonic loss.

Investigation of the Effect of Intravaginal Device-type and Treatment-duration on Vaginal Features in Ewes and Determination of Antibiotic Susceptibility

Background: Seasonal anestrus, which is controlled by the photoperiod in ewes, limits the ability to the fertility of ewe every time. Therefore, using hormones by vaginal devices is the most effective way of increasing fertility in order to form oestrus during the anestrus period and obtain a high rate of pregnancy. But, vaginal devices may cause a change in the profile and number of bacteria in the uterus and vagina, and thus create an environment suitable for infection. For this reason, identification of bacteria that are the source of infection can be achieved by performing antibiotic susceptibility tests and interpreting them correctly. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effect of intravaginal device-type and treatment-duration on vaginal bacteria count and type and determine the antibiotic susceptibility of vaginal bacterias in ewes after a program of oestrus synchronization. Methods: A total of 90 clinically healthy Kivircik ewes were selected. In order to provide oestrus synchronization during anestrus season (June), CIDR was inserted intravaginally to 45 ewes, the other 45 ewes were progestogen sponges inserted. In both groups remained inserted for 5, 9 and 13 days. While vaginal devices were withdrawal both groups ewes were exposed to intramuscular 350 IU PMSG injection. The mucous samples were collected from all ewes 0, 5, 9 and 13 days at time the IVS or CIDR withdrawal. In samples, bacterial concentration, bacterial identification, and antibiotic susceptibility were determined. Result: The changes in the vaginal flora caused by the vaginal devices favored the development of opportunistic microbiota that could potentially be pathogenic. In the study, after vaginal device withdrawal, the bacteria species most frequently observed in both IVS and CIDR groups were E. coli. According to the results of this study, the first choice of antibiotics for vaginal infections caused by G- agents in ewes should be any of AXC, CEP and CTZ compared to other antibiotics.

EFFECT OF NEW AND USED CIDR WITH ECG ON REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF LOCAL GOATS

This study was achieved in one of the fields of special factor in Basaer village Euphrates in Heet district l Anbar,. For the period between 1/2/2014 to 1/7/2014, 40 local female goats aged 2-4 years with a weight ranging from 35-40 kg, and at least one birth, all female goats were examined using an ultrasound machine. Sonar) to make sure they are free of pregnancy before the start of the experiment. Females were randomly divided into two equal groups (20 goats in each group), Female group I (T1) was treated by placing the one-time used cider in the vagina for 12 days. Upon removal eCG 500 IU was injected into the muscle withdrawal, Females of the second group (T2) were treated with the application of the vaginal progesterone (CIDR) device containing 0.3 g progesterone for 12 days removal, withdrawal eCG 500 IU was injected into the muscle. The females were inseminated through the release of males with them at the end of the hormonal program and the male was rotated between the cages to avoid the differences caused by male influence and continued presence of males with females for five days. The results of the study showed the superiority of the new CIDR group over the CIDR group used no significantly in the performance reproductive. The results of the present study showed an increase in the weight of newborns due to the impact of the weight of the mother, and that hormonal treatments used in the standardization of estrus did not affect the weight of births at birth or their vitality. However, the results showed that the births of high-weight mothers led to increased birth weight and increased vitality and preserve their life after birth. We conclude from the present study that the use of CIDR in standardizing estrus gives good results and improves reproductive performance in goats when injecting hormone eCG, can be reused CIDR again and gives acceptable results.

Short communication: Reproduction outcomes in dairy heifers following a 14-d progesterone insert presynchronization protocol

The objectives were to evaluate pregnancy per artificial insemination (AI), days to first AI, and proportion pregnant within 7 d of AI eligibility in dairy heifers subjected to presynchronization compared with dairy heifers not presynchronized. Thirty days before AI eligibility, Holstein heifers were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups: 14-d controlled internal drug release (CIDR; containing progesterone) presynchronization, PGF2α presynchronization, or control (no presynchronization). Heifers in the 14-d CIDR presynchronization treatment (n = 119) received a CIDR on d -30, which was removed on d -16, followed by an injection of PGF2α upon entry to the breeding program (d 0). Heifers in the PGF2α presynchronization treatment (n = 118) received an injection of PGF2α on d -11 and d 0. Control heifers (n = 121) were not presynchronized and received an injection of PGF2α on d 0. All heifers received tail paint on d 0 to facilitate once-daily detection of estrus (based on paint removal). Heifers detected in estrus received AI with conventional semen on the same morning as detected estrus. Generalized linear mixed models were used to assess mean treatment differences. Following PGF2α treatment on d 0, more heifers were detected in estrus in the first 7 d after eligibility in the 14-d CIDR group (95.8%) compared with the PGF2α (74.6%) and control (66.9%) groups. Days to first AI differed between treatments (14-d CIDR = 3.6 d vs. PGF2α = 5.0 d vs. control = 6.8 d). Pregnancy per AI for first AI within 7 d of eligibility was 71.9% (14-d CIDR), 58.0% (PGF2α), and 61.7% (control), and differed between 14-d CIDR and PGF2α heifers. Presynchronization with a 14-d CIDR increased the proportion of heifers pregnant in the first 7 d of eligibility (14-d CIDR = 68.9% vs. PGF2α = 43.2% vs. control = 41.3%). Projected days on feed (d 0 to projected calving date) were 295 (14-d CIDR), 302 (PGF2α), and 305 (control), and were different between the 14-d CIDR and control heifers. The potential economic benefit to the producer was $15.85 per heifer presynchronized with a 14-d CIDR protocol compared with the control group. Treatment of dairy heifers with a 14-d CIDR effectively presynchronized estrus, resulting in a greater proportion detected in estrus, reduced days to first AI, and an increased proportion of heifers pregnant within the first 7 d after breeding eligibility compared with heifers presynchronized with a single PGF2α injection and control heifers.

Does royal jelly have a reproductive effect on progesterone-treated goats?

Introduction: Some methods for inducing/synchronizing oestrus and ovulation in goats require the injection of equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG). The objective of this study was to determine whether royal jelly (RJ) can be a subs-titute for eCG in CIDR-treated dairy goats. Methods: Sixty-six primiparous goats received the CIDR device for twelve days in April. The eCG group (n=22) was injec-ted with 200 IU of the gonadotropin when the intravaginal device was removed; the RJ group (n=22) received a daily intramuscular injection of 1 g of RJ during the period of CIDR treatment; the CIDR group (n=22) did not receive any additional treatment. A fourth group (Con, n=20) was used as control and received no treat-ment at all. Oestrus response, ovulation and fertility were recorded. Results: The oestrus percentage was higher in eCG (95%, p&lt;0.05) than in the remaining groups (RJ, 41%; CIDR, 36% and Con, 0%) and occurred at shorter intervals (eCG, 35±2.3; RJ, 66±4.6; CIDR, 59±2; h±se; p&lt;0.05). Ovulation was higher in eCG (91%, p&lt;0.05), and RJ and CIDR were not different between them (50% vs 41%, p&gt;0.05). No ovula-tion was recorded in the Con group. The percentage of fertile and birthing animals after 148-158 days was greater in the eCG (91%, p&lt;0.05) compared to other groups (RJ, 36%; CIDR, 36%, Con, 0%), whereas it was not different between the RJ, CIDR and Con groups (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: There was no evidence of a reproductive effect of RJ on progesterone-treated goats.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PROGESTERONE HORMONE OR PGF2α AND hCG APPLICATION TO INCREASE REPRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY OF POSTPARTUM OF ANESTRUS PE GOATS

This study aimed to improve reproductive condition of postpartum anestrus of Etawa crossbreed (PE) goats using PGF2α hormone or progesterone (controlled internal drug release/CIDR-G) and improve pregnancy success from artificial insemination (AI) with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) hormone administration. Administration of progesterone increased estrus by 100%, which was higher than the 70% produced from prostaglandin F2 alfa (PGF2α) administration. Estrus onset in CIDR group (35.80±13.33 hours) was faster than PGF2α group (45.6±9.2 hours). Clinical signs of vulva (redness and swollen) were more intense in CIDR-G group (80% and 70%, respectively) compared to PGF2α group (70% and 57%, respectively). Estrus duration in PGF2α group (52.17±3.34 hours) was longer than CIDR-G group (49.61±3.56 hours). Pregnancy success in group given hCG was 66.7% while in non-hCG group was 50%. In conclusion, CIDR-G and PGF2α administration is effective to induce estrus of postpartum anestrus PE goats. Administration of hCG at the onset of estrus is effective to improve pregnancy success.