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Kumar S, Magotra A, Kumar M, Dalal DS, Kumari S. Semen sexing and its impact on fertility and genetic gain in cattle. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:109-118. [PMID: 38501286 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199424000066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Semen sexing is among one of the most remarkable inventions of the past few decades in the field of reproductive biotechnology. The urge to produce offspring of a desired sex has remained since traditional times. Researchers have tried many methods for accurate semen sexing, but only the flow cytometry method has proved to be effective for commercial utilization. However, there were always concerns about the effects of sexed semen, especially on fertility and the rate of genetic gain. Some concerns were genuine because of factors such as low semen dosage in sexed semen straws and damage to sperm during the sorting process. Various researchers have conducted numerous studies to find out the effect of sexed semen on fertility and, in this article, we reflect on their findings. Initially, there were comparatively much lower conception rates (∼70% of conventional semen) but, with refinement in technology, this gap is bridging and the use of sexed semen will increase over time. Concerning genetic gain with use of sexed semen, a positive effect on rate of genetic progress with the use of sexed semen has been observed based on various simulation studies, although there has been a mild increase in inbreeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar
- Department of Livestock Farm Complex, LUVAS, Hisar125004, Haryana, India
| | - Ankit Magotra
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, LUVAS, Hisar125004, Haryana, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Livestock Farm Complex, LUVAS, Hisar125004, Haryana, India
| | - D S Dalal
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, LUVAS, Hisar125004, Haryana, India
| | - Sonu Kumari
- Department of Livestock Farm Complex, LUVAS, Hisar125004, Haryana, India
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Reese S, Pirez MC, Steele H, Kölle S. The reproductive success of bovine sperm after sex-sorting: a meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17366. [PMID: 34462506 PMCID: PMC8405645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96834-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the three decades since its inception, the sex-sorting technology has progressed significantly. However, field studies report conflicting findings regarding reproductive outcomes. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis of all trials published between 1999 and 2021. Non-return rates after 24 or 60 d (NRR 24/60), pregnancy, calving, abortion, and stillbirth rates were compared after AI with sex-sorted vs non-sorted sperm. Additionally, the impact of recent developments in the sex-sorting technology was assessed. Of 860 studies found, 45 studies (72 trials) provided extractable data and were included. Overall, the results of this meta-analysis provided evidence that the NRR 24/60 was diminished by 13%, pregnancy rates were reduced by 23% (25% cows, 21% heifers) and calving rates were reduced by 24% when using sex-sorted sperm. Enhancing the dosage to 4 million sex-sorted sperm/straw (including recent improvements, high vs low dose) as well as using fresh sex-sorted sperm (sorted vs non-sorted) increased pregnancy rate ratios by 7 percentage points. The refinement of the sex-sorting technology after 2015 resulted in a lowered reduction of pregnancy and calving rate of 19% and 23%, respectively. Whereas abortion rates were similar, the stillbirth of male calves was increased by 6.3%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Reese
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miguel Camara Pirez
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Heather Steele
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Guner B, Selcuk G, Guclu S, Sengul S, Altun I, Dikmen S, Gumen A. Comparison of pregnancy per AI of heifers inseminated with sex-sorted or conventional semen after oestrus detection or timed artificial insemination. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:1254-1260. [PMID: 34173990 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to compare the fertility after using sex-sorted or conventional semen either with oestrus detection (EST) or timed artificial insemination (TAI) in Holstein heifers. Holstein heifers were randomly assigned to one of the following treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Heifers in the EST group were inseminated with sex-sorted (n = 114) or conventional semen (n = 100) after spontaneous or induced oestrus. Heifers in the TAI, subjected to the 5-day Cosynch+Progesterone protocol (GnRH+P4 insertion-5d-PGF2α +P4 removal-1d-PGF2α -2d-GnRH+TAI), were inseminated with sex-sorted (n = 113) or conventional semen (n = 88). Statistical analyses were performed using PROC GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). Overall P/AI was 60.7% for EST and 54.2% for TAI regardless of types of semen and 68.1% for conventional and 48.9% for sex-sorted semen regardless of insemination strategies. Fertility of heifers inseminated with either sex-sorted (53.5%; 44.2%) or conventional (69.0%; 67.0%) semen did not differ between EST and TAI respectively. Besides, the interaction between the semen type and the insemination strategy was not significant for P/AI. The embryonic loss was significantly greater with sex-sorted semen (17.1%) compared to conventional semen (1.6%). There was no sire effect with sex-sorted semen on P/AI (52.6% vs. 46.2%) and embryonic loss (16.4% vs. 18.0%). As expected, sex-sorted semen resulted in more female calves (89.8% vs. 51.6%) than conventional semen. Thus, sex-sorted semen can be used with 5-day Cosynch+Progesterone protocol to eliminate the inadequate oestrus detection and to increase female calves born in dairy heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Guner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Balıkesir, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | - Serdal Dikmen
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Gumen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
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Pancarci SM, Güngör Ö, Harput O, Calisici O. Effect of One-Day Delaying CIDR Administration in 5-Day Cosynch Protocol in Dairy Heifers. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051402. [PMID: 34069078 PMCID: PMC8156271 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In modern dairy farms, the optimum age for first calving is 23 to 25 months, to achieve this goal heifers having to conceive at 15 months of age using fixed-time artificial insemination. Despite the difference of follicular dynamics between heifers and cows, the dairy cow based synchronization protocols need to be modified for dairy heifers. We investigated the effect of one-day delaying administration of intravaginal progesterone device (CIDR) at the beginning of 5-day Cosynch protocol. Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was significantly declined in CIDR-4 (4-day CIDR application instead of 5 days) group as heifers’ age proceeded. We have shown that there was no benefit of one-day delay of CIDR administration in 5-day Cosynch protocol on P/AI. However, higher P/AI in 5-day CIDR synchronization in aged heifers could reveal the necessity of longer progesterone administration in Cosynch protocol for better fertility. Abstract Effect of one-day delaying progesterone administration at the beginning of 5-day Cosynch protocol was investigated in Holstein heifers for the first artificial insemination (AI). Heifers received a synchronized ovulation and timed AI (TAI) with CIDR inserted on day (d) 0 (CIDR-5; n = 206) or d 1 (CIDR-4; n = 192). In both group, GnRH was administered on d 0 followed by a single PGF2α injection and CIDR removal five days later from GnRH. On d 8, TAI and GnRH administration were concurrently conducted. Heifers detected in estrus up to 24 h prior to TAI were inseminated without GnRH administration. Rates of ovulation, accessory CL formation and new dominant follicle development following initial GnRH injection did not differ between groups. P/AI did not differ between CIDR-4 (44.3%, [85/192]) and CIDR-5 (51.9%, [107/206]) groups, respectively. Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was significantly (p < 0.01) declined as heifers’ age (12–13, 14, 15, 16 and17–21 months) proceeded in CIDR-4 group (55.6%, 52.1%, 37.9%, 35.7%, 32.4%) compared to those in CIDR-5 group (60.0%, 50.0%, 53.9%, 51.5%, 46.2%) respectively. In conclusion, there is no benefit for delaying CIDR administration in 5-day Cosynch protocol in dairy heifers. However, higher P/AI in CIDR-5 group in older heifers can be considered for reproductive management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Örsan Güngör
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur 15030, Turkey;
| | - Osman Harput
- UNSPED Dairy Farm Incorporation, Karaman 70500, Turkey;
| | - Oguz Calisici
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Foundation), 30173 Hannover, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-511-8567373
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Neculai-Valeanu AS, Ariton AM. Game-Changing Approaches in Sperm Sex-Sorting: Microfluidics and Nanotechnology. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11041182. [PMID: 33924241 PMCID: PMC8074747 DOI: 10.3390/ani11041182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sexing of sperm cells, including the capacity to preselect the sex of offspring prior to reproduction, has been a major target of reproductive biotechnology for a very long time. The advances in molecular biology, biophysics, and computer science over the past few decades, as well as the groundbreaking new methods introduced by scientists, have contributed to some major breakthroughs in a variety of branches of medicine. In particular, assisted reproduction is one of the areas in which emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and microfluidics may enhance the fertility potential of samples of sex-sorted semen, thus improving the reproductive management of farm animals and conservation programs. In human medicine, embryo sex-selection using in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is accepted only for medical reasons. Using sex-sorting before IVF would enable specialists to prevent sex-linked genetic diseases and prevent the discharge of embryos which are not suitable for transfer due to their sex. Abstract The utilization of sex-sorted sperm for artificial insemination and in-vitro fertilization is considered a valuable tool for improving production efficiency and optimizing reproductive management in farm animals, subsequently ensuring sufficient food resource for the growing human population. Despite the fact that sperm sex-sorting is one of the most intense studied technologies and notable progress have been made in the past three decades to optimize it, the conception rates when using sex-sorted semen are still under expectations. Assisted reproduction programs may benefit from the use of emergent nano and microfluidic-based technologies. This article addresses the currently used methods for sperm sex-sorting, as well as the emerging ones, based on nanotechnology and microfluidics emphasizing on their practical and economic applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andra-Sabina Neculai-Valeanu
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
- Department of Fundamental Sciences in Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Food and Animal Sciences, University of Applied Life Sciences and Environment “Ion Ionescu de la Brad”, 700490 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Adina Mirela Ariton
- Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding Dancu, 707252 Iasi, Romania;
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Keles E, Malama E, Bozukova S, Siuda M, Wyck S, Witschi U, Bauersachs S, Bollwein H. The micro-RNA content of unsorted cryopreserved bovine sperm and its relation to the fertility of sperm after sex-sorting. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:30. [PMID: 33413071 PMCID: PMC7792310 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-07280-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of sex-sorted sperm in cattle assisted reproduction is constantly increasing. However, sperm fertility can substantially differ between unsorted (conventional) and sex-sorted semen batches of the same sire. Sperm microRNAs (miRNA) have been suggested as promising biomarkers of bull fertility the last years. In this study, we hypothesized that the miRNA profile of cryopreserved conventional sperm is related to bull fertility after artificial insemination with X-bearing sperm. For this purpose, we analyzed the miRNA profile of 18 conventional sperm samples obtained from nine high- (HF) and nine low-fertility (LF) bulls that were contemporaneously used to produce conventional and sex-sorted semen batches. The annual 56-day non-return rate for each semen type (NRRconv and NRRss, respectively) was recorded for each bull. RESULTS In total, 85 miRNAs were detected. MiR-34b-3p and miR-100-5p were the two most highly expressed miRNAs with their relative abundance reaching 30% in total. MiR-10a-5p and miR-9-5p were differentially expressed in LF and HF samples (false discovery rate < 10%). The expression levels of miR-9-5p, miR-34c, miR-423-5p, miR-449a, miR-5193-5p, miR-1246, miR-2483-5p, miR-92a, miR-21-5p were significantly correlated to NRRss but not to NRRconv. Based on robust regression analysis, miR-34c, miR-7859 and miR-342 showed the highest contribution to the prediction of NRRss. CONCLUSIONS A set of miRNAs detected in conventionally produced semen batches were linked to the fertilizing potential of bovine sperm after sex-sorting. These miRNAs should be further evaluated as potential biomarkers of a sire's suitability for the production of sex-sorted sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esin Keles
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eleni Malama
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Siyka Bozukova
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Siuda
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Wyck
- Swissgenetics, CH-3052, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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Guner B, Erturk M, Yilmazbas-Mecitoglu G, Keskin A, Karakaya-Bilen E, Cakircali R, Serim E, Orman A, Gumen A. Effect of delaying the time of insemination with sex-sorted semen on pregnancy rate in Holstein heifers. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1411-1417. [PMID: 32744337 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the interval from onset of oestrus to time of artificial insemination (AI) to obtain the optimum pregnancy rate with sex-sorted semen in Holstein heifers. Heifers in oestrus were detected and inseminated only by using heat-rumination neck collar comprised electronic identification tag at the age of 13-14 months. Heifers (n = 283) were randomly assigned to one of three groups according to the timing of insemination at 12-16 hr (G1, n = 97), at 16.1-20 hr (G2, n = 94) and at 20.1-24 hr (G3, n = 92) after reaching the activity threshold. The mean duration of oestrus was 18.6 ± 0.1 hr, and mean peak activity was found at 7.5 ± 0.1 hr after activity threshold. The mean interval from activity threshold to ovulation was 29.4 ± 0.4 hr. The overall pregnancy per AI (P/AI) was 53.0% at 29-35 days and 50.9% at 60-66 days after AI. There was a significant reduction between G1 (13.8 ± 1.4 hr) and G3 (7.9 ± 1.4 hr) related to the intervals from AI to ovulation time. Sex-sorted semen resulted in significantly higher P/AI at 29-35 days when heifers inseminated in G3 (60.9%) after oestrus than those inseminated in G1 (49.5%) and G2 (48.9%). In terms of fertility, when the temperature-humidity index (THI) was below the threshold value (THI ≤65) at the time of AI, there was a tendency (≤65; 57.2% vs. > 65; 47.1%) for high pregnancy rate. There was no effect of sire on P/AI. In addition, the interaction of the technician with the time of AI was found significant, and three-way interaction of technician, sire and time of AI was tended to be significant on pregnancy rate. Thus, in addition to delaying the time of insemination (between 20.1 and 24 hr) after oestrous detection, THI and experienced technician were also found to be critical factors in increasing fertility with the use of sex-sorted semen in Holstein heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Guner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Balıkesir, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | | | - Gulnaz Yilmazbas-Mecitoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Abdulkadir Keskin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ebru Karakaya-Bilen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Siirt, Siirt, Turkey
| | - Rabia Cakircali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Enes Serim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Abdulkadir Orman
- Department of Zootechnics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Gumen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bursa Uludag, Bursa, Turkey
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Maicas C, Hutchinson IA, Cromie AR, Lonergan P, Butler ST. Characteristics of offspring derived from conventional and X-sorted bovine sperm. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:7509-7520. [PMID: 32505400 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this retrospective study was to compare survival during the first year of life and adult performance of offspring derived from artificial insemination (AI) with X-sorted or conventional sperm processed from the same ejaculates. We analyzed a data set that included AI of dairy heifers and lactating cows with fresh conventional sperm (3 × 106 sperm per straw), fresh X-sorted sperm (1 or 2 × 106 sperm per straw), or frozen X-sorted sperm (2 × 106 sperm per straw). The data set contained records of 5,179 offspring born on 396 farms. Offspring were classified as born from conventional sperm (CONV) if they were the product of an insemination with fresh conventional sperm, or born from X-sorted sperm (SS) if they were product of any of the 3 X-sorted sperm treatments. Generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the effect of sperm treatment on (1) survival during the first year of life; (2) reproductive performance, lactation performance, and survival of female offspring; and (3) slaughter characteristics of male offspring. Stillbirth rates and mortality rates during the first 2 mo of life were greater for male calves (2.8 and 5.0%, respectively) than for female calves (1.6 and 2.0%, respectively). No differences between offspring derived from SS and CONV were detected for incidences of stillbirth or mortality during the first 12 mo of life within sex of calf. Reproductive performance, milk volume, milk fat, milk protein yields during first; second; and third lactations, and survival to third lactation did not differ between female offspring derived from CONV and SS. Across all age groups, CONV steers had heavier carcasses than SS steers (325.3 vs. 318.3 kg), but there were no differences in weight between CONV and SS steers within any of the age groups (≤24, 25-27, 28-30, and >30 mo of age). The distribution of slaughter age did not differ between CONV and SS steers when the analysis was restricted to herds that reared steers derived from both types of sperm. Carcass conformation and fat scores of steers were not affected by sperm treatment. There was no difference in carcass weight between young bulls (≤2 yr) derived from CONV or SS. In conclusion, the results provide no evidence of differences in survival during the first year of life between offspring derived from CONV or SS, or for any of the reproductive and lactation performance characteristics studied between female offspring derived from CONV or SS. Modest differences in carcass weight between CONV and SS steers were detected, but this may reflect differences in management and husbandry in the rearing herds rather than the sex-sorting process. A controlled study using steers derived from conventional or X-sorted sperm from split ejaculates and reared under the same husbandry conditions is needed to clarify whether there is a true difference in body weight gain due to the sex-sorting process.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Maicas
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 C996; School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - I A Hutchinson
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 C996
| | - A R Cromie
- Irish Cattle Breeding Federation, Highfield House, Shinagh, Bandon, Co. Cork, Ireland P72 X050
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - S T Butler
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 C996.
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9
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Diers S, Heise J, Krebs T, Groenewold J, Tetens J. Effect of sexed semen on different production and functional traits in German Holsteins. Vet Anim Sci 2020; 9:100101. [PMID: 32734111 PMCID: PMC7386698 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2020.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Calf sex had an influence on calving ease and dystocia rates. Sexed semen within same calf sex had only minor effects on most traits. Stillbirth rate for the few male calves from semen sexed for females was 30.6%.
The aim of this study was to analyze possible effects of semen type (conventional vs. female sexed) and calf sex on fertility and production traits. For this purpose, field data of German Holstein heifers in Lower Saxony were evaluated. Sexed semen was mainly used for first insemination. 87.0% female calves were born from sexed semen, while 52.7% female calves were born from conventional semen. Heifers inseminated with sexed semen were on average 43 to 48 days younger at their first calving than heifers inseminated with conventional semen. Calf sex had an influence on the average calving ease and the dystocia rates. Male calves showed higher calving ease scores and caused a higher risk for dystocia than female calves. The semen type had no influence on these characteristics. Within the same calf sex, sexed semen had only minor effects on most traits, except for stillbirth rates: the stillbirth rate for male calves from female sexed semen was 30.6%, which was 2.86 times the stillbirth rate of male calves from conventional semen, possibly due to trisomies. Sexed semen played only a minor role for production traits in first lactations. The extrapolated 305-day milk yield was 200 kg lower for first calf heifers, which were inseminated with sexed semen compared to heifers inseminated with conventional semen. Fat and protein yield were 6 kg to 8 kg lower after use of sexed semen. Animals with female offspring from sexed semen showed higher survival rates than the other groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Diers
- Department of Animal Science, Georg-August-University, Burckhardtweg 2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - J Heise
- IT Solutions for Animal Production (vit), Heinrich-Schröder-Weg 1, Verden 27283, Germany
| | - T Krebs
- Department of Animal Science, Georg-August-University, Burckhardtweg 2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - J Groenewold
- Chamber of Agriculture Lower Saxony, Mars-la-Tour-Straße 6, Oldenburg 26121, Germany
| | - J Tetens
- Department of Animal Science, Georg-August-University, Burckhardtweg 2, Göttingen 37077, Germany
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Maicas C, Hutchinson IA, Kenneally J, Grant J, Cromie AR, Lonergan P, Butler ST. Fertility of fresh and frozen sex-sorted semen in dairy cows and heifers in seasonal-calving pasture-based herds. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:10530-10542. [PMID: 31447149 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Our objective in this study was to evaluate the reproductive performance of dairy heifers and cows inseminated with fresh or frozen sex-sorted semen (SS) in seasonal-calving pasture-based dairy herds. Ejaculates of 10 Holstein-Friesian bulls were split and processed to provide (1) fresh conventional semen at 3 × 106 sperm per straw (CONV); (2) fresh SS at 1 × 106 sperm per straw (SS-1M); (3) fresh SS semen at 2 × 106 sperm per straw (SS-2M); and (4) frozen SS at 2 × 106 sperm per straw (SS-FRZ). Generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the effect of semen treatment and other explanatory variables on pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI) in heifers (n = 3,214) and lactating cows (n = 5,457). In heifers, P/AI was greater for inseminations with CONV (60.9%) than with SS-FRZ (52.8%) but did not differ from SS-1M (54.2%) or SS-2M (53.5%). Cows inseminated with CONV had greater P/AI (48.0%) than cows inseminated with SS, irrespective of treatment (SS-1M, SS-2M, and S-FROZEN; 37.6, 38.9, and 40.6%, respectively). None of the SS treatments differed from each other with regard to P/AI in either heifers or cows. The relative performance of SS compared with CONV was also examined [i.e., relative P/AI = (SS P/AI)/(CONV P/AI) × 100]. Frozen SS achieved relative P/AI >84%. Bull affected P/AI in both heifers and cows, but no bull by semen treatment interaction was observed. In heifers, P/AI increased with increasing predicted transmitting ability for milk protein percentage. In cows, P/AI increased with increasing Economic Breeding Index (EBI) and with days in milk (DIM) at AI but decreased with increasing EBI milk subindex, parity and with DIM2. Cows in parity ≥5 had the lowest P/AI and differed from cows in parities 1, 2, or 3. Dispatch-to-AI interval of fresh semen did not affect P/AI in lactating cows, but a dispatch-to-AI interval by bull interaction was detected whereby P/AI was constant for most bulls but increased with greater dispatch-to-AI intervals for 2 bulls. In conclusion, frozen SS achieved greater P/AI relative to conventional semen than was previously reported in lactating cows. Fresh SS did not achieve greater P/AI than frozen SS, regardless of whether the sperm dose per straw was 1 × 106 or 2 × 106. A bull effect for all semen treatments, as well as a dispatch-to-AI interval by bull interaction for fresh semen, highlights the importance of using a large team of bulls for breeding management.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Maicas
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 P302; School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - I A Hutchinson
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 P302
| | - J Kenneally
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 P302
| | - J Grant
- Research Operations Group, Teagasc, Ashtown, Dublin 15, Ireland D15 DY05
| | - A R Cromie
- Irish Cattle Breeding Federation, Highfield House, Shinagh, Bandon, Co. Cork, Ireland P72 X050
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - S T Butler
- Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland P61 P302.
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11
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Niles AM, Fricke HP, Carvalho PD, Wiltbank MC, Hernandez LL, Fricke PM. Effect of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin 7 days after artificial insemination or at the time of embryo transfer on reproductive outcomes in nulliparous Holstein heifers. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:2593-2606. [PMID: 30692012 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to assess the effect of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) 7 d after artificial insemination (AI) or at the time of in vitro-fertilized (IVF) embryo transfer on reproductive outcomes, including progesterone (P4), interferon-tau stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB), and pregnancies per AI (P/AI) or pregnancies per embryo transfer (P/ET), in nulliparous Holstein heifers. Heifers in experiment 1 were randomly assigned to receive no treatment (control; n = 129) or 2,000 IU of hCG 7 d after AI to a detected estrus (estrus = experimental d 0; hCG; n = 132). Heifers in experiment 2 were randomly assigned to receive no treatment (control; n = 143) or 2,000 IU of hCG (hCG; n = 148) at transfer of an IVF embryo 7 d after the last GnRH treatment of a 5-d controlled internal drug release-synch protocol (last GnRH = experimental d 0). Blood samples were collected from a subgroup of heifers (experiment 1, n = 82; experiment 2, n = 104) at d 7, 11, 18, 20, 25, 28, and 32, and blood samples from heifers diagnosed pregnant were collected on d 35, 39, 46, 53, 60, and 67. Blood samples were assayed for P4 by RIA and for PSPB by ELISA, and expression of ISG15 was assessed in mRNA isolated from blood leukocytes on d 18 and 20. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and logistic regression using the MIXED and GLIMMIX procedures. In both experiments, treatment with hCG increased P4 concentrations from d 11 to 32; however, treatment did not affect P/AI or P/ET at d 32 or 67, PSPB concentrations from d 11 to 67 of pregnancy, or relative ISG15 mRNA concentrations on d 18 or 20. Heifers diagnosed not pregnant at d 32 in experiment 2 with an extended luteal phase (>20 d) and treated with hCG had greater relative ISG15 mRNA concentrations on d 20 than control heifers. Treatment with hCG did not affect pregnancy loss in experiment 1, whereas heifers treated with hCG at the time of IVF embryo transfer had fewer pregnancy losses from d 32 to 67 than control heifers. We concluded that treatment with 2,000 IU of hCG 7 d after AI or at the time of embryo transfer increased P4 concentrations without affecting P/AI or P/ET in nulliparous Holstein heifers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Niles
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - H P Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - P D Carvalho
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - M C Wiltbank
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - L L Hernandez
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706
| | - P M Fricke
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison 53706.
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12
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Masello M, Perez MM, Granados GE, Stangaferro ML, Ceglowski B, Thomas MJ, Giordano JO. Reproductive performance of replacement dairy heifers submitted to first service with programs that favor insemination at detected estrus, timed artificial insemination, or a combination of both. J Dairy Sci 2018; 102:1671-1681. [PMID: 30591332 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to compare the insemination dynamics and time to pregnancy for up to 100 d after the beginning of the artificial insemination period (AIP) for heifers managed with first artificial insemination (AI) service programs that relied primarily on insemination at detected estrus (AIE) after PGF2α treatments, timed artificial insemination (TAI), or a combination of both. Holstein heifers were randomly assigned to receive first AI service with sex-selected semen after 368 ± 10 d of age with (1) AIE after synchronization of estrus with up to 3 PGF2α treatments every 14 d starting on the first day of the AIP (PGF+AIE; n = 317). Heifers not AIE up to 9 d after the third PGF2α received a 5-d Cosynch protocol with progesterone supplementation [GnRH + controlled internal drug release insert (CIDR)-5 d-CIDR removal and PGF2α-3 d-GnRH and TAI] before TAI. Heifers detected in estrus from CIDR removal and PGF2α until the day before TAI received AIE with no GnRH treatment; (2) 2 PGF2α treatments 14 d apart with the second treatment at the beginning of the AIP (PGF+TAI; n = 334). Heifers received AIE for up to 9 d after the second PGF2α treatment. Heifers not AIE received TAI after the 5-d Cosynch protocol and (3) TAI after the 5-d Cosynch protocol (ALL-TAI; n = 315). Heifers failing to conceive to a previous AI received a subsequent AI with conventional semen at detected estrus or TAI after the 5-d Cosynch protocol. Binomial outcomes were analyzed by logistic regression, whereas time to AI and pregnancy were analyzed with Cox's regression. The hazard of first AI up to 45 d of the AIP was greater for ALL-TAI than for PGF+AIE [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.72; 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.45 to 2.03] and PGF+TAI (HR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.77), but similar for PGF+AIE and PGF+TAI (HR = 1.14; 95% CI = 0.97 to 1.33). A greater proportion of heifers received AIE in PGF+AIE (98.7%) than in PGF+TAI (78.5%). Overall, first service pregnancy per AI did not differ (PGF+AIE = 42.0%; PGF+TAI = 47.3%, ALL-TAI = 43.8%). Time to pregnancy was reduced for ALL-TAI compared with PGF+AIE (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.42), but was similar to that of PGF+TAI (HR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.96 to 1.33). Time to pregnancy did not differ for PGF+AIE and PGF+TAI (HR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.91 to 1.25). Median days to pregnancy were 27, 23, and 21 for heifers in PGF+AIE, PGF+TAI, and ALL-TAI, respectively. We concluded that an ALL-TAI program for first service reduced time to pregnancy, albeit a relatively small reduction, when compared with a program that relied primarily on AIE after induction of estrus with PGF2α treatments. The program that combined synchronization of estrus and TAI (PGF+TAI) resulted in similar time to pregnancy than the predominant TAI and predominant AIE programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Masello
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M M Perez
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - G E Granados
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M L Stangaferro
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - B Ceglowski
- Dairy Health and Management Services, Lowville, NY 13367
| | - M J Thomas
- Dairy Health and Management Services, Lowville, NY 13367
| | - J O Giordano
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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13
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Joezy-Shekalgorabi S, De Vries A. Impact of applying sex sorted semen on the selection proportion of the sire of dams selection pathway in a nucleus program. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2018; 31:1387-1392. [PMID: 29103290 PMCID: PMC6127570 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.17.0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective In a nucleus breeding scheme, the sire of dam’s pathway plays an important role in producing genetic improvement. Selection proportion is the key parameter for predicting selection intensity, through truncating the normal distribution. Semen sexing using flow cytometry reduces the number of vials of sperm that can be obtained from a proved bull. In addition, a lower fertility of this kind of sperm is expected because of the lower sperm dosage in sex sorted semen. Both of these factors could affect the selection proportion in the sire of dam’s pathway (pSD). Methods In the current study, through a deterministic simulation, effect of utilizing sex sorted semen on selection (pSD) was investigated in three different strategies including 1: continuous use of sex sorted semen in heifers (CS), 2: the use of sex sorted semen for the first two (S2) and 3: the first (S1) inseminations followed by conventional semen. Results Results indicated that the use of sex sorted semen has a negative impact on the sire of dams (SD) pathway due to increase in selection proportion. Consequently selection intensity was decreased by 10.24 to 20.57, 6.38 to 8.87 and 3.76 to 6.25 percent in the CS, S2, and S1 strategies, respectively. Conclusion Considering the low effect of sexed semen on genetic improvement in dam pathways, it is necessary to consider the joint effect of using sex sorted semen on the sire and dams pathway to estimate about the real effect of sexed semen on genetic improvement in a nucleus breeding scheme.
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14
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Jabarzareh A, Sadeghi-Sefidmazgi A, Ghorbani G, Cabrera V. Economic evaluation of sexed semen use in Iranian dairy farms according to field data. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:1271-1278. [PMID: 30011085 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this study, at first, the reproductive consequences of sexed semen use were quantified and then the cost-benefit of sexed semen use on Iranian commercial dairy farms was evaluated. Retrospective data collected during 2006 to 2013 from four large dairy farms in the Isfahan province of Iran were used for this study. These data included of 13,003 heifers records, from which 11.2% used sexed semen from 33 different bulls. All data were analysed using a multivariable logistical regression model, GENMOD procedure from SAS software. The analyses included economic values (EVs) when sexed semen was used in 1, 2 and 3 consecutive services compared with conventional semen use for all insemination. Results showed that rates of female born from sexed semen (86.3%) were 1.8 times higher than those from conventional semen (48.5%). Conception rates were 43.8% for sexed and 59.2% for conventional semen (p < 0.0001). Abortion (4.4% vs. 5.4%) and stillbirth (8.4% vs. 7.2%) rates were not significantly different between sexed and conventional semen (p = 0.09). Dystocia rates were 15.5% for sexed and 19.6% for conventional semen (p = 0.002). Sexed semen use showed negative EVs through all investigated scenarios. The EVs from the implementation of 1, 2 and 3 sexed semen breedings were estimated to be $-6.69, $-14.01 and $-19.08, respectively. Total insemination cost and increased cost of age at first calving were the most important components associated with negative EV for sexed semen. Sensitivity analysis showed that proportion of conception rates of sexed semen to conventional semen and female calf value were the most important biological and economic factors influencing on the EV of sexed semen, respectively. Breakeven would be obtained with 77.4%-79.3% conception rates or female calf value of $719.5-$754.7 through investigated breeding scenarios when all other factors remained the same.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Jabarzareh
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Sadeghi-Sefidmazgi
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - GholamReza Ghorbani
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Victor Cabrera
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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15
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Cottle DJ, Wallace M, Lonergan P, Fahey AG. Bioeconomics of sexed semen utilization in a high-producing Holstein-Friesian dairy herd. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:4498-4512. [PMID: 29454687 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-13172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A bioeconomic, stochastic spreadsheet model, that included calculation of the net present value of the additional value of all future descendants resulting from increased selection intensity, was developed to study the profitability of using sexed semen in a high input-high output dairy herd. Three management strategies were modeled: (1) only heifers inseminated with sex-sorted semen and cows inseminated with unsorted semen; (2) both heifers and cows inseminated with sex-sorted semen; and (3) a reference scenario, in which all breeding females were inseminated with unsorted semen. A Monte Carlo simulation (@risk software, Palisade Corp., Ithaca, NY) was run to study the sensitivity of net profit and sexed semen advantage to key input parameters. Most input parameters were given truncated normal distributions, whereas the maximum numbers of inseminations in heifers and cows were given discrete distribution functions. The calculated intensity of selection accounted for the different numbers of dairy females born for each of the 100,000 iterations. Using sexed semen (X-sorted, female) was shown to be profitable, with insemination of both heifers and cows being most profitable. The returns on assets were higher when only heifers were inseminated with sexed semen (8.54% ± 2.94; ±SD) or all females were inseminated with sexed semen (8.85% ± 2.93) than when all females were inseminated with unsexed semen (8.38% ± 2.95). The range in net profit was most sensitive to the assumed distributions of milk protein price (€/kg), milk fat price (€/kg), cow pregnancy rate, fertilizer price (€/t), and concentrate price (€/t) when unsorted semen was used. When only heifers or both heifers and cows were inseminated with sex-sorted semen, the range in net profit was most sensitive to the same distributions, with fertilizer price and cow pregnancy rate in reverse order of sensitivity. However, the range in sex-sorted semen advantage (in net profit) when only heifers were inseminated with sex-sorted semen was most sensitive to the assumed distributions of cow pregnancy rate, sex-sorted semen pregnancy rate as a percent of unsorted semen rates, standard deviation of index, additional cost of sex-sorted semen (€/dose), dairy bull calf price (€/head), and dairy heifer calf price (€/head). When both heifers and cows were inseminated, the order of importance of the last 2 inputs was reversed. This study highlights the relatively high effect of pregnancy rate and the genetic value of dairy bulls in determining the level of financial advantage from using sex-sorted semen in a dairy herd.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Cottle
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia; School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - M Wallace
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, United Kingdom.
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - A G Fahey
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, D04 V1W8, Ireland
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16
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Fodor I, Baumgartner W, Abonyi-Tóth Z, Lang Z, Ózsvári L. Associations between management practices and major reproductive parameters of Holstein-Friesian replacement heifers. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 188:114-122. [PMID: 29175177 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the reproductive management practices and the performance of replacement heifers on large commercial dairy farms. The individual data of 14,763 heifers, first inseminated in 2014, were analysed from 33 Holstein-Friesian dairy herds in Hungary. The relationships between management practices and major reproductive parameters (age at first service, AFS; age at first calving, AFC; conception risk to first insemination, CR1; and pregnancy status at 20 months of age) were examined by mixed-effects models, with the herd as the random effect. The results showed that farms using oestrus detection aids experienced reduced AFS (p<0.001) and AFC (p=0.001). Observation of oestrus for shorter periods instead of continuously showed a tendency towards lower AFC (p=0.057) and was associated with higher odds of pregnancy at 20 months of age (p=0.020). Heifers on farms using sexed semen had younger AFS, but poorer CR1, compared to those using conventional semen exclusively (p<0.05). In addition, the odds of heifers being pregnant by 20 months of age was higher on farms with more experience using sexed semen (p=0.020). Frequent pregnancy diagnosis (i.e. more than once per week) was associated with younger AFC (p=0.023). Our results suggest the use of certain advanced reproductive management practices for heifer reproductive management in large dairy herds (e.g. oestrus detection aids), which can improve reproductive efficiency considerably, but are currently used only to a limited extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Fodor
- Department of Veterinary Forensics, Law and Economics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István utca 2., H-1078 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - W Baumgartner
- Clinic for Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Zs Abonyi-Tóth
- Department of Biomathematics and Informatics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István utca 2., H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zs Lang
- Department of Biomathematics and Informatics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István utca 2., H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - L Ózsvári
- Department of Veterinary Forensics, Law and Economics, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István utca 2., H-1078 Budapest, Hungary
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17
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Joezy-Shekalgorabi S, Maghsoudi A, Mansourian MR. Reproductive performance of sexed versus conventional semen in Holstein heifers in various semiarid regions of Iran. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2017.1321473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Maghsoudi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, and Center of Agricultural Biotechnology, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
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18
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Bombardelli GD, Soares HF, Chebel RC. Time of insemination relative to reaching activity threshold is associated with pregnancy risk when using sex-sorted semen for lactating Jersey cows. Theriogenology 2016; 85:533-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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19
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Barkema HW, von Keyserlingk MAG, Kastelic JP, Lam TJGM, Luby C, Roy JP, LeBlanc SJ, Keefe GP, Kelton DF. Invited review: Changes in the dairy industry affecting dairy cattle health and welfare. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:7426-45. [PMID: 26342982 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The dairy industry in the developed world has undergone profound changes over recent decades. In this paper, we present an overview of some of the most important recent changes in the dairy industry that affect health and welfare of dairy cows, as well as the science associated with these changes. Additionally, knowledge gaps are identified where research is needed to guide the dairy industry through changes that are occurring now or that we expect will occur in the future. The number of farms has decreased considerably, whereas herd size has increased. As a result, an increasing number of dairy farms depend on hired (nonfamily) labor. Regular professional communication and establishment of farm-specific protocols are essential to minimize human errors and ensure consistency of practices. Average milk production per cow has increased, partly because of improvements in nutrition and management but also because of genetic selection for milk production. Adoption of new technologies (e.g., automated calf feeders, cow activity monitors, and automated milking systems) is accelerating. However, utilization of the data and action lists that these systems generate for health and welfare of livestock is still largely unrealized, and more training of dairy farmers, their employees, and their advisors is necessary. Concurrently, to remain competitive and to preserve their social license to operate, farmers are increasingly required to adopt increased standards for food safety and biosecurity, become less reliant on the use of antimicrobials and hormones, and provide assurances regarding animal welfare. Partly because of increasing herd size but also in response to animal welfare regulations in some countries, the proportion of dairy herds housed in tiestalls has decreased considerably. Although in some countries access to pasture is regulated, in countries that traditionally practiced seasonal grazing, fewer farmers let their dairy cows graze in the summer. The proportion of organic dairy farms has increased globally and, given the pressure to decrease the use of antimicrobials and hormones, conventional farms may be able to learn from well-managed organic farms. The possibilities of using milk for disease diagnostics and monitoring are considerable, and dairy herd improvement associations will continue to expand the number of tests offered to diagnose diseases and pregnancy. Genetic and genomic selection for increased resistance to disease offers substantial potential but requires collection of additional phenotypic data. There is every expectation that changes in the dairy industry will be further accentuated and additional novel technologies and different management practices will be adopted in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- H W Barkema
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - M A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - J P Kastelic
- Department of Production Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - T J G M Lam
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3508 TD, the Netherlands
| | - C Luby
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - J-P Roy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - S J LeBlanc
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - G P Keefe
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada
| | - D F Kelton
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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20
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Applications and cost benefits of sexed semen in pasture-based dairy production systems. Animal 2014; 8 Suppl 1:165-72. [PMID: 24679704 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114000664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexed semen technology is now commercially available in many countries around the world, and is primarily used in dairy cattle breeding. Sperm are sorted by flow cytometry on the basis of a 4% difference in DNA content between sperm containing X and Y chromosomes. Despite reliably producing a 90% gender bias, the fertility of the sexed semen product is compromised compared with conventional semen. The negative implications of the reduced fertility of sexed semen are amplified in seasonal systems of dairy production, as the importance of fertility is greater in these systems compared with year-round calving systems. A review of the literature indicates that conception rates (CR) to 1st service with frozen-thawed sexed semen are ~75% to 80% of those achieved with conventional frozen-thawed semen. Preliminary results from a large-scale field trial carried out in Ireland in 2013 suggest that significant improvements in the performance of sexed semen have been made, with CR of 87% of those achieved with conventional semen. The improved fertility of a sexed semen product that delivers a 90% gender bias has considerable implications for the future of breeding management in pasture-based dairy production systems. Sexed semen may facilitate faster, more profitable dairy herd expansion by increasing the number of dairy heifer replacements born. Biosecurity can be improved by maintaining a closed herd during the period of herd expansion. In a non-expansion scenario, sexed semen may be used to increase the value of beef output from the dairy herd. The replacement heifer requirements for a herd could be met by using sexed semen in the 1st 3 weeks of the breeding season, with the remaining animals bred to beef sires, increasing the sale value over that of a dairy bull calf. Alternatively, very short gestation sires could be used to shorten the calving interval. Market prices have a considerable effect on the economics of sexed semen use, and widespread use of sexed semen should be restricted to well managed herds that already achieve acceptable herd fertility performance.
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Lucena J, Kenyon A, Reynolds J, Moreno J, Lenz R, Carroll D, Lehenbauer T, Champagne J, Aly S. Comparison between low-dose, high-sort and high-dose, low-sort semen on conception and calf sex ratio in Jersey heifers and cows. J Dairy Sci 2014; 97:1782-9. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-7091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Sá Filho M, Mendanha M, Sala R, Carvalho F, Guimarães L, Baruselli P. Use of sex-sorted sperm in lactating dairy cows upon estrus detection or following timed artificial insemination. Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 143:19-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Revised: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hutchinson I, Shalloo L, Butler S. Expanding the dairy herd in pasture-based systems: The role of sexed semen use in virgin heifers and lactating cows. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:6742-52. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Lopes G, Johnson C, Mendonça L, Silva P, Moraes J, Ahmadzadeh A, Dalton J, Chebel R. Evaluation of reproductive and economic outcomes of dairy heifers inseminated at induced estrus or at fixed time after a 5-day or 7-day progesterone insert-based ovulation synchronization protocol. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:1612-22. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-5971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Hutchinson I, Shalloo L, Butler S. Expanding the dairy herd in pasture-based systems: The role for sexed semen use on virgin heifers. J Dairy Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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