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This paper presents a study on the analysis for activation time and threshold value of heat detection sensor using HRR(Heat Release Rate). And it is represented to quantity of heat to activate heat detection sensor. The experiment is conducted to measure activation time and HRR of fire detection sensor burning alcohol and n-heptane. In order to burn the alcohol and n-heptane using and steel pan and the quantity of alcohol and n-heptane are 2.5 L and 650 g, respectively. The results show that peak HRR are in case of alcohol 66.13 kW and in case of n-heptane 151.64 kW, respectively. Total heat releases of heat detection sensor are in case of alcohol approximately 20.7 MJ and in case of n-heptane approximately 18 MJ, respectively.

Heat detection is a key factor in the profitability of dairy herds. However, this detection demands a significant part of the breeder's working time and is made difficult by the short duration and the discrete behavioural changes associated with oestrus in modern dairy cows. Progress has been made in monitoring cow with electronics, biosensors and computer. As a result, automated heat detection systems have been developed. Currently available tools are automated detectors of standing heat, activity-metres and automated in-line systems measuring milk progesterone. Camera-software systems and monitoring of body temperature are being developed and may also be used as heat detection tools. The heat detection rate of most systems is above 80% with a specificity of detection generally higher than 90%. The accuracy, however, may vary considerably depending on the tool and model developed. The initial investment of several thousands of euros required for these automated systems becomes a source of profit in large herds, provided the recorded data are properly managed.

the last few years, earthquakes are occur in many countries, up to 85% building are crashed and in that building lot of human are stuck, injured or may be dead. So in that way where these humans are stuck it's not possible to find in that building, in this paper thermal imaging are used to detect the human body heat, then they will easily detected and they will rescue from that building. In crashed building the position prediction are used to determine the human body position and after rescue face identification are used with supervised classification for shape factor.

Enterococcus faecalis is a Gram-positive bacteria, considered one of the most common causes of nosocomial infections. Bacterial cultures produce an exchange of energy as a result of the bacteria metabolisms. The rate of heat production is an adequate measure of the metabolic activity of the organisms and their constituent parts. Microorganisms produce small amounts of heat: 1–3 pW per cell. Although the heat produced by bacteria is very small, their exponential reproduction in a culture medium permits heat detection through microcalorimetry. In this study, we analyzed the microcalorimetric behavior of Enterococcus faecalis. A thermal Calvet microcalorimeter was used. The inside of the calorimeter contains two stainless steel cells (experimental and reference). Experiments were carried out at final concentrations of 106,105,103, and 10 CFU/mL and a constant temperature of 309.65 K was maintained within the microcalorimeter. Recording the difference in calorific potential over time we obtained E. faecalis’s growth curves. Thermograms were analyzed mathematically allowing us to calculate the constant growth, generation time and the amount of heat exchanged over the culture time.

Drying is one of the standard unit operations in the pharmaceutical industry and it is important to become aware of the circumstances that dominate during the process. The purpose of this study was to test microcapsulated thermochromic pigments as heat indicators in a fluid bed drying process. The indicator powders were manually granulated with alpha-lactose monohydrate resulting in three particle-size groups. Also, pellets were coated with the indicator powders. The granules and pellets were fluidized in fluid bed dryer to observe the progress of the heat flow in the material and to study the heat indicator properties of the indicator materials. A tristimulus colorimeter was used to measure CIELAB color values. Color indicator for heat detection can be utilized to test if the heat-sensitive API would go through physical changes during the pharmaceutical drying process. Both the prepared granules and pellets can be used as heat indicator in fluid bed drying process. The colored heat indicators give an opportunity to learn new aspects of the process at real time and could be exploded, for example, for scaling-up studies.

Estrous expressions in dairy cows have been shortened and weakened. Dairy heifers, on the other hand, may not have had such changes in estrous signs as observed in cows, since they have less stresses than cows. The aim of this study was to describe the duration of estrus in a herd of dairy heifers. A total of 56 Holstein Friesian heifers estrus was synchronized using two different hormonal protocols. They were checked for primary and secondary estrous signs with the help of heat detection devices for 48 h at an interval of 4 h starting at 16.00 hour, one day after PGF(2alpha) treatment. Onset and end of standing estrus during 48 h observation period was recorded in 35 of the 44 heifers coming into estrus within 5 days after PGF(2alpha) treatment during the observation period. The duration of standing estrus on the average (+/-SD) was 9.7 +/- 5.3 h. Percentage of heifers with standing estrus longer than 12 h was 40%, and 53% showed standing estrus only for 4-8 h. It is indicated that duration of estrus in dairy heifers has been shortened recently.

Correa-Calderon, A., Leyva, C., Avendano, L., Rivera, F., Diaz, R., Alvarez, F.D., Ardon, F. and Rodriguez, F. 2009. Effect of artificial cooling and its combination with timed artificial insemination on fertility of Holstein heifers during summer. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 35: 109–112. In order to evaluate artificial cooling and timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol on fertility during summer months, 90 Holstein heifers were randomly and equally assigned to three treatments: a) control group (S) with visual heat detection and insemination a.m-p.m after heat detection; b) a group (TAI+C) using a norgestomet ear implant (3 mg) plus an injection of 3 mg of norgestomet and 5 mg of estradiol valerate. The implant was removed after 9 d and 500 IU i.m ofeCG were administered at the same time, plus a cooling period with spray and fans beginning at time of implantation until 21 d after AI; c) a third group (C) with heat detection and AI a.m-p.m, starting the artificial cooling when animals initiated in...

El entendimiento de los factores que regulan el ciclo estral de la vaca es un componente esencial del manejo reproductivo en las fincas ganaderas. El incremento en la utilización de mano de obra calificada y especialistas en reproducción, así como la implementación de programas de inseminación artificial, sincronización del ciclo estral y transferencia de embriones han venido acentuando esta necesidad. La alta incidencia de actividad de monta durante la noche y los cortos periodos de duración del estro hacen de la detección de celos una tarea nada fácil, lo que parcialmente explicaría por qué la detección de calores es, después de la mastitis, la problemática número uno en muchas ganaderías y por qué la subfertilidad de las hembras se constituye en una de las principales razones de descarte del hato. Complet understanding of factors involved with estrous cycle in cows is an essential topic for reproductive managment in dairy and beef herds. Recent increases in different biotechnologies such as artificial insemination, multiple ovulation and embryo transfer programs. have the primary base in this concern. The high incidence in night mounting activity and short time cycles means that estrus detection is very important and too difficult, and has showed how this work is a big problem in livestock, and subfertility in many heifers and cows is one of the principal causes for culling of the herd.

続成から低変成度領域の地質温度計としてのビトリナイト反射率は、ISOやJISそれにASTM等でも標準化されている。しかし従来の手法では75μmより微細な粒子の判別及び測定はできなかった。しかし石炭の熱可塑性に着目した判別方法なら微細なビトリナイトであっても判別が可能である。また観察用の広視野照明装置と測定用のスポット照明装置の二つを併設した顕微測定装置は1.6μmの微小な粒子の反射率も測定できる。これにより断層周辺の局所的な温度マッピングや細粒堆積物の温度推定可能になった。

Studies using quantitative sensory testing (QST) often present incongruent results due to intra- and intersubject as well as interobserver variability which limit widespread use of the technique. Eliminating or reducing the factors responsible for this variability is of great interest, as it increases reliability and reproducibility of QST. Thermal sensory threshold determination is a crucial part of QST. It was previously suggested that the pressure of the thermode on the skin could influence measurements. To verify this, we developed a new thermode with a built-in pressure sensor. Thresholds obtained with this thermode were compared to those obtained with a commercially available thermotesting device (Medoc TSA-II). Heat detection and heat pain detection thresholds were higher, and cold detection thresholds were lower when measured with our thermode than they were with the Medoc thermode. Cold pain detection thresholds did not differ between the thermodes. Analysis of the heat transfer capacity of the thermodes indicated that the material of the skin contact surface of the thermode may play a role in these shifts in threshold values. Altering the thermode pressure on the skin did not affect the thermal thresholds. Furthermore, the intrasubject variability of the measurements (minimal-to-maximal range of measured threshold values in individual subjects) was also not influenced by the pressure with which the thermode was attached to the skin. Our results suggest that the pressure with which the thermode is attached to the skin does not significantly affect the intra- and intersubject reproducibility of the thermal sensory threshold measurements. Muscle Nerve, 2008

index is over 365 days has been estimated at £3-5 per day (Kingshay Trust 2008). Currently, the value of replacement heifers is high, so farmers often keep animals that fail to get in calf for many months rather than culling them. Poor dairy cow fertility is a major cost and national fertility figures are getting worse, with average heat detection rates at 35% and conception rates of 35-40% (Cook 2008). There are many reasons for this deterioration, particularly that many cows, particularly Holsteins, show few oestrus signs for only a short (average less than 8 hours) period, and that there is inadequate observation of cows (Fig. 1).

the last 20 years have steadily deteriorated to the current UK position of a national average conception rate estimated at around 35-40% (Fig. 1), heat detection rates of around 35% (Fig. 2) and an overall calving to conception interval of around 120 days (Fig. 3). Alongside this apparent fall in reproductive performance has been a steady increase in yield (Fig. 4), an increase in herd size to around 140 cows (Promar FBA Data 2007) and a reduction not only in the labour available on the modern dairy farm but also arguably a reduction in the quality of labour available to carry out certain key tasks.

Arson in schools has been a huge problem in Sweden over the last fifteen years. The average amount of school arsons between 2000 and 2014 was 285 cases each year which corresponds to 50% of the total amount of reported fires in school buildings. This is a well-known problem and a lot of research has been done in this area. Investigations has been done about fire and heat detection systems, different technical factors significance in fire scenarios and how to prevent adolescents from starting fires. Another part of the problem that partly been investigated is how the schools are constructed. Roughly 50% of the arsons are outside of the school building. In Sweden one and two storey buildings are allowed to be built with wooden facades in accordance with the building code, which is one of the reasons many schools are built with wooden facade systems. The most critical part in a wood facade system from a fire safety perspective is concluded to be the eaves because of how they usually are built to let air pass through. Even though a wood facade isn't as well resistant to fire compared to a concrete facade, three versions of new test methods for combustible facades have been developed to make it possible to make sure in advance that a construction is resistant enough. The new test methods are focused on specific details and parts of a facade system to provide a more informative and useful result compared to SP Fire 105. Observations and measurements of flame spread and temperature changes in the eave, over the window joints and in the air gap are made. With these parameters in consideration criteria's has been chosen for a critical temperature of 280 ∘C at a critical time of 20 minutes. © Owned by the authors, published by EDP Sciences, 2016 Language: en

Response to most estrous synchronization programs is improved in cycling females, compared to pre-pubertal heifers or anestrus cows. Cycling status is often monitored for research purposes by measuring progesterone concentrations in serum. Producers may want to use information on cyclicity status when determining which estrous synchronization program to use or as a component of their heifer selection. Heat detection patches are routinely used to aid or reduce time needed for heat detection. The most data on their use is for a 3 to 5-day period after estrous synchronization. Little information is available on retention of patches for longer time periods or how they may compare with serum progesterone for determining cyclicity status. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to compare Standing Heat and Estrotect heat detection patches with serum concentrations of progesterone for identifying cycling (pubertal) heifers before the start of the breeding season.

About 25 insect species are attracted by forest fires and thus can be found on freshly burnt areas after fires. In three genera of pyrophilous beetles and one genus of pyrophilous bugs, infrared (IR) receptors have been discovered. From a technical point of view, insect IR receptors can be classified into two classes: bolometer-like sensors innervated by thermoreceptors and so-called photomechanic sensors which are innervated by mechanoreceptors. Despite of their different functional principles, insect IR receptors all show the same built-in filter properties. Remarkably, these filters were already preset by the absorption spectra of the gases in the atmosphere and the chemical composition of the insect cuticle. The atmospheric windows can be regarded as valuable filters (Filter 1) because emission maxima of relevant IR sources like fires or warm-blooded creatures are located within the MW(mid-wavelength)IR and LW(long wavelength)IR windows. Filter 2 is given by cuticular absorption. Insect cuticle can be regarded as a composite material consisting of biopolymers that show strong IR absorption bands in the MWIR. Because both filters perfectly match, an IR-sensitive pyrophilous insect is able to efficiently sense MWIR radiation emitted by a forest fire. Thus, filters could be used without further modifications enabling the underlying sensory cells to perceive a maximum of temperature increase and/or thermal expansion.

Adoption of automated heat detection technologies is increasingly popular in the dairy industry. Generally speaking, farmers invest in only one technology on the assumption that this system will find most, if not all, cows in heat. It is, however, known that these technologies do not find all cows in heat. It has been suggested that automated heat detection may improve when sensor data are combined, where this involves combining different sensor measurements, e.g. linking activity with rumination data. So far, the option of combining different technologies has not been studied for the obvious reason that no commercial farms are using technologies from several suppliers. The Smart Dairy Farming (SDF) project, a Dutch initiative, brings together technology providers, knowledge institutions and dairy farms to improve the longevity of dairy cows by developing innovative tools to improve animal health, reproduction and feeding strategies. The SDF project offers a unique opportunity to research whether combining different sensing technologies improves automated heat detection. To do this, progesterone profiles were created by daily measurement of progesterone in milk from 31 cows, over a 24-day period, at two farms participating in the SDF project. One automated heat detection technology is used on both farms, and each farm has a second, different, technology running simultaneously. Heat alerts generated and farmers’ observations were compared with progesterone profiles. The data were used to provide insight into the following issues: do heat detection technologies provide alerts for cows in heat; when do they alert for heat events; how do farmers use the information from the heat detection technologies; and whether the exact timing of true heat may be improved by combining heat alerts. Finally, possible explanations will be studied for those heat events that remain undetected by both oestrus detection systems and farmers’ observations.

Unidentified heats contribute to declining fertility rates in English dairy herds. Several techniques have been advocated to improve heat detection rates. Despite demonstrable technical efficacy and cost-effectiveness, uptake is low. A study in South West England used the Theory of Reasoned Action (TORA) to explore dairy farmers' attitudes and beliefs towards heat detection techniques. Few farmers were convinced that following prescribed observation times, milk progesterone testing and using pedometers would fit their system or improve on their current heat detection practices. Perceived difficulty of using a technique was not a constraint on adoption. Without promotion that addresses identified barriers and drivers to adoption, little change in current practice can be expected.

Use of timed AI programs has become commonplace on most dairy farms either because cows are not watched sufficiently to detect estrus, or because expression of estrus is limited by confinement housing. A number of programs are available to set up firstpostpartum inseminations that include some timed AI or timed AI of all cows once the end of voluntary waiting period (VWP) is reached. One approach may include a period of heat detection and AI until, for example, 100 days in milk, when a timed AI protocol is applied to all previously non-inseminated cows. Another approach includes injections of prostaglandin F2α, followed by periods of heat detection and AI, until a timed AI protocol is applied to all previously non-inseminated cows. Another approach may use a timed AI protocol that is applied so all cows can be first inseminated after the end of the VWP. The most sophisticated system involves presynchronizing estrous cycles during the latter part of the VWP and then applying a timed AI protocol. When protocols are applied correctly, ensuring that each cow is injected and inseminated appropriately, conception rates are either equal to, or slightly less, than those achieved when inseminations are based solely on behavioral signs of estrus (i.e., standing estrus). In contrast, pregnancy rates are almost always greater because more cows are inseminated (PR = AI submission rate × conception rate). Early application of Ovsynch before pregnancy status is known can allow all open cows to be re-inseminated by 2 to 3 days after their nonpregnant status is confirmed. This last program can essentially eliminate heat detection; when heats are observed, however, it becomes a bonus to the system.

Breeding system costs were estimated for natural service and various estrous synchronization plus artificial insemination (AI) systems. Cost per pregnancy was lower for natural service than AI; however, for the large herd size the difference was small for some synchronization systems examined. When the value of an AI-sired calf at weaning was included as $25 greater than a natural service sired calf, several synchronization systems had lower breakeven prices than natural service. Assuming skilled labor could be obtained, systems that involved more heat detection time were more profitable than strict timed insemination systems. Producers that can obtain greater returns from AI-sired calves will find synchronization of estrus and AI valuable tools to increase profitability of their operation.

The influence of social subordination on sexual motivation during oestrus was studied using 36 sows of which 24 treatment sows were housed in pairs and 12 control sows were housed individually in 12 and 6 m(2) pens, respectively. Video recordings were made from 07:00 h to 19:00 h during the first 2 days after grouping, which took place 3 days after weaning of the piglets. Based on the aggressive interactions between the pair-housed sows, their rank was determined. From day 4 after weaning, a test for sexual proceptive behaviour was carried out twice daily and back-pressure test was carried out four times daily in order to detect standing oestrus. When standing oestrus had occurred, transrectal ultrasonographical scans were also carried out in order to determine if ovulation took place. The proceptivity test took place in a T-maze with a 2 m x 10 m runway ending in two 1.5 m x 1.5 m goal boxes each adjacent to a stimulus compartment. One compartment contained an adult sexually experienced boar and the other was empty. Latency to and duration of time spent close to the boar and time spent presenting were recorded during the 10-min test period. On the first day that standing oestrus had been detected, a test for sexual receptivity was also carried out by introducing the sow to a mature boar in his home pen (9 m(2)). Sexual- and fear-related behaviour of sow and boar were recorded until mating was terminated or the sow had spent 5 min in the pen without mating being initiated. During oestrus the proceptivity test showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the time spent standing close to the boar and in presenting for single-housed sows and for pair-housed dominant sows, but not for subordinate sows. During oestrus subordinate sows spent significantly less time standing close to the boar than the dominant sows (P = 0.01) and the same tended to be the case for presenting (P = 0.07). In the receptivity test more subordinate sows than dominant sows fled (40% versus 0%, P = 0.001) and more subordinate sows than dominant sows squealed (58% versus 15%, P = 0.02) as a response to boar stimulation. In both tests, the single-housed sows differed neither from the dominant nor the subordinate sows. There was however no difference between the groups in the weaning to oestrous interval, duration of oestrus and number of piglet born. In addition, all the sows ovulated. The results indicate that social subordination can have significant consequences for sexual motivation in sows. Subordinate sows showed fear-related behaviour in response to boar stimulation even when they were in standing oestrus. Thus, both heat detection and mating may be impaired in subordinate sows. The results emphasise the importance to alleviate the social stress experienced by subordinates as well as the need for stock people to pay special attention to these animals when they are to be mated or inseminated.

There are at least several ways of detecting bovine heat, which vary in accuracy, as well as in the effort and cost associated with the implementation and operation of equipment designed for this purpose. Heat in cows can be most easily detected by thorough and systematic observation of animals in the herd. Other methods include the measurements of vaginal mucosal resistance, the fitting of balloons with paint at the base of the tail or on the back, temperature measurements in the vagina, rumen and milk, and determination of progesterone levels in milk and blood. Currently, controlled breeding programmes, including timed artificial insemination (TAI) and automated estrus detection (AED) or activity monitoring system (AMS), are routinely introduced in high-performance dairy herds. Most of the commercially available heat detection devices are based on accelerometers or pedometers. These devices are capable of detecting heat in 81.4% to 91.3% of cows. The sensitivity of heat detection was 58.9% for accelerometers (Heatime), 63.3% for pedometers (SAE Afikim, Kibbutz Afikim, Israel), 56.7% for KaMaR markers and 35.9% for heat detectors (Scratchcard). When two of the three systems were combined (different combinations), the sensitivity increased to 75.9%. Similarly, after adding visual detection, sensitivity increased to 96% and specificity to 90% (for visual observation combined with AMS). Activity monitoring systems are a proven tool for improving the management of cows. They are an alternative to reproductive management based solely on traditional methods of detecting ovulation or hormone programmes (TAI) and they respect the well-being of animals. It seems, however, that further improvement in cows’ fertility on industrial cattle farms will be achieved by combining several different methods of heat detection and synchronization, rather than by using a single modern heat detection system..

This report summarizes the benefits of using timed artificial insemination (AI) programs in lactating dairy cows. Since its beginnings, use of Ovsynch has penetrated the dairy industry and is most prevalent in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the U.S. The timed AI program benefits farms that have difficulties with heat detection. Heat detection challenges can occur because of inadequate observation or poor expression of heat associated with footing conditions. Explanation of mechanisms associated with hormone injections are presented to justify the success of currently recommended timed AI programs.

Timed artificial insemination (TAI) of beef cows at a predetermined time is a management tool that reduces labor costs associated with conventional heat detection before insemination. Multiple research trials have examined timing of the individual components of the developed protocols associated with TAI. The 7-day CO-Synch + progesterone insert (controlled internal drug release; CIDR) protocol has been shown to initiate ovulation effectively in cycling and noncycling suckled beef cows, often producing pregnancy rates greater than 50% in beef cows. In the current research, we examined using two targeted insemination intervals depending on the occurrence of estrus. We hypothesized that by more closely synchronizing estrus and insemination that pregnancy rates would be increased. We further hypothesized that cows that do not demonstrate estrus and are subjected to a TAI protocol might benefit from an increased interval to insemination.

O presente relatório resulta do estágio curricular realizado na área de Clínica de Espécies Pecuárias, no âmbito do Mestrado Integrado em Medicina Veterinária. Na primeira parte, são descritas as explorações onde o estágio se realizou e as atividades desenvolvidas nas mesmas. Numa segunda parte, efetuou-se uma revisão bibliográfica sobre os fatores reprodutivos que afetam explorações leiteiras e, numa terceira parte, desenvolve-se análise dos índices reprodutivos nas explorações onde decorreu o estágio. No presente trabalho pretendeu-se descrever os principais fatores que influenciam os parâmetros reprodutivos de uma exploração de bovinos de leite, de modo a perceber a ação destes em regime intensivo, comparando duas formas de assistência veterinária, permanente e periódica. Os dados foram tratados graficamente para avaliar os principais índices reprodutivos. O estudo revelou que as altas produções leiteiras estão associadas a maiores problemas reprodutivos e que a assistência veterinária é um fator muito importante no desenvolvimento, implementação e controlo dos programas reprodutivos; Abstract: Practice and Reproduction of dairy cattle. The present report has been produced, as part of the master's degree in Veterinary Medicine. In the first part a description of the developed activities during the training post is presented. In the second part there is a review of the literature on the reproductive factors affecting the performance in dairy cattle. In the third part of the present work, an analysis of the reproductive performance on two hosting farms was produced. We described the main factors influencing the reproductive parameters of dairy production in order to understand their effects on both farms under evaluation, having in account the differences of veterinary services (internal and external). Our study showed that dairy production units with high production are associated with higher reproductive problems and, the veterinary activity on dairy health management is a very important factor on the development, implementation and monitoring of reproductive programs.

A recent survey showed that 66% of producers surveyed used some amount of heat detection in their artificial insemination program, and 74% of producers that used heat detection aids had tried Estrotect (Rockway, Inc.; Spring Valley, WS) heat detection patches. The peel-and-stick application made Estrotect more popular than types that required adhesive application. The patches are designed so that when the animal is mounted the top surface layer is removed, much like scratching a lottery ticket. After several mounts the entire layer is removed, leaving a bright-colored surface behind. A new type of patch, Standing Heat (Standing Heat, LLC; Dannebrog, NE), was recently released and has a surface layer designed to rub off with the goal of reducing false positive readings due to inadvertent scratches such as from branches or tail switching. The objective of the current study was to compare the efficacy of two different heat detection patches.

Cow oestrus detection rates are of major constraint to good reproductive performance in dairy herds and there is a need for heat detection aid. The DEC® system is an electronic device that detects cows that stand to be mounted by a herd mate and provides a continuous monitoring of activity. Accuracy and efficiency of this system was evaluated from 30 Holstein cows. They were fitted on the fourth or fifth week post-partum with the DEC® system which was left in place until confirmation of pregnancy. During the same period, visual observation (VO) for occurence of oestrus were conducted four times daily and blood samples collected weekly for progesterone determination. A blood sample was also collected each time a cow was detected in oestrus independent of the method used. Inferred from progesterone patterns a total of 96 ovulation/oestrus periods occurred; 34 were correctly detected by the DEC® system, 66 by VO resulting in efficiencies of 35.4 and 68.8%, respectively (P

Background and Objectives: Hypnosis has been reported to induce analgesia and to facilitate anesthesia. To date, hypnotic-induced analgesia has had little explanation and it has even been questioned. The current study was thus designed to investigate the effect of hypnotic suggestion on thermal-detection thresholds, heat pain, and heat-pain tolerance thresholds. Methods: In 15 healthy volunteers, enrolled in a randomized cross-over study, thermal thresholds were investigated in 2 sequences of measurements, under waking and hypnotic states, using a thermal stimulator. Results: Heat detection and heat-pain thresholds were increased under hypnosis (from 34.3 [plusmn] .9[deg ]C to 36.0 [plusmn] 2.9[deg ]C and 45.0 [plusmn] 3.7[deg ]C to 46.7 [plusmn] 2.7[deg ]C, respectively, P [lt ] .05), whereas heat-pain tolerance and cold-detection thresholds were not statistically changed. Conclusion: These results indicate that hypnosis may partly impair the detection of A[delta ] and C fibers stimulation, potentially explaining its analgesic effect. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2002;27:43-46.

Behavioral features recognition was an important effect to detect oestrus and sickness in dairy herds and there is a need for heat detection aid. The detection method was based on the measure of the individual behavioural activity, standing time, and temperature of dairy using vibrational sensor and temperature sensor in this paper. The data of behavioural activity index, standing time, lying time and walking time were sent to computer by lower power consumption wireless communication system. The fast approximate K-means algorithm (FAKM) was proposed to deal the data of the sensor for behavioral features recognition. As a result of technical progress in monitoring cows using computers, automatic oestrus detection has become possible.

Objectives The three objectives of this study were to determine the positive predictive value (PPV) of oestrus diagnosis (heat detection accuracy) by dairy farmers, calculate the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the P4 Rapid milk progesterone assay for detecting a corpus luteum and evaluate the economics of using a cow-side milk progesterone assay designed to aid oestrus diagnosis. Methods Milk samples were collected from 752 cows diagnosed in oestrus by farm personnel on 14 dairy farms. Samples were tested using the P4 Rapid milk progesterone assay to estimate the PPV of oestrus diagnosis at each farm and a crude pooled mean of PPV of oestrus diagnosis across all farms. A further 156 milk samples were collected from cows with luteal tissue status determined by transrectal ultrasound and tested by the P4 Rapid assay to enable calculation of the sensitivity and specificity of the P4 Rapid assay. Results For pooled farm samples, the PPV was 97.0%, with a range between farms of 88.9–100%. Sensitivity of the P4 Rapid milk progesterone assay for detecting a corpus luteum was 90.1% and specificity was 98.7%. Misclassification of oestrus in cows previously identified as pregnant was the most common cause of false-positive oestrus diagnoses by farm personnel. Conclusion Routine testing of milk progesterone in all cows diagnosed in oestrus is not economically justified and may even slightly reduce submission rates; conversely, strategic use of cow-side milk progesterone assays can improve herd reproductive performance by facilitating decisions on whether to rebreed cows previously diagnosed as pregnant.

Previous studies have demonstrated that during the application of a 5-day CIDR + Timed Artificial Insemination (TAI) protocol in dairy heifers, the initial GnRH at CIDR insertion and the second PGF2a 12h after CIDR removal are not essential to optimize pregnancy at TAI (P/TAI; J.Dairy Sci 2011 94:4997- 5004). A major factor limiting the development of these programs in dairy farms is to overlook the importance of applying the hormonal injections at the correct day and time according to the specific protocol. This situation becomes more critical when trying to avoid cattle management practices during weekends. The establishment of a 4-day CIDR+TAI protocol performed on a Monday-Friday schedule would simplify the routine reproductive management of heifers in dairy farms, since it would facilitate treatment administration (Monday: CIDR insertion; Friday: CIDR withdrawal+PGF2a; next Monday: GnRH+TAI). Moreover, in contrast to the 4-day CIDR protocol, both the 5-day and 7-day CIDR programs require handling of animals on three different days of the week. In a recent pilot study heifers treated with a 4-day CIDR+TAI protocol showed an optimal P/TAI (66.7%, 10/15) similar to that observed in the of 5-day CIDR+TAI protocol (46.7%, 7/15) or AI after PGF2a injection and heat detection (46.7%, 7/15). However; despite the numerical differences, in that study the sample size was not sufficient to show statistical differences among groups. The objective of this study was to evaluate the P/TAI in dairy heifers treated with a Monday-Friday 4-day CIDR+TAI protocol compared to that of heifers treated with a 5-day CIDR+TAI protocol., American Association of Bovine Practitioners Proceedings of the Annual Conference, 2014

UK Vet Vol 15 No 6 October 2010 38 INTRODUCTION The decline in dairy herd reproductive performance over the last 20-25 years or so has seen a fall in heat detection rates accompanied by a fall in conception rates (Lucy, 2001; Royal et al., 2000). This has led to the development of a variety of systems of heat detection, aimed at increasing the number of cows detected in heat thus increasing submission rates, in the simple belief that, providing egg and sperm are brought together in the right place at the right time, conception success is assured. However, if heat detection were the sole problem relating to the decline in performance then surely conception rates would have remained static? The question then arises that if the methods of heat detection that have been employed over the last 20-25 years are accurate, and the quality of purchased semen has been maintained, there must be other factors on the female side which have contributed to the decline.

OESTRUS synchronisation is a useful technique in cattle practice as it allows the use of fixed-time artificial insemination (Al) or improved heat detection efficiency. It can also be used to prepare donor and recipient cattle in embryo transfer programmes. As synchronisation techniques have improved, the number of beef cattle being served by Al has steadily increased. Not only does oestrus synchronisation with fixed-time Al eliminate the practical problems of heat detection in beef cattle, it also allows the use of superior, easy-calving sires. Until recently, oestrus synchronisation and fixed-time Al, while often used with replacement dairy heifers, was seldom used in lactating dairy cows in the UK as results tended to be poor compared to Al to observed heats. However, interest in synchronising oestrus in dairy cows has increased with the introduction of improved techniques utilising combinations of gonadotrophin releasing hormone and prostaglandin. The theory and current methods of oestrus synchronisation for fixed-time Al in cattle are briefly reviewed in this article.

Management of the estrous cycle is now more practical than it was a decade ago because of our understanding of follicular waves. With availability of three gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) products and two prostaglandin products, the cycle can be controlled for fixed-time inseminations with little loss in conception rate compared to inseminations after detected estrus. Various systems are effective for programming first inseminations with or without some heat detection. With the incorporation of transrectal ultrasonography for early pregnancy diagnosis 28 to 30 days after insemination, routine heat detection programs could be eliminated by reprogramming each cow after an open diagnosis. The most limiting factor in the control of the cycle is the proportion of missed heats in estrus-synchronization programs that rely partly or solely on heat detection. Pregnancy rate (the proportion of cows that become pregnant of all cows programmed for insemination) is the best measure of an estrussynchronization program, because it measures total number of pregnancies achieved per unit of time rather than simple conception success at any given insemination.

The efficiency of a multiple ovulation and embryo transfer program depends on the recovery of a large number of viable embryos per donor ewe at each successive superovulatory treatment. Embryo production, however, is characterized by high individual variability in the ovarian response to hormonal treatment. This study evaluated the repeatability of ovarian response and embryo recovery following three successive superovulatory treatments in 10 four-year-old Merino ewes over a short period of time. Oestrus was synchronized using an intravaginal progesterone pessary inserted on Day 0 and removed on Day 14. FSH was administered to induce superovulation in declining doses twice daily over 3 days as 2(18 + 14 + 8) = 80. mg total commencing on Day 12 after pessary insertion. A dose of 200. IU eCG was administered at pessary removal. Vasectomized rams were used for heat detection and laparoscopic AI was performed 12. h after oestrus detection. Surgical embryo recovery was performed at Day 8 after pessary removal, following which prostaglandin was administered and the next superovulatory procedures began 5 days later giving a 27-day interval between embryo recoveries. Ovulation rates (mean. ±. SEM) for the three successive superovulatory treatments were 13.8. ±. 2.2, 12.1. ±. 2.2 and 12.0. ±. 2.2 (NS); and total embryos recovered were 8.3. ±. 1.4, 6.3. ±. 1.4 and 3.9 ± 1.4 (P= 0.06), respectively. Consequently, the embryo recovery rates declined from 66.1. ±. 7.5% for the first recovery to 41.4. ±. 7.5 and 34.5. ±. 7.5% for the second and third recoveries (P= 0.04). The repeatability was r= 0.84 (P< 0.05) for ovulation rate, r= 0.13 (NS) for total number of embryos and r= 0.09 (NS) for number of grade 1 and 2 embryos. The study showed that an average of 16.3. ±. 2.6 grades 1 and 2 embryos per donor ewe could be recovered over a period of 2.5 months. The high repeatability of ovarian response to successive superovulatory treatments would have to be associated with a high level of repeatability for the number of transferable embryos recovered for it to be used as a criterion for selecting donors on the basis of their response to the first hormonal treatment. © 2014 Elsevier B.V.

The effect of intermittent electroshock and housing on sexual proceptive behaviour shown in the home pen was studied in pair-housed and individually housed gilts. In addition, the effect of intermittent electroshock on the behavioral response to boar stimulation and on sexual receptivity during the first oestrus was studied in pair-housed gilts. From 115 to 168 ± 2.6 days of age, 24 female pigs were subjected to inescapable electroshocks administered 0–5 times daily between 08:00 and 16:00 h and 24 female pigs served as controls. At 168 ± 2.6 days of age the gilts were given 30 min full boar contact. Immediately after the initial boar contact the gilts were assigned within stress treatment to either pair-housing (12 control and 12 electroshocked gilts) or individual housing (12 control and 12 electroshocked gilts). Oestrus detection was carried out twice daily from then on. Behaviour in the home pen was observed in all 48 gilts during the first and second day of the first oestrus and during two control days 5–8 days after oestrus. The behavioral response to boar stimulation and the sexual receptivity were observed on the 24 pair-housed gilts in 5-min tests carried out the day after the initial boar contact and during the first day of oestrus, respectively. Intermittent inescapable electroshocks affected neither the behavioral response to boar stimulation nor the sexual receptivity and proceptive behaviour in the home pen. The behavioral response was, however, of importance for the stimulatory value of the boar in that gilts which showed high levels of fear of the boar during stimulation had a lower probability of attaining puberty within 10 days after the initial boar contact. The proceptive behaviour shown in the home pen was both quantitatively and qualitatively different for individually housed and pair housed gilts, which may be of importance for the ease of oestrus detection as well as for the behavioral indicators that could practically be used for heat detection.

This study was undertaken to characterize and to estimate the level of adoption of artificial insemination (AI) as well as to identify factors determining its adoption by communal farmers of Nyagatare, Rwanda. This followed the launching of the AI programme in the district several years earlier. A survey of the breeding methods used for small scale dairy cows by farmers from five selected sectors of Nyagatare district of the Eastern Province of Rwanda was carried out by means of a questionnaire. Of the 360 respondents, 16.9% primarily used AI, 63.1% used natural service and 20.0% used both methods for breeding. A significant percentage of respondents residing within 5km of the AI centres (79.2%; P

Mestrado em Engenharia Zootécnica - Produção Animal - Instituto Superior de Agronomia / Faculdade de Madicina Veterinária With an excellent milk production aptitude, the famous black brindles Friesian is the bovine breed with the greatest expansion in the world. During the past three decades, genetic breeding programs have been implemented in dairy cattle. Therefore, reproductive traits have been poor, leading to a steady increase in milk production. The present study aims to find the relationship between high milk production and reproductive effectiveness of Manuel dos Santos Miranda dairy farm. Data were extracted from headcount records, between 2009 and 2011. Primarily, the factors influencing reproductive traits were identified, in order to reveal its action and find possible improvements. Data were graphically treated to investigate parameters such as calving interval (CI), conception rate (CR), interval between calving and conception (ICC) and interval between calving and first insemination (IC1stAI). Although no differences were found in milk production during the study, the high production shown leads to reproductive traits, such as high CI (475 ± 5 days), CR (3.3), ICC (216.5 ± 8 days) and IC1stAI (109 ± 3 days). In comparison with literature, the results showed differences in the study indexes. These were believed to be mainly caused by low heat detection, inappropriate dairy farm management and inaccurate artificial insemination strategy

The primary purpose of this research was to provide information for Perm State cooperative Extension personnels in designing extension program in the area of dairy reproductive management. The study focused on factors influencing the use of practices in five areas of reproductive management, including reproductive health, feeding management, calving and post partum management, heat detection, and artificial insemination (AI). Considering that a dairy farm profit is influenced greatly by its reproductive status, these research results could be used as a technical comparison in the efforts to increase the reproductive performance of dairy cattle in Indonesia. Research results identified several reproductive management practices which had not been used by a relatively large proportion of dairy producers. In this respect, Penn State Cooperative Extension personnels may help dairy producers to increase the reproductive efficiency of their herds by emphasizing areas where dairy producers need most help. Further, results of multiple regression analysis revealed eight factors were related significantly to the use of reproductive management practices. Those factors are: (1) dairy producers' knowledge of reproductive management, (2) DHIA (Dairy Herd Improvement Association) membership, (3) the frequency of receiving information from cooperative extension sources, (4) farmers' attitudes towards dairy farming, (5) herd size, (6) years of experience in dairying, (7) frequency of receiving information from feed company personnel, and (8) the frequency of receiving information from farm management consultant.

Dentre os problemas que diminuem a eficiência reprodutiva em rebanhos leiteiros a falha de detecção de estro é um dos fatores mais importantes. Objetivou-se avaliar a eficiência de um dispositivo que auxilia a detecção de estros – Estrotect® e compará-lo com a detecção visual em 58 vacas mestiças leiteiras Holandês/Gir com produção média de 18,5 kg de leite/dia/vaca. Os animais foram distribuídos em dois grupos: o grupo IATF (n= 21) foi submetido a um protocolo de inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) e 10 dias após a inseminação foi fixado o dispositivo nos animais. No grupo PG (n=37), foi administrado prostaglandina 25mg/animal/IM e imediatamente colado o adesivo. Essas vacas foram monitoradas por meio de exame ultrassonográfico num período de 28 dias para verificação do desenvolvimento do corpo lúteo. Para verificar se ocorreram alterações na eficiência do dispositivo quanto aos grupos utilizou-se a regressão logística e para comparar a eficiência do mesmo em relação à observação visual utilizou-se o teste de MCNemar. Não foi detectado efeito de grupo (P>0,05) na eficiência da detecção visual de estro ou da ferramenta auxiliar. Também não foi detectada diferença entre a eficiência da detecção visual de estro e o dispositivo (P>0,05). A ferramenta auxiliar de detecção de estro (Estrotect®) se mostrou tão eficiente quanto a detecção visual e pode ser utilizada em programas de inseminação artificial de vacas leiteiras. Among the problems that reduce the reproductive efficiency in dairy cows the failure in estrus detection is a major factor. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of Estrotect®, a device that aids heat detection in cattle, and to compare it with visual detection in 58 crossbred Holstein/Gyr dairy cows producing 18.5Kg/milk/cow. The animals were divided into two groups: the TAI (n = 21) underwent a fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (TAI), and 10 days after insemination, the device was fixed to the cows. In the PG group (n = 37) prostaglandin (dinoprost tromethamine) 25mg/animal/IM was administered, and then the device was put in place. These cows were then monitored by ultrasound over a period of 28 days to verify the development of the corpus luteum. Logistic regression was used to find out if there were alterations in the efficiency of Estrotect® within the groups, and the McNemar test was used to compare its efficiency to that of visual observation. No group effect was detected (P> 0.05) on the efficiency of visual detection nor on that of the auxiliary device. Neither was there observed any difference between the efficiency of visual detection of estrus and that of the device (P> 0.05). The auxiliary tool for the detection of estrus, (Estrotect ®), proved to be just as effective as visual detection. Thus, it can be used as an auxiliary device in conjunction with visual observation, and also as a unique tool for the detection of estrus in order to simplify the management of large herds.

Dissertação de Mestrado Integrado em Medicina Veterinária O declínio da fertilidade que se tem sentido no sector leiteiro tem suscitado uma crescente preocupação e busca de soluções por parte dos produtores. Assim sendo, o papel do Médico Veterinário como conselheiro e fornecedor de respostas sobre performance reprodutiva tem aumentado consideravelmente. Neste trabalho foram estudadas 327 vacas de quatro explorações leiteiras do condado de Kildare, República da Irlanda, que praticavam sistemas de produção sazonais (Primavera) em regime semi-extensivo. Estes produtores solicitaram a ajuda dos Veterinários da UCD para melhorar a fertilidade dos seus efectivos. Através da análise de rigorosos registos produtivos e reprodutivos, foi possível constatar que os parâmetros que maior influência exerceram na taxa de gestação foram o valor genético – Economic Breeding Index (p < 0,01), a produção leiteira (p < 0,05) e a perda máxima de condição corporal após o parto (p < 0,05). Recorrendo a um modelo de regressão binomial com estas três variáveis foi possível calcular a probabilidade de um animal ficar gestante, para uma sensibilidade de 99 % e especificidade de 5,9 %. Dado que a fertilidade é uma parâmetro multifactorial, deveriam ter sido estudadas outras variáveis para completar este modelo. Foi também detectada uma grave falha da detecção de estro em três das quatro explorações. Nestas, os intervalos entre repetições de serviços foram anormais e muitos dos animais que os produtores referiam como em anestro estavam de facto a ciclar. Com este estudo conseguiu-se demonstrar aos produtores a importância do maneio na melhoria da fertilidade, através da compilação de relatórios com os resultados obtidos dos registos. Numa reunião com todos os produtores foram fornecidos conselhos e desencorajadas medidas menos correctas. ABSTRACT - Study of the impact of management on Irish dairy cattle fertility - The trend towards infertility in the dairy industry has raised concerns and has made farmers actively search for solutions. Therefore, the Veterinary, as a counselor and source of answers about reproductive performance has become essential. The sample of this study consisted of 327 dairy cows from four Irish farms, co. Kildare, practicing seasonal calving in the Spring. All of them solicited the help of the UCD Veterinary team in order to improve their herd’s fertility. After analyzing meticulously the productive and reproductive records, it was clear that the factors which affected the pregnancy rate the most were the Economic Breeding Index (p < 0,01), the 305 days milk yeld (p < 0,05) and the maximum body condition score loss after calving (p < 0,05). Using a binomial regression model with these three variables, a formula to calculate the probability of a cow to become pregnant was created, with a sensibility of 99 % and specificity of 5,9%. Since fertility is a multifactorial parameter, other variables could have been included in the study in order to make it more accurate. A serious inaccuracy on heat detection was found on three of the four farms. These had abnormal interval service repeats and most of the animals tagged as anestrus were in fact cycling. With this study the impact of management on the improvement of fertility was evident to the farmers, as the final year reports were very clear about the results and outcomes. On a brief discussion, the veterinary team told the farmers which methods to use and which to abandon.

Effect of time for culling cows infected with Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis on prevalence and profitability was identified through simulations. Seven test-and-cull strategies with different culling criteria and no attempts to close infection routes were compared with strategies with (1) no control and (2) closure of infection routes and no culling. The effects on true prevalence and gross margin were evaluated in a herd with typical reproduction management (heat detection rate of 38%). This was repeated in a herd with poor reproduction management (heat detection rate of 28%), because poor reproduction leads to lack of replacement animals, which was hypothesized to affect the economic effects of culling. Effects of varying prices of milk, replacement heifers, and hourly wages were also evaluated. The simulated results predicted that immediate culling after the first positive antibody ELISA test would be the most effective culling strategy to reduce prevalence. However, closing transmission routes was even more effective in reducing the prevalence. In the first 3 to 6 yr, all test-and-cull strategies reduced gross margin by US$5 to 55/stall per year. These losses were fully compensated by increased gross margin in yr 6 to 19. In the short run (7 yr with typical reproduction and 10 yr with poor reproduction), it was most profitable to cull test-positive cows when their milk yield decreased below 85% of that expected according to their parity and lactation stage, especially in herds with poor reproduction management. However, this strategy only stabilized the prevalence and did not reduce it. In the long term (>7 yr from implementation of a strategy), it was most profitable to cull cows immediately or as soon as possible after testing positive the first time. Varying milk prices did not affect the ranking between the different culling strategies. Increased market price (20%) of replacement heifers made all culling strategies less profitable and made culling based on a milk yield criterion the most profitable culling strategy for a longer period (11 to 13 yr). A 20% reduction in heifer price made immediate culling after a positive test the most profitable strategy overall in herds with typical reproduction, and after 9 yr in herd with poor reproduction. To conclude, the ideal culling strategy depends on the aim of intervention, the time horizon, and the reproductive capabilities combined with prices of replacement animals.

Die Arbeit liefert eine umfassende Beschreibung der Managementmethoden von Milcherzeugerbetrieben unter dem Fokus Herdenfruchtbarkeit. Die Studie analysiert Einflüsse des Managements auf Reproduktions- und Milchleistung und verfolgt hierzu einen bio-sozialen Forschungsansatz. Die Daten wurden 2007 in Interviews mit Herdenmanagern und Stallrundgängen anhand von Fragebögen in 84 v.a. Brandenburger Milcherzeugerbetrieben erhoben. Die Fragen betrafen u.a. Haltungsumwelt, Stressvermeidung, Herden-, Reproduktions- und Personalmanagement. Die Leistungsdaten der Herden entstammen der Milchleistungsprüfung 2007. Die Datenanalyse umfasste qualitative und quantitative Methoden. Abhängige Variablen waren Zwischenkalbezeit (ZKZ) und 305-Tage-Milchleistung (ML). Im Mittel betrug die Herdengröße 306,3 Kühe (+/-238,3), die ZKZ 413,2d (+/-18,73) und die ML 8555kg (+/-1132,9). Die ZKZ sank tendenziell mit steigender ML (r=-0,188, p=0,10). Die ML stieg mit der Herdengröße (r=0,29, p=0,01). Die Laufgänge (LG) waren in 71,25% der Betriebe nass und rutschig. Hier war die ZKZ tendenziell länger (+16,6d, p=,055) als bei trockenen, rutschfesten LG. Die Liegeflächen (LF) waren in 29,9% der Betriebe trocken und elastisch. Hier war die ML höher (+1110kg, p=0,011) als bei nassen, harten LF. Eine eindeutige Zuordnung der Verantwortung für die Brunstkontrolle wirkte tendenziell positiv auf die ZKZ (-6,3d, p=0,129). Akademisch ausgebildete Herdenmanagerinnen erzielten eine höhere ML als gleichqualifizierte Männer (+752,9kg, p=0,005) bei gleicher ZKZ und damit eine günstigere Relation von Reproduktions- und Milchleistung. Motivierung durch materielle und soziale Anreize bzw. Verantwortungsübertragung und gute Kommunikation war mit einer höheren ML verbunden als Motivierung durch Leistungslohn (+ ca. 1000kg, p=0,009). Die Studie belegt die Notwendigkeit verbesserter Haltungsbedingungen und bietet eine Grundlage für vertiefende Studien zum Personalmanagement in Milchviehbetrieben. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of current management methods of dairy farms, focusing on herd fertility. Relations of management factors to fertility and milk performance are analyzed following a bio-social approach. In 2007 a questionnaire survey including face-to-face interviews and direct observations was conducted in 84 East German dairy farms, mostly located in Brandenburg. Questions referred to housing, stress prevention, and management of herds, reproduction and personnel. Herd performance data stem from milk performance testing in 2007. Data analysis combined qualitative and quantitative methods. Calving interval (CI) and 305-day-milk yield (MY) were used as dependent variables. Mean values of herd size, CI and MY were, respectively, 306.3 cows (+/-238.3), 413.2d (+/-18.73d) and 8555kg (+/-1132.9). CI tended to decrease with increasing MY (r=-0.188, p=0.10). MY increased with rising herd size (r=0.29, p=0.01). Floors were wet and slippery in 71.25% of farms. In these farms CI tended to be longer (+16.6d, p=0.055) compared to farms with dry and non-slippery floors. Lying areas were in 29.9% of the farms dry and flexible. Here MY was higher (+1110kg, p=0.011) than in farms with wet and hard lying areas. A clear assignment of responsibility for heat detection showed a trend of decreasing CI (-6.3d, p=0.129). Female herd managers with academic qualification achieved a higher MY than likewise qualified men (+752.9kg, p=0.005), with no difference in CI. Thus, herds managed by highly qualified women showed a better MY:CI ratio. Employee motivation by material and social incentives or by allocating responsibility to workers and pursuing good communication was related to higher MY than motivation by performance pay alone (+1000kg, p=0.009); CI remained unaffected. Performance pay had no positive effect on targeted parameters. Results underscore the need for improved housing and recommend further study into personnel management in dairy farms.

This paper presents data on fertility and litter size obtained with artificial insemination with frozen semen in five breeds of Norwegian sheep. The study is based on cervical inseminations reported by the technicians/veterinarians for the period 1984–1988. During this period 3000–3600 elite ewes were inseminated each year with semen from genetically superior rams. In addition, lambing data from sheep recording was used in this study. The non-return rate (NR%), defined as percent ewes not returned to service within minimum 20 days, was estimated to be about 60%. This variate was affected significantly by technician/veterinarian, flock-year, ram, age of ewe, number of inseminations per heat, date and time of insemination. The analysis indicates a reduction in litter size at birth of about 0.2–0.4 lambs when elite ewes were artificially inseminated rather than naturally mated. The optimal insemination time was found to be 15–20 hours from heat detection. It is also shown that technicians obtaining high NR% also obtain lower reductions in litter size from AI.

Inhalt Der Einflus der Milchleistung auf Fruchtbarkeitskriterien von Milchkuhen (n = 80) post partum (p.p.) wurde unter den standardisierten Bedingungen einer Versuchsherde anhand von Progesteronprofilen analysiert. Progesteron wurde dabei im Milchfett gemessen. Wie in fruheren Studien war das herausragende Fruchtbarkeitsproblem die reduzierte Auspragung von Brunstsymptomen und daraus resultierend Probleme bei der Brunsterkennung und bei der Wahl des optimalen Besamungstermins. Insgesamt verliefen 41,2% aller durch Progesteronmessung ermittelten Ovulationen ohne erkennbare Symptome. 94,8% aller Kuhe waren mindestens einmal von stiller Brunst betroffen. Resonders haufig verliefen die ersten Ovulationen nach dem Einsetzen der zyktischen Ovaraktivitat unerkannt. Bei stiller Brunst waren dabei die pheripheren Progesteronkonzentratwnen im Periostrus signifikant hoher als bei beobachteter Brunst. Dieses Phanomen war jedoch auf die ersten 5 Ovulationen p.p. begrenzt und weist auf hormonale, d.h. tierspezifische Ursachen der stillen Brunst in dieser Phase hin. Im weiteren Verlauf waren dagegen keine signifikanten Unterschiede in den Progesteronkonzentrationen zwischen stiller und beobachteter Brunst feststellbar. Damit mussen fur die spatere p.p.-Phase eher managementbedingte Ursachen fur die “stille” Brunst unterstellt werden. Wahrend mit steigender Laktationsleistung die Haufigkeit anderer Fruchtbarkeitsprobleme lediglich tendenziell und nicht signifikant mit der Leistung korreliert anstieg, nahm bei hoherer Milchleistung die Intensitat von Brunstsymptomen deutlich ab. Damit traten stille Brunsten und Besamungen zumfalschen Zeitpunkt signifikant haufiser auf. Entsprechend last sich die Verlangerung der Zwischenkalbezeit bei steigender Laktationsleistung nahezu vollstandig auf eine Zunahme stiller Brunsten und eine Haufung von Fehlbesamungen zuruckfuhren. Neben der Milchleistung waren eine Reihe weiterer signifikanter Einflusse auf die Fruchtbarkeit der Herde (z. B. Saison, Kalbenummer etc.) nachzuweisen. Der signifikant negative Einflus steigender Milchleistung auf Fruchtbarkeitsparameter, insbesondere auf die Brunstsymptomatik, bestatigt sich jedoch auch nach Berucksichtigung dieser Einflusfaktoren im statistischen Modell. Contents: Influence of milk yield on the fertility of dairy cows post partum: evaluation of progesterone profiles Progesterone profiles were evaluated to monitor the influence of milk yield on fertility traits of dairy cows. The cows (n = 80) were kept under standardizised experimental farm conditions and progesterone was measured in milk fat during the post partum (p.p.) period. Overall, the most frequent fertility problem was a reduced intensity of oestrus symptoms and resulting drfficulties in heat detection and timing of artificial insemination (A. I.). 41.2% of all ovulations were not accompanied by observed heat symptoms (silent heat). 94.8% of the cows investigated were affected at least once during the p.p.-period by this problem. Silent heat was most frequent afer resumption of cyclic ovarian activity pp., In case of silent heat progesterone concentrations during perioestrus were significantly elevated compared to observed oestrus. This phenomenon was obvious up to the 5th ovulation p.p. indicating endocrine determinants of silent heat during this part of the pp. period. Thereafter progesterone concentrations during perioestrus were similar in case of both, silent and observed heat, indicating that during the late p.p. period silent heat is mainly due to management failure. The frequency of fertility problems in general tended to increase slightly but not significant with increasing milk yield. A significant adverse influence of increasing milk yield however was obvious for the intensity of oestrous symptoms. Consequently the frequency of silent heat and number of unsuccessful inseminations increased with advanced yield representing the main reason for increasing interval between calvings. Additionally other injluences on herd fertility were obvious (e.g. season, number of calving). The significant negative influence of increasing milk yield, particularly concerning oestrus intensity, could be confirmed even if these influences were eliminated by the statistical model.

The objectives of this review are to describe the use of pedometry on commercial dairy farms in Israel, to evaluate its efficiency in heat detection and to describe a clinical trial comparing between pedometry and the Ovsynch technique. Pedometry is the major tool of heat detection on most farms in Israel today. On many farms automated electronic pedometry is the sole mean of heat detection. Production and reproduction parameters are monitored by Hachaklait Veterinary Services Ltd. Results are compared with the farm history and with national means and goals. The average herd rate of undetected heat in more than 120 herds recorded between 2004 and 2008 has increased from 30.3 to 38.9% in primiparous cows and from 33.9 to 43.9% in multiparous cows respectively. The average duration of the waiting period has dropped from 106.2 to 93.4 days and from 99.9 to 87.3 days in primiparous and multiparous cows respectively. The average annual rate of cows shown on heat by pedometry and not inseminated by the A.I. technicians in recent years was 13% and remained steady. The mean herd rate of normal length heat cycles (18-24 days) in multiparous cows in recent years has been fairly steady; 57.4 to 58.4% of all cycles detected in 2004 and 2008 respectively. Herd rate of double cycles is also used to estimate the sensitivity of pedometry systems. Average rate of double cycles (37-60 days) per herd per annum in multiparous cows has dropped steadily from 22.6 to 20.1% between 2004 and 2008 respectively. Mean herd rate of short cycles in multiparous cows in 2008 was 7.4% Pregnancy checks are performed by the herds' veterinarians by transrectal palpation from 40 days post A.I. onward. In 2008 the average herd rate of negative pregnancy checks in cows was 27.5% (9.5-53.4%). The wide range indicates a large variability of pedometry system in tracking non-conceived cycling cows. Beside activity and heat detection pedometry systems record other individual cow parameters. A controlled field trial comparing between pedometry, observation and Ovsynch did not yield significant differences in reproductive measures.

The objectives of the present study were to describe, in detail, behavior associated with standing estrus (STE) in lactating dairy cows and behavioral changes during complete estrous cycles. Estrus signs were monitored by continuous video recording of 20 Holstein-Friesian (HF) cows housed on an outdoor wood-chip pad during 1 estrous cycle (22 d). Other social behavior was recorded during STE and, for comparison, during 1 selected day when none of the cows were in estrus. Standing stationary when mounted was defined as the primary estrus sign. Anogenital sniff, chin rest, attempt to mount, and mount were defined as secondary estrus signs. Ovarian cyclicity was onfirmed by progesterone measurements. This study reports short mean duration of STE (7.1 ± 1.44 h) and estrus (mount period; 12.9 ± 1.84 h) of the 13 cows expressing these signs. All mounting activities involved at least one cow in, or within 4 h of, STE. The most frequent sign during STE was anogenital sniff initiated, followed by chin rest received, chin rest initiated, chase up initiated, anogenital sniff received, mount initiated, head butt, mount received, attempt to mount initiated, push away received, play rub, attempt to mount received, follow initiated, threat received, flehmen, avoid, bellow, and social lick received. Standing and mounting activity in HF cows was inconsistent during estrus, indicating that other signs could be of greater use. The frequency of secondary estrus signs initiated and received increased gradually during the last 12 h before STE, revealing significant differences between periods from 4 to 6 and 1 to 3 h before STE. A considerable increase in receptive behavior (secondary estrus signs received) was identified between 1 to 3 h prior to STE and STE. Both frequent initiated and received behaviors were associated with STE. A significant decrease in the frequency of secondary estrus signs initiated and received occurred 3 h after STE. Cows in STE simultaneously predominantly chose the other standing cow as mate and expressed secondary estrus signs more frequently. Based on the results of this study, we suggest that chase up could be regarded as a reliable indicator of estrus and that the changes in proceptive (initiated) and receptive (received) behavior could be used as predictors of different stages in estrus. Knowledge of these behavioral signs may improve heat detection rates and the ability to predict the optimum breeding time for dairy cows.

Un programa de Inseminación Artificial (IA) exitoso depende estrechamente de la eficiencia en la detección del celo. Se estima que la detección del celo se encuentra por debajo del 50% en la mayoría de los rebaños lecheros. En este orden de ideas, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar cuatro métodos de detección de celo que incluyen: Observación Visual (OV), Creyones Marcadores (CM), Kamar™ (K) y Estrotect™ (E). El ensayo se llevó a cabo en el fundo Tasajeras, ubicado en Encontrados, municipio Catatumbo, estado Zulia, Venezuela; utilizando 200 novillas mestizas doble propósito (DP) seleccionadas a través de un muestreo aleatorio simple, distribuidas en cuatro grupos experimentales, conformados por 50 animales cada uno. Grupo 1, Observación Visual; Grupo 2, aplicación de Creyones Marcadores; Grupo 3, colocación del dispositivo Kamar™; Grupo 4, aplicación del parche Estrotect™. En las novillas detectadas en celo se procedió a tomar una muestra de sangre de la vena yugular para determinar las concentraciones séricas de progesterona mediante la utilización de la técnica de radioinmunoanálisis (RIA). El diseño experimental consideró como variable dependiente el celo y como variable discreta e independiente el efecto del método de detección de celo. Todos los datos recopilados fueron analizados a través del procedimiento logístico (Proc Logistic) del SAS. Los resultados obtenidos arrojan una efectividad de 96% para el método de OV, 94% para E, 84% para K y un 14% para CM. Al mismo tiempo se presenta una diferencia significativa (P0,05) entre OV y el método K. Estos resultados indican que la participación del técnico inseminador (OV) en los programas de IA es insustituible, ratificándose una vez más la importancia de la OV como método efectivo para detectar celos. A successful Artificial Insemination (AI) program depends strictly on heat detection. It is considered that heat detection rates are lower than 50% percent in most dairy herds. The purpose of this study was to evaluate four different methods for heat detection which include: Visual Observation (VO), Tail Painting (TP), Kamar™ (K) and Estrotect™ (E). The study was performed at Fundo Tasajeras, located in Encontrados, municipality of Catatumbo, state of Zulia, Venezuela; using 200 Dual Purpose Crossbreed Heifers (DP) selected using simple randomized sampling (SRS), which were gathered in four experimental groups of 50 animals each: Group 1, Visual Observation; Group 2, Tail Painting procedure; Group 3, placement of the Kamar™ Device; Group 4, using Estrotect™ patch. In heifers with heat detected, a blood sample was taken from the yugular vein in order to determine serum progesterone concentrations (P4), by using the radioinmunoanalysis technique (RIA). The experimental design, the method for heat detection was considered as an independent and discrete variable and for dependent variable was heat. All the gathered data were analyzed by using the Logistic Procedure (Proc Logistic) as per SAS. The results showed an effectiveness of 96% for the VO method, 94% for E, 84% for K, and 14% for TP. At the same time, significant differences (P0.05). These results showed that the participation of insemination technicians (VO) in the programs of AI is a must, thus making evident the importance of the VO as an effective method for detecting heat.