EEG and fNIRS datasets based on Stroop task during two weeks of high-altitude exposure in new immigrants

Maintaining sufficient cerebral oxygen metabolism is crucial for human survival, especially in challenging conditions such as high-altitudes. Human cognitive neural activity is sensitive to fluctuations in oxygen levels. However, there is a lack of publicly available datasets on human behavioural responses and cerebral dynamics assessments during the execution of conflicting tasks in natural hypoxic environments. We recruited 80 healthy new immigrant volunteers (males, aged 20 ± 2 years) and employed the Stroop cognitive conflict paradigm. After a two-week exposure to both high and low-altitudes, the behavioural performance, prefrontal oxygen levels, and electroencephalography (EEG) signals were recorded. Comparative analyses were conducted on the behavioural reaction times and accuracy during Stroop tasks, and statistical analyses of participants' prefrontal oxygen levels and EEG signals were performed. We anticipate that our open-access dataset will contribute to the development of monitoring devices and algorithms, designed specifically for measuring cerebral oxygen and EEG dynamics in populations exposed to extreme environments, particularly among individuals suffering from oxygen deficiency.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes carrying hsa-miRNA-128-3p suppress pancreatic ductal cell carcinoma by inhibiting Galectin-3

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most fatal malignant tumors of the digestive system. Many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and lose eligibility for surgery. Moreover, there are few effective methods for treating pancreatic ductal cell carcinoma. Increasing attention has been given to microRNAs (miRNAs) and their regulatory roles in tumor progression. In this study, we investigated the effects of exosomes extracted from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUCMSCs) carrying hsa-miRNA-128-3p on pancreatic cancer cells.

METHODS

Based on existing experimental and database information, we selected Galectin-3, which is associated with pancreatic cancer, and the corresponding upstream hsa-miRNA-128-3p. We extracted HUCMSCs from a fresh umbilical cord, hsa-miRNA-128-3p was transfected into HUCMSCs, and exosomes containing hsa-miRNA-128-3p were extracted and collected. The effect of exosomes rich in hsa-miRNA-128-3p on pancreatic cancer cells was analyzed.

RESULTS

The expression of Galectin-3 in normal pancreatic duct epithelial cells was significantly lower than that in PDAC cell lines. We successfully extracted HUCMSCs from the umbilical cord and transfected hsa-miRNA-128-3p into HUCMSCs. Then we demonstrated that HUCMSC-derived exosomes with hsa-miRNA-128-3p could suppress the proliferation, invasion, and migration of PANC-1 cells in vitro by targeting Galectin-3.

CONCLUSION

Hsa-miRNA-128-3p could be considered as a potential therapy for pancreatic cancer. We provided a new idea for targeted therapy of PDAC.

[Correlation of serum ADAMTS13 and TSP1 levels with myocardial injury and prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate serum levels of von Willebrand factor lytic protease (ADAMTS13) and thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) in patients with different types of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and their correlation with the patients' clinical prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

According to their disease history, results of angiography and clinical biochemical tests, a total of 405 patients undergoing coronary angiography, were divided into unstable angina (UAP) group (n=215), acute myocardial infarction (AMI) group (n=96), and angiographically normal group (n=94). Serum ADAMTS13 and TSP1 levels were detected in all the patients, who were followed up for 15 months to evaluate the occurrence of long-term major cardiac adverse events (MACE).

OBJECTIVE

Serum ADAMTS13 level was significantly lower and TSP1 level was significantly higher in AMI group and UAP group than in the normal group (P < 0.001). Serum ADAMTS13 and TSP1 levels were negative correlated in ACS patients (R=-0.577, P < 0.001). The patients experiencing MACE had significantly different serum TSP1 level from those without MACE (P < 0.05). Cox proportion regression model analysis showed that TSP1 was a risk factor affecting the occurrence of MACE in ACS patients; Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the patients with high levels of TSP1 had a higher incidence of longterm MACE than those with low TSP1 levels.

OBJECTIVE

A lowered serum ADAMTS13 level and an elevated TSP1 level can support the diagnosis of ACS. An elevated TSP1 level may serve as an indicator for predicting the risk of MACE in patients with ACS.

Compressed sensing of large-scale local field potentials using adaptive sparsity analysis and Non-convex Optimization

OBJECTIVE

Energy consumption is a critical issue in resource-constrained wireless neural recording applications with limited data bandwidth. Compressed sensing (CS) has emerged as a powerful framework in addressing this issue owing to its highly efficient data compression procedure. In this paper, a CS-based approach termed Simultaneous Analysis Non-Convex Optimization (SANCO) is proposed for large-scale, multi-channel local field potentials (LFPs) recording.

APPROACH

The SANCO method consists of three parts: (1) the analysis model is adopted to reinforce sparsity of the multi-channel LFPs, therefore overcoming the drawbacks of conventional synthesis models. (2) An optimal continuous order difference matrix is constructed as the analysis operator, enhancing the recovery performance while saving both computational resources and data storage space. (3) A non-convex optimizer that can by efficiently solved with alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) is developed for multi-channel LFPs reconstruction.

MAIN RESULTS

Experimental results on real datasets reveal that the proposed approach outperforms state-of-the-art CS methods in terms of both recovery quality and computational efficiency.

SIGNIFICANCE

Energy efficiency of the SANCO make it an ideal candidate for resource-constrained, large scale wireless neural recording. Particularly, the proposed method ensures that the key features of LFPs had little degradation even when data are compressed by 16x, making it very suitable for long term wireless neural recording applications.

Long noncoding RNA TPTE2P1 promotes the migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor that poses a serious threat to human health and life. Metastasis is one of the reasons for high rate of relapse. Due to the lack of effective treatment, the prognosis of HCC patients is far from satisfactory. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-TPTE2P1 in HCC development. Moreover, we aimed to search for new biomarkers which could predict the metastasis and provide novel therapeutic strategies for HCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate the expression level of lncRNA-TPTE2P1 in both HCC tissues and cell lines. Wound-healing assay and transwell assay were applied to determine the ability of cell migration. Meanwhile, transwell matrigel assay was applied to detect the invasion of HCC cells. The protein expressions of E-cadherin, Vimentin and N-cadherin in chosen cell lines were detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Results found that lncRNA-TPTE2P1 was overexpressed in both HCC tissues and cell lines. Further analysis revealed that overexpression of lncRNA-TPTE2P1 was correlated with tumor size, distant metastasis, differentiation degree, as well as tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage of HCC patients. Subsequent wound-healing assay, transwell assay and Matrigel assay confirmed that down-regulated lncRNA-TPTE2P1 could significantly suppress the invasion and migration of cells. However, up-regulation of lncRNA-TPTE2P1 showed the opposite results. Moreover, lowly expressed lncRNA-TPTE2P1 significantly decreased the protein levels of E-cadherin, Vimentin and N-cadherin. These results indicated that lncRNA-TPTE2P1 might stimulate the migration and invasion of HCC cells by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, our results suggested that lncRNA-TPTE2P1 functioned as an oncogene in HCC. Meanwhile, lncRNA-TPTE2P1 stimulated HCC cell migration and invasion by promoting EMT. LncRNA-TPTE2P1 might play a vital role in the development and progression of HCC. Our findings demonstrated that lncRNA-TPTE2P1 could serve as an early biomarker of metastasis and therapeutic target for HCC.

Biocompatibility assessment of type-II collagen and its polypeptide for tissue engineering: effect of collagen's molecular weight and glycoprotein content on tumor necrosis factor (Fas/Apo-1) receptor activation in human acute T-lymphocyte leukemia cell line

Fas cell surface death receptor activation by low molecular weight (57, 40 and 25 kDa) collagens was investigated based on MW and glycoprotein content.

Expression of microRNAs: potential molecular link between obesity, diabetes and cancer

Clinicians are routinely challenged in their management of cancer patients because of the complexities of obesity and diabetes that are often found as comorbid conditions. Although attention has been given to optimizing treatment planning for these patients, less attention has been given to manage their obesity and diabetes. This suggests that newer, comprehensive approaches must be developed for the treatment of cancer patients as a 'whole' rather than as a single disease. While the specific pathologies of each are unique, years of research have indicated intimate molecular links between these chronic diseases. The contribution of sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits is recognized; however, the precise molecular links are still not well-explored. In addition, emerging evidence suggests the important role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development and progression of several diseases, yet their roles in linking obesity, diabetes and cancer are only now beginning to be recognized. It is hoped that miRNAs will serve as novel biomarkers and molecular targets for cancer therapy in patients with comorbid conditions. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the pathobiology of obesity, diabetes and cancer, and document molecular roles of miRNAs linking cancer with obesity and diabetes.

Evaluation of C-2-substituted 19-nor-1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 analogs as therapeutic agents for prostate cancer

1alpha,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)) is known to inhibit the proliferation and invasiveness of prostate cancer cells. However, 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) can cause hypercalcemia and is not suitable as a therapeutic agent. 19-Nor-vitamin D derivatives are known to be less calcemic when administered systemically. In order to develop more potent anti-cancer agents with less calcemic side effect, we therefore utilized (3)H-thymidine incorporation as an index for cell proliferation and examined the antiproliferative activities of nine C-2-substituted 19-nor-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) analogs in the immortalized PZ-HPV-7 normal prostate cell line. Among the nine analogs we observed that the substitution with 2alpha- or 2beta-hydroxypropyl group produced two analogs having antiproliferative potency that is approximately 500- to 1000-fold higher than 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). The (3)H-thymidine incorporation data were supported by the cell counting data after cells were treated with 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3), 19-nor-2alpha-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) or 19-nor-2beta-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) for 7 days. 19-Nor-2alpha-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 19-nor-2beta-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) were also shown to be about 10-fold more active than 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in cell invasion studies using prostate cancer cells. In conclusion, a substitution at the C-2 position of 19-nor-1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) molecule with a hydroxypropyl group greatly increased the antiproliferative and anti-invasion potencies. Thus, these two analogs could be developed to be effective therapeutic agents for treating early and late stages of prostate cancer.

Zinc activates NF-kappaB in HUT-78 cells

Zinc is essential for human health, and its deficiency in human beings results in growth failure, immune disorders affecting Th1 functions, decreased interleukin-2 (IL-2) production, and cognitive impairment. Nearly 2000 transcription factors require zinc for their structural integrity; however, it is not known whether cellular zinc deficiency results in any change in activation of any of the transcription factors. Inasmuch as NF-kappaB binds to the promoter enhancer area of IL-2 and IL-2Ralpha genes, we investigated the effect of zinc deficiency on activation of NF-kappaB and its binding to DNA in HUT-78, a Th0 malignant human lymphoblastoid cell line. We show here for the first time that in zinc-deficient HUT-78 cells, phosphorylated IkappaB, and IKK, ubiquitinated IkappaB and binding of NF-kappaB to DNA were all significantly decreased. Zinc increased the translocation of NF-kappaB from cytosol to nucleus. We also demonstrate that the binding of recombinant NF-kappaB (p50)(2) to DNA in HUT-78 cells was zinc specific. We conclude that zinc plays an important role in the activation of NF-kappaB in HUT-78 cells.

Expression of the bovine oestrogen receptor-beta (bERbeta) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) during the first ovarian follicular wave and lack of change in the expression of bERbeta mRNA of second wave follicles after LH infusion into cows

In a previous study, the ERbeta cDNA protein-coding region was utilised to clone bovine ERbeta. The objectives in this study were to examine (1) ERbeta mRNA expression in ovarian follicles throughout the bovine first follicular wave, and (2) effect of LH infusion into cows on bERbeta mRNA expression during the second follicular wave. In experiment 1, heifers (4-5 per time point) were ovariectomized at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 144, or 216 h after emergence of the first follicular wave after oestrus. In experiment 2, saline or LH was pulsed hourly (computer-controlled syringe pump) into cows (n = 31; 5-6 per treatment) at wave emergence for 2 or 4 days: wave 1-saline (W1S), wave 2-saline (W2S), or wave 2-LH (25 microg/h; W2LH). Ovaries were removed on day 2 or day 4 after wave emergence. Follicles, 2-19mm in size, were dissected, frozen, and stored at -80 degrees C for in situ hybridisation with two bERbeta cRNA probes. Expression of bERbeta mRNA was localised in granulosa cells of healthy follicles. In experiment 1, bERbeta mRNA expression did not change with time points of the wave showing no association of bERbeta mRNA expression with follicular selection and dominance. However, bERbeta mRNA expression decreased with increase in size of all follicles. Expression of bERbeta mRNA was greater in very small follicles (2-4 mm) than in large (> or = 9 mm) follicles. In experiment 2, expression of bERbeta mRNA in follicles did not differ either between W1S and W2S or between W2S and W2LH. In summary, bERbeta mRNA expression decreased with increasing follicular size. However, neither stage of the wave (selection or dominance), nor pulsatile infusion of LH influenced bERbeta mRNA expression.

[Protective effect of total flavonoids of fructus choerospondiatis on adriamycin-induced rat cardiac peroxidation]

OBJECTIVE

To study the protection effect of total flavnoids of Fructus Choerospondiatis (TFFC) on rat cardiac muscle peroxidation in vitro and vivo.

METHODS

Adriamycin-induced peroxidation model on rat was adopted. Activities of LDH, AST and CK in rat's serum, activities of SOD, GSH-Px and content of MDA in rat cardiac muscle were determinated. Activity of LDH and content of MDA in cultured suckling rat cardiac cell were also determinated.

RESULTS

Compared with normal group, activities of LDH, AST, CK in serum and content of MDA in cardiac muscle on adriamycin group increased (P < 0.05, P < 0.001), activities of SOD, GSH-Px decreased in cardiac muscle (P < 0.001). Activity of LDH and content of MDA in cultured fluid of suckling rat cardiac cell were higher than that of normal group (P < 0.001). To various dosages TFFC groups, activity of LDH, AST, CK in serum and content of MDA in cardiac muscle decreased; activities of SOD and GSH-Px in cardiac muscle increased; activites of LDH and content of MDA in cultured fluid decreased (P < 0.01, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

TFFC can maintain the integrity of cytomembrane by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation, namely, TFFC has an effect of protecting cardiac muscle.

Estrogen receptor-beta expression in relation to the expression of luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome P450 enzymes in rat ovarian follicles

Changes in mRNA expression for estrogen receptor (ER beta) in relation to mRNAs for LH receptor (LHr) and cytochrome P450 enzymes were examined in granulosa and theca cells from proestrous rat ovarian follicles. Of the 30 ovaries harvested from 15 adult rats, 24 were processed for in situ hybridization, and the remaining were used for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Messenger RNAs for ER beta, LHr, cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450(scc)), 17 alpha-hydroxylase (P450(c17)), aromatase (P450(arom)), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) were localized in cross sections of ovaries by in situ hybridization and quantified in granulosa and theca cell layers by a computer-image analyzing system. Ovarian follicles were classified as healthy or atretic. Healthy follicles were divided into four size groups: very small (40-100 microm), small (101-275 microm), medium (276-450 microm), and large (451-850 microm). Atretic follicles were divided into medium (276-450 microm) or large follicles (451-850 microm). A low level of ER beta mRNA expression was first detected in granulosa cells of very small healthy follicles, and the expression increased progressively up to medium-sized follicles. The expression of ER beta mRNA was highest (P < 0.01) in medium-sized follicles that was followed by a decrease (P < 0.01) in large follicles. Messenger RNAs for LHr, P450(scc), and P450(arom) were first detected in granulosa cells of medium-sized healthy follicles, while mRNAs for LHr, P450(scc), P450(c17), and StAR were first detected in theca cells associated with very small follicles. The highest expression of LHr, P450(scc), P450(c17), P450(arom), and StAR was seen in granulosa and/or theca cells of large healthy follicles. In atretic follicles, level of gene expression was relatively low in both granulosa and theca cells. In conclusion, stage-specific expression of ER beta mRNA was observed in granulosa cells during follicular development. The increased expression of ER beta and a concomitant initiation of LHr, P450(scc), and P450(arom) expression in granulosa cells of medium follicles may signify a role for estrogen in follicular development. Also, a strong correlation between ER beta mRNA expression in granulosa cells, and the expression of mRNAs for LHr, P450(scc), P450(c17), and StAR in theca cells associated with growing follicles suggests a possible role for estrogen in steroidogenesis.

Duration of symptoms and plasma cytokine levels in patients with the common cold treated with zinc acetate. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Adults and children in the United States get two to six colds per year. Evidence that zinc is effective therapy for colds is inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

To test the efficacy of zinc acetate lozenges in reducing the duration of symptoms of the common cold.

DESIGN

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

SETTING

Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, Michigan.

PATIENTS

50 ambulatory volunteers recruited within 24 hours of developing symptoms of the common cold.

INTERVENTION

Participants took one lozenge containing 12.8 mg of zinc acetate or placebo every 2 to 3 hours while awake as long as they had cold symptoms.

MEASUREMENTS

Subjective symptom scores for sore throat, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, cough, scratchy throat, hoarseness, muscle ache, fever, and headache were recorded daily for 12 days. Plasma zinc and proinflammatory cytokine levels were measured on day 1 and after participants were well.

RESULTS

Forty-eight participants completed the study (25 in the zinc group and 23 in the placebo group). Compared with the placebo group, the zinc group had shorter mean overall duration of cold symptoms (4.5 vs. 8.1 days), cough (3.1 [95% CI, 2.1 to 4.1] vs. 6.3 [CI, 4.9 to 7.7] days), and nasal discharge (4.1 [CI, 3.3 to 4.9] vs. 5.8 [CI, 4.3 to 7.3] days) and decreased total severity scores for all symptoms (P < 0.002, test for treatment x time interaction). Mean changes in soluble interleukin-1 receptor antagonist level differed nonsignificantly between the zinc group and the placebo group (difference between changes, -89.4 pg/mL [CI, -243.6 to -64.8 pg/mL]).

CONCLUSION

Administration of zinc lozenges was associated with reduced duration and severity of cold symptoms, especially cough. Improvement in clinical symptoms with zinc treatment may be related to a decrease in proinflammatory cytokine levels; however, in this study, the observed differences between changes in cytokine levels in zinc and placebo recipients were not significant.

Pregnancy-associated bovine and ovine glycoproteins exhibit spatially and temporally distinct expression patterns during pregnancy

The pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG) constitute a large family of recently duplicated genes. They show structural resemblance to pepsin and related aspartic proteinases. A total of 21 bovine (bo) PAG and 9 ovine (ov) PAG cDNA have been identified. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the PAG are divided into two main groupings that accurately reflect their tissue expression, as determined by in situ hybridization. In the first pattern, represented by ovPAG-2 and boPAG-2, -8, -10, and -11 (where the numbering is arbitrary and reflects order of discovery within species), expression occurred throughout the outer epithelial layer of the placenta (trophectoderm). The second pattern was predominant localization to binucleate cells. Ribonuclease protection assays, which allow discrimination between closely related transcripts, have shown that the expression of PAG varies in a temporal manner over pregnancy. Of those bovine PAG expressed predominantly in binucleate cells, boPAG-1, -6, and -7 are expressed weakly, if at all, by Day 25 placenta, but are present at the middle and end of pregnancy. Others, such as boPAG-4, -5, and -9, are expressed at Day 25 and at earlier stages. Although not among the earliest PAG produced by the trophoblast, boPAG-1 has been used for pregnancy diagnosis, particularly in dairy cows, where there is a major need for a sensitive method capable of detecting pregnancy within 1 mo of conception. It seems likely that some of the newly discovered PAG will be better candidates than PAG-1 for pregnancy diagnosis.

Administration of progesterone to cows with ovarian follicular cysts results in a reduction in mean LH and LH pulse frequency and initiates ovulatory follicular growth

Cows with ovarian follicular cysts were treated with progesterone to determine whether a reduction in LH concentrations and initiation of ovulatory follicular waves would occur. Cysts were diagnosed using transrectal ultrasonography when single follicular structures > 20 mm or multiple structures > 15 mm in diameter were present for 7 d in the presence of low progesterone concentrations. Three groups were studied: 1) cows with normal estrous cycles (CYC, n = 8); 2) cows with untreated cysts (CYST, n = 7); and 3) cows with cysts treated with two progesterone-releasing intravaginal devices (PRID, n = 8) for 9 d. Ovaries were examined with transrectal ultrasonography, and blood samples were collected daily for analysis of progesterone and FSH. Serial blood samples for determination of mean LH and LH pulse frequency were collected on d 0 (CYST and PRID cows only), 1, 5, 9, and 10. Progesterone concentrations were higher in PRID cows than in CYST cows throughout the PRID treatment period (P < .002). On d 0, LH pulse frequency was similar (P = .10) in PRID (6.6+/-.6 pulses/8 h) and CYST cows (5.1+/-.6 pulses/8 h), but mean LH tended to be higher (P = .054) on d 0 in PRID cows (2.5+/-.2 ng/mL) than in CYST cows (1.9+/-.2 ng/mL). Mean LH and LH pulse frequency decreased (P < .002) by d 1 in PRID cows (1.1+/-.2 ng/mL, 1.8+/-.6 pulses/8 h) compared with CYST cows (2.1+/-.2 ng/mL, 5.6+/-.6 pulses/8 h) and remained lower throughout most of the experimental period. The FSH concentrations were higher (P < .01) in PRID cows than in CYC and CYST cows on d 3 and 4. The increase in FSH concentrations preceded emergence of the PRID-induced follicular wave. All PRID cows and four of seven CYST cows initiated new follicular waves during the period of PRID treatment. Follicular waves were initiated later (P < .05) in CYST cows (d 5.2+/-1.7) and PRID cows (d 5.5+/-.6) than in CYC cows (d 1.8+/-.3). Cysts were smaller (P < .01) at the end of the treatment period in PRID cows compared with CYST cows. No CYST cows ovulated, but all PRID cows ovulated newly developed follicles 3 or 4 d after PRID removal. Treatment with exogenous progesterone reduced LH in cows with cysts, and this was followed by development of normal ovulatory follicles.

Effects of the presence of a dominant follicle and exogenous oestradiol on the duration of the luteal phase of the bovine oestrous cycle

The presence of a developing dominant follicle may be a factor in the control of the luteolytic cascade mechanism and the number of follicular waves during the bovine oestrous cycle. In this study, ovaries of all animals were examined once a day by transrectal ultrasonography. It was expected that heifers (n = 18) would have two follicular waves if the second wave occurred later than day 10 after oestrus (Expt 1) and that cows (n = 14) would have three waves if the second wave occurred on or before day 10 (Expt 2). The objective of Expt 1 was to determine if absence of a large follicle late in the luteal phase delays luteal regression in heifers that are expected to have two follicular waves. Nine heifers were injected i.v. with 10 ml charcoal-treated bovine follicular fluid three times a day for 4 days, starting on the day after initiation of the second follicular wave, to delay growth of the second wave dominant follicle. Nine heifers were injected with 0.9% NaCl as controls. The duration of the luteal phase (calculated as the number of days that serum progesterone was > 0.5 ng ml-1) was greater (P < 0.01) in the follicular fluid-treated group compared with the controls (18.7 versus 14.1 days). FSH and follicular growth were suppressed during the period of injection of follicular fluid (P < 0.01 and 0.03, respectively). The objective of Expt 2 was to determine the effect of increased oestradiol on the duration of the luteal phase in cows that were expected to have three follicular waves. Seven cows were injected i.m. three times a day for 4 days with 1 ml oestradiol (100 micrograms ml-1 in corn oil) and seven cows were similarly injected three times a day with 1 ml 0.9% NaCl (control) starting the day after cessation of growth of the second wave dominant follicle. Luteal phase duration was shorter in oestradiol-treated animals than in the controls (14.0 versus 19.0 days; P < 0.04). Serum oestradiol concentrations were higher in the oestradiol-treated group during the period of injection (P < 0.01). In summary, luteolysis was delayed when follicular growth was suppressed with follicular fluid (Expt 1). Exogenous oestradiol administration during the development of uterine oestradiol responsiveness initiated luteolysis earlier compared with control animals (Expt 2).

Expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein messenger ribonucleic acid is limited to theca of healthy bovine follicles collected during recruitment, selection, and dominance of follicles of the first follicular wave

Expression of mRNA encoding steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) in bovine follicles during recruitment and selection was examined. Dairy heifers (4-5/time period) were ovariectomized at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, or 96 h after initiation of the first follicular wave (Time 0) after estrus. Follicles were collected and stored at -80 degrees C until sectioning. Expression of StAR mRNA was localized by in situ hybridization and quantified by image analysis. Expression of StAR mRNA was first detected in theca interna of antral follicles as small as 0.5 mm in diameter and increased with increasing follicular size (>/= 4 mm; r = 0.75; p < 0.001). StAR mRNA was undetectable in granulosa of healthy follicles at any size or stage of follicular wave examined. However, granulosa or luteinized granulosa of some advanced or late atretic follicles expressed StAR mRNA. During recruitment, StAR mRNA expression in theca cells was similar among recruited follicles (4-8 mm). During selection of dominant follicles (36-48 h), StAR mRNA was expressed in theca of more than one follicle (7-9 mm); therefore, expression of StAR mRNA may not be associated with dominant follicle selection. StAR mRNA in theca was higher (p < 0.05) at 48 h after initiation of the first follicular wave than at 12, 24, and 36 h, and it remained elevated thereafter through 96 h. Dominant follicles expressed more (p < 0.01) StAR mRNA in theca than did subordinate healthy follicles. Healthy follicles expressed higher (p < 0.05) StAR mRNA in theca than atretic follicles. In summary, levels of StAR mRNA increased in theca with stage of follicular wave and size of follicles. Follicular atresia was associated with reduced expression of StAR mRNA in theca cells. The results indicate that expression of StAR mRNA in theca may not be the primary limiting factor for follicular recruitment and selection.

Ontogeny of stem cell factor receptor (c-kit) messenger ribonucleic acid in the ovine corpus luteum

Stem cell factor (SCF) is a pleiotropic growth factor that is expressed by the ovine corpus luteum throughout its life span by both small and large steroidogenic cells. Determination of the action of SCF, however, requires localization of its receptor, c-kit; therefore, the objectives of the present study were to identify and localize c-kit within corpora lutea. Two cDNAs encoding different portions of the c-kit molecule were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction. The first was a 558-base pair (bp) cDNA encoding portions of the transmembrane and tyrosine kinase domains; the second was a 632-bp cDNA encoding most of the ligand-binding domain. Expression of c-kit was quantified by RNase protection assay of total cellular RNA collected on Days 3, 7, 10, 13, and 16 (n = 4, 4, 5, 4, and 4 per group, respectively) of the estrous cycle (Day 0 = estrus). The level of c-kit mRNA was low early in the luteal phase, reached (p < 0.05) maximum levels on Day 13, and then decreased (p < 0.01) on Day 16. On Day 3 (n = 4), c-kit was expressed in a cell-specific manner throughout the corpus luteum; identity of the specific cell types expressing c-kit could not be determined at this stage. On Day 14 (n = 4), c-kit did not appear to be expressed within large luteal cells but was prominently expressed in cells that surrounded large luteal cells and that possessed the morphological characteristics of small luteal cells and endothelial cells. Given the temporal regulation of c-kit expression within the corpus luteum, these data suggest that luteal SCF may act locally.

Different strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from ocular infections or inflammation display distinct corneal pathologies in an animal model

PURPOSE

The present investigation sought to define the responses of mouse eyes to challenge with three different strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from human corneas or contact lenses: two different strains produced an ulcerative keratitis, and one strain produced contact lens-induced acute red eye (CLARE).

METHODS

The corneas of BALB/c mice were inoculated with three different strains of P aeruginosa. The strains were allowed to interact with the corneas for up to 24 h. In addition, strain Paerl, isolated from CLARE, was subjected to in vitro assays to measure its ability to invade corneal epithelial cells, or to produce cytotoxicity in these cells. Both these assays used cultured rabbit corneal epithelial cells.

RESULTS

Both MK isolates were able to infect the corneas of mice, but the CLARE isolate was non-infective. The predominant response to infection with the cytotoxic strain was severe corneal edema and infiltration of the corneal stroma with polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). The predominant response with the invasive MK isolate was corneal ulceration and infiltration with PMNs. The CLARE strain produced only low levels of PMN infiltration. In in vitro assays the CLARE strain was non-invasive and non-cytotoxic.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has identified that P. aeruginosa produces at least three different types of corneal pathology and that not all strains are able to infect mouse corneas.

Expression of steroidogenic enzyme and gonadotropin receptor genes in bovine follicles during ovarian follicular waves: a review

Ovarian follicular development in cattle is characterized by waves of growth during the prepubertal and postpartum periods and during estrous cycles. Each wave of follicular growth is characterized by recruitment of a cohort of follicles 4 to 5 mm in diameter. From the cohort, one follicle is selected for continued growth and becomes dominant. If luteolysis occurs during the growth phase of dominant follicles, final maturation and ovulation occurs. If luteolysis does not occur during the growing and maintenance phase of follicles, the fate is atresia. Changes in mRNA expression for the gonadotropin receptors (FSHr and LHr), key steroidogenic enzymes (cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage [P450scc], cytochrome P450 17alpha-hydroxylase-[P450c17], cytochrome P450 aromatase [P450arom], and 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase [3beta-HSD]), and growth factors (IGF-I and -II) and their binding proteins (IGFBP) have been associated with different stages of follicular growth and atresia. In general, expression of mRNA for the gonadotropin receptors, steroidogenic enzymes, and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) increase with progressive follicular development and is highest when dominant follicles approach maximum size. Expression of mRNA declines rapidly and becomes low or undetectable in atretic follicles. The IGF-I (granulosal cells) and IGF-II (thecal cells) are increased, whereas IGFBP-2 (granulosal cells) is reduced, in dominant follicles. Recruitment of a cohort of follicles is associated with initiation of expression of mRNA for P450scc and P450arom in granulosal cells. Selection of dominant follicles is associated with expression of mRNA for LHr and 3beta-HSD in granulosal cells. Thus, changes in gene expression likely are important to recruitment, selection, dominance, and atresia in ovarian follicles.

[Facial soft tissue features analysis of normal Han race adults in Guangdong Province using computer-assisted-photogrammetric-system]

Facial soft tissue profile features of 150 normal native adults of Guangdong Province were analysed using computer-assisted-photogrammetric-system, which contained parameters written by polar coordinate. The results indicated that normal native adults of Guangdong Han race showed sex and region difference in features of facial profile soft tissue, and those parameters written by polar coordinate were helpful in the further study and clinical therapy.

Follicular dominance in cattle is associated with divergent patterns of ovarian gene expression for insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I, IGF-II, and IGF binding protein-2 in dominant and subordinate follicles

A decrease in insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (BP) amount occurs within the follicular fluid of dominant ovarian follicles. At the same time, concentrations of follicular fluid IGF-I do not change. The mRNA for IGF-I, IGF-II, IGFBP-2, and IGFBP-3, in dominant and subordinate follicles were measured to determine if changes in IGF or IGFBP gene expression are associated with follicular dominance. Heifers were ovariectomized during a follicular wave, either during early-dominance (emerging dominant follicle, 9 mm diameter) or mid-dominance (established dominant follicle, 14-16 mm diameter). Follicles were classified as either dominant (DF), subordinate (SF), or not-recruited (NRF; small antral follicles). mRNA was localized by in situ hybridization and measured by image analyses. The IGF-I mRNA (granulosa cells) was greatest in DF and increased in DF, SF, and NRF from early- to mid-dominance. Likewise, IGF-II mRNA (theca cells) was greatest in DF compared with SF or NRF. The IGFBP-2 mRNA (granulosa cells), however, was nearly undetectable in DF, whereas adjacent SF expressed abundant IGFBP-2 mRNA. The NRF were not uniform in their IGFBP-2 expression because only 5 of 13 NRF had IGFBP-2 mRNA. The IGFBP-3 mRNA (granulosa cells) was found only in two NRF, suggesting that local synthesis is not a predominant source of follicular fluid IGFBP-3. These data show that changes in gene expression for IGFBP-2 are opposite to those for IGF-I or IGF-II. Increased IGF-I and IGF-II mRNA and decreased IGFBP-2 mRNA within the DF may be one mechanism leading to follicular dominance. The opposite pattern of IGFBP-2 gene expression in SF and some NRF may lead to follicular atresia.

Regulatory roles of high-density and low-density lipoproteins in cellular proliferation and secretion of progesterone and insulin-like growth factor I by enriched cultures of bovine small and large luteal cells

We tested the hypotheses that bovine high-density (HDL) and low-density (LDL) lipoproteins differentially influence cellular proliferation and progesterone and IGF-I production by bovine small and large luteal cells. Unit gravity sedimentation was used to produce enriched cultures of small (> 95% pure) and large (75 to 90% pure) luteal cells from corpora lutea (CL) on d 4 and 10 of the estrous cycle. Addition of LDL, HDL, or both resulted in the maintenance of higher (P < .05) numbers of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD)-positive small and large cells in culture and produced a marked proliferation of 3beta-HSD-negative small luteal cells compared to control medium. Low-density lipoprotein and HDL each stimulated greater (P < .01) progesterone secretion in enriched large cell cultures on both days of the cycle, and by small luteal cells on d 10, compared to the control. Together, LDL and HDL maximized this response. Lipoproteins markedly stimulated (P < .01) the secretion of IGF-I by bovine large luteal cells, and secretion was greater (P < .05) by cells from d 10 CL compared to d 4 CL. Results suggest that the actions of lipoproteins in bovine luteal cells extend beyond their widely recognized roles in steroidogenesis and include remarkable effects on cellular proliferation and IGF-I secretion. Type of lipoprotein (LDL vs HDL) did not have differential effects on any of the variables measured.

Multiple pregnancy-associated glycoproteins are secreted by day 100 ovine placental tissue

Pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG)-1 (PAG1) and pregnancy-specific protein B are either identical or closely related antigens released by trophoblast binucleate cells of placentas of cattle. Sheep and other ruminants produce similar products. There is evidence, however, that these antigens, which are related structurally to the pepsinogens and other aspartic proteinases, are not single gene products but members of an extensive family. Here, the sequential use of ammonium sulfate precipitation and Sepharose blue, anion-exchange, and cation-exchange chromatographies, as well as isoelectric elution from a Mono P column, has allowed several PAG1-related molecules to be purified from the medium after culture of explants from Day 100 sheep placentas. Each of these PAGs cross-reacted to a varying extent with a panel of three different anti-PAG1 antisera. Four of them, all of which were major secretory products of the placenta, were subjected to amino-terminal microsequencing. Although each was related to ovine (ov) PAG1, none was identical. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was then used to amplify PAG1-related cDNA from Day 100 placental RNA. Seven novel full-length cDNA, all distinct from ovPAG1, were identified from 25 cDNA selected for sequencing. Only two of these (ovPAG3 and ovPAG7) encoded polypeptides identical in sequence at their inferred amino termini to one of the PAGs (ovPAG65) purified from explant cultures. Even so, they were only 84% identical in overall sequence. The remaining five cDNA were unique. In situ hybridization analysis revealed that expression of ovPAG3 and ovPAG7, like that of ovPAG1, is confined to trophoblast binucleate cells. The data confirm that at Day 100 of pregnancy the ovine placenta produces many different PAGs, which differ considerably in sequence and immunological cross-reactivity.

Dietary fats varying in their fatty acid composition differentially influence follicular growth in cows fed isoenergetic diets

The working hypothesis was that dietary fats differing in fatty acid composition would differentially influence ovarian follicular growth. Cows (n = 27) were fed isoenergetic, isonitrogenous, and isofibrous diets containing no added fat (control; CT, n = 7) or diets supplemented with fats containing primarily saturated (SAT, n = 7), polyunsaturated (PU, n = 7), or highly polyunsaturated (HPU, n = 6) fatty acids. Coincident changes in serum lipid metabolites, insulin, and GH and the concentration of IGF-I in large and medium-sized follicles also were examined. Body weights and body condition scores remained similar for all groups throughout the study. Polyunsaturated fat increased (diet x day, P = .06) the number of medium-sized follicles on d 5 through 9 of a synchronized estrous cycle within 3 wk of onset of feeding and maximized (P < .001) this to a fourfold difference at ovariectomy after 7 wk. Fats with predominantly SAT and HPU tended (P < .10) to produce these effects after 7 wk. All fat-supplemented diets increased serum concentrations of total cholesterol (P < .05), GH (P < .05), and follicular fluid IGF-I in large follicles (P < .065) compared to CT but differentially influenced serum concentrations of insulin. Polyunsaturated fat stimulated a marked increase (P < .001) in serum insulin relative to controls within 3 wk, whereas SAT and HPU increased (P < .05) serum insulin only after 6 to 7 wk. We conclude that consumption of PU fatty acids stimulates a greater rate of ovarian follicular growth in cattle compared to CT, AT, and HPU. Future research should investigate the potential role of insulin in mediating PU effects on follicular growth.

[The development and application of computer assisted photogrammetric-system of facial soft tissue running under multiple facilities for taking image]

The photogrammetric-system was developed by using multimedia computer, colour television camera, SE100 video blaster, Newsketch 1212 HR digitizer and by using Visual Basic language. It ran under Windows 3.1 and Windows 95. The features of this system: 1. It had three kinds of functions: photogrammetric function for frontal and profile facial soft tissue, function for managing file and function for forming dynamic data base. 2. It ran under different facilities for taking image (television camera with video blaster, digitizer, scanner) speedily and specificly, and had very friendly interface, and was of multimedia. The application of this system: 1. assisting diagnosing, making plan for treatment and observing results of treatment in clinic of orthodontics, orthopedics and facial plastics, 2. assisting analysing the features of facial soft tissue about certain people, 3. assisting the multimedia teaching.

[The analysis of frontal facial soft tissue of normal native adult of han race of Guangdong province by using the computer assisted photogrammetric-system]

The authors analysed the feature of frontal facial soft tissue of 150 native adults of Guangdong province by using the computer assisted photogrammetric-system made by the authors, which contained several new mode parameters planed by the authors.

THE RESULTS

1. The mean measurements of six parameters (Sn-Mes, Gs-Mes, Exr-Exl, Enr-Enl. [symbol: see text]Zyr-Rc-Mes, [symbol: see text]Zyl-Lc-Mes.) of the male subjects were larger than those of the female subjects, and the mean measurements of two parameters (Zyr-Zyl/Gs-Mes, Rc-Lc/Gs-Mes) of the male subjects were smaller than the ones of the female subjects. 2. The four measurements (Tr-Mes, Gs-Sn, Zyr-Zyl, Chr-Chl) in both male and female subjects of Guangdong province were smaller than the ones of Sichuan and Shandong provinces, and one measurement (Tr-Gs) of Guangdong male subjects was also smaller than the one of Sichuan or Shandong province, and one measurement of Guangdong female subjects smaller than the one of Shandong province. The conclusions: 1. The normal native adults of han race of Guangdong province show sex-difference and region-difference in the feature of frontal facial soft tissue. 2. The new-mode parameters (such as: [symbol: see text]Zyr-RC-Mes, [symbol: see text]Zyl-Lc-Mes, Zyr-Zyl/Gs-Mes, Rc-Lc/Gs-Mes) are helpful in studying the feature of frontal facial soft tissue.

Expression of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) encoding 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase delta4,delta5 isomerase (3beta-HSD) during recruitment and selection of bovine ovarian follicles: identification of dominant follicles by expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA within the granulosa cell layer

The objective of the present study was to examine changes in expression of mRNA encoding 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase delta4,delta5 isomerase (3beta-HSD) during recruitment and selection of bovine ovarian follicles. Dairy heifers (4-5/time period) were ovariectomized at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, or 96 h after initiation of the first follicular wave (Time 0) following estrus. Expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA was localized by in situ hybridization and quantified by image analysis. Expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA was first detected in theca interna cells of preantral follicles with a well-developed theca layer and in granulosa cells of follicles > or = 8 mm in diameter. Regardless of stage of follicular wave, expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA in granulosa cells of follicles > or = 8 mm was correlated with follicular size (r = 0.665; p < 0.01). The 36-h time period appeared to be a transition period for selection since dominant follicles were detected by size and expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA in some cows but not in others. By 48 h after wave initiation, dominant follicles could be identified by both size and expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA. Expression of mRNA for 3beta-HSD in theca cells was higher (p < 0.05) at 24 h than at 12 h and remained elevated thereafter through 96 h. In contrast to theca cells, expression of mRNA for 3beta-HSD was undetectable within granulosa cells at 12 and 24 h. At 36 h, 3beta-HSD mRNA was expressed in granulosa cells of healthy follicles > or = 8 mm, and expression was higher (p < 0.05) at 48 h compared with 36 h. Expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA levels increased further in granulosa cells (p < 0.05) at 84 and 96 h compared to 48 h. Upon detection of mRNA for 3beta-HSD in granulosa cells, high levels of expression were always found in one (dominant) follicle/cow with the exception of two cows at 36 and 84 h that expressed 3beta-HSD mRNA in two large healthy follicles. Expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA was also detectable in granulosa cells of a few large atretic follicles in which remnant granulosa cells appeared to be luteinized. Healthy follicles expressed higher (p < 0.05) levels of 3beta-HSD mRNA in both theca and granulosa cells than did atretic follicles. Expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA in theca cells was higher (p < 0.01) in dominant follicles than in other subordinate healthy follicles. These results indicate that only selected dominant follicles express 3beta-HSD mRNA within granulosa cells, and expression increased in both thecal and granulosa cells during the follicular wave. Therefore, expression of 3beta-HSD mRNA within granulosa cells may be associated with the mechanism of selection of the dominant follicle during a follicular wave and may be required for maximum steroid production during follicular dominance.

Control of extracellular matrix remodelling within ovarian tissues: localization and regulation of gene expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 within the ovine corpus luteum

Extensive extracellular matrix remodelling occurs within the lifespan of the corpus luteum, particularly during corpus luteum formation and regression. A major mechanism for the regulation of extracellular matrix remodelling is via local production of specific proteinase inhibitors, such as the serine proteinase inhibitor plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1). The objective of the present study was to characterize the localization, ontogeny and regulation of PAI-1 expression within ovine corpora lutea. Urokinase binding activity was detected within medium conditioned by ovine luteal cells. Production of PAI-1 by ovine luteal cells was confirmed by immunoprecipitating it from labelled proteins in culture medium. mRNA encoding PAI-1 was present within developing (day 3), mature (day 10) and regressing (30 h after prostaglandin F2 alpha injection on day 10 after the onset of oestrus) corpora lutea as demonstrated by in situ hybridization. The ontogeny of PAI-1 mRNA expression was characterized within corpora lutea collected on days 3, 7, 10, 13 and 16 after the onset of oestrus (n = 4, 4, 4, 3 and 4, respectively). Expression of PAI-1 mRNA did not differ during the luteal phase (P = 0.06), although a trend for an increase in the amount of PAI-1 mRNA was observed on day 16. Expression of PAI-1 mRNA was also examined during luteal regression in corpora lutea collected 0, 6, 12, 24 and 36 h after injection of prostaglandin F2 alpha on day 10 after the onset of oestrus (n = 4 at each time). Relative PAI-1 mRNA concentrations changed significantly during luteolysis induced by prostaglandin F2 alpha (P = 0.0002). Administration of prostaglandin F2 alpha resulted in a transient sevenfold increase in PAI-1 mRNA 6 h after injection (P = 0.0001) but by 12 h the amounts had returned to values similar to those detected on day 10. We conclude that PAI-1 is a major secretory product of ovine luteal cells and that a transient increase in PAI-1 mRNA occurs during luteolysis induced by prostaglandin F2 alpha. PAI-1 probably plays a key local role in the control of extracellular proteolysis during the luteal phase.

Changes in messenger ribonucleic acid encoding luteinizing hormone receptor, cytochrome P450-side chain cleavage, and aromatase are associated with recruitment and selection of bovine ovarian follicles

The objective of this study was to investigate changes in expression of mRNAs encoding FSH receptor (FSHr), LH receptor (LHr), cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage (P450(scc)), cytochrome P450 17alpha-hydroxylase (P450(c17)), and cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450(arom)) during recruitment and selection of bovine ovarian follicles. Dairy heifers (4-5 per group) were ovariectomized at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, or 96 h after initiation of the first follicular wave following estrus as determined by ultrasonography (Time 0 = initiation of follicular wave; mean +/- SEM = 42.0 +/- 2.6 h after estrus). Expression of mRNAs encoding FSHr, LHr, P450(scc), P450(c17), and P450(arom) was detected by in situ hybridization and quantified by image analysis. Antral follicles were classified as healthy or atretic. Healthy follicles expressed higher (p < 0.01) amounts of mRNAs for gonadotropin receptors and steroidogenic enzymes than did atretic follicles, and expression of LHr, FSHr, P450(scc), P450(c17), and P450(arom) increased (p < 0.01) with follicular size and stage of the follicular wave. Expression of mRNAs for P450(scc), P450(arom), and LHr was time- and size-dependent during recruitment and selection. During recruitment, expression of mRNAs for P450(scc) and P450(arom) was first detected in granulosa cells of 16 of 21 of the follicles 4-6 mm in diameter at 12 h. At 24 and 36 h, almost all follicles 6-9 mm in diameter, but not those 4-5 mm in diameter, expressed both P450(scc) and P450(arom) mRNA in the granulosa cells. At 48 h and thereafter, P450(scc) and P450(arom) mRNA were expressed predominantly in one healthy large follicle per cow with a few exceptions. Expression of LHr mRNA was first detected in granulosa cells at 36 h and was always found in granulosa cells of one follicle > or = 8 mm per cow with exception of one cow at 36 h (no expression) and another two cows, one each at 36 and at 84 h (expression in 2 follicles). In addition, LHr mRNA expression in the granulosa cell layer was limited to follicles that also expressed mRNAs for P450(scc) and P450(arom) in the granulosa cells. In summary, follicular recruitment in cattle was associated with expression of P450(scc) and P450(arom) mRNA within granulosa cells, and the process of follicular selection was associated with initiation of LHr mRNA expression in granulosa cells.

Steroidogenic activity, insulin-like growth factor-I production, and proliferation of granulosa and theca cells obtained from dominant preovulatory and nonovulatory follicles during the bovine estrous cycle: effects of low-density and high-density lipoproteins

The role of high- and low-density lipoproteins (HDL and LDL) in regulating steroidogenic activity, cellular viability and proliferation, and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) production was examined in granulosa and theca cells from dominant preovulatory (DO) and nonovulatory (DNO) bovine follicles. Follicles were obtained from pluriparous nonlactating beef cows at ovariectomy 24 h after administration of a luteolytic dose of prostaglandin F2 alpha (DO) or during the first follicular wave on Days 5-8 of the estrous cycle (DNO). Lipoprotein effects on hormone production (ng/1.5 x 10(5) viable cells) and cell viability were studied in serum-free, defined medium containing LH and FSH (granulosa) or LH only (theca). During late stages (96-144 h) of culture, HDL in the presence of gonadotropins increased (p < 0.001) the production of progesterone by granulosa and theca cells and the production of IGF-I by granulosa cells. LDL did not stimulate granulosa or thecal progesterone synthesis and attenuated HDL-stimulated progesterone production by both cell types. Gonadotropin stimulation of terminal synthetic pathways was either attenuated (granulosa estradiol production) by addition of lipoproteins or maximally stimulated (theca cell androstenedione production) by a combination of LDL and HDL. Both lipoproteins increased (p < 0.05) granulosa cell viability in both follicle types, and a marked proliferation (p < 0.001) of steroidogenically inactive theca cells was observed from DO but not DNO follicles. Proliferation potential appeared to be switched off during the late stages of maturation of DNO follicles and switched on after induced luteal regression and rescue of DO follicles.

Metabolic and luteal sequelae to heightened dietary fat intake in undernourished, anestrous beef cows induced to ovulate

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary fat supplementation and a synthetic progestogen on metabolic hormone patterns and(or) in vitro and in vivo characteristics of induced corpora lutea (CL) in undernourished, post-partum beef cows. Metabolizable energy intake was restricted in all cows in both experiments before calving to achieve a body condition (BC) score of 4 (thin), with cows fed to maintain BW and condition after calving. In Exp. 1, 16 cows were fed isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets after calving with either no added fat (NL, n = 8) or added fat (HL, n = 8; .374 kg of fat/500 kg BW). In Exp. 2, 32 pluriparous cows that had reached targeted body condition were divided randomly at calving into a 2 x 2 factorial treatment arrangement: 1) HL-no implant; HL-CON, 2) HL-norgestomet implant d 14 to 21; HL-NORG, 3) NL-CON and, 4) NL-NORG. Forty-eight-hour calf removal on d 21 and GnRH on d 23 were used to induce CL. The HL diet increased (P < .03) serum growth hormone (GH) concentrations, changed the puerperal pattern of serum insulin from cubic (P < .05) to linear (P < .05), and increased (P < .01) the in vitro production of IGF-I by luteal tissue (Exp. 1). In Exp. 2, both HL diets and NORG treatments (HL-NORG, HL-CON, NL NORG) tended to promote an increased (P < .09) frequency of luteal activity after GnRH, but only HL-CON and NL-NORG enhanced (P < .04) luteal lifespan.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)