North Central Regional Committee Meeting On …North Central Regional Committee Meeting On Reproductive Physiology (NCERA-57) 2 d:Mark/NRC 57 Historical Report 2006 NCERA-57 I. Current

North Central Regional Committee Meeting On Reproductive Physiology

(NCERA-57)

d:Mark/NRC 57 Historical Report 2006 2

NCERA-57

I. Current Representatives 3

II. Location of NCR-26, NCR-57 and NCERA-57 Meetings 5

III. Officers (1968-2007) 7

IV. Experiment Station Representatives 9

V. Economic Impact of NCR-57 (1976) 11

VI. Impact of NCR-57 (1987) 13

VII. Research Priorities in Animal Reproductive Research (1990) 15

VIII. Justification for Continuation of NCR-57 (2000-04) 20

IX. NCR-57 Workshops

a. Seasonal Infertility – 2002 28

b. Boar Stud Management & AI in Swine – 2004 29

c. Reproductive Inefficiency of Small Litters - 2006 30

X. Hodgepodge 31

3

Current Representatives NCERA-57, 2006

Administrative Advisor – Dr. John Baker G-100 Veterinary Medical Center College of Veterinary Medicine Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824-1314 Tel: 517-432-2388 Fax: 517-432-1037 Email: [email protected] Illinois – Dr. David Miller Department of Animal Sciences 132 Animal Science Lab 1207 West Gregory Drive University of Illinois Urbana, IL 61801 Tel: 217-333-3408 Fax: 217-333-8286 Email: [email protected] Indiana – Dr. Mark A. Diekman Department of Animal Sciences Lilly Hall of Life Sciences, Room 2-111 915 West State Street Purdue University West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054 Tel: 765-494-4829 Fax: 765-494-9346 Email: [email protected] Iowa – Dr. Lloyd L. Anderson Department of Animal Science 2356 Kildee Hall Iowa State University Ames, IA 50011-3150 Tel: 515-294-5540 Fax: 515-294-4471 Email: [email protected] Kansas – Dr. Duane L. Davis Department of Animal Sciences & Industry 253 Weber Hall Kansas State University Manhattan, KS 66506 Tel: 785-532-1224 Fax: 785-532-7059 Email: [email protected]

Michigan - Dr. Roy N. Kirkwood A202 Vet Medical Center Large Animal Clinical Sciences Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824 Tel: 517-432-5198 Email: [email protected] Missouri – Columbia – Dr. Timothy J.

Safranski Department of Animal Sciences S133 Animal Science Research Center University of Missouri Columbia, MO 65211 Tel: 573-884-7994 Fax: 573-884-4545 Email: [email protected] Nebraska – Dr. Brett R. White Department of Animal Science A224; Animal Science Building University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, NE 68583-0908 Tel: 402-472-6438 Fax: 402-472-6362 Email: [email protected] North Carolina – Dr. William Flowers 220-B Polk Hall Box 7621 North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC 27695 Tel: 919-515-4003 Fax: 919-515-4463 Email: [email protected] Ohio – Dr. Donald G. Levis Department of Animal Science 2029 Fyffe Road The Ohio State University Columbus, OH 43210 Tel: 614-292-1351 Cell: 614-404-7248 Fax: 614-292-3513 Email: [email protected]


Oklahoma – Dr. Rodney D. Geisert Animal Science Department 114E Animal Science Building Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK 74078 Tel: 405-744-6077 Fax: 405-744-7390 Email: [email protected] South Dakota – Dr. Jeffrey A. Clapper 108 Animal Science Complex South Dakota State University Brookings, SD 57007 Tel: 605-688-5417 Fax: 605-688-6170 Email: [email protected] Texas – Dr. Tom Spencer Department of Animal Science 442 Kleberg Center 2471 TAMU Texas A&M University College Station, TX 77843-2471 Tel: 979-845-4896 Fax: 979-862-2662 Email: [email protected] USDA/ARS/Beltsville - Dr. H. David

Guthrie Biotechnology and Germplasma Lab Building 200, Room 100-B, BARC-East Beltsville, MD 20705-2350 Tel: 301-504-9020 Fax: 301-504-5123 Email: [email protected]

USDA/ARS/USMARC – Dr. Joe Ford US Meat Animal Research Center P. O. Box 166 Clay Center, NE 68933 Tel: 402-762-4184 Fax: 402-762-4382 Email: [email protected] USDA – CSREES – Dr. Deb Hamernik 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W. Stop 2220 Washington, DC 20250-2220 Tel: 202-401-4202 Fax: 202-401-1602 Email: [email protected] Wisconsin – Dr. John J. Parrish Department of Animal Sciences 1675 Observatory Drive University of Wisconsin Madison, WI 53706 Tel: 608-263-4324 Fax: 608-262-5157 Email: [email protected] Wyoming – Dr. Steve Ford Department of Animal Science P. O. Box 3684 University of Wyoming Laramie, WY 82-71-3684 Tel: 307-766-2709 Fax: 307-766-2355 Email: [email protected]


Location of the NCR-26, NCR-57 and NCERA-57 Committee Meetings 1961 University of Illinois 1962 Iowa State University 1963 University of Missouri - Columbia 1964 University of Nebraska 1965 Purdue University 1966 University of Wisconsin 1967 University of Illinois 1968 USDA-ARS-Beltsville 1969 University of Minnesota 1970 Ohio State University 1971 Kansas State University 1972 Michigan State University 1973 Iowa State University 1974 University of Nebraska 1975 North Dakota State University 1976 University of Missouri - Columbia 1977 Purdue University 1978 University of Wisconsin 1979 Purdue University 1980 South Dakota State University 1981 Ohio Agricultural Research & Development Center 1982 R. L. Hruska USDA-ARS-Marc 1983 USDA-ARS-Beltsville 1984 University of Missouri - Lincoln 1985 University of Illinois 1986 University of Minnesota 1987 Pennsylvania State University 1988 Ohio State University 1989 University of Nebraska 1990 Kansas State University 1991 North Dakota State University 1992 Iowa State University 1993 University of Missouri - Columbia 1994 Oklahoma State University 1995 University of Wisconsin 1996 R. L. Hruska USDA-ARS-Marc 1997 USDA-ARS-Beltsville 1998 University of Missouri - Lincoln 1999 Purdue University 2000 University of Illinois


2001 University of Missouri – Columbia 2002 University of Nebraska 2003 Kansas State University 2004 Iowa State University 2005 University of Wisconsin 2006 North Carolina State University 2007 Michigan State University


NCERA-57 Officers 1968 Chair N. L. First 1979 Chair J. J. Ford Vice-Pres R. J. Gerrits Vice-Pres W. R. Dukelow Secretary E. F. Graham

Secretary D. L. Davis

1969 Chair R. J. Gerrits 1980 Chair W. R. Dukelow Vice-Pres E. F. Graham Vice-Pres D. L. Davis Secretary P. J. Dzuik

Secretary B. G. Crabo

1970 Chair E. F. Graham 1981 Chair D. L. Davis Vice-Pres P. J. Dzuik Vice-Pres B. G. Crabo Secretary L. L. Anderson

Secretary M. A. Diekman

1971 Chair P. J. Dzuik 1982 Chair B. G. Crabo Vice-Pres L. L. Anderson Vice-Pres M. A. Diekman Secretary G. H. Kiracofe

Secretary B. N. Day

1972 Chair L. L. Anderson 1983 Chair M. A. Diekman Vice-Pres G. H. Kiracofe Vice-Pres B. N. Day Secretary E. D. Clegg

Secretary D. B. Killian

1973 Chair G. H. Kiracofe 1984 Chair B. N. Day Vice-Pres E. D. Clegg Vice-Pres D. B. Killian Secretary V. G. Pursel

Secretary D. R. Hagen

1974 Chair E. D. Clegg 1985 Chair D. B. Killian Vice-Pres V. G. Pursel Vice-Pres D. R. Hagen Secretary J. H. Britt

Secretary P. J. Dzuik

1975 Chair V. G. Pursel 1986 Chair D. R. Hagen Vice-Pres J. H. Britt Vice-Pres P. J. Dzuik Secretary J. E. Tilton

Secretary W. F. Pope

1976 Chair J. H. Britt 1987 Chair P. J. Dzuik Vice-Pres J. E. Tilton Vice-Pres W. F. Pope Secretary F. A. Murray

Secretary D. R. Zimmerman

1977 Chair J. E. Tilton 1988 Chair W. F. Pope Vice-Pres F. A. Murray Vice-Pres D. R. Zimmerman Secretary J. J. Ford

Secretary L. L. Anderson

1978 Chair F. A. Murray 1989 Chair D. R. Zimmerman Vice-Pres J. J. Ford Vice-Pres L. L. Anderson Secretary W. R. Dukelow

Secretary V. G. Pursel


1990 Chair L. L. Anderson 2001 Chair S. Meredith Vice-Pres V. G. Pursel Vice-Pres L.L. Anderson Secretary J. J. Parrish

Secretary M. A. Diekman

1991 Chair V. G. Pursel 2002 Chair L. L. Anderson Vice-Pres J. J. Parrish Vice-Pres M. A. Diekman Secretary S. K. Webel

Secretary T. J. Safranski

1992 Chair J. J. Parrish 2003 Chair M. A. Diekman Vice-Pres S. K. Webel Vice-Pres T. J. Safranski Secretary R. D. Geisert

Secretary B. R. White

1993 Chair S. K. Webel 2004 Chair T. J. Safranski Vice-Pres R. D. Geisert Vice-Pres B. R. White Secretary J. E. Tilton

Secretary J. J. Ford

1994 Chair R. D. Geisert 2005 Chair B. R. White Vice-Pres A. J. Conley Vice-Pres J. J. Ford Secretary G. R. Foxcroft

Secretary R. Kirkwood

1995 Chair A. J. Conley 2006 Chair J. J. Ford Vice-Pres G. R. Foxcroft Vice-Pres R. Kirkwood Secretary D. J. Miller

Secretary J. J. Parrish

1996 Chair G. R. Foxcroft 2007 Chair R. Kirkwood Vice-Pres D. J. Miller Vice-Pres J. J. Parrish Secretary H. D. Guthrie

Secretary H. D. Guthrie

1997 Chair D. J. Miller Vice-Pres H. D. Guthrie Secretary R. Knox

1998 Chair H. D. Guthrie Vice-Pres R. V. Knox Secretary D. L. Davis

1999 Chair R. V. Knox Vice-Pres D. L. Davis Secretary S. Meredith

2000 Chair D. L. Davis Vice-Pres S. Meredith Secretary L. P. Reynolds


Experiment Station Representatives NCR-26 (Artifical Insemination of Swine, 1961-65)

NCR-57 (Reproductive Physiology, 1966-2005) NCERA-57 (Reproduction Physiology, 2006-present)

Adminstrative Advisor Bob Bray

Neal Jorgensen Bill Baumgardt Jeff Armstrong John Baker

1975-84 1985-93 1994-96 1997-2000 2001-Present

Illinois State University Steve Webel Robert Knox

1990-94 1995-99

Iowa State University Hassle Self Lloyd Anderson

1961 1962-Present

Kansas State University Guy Kiracote Duane Davis

1961-77 1978-Present

Lincoln University – Missouri Diane Killian Steve Meredith

1982-94 1995-2002

Michigan State University Jack Britt Ed Convey William Dukelow Roy Kirkwood

1975-76 1977 1978-90 2004-Present

North Carolina State University Bill Flowers 2002

North Dakota State University Jim Tilton Alan Conley Larry Reynolds

1975-93 1994-95 1996-99

Ohio State University E. F. Wilson Finnie Murray Bill Pope Don Levis

1975 1976-84 1985-03 2004

Oklahoma State University Rod Geisert 1992-2006

Penn State University Dan Hagen Alan Ealy

1983-2000 2001-02


Purdue University Eric Clegg Mark Diekman

1975-79 1980-Present

South Dakota State University Lowell Slyter Jeff Clapper

1975-96 1997-Present

University of Alberta, Canada George Foxcroft 1992-96

University of Illinois Phil Dzuik David Miller

1961-93 1994-Present

University of Minnesota E. F. Graham Bo Crabo

1961-71 1972-95

University of Missouri Billy Day Randy Prather Tim Safranski

1979-98 1999-2000 2001-Present

University of Nebraska Dwane Zimmerman Brett White

1975-99 2001-Present

University of Texas Fuller Bazer Tom Spencer

1994-99 2002-Present

University of Wisconsin Neal First John Parrish

1975-88 1989-Present

University of Wyoming Steve Ford 2002-Present

USDA-ARS-Beltsville Vern Pursel Dave Guthrie

1975-94 1995-Present

USDA-ARS-MARC Dan Laster Joe Ford

1972-75 1976-Present

USDA-ARS-SEA H. Teague 1979-88

USDA-CSREES C. F. Sierk J. F. Sykes E. I. Pilchard E. J. Splitter D. King L. R. Miller H. G. Gray M. Mirando D. Hamernik

1961-64 1965-71 1972-81 1982-87 1988 1989-91 1992-2000 2001 2002-Present


Economic Impact: Importance of Research to Increase Reproductive Efficiency in Livestock (Statement from NCR-57, pre-1987) To meet the ever-growing needs of the present and projected population for meat and meat products, a great increase will be required in the number of breeding livestock with present reproduction efficiency. Reproductive inefficiencies receive little publicity because they are not spectacular, do not pose an immediate threat to human health, and often have been viewed as innate and not subject to elimination. Losses due to reproductive inefficiency are insidious but very costly. Prolonged generation intervals due to delayed puberty, small numbers of offspring per conception, low conception rates, failure of many breeding animals to reproduce at all, embryonal deaths, and fetal deaths at parturition all contribute to reduced fertility. A disease that each year killed 25% of the nation’s cattle, sheep, or pigs would command immediate attention by the press, the consumer, the producer, and those responsible for allocating research funds. The losses from embryonal deaths in the three species mentioned are at least 25% from day of breeding to day 25 of gestation. Another 20% of young born die at birth or within a few hours from causes directly attributable to the birth process. Many females have no embryonal loss and have no loss of fetuses from parturition so these losses are not innate and part of the destiny of every animal, these losses are due to some reason. Before cures can be expected, causes and reasons must be established to form a base of knowledge. During the course of the annual meetings of the NCR-57 committee over the past several years, discussions by the researchers in reproductive physiology on which of the many facets of reproductive physiology deserves attention and would be most likely to yield significant results, have led to designating the following areas. Embryonal and Fetal Survival Embryonic mortality is a significant factor in all farm livestock. Embryonic loss reduces litter size by 30% in swine, occurs in over one-fifth of all fertilized eggs in the sheep and cow, and is a major contributor to the meager 60% hatching rate in the turkey. At the present time, there is no treatment, regimen of diet or management scheme that has consistently improved embryonal survival. Because this mortality constitutes such a great proportion of total losses, it merits much greater research emphasis. Even slight increases in embryonal survival would have a tremendous impact on the reproductive efficiency of the nation’s livestock. Control of Ovulation Methods of controlling ovulation have been developed but remain unavailable because of low conception in some species or regulatory agencies have not approved their general use in other species. Acceptable control of ovulation would embody the following characteristics: fertility at controlled ovulation would be as great as normal or greater; control would be precise so inseminations would be done by appointment; safe for both the animal and a potential human consumer of the animal; cost should not be prohibitive; administration should be convenient, consistent, and reliable. Control of ovulation is essential to widespread use of artificial insemination (AI) in domestic livestock. The cost, dedication, and skill necessary to check for


heat accurately and obtain high conception prohibits use of AI except in special circumstances. Insemination at a certain time relative to a controlled time of ovulation has been shown to give conception rates equal to or above usual levels. Parturition could be controlled and supervised when several members of a breeding herd are at the same stage of pregnancy. Parturition and Post-partum Recovery Death loss associated with birth and failure of the mother to mate soon after parturition account for a substantial reduction in reproductive efficiency. Of the 150,000,000 piglets born in the USA each year, 7% or 10,500,000 are stillborn. These are normal, fully formed fetuses that were alive at the beginning of the birth process but are presented dead. These 10,500,000 deaths and other birth-related deaths within the first 48 hours of birth are a complete waste of reproductive potential. The cow rarely conceives until 60 days after parturition, the sow must be weaned before mating, and then only after at least a 3 or 4 week lactation, the ewe often is not pregnant for 7 of the 12 months in a year. A mouse conceives within 24 hours of birth of the litter and is both pregnant and lactating most of her life. As daily feed and maintenance costs of breeding animals continues to increase so should the emphasis on reducing the number of days that animals in a breeding herd are not pregnant. Gamete and Zygote Storage and Handling Even though AI and embryo transfer have the potential for reducing the transmission of disease between herds, increases the number of offspring from a superior parent and facilitates transport of genes between farms, states, and continents, they are used relatively infrequently. The proportion of breeding females settled by AI is but a small fraction of the total even in cattle and is especially small in swine and sheep. Further development of the technology for semen preservation, insemination and for egg and embryo storage and transfer to overcome the present hindrances to their exploitation needs increased emphasis. At present in the USA about one lamb is produced per ewe per year, less than one calf is produced per cow per year, and about 12 piglets per sow are produced each year. Reproductive efficiency is quite low. Those areas discussed have tremendous unrealized potential for increased productivity. These areas need to be emphasized and supported financially. Students need to be trained in these areas in increasing numbers to take advantage of the potential increases possible. Reproductive physiology should not only be a subject of academic interest but should be in the forefront of those disciplines with goals of increased productivity.


The Impact of NCR-57 Committee on Reproductive Physiology, 1987

Since its inception in the early 1960’s, the first as the NCR-26 Committee on Swine Artificial Insemination, and then as NCR-57, the Committee has met at experiment stations on a rotating basis. The membership of the Committee has evolved gradually over the years, while retaining the initial format and emphasis. The annual meetings have served as a very useful forum for discussion of research just completed but not yet published, preliminary reports and, perhaps most importantly, an exchange of ideas on which to build existing knowledge. A perusal of early reports, and then followed by a similar examination of recent reports, vividly demonstrates the magnitude of progress made in understanding and technology that has taken place. Some of the speed and expediency by which this knowledge has been accumulated is due to the informal exchange of information and technology that occurs during the annual meetings. Thousands of dollars and research man hours have been saved by the simple process of discussion of research planned or in a yet unpublished stage by a relatively small group. Many observations and small but important techniques have been discussed that have saved many projects. Unnecessary redundancy has been avoided. The committee serves not only to save research money but to also provide a basis for more profitable and efficient production of animal products. Because one aspect of knowledge can be applied to so many units each bit has a tremendous impact on the whole. One more pig born per litter in the more than 10,000,000 farrowings in the U.S.A. would mean at least $250,000,000 more realized by the livestock producer or saved by the consumer. The stimulus derived from an open but unpublished forum carries on after the meeting, both to regular members and to graduate students and other visitors. This atmosphere is much more conducive to open discussion than the relatively fixed and formal one at national society meetings. The problems posed by the Committee and summarized in reports such as this one have served as a helpful basis in directing programs that lead to solutions of such problems. Some of the impetus for the competitive research grant program the language and the emphasis has come from discussions and reports of our annual meeting. The recognition of the importance of research in reproductive physiology and the significance of possible breakthroughs in reproduction in the form of increased financial support has been heartening. The science of reproductive physiology is relatively new and the potential is very great. Continued and increased support is readily justified and fully warranted. Because of the diversity of mechanisms of reproduction by the many useful species, the comparative approach is necessary. The integration of the many steps from gamete production to birth requires a broad view by the scientists. Because of the nature of the subject area, research findings in reproductive physiology can not only be translated into a gradual accretion of understanding, but often has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of the animal industry. Many of these findings have been first presented and discussed at the annual meeting of NCR-57. Our level of understanding and technology has changed dramatically in just a few years. One example of the extent of change that has taken place is the routine collection of embryos at very precise stages of development from many domestic species. Studies of embryos, transfers, transgenic insertions and nuclear insertions can now be done as a matter of course. Undergraduate students with little previous experience can be expected to succeed in recovery of embryos at very specific stages by reading the recent literature. This has been possible because of studies on the endocrinology, gamete physiology and embryology that have been discussed in NCR-57 meetings. The basic


endocrinology of the estrous cycle and pregnancy are far better understood than even a few years ago and are beginning to serve as a basis for application to management of animals. We now have a base of understanding that was beyond our comprehension 25 years ago. The potential for increasing this base is even greater than it was. Hopes and dreams of even the most imaginative and innovative researchers have become commonplace and routine. Continued support for programs in reproductive physiology and encouragement in the form of providing a setting conducive to open discussion such as NCR-57 will help make those hopes and dreams a reality. There is no certainty that research in any one specific area of reproductive physiology will always lead to a solution of a problem. Awareness of a problem and possible implications and associations make an experienced and observant researcher more likely to recognize a possible solution. There are many questions that still need more complete and satisfactory answers. A partial list follows: gamete production, harvesting a greater proportion of oocytes present; control of oocyte maturation; sperm harvesting; gamete and embryo storage and manipulation; cloning; transgenic production; prediction of potential fertility and fecundity and identification of potential fertility; pregnancy detection; control of litter size; appointment of ovulation, both time and numbers; appointment of time of births; understanding influence of various components of the environment on reproduction; selective sterilization of males and females, role of various hormones in pituitary and brain function as influenced by the environment, seasonality of breeding and birth. NCR-57 has served a very useful purpose in the past; it shows every promise of being even more useful in the future. It is not only a good investment in the future, it also provides for an economy of resources in the present. The Committee stands, as always, prepared to provide input on considered judgment of courses of action and programs for reproductive physiology.


Research Priorities in Animal Reproduction Research for the 1990’s Reproduction is the primary factor that limits efficient production of livestock. The goal of research in reproduction is to develop an understanding of these gene products that increase reproductive efficiency in farm animals. Towards this end, the following three areas of reproduction research need special priority in the 1990’s: 1. Neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive cycles and pregnancy

Efficient production of livestock involves an understanding of reproductive cycles and how to manipulate them to the producer’s benefit. There are several phases of reproductive cycles which need further understanding and development of techniques to control them, and to increase fertility and fecundity. Among these are the timing of puberty, ovulation control, control of parturition, and re-establishing fertility during the postpartum anestrous period. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of the neuroendocrine, environmental factors, behavioral aspects and genes that are involved in control of reproductive cycles, pregnancy and postpartum fertility.

2. Production, preservation and manipulation of gametes and embryos

Research in this area should continue to develop and implement the biotechnologies of gene transfer, in vitro production of embryos, cloning, sex determination of embryos, separation of X and Y sperm and preservation of gametes. To accomplish this, it will be essential to have a basic understanding of how to maximize harvest of gametes, maturation of sperm and eggs, fertilization, isolation of embryonic stem cells, embryo development and principles of cryopreservation. With the development of these biotechnologies will come the opportunity to develop new methods of predicting fertility, gene manipulation and identification of genes that control key events of reproduction.

3. Enhance prenatal and perinatal survival

Substantial losses and decreased reproductive performance result from decreased prenatal and perinatal survival. A key to enhancing survival is a detailed understanding of pre- and postnatal development that includes the role of uterine secretions, uterine capacity, immunological resistance, environmental factors and identification of regulatory genes and their products.

Greater understanding of the factors that control reproduction will lead to greater fecundity, less prenatal losses and greatly increase the number of offspring from superior genetic material. This knowledge is necessary to provide a safe and available food supply to consumers and to increase the international competitiveness of American agriculture. I. Justification for Continuation of the Committee

NCR-57 includes a diverse group of scientists who conduct research over a wide range of topics in reproductive physiology. These topics have been identified as research priorities in animal reproductive research for the 1990’s. The areas range from: A) neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive cycles and pregnancy, B) production, preservation and manipulation of gametes and embryos and C) enhancement of prenatal and perinatal survival. At the annual meeting, the group discusses and critiques research


projects in an informal setting. Valuable suggestions for improvement of the quality of the research and opportunities for collaboration between scientists at different stations have resulted. The wide range of topics discussed at the annual meeting are invaluable for researchers in different areas to keep abreast of the current developments in fields that they themselves are not investigating. NCR-57 spent considerable time in drafting a description of research priorities for the 1990’s (see attached) which was requested by CSRS for use in the competitive grants program and submitted to Dr. Gray on September 24, 1990. The accomplishments and activities of NCR-57 that include both formal and informal collaboration are exemplary as noted by the numerous publications from 1989-91. We request that NCR-57 be extended for another three year term starting October 1, 1992.

II. Committee Objectives

1. To develop an understanding of those gene products that increase reproductive efficiency in farm animals.

2. To apply the recent discoveries in understanding reproductive processes into development of new or improved technologies for the livestock industry.

3. To promote scientific exchange and critique at the annual meeting, improve the quality of research conducted, minimize duplication of research effort, and especially encourage cooperation and collaboration among scientists at different institutions.

4. To facilitate more rapid transfer of knowledge into teaching and extension programs through exchange of findings from diverse areas of reproductive physiology research.

5. To inform research administrators and others of research accomplished by members of NCR-57 by preparation and distribution of an annual proceedings.

III. States and Active Participants

See Appendix I.

IV. Highlights of Committee Activities and Accomplishments Since the Last Approval A. Formal areas of collaborative research efforts with joint publication of results.

1. Hypothalamic regulation of pituitary secretion and resulting corpora luteal function in pigs. (USDA-MARC, J. Klindt, J.J. Ford, USDA-BARC, D.J. Bolt; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson; Total publications: 5)

2. Superovulation with FSH and HMG in cattle (USDA-MARC, R.R. Maurer; Iowa State

University, L.L. Anderson; Total publications: 1)

3. Endocrine changes in compensatory testicular and epididymal growth (USDA-BARC; D.J. Bolt; University of Minnesota, B.G. Crabo; Total publications: 2)

4. Activation of porcine oocytes for nuclear transfer (University of Wisconsin, N.L. First;

Pennsylvania State University, D.R. Hagen; University of Missouri-Columbia, R.S. Prather; Total publications: 1)


5. Effect of relaxin on cervical dilation and fertility in the postpartum ewe (University of

Missouri-Columbia, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, S. Meredith; Total publications: 2)

6. Estrous synchronization of the postpartum ewe (University of Missouri-Columbia, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, S. Meredith; Total publications: 1)

7. Variation in ovulation time course and embryogenesis in swine (Ohio State University,

W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert; Total publications: 1)

8. Induction of estrus in prepuberal gilts (Illinois State University, S.K. Webel; University of Missouri-Columbia, B.N. Day; Total publications: 1)

B. Research with common areas of interest by two or more institutions, where

cooperation, although less formal, occurs. A summary of the projects and investigators is listed below. A complete list of the publications is presented in Appendix III.

1. Neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive cycles and pregnancy

a. Timing of puberty: Illinois State University, S.K. Webel; Purdue University, M.A. Diekman; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson; Kansas State University, D.L. Davis; Michigan State University, H.A. Tucker; University of Minnesota, B.G. Crabo; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, D.B. Killian, S. Meredith; University of Nebraska, D.W. Zimmerman; Pennsylvania State University, D.R. Hagen; South Dakota State University, R. Hanson; USDA-ARS-BARC, D.J. Bolt; USDA-ARS-MARC, D. D. Lunstra, J.J. Ford, R.K. Christenson;

b. Ovulation control, endocrine regulation of the estrous cycle: University of

Illinois, P.J. Dziuk; Purdue University, M.A. Diekman; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson, A.J. Conley, S.P. Ford, L.K. Christenson; Kansas State University, D.L. Davis; Michigan State University, H.A. Tucker, W.R. Dukelow; University of Minnesota, J.E. Wheaton; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, D.B. Killian, S. Meredith, A.N.V. Stewart; University of Nebraska, D.W. Zimmerman, J.E. Kinder; North Dakota State University, J.E. Tilton; Ohio State University, W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert; Pennsylvania State University, D.R. Hagen; South Dakota State University, A.L. Slyter; USDA-ARS-BARC, D.J. Bolt, C.E. Rexroad; USDA-ARS-MARC, J.J. Ford, R.R. Maurer;

c. Control of parturition and maternal behavior: University of Illinois, P.J. Dziuk;

Purdue University, M.A. Diekman; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson, A.J. Conley, S.P. Ford; University of Minnesota, M.E. El Halawani; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, S. Meredith;

d. Reestablishing fertility during the postpartum anestrous period: Iowa State

University, A.J. Conley, S.P. Ford; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, S. Meredith; University of Nebraska, J.E. Kinder; Ohio State University,


W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, L.J. Spicer; South Dakota State University, H.L. Miller;

2. Production, preservation and manipulation of gametes and embryos

a. Gene transfer and associated technologies: University of Minnesota, A.G. Hunter; USDA-ARS-BARC, D.J. Bolt, C.E. Rexroad, V.G. Pursel, R.J. Wall; University of Wisconsin, N.L. First;

b. Oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo development and production: Purdue

University, M.A. Diekman; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson, A.J. Conley, S.P. Ford, L.K. Christenson; Kansas State University, D.L. Davis; Michigan State University, W.R. Dukelow; University of Minnesota, A.G. Hunter, B.G. Crabo, E.F. Graham, J.C. Samper; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Lincoln University, D.B. Killian, S. Meredith, A.N.V. Stewart; Ohio State University, W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert; Pennsylvania State University, D.R. Hagen; USDA-ARS-BARC, L.A. Johnson, V.G. Pursel, C.E. Rexroad; USDA-ARS-MARC, R.R. Maurer; University of Wisconsin, J.J. Parrish, N.L. First;

c. Cloning: University of Missouri, B.N. Day, R.S. Prather; Pennsylvania State University,

D.R. Hagen; University of Wisconsin, N.L. First; d. Sex determination of embryos and sperm: University of Illinois, P.J. Dziuk; USDA-

ARS-BARC, L.A. Johnson; USDA-ARS-MARC, B.D. Schanbacher; e. Preservation of gametes: Iowa State University, C.R. Young; University of Minnesota,

E.F. Graham, B.G. Crabo; Ohio State University, W.F. Pope; USDA-ARS-BARC, L.A. Johnson, V.G. Pursel;

3. Enhancement of prenatal and perinatal survival

a. Uterine, oviduct and embryo secretions: University of Illinois, P.J. Dziuk; Purdue University, M.A. Diekman; Iowa State University, L.L. Anderson, S.P. Ford, L.K. Christenson; Kansas State University, D.L. Davis; University of Missouri, B.N. Day, R.M. Roberts; Ohio State University, W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert; USDA-ARS-MARC, T. Wise;

b. Uterine capacity: University of Illinois, P.J. Dziuk; Purdue University, M.A. Diekman;

Iowa State University, A.J. Conley, S.P. Ford, L.K. Christenson; Kansas State University, D.L. Davis; University of Missouri, B.N. Day; Ohio State University, W.F. Pope; Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert;

c. Immunological resistance: University of Minnesota, A.G. Hunter; USDA-ARS-

MARC, B.D. Schanbacher;


d. Environmental: Purdue University, M.A. Diekman; University of Missouri, B.N. Day;

Oklahoma State University, R.D. Geisert; USDA-ARS-MARC, H.G. Klemcke, R.K. Christenson, K.E. Gregory;


Justification for Continuation of the Committee (2000-04)

Reproductive success continues to represent a bottleneck in livestock production systems. Recent developments in efficient livestock production systems have included major improvements in the management of breeding herds. For example, pork producers reported average little sizes of 7 to 7.5 for many years but since 1980 average little size has climbed steadily to just over 8.6 in 1997 (USDA statistics cited in Pork Facts, National Pork Producers Council). Moreover, some production units are achieving well above this level. Another example of reproductive technology in pork production is the rapid expansion of artificial insemination. In 1980, use of AI for the production of market pigs was minute. Current estimates are that in excess of 50% of the pigs slaughtered in the U.S. are produced by AI. These improvements in pork production are unprecedented. Research by NCR-57 committee members has contributed technical information that is being used to achieve and bolster these production statistics. Reproduction is also central to the applications of technologies using gametes and embryos, including emerging biotechnologies. In particular, the ability to utilize information from genomics and other developing fields hinges, in large part, on advancing our ability to control and manipulate reproductive processes in farm animals. The continued research initiative for mapping the entire genome of the various domestic farm species is a monumental task. However, we can expect to eventually possess the sequence of most genes and the proteins they encode. With that knowledge in hand we will still need to understand protein function and develop useful technologies to benefit agriculture and consumers. Reproductive technologies, such as cloning and in vitro embryo production, will play major roles in providing the needed information and developing applications for production agriculture. The development of resources from the various genomics projects makes the NCR-57’s unique environment even more important. Mechanisms for developing collaborations, sharing of reagents and techniques, and a forum for open scientific discourse in an informal atmosphere are expected to be even more productive than in the past. Utilization of techniques in protein biology coupled with molecular biology will allow the committee members increased opportunities to share expertise to probe the physiology of the reproductive system and establish applications for the information obtained. NCR-57 provides a focal point for scientific exchange, fine tuning hypotheses and experiments, and establishing collaborations between stations. The NCR-57 Committee has had a major impact on understanding the regulation of reproductive cycles and on developing methods to control reproductive events (estrus, ovulation, and parturition). Recent accomplishments of NCR-57 are summarized in section VI of this request for an extension of the project. The technologies developed by this committee are being used in production agriculture and as necessary steps in the production of transgenic and cloned animals.


The NCR-57 committee comprises a diverse group of scientists who, in sum, have a very large amount of expertise in the various aspects of reproductive processes in food animals. They are tied together by the common goal of improving reproductive efficiency of agriculturally important species. The areas of reproductive biology studied by members of this committee continue to be those identified as research priorities for the 21st century. The focus of the committee is in three major areas: 1) neuroendocrine regulation of reproductive cycles and pregnancy, 2) improving methods of production, preservation, and manipulation of gametes and embryos, and 3) the development of ways to enhance prenatal and perinatal survival. At the annual meeting, each member of this committee presents their recent research in a format that promotes open discussion. Suggestions and critiques are made in an open and frank manner. This environment is more open than that afforded by national and international scientific meetings and often leads to more effective ways to design future experiments. The discussions have often revealed common areas of interest and have led to collaborations that more effectively utilize resources and scientific expertise. Present areas of collaboration between stations are identified later in this application. In addition, several members have served on Ph.D. examination committees for students from other members’ institutions. In the past, members have also collaborated on other projects including the organization of a Pig Reproduction Symposium. The fields of study identified in the objectives are evolving rapidly. Both the technology available and ideas driving the research are subjects of open discussions at the annual meeting. The techniques of molecular biology and ultrasound for visualization of reproductive structures are in routine use in the collective laboratories of the committee members along side longer established techniques to probe the physiology and to develop applications of the knowledge gained. In general, the breadth of the committee has helped to keep the members aware of the latest developments in fields that they may not study and to reveal opportunities to utilize the relevant ideas and technologies in their own research. The formal and informal collaborative efforts and the strength of the research of NCR-57 provide its members access to technologies and ideas that may be limiting at the individual stations. Young scientists have been added to replace retiring members. This has brought new perspectives to NCR-57 and provides young scientists with access to data and ideas that may not be readily accessible to new entrants to the field. Because of the opportunities that NCR-57 affords its members, and the increased efficiency of the cooperative research that it promotes, we request that NCR-57 be extended for four years. I. Committee Objectives: 1. Identify the mechanisms controlling pubertal development, the resumption of cycles after

parturition, folliculogenesis, gametogenesis, fertilization, pregnancy establishment, and survival of embryos and fetuses. Within these areas, it is desirable to 1) identify the genes and their products that regulate these processes, and 2) develop technologies for in vitro embryo production, enhanced embryo and fetal survival, and regulation of the estrous cycle. More specifically, the following priorities have been established:


a. Regulation of the estrous cycle, particularly the onset of estrous cycles

(puberty) and the resumption of cycles after parturition. A detailed understanding of the estrous cycle is vital in order for producers

to manipulate the cycle to increase efficiency and for biotechnologists to apply cloning and transgenic technology. An understanding of the normal cycle and more effective programs to regulate the cycle are necessary to increase fertility and fecundity. New methods for estrous detection and new methods for timing estrous cycles by exogenous hormones have been developed. A better understanding of follicle development during the cycle might allow researchers to develop schemes to identify and manipulate specific genes to improve ovulation rate.

b. Production, manipulation and preservation of gametes and embryos

A variety of techniques have been developed that have revolutionized the animal industry. Techniques such as artificial insemination, semen cryopreservation and embryo transfer were the subjects of pioneering research by members of the NCR-57 and key issues were the subject of productive debates and disagreements. A variety of new techniques are now being developed, such as separation of X- and Y-bearing sperm, in vitro fertilization and isolation of embryonic stem cells for addition or deletion of specific genes. These techniques have the potential for the same impact as some of the earlier reproductive technologies. Further development of these technologies and a better understanding of these processes will allow genetic progress to be accelerated. As key regulatory genes are identified, these technologies will allow efficient production of animals with the desirable genes.

c. Enhance prenatal and perinatal survival

Long recognized as important for livestock production, this area takes on added significance with revelations of problems with embryo survival and fetal defects in embryos produced by cloning or subjected to other in vitro manipulations. Early embryonic death significantly reduces reproductive efficiency. A more complete understanding of the embryonic and uterine genes involved in early development will allow the development of strategies to intervene and reduce death rates. Further, a basic understanding of developmental events will be essential to solving problems associated with poor survival and abnormalities in embryos resulting from in vitro fertilization, cloning, and other technologies. On the maternal side, a clear understanding of the oviduct and uterine products that are required for normal development, the genes involved in regulating uterine capacity, and the genes necessary for environmental and immunological tolerance is imperative. Finally, identification of limiting gene products involved in later development should enable producers to reduce perinatal death losses.


2. Promote scientific exchange and critique at the annual meeting, improve the quality of

research conducted, minimize duplication of research effort, and encourage cooperation and collaboration among scientists at different institutions.

3. Provide unique opportunities for information exchange and technology transfer using

conferences and other forums.

During the next four years, the NCR-57 will develop one or more conferences or other activities with industry groups and other research groups for the purposes technology transfer and information exchange. We will explore the possibilities for technology transfer with the National Pork Producers Council and other industry groups to determine their interests and needs for such activities. We will also initiate efforts to exchange instructional information electronically to enhance teaching and extension programs. In our implementation of this objective we will evaluate electronic as well as other methods of information transfer to achieve the objectives of reaching the target audiences and facilitating an open dialogue.

II. States and Active Participants

Administrative Support Admin. Advisor, Jeffrey D. Armstrong, Purdue CSRS Rep., H.G. Gray

State Member Area of Expertise Iowa Lloyd L. Anderson Neuroendocrinology Texas Fuller Bazer Pregnancy/Prenatal Survival North Dakota Lawrence P. Reynolds Pregnancy/Prenatal Survival Kansas D.L. Davis Pregnancy/Prenatal Survival Missouri B.N. Day Gametogenesis/Fertilization Indiana Mark Diekman Reproductive Endocrinology USDA/MARC J.J. Ford Folliculogenesis/Gametogenesis Alberta G.R. Foxcroft Folliculogenesis/Prenatal Survival Oklahoma Rodney D. Geisert Pregnancy/Prenatal Survival USDA/Beltsville H.D. Guthrie Folliculogenesis Pennsylvania D.R. Hagen Fertilization Missouri (Lincoln) Steve Meredith Folliculogenesis/Aging Illinois D.J. Miller Fertilization Wisconsin John J. Parrish Fertilization Ohio W.F. Pope Pregnancy/Prenatal Survival South Dakota Jeff Clapper Endocrinology

III. Highlights of Committee Activities and Accomplishments Since Last Approval

Research accomplishments since 1996 are in a variety of topics and detailed information is available in the annual reports of the committee. A summary of publications


is provided in Attachment I. In addition, the committee has expanded its efforts to communicate with the pork industry. We have invited an industry leader from the state hosting the annual meeting to participate in our meeting. In 1998, Mr. David Nikkodim, Missouri Pork Producers Association Research Program Director, attended the meeting held at Lincoln University and made a presentation concerning the needs of the U.S. Pork Industry. In 1999, Dr. Larry Rueff, a consulting swine veterinarian from Indiana, met with us at Purdue University and presented an overview of current research needs. He also provided an informative view of the pork industry that included his national and international experience. It is our plan to continue to invite industry leaders to participate in our meetings. We plan also to expand information exchange in the next four years as described in the objectives of this renewal request.

Summary: Several areas of collaborative investigation have been conducted within

NCR-57 since the last approval. These collaborative efforts include experiments designed to: 1) enhance prenatal and perinatal survival, 2) regulate ovulation in swine, 3) use IVM/IVF oocytes and gender sorted sperm to produce piglets of predetermined sex, 4) determine factors affecting survival of piglets in gilts with large numbers of embryos, 5) determine factors affecting embryonic survival in ewes, 6) evaluate development of uterine secretory responses in prepubertal gilts, 7) determine regional proliferation of granulosa cells within ovarian follicles, 8) investigate regulation of insulin-like growth factors in the anterior pituitary, 9) investigate activation of primordial follicles, and 10) compare two estrus and ovulation synchronization strategies in postpartum lactating dairy cows, 11) role of relaxin in controlling boar reproductive traits, and 12) investigation of the secretion of relaxin and progesterone by porcine corpora lutea in response to PGF2α. Specific collaborative research efforts are listed below and the resulting publications are listed in Appendix II. Specific research goals for the upcoming four years of the renewal application are listed in Appendix I. The NCR-57 provides an environment that invariably leads to many informal discussions about potential collaborations, grant proposal topics, and numerous interactions in terms of shared techniques, samples, reagents, etc. Some of these interactions become formalized and are documented in Appendix I. Many other interactions result only in improved experiments, interpretation of data, and sharing of ideas that improve the research programs of the members.


Collaborative Research Efforts of Experiment Stations 1. Enhanced prenatal and perinatal survival – Collaborators: Oklahoma, Iowa, Nebraska.

Number of research papers: 4 Early embryonic mortality has a major impact on reproductive efficiency in farm animals. Investigations to resolve oviductal and uterine products involved with conceptus development and survival are essential to development of reproductive strategies to improve reproductive performance. Discovery of genes involved with embryonic development and survival will provide a fundamental tool for early selection of females in a breeding herd.

2. Regulation of ovulation in swine – Collaborators: Oklahoma, Kansas. Number of research

papers: 2 The control of ovulation through inhibition of the LH surge in swine was investigated. A potent GnRH antagonist was utilized to block the release of LH during estrus of gilts. The importance of the length of the LH surge and ovulation was established.

3. Use of IVM/IVF oocytes and gender sorted sperm to produce piglets of predetermined

sex – Collaborators: Missouri-Columbia, USDA-Beltsville. Number of research papers: 2 This research is directed toward the objective of gaining the capabilities to produce all gilt litters in maternal lines of pigs and similar selection of litters in paternal lines.

4. Factors affecting survival of piglets in gilts with large numbers of embryos –

Collaborators: Missouri-Columbia, Iowa. Number of research papers: 0 Extended discussions have been carried on between the stations above in regard to factors controlling litter size.

5. Embryonic survival in ewes – Collaborators: Lincoln, Missouri-Columbia. Number of

research papers: 1 Several studies directed at this topic have been conducted between Lincoln University and the University of Missouri.

6. Development of uterine secretory responses in prepubertal gilts – Collaborators: Kansas,

USDA-MARC. Number of research papers: 2 To determine the ontogeny of uterine secretory proteins when prepubertal gilts are induced to ovulate at ages between 100 and 160 days. We anticipate the regulation of this development may prove important in postpubertal fertility. Further studies of these responses are already providing new insights into the importance of the secretory responses for the establishment of fertility.

7. Regional proliferation of granulosa cells within ovarian follicles – Collaborators: USDA-

MARC, North Dakota. Number or research papers: 3 The objective of this research was to determine if proliferation rate of granulosa cells was constant throughout the follicle or if proliferation was more prominent in one region of the follicle relative to other regions.


8. Regulation of insulin-like growth factors in the anterior pituitary – Collaborators: USDA-MARC, South Dakota. Number of research papers: 2 The goal of this research is to determine the impact of ovarian steroid hormones on concentrations of binding proteins for insulin-like growth factors in pituitary glands.

9. Activation of primordial follicles in rats – Collaborators: Missouri-Lincoln, North Dakota.

Number of research papers: 2 Research designed to better understand the role of fetal stage at meiotic arrest in determining the timing of activation of primordial follicles in mature animals. Personnel from Lincoln Univ. were trained at North Dakota State Univ. in use of a thymidine analog (BrdU) to evaluate cell proliferation in vivo using immunohistochemistry.

10. Comparison of two estrus and ovulation synchronization strategies in postpartum

lactating dairy cows – Collaborators: North Dakota, Wisconsin. Number of research papers: 0 The overall objective of this research is to study effective procedures for improving reproductive efficiency of postpartum dairy cows through synchronization of ovulation. Protocols used in these studies are designed to synchronize follicular development, luteal regression, and time of ovulation, thereby allowing for AI at a predetermined time. These studies are designed to determine the ovarian and endocrine consequences of the protocols in addition to determining fertility outcomes.

11. Role of relaxin in controlling boar reproductive traits – Collaborators: Iowa, USDA-

MARC. Number of research papers: 3 The objective is to determine the sites of action and role of endogenous relaxin production in the boar on reproductive traits.

12. Investigation of the secretion of relaxin and progesterone by porcine corpora lutea in

response to PGF2α - Collaborators: Iowa, USDA-MARC. Number of research papers: 2 The goal of this work is to understand the responses to corpora lutea of swine to PGF2α. Products containing PGF2α are used to control the time of parturition in pigs. The experimental approach is to determine whether aging corpora lutea in hysterectomized gilts mimic late pregnant gilts in their secretion of relaxin and progesterone when challenged with PGF2α treatment.


Research in Common Areas of Interest in which less formal but active collaboration has occurred. The number of papers published is in parentheses. 1. Neuroendocrine Regulation of Reproductive Cycles and Pregnancy

a. Timing of Puberty (7 papers) b. Ovulation Control, Endocrine Regulation of the Estrous Cycle (76 papers) c. Control of Parturition and Maternal Behavior (6 papers) d. Re-establishing Fertility During the Postpartum Anestrous Period (6 papers)

2. Production, Preservation and Manipulation of Gametes and Embryos

a. Gene Transfer and Associated Technologies (41 papers) b. Oocyte Maturation, Fertilization, Embryo Development and Production (65 papers) c. Cloning Embryos by Nuclear Transfer (11 papers) d. Sex Determination of Embryos and Sperm (9 papers) e. Semen Production (28 papers)

3. Enhancement of Prenatal and Perinatal Survival

a. Embryo Survival, Uterine, Oviduct and Embryo secretions (19 papers) b. Uterine capacity (42 papers) c. Immunological resistance (1 paper) d. Environmental (1 paper)


Seasonal Infertility, 2002 Workshop Dr. Steve Terlouw, Premium Standard Farms: Production Perspective of Seasonal Impact on

Reproduction Dr. William Flowers, North Carolina State University: Seasonal Effects on Boars:

Effectiveness of Current Management Strategies (presented by Joe Ford) Dr. Mark Diekman, Purdue University: Impact of Photoperiod on Swine Reproduction:

Inconsistencies in Published Literature Dr. Rod Geisert, Oklahoma State University: Impact of Elevated Temperature on Embryonic

Development: Old Concepts Revisited Dr. Ed Pajor, Purdue University: Animal Welfare: Sow Housing: Fast Food Restaurants


Boar Stud Management and A.I. in Swine, 2004 Workshop Thoughts from a boar stud manager, Steve Kerns, International Boar Semen Factors that lead to abnormalities in motility/morphology, Ron Christenson, USDA-ARS

MARC Effect of nutrition on sperm production, Don Levis, Ohio State University What can we learn from cutting edge bull research? John Parrish, University of Wisconsin What’s current and needed for freezing and sexing technology? Dave Guthrie, USDA-ARS

BARC


Reproductive Inefficiency of Small Litter Sizes, 2006 Workshop Introductions and Purpose of Workshop – W.L. Flowers, North Carolina State University Current Reproductive Trends on Swine Farms – John Page, AgriMetrics, Inc. Small Litter Size Phenomena on Farms in North Carolina – Dr. David Bishop, Sampson Community College and President of Reproductive Services Breeding Management and Small Litter Sizes (Fertilization through Day 30) – Dr. Roy Kirkwood, Michigan State University Early Gestation Management and Small Litter Sizes – Dr. Rod Geisert, Oklahoma State University Late Gestation Management and Small Litter Sizes (Post Day 40) – Dr. Steve Ford, University of Wyoming Panel Discussion


Hodgepodge 1998 During the reports, Dr. Day raised objection to ‘attempts’ to rename PMSG as eCG. Dr. Day contended this would be very upsetting to Dr. H. H. Cole. Others pointed out that the hormone was secreted by cells originating from the chorion but Dr. Day contended it was found in mare serum. The issue was not resolved but Dr. Day requested the discussion be recorded in the minutes. Dr. Philip Dziuk is retiring from the Department of Animal Science at the University of Illinois during this academic year. On Saturday, a breakfast meeting was held at the Holiday Inn, Inn on the Lane, to honor Dr. Dziuk for his insight in organizing the original predessor NCR-26 Committee on Swine Artificial Insemination, which was later designated as NCR-57 Committee on Reproductive Physiology. Dr. Dziuk has provided continuous support to the scientific purposes of the NCR-57. This Committee has served as a forum to exchange experimental findings and plans for future research by scientific colleagues from different stages. The impact of the NCR-57 Committee on Reproductive Physiology has been important in the formulation of research priorities at both the state experiment stations and federal cooperative research programs. Dr. Dziuk was presented a plaque by Dr. Zimmerman in appreciation and thanks for his outstanding contributions to the NCR-57 Committee on Reproductive Physiology. 2001 Before the close of the business meeting, President Emeritus Duane Davis apologized for not bringing the official NCR-57 gavel, which was quickly followed by a sincere apology from last year’s host, Dave Miller, for not bringing the official NCR-57 pointer. Acceptance of apologies was not unanimous.

Documents

North Central Regional Committee Meeting On …North Central Regional Committee Meeting On Reproductive Physiology (NCERA-57) 2 d:Mark/NRC 57 Historical Report 2006 NCERA-57 I. Current