Libido Test Research Articles

Sexual behavior and seminal characteristics of Brahman bulls in the Colombian tropical flooded savanna: effects of reproductive management systems and climatic periods.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the seminal traits and sexual behaviors of mature Brahman bulls in a multi-sire system during mating or resting seasons and different climatic periods of the year at the Colombian flooded savannas. Thirty-two Brahman bulls, suitable for reproduction, were used, which were subjected to breeding soundness evaluation, as well as the libido and service capacity tests. Such evaluations were compared among different seasons of the year in relation to the rainfall. Libido and service capacity tests were carried out in paddock for 12 continuous hours. Scrotal circumference and all seminal traits were not influenced by the mating or rest seasons, neither by the different climatic periods. However, libido and service capacity were significantly affected by the climatic periods, decreasing their expression during the intense rainfall season, and increasing during the transition period from summer to the onset of rains, which could be considered the appropriate time to establish mating seasons in this region. Furthermore, a high positive correlation was observed between libido and service capacity confirmed by a logistic model that animals with low libido have low probability of having high service capacity. In conclusion, although Brahman bulls are physiologically adapted to tropical regions, their expression of sexual behavior is markedly influenced by the weather. Hence, the use of libido test may serve as a good predictor of the service capacity, and a useful tool to improve the selection of sires.

Effect of Dietary Energy Levels on The Performances of Testicular Development, Live Body Weight and Testosterone Concentration in Ouled Djellal Ram Lambs

The aim of our study was to determine the effect of the dietary energy levels on the live body weight, testis volume and blood testosterone concentration in Ouled Djellal ram lambs throughout growth. The study lasted six months from post-weaning until the pubertal period at the Technical Institute Farms (I.T.E.L.V) Lamtar of Sidi-bel-Abbes (Western Algeria). After weaning, Twenty single-born Ouled Djellal ram lambs from 90 to 240 days old were weighed and allotted into two equal groups of Low energy (n = 10) or High energy (n = 10) nutrition plane. Each group received; in addition to a basal diet (good quality pasture) 200 g and 400 g of concentrate feed mixture containing barley (60%), corn (5%), wheat bran (37.5 %) and vitamin-mineral compound (2.5 %) by head-1day-1 respectively. Hay and water were provided ad libitum. Monthly measurements of live body weight, testicular volume and blood testosterone concentration of lambs were recorded. The results showed that the High energy group of lambs recorded a significantly higher live body weight compared to the lambs of low energy group (p <0.001). Whereas, the testicular growth indicated a gradual and linear increase for both groups (low energy and high energy) with significant differences (p <0.001). However, all measurements of the testis, live body weight, serum testosterone levels and age were positively correlated with one another of both low and high groups throughout the experiment. In conclusion, High-level energy supplementation can improve to enhanced development in Ouled Djellal ram lambs this may be due to its beneficial effect on the productive and reproductive performance of growing male lambs. Furthermore, using younger lambs may reduce production costs, accelerate the benefits of genetic selection, and allow earlier progeny and libido testing.

141 Reproductive characteristics of post-pubertal lambs after being rendered short scrotum

Abstract A follow-up study was conducted to validate observations from an earlier trial on reproductive function in ram lambs following short scrotum castration. Again, East Friesian x Lacaune male dairy lambs from a commercial sheep dairy born in February and March were either left intact (IN, n=25), rendered short-scrotum (SS; n=18), or completely banded (WE; n=25) within 10 d of birth. At a mean age of 65 d, lambs were moved to the study site and managed as one group on cool season forages and supplemented with grain at 2–3% BW. At a mean age of 172 d, lambs were tested for libido in a 5 min pen test, and semen was collected from 7 IN and 7 SS lambs. Four estrus-induced teaser ewes were used for libido testing and semen collection by artificial vagina. Lambs were harvested the day after testing/collection, and reproductive tracts were recovered from 5 IN and 5 SS lambs at random. Differences between male lamb types were analyzed using PROC GLM. No statistical differences (P &amp;gt;0.05) in reproductive behaviors were observed between IN and SS, though number of services and kicks were numerically higher in IN than SS (1.3 vs. 0.45; 1.6 vs. 0.73). No reproductive behaviors was observed in WE. Ejaculate volume was not different between IN and SS (0.56 vs. 0.49 ml), but percent motile sperm (45 vs. 6 %; P&amp;lt; 0.01) and sperm concentration (1.52 vs. 0.05 billion/ml; P&amp;lt; 0.05) were higher in IN then SS lambs. Total testis and epididymis weight were also higher (P&amp;lt; 0.01) in IN than SS lambs (291 vs. 109 g; 53.8 g vs. 17.7 g). Additionally, epididymal sperm reserves were higher (P&amp;lt; 0.05) in IN than SS (9.42 vs. 0.89 billion) lambs. Results confirm our earlier findings that reproductive function was greatly reduced, but did not cease in short scrotum ram lambs.

Avaliação de rufiões bubalinos submetidos à técnica cirúrgica de fixação da curvatura caudal da flexura sigmóide com miectomia do músculo retrator do pênis

The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency technique of fixation of the caudal curvature of the sigmoid flexure with myectomy of the penis retractor muscle and the performance of teaser bulls after surgery, through the detection of females in estrus, without performing the copulation. 12 teaser buffaloes were used without defined breed, with an average age of 20 months, weighing on average 200 kg. The animals were subjected to food and water fasting for 12 hours to provide tranquilization in advance. The surgical procedure consisted of the exteriorization of the sigmoid flexure, myectomy of penis retractor muscle and fixation of the caudal curvature of the penis sigmoid flexure. Of the 12 evaluated teaser buffaloes in the libido test, 100% performed the flehmen reflex, mount attempt, incomplete and complete jump with total inability of the penis exposure. It was concluded that this technique can be used safely, having simplicity in its execution, effective results and mainly low cost, not interfering in the animals’ libido. The animals when tested as teaser buffaloes kept the libido during the experimental period with total inability of exposure of the penis.

Comportamento sexual de touros jovens Guzerá em teste da libido em curral e piquete

Twenty four Guzerat bulls from 24 to 34 months olds, andrologically evaluated as normal were submitted to a libido test, to study sexual behaviour in pen and pasture conditions. It was observed, in a general way, low reply of the animals to the tests, once that half of them were classified with average or high libido. Lower variation in the punctuation between the observation times was verified, in the pen test with score 3.0 in five minutes and 3.3 in 15 minutes of evaluation (p>0.05). It was recorded, in a general way, favorable associations and of high magnitude among the events, suggesting that bulls that showed more events in the libido test are those with higher change to carry through matings.

Exame do sistema genital dos animais

O exame completo e exato do sistema genital é de fundamental importância para o diagnóstico e tratamento das afecções reprodutivas. Além disso, o exame ginecológico tem por finalidade detectar a fase do ciclo estral, a gestação e causas da infertilidade da fêmea. O exame andrológico é realizado para atestar o potencial reprodutivo do macho, além de diagnosticar as causas da impotência coeundi e generandi. O exame ginecológico se inicia com a anamnese, seguida pelo exame clínico geral, exame específico externo ( avaliação da vulva e vestíbulo) e exame interno (palpação retal de cérvix, útero e ovários em grandes animais e vaginoscopia) . Os exames complementares são de grande auxílio para o diagnóstico, e consistem em ultrasonografia de útero e ovários, citologia vaginal em pequenos animais, exame histológico, microbiológico, testes sorológicos e dosagens hormonais. A anamnese e o exame clínico geral também são as primeiras etapas do exame andrológico, seguido de exame específico do sistema reprodutor externo (inspeção e palpação de escroto, testículos, epidídimo, funículo espermático e medição da circunferência escrotal) e interno ( palpação retal das glândulas anexas), teste de libido, espermograma e por fim exames complementares como ultrassonografia de glândulas anexas e testículos, sorologia, PCR, testes hormonais, exame microbiológico do sêmen além de testes funcionais dos espermatozóides.

194 Libido and semen quality in intact and altered (short scrotum and castrated) post-pubertal male dairy sheep lambs

Abstract Short-scrotum (induced cryptorchid) rams can retain growth and performance characteristics of intact-rams while making them sterile and facilitating co-grazing with ewe-lambs. East Friesian x Lacaune male lambs left intact (n = 19; IN), rendered short-scrotum (n = 17; SS) or neutered (n = 25; WE) by 10 d of age, were used to evaluate libido and semen quality at 7-mo old. Lambs were managed as one group on a forage-based diet supplemented with a grain mixture (barley and soybean meal at 0.7 kg/d). Four CIDR-treated estrus-induced ewes were placed two/pen in adjacent 2.5x2.5 m pens for libido testing. Males were introduced individually to ewe pens for 5 min and reproductive behaviors recorded (anogenital sniffs, foreleg kicks, flehmen, false mounts, and service). Semen was collected from 6 random IN and SS lambs via artificial vaginas using estrus-induced ewes as teasers. Volume was recorded, and ejaculate extended in milk/egg yolk, packaged into straws, and stored at 5°C for analysis with a CASA system the following day. Behavior measurements were compared between types using PROC GLM. Ejaculate characteristics are presented as mean±SD due to insufficient sperm concentrations of SS ejaculates. Anogential sniffs, foreleg kicks, and mounts were similar in IN and SS, and higher (P &lt; 0.05) than in WE (7.44 and 6.34 vs. 4.76; 1.72 and 1.60 vs. 0.17; 1.78 and 2.05 vs. 0.22; respectively). Number of services were higher (P &lt; 0.001) in IN than SS (1.11 vs. 0.53), but time to service (112 sec) was not different. Ejaculate volume was similar in IN and SS (0.51 mL), but SS ejaculates were essentially devoid of sperm. Ejaculates from IN lambs had 0.69x109±0.48 x109 sperm, with 68.9±12.5% progressive motility, 81.8±6.1% viability and 87.1±6.1% morphologic normality. Ram lambs rendered short-scrotum by 10 d of age had reproductive behavior similar to intact post-pubertal rams, but ejaculate characteristics showed them to be sterile

Influence of Unilateral Cryptorchidism on Libido, Haematology and Serum Reproductive Hormones, Total Protein, Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress in West African Dwarf Goats

The failure of testicular descent (cryptorchidism) is known to cause abnormal testicular development and function. Unilateral cryptorchidism is prevalent in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats particularly in some areas where affected bucks are presumed to have better libido and reproductive efficiency by farmers. Androgens produced by the testes can influence libido and other hormonal and metabolic processes in the body. The study investigated the influence of natural unilateral cryptorchidism on serum reproductive hormones, total protein, lipid profile, oxidative stress, and haematology and libido in WAD bucks. Ten WAD bucks (aged 12 - 14 months) comprising 5 bucks with normal descended testes (N group) and 5 unilaterally-cryptorchid bucks (UC group) were studied. Blood and sera were collected and evaluated for haematology, serum total proteins and lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoproteins) concentrations, serum oxidative stress (catalase and lipid peroxidation activity), and serum levels of reproductive hormones (testosterone, FSH and LH). Libido testing of bucks was also performed by randomly isolating and confining each individual male with a doe on standing heat and recording the number of mountings made by the male within a period of 5 minutes as the libido score. The evaluated haematological indices and serum levels of proteins, lipids, oxidative stress indicators and reproductive hormones were not significantly different between the N and UC groups (p > 0.05). Although a higher mean libido score was recorded in N bucks compared to the UC group, this difference was not significant. Whereas no negative effects were observed in the evaluated physiologic indices in UC bucks, these findings do not support the presumption by farmers that UC bucks have better libido than bucks with fully descended testes. Therefore, these animals should not be selected for breeding to avoid increasing the prevalence of unilateral cryptorchidism due to its genetic attribute.

Body and testicular traits, libido testing and semen analysis of young males from the Blanco Orejinegro (Bos taurus) herd of University of Antioquia, throughout puberty onset

Summary Fifteen young males (mixed ages) from the BON herd of University of Antioquia were selected and followed weekly from August to December 1998 (Comprising a range from 9,9 to 28,1 months, from 19 time points of data collection) in order to measure and evaluate: 1) Body and Testicular traits (n=322); 2) Libido testing (LibT, n=19); 3) Response to rectal palpation of seminal vesicles reflex (SVR, n=244); and 4) Analysis of semen collected by artificial vagina (n=42). Data of physical traits were categorized monthly from 10 to 27 months (n=17 groups); and data of semen were categorized into three groups (16,1 to 21; 21,1 to 24; and 24,1 to 27 months). Simple regression analysis was performed between each trait (dependent variable) and age (independent variable). Multivariate analysis of variance was used to establish differences between groups and monthly reference values for each trait. Physical traits proportionally increased (p &lt; 0,01) with age: Body Weight (R2=0,796) and Scrotal Circumference (R2=0,672), had the highest correlation coefficients, whereas Body Length (R2=0,454), Withers height (R2=0,506), Testis Diameter (R2=0,415), and Testis Length (R2=0,458), had a mild correlation. Higher scores for LibT (more than 5 mating attempts/5 minutes) were always observed. Individual responses to SVR (secretion of pre-seminal fluid, protrusion of penis and complete erection) proportionally increased with age (R2=0,539; p &lt; 0,01). The youngest age at semen collection was 16,1 months (1,63 x 108 sperm/cc, with &gt; 60% gross and individual progressive motility); however, no correlation was found with age, neither for volume (3,6 ml), nor for pH (6,86) or semen concentration. These results suggest the onset of puberty occurs between 13 and 14 months for this BON herd and confirm previous observations on the high libido of BON males. Reference values are reported for both testicular and body traits. Breeding Soundness Examination rather than merely semen concentration must be considered in order to define the onset of puberty in bovine cattle. Key words: bovine, criollo cattle, puberty, semen, tropical environment, young bulls. Resumen Quince toretes (de diferentes edades) del hato BON de la Universidad de Antioquia fueron evaluados cada semana, desde agosto hasta diciembre de 1998 (incluyendo un rango de edad de 9,9 a 28,1 meses, en 19 fechas de medición), para evaluar: 1) Medidas corporales y testiculares; 2) Prueba de la líbido (LibT); 3) Reflejo a la palpación de las vesículas seminales (SVR, n=244) por masaje rectal; y 4) Análisis de muestras de semen (n=42) obtenidas mediante vagina artificial. Los datos de medidas corporales y testiculares fueron categorizados en grupos de un mes (desde 10 hasta 27 meses; n=17 grupos); y para el análisis del semen se categorizaron en tres grupos (16,1 a 21, 21,1 a 24, y 24,1 a 27 meses). Pruebas de regresión simple se hicieron incluyendo cada parámetro como variable dependiente y la edad como variable independiente. La prueba de ANOVA Multifactorial se utilizó para definir diferencias y valores de referencia para cada parámetro. Las medidas corporales y testiculares aumentaron proporcionalmente con la edad (p &lt; 0,01): el peso corporal (R2=0,796) y la circunferencia escrotal (R2=0,672) mostraron la más alta correlación con la edad, mientras que mostraron una mediana correlación la longitud corporal (R2=0,454), la alzada (R2=0,506), el diámetro del testículo (R2=0,415), y la longitud del testículo (R2=0,458). En la LibT, la mayoría de los toretes mostraron más de cinco intentos de monta/5 minutos. La intensidad de la respuesta individual al masaje rectal (secreción de líquido preseminal, protrusión del pene y erección completa), aumentó proporcionalmente con la edad (R2=0,539; p &lt; 0,01). El primer eyaculado se recolectó a la edad de 16,1 meses (1,63 x 108 espermatozoides/cc, con mas de 60% de movilidad progresiva en masa e individual); sin embargo, no se halló correlación entre el volumen (3,6 ml), el pH (6,86), o la concentración del semen, con la edad. Los resultados sugieren un inicio de la pubertad entre 13 y 14 meses de edad para el grupo de toretes de este hato. Ademas, se informan los valores de referencia para cada medida corporal y testicular, en el rango de edad evaluado. Palabras clave: bovinos, ganado criollo, pubertad, semen, toretes, trópico.

Andrologic evaluation by points and libido test in corral of young bulls Braford

O objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar a avaliação andrológica por pontos e determinar a eficiência do teste da libido em curral, de touros jovens da raça Braford, criados no norte do estado do Paraná. Trinta e seis touros, com média de 21 meses de idade, foram submetidos ao exame andrológico, à classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP) e o teste da libido em curral por 15 minutos. Os touros foram classificados de forma individual, no final de cada cinco minutos de observação e, depois, de forma acumulativa, considerando todos os eventos fisiológicos observados. Com relação à CAP, os touros foram avaliados como muito bons. O escore da libido variou em função do tempo de observação (P &lt;0,05), porém, durante os três períodos de observação, os touros se mantiveram classificados como bons. Quando a classificação foi atribuída aos touros de forma acumulativa, foi verificado aumento do escore da libido, sendo classificados ao final do período como muito bons. Durante o período de teste, as classes de comportamentos de pré cópula e identificação foram as que apresentaram maior frequência, seguida das classes de outros comportamentos e comportamento de cópula. Quando comparado à frequência das classes de comportamentos entre os três períodos de observação, foi verificado diferença (P &lt;0,05) das classes de comportamentos nos primeiros cinco minutos, em relação ao restante do período de observação.

Study on buck's mating behaviour, libido score and semen biology in local goat of Rohilkhand region, India

The experiment was conducted to record normative sexual behaviour, libido test along with physico- morphological characteristics of semen in bucks of local goats maintained at sheep and goat unit, Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar Bareilly. Available bucks were categorized in to Group I: Experienced (2yrs), Group II: Non experienced Adolescence (1 year), Group III: Pubertal (6 -12 months). Six males from each group utilized for the normative sexual behaviour. Each male was observed 3 times for recording sexual behaviour for 30 min. Semen collection using artificial vagina was done using bucks from group II. Mean time spent in licking and vocalization was higher in Gr2, followed by Gr1 and Gr3. Irrespective of group sniffing and licking were predominant courtship activities observed. False mounting was higher in Gr3, followed by Gr2 and Gr1. Mounting and number of ejaculation was higher in Gr1 followed by Gr2 and Gr3. The time spent in standing without any mating activities was highest in Gr3 followed by Gr2 and Gr1. Introductory ejaculatory latency (IEL) for Gr1, Gr2 and Gr3 was 0.72±0.38, 1.75±0.94 and 6.91±1.73 min. respectively. The lowest IEL was in Gr1 followed by Gr2 and Gr3. The same trend was observed for 1st, 2nd and 3rd post ejaculation interval (PEI). Mean values was lowest in Gr2 followed Gr1 and Gr3 for 4th PEI except Gr3 for 2nd PEI. 5th onwards there was no particular trend followed which might be due to less number of males which exhibited the mating (Gr2). However, the number of bucks which showed the mating was higher in Gr1. Initial mount latency (IML) for Gr1, Gr2 and Gr3 was 0.20 ±0.02, 0.31±0.04 and 0.68±0.27 min., respectively. However, there was no particular trend observed in Gr2 and Gr3.The probable reason for no trend in Gr2 and Gr3 was due to inexperienced bucks. Further, the numbers of bucks showed 4th mating onwards were less. Therefore, Gr1 showed the increment in the refractory period in a consistent manner except 6th and 7th refractory period. Libido score was almost similar in Gr1 and Gr2 but it was higher than Gr3, which differed significantly (P

Effect of combination of vitamin E and selenium injections on reproductive performance and blood parameters of Ossimi rams

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the combination of vitamin E (Vit E) and selenium (Se) injection on semen quality, testes measures and some blood parameters of Ossimi rams. Fourteen mature healthy Ossimi rams were randomly divided into two equal groups (7 rams in each). The first group served as control (CG), while 2nd group served as treatment group (TG). Rams of the TG were treated twice weekly with 5mg sodium selenite and 450mg Vit E for 1 month. Semen quantity (semen volume, and concentration of the semen ejaculated) and quality (mass motility and percentage of live and dead cells) were recorded twice weekly. Blood samples collection, testes measurements (testis length (TL), breadth (TB); and scrotal circumference (SC)) using measuring tape and caliper were recorded. Sonar examination of the testes (mediastinum testes and tunica albugenia) and all accessory gland measurements were performed every 2 weeks. Semen quality and quantity were significantly affected by treatments: the ejaculate volume, mass activity and sperm concentration increased (p<0.01) in treated rams in comparison with control ones. The percentages of dead and abnormal spermatozoa were reduced in the treated groups. Also ordinary testes measurements and sonar examination were mostly improved though the differences were not statistically significant. Pen libido test showed reduced reaction time for the first mount in treated rams. Serum testosterone, glutathione peroxidase and other blood parameters were elevated (p<0.05) in treated group in comparison with the control one. The results of this experiment confirm that injections of the combination of Vit E and Se during the breeding season improved semen characteristics and the overall reproductive performance of Ossimi rams.

Study of correlation between reaction time and refractory period (as indices of libido) with semen characteristics in ArkharMerino×Moghani and Baluchi×Moghani rams

This study was conducted on 10 crossbred rams consisted of 5 ArkharMerino×Moghani (AM×MG) and 5 Baluchi×Moghani (BL×MG), to analyze correlation between semen characteristics and libido activity. The semen samples were evaluated for semen volume, total sperm per ejaculate (TSE), spermatozoa concentration (SC), color, wave motion, spermatozoa progressive motility, percentage of live and abnormal spermatozoa, pH, rate of metabolic activity of spermatozoa and semen index. The libido of rams was measured by two indices including reaction time (RT) and refractory period (RP). While RT only had a negative and significant correlation with semen volume (r=−0.15, P=0.04), but RP had a significant correlation with seminal traits except for TSE. Moreover, libido test scores between two genetic groups did not have a significant difference (P<0.05). Considering the observed significant correlation between RP and semen characteristics, we suggest that a reliable monitoring with the aim of detecting rams of poor semen quality and libido seems worth making an effort for the future of the herd. In summary, the reported correlation between libido and seminal traits will confirm the importance of simultaneous selection for both libido and semen quality in the herd. Finally, the importance of performing an individual evaluation of semen and libido for each male and for using a ram in breeding programs is highlighted, due to the existence of differences among rams as well as a low correlation between semen characteristics and libido indices.

Relationship between production characteristics and breeding potential of 25-month old extensively managed Bonsmara bulls

The aim of the study was to determine if the breeding potential of 25-month old Bonsmara beef bulls could be predicted from production characteristics. Forty-one Bonsmara bulls were included in an on-farm performance test (also known as the Phase D growth test) for a period of 180 days. At an average age of 24.7 months the bulls were subjected to a libido test and overall breeding soundness evaluation (OBE). The bulls were categorised into independent breeding potential categories according to the scores they obtained for the measured reproductive traits. The categories included sperm morphology and motility. One-way ANOVA revealed that none of the production traits measured had a significant effect on the different breeding potential categories. A positive correlation (r = 0.33) was recorded between pre-weaning growth rate and percentage morphologically normal sperm, while a negative correlation (r = -0.36) was recorded between total acrosomal- and flagellar sperm defects and pre-weaning growth. A positive correlation was demonstrated between sperm motility and pre-weaning growth (r = 0.36), and a consequent negative correlation (r = -0.38) between the percentage aberrant sperm movement and pre-weaning growth. The correlation between the percentage morphologically normal sperm and percentage progressively moving sperm was r = 0.50, while the correlation between percentage morphologically normal sperm and aberrant and immotile sperm was r = 0.48 for both variables. The number of total defects correlated highly significantly with flagellar and acrosomal defects (r = 0.72 and r = 0.93, respectively) and correlated poorly with the total number of nuclear defects (r = 0.32). These results suggest that total sperm defects were mainly due to acrosomal and flagellar defects, rather than nuclear defects and as the percentage morphologically normal sperm decreased, the motility also decreased. High growth rates before weaning may have a positive effect, while high growth rates after weaning may have a negative effect on the breeding potential of a bull. None of the measured reproductive and production traits had a significant effect on libido score and thus, cannot be used to predict the libido of young extensively maintained bulls.

TESTE DA LIBIDO EM TOUROS JOVENS GUZERÁ E SUAS ASSOCIAÇÕES COM CARACTERÍSTICAS REPRODUTIVAS E NÍVEIS SÉRICOS DE TESTOSTERONA

Um total de 12 touros da raça Guzerá, de 24 a 34 meses de idade, avaliados andrologicamente, foram submetidos a teste da libido com o objetivo de estudar o comportamento sexual em curral, por cinco, 10 e 15 minutos de observação; e associar com características andrológicas (aspectos físicos: motilidade, vigor, turbilhonamento e concentração espermáticos, e volume do sêmen; e morfológicos: defeitos espermáticos maiores, menores e totais, do sêmen), circunferência escrotal (CE), classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP), peso corporal, idade e concentrações séricas de testosterona. Observou-se, de forma geral, baixa resposta dos animais aos testes, uma vez que menos da metade dos animais foi classificada com libido média ou alta. Verificou-se pequena variação na pontuação entre os tempos de observação, com escore 3,0 em cinco minutos e 3,3 em 15 minutos de avaliação (p&gt;0,05). A associação entre a libido e as concentrações séricas de testosterona (0,78), reforçam o achado de influência desta característica na expressão do interesse sexual em touros jovens Guzerá.

Avaliação andrológica por pontos e comportamento sexual em touros da raça Nelore

Objetivou-se estudar a relação entre dois métodos de avaliação do potencial reprodutivo - Classificação Andrológica por Pontos (CAP) e comportamento sexual de touros da raça Nelore - e verificar a acurácia desses testes em predizer o potencial reprodutivo dos touros, avaliado pela taxa de gestação ao final da estação de monta, com duração média de 90 dias. Foram utilizados 14 touros, todos classificados como aptos à reprodução, após exame andrológico, CAP e observação do comportamento sexual a campo durante 12 horas. Onze touros foram avaliados em manejo individual, com proporção média touro:vaca de 1:46, e os três restantes, em manejo múltiplo, com proporção média touro:vaca de 1:23. A pontuação média obtida pela CAP foi 78,92 ± 8,92 (muito bom) e o escore, 9,85 ± 0,36 (excelente) para libido. Quanto maior o tempo de teste, maiores foram os escores da libido. Na primeira hora de observação, os touros foram classificados como de libido questionável e ao final do teste, como de libido excelente. As correlações da libido com circunferência escrotal (CE), características físicas e morfológicas do sêmen e taxa de gestação foram baixas. A pontuação pela CAP correlacionou-se positivamente com circunferência escrotal e características físicas do sêmen, mas não se correlacionou com características morfológicas dos sêmen. Não foi observada correlação entre CAP e taxa de gestação, nem entre libido e CAP. A taxa geral de gestação após o período de estação de monta foi de 74,69%. Os resultados indicam que tanto a CAP como o teste da libido não são eficientes para predizer o potencial reprodutivo de touros da raça Nelore e devem ser utilizados de forma complementar ao exame andrológico.

Does Vitamin E or Vitamin E plus Selenium improve reproductive performance of rams during hot weather?

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of Vitamin E (Vit E) and Selenium (Se) on semen quality, sexual activity, packed cell volume (PCV), and white blood cell counts (WBC) of Awassi rams during the hot season.Twelve Awassi rams were subdivided into three groups and treated for 90 days. Rams in the 1st group (T1) were treated twice weekly with 175 mg/ram vitamin E at intervals of 12h; rams in the 2nd group (T2) were treated on the same schedule with 70 mg/ram vitamin E plus 2800 mg selenium; and rams in 3rd group (T3) served as controls. Sperm quality (percentage of motile cells and percentage of morphologically normal cells) and quantity (sperm volume, and concentration) were recorded weekly. Sexual activity was tested by using the pen libido test at monthly intervals. Blood samples were taken before treatment and after the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months. Semen quality was significantly affected by treatments: the ejaculate volume increased in T2 vs T1, and T3; mass activity and individual motility were increased in T1 and T2 vs T3. Sperm concentration was increased in T2 and T1 vs T3, and the percentage of dead and abnormal spermatozoa was reduced in T1 and T2 vs T3, though the differences were not statistically significant. Pen libido test showed reduced reaction time for the first mount in the 1st month in T2 and T1 vs T3. The number of serves was increased in groups T1 and T2 vs T3. There were no significant differences in PCV among groups. After 3 months from the beginning of treatments, the percentage of lymphocytes increased in T1 and T2 vs. T3, while the percentage of neutrophils was reduced in T2 vs T3 in the 2nd and 3rd months.The results of this experiment indicate that treatments with vitamin E alone or in combination with selenium improved semen characteristics and reproductive performance of Awassi rams during the hot season.

EFEK EKSTRAK AKAR GINSENG JAWA DAN KOREA TERHADAP LIBIDO MENCIT JANTAN PADA PRAKONDISI TESTOSTERON RENDAH

This research was designed to compare the potency and duration effect of Java ginseng and Korean ginseng root extract administration on sexual behavior of male mice. It was done experimentally on male mice (strain BALB, aged 8–10 weeks, weighed 25–35 g). Thirty eight mice were grouped to 4 (four) groups: First group was treated with solvent (as positive control), 2nd group was treated ethynilestradiol (EE2) (as negative control), 3rd group was treated with Java ginseng root extract, and 4th group was treated with Korean ginseng root extract. All groups were administered with EE2 0.56 mg/20 g bw/day for 9 days as pretreatment to decrease the testosteron level. After pretreatment, each group divided to 3 subgroups (each would receive treatment for 9, 18, and 27 days). Ethynilestradiol 0.56 mg/20 g bw/day was administered along treatment to keep testosterone level low, except to positive control group. Java ginseng and Korean ginseng root extract (equal with 1.4 mg ginseng root powder/ 20 g bw/day) and EE2 were administered orally. The level of testosterone after pretreatment was measured by RIA (radioimmuoassay) and changes in libido were determined by libido test. After the last treatment, 1 male mouse kept singly in individual cage. Libido test was carried out for 20 minutes. All of these activities during test recorded by handycam. The mice were observed for time from the introduction of female into the cage of male upto the first mount (mounting latency/ ML) and for the number of mounts (mounting frequency/MF). The results indicated that at low testosterone level, Java ginseng root extract administration at the dose equal with 1.4 mg ginseng root powder/20 g bw/day shortened mounting latency and increased mounting frequency but Korean ginseng extract root at the same dose gave negative effects. Duration of administration of both Java and Korean ginseng root extract didn’t give effect on libido.

EFEK EKSTRAK AKAR GINSENG JAWA DAN KOREA TERHADAP LIBIDO MENCIT JANTAN PADA PRAKONDISI TESTOSTERON RENDAH

This research was designed to compare the potency and duration effect of Java ginseng and Korean ginseng root extract administration on sexual behavior of male mice. It was done experimentally on male mice (strain BALB, aged 8–10 weeks, weighed 25–35 g). Thirty eight mice were grouped to 4 (four) groups: First group was treated with solvent (as positive control), 2nd group was treated ethynilestradiol (EE2) (as negative control), 3rdgroup was treated with Java ginseng root extract, and 4th group was treated with Korean ginseng root extract. All groups were administered with EE2 0.56 mg/20 g bw/day for 9 days as pretreatment to decrease the testosteron level. After pretreatment, each group divided to 3 subgroups (each would receive treatment for 9, 18, and 27 days). Ethynilestradiol 0.56 mg/20 g bw/day was administered along treatment to keep testosterone level low, except to positive control group. Java ginseng and Korean ginseng root extract (equal with 1.4 mg ginseng root powder/ 20 g bw/day) and EE2 were administered orally. The level of testosterone after pretreatment was measured by RIA (radioimmuoassay) and changes in libido were determined by libido test. After the last treatment, 1 male mouse kept singly in individual cage. Libido test was carried out for 20 minutes. All of these activities during test recorded by handycam. The mice were observed for time from the introduction of female into the cage of male upto the first mount (mounting latency/ ML) and for the number of mounts (mounting frequency/MF). The results indicated that at low testosterone level, Java ginseng root extract administration at the dose equal with 1.4 mg ginseng root powder/20 g bw/day shortened mounting latency and increased mounting frequency but Korean ginseng extract root at the same dose gave negative effects. Duration of administration of both Java and Korean ginseng root extract didn’t give effect on libido.

Avaliação do comportamento sexual em touros Nelore: comparação entre os testes da libido em curral e do comportamento sexual a campo

Objetivou-se determinar a eficiência do teste da libido realizado em curral em comparação ao teste realizado a campo e relacioná-los à taxa de gestação em estação de monta de 120 dias. Treze touros aptos à reprodução foram submetidos ao teste da libido em curral por 3 horas. Desses touros, nove foram submetidos à avaliação a campo na proporção touro:vaca de 1:33. A cada 21 dias, foi diagnosticada a gestação por meio de avaliações ultra-sonográficas. No teste em curral, observou-se que, quanto maior o tempo, maiores foram os escores de classificação e que nenhum touro efetuou serviço completo nos 10 minutos iniciais do teste. Com um touro classificado como muito bom obteve-se 84,80% de prenhez, porém touros questionáveis proporcionaram taxas de prenhez de 86,67 e 96,55% ao final da estação. As correlações entre características físicas e morfológicas do sêmen mantiveram-se próximas de zero ou foram nulas. Os principais sinais fisiológicos do comportamento sexual foram o ato de cheirar ou lamber o corpo da fêmea, cheirar ou lamber a vulva, seguidos ou não por reflexo de Flehmen. Em animais da raça Nelore, o tempo de 30 minutos de observação mostrou-se mais eficiente para a realização do teste da libido em curral. O teste da libido realizado a campo no período diurno não foi eficaz em predizer a libido de todos os animais estudados, em decorrência, provavelmente, do comportamento sexual noturno de alguns reprodutores.