High Reproductive Performance Research Articles

Nervonic acid triggered ovarian inflammation by inducing mitochondrial oxidative stress to activate NLRP3/ IL-1β pathway

IntroductionMetabolic syndrome is a serious public health concern across the globe. However, the typical metabolites and mechanisms underlying the decreased fertility related to metabolic syndrome is still elusive. ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to explore the typical metabolites and mechanisms underlying the decreased fertility related with metabolic syndrome. MethodsUtilizing metabolomics, a comparative analysis was conducted on fatty acid compositions in various tissues of sows with high and low reproductive performance. Additionally, serum fatty acid compositions in a metabolic syndrome model (obese mice) induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) were investigated to elucidate the lipid metabolites associated with metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, the impact of nervonic acid (NA) on ovarian function was examined using rodent animal models (rats and mice). Through biological techniques such as transcriptomics, CUT&Tag, and analysis of post-translational protein modifications, the molecular mechanisms underlying NA mediated ovarian inflammation were further elucidated based on models utilizing ovarian granulosa cells from pigs, humans, and mice. Finally, validation was performed on ovaries from patients diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome. ResultsIn vitro, targeted serum lipidomic analysis revealed that sows with low embryo survival rates exhibited abnormal lipid metabolism characterized by abnormal accumulation of NA in the liver, ovary, and adipose tissue. Additionally, elevated NA levels trigger ovarian inflammation to cause ovarian dysfunction in both sows and rats. Mechanistically, NA induce mitochondrial oxidative stress through inhibiting respiratory chain proteins CYTB and NDFUB8 to activate NLRP3 inflammasome, which triggers procaspase-1 into active caspase-1, and convert the cytokine precursors pro-IL-1β into biologically active IL-1β in ovarian granulosa cells. Notably, we evidenced that NA promotes IL-1β activities by increasing H3K9ac modification level of IL-1β promoter regions and regulating the expression of the transcription factor AP-1. Finally, we found that the decreased expression of CerS2 in ovaries and the increased level of chemokine CXCL14 may be the cause of abnormal NA accumulation. Surprisingly, individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver or gestational diabetes mellitus exhibit a high level of serum NA. ConclusionCollectively, our current study suggests that NA is a typical metabolite of metabolic syndrome, which strongly influences the ovarian function and embryo survival and also provides that interfering with mitochondrial ROS production is a potential strong strategy for target solving abnormal NA accumulation.

Prediction of reproductive performance in wintering females of Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii, Brandt) based on in vitro ovulation rate of isolated follicles

Early prediction of the reproductive success of sturgeon females is important both for artificial breeding conditions in sturgeon farms and for monitoring wild fish populations approaching spawning. This study demonstrated that ovarian follicles removed from wintering Acipenser baerii females can undergo in vitro ovulation when exposed to 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one. The research was conducted from 2015 to 2021 and involved the examination of 110 wintering Siberian sturgeon females (A. baerii), with an average weight of 8–11 kg and an age range of 8–10 years. Selection of females for spawning was based on the polarization index (PI) at the time when the river temperature dropped to +8 °C. The selected females were overwintered in concrete flow-through tanks with water from the Volga River for approximately two months. At the end of this period, oocyte samples were collected for in vitro incubation. An increase in water temperature to 15 °C, which precedes spawning, was achieved by mixing with warm effluent from a regional power station. The reproductive success of females was evaluated based on fertilization and embryonic survival rates. High reproductive success was characterized by females with fertilization rates above 70% and hatching rates above 60%. We identified a positive correlation between the percentage of in vitro ovulated follicles and the in vivo fertilization and embryo survival rates, with correlation coefficients of Rsp = 0.60 and Rsp = 0.48, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that females whose in vitro ovulation rate of follicles exceeded 30% displayed high reproductive performance compared to those with an in vitro ovulation rate below 30%. The predictive accuracy of this criterion was determined by calculating the ratio of ranks between females with high and low reproductive performance, averaging 80.9% for fertilization and 77% for embryonic survival. Therefore, we propose a new criterion to select females of A. baerii for spawning based on the in vitro oocyte ovulation rate obtained from wintering individuals.

Association between body condition profiles, milk production and reproduction performance in Holstein and Normande cows

Body-condition dynamics are known to affect the different steps of reproduction in cattle (cyclicity, estrus expression, fertilization, embryo development). This has led to a widespread idea that there is an ideal-target optimal body condition, but no clear profile has yet been identified. Here we investigated the relationships between body condition score (BCS) profiles and reproductive performance in dairy cows. Data were from Holstein or Normande herds in 6 French experimental farms. In the Holstein breed, we discriminated 4 BCS profiles based on combining BCS at calving (Low: around 2.6 points, or High: around 3.3 points) with BCS loss after calving (Moderate (M): ≤ 1.0 points, or Severe (S): > 1.0 points). The Low-M profile mostly included multiparous cows with higher milk yield and lower reproductive performance than cows in the 3 other profiles. Low-M cows that experienced abnormal ovarian activity had lower reproductive performance than their profile-mates. Moreover, 67% of Low-M cows kept the same profile at the following lactation. The High-S profile mostly included primiparous cows with lower milk yield and higher reproductive performance than cows in other profiles. In High-S cows, higher milk yields correlated to higher risk of failure to calf on first insemination. Moreover, 38% of High-S cows kept the same profile at the following lactation, and none changed to Low-M. The other 2 BCS profiles (Low-S and High-M) were intermediate in terms of milk yield and reproductive performance. In Normande, we discriminated 3 BCS profiles based on combining BCS at calving (Low: around 2.6 points, or High: around 3.5 points) with BCS loss after calving (Flat (F): flat with no loss, Moderate (M): around 0.5 points, or Severe (S): around 1.0 point). The Low-M and High-S profiles included cows with similar performance, even though High-S-profile cows showed better but not significantly different milk yield and reproduction performance. The High-F profile included cows that were more likely to experience abnormal ovarian activity and fail at first insemination than cows in other profiles. More than 50% of Normande cows with 2 successive lactations kept in the same BCS profile at the next lactation. Even though a low BCS at calving combined with severe BCS loss (more than 1 point) after calving was found to increase reproductive failure, there was no evidence of an optimal BCS profile for reproduction in dairy cows, and reproductive success or failure is multifactorial.

Prevalence and Genetic Characterization of Giardia duodenalis and Blastocystis spp. in Black Goats in Shanxi Province, North China: From a Public Health Perspective.

Blastocystis spp. and Giardia duodenalis are two prevalent zoonotic intestinal parasites that can cause severe diarrhea and intestinal diseases in humans and many animals. Black goat (Capra hircus) farming is increasingly important in China due to the remarkable adaptability, high reproductive performance, rapid growth rate, and significant economic value of black goats. A number of studies have indicated that black goats are the potential reservoir of multiple zoonotic protozoans in China; however, the prevalence and zoonotic status of G. duodenalis and Blastocystis spp. in black goats in Shanxi Province is still unknown. Thus, a total of 1200 fecal samples of black goats were collected from several representative regions at different altitudes in Shanxi Province and were examined for the presence and genotypes of G. duodenallis and Blastocystis spp. by amplifying the beta-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), and triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) loci of G. duodenalis and SSU rRNA of Blastocystis spp. using PCR and sequence analysis methods, respectively. The overall prevalence of G. duodenalis and Blastocystis spp. in black goats in Shanxi Province were 7.5% and 3.5%, respectively. Two assemblages (B and E) of G. duodenalis and four subtypes (ST5, ST10, ST14, and ST30) of Blastocystis spp. were identified, with assemblage E and ST10 as the prevalent genotype and subtype in black goats, respectively. One novel multilocus genotype (MLG) was identified in MLG-E and was designated as MLG-E12. For both G. duodenalis and Blastocystis spp., the prevalence was significantly related to the region and age groups (p < 0.05). This is the first report on the prevalence of G. duodenalis and Blastocystis spp. in black goats in Shanxi Province. These results not only provide baseline data for the prevention and control of both parasites in black goats in Shanxi Province, but also enhance our understanding of the genetic composition and zoonotic potential of these two parasites.

Chemical Composition of Newborn Piglets with Different Weights at Birth in Sows with a High Reproductive Performance.

The present study aimed to quantify and update the data on the body composition (energy nutrients) of newborn piglets of different body weights at the time of birth, as well as of the placenta mass. Data were collected from newborn piglets (n = 25) from modern genetic lines which were stillborn or died within the first 24 h of life after being crushed to death with various body weights at birth (<0.8 kg (n = 5); 0.8-1.2 kg (n = 5); >1.2-1.6 kg (common birth weight, n = 10) and >1.6 kg (n = 5)). The placenta (n = 20) of sows from a conventional breeding farm were collected, too. The body composition of newborns of "normal" (>1.2-1.6 kg) and even lighter (0.8-1.2) weights still indicated a "normal" composition. In the case of a lower body weight of piglets <0.8 kg at birth, the crude ash (24.1%) and crude protein (8.21%) contents were higher, but the crude fat (16.1%), carbohydrate (57.4%), and gross energy (3.60%) contents were lower. The placental composition in comparison to the piglet body composition was characterized by higher crude protein contents (24.3%) and lower crude ash (31.6%), crude fat (9.08%), and carbohydrate (55.6%) contents. In conclusion, the energy and protein accumulation in the total mass of fetuses and placentas increased by 75% and 64%, respectively, in comparison to times in which the litter size varied around 10-12 piglets, essentially as a result of the larger fetal mass and not of a different body composition.

Effects of broodstock sex pairing ratios and rest periods of the nile tilapia &lt;i&gt;Oreochromis&lt;/i&gt; &lt;i&gt;niloticus&lt;/i&gt; on fry production

This study evaluated the effects of varying male to female brood stock pairing ratios of 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3 with resting intervals of 0, 3 and 7 days on fry production of the Nile tilapia at the Aquaculture Demonstration Centre (ADC), Ashaiman, Ghana. Nine (9) treatments were arranged according to a 3 x 3 factorial design with three replicates giving a total of 27 spawning hapas (1 m3). Male and female brooders of mean body weight (229 ± 5.43 g and 171.6 ± 21.7 g respectively) were paired at the different sex ratios. Water temperature and DO were taken daily whiles pH, salinity and ammonia were measured weekly. All the water quality parameters were within suitable range for Nile tilapia fry production. The total mean fry output for the sex pairing ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3) were 716 ± 344, 973 ± 325 and 723 ± 577 respectively. The total fry output for 0, 3 and 7 days of resting were 1503 ± 868, 2030 ± 637 and 3051 ± 1054 respectively with an observed 35% (3 days rest) and 103% (7 days rest) fry production increment over the 0-resting treatment. With respect to the combined effect of varying sex ratios and resting periods, the highest mean fry production (701 ± 405) was attained under the 7 days resting period at a pairing ratio of 1:2. The high reproductive performance of broodstock pairing ratio 1:2 and resting period of 7 days under this study confirms its efficient as a broodstock management technique for an increased Nile tilapia fry production.&#x0D;

Research Note: Effect of different photoperiodic programs from rearing period on the reproductive performance and hormone secretion of White King pigeons

The photoperiod is an important factor during rearing and laying period that affects age and body weight at sexual maturation and reproductive performance in poultry; however relevant research on this factor in pigeons is still lacking. Thus, this study investigated the effects of different photoperiodic programs on the reproductive performance and hormonal profile in White King pigeons. From 101 d of age, the pigeons in the control group were exposed to a natural photoperiod until 160 d, and then to a photoperiod of 16 h (16 light [L]: 8 dark [D]) and lasted for 200 d. Pigeons in the 3 experimental groups were exposed to a short photoperiod of 8L: 16D until 160 d, and then to 14L: 10D, 16L: 8D, and 18L: 6D, respectively. The results showed that light-restriction (8L: 16D) during the rearing period and then 14L: 10D or 16L: 8D photostimulation delayed the age at first egg laying in pigeons. However, 16L: 8D after an 8L: 16D photoperiod during the breeding period ensured maximum photosensitivity, and significantly improved the reproductive performance (egg production and fertility rates) in pigeons. Moreover, the highest reproductive performance in group under16L: 8D after 8L: 16D photoperiodic program was accompanied by improved follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol levels and reduced prolactin hormone levels. The results indicated that photoperiodic programs from rearing to laying period are closely related to the reproductive performance of White King pigeons. The results provide information that 8L: 16D during rearing period and 16L: 8D during laying period can be used to enhance reproductive performance in the pigeon industry.

Parity changed fecal microbiota of sows and its correlation with milk long-chain fatty acid profiles.

The goal of this study was to characterize the fecal microbiota profiles of gestating sows, along with the fecal microbiota and milk fatty acid contents of lactating sows and their correlations with reproductive performance at different parities. The results showed that the microbiota of third parity gestating sows contained a greater abundance of Prevotella compared to the other two parity groups, while lactating sows exhibiting higher reproductive performance at fifth parity exhibited a greater abundance of Lactobacillus species. The lactating sows with higher reproductive performance also exhibited higher total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and higher total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels relative to sows with lower reproductive performance at all three analyzed parities, especially sows at fifth parity produced the lowest total saturated fatty acid (SFA) levels, and showed the highest C18:1n9c and C18:2n6c concentrations. In correlational analyses, the abundance of Oligella, Lactobacillus, and Corynebacterium was highly positively correlated with C18:1n9c, C18:2n6c, and C20:4n6. Overall, these results provide a rational basis for efforts to improve sow reproductive performance through the provision of precisely regulated nutrition. KEY POINTS: • Clear differences in the fecal microbiota were evident between sows of different parities. • Lactating sows with high reproductive performance showed distinct milk fatty acid profiles.

High reproductive performance in a dioecious taxon irrespective of asynchronous flowering patterns: a case study of Zanthoxylum armatum DC.

High reproductive performance in a dioecious taxon irrespective of asynchronous flowering patterns: a case study of Zanthoxylum armatum DC.

The role of GnRH in Tibetan male sheep and goat reproduction.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis connects the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and gonads. The regulation of reproductive processes includes integrating various factors from structural functions and environmental conditions in the HPG axis, with the outcome indication of these processes being the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. These factors include feed consumption and nutritional condition, sex steroids, season/photoperiod, pheromones, age, and stress. GnRH pulsatile secretion affects the pattern of gonadotropin secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which then regulates both endocrine function and gamete maturation in the gonads. This regulates gonadotropins and testosterone (T) production. There is evidence that in males, GnRH participates in a variety of host behavioural and physiological processes such as the release of reproductive hormones, progression of spermatogenesis and sperm function, aggressive behaviour, and physiological metabolism. GnRH activates receptors expressed on Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, respectively to stimulate T secretion and spermatogenesis in the testis. Photoperiod affects the reproductive system of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis via rhythmic diurnal melatonin secretion. Increased release of melatonin promotes sexual activity, GnRH production, LH stimulation, and T production. This induces testicular functions, spermatogenesis, and puberty. GnRH reduces the release of LH by the pituitary through the cascade effect and decreases plasma concentration of T. Gut microbiota maintain sex steroid homeostasis and may induce reduction in reproduction productivity. Recently, findings of kisspeptin-neurokinin-dynorphin neuronal network in the brain have resulted in fast advances in how GnRH secretion is controlled. Emerging studies have also indicated that other neuropeptide analogues could be used in control reproduction procedures in various goat and sheep breeds. The Tibetan male sheep and goats reproduce on a seasonal basis and have high reproductive performance. This is a review for the role of GnRH in Tibetan male sheep and goats reproduction. This is intended to enhance reproductive knowledge for understanding the key roles of GnRH relating to male reproductive efficiency of Tibetan sheep or goats.

Decision making for sexed semen and beef semen in dairy production

Breeding strategies using sexed semen on younger and supe­rior animals and beef semen on older and inferior animals are becoming widely used in the dairy industry because it bal­ances the number of replacements produced and required while bringing extra income of selling crossbreed beef calves that are more valuable than dairy calves. The value proposition also implies genetic improvement because of greater breed­ing selection and shorter intergenerational interval, which can be captured in improved milk productivity. The best semen-type breeding strategy is farm specific and dependent on herd reproductive performance and ever-changing market condi­tions. Hence, the need to use models and projections to assert the optimal semen-type breeding strategy that optimizes the net return of each farm under specific market conditions. We analyzed the economic value of using alternative breeding strategies using sexed, beef and conventional semen using 2 ap­proaches. A short-term approach contained in a user-friendly decision support tool, the Premium Beef on Dairy Program, assessed the income from calves over semen costs over a breed­ing cycle whereas a long-term approach, using the Animal Life Cycle submodule of the Ruminant Farm Simulation Model, included additionally breeding, rearing and feed costs, and slaughter, heifer and milk sales revenues. Important in the long-term evaluation was the milk value change as a proxy for genetic improvement. Both approaches consistently pointed out that the advantage of the sexed/beef semen is positively related to herd reproductive performance. The greater the reproduc­tive performance the more the economic opportunity. With medium to high reproductive performance (above ~20% 21-d pregnancy rate), the Premium Beef on Dairy Program found the maximum income from calves over semen cost occurred when sexed semen was used in the first 2 heifer breedings and first and second lactation superior cows, while the rest of the heifer breedings were made with conventional semen and the rest of the cow breedings were made with beef semen. These results were consistent in the long-term analysis, which indi­cated that even a slightly more aggressive breeding approach using sexed semen in all heifer breedings resulted in the best net return in the long-term when the extra value of increased milk productivity became the most important economic factor. Although the short-term analysis did not include the herd dy­namics and milk changes, it still produced the right trend and directionality for decision making. The recommendation is to use the Premium Beef on Dairy user-friendly tool according to a herd’s reproductive performance and market conditions, and repeat the analysis constantly as the management and market circumstances change. When a deep and long-term analysis is necessary, the use of the Life Cycle Assessment submodule from the RuFaS is critical. Thus, both approaches are useful and complementary.

Reproductive Performance of Bali Cows through Artificial Insemination Program in Polewali Mandar Regency, West Sulawesi Province

Intensification of artificial insemination (AI) in Bali cattle is a government program to increase the population and productivity of local cattle. The objective of this study was to examine the reproductive performance of Bali cows through the AI program in Polewali Mandar Regency, West Sulawesi. The study was conducted in two different locations, i.e. in the low lands (&lt;300mASL) including Wonomulyo and Campalagian Districs, and high lands (&gt;300mASL) including Limboro and Bulo Districts. Data collection was carried out on farmers and inseminators profiles, and cow’s reproductive parameters including service per conception (S/C), conception rate (CR), calving rate (CvR), calving interval (CI) and Calf Mortality (CM). These data were calculated and analyzed descriptively. The cows in this study were raised by farmers in small-scale farm, mostly under 5 heads. The cattle breeding through AI program was carried out by inseminators with over 10 years of experience. In the lowlands, S/C values were 1.26-1.17 and CI were 360 to 366.31 days, respectively. Bali cows that were inseminated using Bali bull semen had a CvR of 75.69% which were higher than those using Simmental bull semen (CvR 49.69%;). While in the highlands, Bali cows that were inseminated with Bali bull semen tended to have higher S/C (1.30) and CI (356.95 days) values but had CvR of 61.00% and CR 77.00% which was also higher than that of Simmental bull semen (S/C 1,50; CI 412,86 days; CvR 50.00%; CR 66.67%). The high S/C in the highlands (1.50) is due to location constraints or the distance between the livestock and the inseminator's residence which is quite far, so it takes time to carry out AI services and is one of the factors that can cause the provision of AI services for female cows in heat is not optimal. In the highlands, most of the cattle are grazed in the grazing areas, making it difficult for breeders to detect estrus. In general, Bali cattle produced by AI in the low lands of Polewali Mandar district tended to have better reproductive performance than those in the high lands. The S/C in the low lands (1.26 and 1.17) is lower than that in the high lands (1.3 and 1.5). Keywords: AI, Bali cows, lower land, high land reproductive performance

Effectiveness of different dosages of vitamin E on the maturation of freshwater lobster (Cherax quadricarinatus)

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of different doses of vitamin E on the maturation of freshwater crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). The method used was a Randomized Block Design (RAK) with 4 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments in this study were P1 (control), P2 (vitamin E 150 mg/kg feed), P3 (vitamin E 300 mg/kg feed), and P4 (vitamin E 450 mg/kg feed). Parameters observed in this study were Gonad Maturity Index (GIC), fecundity, and egg diameter.The results of Duncan's analysis showed that the increasing vitamin E to feed was significantly different (P&lt;0.05) with treatment without increasing vitamin E to LAT maturation such as gonadal maturity index, fecundity, and egg diameter. However, administering different doses of vitamin E (150 mg/kg of feed, 300 mg/kg of feed, and 450 mg/kg of feed) had no significant effect on LAT maturation. The treatment without the increasing vitamin E did not show maturity, which was indicated by the value of all parameters 0, while the treatment with the increasing vitamin E to the feed resulted in a range of IKG values, fecundity, and egg diameter respectively was 8.28 - 9.84%, 230.66 - 30.66 eggs and 0.46 – 0.48 mm. The best treatment in this study was treatment with a dose of vitamin E 450 mg/kg feed because it had the highest reproductive performance and could accelerate gonadal maturity in LAT.Keywords: Egg Diameter; Fecundity; Freshwater Lobster; Maturation; Vitamin E

Effectiveness of different dosages of vitamin E on the maturation of freshwater lobster (Cherax quadricarinatus)

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of different doses of vitamin E on the maturation of freshwater crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). The method used was a Randomized Block Design (RAK) with 4 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments in this study were P1 (control), P2 (vitamin E 150 mg/kg feed), P3 (vitamin E 300 mg/kg feed), and P4 (vitamin E 450 mg/kg feed). Parameters observed in this study were Gonad Maturity Index (GIC), fecundity, and egg diameter. The results of Duncan's analysis showed that the increasing vitamin E to feed was significantly different (P&lt;0.05) with treatment without increasing vitamin E to LAT maturation such as gonadal maturity index, fecundity, and egg diameter. However, administering different doses of vitamin E (150 mg/kg of feed, 300 mg/kg of feed, and 450 mg/kg of feed) had no significant effect on LAT maturation. The treatment without the increasing vitamin E did not show maturity, which was indicated by the value of all parameters 0, while the treatment with the increasing vitamin E to the feed resulted in a range of IKG values, fecundity, and egg diameter respectively was 8.28 - 9.84%, 230.66 - 30.66 eggs and 0.46 – 0.48 mm. The best treatment in this study was treatment with a dose of vitamin E 450 mg/kg feed because it had the highest reproductive performance and could accelerate gonadal maturity in LAT.Keywords: Egg Diameter; Fecundity; Freshwater Lobster; Maturation; Vitamin E

Genetic diversity of porcine PRLR gene and its relationship to litter size in Large White pigs

Improving the litter performance of sows is one of the main challenges in the current pig industry. In this study, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the PRLR gene were performed, in order to test whether they are associated with the reproductive performance of Large White pigs. In total, we discovered nine SNP loci (g. C260G, g. C362T, g. C527G, g. A540G, g. A584G, g. A673T, g. A745G, g. C765T and g. A934G) in exon 10 of PRLR. The result showed that genotypes CC and CT at the g. C362T locus and genotype AG at g. A584G could significantly increase the litter size of different strains of Large White pigs (p &lt; 0.05). In addition, the genotype CC at the g. C765T locus and the genotype AA at g. A934G could also increase the litter size (TNB could be increased by 1.5 piglets per year; while NBA could be increased by 0.98 piglets per year, p &lt; 0.01). Furthermore, the haplotype combinations of H2H7 and H4H4 were the dominant combinations and contributed to larger litter sizes in the Large White pigs. In conclusion, there were dominant genotypes in the related SNP loci in the PRLR gene that were beneficial to improving the litter traits of sows. These findings will provide a reference for screening the molecular markers of a high reproductive performance in sows, and are helpful for genetic breeding and the reproductive improvement of pigs. Key words: sow, prolactin, polymorphism, reproduction, association analysis.

One Health challenges for pig reproduction.

The current state of the world challenges pig reproduction as an important part of One Health, which involves interrelationships between animal, human and environmental health. The One Health concept underlines a comparative aspect in reproductive physiology and disease occurrence, bridging knowledge from one species to another. Seasonal changes in the environment affect pig reproduction and climate change may further strengthen those effects. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and specifically phthalates and heavy metals, interfere with endocrine function, and thereby sexual behavior, fertilization capacity and steroidogenesis. Reproductive infections and extended semen storage are important indications for antimicrobial use. Innovative solutions are needed to explore alternatives to antimicrobials. Efforts to ensure reproductive efficiency have prolonged farrowing as litter size has doubled over the past three decades, compromising immune transfer and welfare. Physiological, metabolic and programming related events around parturition are key areas for future One Health research in pig reproduction. In conclusion, climate change challenges reproductive management and breeding. More resilient pigs that can tolerate harsh environment but maintain high reproductive performance are needed. EDCs continue to grow as an environmental challenge for reproductive management and alternatives to antibiotics will be required.

Some reproductive and gynecological characteristics of Morkaraman ewes

The aim of this study is to determine some reproductive and gynecological and lamb yield characteristics in Morkaraman ewes in Iğdır province, Turkey. Reproductive and fertility characteristics of Morkaraman ewes were recorded in two breeding seasons. Clinically healthy 300 Morkaraman ewes were used. Estrus duration was statistically different in the first and second breeding seasons (P=0.034). The estrus rates were 95% and 97% in seasons, respectively (P=0.211). According to the breeding seasons (first and second year), lambing rate was 90.7% and 92%, infertility rate was 5% and 3%, placental retention rate was 2.6% and 1.5%, uterine infection rate was 8.2% and 6.6%, vaginal and uterine prolapse rate was 1.8% and 2.2%, follicular cyst rate was 1.3% and 0.7%, mastitis rate was 3.7% and 2.2%, insufficient milk production rate was 2.6% and 3.6%, abortion rate was 3.2% and 4.5%, dystocia rate was 4.4% and 5.4%, congenital anomaly rate was 1.1% and 1.5%, twinning rate was 10.7% and 12%, birth weight in singleton was 3.8 kg and 3.6 kg, birth weight in twins 3.2 kg and 3.3 kg, survival rate was 94.4% and 96.5%, respectively (P&amp;gt;0.05). In conclusion, Morkaraman ewes show high reproductive performance, do not have many gynecological problems, and are more likely to have single births.

Which traits optimize plant benefits? Meta‐analysis on the effect of partner traits on the outcome of an ant–plant protective mutualism

Abstract Theoretical models on mutualism dynamics predict that partner traits may influence the outcome of mutualistic interactions. However, most empirical data on this issue is restricted to case studies, limiting our ability to reach a more widespread comprehension of the role of partner traits on the dynamic of mutualisms. We investigated how the outcome of protective mutualisms between ants and plants bearing extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) is influenced by the traits of EFNs and ants feeding on EFNs. We used a meta‐analytical approach based on 35 studies investigating the effect of ant attendance on the herbivores and reproductive performance of EFN‐bearing plants. We evaluated how variation in the EFN vascularization and location on plants and the ant aggressiveness can modulate the effect of ant attendance on the plants. Both plant and ant traits investigated here drove the outcome of the protective mutualism for EFN‐bearing plants. Plants exclusively bearing EFNs near reproductive organs benefited more from ant attendance than plants bearing EFNs on vegetative or vegetative and reproductive organs. Ants had a higher positive impact on the reproductive performance of plants bearing non‐vascularized EFNs than plants bearing vascularized EFNs, although their effects on herbivores had been similar in both plant types. Regarding the ant behaviour, plants often attended by more aggressive ant species had a higher reproductive performance than plants often attended by less aggressive ones. Synthesis. Our results highlight that the selective pressures and evolutionary routes in ant‐plant protective mutualisms may depend on the pool of traits exhibited by partner species. Although some studies have already reported some impact of species traits on the outcome of ant‐plant mutualisms, this is the first time that a generalization about the role of species traits on the net balance of ant attendance was proposed. Due to this generalization, it was possible to advance our knowledge about the evolution of facultative mutualisms by showing that the role of species traits on the mutualistic outcome can vary in intricate ways due to a particular trait combination found among partners in communities where the interactions are embedded in.

Sexual coercion in a natural mandrill population

Increasing evidence indicates that sexual coercion is widespread. While some coercive strategies are conspicuous, such as forced copulation or sexual harassment, less is known about the ecology and evolution of intimidation, where repeated male aggression promotes future rather than immediate mating success with targeted females. Although known in humans, intimidation was recently reported in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), where males are regularly violent against females. Here, we investigate the nature of male coercive strategies in wild mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx), a primate living in large polygynandrous groups where severe male aggression towards females is rare and females can form coalitions against males. Yet, we found support for all three predictions of the sexual coercion hypothesis, namely that male aggression (1) specifically targets sexually receptive females, (2) inflicts costs to these females, and (3) increases male mating success in the long-term. These results hold true when considering only non-physical threats, or only severe aggression. Finally, we show that high-ranking females are most targeted by males, probably because of their higher reproductive performances, while high-ranking males are most coercive. These results indicate that sexual intimidation is widespread in sexually dimorphic and group-living mammals, and that males and females vary in their propensities to use, and to be exposed to sexual coercion, respectively.

Effects of spawning group sex ratio and stocking density on the outcome of captive reproduction in golden cuttlefish Sepia esculenta

The supplemental release of hatchery-reared animals is important for maintaining or enhancing fishery resources. The golden cuttlefish, Sepia esculenta, is a commercially important cephalopod utilized in stock enhancement activities throughout East Asia. The long-term success of such activities requires proper breeding regimes to ensure the efficient use of resources and the preservation of genetic diversity in the offspring. For captive-bred cephalopods, information concerning the effects of different mating regimes on the paternity of offspring is scarce. However, it could be of particular importance for polyandric species such as golden cuttlefish. As previous studies have suggested that both the number and mating order of males are related to female fecundity, we investigated the effects of stocking density and sex ratio on female fecundity and determined the paternity of the offspring in golden cuttlefish. We used two experimental approaches. First, four different female (F): male (M) sex ratios (1F:1M, 1F:2.5 M, 1F:3M, 1F:6M) were set up to investigate the effects of operational sex ratio on mating behavior, female fecundity, and hatchling paternity. Next, we investigated female fecundity and hatchling paternity patterns under low and high stocking densities (5 or 10 individuals ∙ m−3), following a standard sex ratio setting that is widely employed in cuttlefish hatcheries (1F:2M). With an increasing proportion of males, the average fecundity of females and the participation rate of males in paternity decreased. With increasing stocking density, the females had lower average daily egg production, and the males had a high variance in reproductive success and decreased participation rate in spawning. The estimated effective number of breeders (Ne) was 19.29 (Ne/N ratio = 0.54) at high-density and 10.17 (Ne/N ratio = 0.57) at low density. To achieve high reproductive performance and assure genetic diversity of golden cuttlefish offspring, our study suggests that equal (1F:1M) or slightly male-biased (1F:2.5 M) sex ratios and a low stocking density may be useful when breeding golden cuttlefish in captivity.