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do Nascimento Barreto A, Jacintho MAC, Barioni Junior W, Pereira AMF, Nanni Costa L, Zandonadi Brandão F, Romanello N, Novais Azevedo G, Rossetto Garcia A. Adaptive integumentary features of beef cattle raised on afforested or non-shaded tropical pastures. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16951. [PMID: 39043710 PMCID: PMC11266545 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66675-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
We aimed to analyze the seasonal acclimatization process of Nelore and Canchim cattle raised on two production systems (non-shaded, NS, and integrated crop-livestock-forest, ICLF), based on the dynamics of the morphological and functional attributes of the hair coat and skin during winter and summer. The study was conducted in Brazil, in a low-altitude tropical climate region. A completely randomized 2 × 2 factorial design was adopted as follows: two production systems (NS and ICLF), two breeds (Nelore and Canchim) in a longitudinal structure, with measurements repeated over time through two stations (winter and summer). The experimental animals consisted of 32 Nelore (Bos indicus) and 32 Canchim (5/8 Bos taurus × 3/8 Bos indicus) bulls. The animals were equally distributed between two intensive rotational grazing systems. In both breeds, the hair coat was significantly thicker in winter but longer in summer, which increased epidermal protection. The Nelore bulls had shorter, wider, and thicker hairs, which are attributes that promote heat loss via conduction. The Canchim bulls showed significantly lower hair density and higher epithelium distance to sweat glands, which resulted in higher core temperature and respiratory rate. In turn, Nelore bulls had higher serum concentrations of triiodothyronine and lower serum concentrations of cortisol. However, Canchim bulls more frequently and intensely activated their thermoregulatory system and markedly adjusted their hair coat and hair features to reduce heat gain, especially in summer. Therefore, the anatomical plasticity and functional integumentary characteristics of Nelore and Canchim bulls reflect their acclimatization to tropical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa do Nascimento Barreto
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Av. dos Universitários, s/n, Castanhal, PA, 68746-360, Brazil
| | - Manuel Antonio Chagas Jacintho
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod. Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos, SP, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Waldomiro Barioni Junior
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod. Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos, SP, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Alfredo Manuel Franco Pereira
- Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Institute for Advanced Studies and Research, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Apartado 94, 7006-554, Évora, Portugal
| | - Leonardo Nanni Costa
- Department of Agri-Food Science and Technology, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin, 46, 40127, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Narian Romanello
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 255, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Novais Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod. Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos, SP, 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Rossetto Garcia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Av. dos Universitários, s/n, Castanhal, PA, 68746-360, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod. Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos, SP, 13560-970, Brazil.
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 255, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil.
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Molina JCJ, da Silva RS, Bidegain FA, Souza YB, Purdy PH, Blackburn HD, Azevedo HC. Bioclimatic thermal stress indices and their relationships with andrological characteristics in hair rams. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2024; 68:253-261. [PMID: 38036706 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-023-02587-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated relationships among reproductive parameters and the bioclimatic indices: temperature and humidity index (THI), equivalent temperature index (ETI), black globe temperature and humidity index (BGTHI), and thermal comfort index (TCI), during the first 45 days of spermatogenesis (SP-45) and during the 15 days of sperm transit through the epididymis (STP-15) that preceded the reproductive assessments (ReA). Such information is useful in determining the optimal breeding season in Northeast Brazil. Santa Inês rams (n = 25) underwent two ReA in three periods of the year (D-P = dry; R-P = rainy and RD-P = rainy/dry transition), and the bioclimatic indices were calculated at the corresponding SP-45 and STP-15 timepoints prior to each ReA. Sperm kinetic parameters in D-P were depressed compared to R-P and RD-P (P < 0.05). The index values had an antagonistic relationship with most parameters and regression analysis demonstrated that the BGTHI and the TCI had a negative association with the progressive motility, curvilinear, straight line, and average path velocities, and a positive association with slow sperm in the ejaculate in SP-45 and STP-15 phases (P < 0.01). Semen quality kinetics is affected throughout the year by the environment and it is apparent that it is impaired in D-P and better in R-P and RD-P seasons. The BGTHI and TCI measured in the sperm production phase classified the environment most coherently and presented better association with the behavior of sperm kinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Constantino Jerí Molina
- Federal University of Sergipe - Universidade Federal de Sergipe - UFS Postgraduate Program in Agriculture and Biodiversity - Programa de Pós-graduação em Agricultura e Biodiversidade - PPGAGRI, São Cristóvão, Brazil.
| | - Rebeca Santos da Silva
- Federal University of Sergipe - Universidade Federal de Sergipe - UFS -Postgraduate Program in Animal Science - Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia - PROZOOTEC, São Cristóvão, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Almeida Bidegain
- Federal University of Sergipe - Universidade Federal de Sergipe - UFS -Postgraduate Program in Animal Science - Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia - PROZOOTEC, São Cristóvão, Brazil
| | - Yânca Bizerra Souza
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA - Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros - Embrapa Coastal Tablelands, Avenida Beira Mar, 3250 Jardins, Aracaju, SE, 49025-040, Brazil
| | - Phillip H Purdy
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agriculture Research Service (ARS), National Animal Germplasm Program, 1111 S. Mason St., Fort Collins, CO, 80521-4500, USA
| | - Harvey D Blackburn
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agriculture Research Service (ARS), National Animal Germplasm Program, 1111 S. Mason St., Fort Collins, CO, 80521-4500, USA
| | - Hymerson Costa Azevedo
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária - EMBRAPA - Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros - Embrapa Coastal Tablelands, Avenida Beira Mar, 3250 Jardins, Aracaju, SE, 49025-040, Brazil
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Ben Moula A, Moussafir Z, Hamidallah N, El Amiri B. Heat stress and ram semen production and preservation: Exploring impacts and effective strategies. J Therm Biol 2024; 119:103794. [PMID: 38330855 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2024.103794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
As global warming persists, heat stress (HS) continues to affect animals, particularly those raised in extensive systems such as sheep. As a result, there is a growing body of research investigating the physiological and biological consequences of HS on these animals. Recent studies have specifically examined the effects of climate change, global warming, and HS on gametes. Heat stress has been shown to affect ram semen production, resulting in decreased sperm quality and volume in both fresh and stored samples. This is attributed to the effect of heat on hormone production in the testicles, which is critical for successful spermatogenesis. Such effects can have significant consequences on the fertility of female sheep, which could affect the farmers' revenue. Therefore, farmers and researchers are utilizing various strategies and laboratory techniques to mitigate these negative effects. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the impact of HS on ram semen production and conservation and analyze the different mitigation strategies at various levels, including management and nutritional interventions. The findings of this review will serve as a critical foundation for the development of targeted interventions and sustainable practices in sheep farming, ensuring resilient and profitable operations in the face of ongoing global climate challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anass Ben Moula
- Department of Life Sciences, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Larache, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 745 BP, 92004, Larache, Morocco.
| | - Zineb Moussafir
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Naima Hamidallah
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Hassan 1 University, BP 577, 26000, Settat, Morocco
| | - Bouchra El Amiri
- INRA-Regional Center for Agronomic Research of Settat, BP589, Settat, Morocco; African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), 70000, Laayoune, Morocco
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Barragán AL, Avendaño-Reyes L, Mellado-Bosque M, Meza-Herrera CA, Vicente-Pérez R, Castañeda VJ, Díaz-Molina R, Macías-Cruz U. Seasonal heat stress compromises testicular thermoregulation and semen quality of Dorper rams raised in a desert climate. J Therm Biol 2023; 118:103737. [PMID: 37944301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2023.103737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Dorper rams are widely distributed throughout the world under different climatic conditions, however, little is known about their reproductive performance in desert regions. Ten Dorper rams were individually housed and exposed to thermoneutrality for 35 d in spring (23.6 ± 5.6 °C, mean ± SD) and outdoor heat stress (HS) for 35 d in summer (33.6 ± 2.0 °C) to evaluate the effect of seasonal HS on physiological responses, testicular biometry, and seminal quality under desert climatic conditions. Rectal temperature, respiration rate and coat surface temperatures in different body regions were measured every 7 d (0600, 1200, and 1800 h); also, testicular biometry was registered at 0600 h. Semen was collected via an artificial vagina 3 d after physiological variables were measured and seminal traits were evaluated. Rectal temperature, respiration rate and coat surface temperatures were higher (P < 0.01) at each hour of measurement in summer compared to spring. Overall, scrotal length and circumference, as well as testicular volume were higher (P < 0.01) in summer than in spring. Compared to spring conditions, summer HS caused lower (P ≤ 0.05) sperm concentration and viability combined with a higher percentage of sperm abnormalities without affecting ejaculate volume. Both mass and sperm motility were similar between seasons in the first two sampling weeks, and then decreased (P ≤ 0.03) due to summer HS. In conclusion, Dorper rams developed testicle hyperthermia and, consequently, showed poor semen quality due to the high environmental temperatures prevailing in desert regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra L Barragán
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Mexicali, Baja California, 21705, Mexico
| | - Leonel Avendaño-Reyes
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Mexicali, Baja California, 21705, Mexico
| | - Miguel Mellado-Bosque
- Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, Departamento de Nutrición Animal, Saltillo, Coahuila, 25315, Mexico
| | - César A Meza-Herrera
- Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Unidad Regional Universitaria de Zonas Áridas, Bermejillo, Durango, 35230, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Vicente-Pérez
- Universidad de Guadalajara-CUCSUR, Departamento de Producción Agrícola, Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco, 48900, Mexico
| | - Vielka J Castañeda
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Mexicali, Baja California, 21705, Mexico
| | - Raúl Díaz-Molina
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Facultad de Medicina, Mexicali, Baja California, 21100, Mexico
| | - Ulises Macías-Cruz
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Instituto de Ciencias Agrícolas, Mexicali, Baja California, 21705, Mexico.
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de Sousa MAP, Esteves SN, Daher LCC, Gallo SB, Pereira VSDA, da Fonseca JF, Silva AGME, Brandão FZ, Oliveira MEF, Barreto ADN, Vergani GB, Garcia AR. Overnutrition of Ewe in Late Gestation and the Impact on Placental Efficiency and Lamb's Performance. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010103. [PMID: 36611712 PMCID: PMC9817877 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate energy or energy/protein supplementation in the ewe diet, in the last third of gestation, on maternal placental and endocrine characteristics, as well as its effects on the behavior of neonatal lambs and productive performance until weaning. A total of 128 ewes were used, and the experimental diet was fed from 100 days gestation until lambing, with the birth of 172 lambs. The ewes were distributed into three treatments: CTL (control, n = 43) with metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) intake according to NRC (1985); ME (energy supplementation, n = 44) plus 21% ME; and MECP (energy/protein supplementation, n = 41) plus 26% ME and CP. Body weight, body condition score, serum hormone concentrations, placental characteristics, lamb performance and behavior, and production efficiency of the ewe from lambing to weaning were measured. ME and MECP ewes were heavier before (p = 0.006) and just after lambing (p = 0.002) and had higher serum triiodothyronine (p = 0.001) and cortisol (p = 0.004) concentrations on the day of lambing. ME ewes had higher placental efficiency (p = 0.036) and lower total cotyledon weight (p = 0.011). ME and MECP diets increased both lamb birth weight (p = 0.015) and weaning weight (p = 0.009). Production efficiency at birth and at weaning was not influenced (p > 0.05) by treatments. Lamb behavior was influenced by the ME and MECP diets, reducing the time to kneel (p ≤ 0.05), to try to stand (p ≤ 0.05), and the latency to stand (p ≤ 0.005). It is concluded that overnutrition in the last third of gestation was positive for the ovine production system, with improved production rates, hormonal profile, placental characteristics, and neonatal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Antonio Paula de Sousa
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Av. dos Universitários, s/n, Castanhal 68746-360, PA, Brazil
| | - Sergio Novita Esteves
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos 13560-970, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciara Celi Chaves Daher
- Institute of Animal Health and Production, Federal Rural University of Amazon, Av. Presidente Tancredo Neves, 2501, Belém 66077-830, PA, Brazil
| | - Sarita Bonagurio Gallo
- Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Jeferson Ferreira da Fonseca
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa Goats and Sheep, Estrada Sobral/Groaíras, km 4, Sobral 62010-970, CE, Brazil
| | - André Guimarães Maciel e Silva
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Av. dos Universitários, s/n, Castanhal 68746-360, PA, Brazil
| | - Felipe Zandonadi Brandão
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Fluminense Federal University, Rua Vital Brazil, 64, Niterói 24230-340, RJ, Brazil
| | - Maria Emilia Franco Oliveira
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa Goats and Sheep, Estrada Sobral/Groaíras, km 4, Sobral 62010-970, CE, Brazil
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Andréa do Nascimento Barreto
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Av. dos Universitários, s/n, Castanhal 68746-360, PA, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Brun Vergani
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Rossetto Garcia
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa Southeast Livestock, Rod Washington Luiz, km 234, São Carlos 13560-970, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Karthik D, Suresh J, Reddy YR, Sharma G, Ramana J, Gangaraju G, Reddy PPR, Reddy YPK, Yasaswini D, Adegbeye M, Reddy PRK. Adaptive profiles of Nellore sheep with reference to farming system and season: physiological, hemato-biochemical, hormonal, oxidative-enzymatic and reproductive standpoint. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07117. [PMID: 34136691 PMCID: PMC8176311 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper outlines the effect of farming systems with reference to season on the body condition score (BCS) and adaptive profile (physiological, hemato-biochemical, hormonal, enzymatic and reproductive parameters) of Nellore sheep. In trial 1, sixty ewe-lambs were allotted to extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive rearing systems (n = 20) and evaluated for BCS at puberty, mating, 2 weeks pre-lambing and 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-lambing. In trial 2, eighteen rams were distributed evenly to three farming systems (n = 6) and evaluated for physiological, hemato-biochemical, hormonal, enzymatic, and reproductive parameters concerning three seasons. Although the scores did not differ among the groups, the Kruskal-Wallis ranks of BCS revealed a higher energy status of intensive ewes at different physiological conditions. The sheep reared under extensive and semi-intensive systems displayed higher temperature, pulse rate and respiratory rate with predominant effects in summer season. Similarly, both systems exhibited higher WBC and lower haemoglobin, PCV, and RBC contents without affecting MVC, MCH, MCHC, and differential leucocyte count. The percent haemoglobin and RBC count were higher in winter compared to summer months, whereas WBC count followed an exactly opposite pattern. The sheep reared in intensive system showed higher glucose, total protein, albumin, cholesterol, T3, T4, calcium, and phosphorus; however, the globulin, creatinine, uric acid, aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase, and catalase levels were elevated in extensive and semi-intensive systems. The dartos muscle extension (DME) and scrotum sweating rate (SSR) were higher for the sheep reared under extensive system, especially during summer season; while the seminal parameters viz., total sperm count, progressive sperm motility, and plasma membrane integrity were lower for extensive and semi-intensive sheep. No interactions were noticed for any of the parameters, except for cortisol, DME, and SSR, which showed significant interactions for rearing system vs. season. Our results showed dynamic adaptive mechanisms of the Nellore sheep in relation to different stressors like grazing for long distances, inadequate nutrition, and heat stress, revealing the heat resilient ability in harsh environmental conditions. Further, the analyzed vector plot showed that the AST, GPx, Cortisol, SOD, Catalase, WBC, PR, T4, total abnormalities, and major abnormalities were the major contributors for adapting during combined stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Karthik
- Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - J. Suresh
- Center for Continuing Veterinary Education & Communication, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - Y. Ravindra Reddy
- Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - G.R.K. Sharma
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - J.V. Ramana
- Controller of Examination, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - G. Gangaraju
- Livestock Research Station, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Palamaner, India
| | - P. Pandu Ranga Reddy
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Proddatur, India
| | - Y. Pradeep Kumar Reddy
- Center for Continuing Veterinary Education & Communication, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - D. Yasaswini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Tirupati, India
| | - M.J. Adegbeye
- Department of Animal Science and Livestock Production, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, P.M.B 5006, Ilesha, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - P. Ravi Kanth Reddy
- Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, Animal Husbandry Department, Veterinary Dispensary, Taticherla, Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Heat stress effects on sheep: Are hair sheep more heat resistant? Theriogenology 2020; 155:157-167. [PMID: 32679441 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Climatic variables can trigger physiological, biochemical, haematological and hormonal alterations that influence the maintenance of homeothermy and can affect production and productivity in sheep. Different mechanisms are responsible for tolerance to heat stress (HS) including coat and skin colour, body size, fat distribution, physiological reactions and not just coat type (hair/wool). This review looks at physical, physiological, molecular and genetic aspects of heat tolerance in sheep and how they affect hair and wool sheep. We propose that it is the adaptation to hot environments and not the type of coat (wool/hair) itself that determines the capacity of the resistance of the animal to HS, due to modifications in essential pathways such as energy metabolism, physiological responses and body size. When studied in similar environments, commercial wool breeds tend to show higher heat stress, but hair breeds tend not to differ from wool breeds that are adapted to hot environments.
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Henrique FL, Bezerra HVA, Polato HZ, Fernandes AC, Zanella AJ, Alves MBR, Celeghini ECC, Batissaco L, Strefezzi RDF, Pulido-Rodríguez LF, Hooper HB, Titto CG. Maternal stress in sheep during late pregnancy influences sperm quality in early puberty of the offspring. Theriogenology 2019; 145:158-166. [PMID: 31711696 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Stress at the end of sheep gestation can damage the reproductive development of young males. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of LPS administration in the last third of sheep pregnancy on the reproductive parameters of prepubertal rams. Thirty-six pregnant nulliparous ewes (12 ± 2 months old; 45 ± 6 kg) were assigned to two treatments, LPS (E. coli; 0.8 μg kg-1) and control (placebo/saline) administered in late pregnancy (120 days post-conception). The animals gave birth to 17 male lambs (11 LPS; 8 control). Reproductive development of the young rams was analyzed from 5 to 12 months of age. A completely randomized design in double factorial scheme was used. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance. The model included treatment (LPS; control), age as main effects and their interactions, and the animal as a repeated measure. Means were compared by the PDIFF-SAS (Pr > |t|) at P < 0.05. An effect of age was observed for scrotal circumference, testicular consistency, homogeneity of testicular parenchyma, vascularization, semen quantity and quality, and blood testosterone concentration (P < 0.05). LPS increased sperm defects (P < 0.05) but an interaction with age was not observed (P > 0.05) with higher abnormalities only during months 8 and 9 (P < 0.05) and not thereafter. In summary, LPS did not cause long-term damage to testicular morphology analyzed from the onset of puberty to sexual maturity. However, LPS treatment affected sperm morphology during early puberty of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Luís Henrique
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Helena Viel Alves Bezerra
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Heloise Zavatieri Polato
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Arícia Christofaro Fernandes
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Adroaldo José Zanella
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Eneiva Carla Carvalho Celeghini
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Batissaco
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Francisco Strefezzi
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Lina Fernanda Pulido-Rodríguez
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Henrique Barbosa Hooper
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Gonçalves Titto
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Campus Fernando Costa, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil.
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9
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Moura ABB, Brandão FZ, Esteves SN, Nunes de Souza G, Fonseca JFD, Pantoja MHA, Romanello N, Botta D, Giro A, Garcia AR. Differences in the thermal sensitivity and seminal quality of distinct ovine genotypes raised in tropical conditions. Theriogenology 2019; 123:123-131. [PMID: 30292856 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
For different ovine breeds to maximize their reproductive capacity in countries with tropical climate, it is important to evaluate their potential for thermal resilience and consequences on their reproductive traits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of thermal environment temperatures of climate seasons in a tropical climate region on the surface temperatures of the scrotum, testicular biometric characteristics, seminal quality and serum testosterone concentration of rams of different genotypes. Breeders of four different genotypes (Dorper, n = 8, Texel, n = 8, Santa Inês, n = 9 and Morada Nova, n = 8) were used throughout the four climate seasons. Higher thermal challenge was recorded in the spring and summer. In the summer increase in scrotal surface temperature was detected by infrared thermography (P < 0.05), mainly in the regions of the distal testicular pole and tail of the epididymis. The animals of the Texel genotype had higher rectal temperature in the summer. In spring, this genotype also had the highest testicular pole (32.2 ± 0.5 °C; P < 0.05) and distal (29.9 ± 0.4 °C; P < 0.05) temperatures and a higher mean testicular temperature (31.7 ± 0.4 °C; P < 0.05). The Morada Nova genotype showed a higher surface temperature gradient between testicular poles (2.96 ± 0.1 °C; P < 0.05), especially in spring. Genotype-dependent thermal sensitivity was detected for the thermal gradient between the testicular poles, reflecting the seminal quality. There was a positive correlation of the thermal gradient between testicular poles with sperm membrane integrity and negative correlation with total sperm defects. The Texel genotype showed less progressive motility and higher percentage of sperm defects. There was no difference in testosterone concentration between genotypes and in the different seasons (P > 0.05). Thus, the indigenous genotypes showed a greater capability to maintain the scrotum-testicular thermoregulation. Dorper animals resembled the indigenous sheep genotypes, in terms of seminal characteristics, unlike Texel animals, which showed lower adaptability and lower seminal quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sérgio Novita Esteves
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Southeast Livestock (CPPSE/Embrapa), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Narian Romanello
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo (FMVZ/USP), Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniela Botta
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Giro
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Rossetto Garcia
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Southeast Livestock (CPPSE/Embrapa), São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
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10
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Sánchez-Dávila F, Ungerfeld R, Bosque-González ASD, Bernal-Barragán H. Seasonality in Saint Croix male lamb reproductive development in northern Mexico. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:391-400. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rodolfo Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad de la República; Montevideo Uruguay
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