The level of blood lead painter workers Rafsanjan city and its correlation with risk factors for cardiovascular disease in 2019

Introduction: Painters are exposed to various chemical harmful agents such as lead particles in paints. Some studies have suggested a possible association of occupational exposure that may cause cardiovascular effects. Lead is absorbed through the body through the skin, skin, and respiratory tract and penetrates some tissues. Considering the importance of labor health in each country's development and progress, this study was conducted to determine the amount of lead in the blood of painters in Rafsanjan in 2019. Materials and Methods: The present study is a cross-sectional study of the descriptive type conducted in 1397 on 77 painters of Rafsanjan city. Data collection was done in two stages, in the first stage, based on a checklist that included demographic information, and in the second stage by performing laboratory tests. Finally, by recording the data in SPSS software, quantitative data was reported as a "mean ± standard deviation" and qualitative information as a "number (percent)". Results: Of the 77 painter workers, the youngest is 21, and the oldest is 70 years old. A total of 20 people (26%) had a family history of heart attacks. The highest amount of lead in the blood of painters was reported to be 30.7 micrograms per deciliter, and the level of lead was most correlated with blood sugar. Sixty people (77.9%) painters used personal protective equipment. 49.4% of the study's painters wore work clothes, and 28.6% used gloves while working. Lead levels are directly related to blood sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, age, work experience, and blood sugar levels were most correlated with the level of lead in painters' blood. Conclusion: This study's findings show that due to the increase in the work experience of painters, their blood lead level has also increased, and the blood sugar level has had the highest correlation with the lead level in the painters' blood.

Detection of bacteria in bovine ovarian follicular fluid

The aim of this study was to examine the sterility of follicular fluid in large ovarian follicles in dairy cows. In all, 17 samples of paired follicular fluids and uterine contents collected from post-slaughtered dairy cows were cultured to detect aerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria. Furthermore, the origin of the bacterial isolates from samples of follicular fluid and the uteri was also investigated using PFGE analysis. Follicular fluid concentrations of lipopolysaccharides were also determined. Of 17 uterine samples, 15 (88%) were detected as contaminated. In total, nine different bacterial genera and species were identified in the uterine and follicular fluid samples. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacterial species isolated from the uterine samples. Out of seven isolates of Staphylococcus aureus from the uterine samples, 6 (85%) were coagulase positive. Six isolates of Staphylococcus spp. were identified in 6 out of 17 follicular fluid samples (35%). Two out of six isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus (33%). Our results show that ovarian follicular fluid is not sterile in the bovine. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus in follicular fluid may partly explain the occurrence of infertility in some dairy cows. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The results of the present study show that ovarian follicular fluid is not sterile in bovines. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus in follicular fluid may partly explain the occurrence of infertility in some dairy cows.

Inherent inferior quality of follicular fluid in repeat breeder heifers as evidenced by low rates of in vitro production of bovine embryos

The aims of the present study were to determine the effect of follicular fluid obtained from the ovulatory follicle of repeat breeder heifers on in vitro oocyte maturation (Experiment 1), fertilization (Experiment 2) and production of bovine embryos (Experiment 3). Holstein virgin heifers (VH, n = 5) with normal fertility or repeat breeder syndrome (RBH, n = 5) were used in the present study. Follicular fluid of VH and RBH was aspirated from ovulatory follicles and used as maturation medium. Bovine oocytes were aspirated from follicles of slaughterhouse ovaries and randomly allocated in three groups; in Group 1, oocytes cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% heat-treated fetal calf serum and hormones (5 IU/mL hCG plus 0.1 IU/mL rFSH); in Group 2, oocytes cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% filtered follicular fluid of VH without hormones; in Group 3, oocytes cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% filtered follicular fluid of RBH without hormones. The mean (±SEM) percentage of matured oocytes was different between VH and RBH groups (72.2 ± 4.0 vs 56.4 ± 4.6%; P < 0.05, respectively). Further, the mean (±SEM) percentage of normal oocyte fertilization was higher in the VH than the RBH group (49.3 ± 2.1 vs 32.0 ± 4.2; P < 0.05, respectively). The mean percentage of embryos developed to the blastocyst stage was higher in the VH than the RBH group (12.0 ± 1.3 vs 7.0 ± 1.6; respectively; P < 0.05). In conclusion, our findings support our hypothesis that the ovulatory follicle microenvironment of Holstein repeat breeder heifers places their oocytes at a developmental disadvantage compared with Holstein fertile virgin heifers and that this suggest the existence of an inherent inferior quality of the ovulatory follicle microenvironment in repeat breeding Holstein heifers.

A confident source of hard X-rays: radiation from a tokamak applicable for runaway electrons diagnosis

In a tokamak with a toroidal electric field, electrons that exceed the critical velocity are freely accelerated and can reach very high energies. These so-called `runaway electrons' can cause severe damage to the vacuum vessel and are a dangerous source of hard X-rays. Here the effect of toroidal electric and magnetic field changes on the characteristics of runaway electrons is reported. A possible technique for runaways diagnosis is the detection of hard X-ray radiation; for this purpose, a scintillator (NaI) was used. Because of the high loop voltage at the beginning of a plasma, this investigation was carried out on toroidal electric field changes in the first 5 ms interval from the beginning of the plasma. In addition, the toroidal magnetic field was monitored for the whole discharge time. The results indicate that with increasing toroidal electric field the mean energy of runaway electrons rises, and also an increase in the toroidal magnetic field can result in a decrease in intensity of magnetohydrodynamic oscillations which means that for both conditions more of these high-energy electrons will be generated.

Reproductive responses of dairy cows with ovarian cysts to simultaneous human chorionic gonadotropin or gonadotropin-releasing hormone and cloprostenol compared to gonadotropin-releasing hormone alone treatment

Aim:

Bovine ovarian cysts are a common cause of economic loss in modern dairy herds. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the reproductive responses to three protocols using hCG, GnRH and cloprostenol when the definite diagnosis of the type of ovarian cyst is/is not possible in dairy cows.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 144 lactating dairy cows with ovarian cysts were divided into three groups. At diagnosis (Day 0), cows in Group 1 (the conventional method, n=47) were injected with 0.02 mg of a GnRH analogue i.m. (Buserelin); cows in Group 2 (n=47) were intramuscularly treated with 0.02 mg Buserelin plus 500 µg cloprostenol; and cows in Group 3 (n=50) were intramuscularly treated with 1500 IU hCG plus 500 µg cloprostenol. All cows received 500 µg cloprostenol intramuscularly on Day 10.

Results:

No statistically significant differences were found in the recovery time, interval to conception, conception rate at first AI, and pregnancy rates by Days 70 and 100 after treatment among the three groups.

Conclusions:

Simultaneous treatment of ovarian cysts with hCG or GnRH and cloprostenol appeared to have no advantage over the conventional method, GnRH alone, in dairy cows. Furthermore, hCG and GnRH have an equal therapeutic effect in cows with ovarian cysts.

Functional histology of the ovarian follicles as determined by follicular fluid concentrations of steroids and IGF-1 in Camelus dromedarius

Ovaries were collected from sexually mature non-pregnant dromedary she-camels. Follicles 6 to 19 mm in diameter per pair of ovaries were randomly selected and classified into clear (n = 30), or opaque (n = 14) based on macroscopic examination of the follicle surface, and then were divided into four classes: clear follicles with 6- 9.9 and 10-19 mm diameter; opaque follicles with 6- 9.9 and 10-19 mm diameter. Follicular fluid (FF) was aspirated for measurement of estradiol-17β, progesterone and IGF-I concentrations, and then a section of tissue through the exposed surface of the follicle wall was removed and fixed in and processed for histological examination. Mean (±SE) number of clear follicles observed on the ovaries that contained a large dominant follicle was less than that on the ovaries which contained a large atretic follicle (p < 0.05; 2.6 ± 1 vs 8.6 ± 0.6). In conclusion, the estrogenic large follicles have suppressive effects on the growth of other follicles.

294 EFFECTS OF FOLLICULAR FLUID OBTAINED FROM REPEAT BREEDER DAIRY HEIFER ON MATURATION OF BOVINE OOCYTES IN VITRO

The cause of repeat breeding syndrome is often difficult to explain in dairy heifers with no clinical abnormalities. The aim of the present experiment was to determine the effect of follicular fluid obtained from the preovulatory follicle of repeat breeder heifers on maturation of bovine oocytes in vitro. Holstein virgin heifers either with normal fertility (VH, n = 5) or repeat breeder syndrome (RB, n = 5) were used in the present experiment. The RB heifers had a history of at least 5 unsuccessful consequent artificial breeding. The reason for using such RB heifers was to exclude the possibility of the presence of usual causes of infertility in heifers. Oestrus cycles of all heifers were synchronized using 2 injections of PGF2a 11 days apart. Six to 12 h after oestrus detection, clear follicular fluid samples from the ovulatory follicles were collected transrectally using a long fine-needle covered by a hard plastic tube. Follicular fluid samples were pooled, centrifuged, and frozen until used in the maturation medium. A total of 483 good or excellent quality bovine cumulus-oocytes complexes (COC) were obtained from 2 to 6 mm follicles in diameter from slaughterhouse ovaries and randomly allocated in 3 groups; in group 1 (control, n = 180), oocytes were cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% heat-treated fetal calf serum and hormones (5 IU mL–1 of hCG plus 0.1 IU mL–1 of rFSH); in group 2 (n = 126), oocytes were cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% filtered follicular fluid of VH without hormones; in group 3 (n = 177), oocytes were cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with 10% filtered follicular fluid of RB heifers without hormones. All oocytes were cultured for 24 h at 39°C in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 under 90% humidity. At the end of maturation, the degree of cumulus expansion was evaluated and scored under a stereomicroscope. Then, oocytes were mechanically denuded using 3% sodium citrate and repeated pipetting and were fixed in ethanol/acetic acid (3 : 1) for 24 h. The oocytes were subsequently stained with 1% aceto-orcein and evaluated for meiotic resumption. Proportions were statistically analysed using a Chi-squared test (significant at P < 0.05; SPSS program, 11.5). The percentages of fully expanded COC differed among groups (P < 0.001). The maturation rate (MII stage) was 83% (150/180) in oocytes that were cultured in the presence of FCS as the control group. However, a reduction in the maturation rate was observed when oocytes were cultured either in VH follicular fluid (71.4%, 90/126; P < 0.01) or RB follicular fluid (59.3%, 105/177; P < 0.001) compared to the control group. The percentages of matured oocytes were also different between VH and RB follicular fluid (71.4 v. 59.3%; P < 0.01, respectively). In conclusion, the quality of follicular fluid of the preovulatory follicles of repeat breeder heifers is lower than that of the virgin heifers with normal fertility. This may explain the cause of the low fertility in some repeat breeder Holstein heifers.

Gene expression pattern of adiponectin and adiponectin receptors in dominant and atretic follicles and oocytes screened based on brilliant cresyl blue staining

Adiponectin and its receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) are novel endocrine systems that act at various levels to control male and female fertility. The aim of this study was to determine whether adiponectin and its receptors gene expression levels differ between dominant follicle (DF) and atretic follicle (AF) and also between oocytes which were stained positively and negatively with brilliant cresyl blue (BCB(+) and BCB(-)). Based on estradiol/progesterone ratio, follicles from ovaries were classified as AFs and DFs. The stages of estrous cycle (follicular or luteal phases) were defined by macroscopic observation of the ovaries and the uterus. Oocytes were stained with BCB for 90 min. The relative expression of adiponectin, AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 mRNA in theca and cumulus cells and oocytes of different follicles were determined by quantitative real time PCR. Adiponectin and its receptors genes were clearly expressed higher (P<0.05) in theca and cumulus cells and oocytes of DFs than those of AFs during the follicular and luteal phases. BCB(+) oocytes showed a higher (P<0.05) expression of adiponectin and its receptors compared with their BCB(-) counterparts. Positive correlation (r>0.725, P<0.001) was observed between adiponectin mRNA level in ovarian cells of DFs and follicular fluid E2 concentration in follicular phase. Adiponectin mRNA abundance in ovarian cells of AFs showed a significant negative correlation with follicular fluid progesterone concentration in follicular and luteal phases (r<-0.731, P<0.001). This work has revealed the novel association of adiponectin and its receptors genes with follicular dominance and oocyte competence, thereby opening several new avenues of research into the mechanisms of dominance and competence in animal and human.

Relationship between different concentrations of the plasma progesterone at the time of FSH-P treatment and the superovulatory response in Holstein dairy heifers

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of two different concentrations of plasma progesterone at the time of FSH-P treatment on the superovulatory response in dairy heifers. Sixteen reproductively sound Holstein heifers (13-15 months of age) were used in this study. Superovulatory treatment was commenced at mid-dioestrus (Day 10 ± 2 of the oestrous cycle) of the synchronized (using two injections of PGF2α, 11 days apart) oestrous cycles. Blood samples were collected on the day and the day after commencing FSH-P treatment and at oestrus for plasma progesterone determination. Heifers were grouped based on two levels of plasma progesterone; Group low progesterone (LP; ranging from 2 to 4.5 ng /ml; n = 7) and Group high progesterone (HP; ≥ 4.6 ng /ml; n = 8) at the beginning of FSH-P treatment (one heifer was excluded from the statistical analysis because of the abnormal progesterone level at oestrus). The superovulatory response in terms of mean numbers of palpable corpora lutea (ovulation rate) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in group LP than group HP. Ovulation rate was negatively correlated (r = -0.51) with the progesterone concentration at the time of commencing FSH-P treatment (p < 0.05). Data suggest that varying concentrations of plasma progesterone at the time of FSH-P treatment may have a different effect on the outcome of superovulatory response in dairy heifers.

Effects of right ventricular septal versus apical pacing on plasma natriuretic peptide levels

Background:

To investigate the contribution of right ventricular (RV) pacing sites to the cardiac function, this study compares plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels during RV septal and apical pacing in patients implanted with a pacemaker.

Materials and Methods and Results:

Seventy-four consecutive patients with indication for permanent pacing were included. To provide for the possibility of appropriate subgroup analyses, patients were stratified according to their pacing mode into two groups: Those with dual chamber DDD(R)/VDD pacemakers (41 patients, mean age 54.1±18.4 years), and those with single chamber VVI pacemakers (33 patients, mean age 60.6±18.4 years). A prospective single-blinded randomized design was used. Randomization (1:1 way) was between lead placement on the RV septum or RV apex and occurred during the implant in both groups. Compared to baseline, a significant decrease in BNP (429.8±103 pg/ml and 291.7±138 pg/ml, respectively) levels was observed during DDD(R) /VDD pacing after two months. In contrast, during VVI (R) pacing, a significant increase in BNP levels was observed (657.5±104 pg/ml and 889.5±139 pg/ml, respectively). To determine the impact of pacing sites on cardiac function, we assessed the changes in BNP levels in each group separately. Despite the significant difference in the pattern of changes between the two groups (P < 0.02), no significant changes were observed within groups regarding the acute effect of the pacing site (RV apex vs. RV septal) on BNP levels (P=NS).

Conclusions:

Our main result showed no significant differences between pacing sites and concluded that hemodynamic improvement could be substantially influenced by pacing mode, more than by pacing site.

Contributions of wastewater, runoff and sewer deposit erosion to wet weather pollutant loads in combined sewer systems

An observatory of urban pollutants was created in Paris for the purpose of assessing the dynamics of wastewater and wet weather flow (WW and WWF) pollutant loads within combined sewers. This observatory is composed of six urban catchments, covering land areas ranging in size from 42 ha to 2581 ha. For a wide array of parameters including total suspended solids (TSS), chemical and biochemical oxygen demand (COD and BOD(5)), total organic carbon (TOC), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), heavy metals (Cu and Zn) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), this article is intended to evaluate the contributions of wastewater, runoff and in-sewer processes to WWF pollutant loads through the use of an entry-exit mass balance approach. To achieve this objective, a total of 16 rain events were sampled on these sites between May 2003 and February 2006. This study has confirmed that at the considered catchment scale (i.e. from 42 ha to 2581 ha) the production and transfer processes associated with WWF pollutant loads do not vary with basin scale. Entry-exit chemical mass balances over all catchments and for a large number of rain events indicate that wastewater constitutes the main source of organic and nitrogenous pollution, while runoff is the predominant source of Zn. For Cu, PAHs and TSS, the calculation underscores the major role played by in-sewer processes, specifically by sediment erosion, as a source of WWF pollution. A significant loss of dissolved metals was also observed during their transfer within the sewer network, likely as a consequence of the adsorption of dissolved metals on TSS and/or on sewer deposits. Moreover, the nature of eroded particles was examined and compared to the various sewer deposits. This comparison has highlighted that such particles exhibit similar organic and PAH contents to those measured in the organic layer, thus suggesting that the deposit eroded during a wet weather period is organic and of a nature comparable to the organic layer. Despite the extent of initial field investigations, no organic deposit was observed to be present on sewer lines within the catchments, which implies that this organic deposit is probably present in another form or to be found elsewhere in the main trunks.

Effects of water deficit and spraying of dessicant on yield, yield components and water use efficiency of wheat genotypes

To evaluate yield, yield components and water use efficiency of bread wheat in water stress conditions and spraying of dessicant, a field experiment was carried out in 2006-2007 and 2007-2008. Main plots were assigned to two levels of water stress treatments; D1: optimum irrigation and D2: cessation of watering from anthesis to maturity stages. Sub plots were assigned to eight bread wheat genotypes; and assimilates limitations with two levels: P1: no source limitation and P2: inhibition of current photosynthesis were in sub-sub plots. Grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, the number of grains per spike, thousand grain weight and water use efficiency were significantly influenced by irrigation treatments and source limitation. Grain Yield (GY) significantly decreased by 35 and 68% under water deficiency and postanthesis photosynthetic inhibition, respectively; compared with control. Water use efficiency was higher for well-watered compared with postanthesis drought stress conditions. WUEgrain decrease due to water deficit was attributed to grain yield reduction. Under water stress, current photosynthetic inhibition reduced grain yield by 62%, but under well-watered condition; it significantly decreased grain yield by 71%, that indicate the source is limititing factor under different irrigation regimes. Considering that C-81-10, 9103 and 9116 genotypes showed the highest grain yield, potential for reserves and remobilizations of assimilates under different irrigation conditions; thus, these genotypes could be introduced as promising in breeding programs for arid and semi-arid regions.

Changes in the gene expression of adiponectin and adiponectin receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) in ovarian follicular cells of dairy cow at different stages of development

Adiponectin is one of the most important, recently discovered adipocytokines that acts at various levels to control male and female fertility through central effects on the hypothalamus-pituitary axis or through peripheral effects on the ovary, uterus, and embryo. We studied simultaneous changes in the gene expression pattern of adiponectin and adiponectin receptors 1 and 2 (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) in granulosa and theca cells, cumulus-oocyte complex, and in corpus luteum in healthy bovine (Bos tarus) follicles at different stages of development. The expression levels of adiponectin, AdipoR1, and AdipoR2 mRNA were lower (P<0.05) in granulosa and cumulus cells in comparison with that in theca cells and oocyte. In contrast with the oocyte, AdipoR1 in granulosa, theca, and luteal cells was expressed (P<0.05) more than AdipoR2. Adiponectin expression increased (P<0.05) in granulosa cells and in cumulus-oocyte complex during follicular development from small to large follicles. Opposite results were observed in theca cells. Expression of adiponectin was highest in the late stages of corpus luteum (CL) regression, whereas lower expression was recorded in active CL (P<0.05). AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 expression increased during the terminal follicular growth in granulosa and theca cells (P<0.05) and during the luteal phase progress in CL. There was positive correlation between adiponectin mRNA level in granulosa cells from large follicles and follicular fluid estradiol concentration (r=0.48, P<0.05) and negative correlation between adiponectin mRNA abundance in theca cells and follicular fluid progesterone concentration (r=-0.44, P<0.05). In conclusion, we found that the physiologic status of the ovary has significant effects on the natural expression patterns of adiponectin and its receptors in follicular and luteal cells of bovine ovary.

Effects of Increased Ambient Temperature During IVM and/or IVF on the In Vitro Development of Bovine Zygotes

Previous research by this group (2003) has demonstrated that heat stress during in vitro culture (IVC) significantly increased early embryo mortality. The experiments reported here examine the effects of heat treatment (HT) during in vitro maturation (IVM) and during in vitro fertilization (IVF). One 24 h cycle of HT entailed a series of 0.5 degrees C incubator temperature increases from 39 degrees C to 39.5 degrees C for 2 h, to 40 degrees C for 2 h, to 40.5 degrees C for 4 h, 41 degrees C for 4 h, 40.5 degrees C for 6 h and 40 degrees C for 6 h. This cycle mimics rectal temperatures recorded in high producing, grain fed dairy cows in hot climates. Experiment I studied the effects of one cycle of heat-treatment during IVF on the rate of cleavage of in vitro matured presumptive zygotes. Total cleavage rate in the HT group (37.8%) was lower than that of the control group (54.6%, p < 0.05). Experiment II repeated the HT of experiment I but preceded it with a cycle of HT during IVM. The total cleavage rates for control and heat treatment groups were 75.5% and 37.9%, respectively, with a significant difference of p < 0.001 identified. Experiment III examined the rates of embryonic development to >or=8-cell stage (after 72 h IVC) and to morula or blastocyst (M/B) stage (after 144 h IVC) following HT of the oocyte groups during the preceding IVM or IVF. Rates of development to >or=8-cell stage (at 72 h IVC) and to M/B stage (after 144 h IVC) for the control group were 27.5% and 35.8%. Those of IVM-only HT and IVF-only HT groups were 13.8% and 14.6%, and 8.6% and 14.3%, respectively. Both groups of heat treated embryos developed at significantly lower rates (p < 0.05) than did the control group. These results suggest that hyperthermia during oocyte maturation and/or fertilization adversely affects oocyte maturation and fertilization rates and retards further embryonic development.

Chronological and ultrastructural changes in camel (Camelus dromedarius) oocytes during in vitro maturation

Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from non-pregnant camels at a local slaughterhouse by aspiration from antral follicles (2-6 mm). In Experiment I, camel COCs (n=304) were matured in vitro in Hams-F10, fixed at different time intervals (6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, or 48 h) and stained with 1% aceto-orcein to assess nuclear changes in culture. A majority of the oocytes (81.5%) underwent germinal vesicle break down (GVBD) between 6 and 12h. Forty-eight percent of the oocytes were observed at the metaphase I (M I) stage by 18 h culture. The percentage of matured oocytes (M II stage) at 30 and 42 h were 66.5 and 71% respectively, which were significantly (p<0.05) different to that observed at 24 h (42.5%). In Experiment II, after different periods of culture (12, 24, 36, or 48 h), the COCs (n=26) were processed for transmission electron microscopy. Expansion of both the cumulus and corona radiate cells occurred between 12 and 24 h in the majority of oocytes concomitant with enlargement of the cumulus cell process endings (CCPEs) in the developed perivitelline space. After 12 h of culture disruption of the junctions between CCPEs and the oolemma was observed together with and breakdown of the GV. For 24-36 h of culture cortical granules had spread and aligned along the oolemma. Signs of degeneration in the cytoplasmic organelles of the oocytes were also observed from less than 36 h. After 48 h of culture, larger vesicles and lipid droplets had appeared in the central part of the oocytes and showed uneven distribution throughout the ooplasm. Predominantly non-penetrating CCPEs were also observed in four oocytes by 48 h. In conclusion, based on both light and electron microscopic evaluations, the optimal culture time for the development of competent Camelus dromedarius oocytes in vitro appears to be 30 h using Hams-F10 medium.

Differential staining combined with TUNEL labelling to detect apoptosis in preimplantation bovine embryos

Development of accurate laboratory methods to assess embryo quality will improve the efficiency of embryo production from in-vitro culture systems. Currently, the techniques of TdT (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase)-mediated dUDP nick-end (TUNEL) labelling for the detection of apoptosis, and differential staining for determining the ratio of inner cell mass (ICM) to trophectoderm (TE) cells, are used separately to assess embryo quality in a range of different species. This paper reports a unique, simple and fast method for the assessment of embryo quality using differential staining of TE and ICM, but combined with TUNEL labelling (DST staining). This technique was used to investigate the effect of serum supplementation on total cell number, ICM:TE ratio and apoptosis index after in-vitro production of bovine embryos. Serum supplementation increased total cell number (P < 0.01), but reduced the ratio of ICM:TE cells. No differences were observed in the number of apoptotic nuclei between treatments, or in the localization of the apoptotic nuclei. However, more apoptotic nuclei were observed in ICM than TE cells in both culture groups. In conclusion, using DST, it has been possible to carry out both a qualitative and quantitative analysis of embryos produced using the two different methods. DST provides a means of assessing the effect of culture conditions on cell number of both embryo compartments (ICM and TE), as well as providing information on the localization of apoptotic nuclei within the blastocyst.

Light and Transmission Electron Microscopy of Immature Camelus Dromedarius Oocyte

In order to provide a consistent system for laboratory production of embryos, the characteristics of immature camel oocyte must first be described. The objective of this study was to define ultrastructural features of immature camel oocyte. Ovaries were obtained from camels at a local abattoir, and then transported to the laboratory within 2 h. Camelus cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated from 2-6 mm follicles using a 22-gauge needle. Excellent and good quality COCs were selected and prepared for transmission electron microscopy study using a cavity slide. The fine structure of camel oocyte is morphologically similar to that of other mammalian oocytes. However, some minor differences exist between COC of camel and other mammalian species. Different size and shape of membrane-bound vesicles, lipid droplet, mitochondria and cortical granules were distributed throughout the ooplasm. Discrete or in association with endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes were observed in the periphery of the oocytes. The majority of the oocytes were in the germinal vesicle stage.

Studies of the pathogenesis of bovine pestivirus-induced ovarian dysfunction in superovulated dairy cattle

Two experiments (Experiment I, n=12 Holstein-Friesian heifers; Experiment II, n=8 Jersey cows) were conducted to investigate the pathogenesis of bovine pestivirus-induced ovarian dysfunction in cattle. In both experiments the cattle were superovulated with twice daily injections of a porcine pituitary extract preparation of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH-P), for 4 days commencing on Day 10+/-2 after a presynchronised oestrus. The heifers received a total dose of 30 mg and the cows 32 mg of FSH-P. Prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) was administered 48 h after commencement of superovulation and all cattle were artificially inseminated (AI) between 48 and 66h after PGF(2alpha) treatment. In both experiments bovine pestivirus seronegative cattle (Experiment I, n=6; Experiment II, n=4) were inoculated intranasally with an Australian strain of non-cytopathogenic bovine pestivirus (bovine viral diarrhoea virus Type 1) 9 days prior to AI. Bovine pestivirus infection was confirmed by seroconversion and/or virus isolation in all of the inoculated cattle, consistent with a viremia occurring approximately between Day 5 prior to AI and the day of AI. Ovarian function was monitored in both experiments by daily transrectal ultrasonography and strategic blood sampling to determine progesterone, oestradiol-17beta, luteinising hormone (LH) and cortisol profiles. Non-surgical ova/embryo recovery was performed on Day 7 after AI. In Experiment II half the cattle were slaughtered on Day 2 and the remainder on Day 8 after AI, and the ovaries submitted for gross and histopathological examination including immunohistochemistry to demonstrate the presence of bovine pestivirus antigen. In both studies, comparisons were made between infected and confirmed uninfected (control) animals. Overall the bovine pestivirus infected cattle had significantly lower (P<0.05) ova/embryo recovery rates compared to the control cattle. There was evidence of either an absence (partial or complete) of a preovulatory LH surge or delay in timing of the LH peak in the majority (90%) of infected heifers and cows, and histologically, there was evidence of non-suppurative oophoritis with necrosis of granulosa cells and the oocyte in follicles from the infected cows. By contrast only 20% of the control heifers and cows had evidence of absence of a pre-ovulatory LH surge. These experiments collectively demonstrate that bovine pestivirus infection during the period of final growth of preovulatory follicles may result in varying degrees of necrosis of the granulosa cells with subsequent negative effects on oestradiol-17beta secretion which in turn negatively affects the magnitude and/or timing of the preovulatory LH surge.

In vitro maturation and fertilization of bovine oocytes and in vitro culture of presumptive zygotes in the presence of bovine pestivirus

A pathogen which has been shown to commonly contaminate in vitro bovine embryo production system is bovine pestivirus (bovine viral diarrhea virus). Three experiments were designed to evaluate the in vitro maturation (experiment I), fertilization (experiment II) and embryo development (experiment III) of immature oocytes, inseminated oocytes and presumptive zygotes in the presence of a bovine pestivirus (non-cytopathic, nCP type 1). The virus inoculum used was derived from a persistently infected cow. In experiment I, follicular oocytes (n=1257) recovered from slaughterhouse derived ovaries were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=578) which did not become exposed to bovine pestivirus and a treatment group (n=679) which was inoculated with bovine pestivirus (2.20-3.69 log(10) TCID(50)/50 microl) at the time of commencement of in vitro maturation. Overall, there was no significant difference between the control and pestivirus inoculated oocytes in either the cumulus cell expansion rate (79+/-7.5% versus 74+/-10.7%) or the nuclear maturation rate (89+/-4.8% versus 85+/-7.4%), respectively. In experiment II, in vitro matured oocytes (n=607) were inseminated either in the absence (control; n=301) or the presence of bovine pestivirus (4-4.6 log(10) TCID(50)/50 microl; n=306). A significant (P<0.01) reduction in the overall number of fertilized oocytes with two well formed male and female pronuclei was observed in the treatment group compared to the control group (58.5+/-5.8% versus 73.3+/-3.6%, respectively). In experiment III, after in vitro maturation and fertilization, presumptive zygotes were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=139) which was not exposed to bovine pestivirus or a treatment group which was inoculated with bovine pestivirus (2.97-4.47 log(10) TCID(50)/30 microl; n=139). The zygotes were then cultured under mineral oil in an atmosphere of 88% N(2), 7% O(2) and 5% CO(2) at 39 degrees C. The morphologic appearance of the embryos was assessed 48 h after the commencement of culture, and then every 48 h up to days 7-8 after insemination. The 22% (31/139) and 3.6% (5/139) of the presumptive zygotes developed to the morula or blastocyst stage in the control and the bovine pestivirus inoculated groups, respectively (P<0.001). This study demonstrates that bovine pestivirus has a significant detrimental effect on in vitro fertilization and early in vitro embryo development.

The effect of bovine pestivirus infection on the superovulatory response of Friesian heifers

The pathogenesis of reproductive loss associated with bovine pestivirus infection during the preovulatory period was investigated using superovulated heifers. Twenty-five Friesian heifers were selected and randomly assigned to either a control group (n = 12) which did not become infected or to a treatment group (n = 13) which became infected following intranasal instillation of 2 ml of serum inoculum containing 5.5 log(10) TCID(50)/ml non-cytopathic virus, 9 d prior to artificial insemination (AI). Transrectal ultrasonography was used to monitor follicular development and ovulation during the superovulatory period. Animals were superovulated using a standard protocol of twice-daily injections of FSH-P and then were inseminated twice commencing 12 h after the onset of estrus. The intensity of expression of estrus was higher in the control heifers than in the pestivirus-infected heifers. Of 13 pestivirus-infected heifers, only 3 heifers displayed standing estrus compared with that in the control group, in which 10 of 12 heifers exhibited standing estrus. The mean number of ova/embryos recovered from the control group heifers was 5.75 +/-2.31, of which 4.00 +/- 0.72 were evaluated as transferable quality embryos. In comparison, heifers in the pestivirus-infected group yielded only a mean of 0.60 +/-0.34 ova/embryos, of which 0.23 +/- 0.22 were transferable quality embryos. Based on ultrasonographic examination, 24 h after the first AI 82% of the presumptive ovulatory follicles had ovulated in the control group compared with an ovulation rate of only 17% in the treated group. The results of this experiment demonstrated that bovine pestivirus infection during the preovulatory period could adversely affect ovulation, thus leading to a significant reduction in the number of palpable corpora lutea and in the number and quality of embryos recovered.

Factors associated with variation in the superovulatory response of cattle

Kafi, M., McGowan, M.R., 1997. Factors associated with variation in the superovulatory response of cattle. Anim. Reprod. Sci. Variability in the superovulatory response of cattle is still one of the major limiting factors in extensive usage of embryo transfer technology. A variety of approaches including recent attempts to eliminate the suppressive effect of the dominant follicle have been used to reduce the unpredictability of the superovulatory response of cattle. The development of techniques such as transrectal ultrasonography, have enabled a re-evaluation of ovarian dynamics during superovulation of cattle. In addition, advances in reproductive hormone assays have increased knowledge of the mechanisms controlling follicular development, ovulation and corpus luteum function. This review focuses on the current understanding of factors affecting the superovulatory response of cattle. Also, abnormalities of ovulation and endocrine disorders that may occur during superovulation are reviewed.

Relationships among calving season, heat load, energy balance and postpartum ovulation of dairy cows in a subtropical environment

The study was designed to examine the relationships among calving season, energy balance, temperature humidity index (THI), and postpartum ovulation in high producing cows in a subtropical environment. Holstein cows calving in a feedlot dairy in southeast Queensland during winter (n = 23) and summer (n = 21) were monitored during the first 9 weeks of lactation. Cows were weighed and blood samples collected twice weekly: plasma progesterone, plasma metabolites related to energy and mineral balance, and haematological measurements were performed. Milk production was measured, body condition score was estimated, and trans-rectal ultrasound examinations of the ovaries were each undertaken once a week. The interval between calving and first ovulation was significantly longer in cows calving in summer (22.8 vs. 17.6 days, P < 0.05). Interval from calving to the first postpartum ovulation (FOVL) was inversely related to the mean plasma glucose concentration for the first 9 weeks after calving (GLU): FOVL = 80.0-17.9GLU, (R2 = 0.25, P < 0.001). Plasma progesterone concentration during the life of the second corpus luteum after calving was negatively correlated with THI during the first 2 weeks after calving (r = 0.55, P < 0.001). Plasma glucose concentration (GLU) was negatively correlated with milk yield (MYD) and rectal temperature (RT), and positively correlated with plasma calcium concentration (Ca) according to the following regression equation. GLU = 33.1 - 0.02MYD + 0.91Ca - 0.48RT, (R2 = 0.58, P = 0.0001).