Estrus Response Rate Research Articles

62 Relationship between feed efficiency and reproductive measures in beef heifers

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the influence of residual feed intake (RFI) classification on reproductive measures and pregnancy rates in beef heifers. During an 8-yr period, 1,090 heifers were tested for feed efficiency in 70-d trials using a GrowSafe system. Heifers had ad libitum access to water and diets designed to meet NRC requirements for 0.90 kg/d gain. Diets, fed as a total mixed ration, were 85% forage and 15% concentrate which included vitamin and mineral supplements. Heifers were weighed at weaning, the beginning of the RFI trial, at yearling, end of the RFI trial and at breeding. Residual feed intake values were calculated, and heifers were grouped into RFI categories of Average (AVG), Efficient (EFF) or Inefficient (INE). At 13 mo of age, reproductive tract scores (RTS) and pelvic areas were measured. In 5 of the years, heifers (n = 487) also had antral follicle counts (AFC) determined via transrectal ultrasonography. Heifers were estrous synchronized and artificially inseminated (AI) with AI bulls balanced across efficiency categories. Estrus response to synchronization was recorded at fixed-time AI. Pregnancy status and fetal age were determined via transrectal ultrasonography at 60 d and 100 d after AI. Records from 1,078 heifers were used in the analysis (AVG = 428; EFF = 317; INE = 333). Dry matter intake (DMI), body weights, average daily gain (ADG), RTS, and AFC were analyzed using Mixed procedures in SAS. Estrus response and pregnancy rates were evaluated using Logistic procedures. Differences among RFI categories (P < 0.0001) were a result of differences in DMI (P < 0.001) averaging 12.5, 11.5, and 10.2 kg/d (SE = 0.44 kg/d) for INE, AVG and EFF heifers, respectively. In addition, ADG was greater (P < 0.05) for AVG compared with INE heifers. Prior to RFI classification, birth weight was less (P < 0.03) in EFF compared with AVG heifers, and weaning weight (P < 0.01) greater in EFF compared with AVG or INE heifers. However, yearling weight and breeding weight were similar (P = 0.60) across RFI category. Indicators of reproductive development, RTS (P = 0.24) and AFC (P = 0.79) were not different among RFI category. Estrus response to synchronization increased (P < 0.04) for INE (77.3%) compared with AVG (69.1%) or EFF (70.1%) heifers. However, fixed-time AI and final pregnancy rates were similar (P > 0.69) among RFI categories and averaged 54.7%, 54.5%, 52.7% and 89.7%, 88.8%, 87.8% for AVG, EFF and INE heifers, respectively. In conclusion, differences in feed efficiency as indicated by RFI had limited influence on measures of reproductive development in beef heifers and did not alter pregnancy rates. Therefore, placing emphasis on feed efficiency in developing beef heifers should not alter reproductive performance.

Impact of Estrus Response and Pregnancy Rate of Two Cows That are Injected with Prostaglandin F2α Hormone in the System Maintenance is Different to Livestock Farming

Livestock farming is an effort to breed livestock to obtain benefits or results in the form of products and income. The success of a livestock business depends on three elements commonly referred to as the production triangle, namely seeds, feed, and management. In addition, the techno-socioeconomic characteristics of livestock farmers greatly influence the development of livestock businesses and will later affect the income of livestock farmers. The aim of the research was to examine the injection of the prostaglandin F2α hormone on the estrus response and pregnancy in Ongole crossbreed and Simental crossbreed cows reared using intensive and semi-intensive rearing systems. The data obtained will be analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and if there is a real effect, continue with further testing with Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The results of research on the percentage of estrus after the first and second injection of the prostaglandin hormone can be seen in the table. The highest percentage of estrus was in the S1P2 treatment with a percentage value of 80% and the lowest percentage value was in the S2P1 and S2P2 treatments with a percentage value of 40%. The percentage of estrus after the second injection, the percentage value for all treatments increased and the percentage of estrus was highest in the S1P2 treatment with a value of 100%. The average value of onset of estrus after the second injection of the PGF2α hormone was lower than the first injection. The longest duration of estrus in the treatment after the first PGF2α hormone injection was in the S1P2 treatment with an average of 24.75 hours, while the longest duration of estrus in the treatment after the second PGF2α hormone injection was in the S2P1 treatment with an average of 25 hours. PO cattle and Simental crossbreeds injected with PGF2α gave no different estrous responses. Intensive and semi-intensive rearing systems provide no different estrous responses. Raising PO cows using a semi-intensive rearing system injected with PGF2α provides an estrous response and high pregnancy rates (60), to be one of techniques to breed cattle of PO cow and have good impact to the success of a livestock business

PSIII-7 7&7 Synch improved pregnancy rates in beef cows experiencing estrus over 24 h before fixed-time insemination

Abstract Our objectives were to compare estrus response and pregnancy rates between two different estrus synchronization protocols and between cows that experienced estrus more than 24 h before appointment breeding and those that experienced estrus less than 24 h before breeding. Over each of 2 yr, postpartum beef cows (n = 1,108) from two different locations were ranked by days postpartum and randomly selected to receive either; 1) 7-d CO-Synch + CIDR (CO-Synch, n = 547), or; 2) 7 & 7 Synch (7&7, n = 561). For the CO-Synch treatment, cows received a controlled internal drug release insert (CIDR; 1.38g progesterone) and 100 µg gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) i.m., followed in 7 d by CIDR removal and 25 mg prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF) i.m., followed in 60 to 66 h with AI and 100 µg GnRH i.m. For the 7&7 Synch protocol, cows received a CIDR (1.38g progesterone) and 25 mg PGF i.m., followed in 7 d by 100 µg GnRH i.m., followed in 7 d by CIDR removal and 25 mg PGF i.m., followed in 60 to 66 h with AI and 100 µg GnRH i.m. Heat detection patches were applied at the time of CIDR removal to determine estrus response by the time of AI, with cows having patches ≥ 50% activated defined as being in estrus and cows with patches < 50% activated defined as not experiencing estrus. In yr 2, an additional heat detection was performed 24 h before breeding, at which time cows with ≥ 50% activated heat detection patches were defined as having an early estrus (i.e., estrus more than 24 h before breeding) and cows with activated patches first observed at the time of AI were defined as having an on-time estrus. Pregnancy status was determined via transrectal ultrasonography 35 d after AI. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. As expected, cows in the 7&7 treatment had greater (P ≤ 0.005) estrus response and pregnancy rates than those in the CO-Synch treatment (83% vs. 62% and 65% vs. 55%, respectively). The proportion of cows experiencing early estrus was similar (P > 0.60) between treatments (20.4 and 22.9 for Co-Synch and 7&7, respectively). Interestingly, pregnancy rate was impacted by a treatment × estrus timing interaction (P = 0.04), where cows in the Co-Synch treatment that experienced an early estrus (52.9%) had reduced pregnancy rates compared with 7&7 cows that experienced early estrus (74.0%), Co-Synch cows that experienced on-time estrus (73.7%) and 7&7 cows that experienced on-time estrus (70.5%). Our results indicate the 7&7 Synch protocol can effectively increase pregnancy rates to fixed-time AI, and that pregnancy rates of cows experiencing early estrus are influenced by synchronization protocol.

Estrus response and pregnancy rate of swamp buffalo: The use of multivitamins in different estrus synchronization hormone protocols

Objective: This study aims to determine the effect of using multivitamins in different estrus synchronization hormone protocols on estrus response, estrus onset, estrus duration, estrus intensity, and pregnancy rate in swamp buffalo. Materials and Methods: This study used 30 post-partum adult buffalo, with three estrus synchronization methods treated: 1. Conventional plus Prostaglandin F2 α (PGF2α-PGF2α + multivitamin)-AI; 2. Co-synch plus Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-PGF2α + multivitamin)-AI; 3. Combination of hormone plus (Estrogen-Progesterone-PGF2α + multivitamin)-AI. Research variables include estrus response, estrus onset, estrus duration, estrus intensity, and pregnancy rate. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 23.0 program. Results: The results showed that the use of multivitamins in different estrus synchronization hormone protocols resulted in an estrous response reaching 100%. The onset of estrus in the three treatments [Treatment-1 (T1); Treatment-2 (T2); Treatment-3 (T3)] was 25.8; 27.6; 23.9 h, estrus duration: 21.0; 21.6; 21.92 h, estrus intensity: 25.8; 27.6; 32.6 h, and the pregnancy rate for buffalo reaches 80%. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the use of multivitamins in different estrus synchronization hormone protocols is effective in optimizing the swamp buffalo’s estrus response; the estrus duration is longer, the estrus onset is faster, and the estrus intensity is higher. It can even optimize the increase in swamp buffalo pregnancy rates.

Evaluation of the efficiency of estrus synchronization protocols combined with natural service and ultrasonography on ewe reproductive performance during non-breeding season.

Estrus synchronization is an important assisted reproductive technology to improve the reproductive performance in ewes. Various protocols have been used with variable success rates, however; literature regarding field applicable estrus synchronization is meagre. The present study was designed with the aim to evaluate the estrus synchronization protocols on reproductive performance in ewes using different hormones. Experimental ewes were divided randomly into three groups (n=15). Ewes of all groups received intravaginal sponge for 12 days. Subsequently, NP4-GnRH and NP4-eCG groups received 8 µg of buserelin acetate or 200 IU of eCG intramuscularly, respectively on day 12 whereas NP4-Insulin group received insulin 0.2 IU/kg body weight subcutaneously for three consecutive days started on the day of sponge removal. Estrus detection commenced 24 h after sponge removal in NP4-GnRH and NP4-eCG groups and 24 h following last injection of insulin in NP4-Insulin group. The ewes in estrus were separated and pen mated. The conception rate was determined by ultrasonography. The estrus response and conception rates were 71.43, 92.86 and 53.85%, and 70.00, 84.61, and 71.43%, respectively in NP4-GnRH, NP4-eCG, and NP4-Insulin groups. The lambing rates were the same as the conception rates. The single and multiple birth rates were 71.41, 36.36 and 60.0%, and 28.57, 63.64, and 40.0% whereas prolificacy was 128.57, 190.91, and 140.00%, respectively in NP4-GnRH, NP4-eCG, and NP4-Insulin groups. In conclusion, the estrus synchronization protocol including intravaginal progesterone sponge and eCG was found to be more effective under field conditions.

179 Cost and Profit Per Pregnancy Associated with Estrous Synchronization Utilizing Estrus Detection And/Or Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination

Abstract This experiment aimed to compare synchronization cost associated with two protocols: one utilizing estrus detection (6d; PG 6-d CIDR+TAI) and one utilizing strictly fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI; 7d; 7-d CO-Synch+CIDR). Cows and heifers (n = 657) from 10 herds in three states were grouped by days postpartum and age, and randomly assigned to one of two protocols. Cows and heifers assigned to the 6 d protocol were administered prostaglandin F2α (PGF) on d-9, CIDR insertion and administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH1) on d -6, and CIDR removal and PGF administration on d 0. Cows and heifers that were assigned to the 6-d protocol were subsequently grouped into three treatments based on presence and/or timing of estrus and insemination (PG1: Insemination before CIDR insertion, n = 136; PG2: Insemination after CIDR removal, n = 26; T6: Insemination at TAI, n = 166). Cows and heifers assigned to the 7-d protocol (T7: Insemination at FTAI, n = 329) were administered GnRH1 and CIDR insertion on d -7, followed by CIDR removal and PGF administration on d 0. For all animals, FTAI and GnRH2 administration occurred at 54 h (heifers) or 66 h (cows) after CIDR removal. Pregnancy was determined from d 30 to d 40 after FTAI by transrectal ultrasonography. Total cost and profit per pregnancy was calculated for herds of 30, 100, 300, and 500 females with varying estrus response and pregnancy rates. Expenditures were calculated assuming synchronization costs (PG1 = $46.15, PG2 = $75.05, T6 = $77.91, T7 = $73.72), general labor cost considering herd size and handling days, as well as estrus detection labor cost assuming $10.00 per h, a 95% overall herd pregnancy rate, a 1:40 bull:cow ratio, and average bull purchase price of $3,000.00. Revenue was estimated assuming a maximum 205-d weaning age, 1.09 kg/d gain, $200.00/45.4 kg, and 85% weaning rate. Differences in estrus response and pregnancy rate were determined using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (v9.4), including herd as a random variable. Estrus response was greater (P < 0.0001) in females assigned to the 6d (73 ± 4%) compared with the 7d (53 ± 4%) protocol; however, pregnancy success was similar among treatment groups (P = 0.32; PG1 = 45 ± 4%, PG2 = 58 ± 10%, T6 = 46±4%, T7 = 52±3%). At the observed estrus response and pregnancy rate for each treatment group, the 6d protocol resulted in a decreased cost per pregnancy compared with the 7d protocol [Table 1; herds of: 30 = ($3.53), 100 = ($5.16), 300 = ($6.58), 500 = ($7.00) females]. Additionally, using the same variables, the 6d protocol resulted in an increased profit per pregnancy compared with the 7d protocol (herds of: 30 = $3.50, 100 = $6.41, 300 = $17.27, 500 = $12.06 females). These results suggest that labor associated with estrus detection may be offset by the proportion of calves subsequently born earlier within the calving season, allowing for improvements to profitability, especially in larger herds.

PSIII-12 The Effects of PGF2 and PGF2 Plus Gnrh on Estrous Behavior and Pregnancy Outcomes in Dairy Goats

Abstract Artificial insemination protocols depend on efficient behavioral estrus detection and insemination time in dairy goats. Here we examined the effects of two synchronization protocols, prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α; protocol 1) and PGF2 plus gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; protocol 2) on estrus behavior, body temperature, pulse frequency, pregnancy protein B (PPB) concentrations, and pregnancy rates in Alpine and Saanen goats. Forty does (3.9 ± 0.28 year) were divided into two groups (20 each) with 10 Alpine and 10 Saanen females in each group. In protocol 1 goats were injected with 10 mg/goat PGF2α on day 0 and 11. In protocol 2, each goat was injected with 10 mg PGF2α on day 0, and 43 µg GnRH on day 9 and then 10 mg PGF2 α on day 11. Estrus signs were detected 24 to 36 hours after the second dose of PGF2α. Body temperature and pulse frequency were recorded on days 11, 12, 13, and 14 after the second dose of PGF2α. Goats that showed estrus signs were naturally bred with the same breed mature buck. Blood samples were collected on days 28, 35, and 42 post-breeding (PB) to assess PPB concentrations, and ultrasonography was performed on day 50 (PB) to confirm pregnancy. The percentage of female showed estrous was higher in protocol 1 than in 2 (70% vs. 60%). Irrespective of the breed, rectal and vulval temperature was higher in the protocol 2 than 1 at day 11 after PGF2 α injection; however, it was the opposite at days 12, 13, and 14. However, the pulse frequency was greater (P < 0.05) in protocol 2 at all the time point. Pregnancy rates were 71.4% and 75.0% for protocols 1 and 2, respectively. Irrespective to the synchronization protocols, the pregnancy rates were greater (P < 0.05) in Alpine than Saanen goats. In conclusion, both PGF2 and PGF2-GnRH protocols were effective in synchronizing estrus in Alpine and Saanen goats, with minor differences in estrus response rates and pregnancy outcomes. Breed-specific variations were observed within the protocols, indicating a potential influence of breed on the efficacy of estrous synchronization. This study contributes valuable insights to goat breeding programs and promotes more efficient and sustainable livestock management practices.

Ruling out Efficacy of Hormonal Protocols alone or Fortified with Mineral and Bypass Fat for Treatment of Postpartum Anoestrus in Cattle

Background: High milk production and excellent fertility is a dream of livestock owners.The major reproductive disorders which lead to decrease the productivity and reproductive ability of farm animals is postpartum anestrous.Recently, kisspeptin was reported as game changer in the animal reproduction. Kisspeptin increases the number of follicles at wave emergence, oestrus response rate and duration of oestrus. Thus, indicating its potentiality for induction of oestrus in anestrous animals. Methods: The present study was conducted to compare the efficacy of Ovsynch and kisspeptin protocol and need of fortification for treatment of postpartum anestrous.Fifty postpartum anestrous cows were selected. The animals were divided into four treatment groups (10 cows in each) and treated with Ovsynch (Group I), Ovsynch fortified with mineral mixture (MM) and bypass fat (BPF) (Group II), kisspeptin (Group III) and kisspeptin fortified with MM +BPF (Group IV). The remaining 10 cows served as control (Group V). The oestrus response was recorded on the basis of behavioral signs, physical signs and clinico-gynaecological changes. The blood was collected following treatment for hormonal estimation. The pregnancy was confirmed on day 45 post AI using ultrasound. Result: The oestrusresponse was pronounced in Ovsynch as compared to kisspeptin groups. Further, fortification has enhanced the response. The serum oestrogen concentration increased following treatment and was significantly high on day of onset of oestruswith highest concentration in group II. The results indicate Ovsynchdistinguishly succeeded in addressing postpartum anestrus with fortification enhances fertility response.However, kisspeptin also emerged as a potent candidate for the resumption of cyclicity.

Ovarian activity and reproductive responses of lactating Angus cows due to a mineral supplementation throughout a timed AI protocol.

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of intramuscular administration of minerals during a TAI program on the reproductive responses of lactating Angus cows. All cows (n=353) were subjected to a 9-day TAI program based on CIDR insertion plus injections of estradiol, cloprostenol, and eCG, and then TAI 48 h later. In experiment 1, two groups were randomly created, one control with a placebo injection (CON, n=109), and the second received 10 mL of Fosfosan® (MIN, n=172) on day 0 of the synchronization. Conception rate (66.9 vs. 55%) and estrus percentage (55.8 vs. 44%) were higher (P≤0.05) in MIN than in CON cows. Given these results, a second experiment was conducted randomly assigning the cows to two treatments (n=36 each): a single injection of 10 mL of Fosfosan® (MIN-O) on day 0 or two injections of 10 mL of Fosfosan® (MIN-T) on synchronization days 0 and 7. Four cows of each treatment were randomly selected to be scanned with transrectal ultrasound before and during the synchronization protocol to assess ovarian structures and cyclicity, and at day 39 post-TAI for pregnancy diagnosis. Also, blood samples were obtained for the determination of serum minerals and progesterone (P4) concentrations. The number of mineral injections did not affect conception rate (P≥0.1229) conception rate, serum mineral and P4 concentrations, number, and size of emerging follicles, or follicle size according to 1 to 4 classifications. The MIN-T promoted (P<0.05) earlier follicular wave emergence than MIN-O. However, MIN-O cows had a dominant follicle of 15.12 mm, which is more significant (P<0.05) than that in MIN-T cows (13.5 mm). In conclusion, providing a single mineral injection of Fosfosan® at the start of a TAI program is an excellent reproductive strategy in lactating Angus cows to improve the dominant follicle growth, estrus response, and conception rate.

Ovarian activity, metabolic and physiological parameters of canindé goats submitted to short-term supplementation with licuri oil

This study aimed to evaluate the estrous behavior, ovarian activity, feed intake, metabolic and physiological parameters of Canindé goats supplemented for nine days with Licuri oil (Syagrus coronata). Thirty-six adult female goats were distributed randomly into two groups: control group (n = 18) without Licuri oil and the oil group (n = 18) receiving a supplement containing 3% Licuri oil. The short-term food supplementation was associated with an estrus synchronization protocol. The number of ovulations and follicle diameter were evaluated by ultrasonography. Dry matter intake (DMI) and nutrient intake, water ingestion, and physiological parameters such as rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), and serum concentrations of cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were also determined. As concern statistical analysis, ANOVA followed by Fisher’s LSD was used and the differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. The control group showed higher HR and RR in the afternoon shift compared to the Oil group. The Oil group showed lower DMI but higher ether extract intake, and serum cholesterol and NEFA concentration than control group. Treatments did not affect estrus response and ovulation rate, but the Licuri oil increased the number of small follicles. The supplementation of Licuri oil improved thermal comfort during the dry season and a marginal increase in the ovarian activity was observed.

Dietary supplementation with different nano and organic selenium doses improves ovarian activity, fertility rate, and progesterone level in Ossimi ewes

This study aimed to investigate the effects of nano and organic selenium on ovarian activity, fertility rate, and progesterone hormone levels in Ossimi ewes. Thirty ewes were treated with intra-vaginal sponges impregnated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (40 mg) for 14 d and simultaneously assigned randomly to three groups. The 1st group ewe served as control (CG). Ewes in the 2nd and 3rd groups were treated orally with organic selenium 3 mg/ewe and Nano-selenium 0.2 mg/ewes during intra-vaginal sponges (IVS) treatment SeG and N-SeG, respectively. The ovarian activity was monitored using an ultrasonic device, and serum samples were harvested for progesterone measurement. The results revealed that ewes in SeG and N-SeG groups had a significantly (p < .05) higher number of small and large follicles after 48 h of IVS withdrawal than in the CG, respectively, on the left ovary. Also, the N-SeG group had a larger diameter of the Corpus luteum on both ovaries’ sides than CG, respectively, at the same time. However, the diameter of large follicles on both ovaries was significantly (p < .05) larger in the N-SeG after 72 h of IVS withdrawal than in SeG and CG. The ewes in N-SeG and SeG came in oestrus earlier (p < .05) than those in CG, and the oestrus durations were longer (p < .05) than that recorded in ewes of CG. The oestrus response and fertility rate were higher (p < .01) in N-SeG and SeG than in CG. Moreover, the progesterone concentrations were significantly higher (p < .05) in the N-SeG and SeG after 48 and 72 h of IVS withdrawal than in the CG. Also, the recorded serum progesterone concentrations in the included ewes non-significantly differed between groups during the first four months of pregnancy. It could be concluded that using nano and organic selenium can improve the quality of ovarian follicles and CL function and enhance the fertility rate in Ossimi ewes.

Effects of hesperidin on the oestrous cycle of Yankasa ewes

The study was conducted to investigate the effect of hesperidin on the oestrous cycle of Yankasa ewes. Twenty-six Yankasa ewes (26 ewes) aged 8 – 18 months were randomly assigned into treatment (n = 16) and control (n = 10) groups. The treatment group was given hesperidin at a dose rate of 200 mg/kg BW, once weekly for 4 weeks, while the control group received - 10 mL of a mix of DMSO and normal saline. The signs of oestrus were observed twice daily between 6.00 – 11.00 a.m. and 2.00 – 6.00 p.m. The time of onset of oestrus (TOO), oestrus response rate (ORR), and oestrus duration (OD) were determined for 3 oestrous cycles. The result showed that the TOO of the hesperidin-fed group was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower than those of the control group in the 2nd and 3rd oestrous cycles. ORR and OD were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in the hesperidin-fed group compared to the control in the 2nd and 3rd oestrous cycles. The study indicates that hesperidin administration improved the TOO, ORR and OD in Yankasa ewes.

Efficiency evaluation of two estrus synchronization protocols in estrus response and conception rate of dairy cows in the Dalocha district, Ethiopia

The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of single and double-shot estrus synchronization protocols on conception and estrus response rates in dairy cows. Among 195 sampled female animals, only 174 cows and heifers met a standard of the protocols. Animals were prepared for hormone injections based on their breed, parity number, and body condition score (BCS). Among 174 sampled animals, 120 were indigenous and the rest 54 were crossbreds, and 143 cows and 31 heifers were selected for single alfagladin C (Cloprostenol) injections. Whereas, 16 of them were given double alfagladin C (Cloprostenol) injections when they did not showed estrus prior to single injection. All data was collected and analyzed by SPSS version 20 software. Through observation, inspection and rectal palpation, 90.8% of 174 synchronized animals showed estrus response with a single dose, whereas 16 of them (100%) showed estrus response with double injections. Overall, 48.3% of cows and heifers became pregnant. The conception rate of cows/heifers varied significantly through each protocol, with 50% of animals conceived by double injection treatment and 48.1% of cows conceived through single shot treatment. Additionally, there was a substantial difference in estrus response across breeds, BCS, and parity number. Furthermore, the rates of conception in local and crossbred cows were 40.8 and 64.8%, respectively. In terms of body condition, a high conception rate (58.6%) was observed in the good body condition score. The conception rate and estrus response were significantly different in parity number. In general, the double protocol outperform than the single protocol in terms of estrus and conception rate. Accordingly, stakeholders or artificial insemination technicians might apply double protocols after a single injection to obtain remarkable results. Nevertheless, strict follow-up is required, and more resources at the farmer's management level are required.

Assessment of Estrus Response and Fertility Rate in Thari Cows Following Estrus Synchronization During Peak and Low Breeding Season

Assessment of Estrus Response and Fertility Rate in Thari Cows Following Estrus Synchronization During Peak and Low Breeding Season

EFFECTIVENESS OF OZONE TREATMENT IN CURING UTERINE INFECTIONS AND ASSOCIATED MASTITIS IN DAIRY ANIMALS

To find the association between uterine infection and mastitis and to compare the effectiveness of ozone treatment and antibiotics in curing these infections, 200 dairy cows were screened by culturing uterine and milk samples on blood agar containing 5% sheep blood. A total of 52 animals either suffering from mastitis or uterine infections were isolated and divided into four groups to receive antibiotic or ozone treatments i.e., MA (mastitis animals treated with antibiotics), MO (mastitis animals treated with ozone), UA (uterine infected animals treated with antibiotics) and UO (uterine infected animals treated with ozone). The UA and UO groups were further treated with ovsynch estrus synchronization protocol on 14th day after the start of ozone or antibiotic treatment. The estrus response and pregnancy rate were determined to evaluate the efficiency of ozone or antibiotic treatment in uterine infected animals. The results showed a significant (P&lt;0.05) association between uterine infection and mastitis based on the presence of common pathogen. The cure rates in MO (53.8%) was higher (P&lt;0.05) than MA (23.1%). Similarly, estrus response and pregnancy rate were significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) in UO group than UA group. In conclusion, ozone therapy is more effective in curing mastitis and uterine infections.

On Farm Trial of Prostaglandin Based Estrus Synchronization Protocols in Selected Milk-shed Areas of Amhara Region, Ethiopia

The present study was conducted from 2019 to 2020 in the Debre Birhan area of the Amhara region, Ethiopia, aiming to evaluate the effect of single-dose prostaglandin hormone in dairy cows and heifers at the smallholder farmer level. A total of 458 dairy cows and heifers were treated with 2ml of Synchromate® hormone, and after 77.82±2.74 hours, 286 of which (62.4%) were reported to have manifested estrus signs. Insemination was performed to 215 animals, 71 animals were not inseminated (the time for AI was passed when checked by rectal palpation) because of later reports by farmers after the cessation of estrus periods. Of the 215 animals that were inseminated, 82 (38.1%) conceived, and from the 82 animals that conceived, 79 (96.3%) gave birth. Estrus response and conception rate have not shown a significant difference between parity and body condition scores. However, treatment to estrus interval has been found to be significantly (p&lt;0.05) influenced by parity, cows had shorter intervals than the heifers. This study indicated that there were problems in the detection and reporting of estrus response by the smallholder farmers, hence, requiring continuous training on dairy cow management.

PSV-A-1 Estrus Response and Pregnancy Rates of Beef Cows Enrolled in two Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination Protocols, with or without pre-Synchronization

Abstract Pre-synchronization strategies with prolonged exposure to exogenous progesterone have the potential to alter estrus expression and improve fertility in beef cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the estrus response and pregnancy rate of suckled beef cows enrolled in two fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) protocols. A total of 1,216 cows (angus-crossed) at 10 locations across VA were enrolled in the study. Within location, cows were ranked by body weight, and days postpartum and randomly assigned to one of two treatments: 1) 7&amp;7 (n = 610), cows were administered prostaglandin F2α (PGF; 25 mg) and a controlled internal drug releasing (CIDR) insert [Day -14], an injection of GnRH (100 μg [Day -7]), PGF injection and CIDR removal [Day 0], and a second injection of GnRH concurrently with TAI 64 ± 2 h later [Day 2]; 2) 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR (7-day; n = 606), cows were administered GnRH (100 μg) and a CIDR insert [Day -7], PGF (25 mg) injection and CIDR removal [Day 0], and a second injection of GnRH concurrently with TAI 64 ± 2 h later [Day 2]. All cows received an estrus alert patch (ESTROTECT) on Day 0 and were evaluated for patch activation at TAI on Day 2. Pregnancy was diagnosed by transrectal ultrasonography between 45 and 65 days after TAI. The percentage of cows exhibiting estrus between Day 0 and 2 was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.001) for 7&amp;7 compared with 7-day cows (72.8% and 55.9%, respectively). However, pregnancy rate to TAI was similar (P = 0.328) between treatments (63.8% and 61.1%, for 7&amp;7 and 7-day, respectively). We conclude that suckled beef cows enrolled in the 7&amp;7 TAI protocol had increased estrus expression, but similar pregnancy rate when compared with cows enrolled in the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR TAI protocol.

Effect of adding carrots as feed supplementation on reproductive performance in Awassi ewes

The present study was designed to estimate the effect of carrots supplementation on reproductive performance in ewes. Thirty Awassi ewes. Ewes were randomly divided into three equal groups, distributed as 10 ewes for each group. First group consider as control, second group feed 400 g carrot/animal daily, third group feed 800 g carrot/animal daily. Each group were synchronized with intra vaginal sponges and injected with 400 IU of eCG at the time of sponge withdrawal. Estrus ewes were conceived naturally with rams and pregnant ewes were followed until parturition. The results of current study demonstrated that G3 had high estrus response and fertility rate 90% compared with G2 and control 80 and 70% respectively. Fecundity rate increased significant in G3 200% compared to G2 and 125 and 100% respectively. Ewes in G3 showed the highest multiple lambing rate 66.67% compared with G2 25% and control 0%. Blood progesterone concentration was high increasing at the 18th day of estrus in the ewes for G3 and G2 compared with control, also, estrogen level at the day of estrus showed high increasing in G3 compared with G2 and control group. We concluded that carrots fed as a supplementation have essential effect on enhancement of reproductive performance in ewes.

Effect of Different Synchronization Regimens on Reproductive Variables of Crossbred (Swamp × Riverine) Nulliparous and Multiparous Buffaloes during Peak and Low Breeding Seasons.

Simple SummaryParity and season are two prominent variants which influence buffalo reproductive performance and synchronization outcome. The present study compared modified new Ovsynch synchronization (GPGMH) protocol with conventional Ovsynch (OVS) in reproductive parameters of buffaloes with different parity (nulliparous and multiparous) in different seasons (peak and low breeding seasons). Compared to the conventional Ovsynch, the modified GPGMH protocol was more effective to enhance the estrus rate, ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in multiparous crossbred buffaloes. In addition, the application of GPGMH protocol improve the reproductive performance during the peak breeding season than low breeding season.The present study was conducted to examine the effect of conventional the Ovsynch protocol (OVS) and a modified Ovsynch synchronization (GPGMH) protocol on the follicular dynamics, estrus, ovulation, and pregnancy in nulliparous and multiparous crossbred (swamp × riverine) buffaloes during different seasons. GPGMH or OVS protocols were used to synchronize nulliparous (n = 128; GPGMH = 94, OVS = 34) and multiparous (n = 154; GPGMH = 122, OVS = 32) buffaloes during the peak (n = 186; GPGMH = 143, OVS = 43) and low breeding (n = 96; GPGMH = 73, OVS = 23) seasons. Buffaloes were monitored for follicular dynamics, estrus response, ovulation, and pregnancy rates. The results showed that protocol, parity, and season had significant effects on estrus, ovulation, and pregnancy variables, and interactions among parity and protocol, season and protocol, and season and parity were observed for few of reproductive indices in the crossbred buffaloes. There were no significant (p > 0.05) interaction for protocol, parity and season. In multiparous buffaloes, the application of the GPGMH protocol significantly (p < 0.05) increased the interaction to the interval to estrus onset after the second GnRH, estrus response, ovulation rate, and pregnancy rate, and lowered (p < 0.05) the silent estrus when compared with the conventional OVS protocol. During the peak breeding season, the application of the GPGMH protocol significantly (p < 0.05) improved the interaction to the estrus response, ovulation rate, and pregnancy rate, while it lowered (p < 0.05) the silent estrus incidence when compared to the conventional OVS protocol. In conclusion, the GPGMH protocol, in comparison to the OVS protocol, improves the follicular dynamics, estrus response, ovulation, and pregnancy rates in crossbred multiparous buffaloes during the peak breeding seasons.

Comparative study of short term and long term protocols for progesterone based estrus synchronization in ewes during breeding season

The study was designed to compare the effect of length of progesterone treatment (6 d vs 10 d vs 14 d) on synchronization efficiency and fertility response in multiparous ewes. The crossbred ewes (30) were equally allotted to three groups designated as short (6 days), medium (10 days) and long-term (14 days) treatment. All the ewes were injected PGF2α 250 μg, intramuscularly 24 h before sponge removal. After the sponge removal ewes were kept with breeding rams for tupping upto 72 h. Although the onset of estrus was more precise in short and long term groups, however overall estrus response rate was highest in short treatment group (90%) followed by long treatment group (70%) and medium treatment group (60%). The pregnancy rates were non-significantly higher for short and medium treatment groups than long treatment group. The progesterone values in pregnant ewes, decreased significantly from day pre-treatment to day 0 followed by significant increase from day 0 to day 10, 17 and 35. In conclusion, short term (6 d) intravaginal progesterone treatment may replace the traditional long term treatment (14 d) for induction of estrous during breeding season. However, the results should be validated in larger number of animals before recommending the protocol.