Search

Cis-acting effects of noncoding variants on gene expression and regulatory molecules constitute a significant factor for phenotypic variation in complex traits. To provide new insights into the impacts of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on transcription factors (TFs) and transcription cofactors (TcoF) coding genes, we carried out a multi-omic analysis to identify cis-regulatory effects of SNPs on these genes' expression in muscle and describe their association with feed efficiency-related traits in Nelore cattle. As a result, we identified one SNP, the rs137256008C > T, predicted to impact the EEF1A1 gene expression (β = 3.02; P-value = 3.51E-03) and the residual feed intake trait (β = − 3.47; P-value = 0.02). This SNP was predicted to modify transcription factor sites and overlaps with several QTL for feed efficiency traits. In addition, co-expression network analyses showed that animals containing the T allele of the rs137256008 SNP may be triggering changes in the gene network. Therefore, our analyses reinforce and contribute to a better understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying gene expression control of feed efficiency traits in bovines. The cis-regulatory SNP can be used as biomarker for feed efficiency in Nelore cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of roughage:concentrate (R:C) ratio associated with a variable particle size of physically effective neutral detergent fibre (peNDF8) in the forage (Tifton-85 hay) on the performance, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs. Seventy-two 4-month-old, non-castrated Santa Ines male lambs (23.5 ± 2.32 kg BW) were distributed in a completely randomized design, in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement [two peNDF8 hay particle sizes (13 and 6 mm) and two R:C ratios (700:300 and 500:500 g/kg DM total)]. DMI, DM, NFC and TDN digestibility's, N-intake and N-faecal excretion were affected by the R:C ratio (P < 0.05). However, the N-retained was not affected by the studied variables (P > 0.05). It was observed an interaction (P < 0.05) between the peNDF8 and R:C ratios for final BW, average daily gain (ADG), colour parameters and pH 24 h. The lower roughage ratio provided greater (P < 0.05) concentrations of C14:1, C16:1–cis9, C18:1–cis9, ΣMUFA, Σn–6:Σn–3 and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic index, enzymatic activity Δ9desaturase-C16 and -C18. Lambs fed a lower roughage diet had improved performance and feed efficiency, however, presented reduced polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) concentrations in the meat, especially Σn–3 family. Higher roughage diet and larger peNDF8 particle size improved the concentrations of PUFA while decreased Σn–6:Σn–3 ratio in meat. Larger peNDF8 particle size associated with higher roughage proportion, have reduced animal performance however, it increased protein concentration, a* and C* colour parameter without affecting fatty acids profile of Longissimus lumborum muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basic knowledge of species biology and ecology is essential for the assessment of species conservation status and planning for efficient conservation strategies; however, this information is not always readily available. Here we use movement behavior to understand the ecology and social biology of the poorly known southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus). We used VHF and GPS telemetry to monitor 26 individuals from two sites in the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil. We characterized armadillo activity patterns, evaluated the relationship between sex and body mass with home range size and mean daily distance traveled, and examined home and core range overlap. Three-banded armadillos were active on average for 5.5 ± 2.8 h/day, with most of their activity concentrated in the first half of the night. Adult males were heavier and had larger home ranges than adult females. Home range size scaled positively with body mass for males, but not for females. Core ranges for females overlapped little (< 1%) regardless of age, but home ranges for males overlapped both with other males (12%) and females (18%). Our data suggest that three-banded armadillos are mainly a nocturnal species. Home range and spacing patterns point to a generally asocial behavior and a polygynous or promiscuous mating system. We hope that the data generated as a result of this project will contribute to this species' conservation in Brazil and elsewhere by guiding future management and research efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was carried out to examine the effect of cottonseed processing and chitosan supplementation on lamb performance, digestibility and nitrogen digestion. Eighty uncastrated Santa Inês lambs (23 ± 2.2 kg average weight, 4 months old) were distributed in a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement that consisted of two cottonseed processing forms (whole or ground) and two chitosan levels (0 or 136 mg/kg live weight). Higher dry matter and organic matter apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) was achieved with the diets containing the whole cottonseed. Ether extract ADC was higher in the animals fed the chitosan-containing diet. There was an interaction effect on the ADC of neutral detergent fibre corrected for ash and protein, which increased with chitosan inclusion associated with the whole cottonseed. The lambs that received the treatment containing the whole cottonseed showed higher microbial protein synthesis. Chitosan addition increased nitrogen retention. The animals fed chitosan-containing diets showed higher microbial protein synthesis. There was an interaction effect on microbial protein synthesis. Whole cottonseed associated with chitosan in lamb diets increases ether extract ADC and microbial protein synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymorphisms in the growth hormone (GH) and IGF type-1 (IGF1) genes have been associated with the economic traits in farm animals, including BW of some sheep breeds. However, it remains unknown if these polymorphisms also affect carcass traits in sheep. Thus, we aimed to identify polymorphisms in the GH and IGF1 genes in Santa Ines sheep in order to describe their allelic and genotypic frequencies as well as to test the hypotheses that they are associated with the carcass traits. Fragments of 4550 bp (IGF1) and 1194 bp (GH) were sequenced in up to 191 lambs. In all, 18 polymorphisms were identified in the IGF1 and 21 in the GH gene. The IGF1 polymorphisms rs430457475 , rs412470350 , rs409110739 and rs400113576 showed an additive effect on the internal carcass length (−0.9265±0.4223), rump girth (−2.9285±1.1473), rib yield (−1.0003±0.4588) and neck weight (−0.0567±0.0278), respectively. In addition, the polymorphisms rs58957314 in the GH affected the rib weight (−0.4380±0.1272) and rib yield (−2.2680±0.6970), loin weight (−0.1893±0.0516) and loin yield (−0.9423±0.3259), palette weight (−0.2265±0.0779) and palette yield (−0.9424±0.4184), leg weight (−0.3960±0.1375), neck weight (−0.0851±0.0394) and carcass finishing score (−0.1700±0.0839). These results allow us to conclude that there are polymorphisms in the IGF1 and GH genes associated with carcass traits in Santa Ines sheep, which can provide important information for marker-assisted selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intake, digestibility, nitrogen (N) balance, microbial protein synthesis, weight gain, yields of the main commercial cuts and carcass morphometric measurements were evaluated in lambs fed diets containing different levels of chitosan. Sixty Santa Inês crossbred sheep with an average body weight (BW) of 24 ± 2.2 kg were assigned to three treatments (diets containing 0, 136 or 272 mg chitosan/kg BW) in a completely randomized design. There was no effect of chitosan on dry matter (DM) intake. Ingested and retained N showed a quadratic response, with the highest values estimated at the chitosan levels of 142 and 152 mg/kg BW, respectively. Similar to N balance, microbial protein synthesis showed the same quadratic response, in which the level of 136 mg/kg BW resulted in higher synthesis when compared with the other levels. No effect of chitosan was detected on average daily gain, final weight, or carcass variables (hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, yield of commercial cuts and morphometric measurements of the carcass). Conformation, visceral fat content and fatness of carcasses were also not altered by the use of chitosan. Chitosan improves the digestibility of DM, crude protein and neutral detergent fibre, and increases N balance and microbial protein synthesis but does not change the production performance of feedlot lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the health concerns and nutritional importance of fatty acids, there is a relative paucity of studies in the literature that report genetic or genomic parameters, especially in the case of sheep populations. To investigate the genetic architecture of fatty acid composition of sheep, we conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and estimated genomic heritabilities for fatty acid profile in Longissimus dorsi muscle of 216 male sheep. Results: Genomic heritability estimates for fatty acid content ranged from 0.25 to 0.46, indicating that substantial genetic variation exists for the evaluated traits. Therefore, it is possible to alter fatty acid profiles through selection. Twenty-seven genomic regions of 10 adjacent SNPs associated with fatty acids composition were identified on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, each explaining ≥0.30% of the additive genetic variance. Twenty-three genes supporting the understanding of genetic mechanisms of fat composition in sheep were identified in these regions, such as DGAT2, TRHDE, TPH2, ME1, C6, C7, UBE3D, PARP14, and MRPS30. Conclusions: Estimates of genomic heritabilities and elucidating important genomic regions can contribute to a better understanding of the genetic control of fatty acid deposition and improve the selection strategies to enhance meat quality and health attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in progesterone (P4) catabolism due to high feed intake underlie some effects of nutrition on reproduction. Based on previous research, we hypothesized that high feed intake could potentially increase P4 catabolism, likely due to increased liver blood flow. However, there could also be an opposing action due to increased circulating insulin, which has been shown to inhibit hepatic expression of key enzymes involved in P4 catabolism. To test which effect would have the greatest impact on circulating P4 during a 1- and 2 -mo time frame, we used a noncyclic ewe model. The plane of nutrition was controlled, and effects on circulating insulin, P4 catabolism in response to exogenous P4, and steady state mRNA for key hepatic enzymes were evaluated. Twentyfour F1 Dorper × Santa Inês ewe lambs (5 mo old and approximately 25 kg BW) were used. After 14 d of adaptation, ewes were randomized into 2 groups: ad libitum fed (Ad), with intake of 3.8% DM/kg BW, or restricted feed intake (R), with 2% DM/kg BW, for 8 wk. At wk 4 and 8, ewes received an intravaginal P4 implant to evaluate P4 catabolism. As designed, Ad ewes had greater daily feed intake than R ewes (means of 1.8 [SE 0.03] and 0.6 kg/ewe [SE 0.01]; P < 0.001) and greater weekly gain in BW (means of 1.7 [SE 0.12] vs. -0.1 kg/ewe [SE 0.03]; P < 0.001). Mean circulating insulin of samples collected from -0.5 to 7 h after the start of feeding was over 5-fold greater in Ad ewes than in R ewes (least squares means of 8.2 [SE 0.93] vs. 1.5 μIU/mL [SE 0.16], respectively, at wk 4 and 12.0 [SE 1.02] vs. 2.2 μIU/mL [SE 0.18], respectively, at wk 8; P < 0.001). Although both groups received the same P4 treatment, mean circulating P4 of samples collected from -0.5 to 7 h after feeding was much lower in Ad ewes than in R ewes (least squares means of 3.2 [SE 0.32] vs. 5.5 ng/mL [SE 0.32], respectively, at wk 4 and 2.8 [SE 0.28] vs. 5.2 ng/mL [SE 0.28], respectively, at wk 8; P < 0.001) indicating much greater P4 catabolism in ewes with high feed intake. Unexpectedly, there was no effect of diet on hepatic mRNA concentrations for CYP2C, CYP3A, AKR1C, or AKR1D at wk 4 or 8 in spite of dramatically elevated insulin. Therefore, high energy/feed intake primarily increased P4 catabolism with no evidence for offsetting effects due to insulin-induced changes in hepatic P4 metabolizing enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of partial replacement of corn in the starter feed with crude glycerin on performance and energy metabolism of liquid-fed dairy calves. Twenty-four newborn individually housed Holstein calves were blocked according to weight and date of birth and randomly assigned to different starter feed treatments during 8 weeks: no crude glycerin; 5% crude glycerin; 10% crude glycerin on dry matter basis. All calves were individually fed daily 4 L of a commercial milk replacer (22.3% crude protein and 19.3% fat). Calves had individual access to starter diet and ad libitum access to water daily. Individual feed intake and faecal scores were recorded daily. Bodyweight and corporal measurements (heart girth, hip width, and withers height) were weekly recorded. Fromthe second weekof age, blood samples were collected weekly, 2 h after morning feeding, for determination of plasma glucose and b-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Ruminal fluid was collected at 4, 6 and 8 weeks of age for determination of pH and short-chain fatty acids. At the end of the eighth week, animals were harvested to evaluate development of the proximal digestive tract. Feed intake, average daily gain, bodyweight or body measurements were not affected (P > 0.05) by the inclusion of crude glycerin in the starter feed. Faecal scores indicated that most of the calves had mild diarrhoea, with no treatment effect. Total shortchain fatty acids and the concentration of individual acids, as well as blood parameters, were not affected (P > 0.05) by the feed treatments. The total forestomach weight, the average weight of each compartment, themaximum capacity of reticulumrumen, and papillae number, height and width were not affected (P > 0.05). In conclusion, crude glycerin can be used as an alternative energy source, replacing corn up to 10% in the starter feed for liquid-fed dairy calves without affecting growth, rumen development or metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archivos de Zootecnia is the property of Archivos de Zootecnia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study screened for asymptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) by measuring calcium (Ca) before thyroid surgery. The study was prospective. A total of 676 patients without a suspicion of PHPT were studied. PHPT was defined as elevated Ca (in 2 measurements) in the presence of PTH > 25 pg/ml and in the absence of hypocalciuria. PHPT was diagnosed in 5 patients (0.74 %), all of them women. One of the 5 patients with PHPT had no indication for parathyroidectomy (PTx) according to current guidelines. Parathyroid adenoma was easily identified during perioperative assessment of thyroid surgery in 3 patients. In the other 2 patients (0.3 %), localization of the adenoma required specific exploration, which was only performed because of the preoperative diagnosis of PHPT. Normalization of Ca and PTH was achieved in all 5 patients. In conclusion, in patients without a clinical or ultrasonographic suspicion of PHPT, approximately 300 individuals should be screened before thyroid surgery to avoid one reoperation (PTx) due to PHPT, which does not seem to be cost-effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The myogenic differentiation 1 gene ( MYOD1) has a key role in skeletal muscle differentiation and composition through its regulation of the expression of several muscle-specific genes. We first used a general linear mixed model approach to evaluate the association of MYOD1 expression levels on individual beef tenderness phenotypes. MYOD1 mRNA levels measured by quantitative polymerase chain reactions in 136 Nelore steers were significantly associated ( P ≤ 0.01) with Warner-Bratzler shear force, measured on the longissimus dorsi muscle after 7 and 14 days of beef aging. Transcript abundance for the muscle regulatory gene MYOD1 was lower in animals with more tender beef. We also performed a co-expression network analysis using whole transcriptome sequence data generated from 30 samples of longissimus muscle tissue to identify genes that are potentially regulated by MYOD1. The effect of MYOD1 gene expression on beef tenderness may emerge from its function as an activator of muscle-specific gene transcription such as for the serum response factor (C-fos serum response element-binding transcription factor) gene ( SRF), which determines muscle tissue development, composition, growth and maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of tumbling with brines on different portions of the biceps femoris muscle was evaluated for the quality of beef from Bos indicus cattle older than 30 mo. Six biceps femoris muscles were divided into portions: origin (OP), insertion 1(IP1), and insertion 2 (IP2). The portions were sliced into steaks and were treated with no tumbling (control), tumbling with brine (BR), and tumbling with brine and hydrolyzed soy protein (BR+HSP). The steaks were vacuum packaged and stored for 1 and 12 d and then analyzed for pH, yield, color, cooking loss, and shear force. The control steaks from the OP had higher (P < 0.05) pH and shear force values and lower (P < 0.05) L* values than the control steaks from IP2. The pH and a* and b* values increased (P < 0.05) and the L* values and cooking loss decreased (P < 0.05) when the steaks were tumbled with BR and BR+HSP. Overall, substantial variation was found for the variables among the different portions of the biceps femoris muscle. Based on the lower lightness (low exudation) and greater yellow and red intensity (less oxidation) of the meat, the tumbling with brines improved the meat quality. However, the hydrolyzed soy protein incorporated into the brine did not increase the effect compared with using the brine alone for most of the variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camera traps were set up in forest nests in 2009, 2010 and 2012 to capture images of possible predators eating eggs of the Pantanal caiman,Caiman crocodilus yacare. We monitored 57 caiman nests; 42 nests were opened and the eggs were counted (mean = 25 eggs/nest, SD = 4.3). Females were present and captured at 38 of those nests. The remaining 15 nests were used as controls, and we did not capture the females or open the egg cavities of these nests. Most of the nests had the eggs eaten by predators, in both the disturbed group (38 nests) and the control group (13 nests). The main predators were carnivorous mammals, such as crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous), coatis (Nasua nasua) and tayras (Eira barbara), although feral pigs (Sus scrofa) and armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus) were also photographed eating caiman eggs. The lizardSalvator merianaewas photographed eating eggs of two nests. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The inclusion of genetic groups in sire evaluation has been widely used to represent genetic differences among animals not accounted for by the absence of parentage data. However, the definition of these groups is still arbitrary, and studies assessing the effects of genetic grouping strategies on the selection efficiency are rare. Therefore, the aim in this study was to compare genetic grouping strategies for animals with unknown parentage in prediction of breeding values (EBV). The total of 179,302 records of weaning weight (WW), 29,825 records of scrotal circumference (SC), and 70,302 records of muscling score (MUSC) from Montana Tropical animals, a Brazilian composite beef cattle population, were used. Genetic grouping strategies involving year of birth, sex of the unknown parent, birth farm, breed composition, and their combinations were evaluated. Estimated breeding values were predicted for each approach simulating a loss of genealogy data. Thereafter, these EBV were compared to those obtained in an analysis involving a real relationship matrix to estimate selection efficiency and correlations between EBV and animal rankings. The analysis model included the fixed effects of contemporary groups and class of the dam age at calving, the covariates of additive and nonadditive genetic effects, and age, and the additive genetic effect of animal as random effects. A second model also included the fixed effects of genetic group. The use of genetic groups resulted in means of selection efficiency and correlation of 70.4 to 97.1% and 0.51 to 0.94 for WW, 85.8 to 98.8% and 0.82 to 0.98 for SC, and 85.1 to 98.6% and 0.74 to 0.97 for MUSC, respectively. High selection efficiencies were observed for year of birth and breed composition strategies. The maximum absolute difference in annual genetic gain estimated through the use of complete genealogy and genetic groups were 0.38 kg for WW, 0.02 cm for SC, and 0.01 for MUSC, with lower differences obtained when year of birth was adopted as a genetic group criterion. Grouping strategy must consider selection decisions and the number of genetic groups formed, in the way that genetic groups represent the genetic differences in population and allow an adequate prediction of EBV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archivos de Zootecnia is the property of Archivos de Zootecnia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) is a social species that defends territories along water bodies. Although some researchers have visually monitored otters during long periods at night, no nocturnal activity of the species has been recorded and giant otters are currently believed to be strictly diurnal. In this study, we present information about the activity patterns of groups of giant otters in the Brazilian Pantanal, using radio telemetry and camera trap data. We captured, implanted transmitters in, and monitored three male giant otters from different groups in the Miranda and the Vermelho Rivers between November 2009 and June 2011. The locations and behavior of the group were recorded at 30-min intervals from 05:00 to 19:00. Camera traps were positioned at the active dens and latrines of eight groups of giant otters in the Miranda, Vermelho and Negro Rivers between June 2010 and October 2011. The groups of giant otters were mostly crepuscular and diurnal, but 31% of the camera-trap recordings were nocturnal. Fishing was the most frequent (64%) behavior recorded by telemetry. Giant otters were recorded exiting the den mostly in the early morning (06:00) and entering the den at the end of the day (16:00 to 19:00). Nocturnal activity appeared to be associated with the need to defecate, prey availability nearby the den and predation risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat quality traits are economically important because they affect consumers' acceptance, which, in turn, influences the demand for beef. However, selection to improve meat quality is limited by the small numbers of animals on which meat tenderness can be evaluated due to the cost of performing shear force analysis and the resultant damage to the carcass. Genome wide-association studies for Warner-Bratzler shear force measured at different times of meat aging, backfat thickness, ribeye muscle area, scanning parameters [lightness, redness (a*), and yellowness] to ascertain color characteristics of meat and fat, water-holding capacity, cooking loss (CL), and muscle pH were conducted using genotype data from the Illumina BovineHD BeadChip array to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) in all phenotyped Nelore cattle. Phenotype count for these animals ranged from 430 to 536 across traits. Meat quality traits in Nelore are controlled by numerous QTL of small effect, except for a small number of large-effect QTL identified for a*fat, CL, and pH. Genomic regions harboring these QTL and the pathways in which the genes from these regions act appear to differ from those identified in taurine cattle for meat quality traits. These results will guide future QTL mapping studies and the development of models for the prediction of genetic merit to implement genomic selection for meat quality in Nelore cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to correlate the activity and habitat use of a large and ecologically specialized mammal ( Myrmecophaga tridactyla) with the time of day and minimum daily temperature in Brazil's Pantanal wetland. Seven giant anteaters were fitted with very high frequency (VHF) radio transmitters and monitored from March to December 2001. The animal's state of activity or rest, time and ambient temperature were recorded in different patches of the study site, which were covered by a mosaic of vegetation types and several ponds. Whenever a giant anteater was inside a forest patch, the temperature inside and outside of the patch was also recorded. The temperatures throughout the day were recorded by the meteorological station at the study site. The period of greatest activity of giant anteaters started at 18:00 h on hot days, but whenever the daily minimum temperature declined, the species' activity began earlier. Giant anteaters use predominantly forest habitats for rest and open habitats for activity. The forest patches work as a temperature buffer, because they are cooler than the matrix of open habitats during the hot hours of the day and warmer than the matrix during the cold hours. Although the giant anteater is known to be associated with open habitats, this study indicates the need of preserving forest patches for the conservation of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight patients with life-threatening hemobilia were treated by percutaneous transcatheter occlusive therapy. The bleeding was caused by a traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the hepatic artery in 6 cases (auto accident in 4, surgery in 1, biliary drainage in 1) and a true aneurysm of the hepatic artery in 2 (unknown etiology in 1 and mycotic in 1). Arterial catheterization was used in all cases except for one in which a direct percutaneous puncture was performed. Gelfoam alone was used as embolic material in 3 patients. In 1 patient each, the material used was gelfoam plus coils, coils alone, blood clot, n-butyl-cyanoacrylate and an occluding balloon catheter. In all cases the bleeding stopped and did not recur during the follow-up period which ranged from 9 months to 14 years. This experience indicates that transcatheter occlusive therapy is an effective method for the treatment of severe hemobilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraarterial injection of Lipiodol has been recommended to differentiate hepatocellular carcinoma from benign lesions such as cavernous hemangioma, because uptake and prolonged retention of the contrast medium is a characteristic of the malignant tumors. In two cases of cavernous hemangioma of the liver in which we injected Lipiodol, uptake and retention up to 3 months was demonstrated. We conclude that the intraarterial injection of Lipiodol may not be reliable in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma from cavernous hemangioma of the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embolization therapy is reported in 2 patients who had vascular complications following percutaneous subclavian vein catheterization. One had an arteriovenous fistula between the right internal mammary artery (IMA) and the brachiocephalic vein. The other patient presented with a pseudo-aneurysm of the IMA with life-threatening hemorrhage and a large thoracic hematoma. A detachable latex balloon was used for occlusion of the arteriovenous fistula in the first patient and a steel spring coil was used to embolize the IMA and the pseudo-aneurysm in the second patient. The lesions were successfully treated on follow-up of 30 months for the first patient and 37 months for the other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyunsaturated fatty acids seem to exert an extra-caloric positive effect on ruminant reproduction, although the reasons for that are still unclear. Although some studies have detected a positive effect of feeding unsaturated fatty acids on embryo development of superovulated Bos tauruscattle (Thangavelu et al.2007 Theriogenology 68, 949-957), others have not (Petit et al.2008 J. Dairy Sci. 91, 1786-1790). Our hypothesis was that, although number and quality of embryos from superovulated heifers would not be affected by diet, supplemental fat would improve embryo cryotolerance. Therefore, this study evaluated superovulatory response and embryo production, as well as cryotolerance of embryos cryopreserved through freezing or vitrification in Nellore heifers supplemented with rumen-protected fat. Forty heifers (24 to 36 mo old) were kept in pasture and randomly divided into 2 experimental groups according to supplemental source [F = concentrate with rumen-protected fat (100 g/d of Megalac-E®) and C = control, without fat supplementation]. Supplements were formulated to be isocaloric and isoproteic. Each female underwent both treatments in a cross-over design with approximately 68 d between replicates. After 50 d of feeding, emergence of the wave was synchronized with the aid of hormones to initiate the superovulation protocol. Recovered embryos were frozen or vitrified, and subsequently in vitroembryo development evaluation was accomplished. Data were analyzed using generalized linear models. There was no difference between F and C groups (P> 0.10) regarding superstimulatory response, number of total embryos/ova, viable embryos, degenerate embryos, or unfertilized oocytes recovered. However, group C had a greater superovulatory response than F (18.0 ± 1.3 v.15.7 ± 1.2 CL; P= 0.06). Group C embryos presented greater hatching rate, independently of the cryopreservation method, at 48 h (33.1 ± 4.0%; n= 148 v.17.3 ± 3.3%; n= 137; P= 0.009) and at 72 h (44.3 ± 4.2%; n= 148 v.30.9 ± 4.0%; n= 137; P= 0.04) of in vitroculture. Under the conditions of the present study, supplementation with protected fat did not affect superstimulatory response and quantity or quality of embryos. However embryos from the F group were less tolerant to cryopreservation. Financial support from FAPESP, EMBRAPA, Arm & Hammer, Integral Produbon, and Pfizer of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of high or low dry matter (DM) intake and/or energy on embryo quality and production in vivo. Nonlactating Nelore cows (n = 32, 4 to 10 years old) weighing 489.5 ± 11.3 kg and with a body condition score of 3.25 (1 to 5) were used. After 15 days on the adaptation diet, cows were blocked by initial body weight (BW) and randomly divided in 4 experimental groups. The maintenance group (M) received a diet to provide 1.2% of DM/kg of BW. The restriction group (0.7M) received the equivalent of 70% of the group M diet (0.84% of DM per kg of BW). The high intake group (1.5M) received the equivalent of 150% of the M group (1.8% of DM/kg of BW). The energy group (E) received a diet with a DM similar to the M group but with an energy level equivalent to the 1.5 M group. All cows were submitted to aspiration of follicles >2 mm for ovum pick-up (OPU). Recovered oocytes were used in another experiment. The embryo donors received an intravaginal device (IVD) of progesterone release (Sincrogest®, Ouro Fino, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil), soon after OPU. Two days after OPU, the cows received 8 decreasing doses of FSH (100 mg, IM, Folltropin-V®, Bioniche Animal Health, Belleville, Ontario, Canada) and concomitant with the fifth and sixth treatments of FSH, PGF2α (500 μg each, IM, cloprostenol, Sincrocio®, Ouro Fino) was administered. The IVD was removed at the time of the last FSH injection. Twelve hours after IVD removal ovulation was induced with GnRH (0.01 mg, IM, Buserelin acetate, Sincroforte®, Ouro Fino). Cows were inseminated 12 and 24 h later. Embryo collection was performed 7 or 8 days after GnRH injection. The cows were offered all diets in a crossover design study. There were 4 sessions of embryos flushing, each 42 days apart. Data were analysed by PROC GLIMMIX of SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA) and the results are presented as least-squares means ± SE, always following the order of treatments 0.7 M, M, 1.5 M and E. There were differences in the superstimulatory response (12.6 ± 1.4; 14.6 ± 1.6; 13.6 ± 1.5ab; and 11.0 ± 1.2 follicles >6 mm; P < 0.01) and superovulatory response (9.8 ± 1.3ab; 11.0 ± 1.4; 10.2 ± 1.3; and 8.6 ± 1.3 CL; P < 0.01) among groups. Despite the lower responses observed especially in the high-energy group, no difference among groups was observed for total embryos/ova (4.5 ± 0.7; 5.0 ± 0.8; 5.0 ± 0.8; and 4.7 ± 0.7; P = 0.60), viable embryos (2.0 ± 0.4; 2.3 ± 0.5; 2.6 ± 0.6; and 2.2 ± 0.5; P = 0.40), or freezable embryos (1.7 ± 0.4; 2.0 ± 0.4; 2.1 ± 0.5; and 1.9 ± 0.4; P = 0.60). There was also no difference among groups for fertilization rate (75.8 ± 9.6; 82.3 ± 8.0; 87.8 ± 6.6; and 81.1 ± 8.4%; P = 0.71) and percentage of viable embryos (54.5 ± 10.8; 50.8 ± 10.6; 50.5 ± 10.9; and 54.4 ± 10.7%; P = 0.98). In conclusion, in contrast to our initial hypothesis, a period of 42 days under high feed/energy intake in nonlactating zebu cows apparently did not compromise in vivo embryo production. This may be because cows had a moderate body condition score or because the feeding period was not long enough to compromise oocyte/embryo quality. Financial support from FAPESP and CNPq is acknowledged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes a 130-kilometer southwestward range expansion of the invasive corals Tubastraea coccinea and Tubastraea tagusensis to Búzios and Vitória Islands in São Paulo, Brazil. In July 2008, colonies of these invasive corals were observed in Búzios in high abundances at 0.5-15-meter depth. In 2009 and 2010, they expanded in Vitória Island. It believes that these invasive corals may expand their ranges further southward in the Southwest Atlantic.

Recent studies that have used eCG administration either 14 or 22 days after fixed-time AI in dairy and beef cattle have indicated a positive effect on conception rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate conception rates in embryo recipients treated with eCG 7 days after fixed-time embryo transfer (ET). A protocol for synchronization of ovulation was used in 470 Nelore and crossbred embryo recipient heifers (n=179), dry cows (n=152), and lactating cows (n=139; body condition score=3.0 to 3.5; >40 days in milk). All heifers and dry cows, but only 27.3% of lactating cows, were cycling at the beginning of the synchronization protocol. On Day 0, each female received IM injections of 2mg of oestradiol benzoate (Gonadiol, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health, São Paulo, Brazil) and 0.075mg of PGF2α(Preloban, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health). An intravaginal progesterone-releasing device (DIB, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health) was also inserted on Day 0. On Day 8, the DIB device was removed and cows or heifers received another IM treatment of 0.075mg of PGF2α(Preloban), 300 IU of eCG (Novormon, Syntex S.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina) and 0.6mg of oestradiol cipionate (Pfizer, Brazil). Transrectal ultrasonography was performed in all recipients on the day of ET (Day 16, 17, or 18 of the protocol) and only those with a corpus luteum greater than 15mm in diameter were selected (n=113 heifers, 114 dry cows, and 70 lactating cows). Transfers of fresh, frozen, and vitrified in vivo-produced embryos from Nelore donors were balanced between experimental groups. Seven days after ET, 127 animals received an IM injection of 400 IU of eCG (eCG group), and the 170 remaining cows or heifers were not treated with eCG, and were therefore considered the control group. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed 30 and 60 days after ovulation by transrectal ultrasound. Data were analysed using generalized linear models and results are presented as least squares means±standard error. Conception rates were similar in the eCG and control groups at Day 30 (35.9±5.5 and 33.5±4.4, respectively; P>0.10) and at Day 60 (27.6±4.9 and 26.7±3.9, respectively; P>0.10). Contrary to other results in the literature, especially in dairy cows bred by fixed-time AI, the use of eCG 7 days after ET did not improve conception rates in Bos indicuscattle used as embryo recipients. Financial support from CNPq, FAPESP, and Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health of Brazil and Syntex S.A. of Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results from a previous experiment (Barros C et al.2008 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 20, 152 abst) have shown that the replacement of porcine FSH (pFHS) by eCG on the last day of the superstimulatory treatment in Nellore (Bos indicus) cows resulted in a greater superovulatory (SOV) response as compared with treatment exclusively with pFSH. However, another study (Sartori R et al.2009 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 21, 245-246 abst) in Nellore heifers did not corroborate those observations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the SOV response of Sindi (Bos indicus) donors submitted to this protocol. Forty-eight SOV treatments were performed in a crossover design in 19 nulliparous and primiparous females that were randomly divided into 2 groups: FSH (n= 24), which consisted of 8 pFSH injections (Folltropin®-V, Bioniche Animal Health; Belleville, Ontario, Canada), or FSH-eCG (n= 24), which consisted of 6 pFSH injections followed by 2 eCG injections (Folligon®, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health, Brazil). Each female underwent 2 or 3 SOV treatments that consisted of an i.m. injection of 2 mg of estradiol benzoate (Gonadiol®, Intervet) and the insertion of an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device (DIB®, Intervet) on Day 0. On Day 4, the superstimulatory treatments (100 or 150 mg of pFSH, based on previous history of SOV responses) were initiated and given in decreasing doses twice a day over a 4-day period. In the FSH-eCG group, the last 2 doses of pFSH were replaced by 2 doses of eCG (150 or 200 IU of eCG each). At the time of the fifth and sixth injections of FSH, 0.150 mg of PGF2 (Preloban®, Intervet) was injected i.m. The DIB®device was removed at the time of the last FSH or eCG injection and ovulation was induced with 0.2 mg of GnRH (Fertagyl®, Intervet) 12 h later. All females were artificially inseminated with frozen-thawed semen from the same bull 12 and 24 h after GnRH treatment. Seven days after the first AI, embryos/ova were recovered. Superstimulatory (number of follicles ≥6 mm at the time of the last FSH or eCG injection) and SOV (CL number) responses were determined by transrectal ultrasonography. Data were analyzed using generalized linear models and results were presented as least squares means ± standard error. The FSH-eCG group had higher superstimulatory (33.3 ± 3.9 v. 24.2 ± 3.0 follicles; P≤0.06) and SOV (16.8 ± 2.9 v. 10.8 ± 2.1 CL; P≤ 0.10) responses. Although the number of total ova/embryos recovered was not different between groups (8.2 ± 1.8 v. 5.9 ± 1.4 for FSH-eCG and FSH groups, respectively; P> 0.25), the number (6.5 ± 1.2 v. 2.4 ± 0.7; P≤ 0.008) and percentage (75.2 ± 6.6 v. 52.8 ± 8.6%; P≤ 0.05) of viable embryos was greater for the FSH-eCG females. Contrasting with the results in Nellore heifers, this study observed improvement in superstimulatory and SOV responses and embryo quality by replacing the last 2 doses of pFSH by eCG in Sindi donors. Financial support from FAPESP, EMBRAPA, Intervet Schering-Plough Animal Health, Nutricell, and Sindi do ACS of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies using sex-sorted sperm by flow cytometry have shown that its fertility is reduced. Therefore, this study evaluated structural and functional characteristics of sperm sexed by flow cytometry. In addition, in vitroembryo production (IVP) and development was assessed when frozen-thawed unsorted and sex-sorted sperm from 4 Nellore bulls. Each ejaculate was separated into three fractions: non-sexed (NS), sexed for X-sperm (SX), and sexed for Y-sperm (SY). After thawing, each sample was analyzed for sperm motility by computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA, Berkeley, CA), sperm head agglutination, sperm morphology, membrane integrity by propidium iodide (PI) and 6-carboxy-fluorescein diacetate (CFDA) staining, acrosome integrity by peanut agglutinin (PNA), capacitation by chlortetracycline (CTC), and chromatin integrity by acridine orange staining. Then, the samples were placed in 45 : 90% (NS90) or 45 : 60% (NS60, SX, and SY) Percoll™ gradients. After Percoll™ centrifugation, sperm pellets were analyzed or used for IVP. All analyses were replicated independently three times. For IVP, 2,271 in vitromatured oocytes were used. To assess fertilization rate, presumptive zygotes were fixed and stained with lacmoid at 18 h post-insemination (hpi). Cleavage was evaluated at Day 2 (48 hpi) and blastocyst development at Days 6, 7, 8, and 9 of culture. Data were analyzed using generalized linear models. No differences (P> 0.05) were observed between SX and SY groups for e sperm variables evaluated either before or after Percoll™. However, non-sexed sperm had higher sperm motility, greater percentage of sperm with intact membranes, and greater percentage of live sperm with intact acrosomes than sexed sperm (P< 0.05). An effect of Percoll™ was observed in the non-sexed samples, with those submitted to 45 : 90% gradient having higher motility, greater percentage of cells with intact membrane, and lower recovery rate than those submitted to a 45 : 60% gradient. No differences among groups were observed for fertilization rate, being 74.0 ± 5.7, 63.2 ± 5.1, 67.2 ± 5.7, and 55.4 ± 5.9% for NS90, NS60, SX, and SY, respectively. Group NS90 showed a greater cleavage rate than did the SY group, while groups NS60 and SX had similar rates to the others. Blastocyst development rates on Day 6 to Day 9 were greater for group NS90. For example, on Day 8 the blastocyst rate was 34.9 ± 3.6, 22.2 ± 3.2, 18.1 ± 3.3, and 14.8 ± 2.9% forNS90, NS60, SX, and SY groups, respectively. All groups showed similar embryonic developmental stages on Day 6 to Day 9. Although sex-sorting affected sperm characteristics, it did not cause a decrease with in vitrofertility. However, differences in blastocyst rates between groups NS60 and NS90 indicated that the sperm selection protocol affected embryo production. Financial support: Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]