Effect of age and genetic group on characteristics of the scrotum,testes and testicular vascular cones,and on sperm production and semen quality in AI bulls in Brazil

The objectives were to determine the effects of age and genetic group on characteristics of the scrotum, testes and testicular vascular cones (TVC), and on sperm production and semen quality in 107 Bos indicus, B. taurus and cross-bred bulls at three artificial insemination (AI) centers in Brazil. In addition, predictors of sperm production and semen quality were identified. In general, scrotal circumference (SC), scrotal shape score, scrotal neck perimeter, and testicular size (length, width and volume) increased (P < 0.05) with age. Although there were no significant differences among genetic groups for SC or testicular size, B. indicus bulls had the least pendulous scrotal shape, the shortest scrotal neck length, and the greatest scrotal neck perimeter (P < 0.05). Fat covering the TVC was thinner (P < 0.05) in bulls < or = 36 months of age and in B. taurus bulls than in older bulls and B. indicus bulls, respectively. Age and genetic group did not affect testicular ultrasonic echotexture. B. indicus bulls tended (P < 0.1) to have the lowest average scrotal surface temperature (SST). In general, ejaculate volume, total number of spermatozoa and number of viable spermatozoa increased (P < 0.05) with age. However, there was no significant effect of age on sperm concentration, motility, major and total defects. The proportion of spermatozoa with minor defects was highest (P < 0.05) in bulls 37-60 months of age. B. indicus bulls had higher (P < 0.01) sperm concentration, total number of spermatozoa and number of viable spermatozoa than B. taurus bulls, with intermediate values for cross-bred bulls. Increased sperm production was associated with increased testicular volume, SC, TVC fat cover, and SST top-to-bottom gradient. Decreased semen quality was associated with increased SC and bottom SST, and decreased scrotal shape, scrotal neck perimeter and vascular cone diameter. In summary, age and genetic group affected the characteristics of the scrotum, testes, and TVC, sperm production and semen quality. In addition, characteristics of the scrotum, testes and TVC were associated with sperm production and semen quality in bulls and could be assessed for breeding soundness evaluation.     

Testicular thermoregulation in Bos indicus, crossbred and Bos taurus bulls: relationship with scrotal, testicular vascular cone and testicular morphology, and effects on semen quality and sperm production

Mechanisms of testicular thermoregulation, the relationship of scrotal, testicular vascular cone (TVC), and testicular morphology with thermoregulatory capability, and their effects on semen quality and sperm production were studied in 20 Bos indicus, 28 crossbred, and 26 Bos taurus bulls. The ratio of testicular artery length and volume to testicular volume were larger (P<0.05) in B. indicus and crossbred bulls than in B. taurus bulls (1.03 and 0.94 cm/cm3 versus 0.48 cm/cm3; 0.034 and 0.047 ml/cm3 versus 0.017 ml/cm3, respectively). Testicular artery wall thickness (average 192.5, 229.0, and 290.0 microm, respectively) and arterial-venous blood distance in the TVC (average 330.5, 373.7, and 609.4 microm, respectively) were smallest in B. indicus, intermediary in crossbred, and greatest in B. taurus bulls (P<0.05); the proximity between arterial and venous blood was consistent with the estimated decrease in arterial blood temperature after passage through the TVC (5.9, 5.0, and 2.9 degrees C, in B. indicus, crossbred, and B. taurus bulls, respectively). In crossbred and B. taurus bulls, there was a positive top-to-bottom scrotal temperature gradient and a negative testicular subtunic temperature gradient. However, in B. indicus bulls, both scrotal and testicular subtunic temperatures gradients were positive. Differences in the vascular arrangement, characteristics of the artery (e.g. wall thickness) or thickness of the tunica albuginea may have affected the testicular arterial blood and subtunic temperatures in B. indicus bulls. Better testicular thermoregulatory capability was associated with increased scrotal shape (pendulosity), testicular artery length and volume, and top-to-bottom gradient of the distance between the artery wall and the veins in the TVC. Increased semen quality was associated with increased testicular volume and scrotal subcutaneous (SQT) temperature gradient, and with decreased scrotal surface and testicular temperatures. Increased sperm production was associated with increased testicular artery volume, testicular volume, and SQT temperature gradient, and with decreased testicular artery wall thickness, scrotal circumference (SC), and scrotal surface, testicular subtunic, and epididymal temperatures. In conclusion, morphology of the TVC may contribute to the greater resistance of B. indicus bulls to high ambient temperatures by conferring a better testicular blood supply and by facilitating heat transfer between the testicular artery and veins. Testicular thermoregulation was associated with opposing scrotal and testicular subtunic temperatures gradients only in crossbred and B. taurus bulls. Scrotal, TVC, and testicular morphology influence testicular thermoregulatory capability and were associated with differences in semen quality and sperm production.     

Effects of scrotal insulation on sperm production,semen quality,and testicular echotexture in Bos indicus and Bos indicus x Bos taurus bulls

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the effects of scrotal insulation on sperm production, semen quality, and testicular echotexture in Bos indicus and Bos indicus x Bos taurus crossbred bulls. In one experiment, B. indicus bulls (n=12) were allocated to control and whole-scrotum insulation groups, while in a second experiment, crossbred bulls (n=21) were allocated into control, whole-scrotum, and scrotal-neck insulation groups. Insulation was applied for 4 days (start of insulation = Day 0) and semen collection and testicular ultrasonographic examinations were performed twice weekly until Day 35. Sperm concentration and total sperm output during the post-insulation period were greater in control groups, but significant differences were observed only in B. indicus bulls. Overall, sperm motility in scrotal-insulated B. indicus bulls was lower (P<0.05) than in the control group. After whole-scrotum insulation in crossbred bulls, sperm motility was lower (P<0.05) than pre-insulation levels between Days 21 and 31, and lower than control levels on Day 24. The proportion of normal sperm after whole-scrotum insulation was lower than pre-insulation and control values from Day 11 to the end of the experiment in B. indicus bulls (P<0.05 from Days 14 to 21 and on Day 27), and from Days 14 to 25 in crossbred bulls (P<0.05 on Days 14 and 18). Insulation of the scrotal neck in crossbred bulls did not significantly affect semen quality. Loose sperm heads (Day 11), midpiece defects (Days 11 and 14), and acrosome defects (Days 27 and 31) increased (P<0.05) in insulated B. indicus bulls, while proximal cytoplasmic droplets (Days 14, 18 and 27 in B. indicus; Days 24 and 27 in crossbred bulls) and sperm vacuoles (Days 18 and 21 in B. indicus; Day 18 in crossbred bulls) increased (P<0.05) in whole-scrotum insulation groups in both experiments. There was considerable variation among bulls in the incidence of specific sperm defects. The timing of appearance of sperm defects after insulation provided insights into the pathogenesis of specific abnormalities. Neither whole-scrotum nor scrotal-neck insulation affected testicular echotexture in either experiment. In conclusion, whole-scrotum insulation resulted in decreased sperm production and semen quality in B. indicus and B. indicus x B. taurus bulls, but those changes were not associated with changes in testicular echotexture.     

Breed and other effects on reproductive traits and breeding soundness categorization in young beef bulls in Florida

Yearling, grass-fed, beef bulls at the USDA Subtropical Agricultural Research Station, Brooksville, Florida, were assessed for physical and semen traits in January, April, July and October of 1991 (Trial 1) and 1992 (Trial 2). Bulls were given a breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) using revised semen and scrotal circumference (SC) criteria. In Trial 1, the bulls consisted of Angus (n = 15), Brahman (n = 14), Hereford (n = 15) and Senepol (n = 14). In Trial 2, the breeds were Angus (n = 15), Brahman (n = 16), Romosinuano (n = 13) and Nellore x Brahman (n = 9). Trial bulls generally showed delayed growth compared with grain-fed bulls in temperate environments. Breed influenced semen traits (percentage sperm motility, normal spermatozoa and those with primary abnormalities) in both trials. Temperate Bos taurus breeds (Angus, Hereford) were generally superior to Bos indicus breeds (Brahman, Nellore x Brahman). Tropically-adapted Bos taurus breeds (Senepol, Romosinuano) were intermediate for those traits tested. In general, tropically-adapted Bos taurus breeds were more similar in reproductive development to temperate Bos taurus than to Bos indicus breeds. Breed by test period interactions occurred and were mainly influenced by delayed sexual maturity of Bos indicus bulls. Qualitative semen traits increased with bull age, particularly from 12 to 18 mo. Scrotal circumference development was slower in the Bos indicus breeds. Bulls of satisfactory BSE status at 18.1 to 22 mo of age were 73.9% in Trial 1 and 58.5% in Trial 2. Brahman bulls had the least satisfactory BSE scores in both years (Trial 1, 44.4%; Trial 2, 22.2%). Most bulls failed to achieve satisfactory BSE status due to a small SC relative to age (Trial 1, 66%; Trial 2, 72%). The most efficacious use of the BSE was > or = 15 mo in Bos taurus bulls and > 18 mo for Bos indicus bulls. Although the BSE has proven to be useful for the assessment of young, pasture-raised bulls in semi-tropical environments, use of SC thresholds linked more with growth traits than with calendar age would improve comparisons of relative reproductive development in such bulls, particularly those of Bos indicus derivation.     

Growth and reproductive development from weaning through 20 months of age among breeds of bulls in subtropical Florida

To determine the effect of breed on growth and reproductive development, weaned bulls in each of 2 yr were managed as a single group for approximately a year. In Year 1, the study group consisted of 24 Angus, 24 Brahman, 20 Hereford and 14 Senepol bulls, while in Year 2, it contained 25 Angus, 17 Brahman. 13 Romosinuano and 9 Nellore x Brahman bulls. Body and testicular growth measurements were recorded at 6-wk intervals. At approximately 1 yr of age and quarterly thereafter (4 periods), bulls were evaluated for libido, pubertal status, and GnRH-induced LH and testosterone secretion. Significant breed-by-age interactions occurred for most growth measurements. Brahman bulls (Bos indicus ) were (P < 0.05) older and heavier at puberty than Angus, Hereford, Senepol and Romosinuano bulls (Bos taurus ). Libido scores were lowest for Brahman and Nell ore x Brahman bulls (Bos indicus ). highest for Angus and Hereford bulls (temperate Bos taurus breeds) and intermediate for Senepol and Romosinuano bulls (tropical Bos taurus breeds; P < 0.05). Differences were not consistent among breeds or between years for GnRH-induced LH secretion. In both years, basal testosterone concentrations and areas under the GnRH-induced testosterone curve were higher (P < 0.05) for Angus and Hereford bulls (temperate breeds) than for Brahman, Senepol, Romosinuano and Nellore x Brahman bulls (tropical breeds). In conclusion, reproductive development of Senepol and Romosinuano bulls (tropical Bos taurus breeds) was more similar to Angus and Hereford bulls (temperate Bos taurus breeds) than to Brahman and Nellore x Brahman bulls (Bos indicus ).     

Sexual development in early- and late-maturing Bos indicus and Bos indicus x Bos taurus crossbred bulls in Brazil

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate sexual development in early- and late-maturing Nelore (Bos indicus) and Canchim (3/8 Bos indicus x 5/8 Bos taurus crossbred) bulls and to determine predictors of sexual precocity, and pubertal and maturity status. In Experiment 1, 12 Nelore bulls where examined from 300 to 900 days of age. Puberty was characterized by an ejaculate containing > or =50 million sperm with > or =10% motile sperm, and maturity by an ejaculate containing > or =70% morphologically normal sperm. In Experiment 2, 28 Canchim bulls where examined from 295 to 488 days of age and puberty was characterized by an ejaculate containing > or =30% motile sperm. In both experiments, bulls were classified as early- or late-maturing based on age at puberty. Early-maturing bulls were younger (P < 0.05) than late-maturing bulls at puberty (527 days versus 673 days in Experiment 1 and 360 days versus 461 days in Experiment 2) and at maturity (660 days versus 768 days in Experiment 1). In general, early-maturing bulls were heavier and had greater scrotal circumference (SC), testes, and testicular vascular cone diameter than late-maturing bulls during the experimental period. Scrotal circumference adjusted for 365 days of age was a good predictor of sexual precocity; minimum yearling SC of 19 and 24 cm for Nelore and Canchim bulls, respectively, had the best predictive values. Early-maturing bulls were lighter and had smaller SC at puberty than late-maturing bulls; therefore, sexual precocity was not related to the attainment of a threshold body weight or testicular size earlier, but to lower thresholds in early-maturing bulls. When predictors of pubertal status were evaluated, SC had the best sensitivity/specificity relationship in Nelore bulls, and high sensitivity and specificity in Canchim bulls. When predictors of sexual maturity were evaluated in Nelore bulls, age, weight, and SC had similar sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. At puberty, approximately 60% of the sperm present in the ejaculate were morphologically defective. Changes in semen quality after puberty in Nelore bulls were characterized by increased motility and proportion of morphologically normal sperm, with a decrease in the proportion of major sperm defects. In conclusion, early-maturing bulls were more developed in the pre-pubertal period and attained puberty at earlier stages of body and testicular development than late-maturing bulls. Yearling SC could be used to select bulls for sexual precocity and SC was the best predictor of pubertal status. Age, weight, and SC were equally good predictors of sexual maturity in B. indicus bulls.     

Seasonal variations in testicular consistency,scrotal circumference and spermiogramme parameters of extensively reared Brahman (Bos indicus) bulls in the tropics

Twenty-five mature Brahman (Bos indicus) extensively reared breeding bulls were clinically examined and electroejaculated at monthly intervals for 13 months to study if testicular consistency (TC), scrotal circumference (SC), sperm motility and morphology show seasonal variation under tropical conditions. Changes in SC were positively related to body condition (BC) (beta = 0.7 cm, P < 0.001) and age (P < 0.01). These changes were, however, not associated with deviations in TC, sperm motility or morphology (P > 0.05). Sperm motility was higher in samples collected during the breeding season than in samples collected at other times (62 versus 52%, LSM, P < 0.01). The frequency of bent tails with cytoplasmic droplet entrapped fluctuated between monthly ejaculates, (LSM range 3-21%, P < 0.05). However, there was no relationship between these fluctuations and environmental temperature, rainfall or changes in BC, TC or SC of the bulls (P > 0.05). Other sperm abnormalities did not change significantly during the study period. The absence of a relationship between any of the climatic variables studied and SC, TC and sperm motility or morphology, respectively, indicates that temperature is not a main factor influencing reproductive performance in Brahman bulls in the tropics. On the contrary, the changes found in BC followed by variations in SC suggest that nutrition may be a major factor affecting seasonal variations in male reproductive parameters, especially testicular size, in these sires.     

Seasonal variation in semen quality in Bos indicus and Bos taurus bulls raised under tropical conditions

In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that Bos taurus taurus bulls have greater reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lower activity of antioxidant enzymes in their semen than Bos taurus indicus bulls. Sixteen Simmental bulls (B. t. taurus) and 11 Nelore bulls (B. t. indicus) were managed extensively in a tropical environment. Semen was collected twice annually (summer and winter) for 2 consecutive years. Simmental bulls had significantly higher percentages of major sperm defects during the summer than the winter (20.3+/-3.1% versus 12.2+/-2.4%, respectively; mean+/-S.E.M.). There was an interaction of breed and season for minor sperm defects (P=0.037; highest in Nelore bulls in the summer) and an effect of season on total defects (P=0.066; higher in summer). To evaluate oxidative damage, malondialdehyde (lipid-peroxidation metabolite) concentrations were indirectly measured by semen concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS); these were higher in summer than in winter (728.1+/-79.3ng/mL versus 423.8+/-72.6ng/mL, respectively; P=0.01). Glutathione peroxidase/redutase (GPx) activity in semen was higher in Simmental versus Nelore bulls (741.6+/-62.1 versus 510.2+/-62.8; P<0.01). However, superoxide dismutase (SOD), another antioxidant enzyme, was not significantly affected by breed or season. There were correlations between TBARS and sperm primary defects during the summer for both Simmental and Nelore bulls (r=0.59, P=0.021 and r=0.40, P=0.034, respectively), and between SOD and primary defects during summer for Simmental bulls only (r=-0.51, P=0.041). In conclusion, there was a higher level of lipid peroxidation (ROS) in semen of Simmental versus Nelore bulls; apparently the higher GPx activity in Simmental bulls was insufficient to avoid damage that occurred concurrent with increased ROS production during the summer.     

Influence of season of birth on growth and reproductive development of Brahman bulls

Seasonal effects on reproduction are more dramatic in Bos indicus than Bos taurus cattle. This experiment evaluated reproductive development of fall- (n=7) versus spring- (n = 10) born Brahman bulls to determine if season of birth affects reproductive development. Measurements of growth and reproductive development began after weaning and continued at bi-weekly intervals until each bull reached sexual maturity. Different stages of sexual development were classified according to characteristics of the ejaculate and included first sperm in the ejaculate, puberty (> 50 x 10(6) sperm/ejaculate), and sexual maturity (two ejaculates with > 500 = 10(6) sperm/ejaculate). Average daily increases in all measured traits were similar in fall- and spring-born bulls and there were no differences in age, body weight, scrotal circumference, or paired testis volume between groups at first sperm or puberty. However, fall-born bulls were older (P < 0.05) than spring-born bulls at sexual maturity (553 days versus 481 days, respectively) as the interval between puberty and sexual maturity was longer (P < 0.05) in fall- than in spring-born bulls (82 days versus 54 days, respectively). The prolonged interval between puberty and sexual maturity in fall-born calves coincided with a short photoperiod (winter) whereas the short interval between puberty and sexual maturity in spring-born calves coincided with a long photoperiod (summer). In conclusion, season of birth affected sexual development; photoperiod might be involved in regulating testicular function immediately after puberty in Brahman bulls.     

Determination of onset of puberty in Zebu bulls under tropical conditions of northern Nigeria

Age at puberty and related phenomena were investigated in White Fulani (Bunaji - WF), Sokoto Gudali (SG) and Friesian X Bunaji (FRXWF) Zebu bulls from 28 weeks to 72 weeks of age. Pubertal traits studied included body weight, heart girth, scrotal circumference and sperm production. Puberty was defined as the age at which an ejaculated semen contained at least 50 x 10(6) spermatozoa with a minimum of 10% motility. Age at puberty was 66.89 +/- 1.0, 73.4 +/- 2.2 and 62.4 +/- 10.7 weeks for WF, SG and FRXWF bulls respectively. The Bunaji bulls were significantly younger than the Sokoto Gudali bulls at production of first motile sperm cell and also at puberty (P<0.01). The SG bulls were significantly heavier (P<0.01) and had larger heart girth (P<0.05) than the FRxWF at production of first motile sperm cells. Body weight and heart girth for all the breeds were not different at puberty (P>0.1). Scrotal circumference of the bulls between the breeds at production of first motile sperm cells and at puberty, did not differ (P 0.>1), despite the variations in age, weight and heart girth at production of first motile sperm cell and at puberty. It is concluded from the data obtained that the indigenous breeds of bulls (Bos indicus ) seem to attain puberty later than exotic breeds (Bos taurus ). The inter-play of genetic, nutritional and environmental factors as a contribution to this delay in attainment of puberty could not be ruled out.     

Breeding soundness evaluations of Senepol bulls in the US Virgin Islands

The breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) was used to evaluate Senepol (Bos taurus) bulls (n = 495) on St. Croix over a 7-year period. Young, unproven bulls (10-26 months of age) and breeding bulls (16 months to 8.5 years) were tested prior to sale or use in breeding. Inbreeding coefficients were determined for a subset of bulls (n = 290). The percentage of bulls passing the BSE increased (P < 0.0001) with age. Bulls that passed had a higher percentage (P < 0.0001) of normal and motile sperm as well as a larger (P < 0.0001) scrotal circumference than bulls that failed. No bulls failed the BSE for physical soundness traits or other health reasons. The incidence of testicular hypoplasia was 2.5 and 3.3% and the incidence of cryptorchidism was 1.4 and 0.9% in 12- and 16-month-old bulls, respectively, with no occurrence in bulls >20 months. The proportion of all bulls that failed the BSE and received an Unsatisfactory rating for scrotal circumference or sperm motility decreased (P < 0.0001) from >90 to <25% with age. The proportion of all bulls that failed the BSE and received an Unsatisfactory rating for sperm morphology decreased (P < 0.0001) from 99 to 83.3% with age. The inbreeding coefficient was higher (P < 0.03) in bulls that failed the BSE than in those that passed (2.24 +/- 0.19% versus 1.40 +/- 0.32%, respectively). There was a tendency for bulls with testicular hypoplasia or cryptorchidism to have a higher (P = 0.09) inbreeding coefficient than bulls with normal testes (2.90 +/- 0.46% versus 2.13 +/- 0.11%, respectively). In conclusion, Senepol bulls raised under tropical conditions had a low probability of passing the BSE at young ages, but the passing rate increased with age. Older Senepol bulls were more likely to fail the BSE due to abnormal sperm morphology than due to inadequate testicular size or sperm motility. To prevent unnecessary culling, a BSE should not be performed on Senepol bulls <16 months old.     

Spermiogram and sperm reserves in hybrid Bos indicus X Bos taurus bulls after scrotal insulation

Scrotal insulation for 48 h raised subcutaneous scrotal temperature by 4 degrees C in hybrid Bos indicus X Bos taurus bulls. The incidence of decapitated spermatozoa in the ejaculate increased significantly between 6 and 14 days and that of protoplasmic droplets and tail abnormalities between 20 and 23 days after insulation, respectively. Simultaneously, the percentages of spermatozoa with lost and damaged acrosomes increased significantly 12-17 days after insulation. At slaughter 23 days after scrotal insulation sperm production rates and gonadal reserves had not been affected by insulation, but epididymal reserves were markedly reduced, particularly in the cauda. Elevated testicular temperature therefore had an effect on immature spermatozoa in the caput epididymidis and on spermatids, but it is suggested that selective sperm resorption in the rete testis and excurrent ducts may prevent some of these changes being expressed in the ejaculate.     

A comparison of morphometric characteristics of sperm from fertile Bos taurus and Bos indicus bulls in Brazil

The current work has as main objective the systematic investigation of sperm morphometric characteristics of fertile Bos taurus and Bos indicus bulls living in Brazil by using several traditional as well as more modern and advanced computer vision concepts and methodologies. Ten smears of B. taurus semen and ten smears of B. indicus semen have been evaluated. Sperm morphology was quantified in terms of the following morphological features: head area, perimeter, width, length, width:length ratio, ellipticity, shape factor, width of sperm basis, the three first Fourier values, symmetry and hydrodynamics. Morphometric differences have been observed between the sperm cell of B. taurus and B. indicus bulls. The sperm cells of Zebu bulls tend to be smaller and less elliptic, however without modifying hydrodynamic, side symmetry and width of sperm head base. These differences clearly indicate that the geometrical characterization of bull sperm cells should take into account morphological peculiarities that are specific to each subspecies. Another important contribution is the identification that morphological differences implied by bulls of different fertility, as characterized by other authors, were found to be less as compared with those obtained in the current study where highly fertile animals from the two subspecies were studied.     

Adjusted 200-day scrotal size as a predictor of 365-day scrotal circumference

Data collected from 264 bulls of 13 beef breeds at the Michigan Bull Test Station was evaluated to determine if scrotal circumference (SC) adjusted to 200 d of age could be used to predict scrotal circumference at 1 yr of age. Scrotal circumference of each bull was recorded on arrival at the test station and at the time of breeding soundness examination (BSE) and was adjusted to 200 and 365 d of age, respectively. Bulls with adjusted SC>34.0 cm by 365 d of age averaged a larger SC at 200 d (P < 0.0001) and faster scrotal growth (P < 0.0001) than bulls with a 365 d adjusted SC /= 23.0 cm had a 95% probability of achieving SC > 34.0 cm by one year of age. Calves measuring < 23 cm at 200 d had a 54% probability of achieving > 34.0 cm scrotal size by one year. This information can contribute to the selection of breeding bulls that will achieve desirable scrotal size by one year of age.     

Nuclear-cytoplasmic interactions affect in utero developmental capacity, phenotype, and cellular metabolism of bovine nuclear transfer fetuses

We generated a clone of bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos using oocyte pools from defined maternal sources to study nuclear-cytoplasmic interactions. Nucleocytoplasmic hybrids were reconstructed with Bos taurus (Brown Swiss) granulosa cells and oocytes that contained B. taurus A (Simmental), B. taurus B (Simmental), or Bos indicus (Dwarf Zebu) cytoplasm. Another set of embryos was reconstructed with randomly selected Brown Swiss (B. taurus R) oocytes. Embryo transfer resulted in nine (12.5%), nine (13.8%), three (50%), and 11 (16.7%) Day 80 fetuses, of which eight (11.1%), three (4.6%), three (50%), and 10 (15.2%) were viable, respectively. The proportion of viable fetuses was affected by cytoplasm (likelihood ratio test, P < 0.02) and was higher for embryos with B. indicus cytoplasm than for the B. taurus A (P < 0.05) and B (P < 0.01) groups. Furthermore, the proportion of surviving Day 80 fetuses was reduced for B. taurus B as compared with B. taurus A and B. taurus R cytoplasm (P < 0.05 and P < 0.02). Body weight of nucleocytoplasmic hybrid fetuses was not significantly different from Brown Swiss control fetuses produced by artificial insemination (AI), but fetuses reconstructed with random cytoplasts of the same breed as the nuclear donor exhibited overgrowth (P < 0.01) and a higher coefficient of variation in weight. Furthermore, body weight, crown rump length, thorax circumference (P < 0.05), and femur length (P < 0.01) of fetuses with B. taurus A cytoplasm differed from fetuses with B. taurus R cytoplasms. Fetal skin, heart, and liver cells with B. indicus cytoplasm showed a greater increase in number per time period (P < 0.001) and oxygen consumption rate per cell (skin and liver, P < 0.001; heart, P < 0.08) in comparison with their counterparts with B. taurus A cytoplasm. These data point to complex oocyte cytoplasm-dependent epigenetic modifications and/or nuclear DNA-mitochondrial DNA interactions with relevance to nuclear transfer and other reproductive technologies such as ooplasmic transfer in human assisted reproduction.     

Testicular shape and its relationship to sperm production in mature Holstein bulls

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between testicular shape, scrotal circumference (SC) and sperm production. Twenty-seven mature Holstein bulls were evaluated subjectively and objectively for testicular shape as indicated by testicular length and width, then placed in 1 of 3 groups. Group 1 contained 17 bulls with a normal ovoid testicular shape and a length to width ratio of 1.61:1 +/- 0.01 (SEM). Group 2 was composed of 4 bulls with a long, slender testicular shape and a length to width ratio of 1.95:1 +/- 0.06 (SEM). Group 3 was comprised of 6 bulls with spheroid-shaped testicles and a length to width ratio of 1.3:1 +/- 0.03 (SEM). All the groups were statistically different for length to width ratios (P < 0.05). Length measurements from cranial to caudal pole of the testis proper were also different between groups (P < 0.05). Width or testicular diameter was different between Group 2 and Group 3 at P < 0.05; however, there was no difference between Group 1 and Group 2 or between Group 1 and Group 3. Predicted volumes and weights of testicles were not significantly different between groups. Scrotal circumference measurements were significantly different between groups (P < 0.05). Group 1 had an average SC of 43.07 +/- 0.36 cm (SEM), Group 2 of 39.33 +/- 1.18 cm (SEM) and Group 3 of 46.22 +/- 0.69 cm (SEM). Sperm production for a twice daily, 2-day-per-week collection schedule revealed a statistically significant difference for sperm output. A total of 2742 ejaculates was evaluated. A total of 1818 ejaculates was evaluated in Group 1, 440 ejaculates in Group 2 and 484 ejaculates in Group 3. The mean spermatozoal harvest per day for Group 1 bulls was 13.62 +/- 0.09 x 10(9) (SEM). Group 2 bulls with the longer-shaped testicles produced 14.82 +/- 0.18 x 10(9) (SEM) spermatozoa per day, and Group 3 bulls, with the more rounded testicle shape and the significantly larger SC produced 11.72 +/- 0.64 x 10(9)(SEM) sperm cells per day. All 3 groups were statistically different at the P = 0.05 level. The results suggest that prediction of sperm production may be dependent on factors other than SC, testicular volume, or weight. Testicular shape may influence sperm output in mature Holstein bulls.     

Influence of sire and sire breed (Gyr versus Holstein) on establishment of pregnancy and embryonic loss in lactating Holstein cows during summer heat stress

Heat stress has negative effects on pregnancy rates of lactating dairy cattle. There are genetic differences in tolerance to heat stress; Bos taurus indicus (B. t. indicus) cattle and embryos are more thermotolerant than Bos taurus taurus (B. t. taurus). In the present study, the effects of sire and sire breed on conception and embryonic/fetal loss rates of lactating Holstein cows during the Brazilian summer were determined. In Experiment 1, cows (n=302) were AI after estrus detection or at a fixed-time with semen from one Gyr (B. t. indicus) or one Holstein sire (B. t. taurus). Pregnancy was diagnosed 80 days after AI. In Experiment 2, cows (n=811) were AI with semen from three Gyr and two Holstein sires. Pregnancy was diagnosed at 30-40 and at 60-80 days after AI. Cows diagnosed pregnant at the first examination but non-pregnant at the second were considered as having lost their embryo or fetus. Data were analyzed by logistic regression. The model considered the effect of sire within breed, sire breed, days postpartum, period of lactation, and AI type (AI after estrus versus fixed-time). There was no effect of the AI type, days postpartum or milk production on conception or embryonic loss rates. The use of Gyr bulls increased pregnancy rate when compared to Holstein bulls [9.1% (60/657) versus 5.0% (23/456), respectively, P=0.008; data from Experiments 1 and 2 combined]. Additionally, in Experiment 2, cows inseminated using semen from sire #4 (Gyr) had lower embryonic loss (10%) when compared with other B. t. indicus (35.3% and 40%) or B. t. taurus sires (18.2% and 38.5%, P=0.03). In conclusion, the use of B. t. indicus sires may result in higher conception rates in lactating Holstein cows during summer heat stress. Moreover, sire can affect embryonic loss and selection of bulls according to this criterion may result in higher parturition rates in lactating Holstein cows.     

The testicular vascular cone, scrotal thermoregulation, and their relationship to sperm production and seminal quality in beef bulls

The objectives of the present study were to determine changes with age and relationships among characteristics of the testicular artery, scrotal surface temperature, scrotal circumference, testicular consistency, seminal quality and sperm production. Beef bulls aged 6 mo (n=12), 1 yr (n=12), 2 yr (n=11), and 3 yr (n=12) were used in this study. The mean length of the testicular artery as well as the length, width, and surface area of a latex cast of the testicular artery all increased between 6 mo and 1 yr of age (P<0.01). Wall thickness of the testicular artery and testicular arterial-venous distance in the spermatic cord decreased with age and with proximity to the testicle (P<0.01). Distance from the testicular vascular cone to the inner surface of the skin at the top of the scrotal neck (primarily fat) increased between 1 and 3 yr of age (P<0.01), and was associated with an increased top scrotal surface temperature (P<0.09). Increased epididymal sperm reserves were associated with an increase in testicular consistency, scrotal circumference and scrotal surface temperature gradient, and with a decrease in testicular arterial wall thickness and testicular vascular cone to skin distance. A decrease in sperm defects was associated with an increase in testicular consistency and with a decrease in the average scrotal surface temperature. Increased sperm motility was associated with increased scrotal circumference and a decreased top testicular vascular cone to skin distance. These findings emphasize the importance of thermoregulation to sperm production and seminal quality.     

Effect of early luteolysis in progesterone-based timed AI protocols in Bos indicus, Bos indicus x Bos taurus, and Bos taurus heifers

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of treatment with an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device (CIDR) and estradiol benzoate (EB) on follicular dynamics in Bos indicus (n=23), Bos taurus (n=25), and cross-bred (n=23) heifers. To assess the influence of reduced serum progesterone concentrations during 8 days of treatment with a progesterone-releasing device on follicular dynamics, half of the heifers received PGF at CIDR insertion (Day 0; 3 x 2 factorial design). Mean (+/-S.E.M.) serum progesterone concentrations during CIDR treatment varied (P<0.05) among genetic groups: B. indicus (5.4+/-0.1 ng/mL), B. taurus (3.3+/-0.0 ng/mL), and cross-bred (4.3+/-0.1 ng/mL). Maximum diameter of the dominant follicle (DF) was smaller (P<0.01) in B. indicus heifers (9.5+/-0.5 mm) than in cross-bred (12.3+/-0.4 mm) or B. taurus heifers (11.6+/-0.5 mm). B. indicus experienced lower (P<0.01) ovulation rate (39.1%) than did B. taurus (72.7%) and cross-bred (84.0%). Heifers treated with PGF on Day 0 had lower (P<0.05) serum progesterone concentrations during progesterone treatment. The PGF treatment on Day 0 increased (P<0.01) the diameter of the DF (11.9+/-0.4 mm vs. 10.5+/-0.4 mm). Moreover, greater (P=0.02) ovulation rates (78.8 vs. 54.0%) occurred in heifers treated with PGF on Day 0. In summary, B. indicus heifers had greater serum progesterone concentrations, smaller DF diameter, and a lower ovulation rate compared to B. taurus heifers. Prostaglandin treatment on the day of CIDR insertion reduced serum progesterone during treatment, and resulted in increased maximum DF diameter and ovulation rate.     

Patterns of puberal development in Sahiwal and Brahman cross bulls in tropical Australia II. LH and testosterone concentrations before and after GnRH

Plasma LH and testosterone (T) concentrations were measured before (basal) and two hours after (peak) GnRH stimulation in 52 Bos indicus strain bulls between one and two years of age. The animals comprised 13 1 2 Brahman, 20 3 4 Brahman, 8 1 2 Sahiwal and 11 3 4 Sahiwal cross bulls and samples were collected at approximately seven week intervals. Basal- and peak-T concentrations increased between one and two years of age, and basal LH concentrations decreased; no changes in peak LH were noted over time. Peak-T concentrations were significantly correlated with scrotal circumference (SC), sperm per ejaculate and seminal fructose. Significant genotype differences were noted, Sahiwal cross bulls had higher peak-T concentrations at puberty than Brahman cross bulls.