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Barden M, Hyde R, Green M, Bradley A, Can E, Clifton R, Lewis K, Manning A, O'Grady L. Development and evaluation of predictive models for pregnancy risk in UK dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)01092-0. [PMID: 39218059 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24623] [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: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
One suggested approach to improve the reproductive performance of dairy herds is through the targeted management of subgroups of biologically similar animals, such as those with similar probabilities of becoming pregnant, termed pregnancy risk. We aimed to use readily available farm data to develop predictive models of pregnancy risk in dairy cows. Data from a convenience sample of 108 dairy herds in the UK were collated and each herd was randomly allocated, at a ratio of 80:20, to either training or testing data sets. Following data cleaning, there were a total of 78 herds in the training data set and 20 herds in the testing data set. Data were further split by parity into nulliparous, primiparous, and multiparous subsets. An XGBoost model was trained to predict the insemination outcome in each parity subset, with predictors from farm records of breeding, calving and milk recording. Training data comprised 74,511 inseminations in 45,909 nulliparous animals, 86,420 inseminations in 39,439 primiparous animals, and 158,294 inseminations in 32,520 multiparous animals. The final models were evaluated by predicting with the testing data, comprising 31,740 inseminations in 19,647 nulliparous animals, 38,588 inseminations in 16,215 primiparous animals, and 65,049 inseminations in 12,439 multiparous animals. Model discrimination was assessed by calculating the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC); model calibration was assessed by plotting calibration curves and compared across test herds by calculating the expected calibration error (ECE) in each test herd. The models were unable to discriminate between insemination outcomes with high accuracy, with an AUC of 0.63, 0.59 and 0.62 in the nulliparous, primiparous and multiparous subsets, respectively. The models were generally well-calibrated, meaning the model-predicted pregnancy risks were similar to the observed pregnancy risks. The mean (SD) ECE in the test herds was 0.038 (0.023), 0.028 (0.012) and 0.020 (0.008) in the nulliparous, primiparous and multiparous subsets respectively. The predictive models reported here could theoretically be used to identify subgroups of animals with similar pregnancy risk to facilitate targeted reproductive management; or provide information about cows' relative pregnancy risk compared with the herd average, which may support on-farm decision-making. Further research is needed to evaluate the generalizability of these predictive models and understand the source of variation in ECE between herds; however, this study demonstrates that it is possible to accurately predict pregnancy risk in dairy cows using readily available farm data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Barden
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom.
| | - Robert Hyde
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Green
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Bradley
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Edna Can
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Clifton
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Katharine Lewis
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Al Manning
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
| | - Luke O'Grady
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Sutton Bonington, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom; Quality Milk Management Services, Cedar Barn, Easton Hill, Wells, BA5 1DU, United Kingdom
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Smid AMC, Burnett TA, Madureira AML, McLellan KJ, Wegner CS, von Keyserlingk MAG, Weary DM. Access to an outdoor open pack promotes estrus activity in dairy cows. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308182. [PMID: 39116066 PMCID: PMC11309487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Dairy cows have a partial preference to access an outdoor deep-bedded pack, but the effects of continuous access to an outdoor area on estrous behaviors has not been studied. Our objective was to investigate if access to an outdoor open deep-bedded pack improves the expression of estrus behaviors. We enrolled 60 lactating Holstein cows directly after calving and followed them each for 12 weeks. Cows were housed in a single freestall pen holding 36 cows at a time, with a dynamic group composition. Half of the cows were randomly assigned to the OUTDOOR treatment; these cows had access to an outdoor open pack via an automated selection gate. INDOOR cows were housed together with OUTDOOR cows but were not allowed outdoor access. All cows were fitted with an automated activity monitor (AAM) 21 ± 3 d before expected calving date. Estrous behaviors (i.e., standing to be mounted and mounting behaviors) were continuously monitored using video, and the intensity of mounting (i.e., the number of standing to be mounted and other mounting behaviors per hour) was calculated per estrus event per cow. Temperature and humidity were monitored by data loggers indoors, and these data were used to calculate the Temperature Humidity Index (THI). Following an alert from the AAM, cows were checked to detect the presence of a dominant preovulatory follicle and an absence of a mature corpus luteum (CL) by rectal ultrasonography following milking, as well as 7 d thereafter to confirm ovulation by the presence of a new CL. A total of 94 estrus events were used in the final analysis. INDOOR cows tended to have a lower mounting intensity with increasing indoor THI, but no such effect was noted for OUTDOOR cows. The total number of cows in estrus positively influenced mounting intensity. OUTDOOR cows had a longer duration of estrus, as measured by the automated monitors, compared with INDOOR cows (12.4 ± 0.7 h versus 9.9 ± 0.8 h). Estrus event number and the total number of cows in estrus were both positively associated with estrus duration. These results indicate that access to an outdoor pack tended to increase mounting behavior for freestall housed dairy cows, especially during periods of elevated THI. We conclude that providing dairy cows access to an outdoor area can help with estrus detection and may thus help improve the reproductive programs on dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marieke C. Smid
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Animal Welfare Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tracy A. Burnett
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of Guelph, Ridgetown, Ontario, Canada
| | - Augusto M. L. Madureira
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of Guelph, Ridgetown, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathryn J. McLellan
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Animal Welfare Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Claire S. Wegner
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Animal Welfare Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marina A. G. von Keyserlingk
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Animal Welfare Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel M. Weary
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Animal Welfare Program, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Reed CB, Kuhn-Sherlock B, Burke CR, Meier S. Estrous activity in nulliparous heifers with divergent genetic merit for fertility traits. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)01040-3. [PMID: 39067756 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-24995] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
This observational study determined the effect of genetic merit for fertility traits on estrous activity and duration and inter-estrous interval in nulliparous dairy heifers. We also compared estrous activity between estrous events with or without conception and determined the effect of genetic merit for fertility traits on age and body weight at time of first detected estrous activity event. Activity monitoring devices (Heatime, SCR Engineers) were fitted to 7-9-mo aged Holstein-Friesian heifers with positive or negative genetic merit for fertility traits (POS FertBV: average +5%, n = 275; NEG FertBV: average -5%, n = 249) and activity data was collected to the end of the first breeding period (15-17-mo). An estrous event was defined as when the activity change index exceeded 19.2 activity units (AU) for ≥6 consecutive h. In total, 2,434 estrous events were identified (POS FertBV: n = 1454; NEG FertBV: n = 980). Estrous event duration was defined as the period when the threshold was first exceeded and when activity dropped below threshold, without another event starting within 24 h of the end of the previous event. This definition included occurrences where activity crossed the threshold multiple times in a day; these were classified as a single estrous event. A second measure, high activity duration, was defined as the total time activity exceeded the threshold. To characterize estrous activity, baseline activity was determined from the previous 7 d of activity. Peak activity and total activity (area under the curve of activity above baseline) were calculated. A fifth variable, inter-estrous interval, was calculated as a proxy for estrous cycle length. Total activity and peak activity were greater in POS than NEG FertBV heifers (total activity: 548 vs 464 AU, SED = 19.6 AU; peak activity: 72 vs 65 AU, standard error of the difference (SED) = 1.5 AU). The POS FertBV group had a mean estrous event duration and high activity duration of 15.1 h and 15.0 h, compared with 14.1 and 14.1 h for the NEG FertBV group (SED = 0.30 and 0.29 h, respectively). Inter-estrous interval did not differ between POS and NEG FertBV heifers (19.5 vs 20.0 d, SED = 0.49). Estrous events associated with conception were shorter than those not associated with conception (mean ± standard error of the mean, high activity duration: 13.0 ± 0.25 h vs 13.9 ± 0.31 h, estrous event duration: 13.1 ± 0.25 h vs 14 ± 0.32 h) and had less total activity (408 ± 15.2 vs 487 ± 18.2 AU). The POS FertBV heifers were more likely to have their first estrous activity event than NEG FertBV heifers by a given age (HR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.0 to 1.6) or body weight (HR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.1 to 1.6). The outcomes of this study provide evidence that positive genetic merit for fertility traits is associated with more overt estrous expression. Therefore, estrous expression traits may have potential to be used as earlier-in-life predictors of genetic merit for fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Reed
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand.
| | | | - C R Burke
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - S Meier
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Kaewbang J, Lohanawakul J, Ketnuam N, Prapakornmano K, Khamta P, Raza A, Swangchan-Uthai T, Makararpong D, Inchaisri C. Smart sensors in Thai dairy reproduction: A case study. Vet World 2024; 17:1251-1258. [PMID: 39077443 PMCID: PMC11283598 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.1251-1258] [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: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Movement activity sensors are known for their potential to boost the reproductive performance of dairy cows. This study evaluated the effectiveness of these sensors on three Thai dairy farms (MK, NF, and CC), each using different sensor brands. We focused on reproductive performance at these farms and expanded our evaluation to include farmer satisfaction with sensor technology on five farms (MK, NF, CC, AP, and IP), allowing for a thorough analysis of both operational outcomes and user feedback. Materials and Methods A total of 298 lactation records and interviewing five experienced farm owners with over a year of sensor usage were our research methods. To measure the effect on the first service timing and post-parturition pregnancy rates, Cox regression models were utilized for sensor usage. Results Biosensors' implementation enhanced data precision while quickening the first service within 100 days and pregnancy within 200 days. The MK and NF farms showed significant progress. Within 100 and 200 days post-implementation, the overall improvement was 30%-34% in the first service rate and 39%-67% in the conception rate across all assessed farms. Farmers acknowledged improved reproductive performance from the sensors, overcoming language barriers. Conclusion The study highlighted the advantages of using movement activity sensors in enhancing both cattle reproductive success and farmers' satisfaction on Thai dairy farms. These sensors led to more accurate management decisions, increasing overall farm productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jirayus Kaewbang
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
- Chulalongkorn Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 73000 Nakhonpathom Province, Thailand
| | - Jidapa Lohanawakul
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Napat Ketnuam
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kachapas Prapakornmano
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pongsanan Khamta
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Aqeel Raza
- International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Theerawat Swangchan-Uthai
- CU-Animal Fertility Research Unit, Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Davids Makararpong
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
- Senovate AI Co., Ltd., 10240 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chaidate Inchaisri
- Research Unit of Data Innovation for Livestock, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
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Changtes T, Sanchez J, Arunvipas P, Patanasatienkul T, Thammahakin P, Jareonsawat J, Hall D, Heider L, Rukkwamsuk T. Performance and Cost-Efficiency of Single Hormonal Treatment Protocols in Tropical Anestrous Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1564. [PMID: 38891611 PMCID: PMC11171056 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the performance of hormone treatment protocols, determine the factors associated with pregnancy success after hormone treatment, and compare the cost-efficiencies of two types of hormone treatment among cyclic and noncyclic anestrous dairy cows. The clinical records of 279 anestrous cows that received hormone treatment for artificial insemination (AI) from 64 herds in the western region of Thailand were obtained from Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital from January to August 2017. The performance of the hormone treatment protocols, fixed-time AI (TAI) and estrus detection before AI (EAI), showed that the pregnancy risk for the TAI protocol was higher than that for the EAI protocol, but pregnancy per AI did not differ significantly between the two protocols in cyclic and noncyclic cows. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that cows receiving the TAI protocol were more likely to be pregnant compared to those treated with the EAI protocol. Cows with a 3.00 body condition score (BCS) < 3.75 after treatment and loose-housed cows were more likely to become pregnant. Treatment during winter showed higher pregnancy success than that in the summer and rainy seasons. The cost-efficiency analysis showed that the TAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for noncyclic cows, whereas the EAI protocol was the most cost-efficient option for cyclic cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thitiwich Changtes
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; (T.C.); (P.A.); (P.T.)
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (J.S.); (T.P.); (L.H.)
| | - Javier Sanchez
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (J.S.); (T.P.); (L.H.)
| | - Pipat Arunvipas
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; (T.C.); (P.A.); (P.T.)
| | - Thitiwan Patanasatienkul
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (J.S.); (T.P.); (L.H.)
| | - Passawat Thammahakin
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; (T.C.); (P.A.); (P.T.)
| | - Jiranij Jareonsawat
- Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Nong Pho, Ratchaburi 70120, Thailand;
| | - David Hall
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
| | - Luke Heider
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada; (J.S.); (T.P.); (L.H.)
| | - Theera Rukkwamsuk
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; (T.C.); (P.A.); (P.T.)
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Mičiaková M, Strapák P, Strapáková E. The Influence of Selected Factors on Changes in Locomotion Activity during Estrus in Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1421. [PMID: 38791639 PMCID: PMC11117332 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was the evaluation of the locomotion activity of heifers and Holstein dairy cows during estrus. We have analyzed the locomotion activity using the Heatime RuminAct device on 180 cows (32 heifers and 148 dairy cows) and we evaluated a total of 633 estrus cycles during the reference period of 3 days before estrus, 3 days after estrus, and on the day ofestrus occurrence. The datawere analyzed using the DataFlowTM II program. The locomotion of cows was expressed in the units of locomotion activity in 24 h (u.24 h-1). During the reference period of 3 days before estrus, the cows showed locomotion activity of 558 u.24 h-1, with an increase in locomotion activity on the day of estrus of 836 u.24 h-1, and, during the reference period of 3 days after estrus, the level of locomotion activity decreased to 537 836 u.24 h-1, which is a similar level of locomotion activity to the reference period before estrus. Through the statistical analysis, we evaluated the impact of parity, lactation stage, milk yield, and individuality on changes in locomotion activity during estrus and throughout the reference period, and we found a significant effect of parity (F = 13.41, p < 0.001) on changes in the locomotion activity of dairy cows during estrus. Based on these results, this research offers fresh perspectives on assessing specific factors affecting the locomotion activity of dairy cows during estrus through the practical application of electronic systems for estrus detection on dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária Mičiaková
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Peter Strapák
- Institute of Animal Husbandry, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Eva Strapáková
- Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
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Cushman RA, Kaps M, Snider AP, Crouse MS, Woodbury BL, Keel BN, McCarthy KL. Relationship of length of the estrous cycle to antral follicle number in crossbred beef heifers. Transl Anim Sci 2024; 8:txae074. [PMID: 38800103 PMCID: PMC11127629 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txae074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Length of the menstrual cycle was positively associated with antral follicle number in women. If this pattern is consistent in cattle, a value-added benefit to using automated activity monitors to determine estrous status could be the ability to predict antral follicle count (AFC). We, therefore, hypothesized that as inter-estrous interval increased ultrasonographic AFC would be greater in crossbred beef heifers. Over 3 yr, crossbred beef heifers (n = 1,394) were fitted with automated activity monitors for 81 d. From days 42 to 46, heifers were submitted for ultrasonographic examination to determine AFC. From days 60 to 81, heifers were visually observed twice daily for 45 min for signs of behavioral estrus. Heifers that had a behavioral estrus that coincided with a sensor-based estrus and had a previous sensor-based estrus between 15 and 26 d earlier were used for the analysis (n = 850). A combination of regression analyses and correlation analyses were applied to understand the association between data collected by sensors and follicle number determined by ultrasonographic examination. Antral follicle count was analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS with estrous cycle length (15 to 26 d) as a fixed effect. Estrus was more likely to initiate in the early morning hours and peak activity was greater (P < 0.0001) when estrus initiated between 0200 and 0800 hours then when estrus initiated at other times of the day. Antral follicle count did not differ due to length of the estrous cycle (P = 0.87). Thus, length of the estrous cycle obtained from three-axis accelerometers cannot be used to predict follicle number in crossbred beef heifers; however, machine learning approaches that combine multiple features could be used to integrate parameters of activity with other relevant environmental and management data to quantify AFC and improve reproductive management in beef cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Cushman
- USDA, ARS, US. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | - Martim Kaps
- USDA, ARS, US. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | | | - Matthew S Crouse
- USDA, ARS, US. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | - Bryan L Woodbury
- USDA, ARS, US. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | - Brittney N Keel
- USDA, ARS, US. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | - Kacie L McCarthy
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
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De Rensis F, Dall’Olio E, Gnemmi GM, Tummaruk P, Andrani M, Saleri R. Interval from Oestrus to Ovulation in Dairy Cows-A Key Factor for Insemination Time: A Review. Vet Sci 2024; 11:152. [PMID: 38668419 PMCID: PMC11054615 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11040152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This review describes the oestrus-to-ovulation interval, the possibility of predicting the time of ovulation, and the optimum time for insemination relative to oestrus in dairy cows. The duration of oestrus in dairy cows is approximately 8-20 h, with differences possibly related to the methods of oestrus detection and the frequency of observations. Most cows ovulate approximately 24-33 h after the onset of oestrus and 15-22 h after the end of oestrus. The interval from the preovulatory luteinising hormone (LH) surge to ovulation is approximately 4-30 h. Ovulation occurs when follicle diameter averages 18-20 mm. When it is possible to correctly determine the beginning of oestrus, artificial insemination can be performed utilizing the "a.m.-p.m. rule", and only one insemination may be applied. In cows with too long or too short oestrus-to-ovulation intervals, fertility can be compromised. One important factor that can alter the oestrus-to-ovulation interval is acute or chronic heat stress during the warm season. When there is a risk that insemination may occur too early or too late with respect to the time of ovulation, GnRH administration can be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio De Rensis
- Department of Veterinary—Medical Science, University of Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy; (F.D.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Eleonora Dall’Olio
- Department of Veterinary—Medical Science, University of Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy; (F.D.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Giovanni Maria Gnemmi
- Bovinevet Internacional SL. Bovine Reproduction Ultrasonography & Herd Management Huesca (ES), 22006 Huesca, Spain;
| | - Padet Tummaruk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Centre of Excellence in Swine Reproduction, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10310, Thailand;
| | - Melania Andrani
- Department of Veterinary—Medical Science, University of Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy; (F.D.R.); (R.S.)
| | - Roberta Saleri
- Department of Veterinary—Medical Science, University of Parma, Via del Taglio 10, 43126 Parma, Italy; (F.D.R.); (R.S.)
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Madureira AML, Plenio JL, Vasconcelos JLM, Guida TG, Cerri RLA, Borchardt S. Association between genomic daughter pregnancy rate and expected milk production on the resumption of estrus behavior in Holstein cattle. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:1592-1602. [PMID: 37944813 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23439] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this observational study was to evaluate estrous expression at the first estrus occurring between 7 to 30 d in milk (DIM), as detected by an automated activity monitor (AAM), and its association with genomic daughter pregnancy rate (GDPR) and genomic expected milk production (GEM) in lactating dairy cows. A total of 4,119 lactations from 2,602 Holstein cows were included. Cows were enrolled as first lactation (n = 1,168), second lactation (n = 1,525) and third and greater lactation (n = 1,426). Hair samples were collected from the tail switch, and cows were genotyped using an SNP platform (Clarifide, Zoetis, São Paulo, SP, Brazil). Postpartum cows were examined daily by the farm personnel from calving until 10 DIM. Calving was classified as assisted (forced calf extraction) and unassisted (normal calving). Retained fetal membranes (RFM), hyperketonemia (KET), and left displaced abomasum (LDA) were also recorded. Mean GDPR (± SD) was -0.29 ± 1.4, and the intensity and duration of the first estrus event was 15.9 ± 13.1 x-factor (intensity unit measurement) and 11.1 ± 3.8 h, respectively. Cows that had greater GDPR had greater intensity and longer duration of estrus at the alert, independent of parity. Overall resumption of estrous expression, between 7 to 30 DIM, was 41.2% (1,695/4,119), where 58.8% (2,424/4,119) did not have an estrus event, 31.0% (1,274/4,119) of cows had one event of estrus, and 10.2% (421/4,119) of cows had 2 or more events of estrus early postpartum. Mean DIM (± SD) at first estrus event, detected by the AAM, was 19.4 ± 4.4 d. Days in milk at first event for cows with one event was 20.7 ± 1.6 d and 15.9 ± 3.1 d for cows with 2 or more events of estrus. First lactation cows were more likely to have an estrus event early postpartum when compared with second and third and greater lactation cows (45.2 ± 1.4% [530/1168] vs. 41.6 ± 1.3% [636/1525] vs. 37.2 ± 1.3% [529/1426], respectively). There was an interaction of parity and GDPR on the proportion of cows demonstrating an early postpartum estrus. There was no difference in the proportion of cows with an early postpartum estrus between those with assisted or unassisted calving, RFM, or LDA. However, cows that had KET were less likely to have an alert early postpartum when compared with cows that did not have KET. Mean genomic expected milk production (± SD) was 256.8 ± 600.1 kg. There was no interaction between GEM and parity on estrous expression (i.e., intensity and duration). There was no interaction between GEM and GDPR on the proportion of estrus early postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M L Madureira
- University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, Ridgetown, ON, Canada N0P 2C0
| | - J L Plenio
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - T G Guida
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany.
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10
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Juengel JL, Reader KL, Maclean PH, Quirke LD, Zellhuber-McMillan S, Haack NA, Heiser A. The role of the oviduct environment in embryo survival. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23171. [PMID: 38402905 DOI: 10.1071/rd23171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Declining fertility is an issue in multiple mammalian species. As the site of fertilisation and early embryo development, the oviduct plays a critical role in embryo survival, yet there is a paucity of information on how the oviduct regulates this process. AIMS We hypothesised that differences in steroid hormone signalling and/or immune function would be observed in a model of poor embryo survival, the peripubertal ewe. METHODS We examined expression of steroid hormones in systemic circulation, oviductal expression of oestrogen receptorαand genes important in steroid hormone signalling, and immune function in pregnant and cyclic peripubertal and adult ewes on day 3 after oestrus. KEY RESULTS Concentrations of progesterone, but not oestradiol, were decreased in the peripubertal ewe compared to the adult ewe. Oestrogen receptorαprotein expression was increased in the peripubertal ewe, but pathway analysis of gene expression revealed downregulation of the oestrogen signalling pathway compared to the adult ewe. Differential expression of several genes involved in immune function between the peripubertal and adult ewe was consistent with an unfavourable oviductal environment in the peripubertal ewe lamb. Oestradiol concentration was positively correlated with the expression of multiple genes involved in the regulation of immune function. CONCLUSIONS Differences in the immune environment of the oviduct, potentially linked to differential modulation by steroid hormones, may partially underly the poor fertilisation and early embryo survival observed in the peripubertal ewe. IMPLICATIONS A unfavourable oviductal environment may play an important role in limiting reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Juengel
- Agricultural Systems and Reproduction, AgResearch Ltd, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel 9092, New Zealand
| | - Karen L Reader
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | - Paul H Maclean
- Bioinformatics and Statistics, AgResearch Ltd, Grasslands Research Centre, Private Bag 11008, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Laurel D Quirke
- Agricultural Systems and Reproduction, AgResearch Ltd, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel 9092, New Zealand
| | | | - Neville A Haack
- Animal Health Solutions, Hopkirk Research Institute, AgResearch Ltd, Private Bag 11008, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Axel Heiser
- Animal Health Solutions, Hopkirk Research Institute, AgResearch Ltd, Private Bag 11008, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
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11
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Hu S, Reverter A, Arablouei R, Bishop-Hurley G, McNally J, Alvarenga F, Ingham A. Analyzing Cattle Activity Patterns with Ear Tag Accelerometer Data. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:301. [PMID: 38254470 PMCID: PMC11154254 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we equip two breeds of cattle located in tropical and temperate climates with smart ear tags containing triaxial accelerometers to measure their activity levels across different time periods. We produce activity profiles when measured by each of four statistical features, the mean, median, standard deviation, and median absolute deviation of the Euclidean norm of either unfiltered or high-pass-filtered accelerometer readings over five-minute windows. We then aggregate the values from the 5 min windows into hourly or daily (24 h) totals to produce activity profiles for animals kept in each of the test environments. To gain a better understanding of the variation between the peak and nadir activity levels within a 24 h period, we divide each day into multiple equal-length intervals, which can range from 2 to 96 intervals. We then calculate a statistical measure, called daily differential activity (DDA), by computing the differences in feature values for each interval pair. Our findings demonstrate that patterns within the activity profile are more clearly visualised from readings that have been subject to high-pass filtering and that the median of the acceleration vector norm is the most reliable feature for characterising activity and calculating the DDA measure. The underlying causes for these differences remain elusive and is likely attributable to environmental factors, cattle breeds, or management practices. Activity profiles produced from the standard deviation (a feature routinely applied to the quantification of activity level) showed less uniformity between animals and larger variation in values overall. Assessing activity using ear tag accelerometers holds promise for monitoring animal health and welfare. However, optimal results may only be attainable when true diurnal patterns are detected and accounted for.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Hu
- Agriculture and Food, CSIRO, Saint Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia; (A.R.); (G.B.-H.); (J.M.); (A.I.)
| | - Antonio Reverter
- Agriculture and Food, CSIRO, Saint Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia; (A.R.); (G.B.-H.); (J.M.); (A.I.)
| | | | - Greg Bishop-Hurley
- Agriculture and Food, CSIRO, Saint Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia; (A.R.); (G.B.-H.); (J.M.); (A.I.)
| | - Jody McNally
- Agriculture and Food, CSIRO, Saint Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia; (A.R.); (G.B.-H.); (J.M.); (A.I.)
| | - Flavio Alvarenga
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia;
| | - Aaron Ingham
- Agriculture and Food, CSIRO, Saint Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia; (A.R.); (G.B.-H.); (J.M.); (A.I.)
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12
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Mills MD, Pollock AB, Batey IE, O’Neil MA, Schrick FN, Payton RR, Moorey SE, Fioravanti P, Hipsher W, Zoca SM, Edwards JL. Magnitude and persistence of higher estrus-associated temperatures in beef heifers and suckled cows. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae079. [PMID: 38502838 PMCID: PMC10998462 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae079] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Higher estrus-associated temperatures (HEAT) are a hallmark feature in sexually active females. The overarching aim of this study was to characterize the variability, magnitude, and persistence of HEAT in heifers and suckled beef cows as well as identify associated factors when occurring during thermoneutral conditions at the onset of the spring breeding season. In both heifers and cows, estrus was induced using a 7-d controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-PGF2α protocol. Vaginal temperature after prostaglandin F2α administration was recorded every 5 min using a Thermochron iButton affixed to a blank CIDR (containing no progesterone). Estrus was defined as when a heifer first stood to be mounted or when a cow had an Estrotect patch score of 3 or 4. Level of HEAT varied among individual animals. When comparing common HEAT variables using a mixed model with date nested within a year, maximum HEAT (39.9 ± 0.1 and 40.0 ± 0.1 °C) and duration (15.5 ± 0.8 and 15.4 ± 0.7) were similar in heifers and cows, respectively. However, the magnitude and persistence of HEAT differed. Total area under the HEAT curve was 117.1 ± 13.5 and 158.7 ± 12.3 for heifers vs cows, respectively (P = 0.0571). Further, 42.9% of heifers and 49% of cows had maximum HEAT ≥ 40 °C which persisted up to 6.5 and 10 h, respectively. When ambient conditions were predominantly thermoneutral, temperature humidity index had minimal impact on HEAT (mixed model, repeated measures over time). Toward identifying associated factors with different aspects of HEAT using best fit hierarchical linear regression models, baseline vaginal temperature and baseline duration were the most highly associated independent variables. Follicle size, estradiol and progesterone levels, and other available animal-related variables (e.g., age, weight, hair coat score) explained only a small amount of variation in HEAT. In summary, level of HEAT varies in estrus females even under thermoneutral conditions. Because HEAT can persist for an extended time, direct effects on fertility important components are unavoidable. Whether HEAT is a good or bad component of the periovulatory microenvironment is the basis of ongoing and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan D Mills
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Abigayle B Pollock
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Ian E Batey
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Michael A O’Neil
- Office of Innovative Technologies—Research Computing Support, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Sarah E Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Pablo Fioravanti
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Will Hipsher
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Saulo M Zoca
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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13
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Minela T, Gibb P, McBeth S, Santos A, Pursley JR. Reduced period from follicular wave emergence to luteolysis generated greater steroidogenic follicles and estrus intensity in dairy cows. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22818. [PMID: 38129551 PMCID: PMC10739795 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50001-x] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset of productive life in dairy cattle, concomitant to parturition, is accompanied by a substantial decrease in fertility in comparison with non-lactating, nulliparous heifers. Follicular growth patterns differ between parous and nulliparous dairy cattle. Nulliparous heifers ovulate follicles with reduced antral age (RAA). This study aimed to exogenously reduce ovulatory follicle age in lactating dairy cows from 7 to 5 days old. Cows (n = 80) had their estrous cycles synchronized with the Double-Ovsynch program. At the final portion of this program, luteolysis was induced at either 5 (RAA) or 7 (Control) days following follicular wave emergence. RAA outcomes were estimated in comparison with Controls. RAA resulted in smaller follicles 2 days post-treatment. Despite lower serum concentrations of 17β-estradiol before treatment compared with Controls, the rate of increase in this hormone was greater for the RAA treatment. There was no difference in luteolysis rates between treatments. Proestrus (luteolysis onset to estrus onset) was prolonged in RAA cows. Cows with RAA had more intense estruses. Collectively, these results indicate that decreasing the age of the ovulatory follicle may improve the steroidogenic capacity of the dominant follicle and estrus expression intensity in lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Minela
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - P Gibb
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S McBeth
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - A Santos
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - J R Pursley
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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14
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Bruinjé TC, Morrison EI, Ribeiro ES, Renaud DL, Couto Serrenho R, LeBlanc SJ. Postpartum health is associated with detection of estrus by activity monitors and reproductive performance in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9451-9473. [PMID: 37678796 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this prospective observational study was to investigate associations of postpartum health with estrus detection (ED) by activity monitors and pregnancy outcomes in dairy cows. A total of 1,743 Holstein cows from 2 commercial dairy herds in Ontario, Canada were enrolled 3 wk before expected parturition and examined for health variables until 9 wk postpartum. Body condition score (BCS) and lameness were measured at 3 wk prepartum, and serum concentrations of total Ca, haptoglobin (Hp), and nonesterified fatty acids were measured at 2 and 6 ± 2 d in milk (DIM), and blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and metritis were assessed at 4, 8, 11, and 15 ± 2 DIM. Cows were examined for purulent vaginal discharge (PVD) and endometritis (ENDO) by endometrial cytology at wk 5, for lameness at wk 3 and 7, for BCS at wk 9 postpartum, and for time to onset of cyclicity by biweekly serum progesterone (P4) measurements. Additional disease data were obtained from farm records. Reproductive management for first AI was primarily based on ED by activity monitors until at least 75 DIM, and cows not detected in estrus were synchronized. Data were analyzed in multivariable logistic or Cox proportional hazards regression models including blood markers, health variables, potential covariates, and herd as a random effect. Estrus was detected in 77% of primiparous and 66% of multiparous cows between 50 or 55 DIM and 75 DIM. In 1,246 cows, the model-predicted probability of ED (percentage point difference) was lower in cows that had retained placenta (-14%), ENDO (-7%), PVD (-8%), delayed cyclicity (no P4 > 1 ng/mL by wk 9; -12%), or ≥0.5-point BCS loss (-14%) compared with cows without each of these risk factors, and it was negatively associated with blood BHB at 15 DIM. Considering only variables measured on farm (not requiring laboratory analysis), the probability of ED was lower (56 vs. 81%) in cows with >1 risk factor compared with cows without risk factors. The predicted probability of pregnancy at first artificial insemination (percentage point difference) was lower in cows that had ENDO (-7%) or PVD (-7%), and negatively associated with serum Hp at 6 ± 2 DIM. In cows detected in estrus by 75 DIM (n = 888), risk factors for reduced pregnancy rate by 250 DIM (adjusted hazard ratio (AHR); 95% confidence intervals) included difficult calving (AHR: 0.67; 0.45 to 1.00), metritis (AHR: 0.79; 0.61 to 1.01), PVD (AHR: 0.79; 0.65 to 0.97), or lameness (AHR: 0.79; 0.62 to 1.01), and it was negatively associated with serum Hp at 6 ± 2 DIM. Monitoring postpartum health may be used to identify cows that are more or less likely to be detected in estrus by activity monitors and to become pregnant in a timely manner. This would support a selective reproductive management program with targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- T C Bruinjé
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1.
| | - E I Morrison
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - E S Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - D L Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - R Couto Serrenho
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - S J LeBlanc
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1
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15
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Marques JCS, Maciel JPO, Denis-Robichaud J, Conceicao RS, Bega AM, Moore S, Sirard MA, Baes CF, Cerri RLA. The effect of progesterone concentrations during superovulation of Holstein heifers in a randomized trial. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9677-9690. [PMID: 37641352 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-23065] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different progesterone (P4) concentrations during the follicular growth on the intensity of estrous expression, ovarian response to the superovulatory treatment, and embryo production and quality in superovulated heifers. A total of 63 Holstein heifers were randomly assigned into 2 experimental groups: Low P4 (n = 31) and High P4 (n = 32). Animals received a pre-synchronization protocol followed by a protocol of superovulation that included the allocated P4 treatment. Activity was monitored continuously by an automated activity monitor, and estrus characteristics (maximum intensity and duration) were recorded. Embryo collection was performed 7 d post artificial insemination (AI). Embryos were counted and graded from good or excellent (1) to degenerated (4). The outcomes of interest were: number and diameter of follicles at the time of AI, ovulation success (confirmed 7 d post-AI), time to estrus event, maximum intensity and duration of estrus, number and quality of embryos. Data were analyzed according to the type of outcome variable using logistic, linear, or Poisson regression models. A total of 105 embryos (High P4: n = 42; Low P4: n = 63) were graded for quality. Different P4 levels did not affect the maximum intensity (High P4 = 497.8 ± 23.9%; Low P4 = 542.2 ± 23.5%) or the duration (High P4 = 13.5 ± 1.5 h; Low P4 = 14.3 ± 1.4 h) of estrus. Heifers in the High P4 treatment had greater number of follicles at time of AI (High P4 = 16.6 ± 1.6 follicles; Low P4 = 13.9 ± 1.2 follicles), but with smaller diameter (High P4 = 11.3 ± 0.1 mm; Low P4 = 12.0 ± 0.1 mm) compared with Low P4. High P4 heifers tended to have better embryo quality compared with Low P4 heifers (odds ratio = 1.98; 95% CI = 0.90-4.35). High P4 heifers had less embryos than Low P4 heifers, but this was modified by the CIDR (intravaginal implant of P4) removal to estrus interval (interval 0-21 h: mean ratio = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.42-1.87; interval 22-46 h: mean ratio = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.27-0.96). Although estrous expression was not associated with embryo quality, as the duration and the maximum intensity of estrous expression increased, the number of embryos recovered 7 d post-AI increased (duration: mean ratio = 1.04; 95% CI = 1.03-1.05; maximum intensity: mean ratio = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.42-1.58). In conclusion, P4 during the follicular growth, and intensity of estrus, are playing a role in regulating the quality and the number of embryos produced by superovulated heifers. This study was supported by contributions from Resilient Dairy Genome Project and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C S Marques
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - J P O Maciel
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Rural Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 52171-900, Canada
| | - J Denis-Robichaud
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - R S Conceicao
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - A M Bega
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, São Paulo State University, Botucatu 18168-000, Canada
| | - S Moore
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - M A Sirard
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laval University, Quebec G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - C F Baes
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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16
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Saini G, Kumar S, Pandey AK, Yadav V, Sharma S. Intensity of estrus expression - valuable obvious determinant of fertility in Bos indicus cows. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:3867-3876. [PMID: 37477621 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2234961] [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] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize estrus response and to establish relationships between intensity of estrus, preovulatory follicle (POF) size and estradiol (E2) concentrations on day of AI, luteal profiles and pregnancy outcome in lactating Hariana breed of cows. 200 cyclic cows were subjected to Ovsynch (n = 54) and Pre-OV treatment (n = 146). Ovsynch: Buserelin acetate (BA; 10 µg), Cloprostenol (500 µg) and BA (10 µg) were injected i.m. on day 0, 7 and 9, respectively, irrespective of treatment. Pre-OV: BA (10 µg) and Cloprostenol (500 µg) was also injected i.m. simultaneously 7 days prior to initiate Ovsynch. On the basis of estrus behavior, the cows were classified into three groups: weak, moderate and intense. Artificial insemination performed at 18-24 hours after 2nd BA of Ovsynch in both treatments. The average duration of estrus did not differ (p > 0.05) between Ovsynch and Pre-OV treatment. A positive correlation was observed between estrus response and POF size, concentration of E2 on day of AI and luteal profiles on day 12 post-AI. First service conception rate was higher in cows exhibited intense (45.46%) and moderate (42.56%) estrus response than weak (28.57%) estrus response. In conclusion, intensity of estrus expression could be considered as important determinant for deciding pregnancy outcomes in Bos indicus cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitesh Saini
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Anand Kumar Pandey
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Vinay Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Smriti Sharma
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
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17
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Tippenhauer CM, Plenio JL, Madureira A, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S. Timing of Artificial Insemination Using Sexed or Conventional Semen Based on Automated Activity Monitoring of Estrus in Holstein Heifers. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2994. [PMID: 37835600 PMCID: PMC10571989 DOI: 10.3390/ani13192994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Investigations on the optimum timing of artificial insemination (AI) following automated activity monitoring (AAM) depending on different types of semen in heifers are limited and in part show controversial results. Therefore, the objective of this observational study was to determine the association between the timing of AI using different characteristics of estrus (i.e., the onset, peak, and end of estrus) and pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in Holstein heifers. Heifers were fitted with a neck-mounted AAM system and inseminated with frozen conventional and sexed semen. The pregnancy per AI (n = 4159) from 2858 heifers from six commercial dairy farms in Germany inseminated upon the alert of an AAM system was evaluated. Estrous intensity was classified based on peak activity into low (35 to 89 index value) and high (90 to 100 index value). We detected a quadratic association between the interval from the onset of estrus to AI and P/AI (p = 0.02). The greatest P/AI was observed for heifers inseminated from 9 to 32 h after the onset of estrus. The intervals from the peak of activity to AI and the end of estrus to AI were not associated with P/AI (p ≥ 0.05). Heifers inseminated with frozen conventional semen (50.1%) had a greater P/AI compared with heifers inseminated with frozen sexed semen (43.3%; p = 0.03). There were no interactions between the intervals from the onset, peak, or end of estrus to AI or the type of semen and the P/AI (p ≥ 0.05). The pregnancy per AI was not associated with estrous intensity (50.5% for low intensity vs. 53.0% for high intensity; p = 0.37). In conclusion, inseminating heifers between 9 and 32 h after the onset of estrus, as detected by the AAM, optimized the P/AI regardless of semen type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christie Marie Tippenhauer
- Farm Animal Clinic, Division for Ruminants and Camelids, Unit for Reproduction Medicine and Udder Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan-Lukas Plenio
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Augusto Madureira
- Ridgetown Campus, University of Guelph, Ridgetown, ON N0P 2C0, Canada
| | - Wolfgang Heuwieser
- Farm Animal Clinic, Division for Ruminants and Camelids, Unit for Reproduction Medicine and Udder Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Borchardt
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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Curti PDF, Selli A, Pinto DL, Merlos-Ruiz A, Balieiro JCDC, Ventura RV. Applications of livestock monitoring devices and machine learning algorithms in animal production and reproduction: an overview. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230077. [PMID: 37700909 PMCID: PMC10494883 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0077] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Some sectors of animal production and reproduction have shown great technological advances due to the development of research areas such as Precision Livestock Farming (PLF). PLF is an innovative approach that allows animals to be monitored, through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that continuously collect real-time data by combining the use of sensors with advanced algorithms to provide decision tools for farmers. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field that merges computer science and large datasets to create expert systems that are able to generate predictions and classifications similarly to human intelligence. In a simplified manner, Machine Learning (ML) is a branch of AI, and can be considered as a broader field that encompasses Deep Learning (DL, a Neural Network formed by at least three layers), generating a hierarchy of subsets formed by AI, ML and DL, respectively. Both ML and DL provide innovative methods for analyzing data, especially beneficial for large datasets commonly found in livestock-related activities. These approaches enable the extraction of valuable insights to address issues related to behavior, health, reproduction, production, and the environment, facilitating informed decision-making. In order to create the referred technologies, studies generally go through five steps involving data processing: acquisition, transferring, storage, analysis and delivery of results. Although the data collection and analysis steps are usually thoroughly reported by the scientific community, a good execution of each step is essential to achieve good and credible results, which impacts the degree of acceptance of the proposed technologies in real life practical circumstances. In this context, the present work aims to describe an overview of the current implementations of ML/DL in livestock reproduction and production, as well to identify potential challenges and critical points in each of the five steps mentioned, which can affect results and application of AI techniques by farmers in practical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula de Freitas Curti
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Alana Selli
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Diógenes Lodi Pinto
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Alexandre Merlos-Ruiz
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Julio Cesar de Carvalho Balieiro
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
| | - Ricardo Vieira Ventura
- Departamento de Nutrição e Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brasil
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Das S, Shaji A, Nain D, Singha S, Karunakaran M, Baithalu RK. Precision technologies for the management of reproduction in dairy cows. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:286. [PMID: 37540276 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03704-2] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Precision livestock farming (PLF) utilizes information and communication technology (ICT) to continuously monitor, control, and enhance the productivity, reproduction, health, welfare, and environmental impact of livestock. Technological advancements have facilitated the seamless flow of information from animals to humans, enabling practical decision-making processes concerning health, reproduction management, and calving surveillance. With the increasing population of livestock per farm, it has become impractical for farmers to individually track every animal within these large groups. Historically, cattle management decisions heavily relied on human observation, judgment, and experience. However, it is impossible for a single individual to gather reliable audio-visual monitoring data round the clock. Presently, dairy cows exhibit subtler indicators of estrus, resulting in a substantial chance of missing an estrus cycle. Furthermore, calving complications sometimes go unnoticed on farms, resulting in a higher number of culled cattle. In addition, an increasing number of crossbred cows experience delayed return to estrus after calving due to low body condition scores (BCS). The decline in BCS during the dry period is associated with a reduced likelihood of pregnancy following the first and second postpartum inseminations. Precision technologies enable the monitoring and tracking of an individual cow's physiological behavior and reproductive parameters, thereby optimizing management practices and farm performance. Despite the exploration of various technologies, there are still some common challenges that need to be addressed, including battery lifespan, transmission range, specificity and sensitivity, storage capacity, and economic affordability. Nonetheless, the demand for these tools from farmers and researchers is growing, and the implementation of PLF in grazing systems can yield positive outcomes in terms of animal reproductive welfare and labor optimization. This review primarily focuses on the different aspects of reproduction management in dairy using sensors, automated cameras, and various computer software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surajit Das
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (ERS), A-12, Kalyani, West Bengal, 741235, India.
| | - Arsha Shaji
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
| | - Dipti Nain
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
| | - Shubham Singha
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (ERS), A-12, Kalyani, West Bengal, 741235, India
| | - M Karunakaran
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (ERS), A-12, Kalyani, West Bengal, 741235, India
| | - Rubina Kumari Baithalu
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
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Cheon SN, Park GW, Park KH, Jeon JH. Peri-estrus activity and mounting behavior and its application to estrus detection in Hanwoo (Korea Native Cattle). JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 65:748-758. [PMID: 37970510 PMCID: PMC10640956 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2022.e126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the change in activity and mounting behavior in Hanwoo (Korean Native Cattle) during the peri-estrus period and its application to estrus detection. A total of 20 Hanwoo cows were fitted with a neck-collar accelerometer device, which measured the location and acceleration of cow movements and recorded the number of instances of mounting behavior by the altitude data. The data were analyzed in three periods (24-, 6-, and 2-h periods). Blood samples were collected for 5 days after the prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) injection, and the concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Activity and mounting behavior recorded over 2-h periods significantly increased as estrus approached and were more efficient at detecting estrus than over 24- and 6-h periods (p < 0.05). Endocrine patterns did not differ with the variation of individual cows during the peri-estrus period (p > 0.05). Activity was selected as the best predictor through stepwise discriminant analysis. However, activity alone is not enough to detect estrus. We suggest that a combination of activity and mounting behavior may improve estrus detection efficiency in Hanwoo. Further research is necessary to validate the findings on a larger sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Nae Cheon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Geun-Woo Park
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence,
Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Kyu-Hyun Park
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence,
Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Korea
| | - Jung Hwan Jeon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National
Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture,
Wanju 55365, Korea
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21
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Tippenhauer CM, Plenio JL, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S. Association of activity and subsequent fertility of dairy cows after spontaneous estrus or timed artificial insemination. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:4291-4305. [PMID: 37164863 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this observational study was to evaluate the association between increased physical activity at first artificial insemination (AI) and subsequent pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in lactating Holstein cows following spontaneous estrus or a timed AI (TAI) protocol. We also wanted to identify factors associated with the intensity of activity increase (PA) captured by automated activity monitors (AAM) and fertility. Two experiments were conducted, in which cows either were inseminated based on the alert of the AAM system (AAM cows) or received TAI following a 7-d Ovsynch protocol (TAI cows) if not inseminated within a farm-specific period after calving. Experiment 1 included 2,698 AI services from AAM cows and 1,042 AI services from TAI cows equipped with the Smarttag Neck (Nedap Livestock Management) from a dairy farm in Slovakia (farm 1). In the second experiment, 6,517 AI services from AAM cows and 1,226 AI services from TAI cows fitted with Heatime (Heatime Pro; SCR Engineers Ltd.) from 8 dairy farms in Germany (farms 2-9) were included. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed on a weekly basis by transrectal ultrasound (farms 1, 3, 7, 8) or by transrectal palpation (farms 2, 4-6, 9). Estrous intensity was represented by the peak value of the change in activity. In experiment 1, PA was categorized into low (x-factor 0-20) and high (x-factor 21-100) PA, and in experiment 2 into low (activity change = 35-89) and high (activity change = 90-100) PA. In TAI cows from both experiments, PA was additionally categorized into cows with no AAM alert. Data were analyzed separately for AAM and TAI cows using multinomial logistic regression models for PA in TAI cows and logistic regression models for PA in AAM cows and P/AI in both groups. In experiment 1, P/AI of AAM cows was greater for AI services performed with conventional frozen semen (57.6%) compared with sexed semen (47.2%), whereas type of semen only tended to be associated with P/AI in TAI cows (54.4% conventional frozen semen vs. 48.9% sexed semen). In experiment 2, P/AI was greater for fresh semen (AAM cows: 44.4% vs. TAI cows: 44.2%) compared with conventional frozen semen (AAM cows: 37.6% vs. TAI cows: 34.6%). In both experiments, pregnancy outcomes were associated with PA. In experiment 1, AAM cows with high PA (55.1%) had greater P/AI than cows with low PA (49.8%). Within TAI cows, cows with no alert (38.8%) had reduced P/AI compared with cows with low (54.2%) or high PA (61.8%). In experiment 2, AAM cows with high PA (45.8%) had greater P/AI compared with cows with low PA (36.4%). Timed AI cows with no alert (27.4%) had decreased P/AI compared with cows with low (41.1%) or high (50.8%) PA. The greatest risk factors for high PA were parity (experiment 1) and season of AI (except for TAI cows from experiment 1). We conclude that high PA at the time of AI is associated with greater odds of pregnancy for both AAM and TAI cows. In both experiments, about 2 thirds of AAM cows (experiment 1: 69.9% and experiment 2: 70.7%) reached high PA, whereas only approximately one-third or less of TAI cows (experiment 1: 37.3% and experiment 2: 23.6%) showed high PA. Although we observed similar results using 2 different AAM systems for the most part, risk factors for high PA might differ between farms and insemination type (i.e., AAM vs. TAI).
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Tippenhauer
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - J-L Plenio
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany.
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Koenigsweg 65, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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22
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Pereira MHC, Cappellozza BI, Cerri RLA, Sanches CP, Guida TG, Barbosa LFSP, Santos JEP, Vasconcelos JLM. Effects of additional gonadotropin-releasing hormone and prostaglandin F 2α treatment to an estradiol/progesterone-based embryo transfer protocol for recipient lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:1414-1428. [PMID: 36460499 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22134] [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: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate whether the utilization of a second PGF2α treatment at the end of an estradiol/progesterone (E2/P4)-based protocol with or without GnRH at the beginning of the protocol would improve pregnancy rates of lactating Holstein cows assigned to timed embryo transfer. A total of 501 lactating Holstein cows in 5 farms were enrolled in the experiment. Within farm, cows were blocked by parity and, within block, were assigned randomly to (1) insertion of an intravaginal P4 device (controlled internal drug-releasing device; CIDR) and estradiol benzoate on d -11, PGF2α on d -4, CIDR withdrawal and an injection of estradiol cypionate on d -2, and timed embryo transfer on d 7 (1-PGF; n = 164); (2) the same treatments as 1-PGF, but with PGF2α administered on d -4 and -2 (2-PGF; n = 171); and (3) 2-PGF with the addition of a GnRH treatment on d -11 (GnRH+2-PGF; n = 166). Ovaries were scanned by transrectal ultrasonography on d -11, -4, and 7, and blood samples were collected on d -11, -4, 0, and 7 for P4 determination. Treatment comparisons were performed using contrasts. The proportion of cows with a new corpus luteum on d -4 was greater in GnRH+2-PGF cows. Cows in 1-PGF had a greater P4 concentration on d 0 but lesser P4 on d 7 compared with cows in the other groups. Cows assigned to receive 2-PGF (2-PGF and GnRH+2-PGF) had greater estrus expression, and a greater proportion of cows ovulated to estradiol cypionate. No further contrast effects were observed for follicle diameter, double ovulation rate, pregnancy per embryo transfer (P/ET) on d 32 and 60, or pregnancy loss. As P4 concentration on d -4 increased, P/ET on d 60 tended to increase. Cows with P4 ≥3.66 ng/mL on d -4 had greater P/ET on d 32 and 60 than those with P4 below that threshold. Regardless of treatment, cows with P4 concentration ≥3.66 ng/mL also had a greater pregnancy per synchronized protocol (P/SP) on d 60. Also, a P4 concentration on d -4 (low or high) × follicle diameter (continuous) interaction tendency was observed when evaluating P/ET. Although P/ET did not differ among cows with different follicles sizes with reduced P4 concentration on d -4 (<3.66 ng/mL), it increased in cows with larger follicles exposed to increased P4 concentration (≥3.66 ng/mL). When P4 on d 0 was evaluated, P/ET on d 32 and 60 was greater for cows with low (≤0.09 ng/mL) versus high (>0.21 ng/mL) P4; as P4 concentration on d 0 increased, P/ET linearly decreased. In summary, cows with increased P4 concentrations during growth of the ovulatory follicular wave had improved P/ET. Administering a second PGF2α dose reduced P4 concentration on d 0 and increased ovulatory response to the protocol, but no benefits were observed on P/ET or P/SP.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H C Pereira
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - B I Cappellozza
- Chr. Hansen Animal Health & Nutrition, Hoersholm, 2970, Denmark
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - C P Sanches
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - T G Guida
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - L F S P Barbosa
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil
| | - J E P Santos
- Department of Animal Sciences, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu 18168-000, Brazil.
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23
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Estrus Detection in a Dairy Herd Using an Electronic Nose by Direct Sampling on the Perineal Region. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9120688. [PMID: 36548849 PMCID: PMC9786671 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9120688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrus detection is very important for the profitability of dairy herds. Different automatic systems for estrus detection have been developed over the last decades. Our study aimed to assess the ability of the electronic nose (EN) MENT-EGAS prototype to detect estrus, based on odor release from the perineal headspace in dairy cattle by direct sampling. The study was performed in an Italian dairy farm using 35 multiparous Holstein-Friesian cows. The cows were divided into three groups: group I included 10 lactating 5-month pregnant cows, group II included 19 lactating cycling cows, and group III included 6 cows that were artificially inseminated 18 days before the trial. Odors from the perineal headspace were collected using the MENT-EGAS prototype. In group I, odors were collected once a day for 5 consecutive days. In group II, odors were collected twice daily from day 18 until day 1 of the reproductive cycle. In group III, odors were also collected twice daily from the presumable day 18 of gestation until day 22. Principal component analyses (PCA) of the perineal headspace samples were performed. PCA in group I revealed no significant discrimination. PCA in group II revealed clear discrimination between proestrus and estrus, and between estrus and metestrus but no significant discrimination was obtained between proestrus and metestrus. PCA in group III revealed that in four cows the results were similar to group I and in two cows the results were similar to group II. On day 40 of the presumable pregnancy, the ultrasound examination revealed that only the four cows were pregnant and the other two cows were regularly cycling. On the basis of our findings, we conclude that it is possible to accurately detect estrus in dairy cattle from directly collected odor samples using the MENT-EGAS prototype. This represents the first study of estrus detection using an EN detection by direct sampling. EN technologies, such as MENT-EGAS, could be applied in the future in dairy cattle farms as a precise, non-invasive method for estrus detection.
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Madureira A, Burnett T, Carrelli J, Gobikrushanth M, Cerri R, Ambrose D. Anogenital distance is associated with postpartum estrous activity, intensity of estrous expression, ovulation, and progesterone concentrations in lactating Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:8523-8534. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-21897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Liles HL, Schneider LG, Pohler KG, Oliveira Filho RV, Neal Schrick F, Payton RR, Rhinehart JD, Thompson KW, McLean K, Edwards JL. Positive relationship of rectal temperature at fixed timed artificial insemination on pregnancy outcomes in beef cattle. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620791. [PMID: 35772756 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The overarching aim was to examine the relationship of rectal temperature at fixed time artificial insemination (FTAI) on pregnancy outcomes in a typical breeding season with expected pregnancy rates approaching 50% using Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle. This represents a continuum of steps to test the hypothesis that elevated body temperature at or around insemination is functionally important to maximize pregnancy outcomes. Rectal temperature of Bos indicus cattle at FTAI ranged from 37.0 to 40.9 °C; 60.6% were hyperthermic. Positive factors impacting pregnancy outcomes were rectal temperature at FTAI, body condition, and estrus patch scores. Rectal temperature at FTAI was positively associated with pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.0001); per each 1 °C increase pregnancy odds increased 1.9 times (95% CI: 1.4 to 2.6). Highest pregnancy outcomes occurred with rectal temperatures exceeding 40 °C (P = 0.0004). Rectal temperature before FTAI in Bos taurus cattle ranged from 37.8 to 41.8 °C; 43.3% were hyperthermic. Factors impacting pregnancy were rectal temperature at FTAI, estrus activity, parity, and ambient conditions on day of FTAI. Rectal temperature of Bos taurus cattle at FTAI was positively associated with pregnancy (P = 0.0286); odds increased 1.45 times (95% CI: 1.0 to 2.0) per each 1 °C increase. Highest pregnancy outcomes occurred with rectal temperatures at FTAI exceeding 40 °C (P = 0.057). Moreover, positive relationship of rectal temperature at FTAI to pregnancy persisted in estrual females (71.25% of total; P = 0.0408; OR 1.5; 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.2). Mindful that 1) elevated temperatures observed in Bos indicus and Bos taurus cattle directly promote meiotic resumption of the oocyte in vitro and that 2) in vivo hyperthermia alters intrafollicular components which others have shown to potentiate ovulation and promote meiotic resumption, it is biologically plausible that an acute elevation in body temperature at or around time of insemination is functionally important to maximize pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter L Liles
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Liesel G Schneider
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Ky G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Ramiro V Oliveira Filho
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Justin D Rhinehart
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Kevin W Thompson
- University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Middle Tennessee Research and Education Center, Spring Hill, TN 37174, USA
| | - Kyle McLean
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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26
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Giordano JO, Sitko EM, Rial C, Pérez MM, Granados GE. Symposium review: Use of multiple biological, management, and performance data for the design of targeted reproductive management strategies for dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:4669-4678. [PMID: 35307173 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
As the reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle continues to improve in response to better management and use of technology, novel reproductive management approaches will be required to improve herd performance, profitability, and sustainability. A potential approach currently being explored is targeted reproductive management. This approach consists of identifying cows with different reproductive and performance potential using multiple traditional and novel sources of biological, management, and performance data. Once subgroups of cows that share biological and performance features are identified, reproductive management strategies specifically designed to optimize cow performance, herd profitability, or alternative outcomes of interest are implemented on different subgroups of cows. Tailoring reproductive management to subgroups of cows is expected to generate greater gains in outcomes of interest than if the whole herd is under similar management. Major steps in the development and implementation of targeted reproductive management programs for dairy cattle include identification and validation of robust predictors of reproductive outcomes and cow performance, and the development and on-farm evaluation of reproductive management strategies for optimizing outcomes of interest for subgroups of cows. Predictors of cow performance currently explored for use in targeted management include genomic predictions; behavioral, physiological, and performance parameters monitored by sensor technologies; and individual cow and herd performance records. Once the most valuable predictive sources of variation are identified and their effects quantified, novel analytic methods (e.g., machine learning) for prediction will likely be required. These tools must identify groups of cows for targeted management in real time and with no human input. Despite some encouraging research evidence supporting the development of targeted reproductive management strategies, extensive work is required before widespread implementation by commercial farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J O Giordano
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
| | - E M Sitko
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - C Rial
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M M Pérez
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - G E Granados
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
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Pereira M, Cappellozza B, Costa W, Barbosa L, Cerri R, Vasconcelos J. Effects of estradiol cypionate dose as an ovulatory stimulus on reproductive performance of lactating dairy cows during the summer season. Theriogenology 2022; 182:110-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Marques JCDS, Cadima GP, Faria ACF, Guimarães EA, Oliveira FS, Santos RMD. Application of PGF2α at the moment of fixed-time artificial insemination in crossbred beef cows. Anim Reprod 2022; 19:e20220012. [PMID: 36381270 PMCID: PMC9639573 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Although studies have shown positive effects of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) or prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) at the moment of fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) in the conception rate (CR) of cattle, its effects on treatments based on progesterone (P4) and estradiol benzoate (EB) is still not conclusive. The objective of this study was (1) to evaluate the effect of a PGF2α analogue at FTAI in the CR of crossbred beef cows submitted to a 11d FTAI protocol based on P4 and EB; and (2) to describe the CR between PGF2α-treated and control cows in different body condition scores (BCS) and parity categories. Crossbred (½ Nellore and ½ Angus) beef cows were submitted to a synchronization protocol and randomly assigned into 2 groups: Control (n = 163), at FTAI cows received 2 mL of saline solution as a placebo, and PGF2α (n = 163), at FTAI cows were treated with PGF2α analogue (10 mg of dinoprost tromethamine). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 33d post-FTAI. Binary logistic regression model was used to analyze the effect of PGF2α treatment on CR. There was no difference in CR between PGF2α and control groups (P > 0.05; odds ratio (OR) = 0.92; confidence interval (CI) = 0.59-1.4). A greater CR was found in heifers (P = 0.0006, OR = 2.65, CI = 1.61 - 4.38) and multiparous (P = 0.0006, OR = 2.12, CI = 1.04 - 4.3) when compared to primiparous cows. Cows with low BCS (4; 9-point scale) showed lower CR when compared with moderate BCS (5-6; 9-point scale) (P < 0.05; OR = 0.10; CI = 0.06 - 0.18). There was no numerical difference on CR between PGF2α-treated and control cows in different BCS and parity categories. The results suggested that the CR in this study was not influenced by 10 mg PGF2α analogue at FTAI.
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Burnett TA, Madureira AML, Bauer JW, Cerri RLA. Impact of GnRH administration at the time of artificial insemination on conception risk and its association with estrous expression. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:1743-1753. [PMID: 34802740 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cows with reduced estrous expression have compromised fertility. The aim of this study was to determine whether the administration of GnRH at the time of artificial insemination (AI) would affect ovulation rates and the fertility of animals expressing estrous behavior of lesser intensity. Cows were enrolled at the time of estrus from 3 farms (n = 2,607 estrus events; farm A: 1,507, farm B: 429, farm C: 671) and randomly assigned to receive GnRH at AI or not (control). The intensity of estrous expression, monitored through leg-mounted activity monitors, was determined using the maximum activity during estrus; estrous expression was categorized as greater or lower relative to the farm median. On farm A, cows were assessed at alert, and 24 h, 48 h, and 7 d post-alert for ovulation using ultrasonography. Pregnancy per AI was confirmed at 35 ± 7 d post-estrus for cows that were inseminated. Differences between treatments were tested using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Treatment with GnRH at the time of AI increased pregnancy per AI (41.3 ± 1.6 vs. 35.7 ± 1.7%). An interaction between treatment and estrous expression on pregnancy per AI was found. Control cows with greater estrous expression had greater pregnancy per AI than those with lesser expression, whereas GnRH administration increased pregnancy per AI for cows with lesser estrous expression but not those with greater expression (GnRH, greater intensity: 43.5 ± 2.1; GnRH, lesser intensity: 37.8 ± 2.2; control, greater intensity: 42.6 ± 2.2; control, lesser intensity: 31.0 ± 2.2%). A higher proportion of cows with greater estrous expression that were administered GnRH at AI were found to ovulate by 48 h and 7 d post-estrus; however, ovulation of cows with lesser estrous expression was unaffected by GnRH administration. In conclusion, fertility of cows with reduced estrous expression may be increased using GnRH at the time of AI; however, increased ovulation rates do not seem to be the direct mechanism behind this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Burnett
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Augusto M L Madureira
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Janet W Bauer
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ronaldo L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Reed CB, Kuhn-Sherlock B, Burke CR, Meier S. Estrous activity in lactating cows with divergent genetic merit for fertility traits. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:1674-1686. [PMID: 34799112 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20811] [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: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This observational study aimed to determine the effect of genetic merit for fertility traits on estrous expression and estrous cycle duration in grazing dairy cows, as measured by an activity monitoring device. A secondary aim was to describe changes in expression of estrus that occur during successive estrous cycles postpartum. Neck-mounted, activity-monitoring devices (Heatime, SCR Engineers Ltd.) were fitted to nulliparous Holstein-Friesian heifers with positive (POS FertBV) or negative genetic merit for fertility traits (NEG FertBV) to capture activity data during their first and second lactations (POS FertBV: n = 242, n = 188; NEG FertBV: n = 159, n = 87 in lactation 1 and 2, respectively). An estrous event was identified when the activity change index exceeded 26 activity units (AU) for 4 h. A total of 1,254 and 892 estrous events were identified in lactation 1 and 2, respectively. Estrous duration was defined as the interval between when the threshold was first exceeded and when activity dropped below the threshold, with no new event starting within 24 h of the end of the previous event. This definition of estrus included cows in which activity crossed the threshold multiple times in a day and were classified as a single estrous event. A second measure, high activity duration, was defined as the total hours that activity exceeded the threshold. To characterize estrous activity, peak activity (above baseline) and total activity (area under the curve of activity above baseline) were measured. Compared with NEG FertBV cows, POS FertBV cows had more active, longer estrous events. In lactation 1, the POS FertBV group had a mean estrous duration and a high activity duration of 12.5 and 12.4 h compared with 11.4 and 11.3 h for the NEG FertBV group [standard error of the difference (SED) = 0.5 and 0.4 h, respectively]. This significant difference also occurred in lactation 2, with a mean estrous duration of 13.1 versus 11.8 h (SED = 0.5 h) and a high activity duration of 13.0 versus 11.8 h (SED = 0.4 h) in the POS and NEG FertBV groups, respectively. Total activity and peak activity were greater in the POS compared with the NEG FertBV group in lactation 1 (peak activity: 65.5 vs. 55.8 AU, SED = 2.4 AU; total activity: 588 vs. 494 AU, SED = 25 AU) and lactation 2 (peak activity: 72.5 vs. 61.2 AU, SED = 2.9 AU; total activity: 648 vs. 541 AU, SED = 30 AU). Estrous cycle duration did not differ between the POS and NEG FertBV groups (lactation 1: 20.4 vs. 20.6 d, SED = 0.25; lactation 2: 20.8 vs. 21.0 d, SED = 0.28). Less estrous activity of the cow was associated with the first postpartum estrus. In contrast, the number of previous estrous events did not consistently affect the duration of the subsequent estrous cycle. The outcomes of this study provide evidence that positive genetic merit for fertility traits is associated with more overt estrous expression. Selection for these traits may improve estrous expression and thus estrous detection in commercial herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Reed
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand.
| | | | - C R Burke
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - S Meier
- DairyNZ Ltd., Private Bag 3221, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
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Hubner AM, Canisso IF, Peixoto PM, Conley AJ, Lima FS. Effect of GnRH administered at the time of artificial insemination for cows detected in estrus by conventional estrus detection or an automated activity-monitoring system. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:831-841. [PMID: 34756436 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21011] [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: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of GnRH at the time of artificial insemination (AI) on ovulation, progesterone 7 d post-AI, and pregnancy in cows detected in estrus using traditional methods (tail chalk removal and mount acceptance visualization) or an automated activity-monitoring (AAM) system. We hypothesized that administration of GnRH at the time of AI would increase ovulation rate, plasma progesterone post-AI, and pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in cows detected in estrus. In experiment 1, Holstein cows (n = 398) were blocked by parity and randomly assigned to receive an injection of GnRH at the time of estrus detection/AI (GnRH, n = 197) or to remain untreated (control, n = 201) on 4 farms. The GnRH was administered as 100 µg of gonadorelin acetate. Ovarian structures and plasma progesterone were assessed in a subset of cows (GnRH, n = 52; control, n = 55) in experiment 1 at the time of AI and 7 d later. In experiment 2, a group of 409 cows in an AAM farm were enrolled as described for experiment 1 (GnRH, n = 207; control, n = 202). Data were categorized for parity (primiparous vs. multiparous), season (cool vs. warm), number of services (first vs. > first), DIM (>150 DIM vs. ≤150 DIM), and for AAM cows in experiment 2 for activity level (high: 90-100 index vs. low: 35-89 index). Pregnancy diagnosis was performed between 32 and 45 d post-AI (P1) and 60 to 115 d post-AI (P2). In experiment 1, there was no difference in plasma progesterone at day of estrus detection (control = 0.09 ng/mL vs. GnRH = 0.16 ng/mL), 7 d later (control = 2.03 ng/mL vs. GnRH = 2.18 ng/mL), and ovulation rate (GnRH = 83.2% vs. control = 77.9%) between treatments. There were no effects of GnRH in experiment 1 for P/AI at P1 (control = 43.3% vs. GnRH = 38.6%), P2 (control = 38.4% vs. GnRH = 34.5%), and for pregnancy loss (control = 9.8% vs. GnRH = 8.2%). In experiment 2, there were no effects of GnRH for P/AI at P1 (control = 39.6% vs. GnRH = 40.1%), P2 (control = 35.0% vs. GnRH = 37.4%), and for pregnancy loss (control = 9.5% vs. GnRH = 6.2%). There was a tendency for a parity effect on P/AI for P1, but not P2 or for pregnancy loss. High-activity cows had greater P/AI in P1 (low activity = 27.9% vs. high activity = 44.1%), P2 (low activity = 21.8% vs. high activity = 41.2%), and lower pregnancy loss (low activity = 20.7% vs. high activity = 5.1%), but there were no interactions between treatment and activity level. The current study did not support the use of GnRH at estrus detection to improve ovulatory response, progesterone 1 wk post-AI, and P/AI. More research is needed to investigate the relationship between GnRH at the time of AI and activity level in herds using AAM systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Hubner
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - I F Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802.
| | - P M Peixoto
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802
| | - A J Conley
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - F S Lima
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
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32
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Madureira AML, Burnett TA, Marques JCS, Moore AL, Borchardt S, Heuwieser W, Guida TG, Vasconcelos JLM, Baes CF, Cerri RLA. Occurrence and greater intensity of estrus in recipient lactating dairy cows improve pregnancy per embryo transfer. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:877-888. [PMID: 34656349 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between occurrence and intensity of estrous expression with pregnancy success in recipient lactating dairy cows subjected to embryo transfer (ET). Two observational studies were conducted. Holstein cows were synchronized using the same timed ET protocol, based on estradiol and progesterone in both experiments. At 9 d after the end of the timed ET protocol only animals that had ovulated were implanted with a 7-d embryo [experiment 1 (Exp. 1); n = 1,401 ET events from 1,045 cows, and experiment 2 (Exp. 2); n = 1,147 ET events from 657 cows]. Embryos were produced in vivo (Exp. 1 and Exp. 2) and in vitro (only Exp. 2), then transferred to recipient cows as fresh or frozen-thawed. Pregnancy was confirmed at 29 and 58 d after the end of timed ET protocol. In Exp. 1, animals had their estrous expression monitored through a tail chalk applied on the tail head of the cows and evaluated daily for chalk removal (no estrus: 100% of chalk remaining; estrus: <50% of chalk remaining). In Exp. 2, cows were continuously monitored by a leg-mounted automated activity monitor. Estrous expression was quantified using the relative increase in physical activity at estrus in relation to the days before estrus. Estrous expression was classified as no estrus [<100% relative increase in activity (RI)], weak intensity (100-299% RI), and strong intensity (≥300% RI). Data were analyzed by analysis of variance using mixed linear regression models (GLIMMIX) in SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). A total of 65.2% (914/1,401) and 89.2% (1,019/1,142) of cows from Exp. 1 and Exp. 2, respectively, displayed estrus at the end of the ovulation synchronization protocol. In Exp. 1, cows expressing estrus before to ET had greater pregnancy per ET than those that did not [41.0 ± 2.3% (381/914) vs. 31.5 ± 2.9% (151/487), respectively]. Similarly, in Exp. 2, cows classified in the strong intensity group had greater pregnancy per ET compared with cows in the weak intensity and no estrus groups [41.3 ± 2.2% (213/571) vs. 32.7 ± 2.7% (115/353) vs. 11.3 ± 3.5% (26/218), respectively]. There was no effect of ET type on pregnancy per ET in Exp. 1. However, in Exp. 2, cows that received an in vivo-produced embryo, either fresh or frozen, had greater pregnancy per ET compared with cows that received in vitro-produced embryo. Cows receiving embryos in the early blastocyst and blastocyst stage had greater fertility compared with cows receiving embryos in the morula stage. There was an interaction between the occurrence of estrus and the stage of embryo development on pregnancy per ET, cows which displayed estrus and received a morula or early blastocyst had greater pregnancy per ET than cows that did not display estrus. In conclusion, the occurrence and the intensity of estrous expression improved pregnancy per ET in recipient lactating dairy cows and thus could be used as a tool to assist in the decision making of reproduction strategies in dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M L Madureira
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - T A Burnett
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4; Ridgetown Campus, University of Guelph, Ridgetown, ON, Canada, N0P 2C0
| | - J C S Marques
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - A L Moore
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany, 14163
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, Germany, 14163
| | - T G Guida
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil 18168-000
| | - C F Baes
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1; Institute of Genetics, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3002 Bern, Switzerland
| | - R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.
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Brozos C, Kiossis E, Hatzieffraimidis S, Praxitelous A, Gouvias I, Kanoulas V, Tsousis G. Comparison of 5 Versus 7-Day Ovsynch + Progesterone Releasing Intravaginal Device Protocols (PRID) and a Modified G7G with an Option of Heat Detection Protocol for 1st Service in Lactating Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2955. [PMID: 34679976 PMCID: PMC8532827 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of two timed-AI (TAI) protocols (Group G5D, GnRH and PRID -5d- PGF2a -1d- PGF2a -1d- GnRH, n = 105 and Group G7D, GnRH and PRID-7d- PGF2a -1d- PGF2a -1d- GnRH, n = 98) and a modified G7G protocol combining heat detection (HD) and AI or TAI if HD failed (Group HD, GnRH and PRID -7d- PGF2a -1d- PGF2a -5d- HD or 5d TAI if no HD, n = 92). Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) did not differ between G5D and G7D protocol (G5D: 33.8% vs. G7D: 35.2%, P = 0.85). Cows assigned to G5D and G7D group were pooled as TAI group (GTAI) and further compared to GHD. Within the GHD, more primiparous cows exhibited estrous signs compared to multiparous cows (70.4% vs. 46.2%, P = 0.03). Furthermore, 49 cows (53.3%) were served after HD, whereas 43 cows (46.7%) were served after TAI. There was no difference in P/AI between cows served after HD (51.6%) or after TAI (43.0%, P = 0.49). GHD showed higher P/AI at 1st service compared to GTAI (49.1% vs. 36.4%, P = 0.04), whilst, median days to pregnancy did not differ between the two groups. Overall, P/AI of primiparous cows tended to be better in comparison with multiparous cows (48.3% vs. 37.2%, P = 0.06). In conclusion, there was no significant difference regarding the efficacy of 5- and 7-day Ovsynch + PRID protocols. Moreover, a modified G7G protocol, with intermediate heat detection, resulted in overall better P/AI compared to TAI protocols and appears as a promising strategy to optimize estrus detection for 1st AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Brozos
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (C.B.); (E.K.); (S.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Evangelos Kiossis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (C.B.); (E.K.); (S.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Savvas Hatzieffraimidis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (C.B.); (E.K.); (S.H.); (A.P.)
| | - Anastasia Praxitelous
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (C.B.); (E.K.); (S.H.); (A.P.)
| | | | | | - Georgios Tsousis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54627 Thessaloniki, Greece; (C.B.); (E.K.); (S.H.); (A.P.)
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Cunha TO, Martinez W, Walleser E, Martins JPN. Effects of GnRH and hCG administration during early luteal phase on estrous cycle length, expression of estrus and fertility in lactating dairy cows. Theriogenology 2021; 173:23-31. [PMID: 34157566 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to determine the effects of a single treatment of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or GnRH from d 5 to 7 of the estrous cycle on cycle length, expression of estrus and fertility in lactating dairy cows. Lactating Holstein cows (n = 354) located in Farm 1 and lactating Jersey cows located in Farm 2 (n = 210) detected in estrus by an Automated Activity Monitor (AAM) system from 27 to 50 days in milk (DIM) were randomly assigned to receive one of three treatments from d 5 to 7 of the estrous cycle: control (untreated; CON; Holstein, n = 111; Jersey, n = 66), GnRH (86 μg gonadorelin acetate im; Holstein, n = 116; Jersey, n = 75), or hCG (3,300 IU im; Holstein, n = 127; Jersey, n = 69). Ovaries were scanned with ultrasound in a random subgroup of cows (Holstein/Farm 1, n = 147; Jersey/Farm 2, n = 94) on the day of treatment and 3 or 4 d later to determine ovulation. Estrus was detected after treatment by an AAM, and peak activity and heat index were recorded. A random subgroup of cows observed in estrus after treatment received first AI from 51 to 80 DIM (Holstein, n = 208; Jersey, n = 138). Pregnancy diagnoses were performed by transrectal ultrasonography at 37 ± 3 d post-AI. Holstein and Jersey cows treated with GnRH and hCG had an increased (P < 0.05) ovulatory response compared with controls. Human chorionic gonadotropin decreased (74%; P = 0.05) and GnRH tended to reduce (75%; P = 0.07) the proportion of multiparous Holstein cows returning to estrus compared with CON (86%). Cows treated with hCG had a longer (P < 0.01) estrous cycle length (24.6 ± 0.3 d, Holstein; 23.0 ± 0.3 d, Jersey) compared with CON cows (22.7 ± 0.3 d, Holstein; 21.3 ± 0.3 d Jersey) and GnRH (22.9 ± 0.3 d, Holstein; 21.1 ± 0.3 d Jersey). The percentage of cows with high (≥80) peak activity and heat index did not differ (P > 0.50) between treatments, and milk production did not affect (P > 0.65) the duration of estrus. Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was not affected by treatments in Holstein (P = 0.93; CON: 34.3%, GnRH: 35.4%, and hCG: 31.5%) and in multiparous Jersey cows (P = 0.35; CON: 34.3%, GnRH: 35.4%, and hCG: 31.5%), but hCG had greater (P = 0.03; 55%) P/AI than GnRH (30.0%) and a trend (P = 0.06) for greater P/AI than CON (33.3%) in primiparous Jersey cows. In summary, inducing the formation of an accessory corpus luteum from d 5 to 7 of the estrous cycle with hCG reduced expression of estrus in multiparous Holstein cows. Moreover, hCG increased estrous cycle length in Holstein and Jersey cows, and it did not affect first service P/AI at 37 ± 3 d post-AI in Holstein and multiparous Jersey lactating cows. However, hCG increased P/AI in primiparous Jersey cows. Future research with a larger number of cows is needed to confirm these intriguing fertility results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago O Cunha
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
| | - Walter Martinez
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension, Tulare, CA, 93274, USA
| | - Emil Walleser
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA
| | - João Paulo N Martins
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, 53706, USA.
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35
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Lynch C, Oliveira Junior GA, Schenkel FS, Baes CF. Effect of synchronized breeding on genetic evaluations of fertility traits in dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:11820-11831. [PMID: 34454750 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrus detection has become more difficult over the years due to decreases in the estrus expression of high-producing dairy cows, and increased herd sizes and animal density. Through the use of hormonal synchronization protocols, also known as timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocols, it is possible to alleviate some of the challenges associated with estrus detection. However, TAI masks cows' fertility performance, resulting in an unfair comparison of treated animals and innately fertile animals. Consequently, genetically inferior and superior cows show similar phenotypes, making it difficult to distinguish between them. As genetic programs rely on the collection of accurate phenotypic data, phenotypes collected on treated animals likely add bias to genetic evaluations. In this study, to assess the effect of TAI, the rank correlation of bulls for a given trait using only TAI records were compared with the same trait using only heat detection records. A total of 270,434 records from 192,539 animals split across heifers, first and second parity cows were analyzed for the traits: calving to first service, first service to conception, and days open. Results showed large reranking across all traits and parities between bulls compared based on either having only TAI records or only heat detection records, suggesting that a bias does indeed exist. Large reranking was also observed for both the heat detection and TAI groups among the top 100 bulls in the control group, which included all records. Furthermore, breeding method was added to the model to assess its effect on bull ranking. However, there were only minor changes in the rank correlations between scenario groups. Therefore, more complex methods to account for the apparent bias created by TAI should be investigated; for this, the method by which these data are collected needs to be improved through creating a standardized way of recording breeding codes. Though the results of this study suggest the presence of bias within current fertility evaluations, additional research is required to confirm the findings of this study, including looking at high-reliability bulls specifically, to determine if the levels of reranking remain. Future studies should also aim to understand the potential genetic differences between the fertility traits split via management technology, possibly in a multiple-trait analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lynch
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - G A Oliveira Junior
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - F S Schenkel
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - C F Baes
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Institute of Genetics, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, University of Bern, Bern, 3001, Switzerland.
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Plasma concentrations of progesterone in the preceding estrous cycle are associated with the intensity of estrus and fertility of Holstein cows. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248453. [PMID: 34370740 PMCID: PMC8351919 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the association between concentrations of progesterone (P4) during previous the estrous cycle with the intensity of spontaneous or estrogen-induced estrous expression and pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI). A total of 1,953 AI events from lactating Holstein cows were used, consisting of 1,289 timed AI events from experiment 1 (Exp. 1) and 664 AI events from experiment 2 (Exp. 2). In Exp. 1, cows were bred after a timed AI protocol based on estradiol and P4. In Exp. 2 animals were bred upon spontaneous estrus detection. In both experiments cows were continuously monitored by an automated activity monitor (AAM), in Exp.1 a relative increase of activity was calculated (i.e., percentage of increase activity at estrus compared to cow's baseline activity) and in Exp.2, activity data from each cow were computed into an index value that ranged from 0 to 100. In Exp.2 duration (hours) of estrus were calculated and defined as the total time above the threshold (35 index). The intensity of estrous expression was determined for each event and classified as either high or low intensity using the median of each experiment. Blood samples were collected for P4 analysis in Exp. 1 at -4 d, 0 d, and 7 d relative to timed AI, and in Exp. 2 immediately following estrus (0 d), 7 d, 14 d, and 21 d post-AI. Concentration of P4 was classified as greater or lower according to the median value in each experiment. Cows with lower concentrations of P4 at AI had greater estrous expression in Exp. 1 (363.6 ± 5.2 vs. 275.9 ± 8.0% relative increase) and Exp. 2 (76.7 ± 1.9 vs. 67.4 ± 4.7 index; and 12.5 ± 0.5 vs. 9.3 ± 1.8 hours). Cows with a greater intensity of estrous expression at timed AI had greater concentrations of P4 at -4 d than cows with lower intensity estrus or no estrous expression (4.6 ± 0.2 vs. 3.6 ± 0.2 vs. 3.7 ± 0.2 ng/mL). Cows with greater concentrations of P4 at -4 d had greater P/AI (32.8 ± 4.4 vs. 22.4 ± 4.5%), whereas cows with lesser concentrations of P4 at d0 for either timed AI (35.2 ± 3.4 vs. 19.6 ± 4.6%) or spontaneous estrus (31.8 ± 2.8 vs. 23.4 ± 3.2%) had greater P/AI. Cows with greater concentrations of P4 7 d post-timed AI had greater P/AI compared with cows that had lower concentration of P4 (39.1 ± 2.9 vs. 24.7 ± 2.6%). Similarly, cows that had lower concentrations of P4 at 7 d, 14 d and 21 d post-spontaneous estrus tended to have lower P/AI when compared with cows with greater concentrations of P4. Overall, concentrations of P4 prior to and at AI were associated with greater estrous intensity and P/AI at both spontaneous and timed AI events.
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Stevenson JS. Daily activity measures and milk yield immediately before and after a fertile estrus and during the period of expected return to estrus after insemination in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:11277-11290. [PMID: 34275627 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20325] [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: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to characterize changes in milk yield and other physical measures during a 7-d periestrual period encompassing estrus (d 0) and during a 16-d period of expected return to estrus beginning at d 17 after artificial insemination (AI) until pregnancy status was determined on d 32. Lactating dairy cows milked thrice daily were fitted with CowManager SensOor ear tags (Agis) capable of assessing real-time eating, rumination, resting, high activity (estrus), ear-surface temperature, and heat alerts. Data were uploaded to the cloud, downloaded daily into Excel (Microsoft Corp.) spreadsheets, averaged to produce daily means for each activity, and analyzed as repeated measures relative to estrus or to d 17 after AI. Daily milk was unchanged during the periestrual period but was greater in nonpregnant cows that failed to return to estrus (NP-NR) during d 21 through 26 compared with NP cows that returned to estrus (NP-R) and pregnant (PREG) cows during that same period. Daily ear-surface temperature was greater during d 1 to 3 compared with d 0 and averaged 0.6 to 1.7°C greater from d 17 through 32 in NP-NR cows compared with NP-R and PREG cows. Daily rumination and resting times reached nadirs on d 0, with decreases occurring 48 h before estrus. Both rumination and resting times increased by 25 or 81% on the day after estrus, respectively. Rumination and resting times were less in NP-R cows during d 22 through 26 compared with NP-NR and PREG cows. In contrast, daily eating time was greatest on the day of estrus compared with 3 d before and after estrus. The NP-R cows spent more time eating during d 17 through 32 compared with NP-NR and PREG cows. High activity increased by 97% during 48 h before estrus, peaked at estrus, and decreased to a constant level during d 1 through 3. The NP-R cows had greater high activity on d 22 through 26 compared with NP-NR and PREG cows. We conclude that resting and rumination activity decreased to daily nadirs, whereas eating and high activity peaked on the day of estrus. Fertile estrus was associated with 12% greater high activity, 11% less resting time, and 6% less rumination time. In addition, cows that returned to estrus after AI had greater daily eating and high activity times and less rumination and resting time during the period of expected return to estrus after AI compared with pregnant cows and cows failing to return to estrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey S Stevenson
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-0201.
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Macmillan K, Gobikrushanth M, Plastow G, Colazo M. Natural versus induced estrus indicators of Holstein heifers determined by an automated activity monitoring system. Livest Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2021.104514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Schilkowsky EM, Granados GE, Sitko EM, Masello M, Perez MM, Giordano JO. Evaluation and characterization of estrus alerts and behavioral parameters generated by an ear-attached accelerometer-based system for automated detection of estrus. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:6222-6237. [PMID: 33685699 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Our objectives were to evaluate the performance of an ear-attached automated estrus detection (AED) system (Smartbow; Zoetis) that monitored physical activity and rumination time, and to characterize AED system estrus alert features (i.e., timing and duration). Lactating Holstein cows (n = 216) commenced a protocol for the synchronization of estrus at 50 ± 3 DIM or 18 ± 3 d after artificial insemination. For 7 d after induction of luteolysis with PGF2α (d 0), we used visual observation of estrous behavior (30 min, 2 times per day) and data from an automated mounting behavior monitoring system based on a pressure-activated tail-head sensor (HeatWatch; Cowchips LLC) as a reference test (RTE) to detect behavioral estrus. Concomitantly, estrus alerts and their features were collected from the AED system. Progesterone levels confirmed luteal regression, and transrectal ultrasonography confirmed the occurrence and timing of ovulation. Performance metrics for the AED system were estimated with PROC FREQ in SAS, using the RTE or ovulation only as a reference. Performance was also estimated after the removal of cows with a discrepancy between the RTE and ovulation. Continuous outcomes with or without repeated measurements were evaluated by ANOVA using PROC MIXED in SAS. Based on the RTE, 86.6% (n = 187) of the cows presented estrus and ovulated; 1.4% (n = 3) presented estrus and did not ovulate; 6.4% (n = 14) did not present estrus but ovulated; and 5.6% (n = 12) did not present estrus or ovulation. We found no difference in the proportion of cows detected in estrus and with ovulation for the AED system (83.4%) and the RTE (86.6%). Compared with estrus events as detected by the RTE, sensitivity for the AED was 91.6% (95% CI: 87.6-95.5) and specificity was 69.2% (95% CI: 51.5-87.0). Using ovulation as reference, sensitivity was 89.6% (95% CI: 85.3-93.8) and specificity was 86.7% (95% CI 69.5-100). For all cows with agreement between the RTE and ovulation, sensitivity was 92.5% (95% CI: 88.7-96.3) and specificity was 91.7% (95% CI: 76.0-100). The mean (±SD) interval from induction of luteolysis to estrus alerts, estrus alert duration, and the onset of estrus alerts to ovulation interval were 72.2 ± 18.1, 13.5 ± 3.8, and 23.8 ± 7.1 h, respectively. We concluded that an ear-attached AED system that monitored physical activity and rumination time was effective at detecting cows in estrus and generated few false positive alerts when accounting for ovulation, cow physiological limitations, and the limitations of the RTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Schilkowsky
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - G E Granados
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - E M Sitko
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M Masello
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M M Perez
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - J O Giordano
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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Tippenhauer CM, Plenio JL, Madureira AML, Cerri RLA, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S. Factors associated with estrous expression and subsequent fertility in lactating dairy cows using automated activity monitoring. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:6267-6282. [PMID: 33663844 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this observational study was to identify factors associated with estrous duration (DU) and intensity measured as the peak of activity (PA) change and subsequent fertility in lactating Holstein cows using a neck-mounted automated activity monitor (Heatime Pro, SCR Engineers Ltd., Netanya, Israel). Ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded hourly to calculate the temperature-humidity index (THI). A total of 5,933 estrus events from 3,132 cows located on 8 commercial dairy farms in Germany were used for this study. Farms participated in monthly DHIA testing. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed either by transrectal palpation [farm 1: 42 ± 3 d; farm 3: 40 ± 3 d; farms 4 and 8: 38 ± 3 d; farm 5: 43 ± 3 d after artificial insemination (AI)] or transrectal ultrasonography (farms 2, 6, and 7: 30 ± 3 d after AI). Estrous intensity was categorized based on peak activity of estrus into low (35-89 index value), and high (90-100 index value) PA. Overall, 73.5% of estrus events were of high PA. The mean (± standard error of the mean) DU was 14.94 ± 0.06 h. There was a strong correlation between DU and PA (r = 0.67). In the final statistical model, only PA was associated with pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI), with 1.35 greater odds of pregnancy for cows with high PA compared with cows with low PA. Increased THI 1 wk before AI was associated with shorter DU, lower PA, and decreased P/AI. A small percentage of cows (4.7%) showed short interestrus intervals (i.e., more than 1 activity peak within 7 d close to the event of estrus), resulting in reduced DU, PA, and P/AI. The change of weighted rumination was associated with DU and PA, as a lower nadir was associated with a greater risk for high PA and long DU. There was no association, however, between the nadir of change of weighted rumination and P/AI. Whereas milk yield and somatic cell count from the DHIA test date before AI were negatively associated with estrous expression, neither milk yield nor somatic cell count was associated with P/AI. Surprisingly, multiparous cows expressed estrus with longer DU (13.15 ± 0.31 h) compared with primiparous cows (12.52 ± 0.32 h), whereas PA did not differ among parities. Pregnancy per AI was greater for primiparous (29.4%) than for multiparous (22.1%) cows. An estrus event with long DU or high PA was more likely later in lactation. Milk fat, milk protein, milk urea nitrogen, and lactose from the DHIA test date closest to AI had no association with estrous expression or P/AI. In conclusion, DU and PA were highly correlated, and cows with high PA were particularly associated with greater odds for pregnancy. A negative association between estrous expression and P/AI was identified for increased THI 1 wk before AI and cows with short interestrus intervals using automated activity monitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Tippenhauer
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - J-L Plenio
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - A M L Madureira
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany.
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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Moore S, Hamilton S, Molina-Coto R, Mayo L, Rodrigues R, Leiva T, Poock S, Lucy M. Reproductive performance of early- and late-calving dairy cows artificially inseminated after ovulation synchronization and estrous resynchronization or artificially inseminated after observed estrus. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 2:80-85. [PMID: 36338776 PMCID: PMC9623741 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2020-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Late-calving cows had lesser fertility than cows that calved early in the calving season An Ovsynch program with progesterone (P4) improved reproductive performance for both early- and late-calving cows A Resynch program based on P4 supplementation alone and AI after detected estrus failed to improve second AI submission rates
Within seasonal dairy systems, cows that calve late in the calving season are less likely to become pregnant and maintain a yearly calving interval. Very few studies have examined effective strategies for reproductive management of these late-calving cows. The objectives were to evaluate the reproductive performance of early- and late-calving dairy cows that were either inseminated after observed estrus (control) or enrolled in a timed AI and resynchronization protocol [progesterone (P4) Ovsynch Resynch)]. Early-calving cows calved during the first week of the calving season, whereas late-calving cows calved after 6 wk but were at least 10 d in milk at study commencement. Three dairy herds participated in the study with 391 cows total. Within each calving group, cows were randomly assigned to P4 Ovsynch Resynch or control (no treatment) in a 2 × 2 experimental design. Artificial insemination continued for 6 wk after mating start date (MSD) and was followed by 6 wk of natural service. The interval from MSD to AI was shorter (11.7 vs. 14.7 d) and the 3-wk pregnancy rate (49.5 vs. 21.2%) and the 6-wk pregnancy rate (60.8 vs. 42.4%) were greater in the early-calving compared with the late-calving control cows. By design, synchronized cows received timed AI on MSD and were not included in the statistical analysis of submission rate and interval from MSD to AI. The proportion of cows that received a second AI was not increased by the progesterone-based resynchronization strategy but was greater in early-calving compared with late-calving cows. The 12-wk pregnancy rate was greater (64.5 vs. 45.0%) in the early-calving synchronized cows compared with the late-calving synchronized cows. The interval from MSD to pregnancy was 6 and 12.6 d shorter for synchronized compared with control cows in the early- and late-calving groups, respectively. The results demonstrated reduced reproductive performance of late-calving cows compared with early-calving cows. Nonetheless, a major improvement to reproductive performance was achieved by targeting late-calving cows with a synchronization program, even when cows were only 20 to 50 DIM at first AI. Resynchronization of estrus with a progesterone device only, however, was not sufficient to increase the proportion of nonpregnant cows that received a second AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- S.G. Moore
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - S.A. Hamilton
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - R. Molina-Coto
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - L.M. Mayo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - R.O. Rodrigues
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - T. Leiva
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - S.E. Poock
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - M.C. Lucy
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
- Corresponding author
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Tippenhauer CM, Plenio JL, Madureira AML, Cerri RLA, Heuwieser W, Borchardt S. Timing of artificial insemination using fresh or frozen semen after automated activity monitoring of estrus in lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:3585-3595. [PMID: 33455771 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this observational experiment was to determine the association between the time of artificial insemination (AI) and pregnancy per AI (P/AI) in lactating Holstein cows inseminated with either fresh or frozen semen considering different characteristics of an estrus event (i.e., onset, peak, and end) using an automated activity monitoring system. A total of 3,607 AI services based on the alert of an automated activity monitoring system (Heatime; SCR Engineers Ltd., Netanya, Israel) were evaluated from 4 commercial dairy farms in Germany. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by transrectal palpation 38 ± 3 d after AI or by transrectal ultrasonography 30 ± 3 d after AI. Estrus intensity was categorized based on peak activity of estrus (PAE) into low (35-89 index value) and high (90-100 index value) intensity. The mean (± standard deviation) duration of an estrus event was 14.3 ± 4.6 h. The mean (± standard deviation) interval from onset of estrus (OE; moment where index value was ≥35) to AI was 16.8 ± 8.0 h, from PAE to AI was 11.9 ± 8.1 h, and from end of estrus (EE; moment where index value returned to <35) to AI was 2.5 ± 8.7 h. Primiparous cows had greater P/AI than multiparous cows, whereas first AI postpartum yielded greater P/AI compared with subsequent AI services. Type of semen was not associated with P/AI. Cows with heat stress 1 wk before AI had decreased P/AI. Cows with low estrus intensity (26.0%) were less fertile compared with cows showing high estrus intensity (32.8%). Cows with intermediate 100-d milk yield had decreased P/AI compared with cows with either low or high 100-d milk yield. There was a quadratic effect of the interval from OE to AI on P/AI. At 38 d after AI, P/AI was greatest for cows inseminated from 7 to 24 h after OE, within 18 h after PAE, or from 5 h before EE to 12 h after EE. There was no interaction between the interval from OE to AI and type of semen. There tended to be an interaction between the intervals from PAE to AI and type of semen and from EE to AI and type of semen. Cows inseminated with fresh semen within 5 h before EE had greater P/AI compared with frozen semen, whereas cows inseminated with frozen semen from 13 to 18 h after EE had greater P/AI compared with fresh semen. In conclusion, inseminating cows from 7 to 24 h after OE or 1 to 18 h after PAE yielded greatest P/AI irrespective of type of semen. In addition, high estrus intensity was positively associated with P/AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Tippenhauer
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - J-L Plenio
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - A M L Madureira
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - R L A Cerri
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - W Heuwieser
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany.
| | - S Borchardt
- Clinic of Animal Reproduction, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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Tian H, Liu J, Chen X, Li S, Li X, Mengal K, Lu Y, Wang D. Effects of ambient temperature and humidity on body temperature and activity of heifers, and a novel idea of heat stress monitoring. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an20156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context
Heat stress has led to a serious reduction in dairy cows production performance, thus increasing the stress of feeding and reproduction management.
Aims
Heat stress arises when cows are unable to dissipate excess body heat, we aimed to investigate the effects of ambient temperature (AT) and humidity on diurnal body temperature and activity.
Methods
For improving the technology for rearing dairy cows, the vaginal temperature (VT) and activity of 60 Holstein heifers in summer (n = 20), autumn (n = 20), and winter (n = 20) were measured using the oestrus monitoring system.
Key results
We found that VT fluctuated slightly (~38.22–38.32°C) when AT and temperature-humidity index (THI) were lower than 20°C and 68, respectively. However, when this threshold is reached, VT increased significantly with increasing AT and THI, whereas activity decreased significantly.
Conclusions
Heat stress may be caused when THI is above 68 and cow’s VT reaches 38.32°C. Evidently, when the THI exceeds 68 and VT is more than 38.32°C, suitable measures for reducing the effect of heat stress on the productivity of dairy cows should be taken.
Implications
The combined monitoring of VT and THI might provide accurate guidance for preventing and controlling heat stress.
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Burnett TA, Kaur M, Polsky L, Cerri RLA. Rumen-Reticular Temperature During Estrus and Ovulation Using Automated Activity Monitors in Dairy Cows. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:597512. [PMID: 33392289 PMCID: PMC7772321 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.597512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine changes in rumen-reticular temperature (RRT) at estrus or ovulation and determine if these changes are associated with the intensity of estrous expression. Cows were equipped with an automated activity monitor (AAM) and a rumen-reticular bolus thermometer. A total of 190 estrus episodes were used where physical activity data was recorded using the AAM and ovulation was determined via ultrasonography of the ovaries at alert and twice daily, for a maximum of 60 h. Estrous expression was assessed using the maximum activity and duration in which activity remained above the AAM threshold; both characteristics were categorized using the median. Temperature data was collected for the duration of estrus, as well as for the interval of time where ovulation was determined to occur. Three measures of temperature were calculated: (1) positive area under the curve (AUC), (2) maximum positive temperature change (PTC), (3) maximum negative temperature change (NTC) at estrus (AUCE/ PTCE/ NTCE) and around ovulation (AUCO/PTCO/ NTCO). Both AUC and PTC were greater during estrus than around ovulation (2.7 ± 0.2 and 1.1 ± 0.3°C2 for AUCE and AUCO; 0.55 ± 0.03 and 0.26 ± 0.04°C for PTCE and PTCO, respectively). In contrast, NTC was lower around ovulation than estrus (-0.28 ± 0.05 and -0.60 ± 0.06°C for NTCE and NTCO). Cows with greater estrous expression had greater AUC and PTC during estrus than around ovulation, but cows with lesser estrous expression had similar AUC and PTC. Increases in AUC [High THI (Temperature Humidity Index): High activity: 4.7 ± 0.5, Low activity: 1.5 ± 0.4; Low THI: High activity: 3.1 ± 0.2, Low activity: 1.4 ± 0.2 °C2] and PTC (High THI: High activity: 0.79 ± 0.08, Low activity: 0.36 ± 0.07; Low THI: High activity: 0.60 ± 0.04, Low activity: 0.47 ± 0.04°C) associated with estrous expression were found to be greater on days with higher THI. Alerts created using standard deviations from the mean were unable to detect estrus or ovulation with acceptable precision. Further research is required to determine how changes in RRT can be used successfully to predict estrus and ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Burnett
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Manveen Kaur
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liam Polsky
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ronaldo L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Kumro FG, Smith FM, Yallop MJ, Ciernia LA, Caldeira MO, Moraes JGN, Poock SE, Lucy MC. Short communication: Simultaneous measurements of estrus behavior and plasma concentrations of estradiol during estrus in lactating and nonlactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2020; 104:2445-2454. [PMID: 33246615 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrus is an important behavior that can potentially be subjected to genomic selection. Circulating estradiol concentrations at estrus may be a useful phenotype if the absolute concentrations of estradiol are associated with overt phenotypes for estrus (activity, rump touches, or both; e.g., mounts, chinrests) that can be easily observed. The objective was to measure plasma estradiol concentrations at estrus and associate these measurements with the increase in activity (steps per hour) and rump touches received at estrus. We also tested the effect of lactation on the estrus traits that we measured. Cows (n = 11 lactating and n = 9 nonlactating) were treated with PGF2α to synchronize estrus. A jugular vein was cannulated to collect blood every 2 h for plasma estradiol measurement. Plasma LH was measured during the periestrual period to determine the time of the LH surge. Cows were fitted with an accelerometer to measure activity (steps per hour) and a capacitive touch sensing device to measure the number of rump touches and total touch time. Plasma estradiol concentrations were poorly correlated with overt signs of estrus during the period leading up to maximum estrus activity. After peak estrus activity (when cows were going out of estrus and plasma estradiol concentrations were decreasing), a stronger correlation was detected between overt signs of estrus and plasma estradiol concentrations. Effective selection for improved estrus expression based on plasma estradiol concentrations will depend on whether the cow is coming into or going out of estrus at the time of blood sampling. An association existed between lactation and fewer number of hours in estrus when estrus was defined by an increase in activity (steps per hour). Lactating cows had a shorter interval from the onset of estrus to the LH surge, and the shorter interval to the LH surge may have reduced the period of elevated estradiol during estrus in the lactating cows. Understanding mechanisms that control the sensitivity of the cow to estradiol and making appropriate selection decisions based on these mechanisms will likely increase overt signs of estrus in dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- F G Kumro
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - F M Smith
- Farmshed Labs Limited, Hamilton, New Zealand 3216
| | - M J Yallop
- Farmshed Labs Limited, Hamilton, New Zealand 3216
| | - L A Ciernia
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - M O Caldeira
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - J G N Moraes
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - S E Poock
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - M C Lucy
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211.
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Kumro FG, Smith FM, Yallop MJ, Ciernia LA, Mayo LM, Poock SE, Lamberson WR, Lucy MC. Estimates of intra- and interclass correlation coefficients for rump touches and the number of steps during estrus in postpartum cows. J Dairy Sci 2020; 104:2318-2333. [PMID: 33246610 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrus traits have economic value in dairy production systems and could be incorporated into genetic selection indices. In an effort to further understand selection responses, 2 studies were performed to estimate the intra- and interclass correlation coefficients for estrus traits. Holstein-Friesian cows (n = 1,197; study 1) across 5 pasture-based grazing dairy herds were fitted with a capacitive touch sensing (CTS) device on the rump (FlashMate, Farmshed Labs Limited, Hamilton, New Zealand). The daily number of rump touches were subjected to a peak detection program to objectively identify periods of increased rump touches above baseline (indicative of estrus). The number of times touched and the sum of the touch duration were used to compare farms and estimate the intraclass correlation (repeatability). For study 2, postpartum Holstein (n = 85) and Guernsey (n = 5) cows in a confinement-style dairy were used. Cows were fitted with an IceQube accelerometer (IceRobotics Ltd., Edinburgh, United Kingdom) to measure steps taken per hour and a CTS device was applied to both rumps. The interclass correlation for the number of rump touches and number of steps taken during estrus was calculated. Data collected from 5 herds (study 1) demonstrated a 2- to 3-fold difference between herds in the number of rump touches and total touch time during estrus. The intraclass correlation (repeatability; estimates of maximum heritability) for rump touches during estrus was 0.22. For study 2, the number of steps and the number of rump touches during estrus increased in a synchronous manner. The intraclass correlation (repeatability) for number of steps during estrus was 0.26. The interclass correlation (r) for the number of rump touches and the number of steps was 0.46 (R2 = 0.21). Based on the R2, at least 20% of the variation in the number of steps during estrus was explained by the number of touches to the rump of the cow. Selecting cows for the number of steps taken during estrus could increase the number of rump touches (mounts, chin rests, and so on, received from other cows) if a genetic correlation exists for the phenotypic correlation that we observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- F G Kumro
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - F M Smith
- Farmshed Labs Limited, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
| | - M J Yallop
- Farmshed Labs Limited, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
| | - L A Ciernia
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - L M Mayo
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - S E Poock
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - W R Lamberson
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211
| | - M C Lucy
- Division of Animal Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211.
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47
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Cerri RLA, Burnett TA, Madureira AML, Silper BF, Denis-Robichaud J, LeBlanc S, Cooke RF, Vasconcelos JLM. Symposium review: Linking activity-sensor data and physiology to improve dairy cow fertility. J Dairy Sci 2020; 104:1220-1231. [PMID: 33189287 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that the intensity of estrous expression is associated with ovulation, ovarian and uterine function, and fertility, and is dependent on social hierarchy and the housing system used. Data from recent studies involving spontaneous and induced estrus have shown that a greater relative increase and longer estrus (captured by different automated activity monitors; AAM) are both associated with improved pregnancy per artificial insemination (AI; around 10 to 14% increase) and decreased pregnancy losses. Intensity and duration of estrus were surprisingly weakly associated with preovulatory follicle diameter and concentrations of plasma estradiol at estrus, whereas ovulation failure was associated with low estrus intensity. Studies have also shown that the display of estrous behavior near AI was associated with the modification of expression of genes related to the immune system, adhesion molecules, and prostaglandin synthesis in the endometrium. Transcripts in leukocytes and in the conceptus tissue associated with maternal recognition of pregnancy as well as conceptus elongation were all associated with differences in the intensity of estrous expression. Most recently, studies from the United States and Canada have demonstrated that reproductive programs emphasizing detection of estrus using AAM can be successful and comparable to intensive timed AI protocol-based programs that incorporate GnRH and PGF2α treatments. Further, one study concluded that the administration of GnRH at AI for spontaneous estrus events greatly improved pregnancy per AI, but only for cows with reduced intensity of estrous expression, showing the potential to use AAM data as a tool in targeted reproductive programs. Quantitative information from estrus events could be used to improve estrus detection and develop decision-making strategies at the farm level. Future studies in this field should aim to better understand ovarian, conceptus, and endometrial mechanisms associated with either the expression or the intensity of estrus, and to refine the identification of phenotypes related to estrus (relative increase, absolute increase, baseline levels, duration, and repeatability within cow) to improve data usage, estrus detection, and possibly genetic selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L A Cerri
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.
| | - T A Burnett
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - A M L Madureira
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - B F Silper
- Applied Animal Biology, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4
| | - J Denis-Robichaud
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - S LeBlanc
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - R F Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station 77843
| | - J L M Vasconcelos
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil, 18160-000
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Guner B, Erturk M, Yilmazbas-Mecitoglu G, Keskin A, Karakaya-Bilen E, Cakircali R, Serim E, Orman A, Gumen A. Effect of delaying the time of insemination with sex-sorted semen on pregnancy rate in Holstein heifers. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1411-1417. [PMID: 32744337 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the interval from onset of oestrus to time of artificial insemination (AI) to obtain the optimum pregnancy rate with sex-sorted semen in Holstein heifers. Heifers in oestrus were detected and inseminated only by using heat-rumination neck collar comprised electronic identification tag at the age of 13-14 months. Heifers (n = 283) were randomly assigned to one of three groups according to the timing of insemination at 12-16 hr (G1, n = 97), at 16.1-20 hr (G2, n = 94) and at 20.1-24 hr (G3, n = 92) after reaching the activity threshold. The mean duration of oestrus was 18.6 ± 0.1 hr, and mean peak activity was found at 7.5 ± 0.1 hr after activity threshold. The mean interval from activity threshold to ovulation was 29.4 ± 0.4 hr. The overall pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was 53.0% at 29-35 days and 50.9% at 60-66 days after AI. There was a significant reduction between G1 (13.8 ± 1.4 hr) and G3 (7.9 ± 1.4 hr) related to the intervals from AI to ovulation time. Sex-sorted semen resulted in significantly higher P/AI at 29-35 days when heifers inseminated in G3 (60.9%) after oestrus than those inseminated in G1 (49.5%) and G2 (48.9%). In terms of fertility, when the temperature-humidity index (THI) was below the threshold value (THI ≤65) at the time of AI, there was a tendency (≤65; 57.2% vs. > 65; 47.1%) for high pregnancy rate. There was no effect of sire on P/AI. In addition, the interaction of the technician with the time of AI was found significant, and three-way interaction of technician, sire and time of AI was tended to be significant on pregnancy rate. Thus, in addition to delaying the time of insemination (between 20.1 and 24 hr) after oestrous detection, THI and experienced technician were also found to be critical factors in increasing fertility with the use of sex-sorted semen in Holstein heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Guner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Balıkesir, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | | | - Gulnaz Yilmazbas-Mecitoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Abdulkadir Keskin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ebru Karakaya-Bilen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Siirt, Siirt, Turkey
| | - Rabia Cakircali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Enes Serim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Abdulkadir Orman
- Department of Zootechnics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Gumen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
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Pohler KG, Reese ST, Franco GA, Oliveira RV, Paiva R, Fernandez L, de Melo G, Vasconcelos JLM, Cooke R, Poole RK. New approaches to diagnose and target reproductive failure in cattle. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200057. [PMID: 33029221 PMCID: PMC7534570 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive failure and pregnancy loss in cattle are some of the largest economic burdens to cattle producers and one of most perplexing factors influencing management decisions. Pregnancy loss may occur at any point during gestation with the largest percentage of loss occurring in the first 30 days and, subsequently, decreasing as the pregnancy progresses. Losses may be attributed to numerous factors, predisposed issues or environmental conditions such as nutritional stressors or disease. From a research perspective, determining the exact causes of pregnancy loss or embryonic mortality in cattle have been difficult, due to limitations of accurately determining early gestation pregnancy status. Until methods that precisely determine embryo success early in gestation are available, our understanding of in vivo pregnancy loss will lack clarity necessary to develop management strategies to decrease such loss. In this review, we will briefly discuss the pivotal periods of pregnancy loss affecting beef and dairy cattle, methods and technologies to determine pregnancy status and embryo viability and potential opportunities to decrease reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ky Garrett Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Sydney Taylor Reese
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Gessica Araujo Franco
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ramiro Vander Oliveira
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Rafael Paiva
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Lohana Fernandez
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Gabriela de Melo
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | | | - Reinaldo Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Rebecca Kyle Poole
- Department of Animal Science, Pregnancy and Developmental Programming Area of Excellence, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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50
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Gómez E, Salvetti P, Gatien J, Muñoz M, Martín-González D, Carrocera S, Goyache F. Metabolomic Profiling of Bos taurus Beef, Dairy, and Crossbred Cattle: A Between-Breeds Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:8732-8743. [PMID: 32687347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c02129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Cattle breeds may differ substantially in their metabolism. However, the metabolomes of dairy and beef cattle are not well-known. Knowledge of breed-specific metabolic features is essential for biomarker identification and to adopt specific nutritional strategies. The muscle hypertrophy (mh), a beef cattle phenotype present in Asturiana de los Valles (AV) but absent in Asturiana de la Montaña (AM) and Holsteins, may underlie such differences. We compared the plasma metabolomes of Holstein, AV, AM, and crossbred cattle recipients selected for meta-analysis within an embryo transfer (ET) program. Blood samples were collected on day 0 (oestrus) and day 7 (prior to ET) (N = 234 samples × 2 days). Nuclear magnetic resonance quantified N = 36 metabolites in plasma, and more metabolic differences between breeds were found on day 0 (N = 19 regulated metabolites) than on day 7 (N = 5). AV and AM largely differed from Holstein cattle (N = 55 and 35 enriched metabolic pathways, respectively); however, AV and AM differed in N = 6 enriched pathways. Metabolic activity was higher in AV than in Holstein cattle, as explained in part by the mh phenotype. The metabolomic characterization of breeds facilitates biomarker research and helps to define the healthy ranges of metabolite concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gómez
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33300 Gijón, Spain
| | - P Salvetti
- Experimental Facilities, ALLICE, Le Perroi, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - J Gatien
- Experimental Facilities, ALLICE, Le Perroi, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - M Muñoz
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33300 Gijón, Spain
| | - D Martín-González
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33300 Gijón, Spain
| | - S Carrocera
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33300 Gijón, Spain
| | - F Goyache
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal, Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33300 Gijón, Spain
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