This comprehensive, step-by-step laboratory training manual brings all the elements for a successful embryo transfer program together in a simple, organized, illustrated format. For the last several decades, artificial insemination has allowed genetic progress to be achieved relatively quickly through the widespread and efficient use of frozen semen. As a result of the advancement of embryo transfer (ET) techniques, cows can produce many offspring. A more rapid genetic gain is achieved which complements an artificial insemination program.

Bovine Reproduction is a comprehensive, current reference providing information on all aspects of reproduction in the bull and cow. Offering fundamental knowledge on evaluating and restoring fertility in the bovine patient, the book also places information in the context of herd health where appropriate for a truly global view of bovine theriogenology. Printed in full color throughout, the book includes 83 chapters and more than 550 images, making it the most exhaustive reference available on this topic. Each section covers anatomy and physiology, breeding management, and reproductive surgery, as well as obstetrics and pregnancy wastage in the cow. Bovine Reproduction is a welcome resource for bovine practitioners, theriogenologists, and animal scientists, as well as veterinary students and residents with an interest in the cow.

This book on protocols in semen biology is a compilation of 20 chapters written by 15 experts from 5 Indian Council of Agricultural Research institutions, focusing on the basics of various procedures in semen biology with applications in animal and other allied sciences The information is presented in simple language with illustrative figures and colour microphotographs, making it understandable for readers of every level. It highlights recent findings, the comparative analysis of assays, protocols, points to ponder, background information and major references, and also compares various assays for evaluating a seminal parameters. The book provides a comprehensive resource for beginners, as well as academics, investigators and scientists of animal semen biology and relevant fields. Further, it offers valuable teaching material.

Material is organized into 5 parts for easy and ready use, broadening the usefulness of the book, making it the most comprehensive, hands-on AI manual available. This manual prepares users for the "real world" by exposing them to the latest technology and techniques used in the reproduction and the practice of artificial insemination (AI) in livestock. Part One provides information on the advantages and considerations of artificial insemination, basic livestock genetics, the anatomy and reproductive processes of the cow and bull, and semen collection methods. It relates statistics on AI usage and general information about NAAB and CSS. Part Two deals with semen characteristics, including evaluation, processing, and extension; freezing and cryogenic storage; and care of the refrigerator unit. The various tests for semen quality are discussed in detail as is custom selection of semen. Part Three explains insemination techniques for dairy and beef cattle, inseminator training, pregnancy determination in cattle, conception rates, and breeding problems. The exercise on "Embryo Transfer and Related Practices" explains the advances and techniques involved in the field. Part Four includes an overview of sire selection, sire health, sire management, AI organization, and career opportunities. Part Five explains the use and techniques for artificial insemination in dairy goats and other farm animals. For herd operators and persons involved in genetic development—of particular use to people interested in livestock improvement. For those who are anticipating careers in some phase of the AI industry.

The use of human in vitro fertilization in the management of infertility is the outgrowth of years of laboratory observations on in vitro sperm-egg interaction. "The editors of this work have themselves contributed significantly to basic knowledge of the mammalian fertilization process. The observations of Don Wolf on sperm penetration, the block to polyspermy and, most recently, sperm hyperactivation in the monkey and human, Gregory Kopf's elucidation of the mechanisms of sperm activation during penetration and the reciprocal dialogue between sperm and egg, and Barry Bavister's definition of culture conditions and requirements necessary for in vitro oocyte maturation, fertilization and development in model mammalian systems including nonhuman primates have contributed greatly to our understanding of the mammalian fertilization process. Wolf, Kopf and Gerrity have enjoyed substantial interaction with clinicians in Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and have been directly involved with successful IVF programs. Both Wolf and Kopf have served as research scientists in the Division of Reproductive Biology at the University of Pennsylvania, which, for more than 22 years, has fostered co-mingling of clinically oriented and basic science faculty. It is through such interaction, which clearly exists at many institutions including the University of Wisconsin, that the process of technology transfer is best served. Without an exquisitely coordinated laboratory, there can be no consistent success in human in vitro fertilization. Quality control is pivotal, but close collaboration between the laboratory and the clinic is also essential as information is shared and correlated.

Reproductive physiology of sheep and goats; Factors involved in variation of reproductive characteristics; Artificial insemination of sheep and goats; Collection and preservation; Detection and control of oestrus and ovulation; Artificial insemination of ewes and does; Pregnancy tests, usefulness and accuracy.