Comparing the effectiveness of CBT and low-frequency rTMS in reducing symptom severity and depression and improving working memory in adults with OCD: a clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and low-frequency (LF) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in reducing symptom severity and depression and improving working memory in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

METHODS

This is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 24 adults with OCD, randomly assigned into two groups of CBT (n = 12, received CBT with exposure and response prevention (ERP) individually at 20 sessions) and rTMS (n = 12, received LF (1-Hz) rTMS over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at 10 sessions). They completed the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and two N-Back tasks before, immediately, and 1 month after interventions.

RESULTS

Results showed a significant difference between the two methods in reducing the severity of OCD symptoms (p < 0.05) and depression (p = 0.002) immediately after interventions where the CBT with ERP was more effective, but no significant difference was found in terms of working memory (p > 0.05). No significant difference was found between groups in any study variables 1 month after interventions.

CONCLUSION

Individual CBT with ERP is superior to LF rTMS for reducing the severity of symptoms and depression in OCD patients. However, there is no difference between them in improving working memory.

Simultaneous application of salicylic acid and silicon in aerial parts of Scrophularia striata L. in response to drought stress

Plants respond to water shortage by regulating biochemical pathways which result in the biosynthesis of osmotic compounds. Active metabolites and compatible osmolytes control the inhibition of oxygen free radicals and dehydration. The physiological response of scrophularia striata to drought stress, a factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) experiment was conducted in three replication. Drought stress was induced at two levels (100% and 50% field capacity), and salicylic acid (SA) and silicon (Si) and Ecotype were also used at two levels of (0 and 100 PPM), (0 and 1 g/L) and (Ilam and Abdanan) respectively. Data analysis results indicated that the H2O2 content, Malondialdehyde (MDA), glycine betaine (GB) and the activity of the enzyme glutathione reductase (GR; EC 1.6.4.2) of aerial parts increased during the entire stress exposure period. Although the SA + Si + stress + ecotype interaction increased the content of soluble carbohydrate s and the GR activity in aerial parts of Ilam and Abdanan ecotypes, this interaction led to a decrease in MDA, H2O2 in Ilam ecotypes. The interaction between the stress + SA + Si + ecotype led to an increase in the phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL; EC 4.3.1.5) activity in the Abdanan ecotype, but no important difference was observed. As compared to the control treatment, the content of Polyphenol increased, The interaction between ecotype + stress + Si caused to increased the of proline content in the Abadanan ecotype. The results showed that the increase in antioxidant defense and compatible osmolytes due to the use of SA and Si can improve the drought tolerance in S.striata.

Evaluating the effect of gamma rays on Zamiifolia (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) plant in vitro and genetic diversity of the resulting genotypes using the ISSR marker

Zamiifolia (Zamioculcas sp.) is a perennial plant in the Araceae family and one of the new apartment plants in the world. In this study, in order to increase the effectiveness of the breeding program, tissue culture technique and explants of leaf parts were used. The results indicated that 2,4-D (1 mg/l) and BA (2 mg/l) hormones affected positively and significantly callus formation and simultaneous application of NAA and BA (both in 0.5 mg/l) caused the best results regarding seedling production and number, leaves, complete tubers, and root in tissue culture of Zaamifolia. In the study, three cultivars of Zamiifolia (green, black and Dutch) and 12 genotypes resulted from callus formation stage, irradiated with different gamma rays (0 to 175 Gy, with LD₅₀ as 68 Gy) were selected and the presence of genetic diversity was investigated using 22 ISSR primers. Applying ISSR marker showed that the highest amount of PIC values related to the F19(0.47) and F20(0.38) primers, which persuasively isolated the studied genotypes. Moreover, the highest efficiency was detected for AK66 marker based on the MI parameter. The PCA and clustering categorization via UPGMA methodology based on molecular information and Dice index, differentiated the genotypes into 6 groups. Genotypes 1(callus), 2(100 Gy) and 3(cultivar from Holland) created separated groups. The 4th group included 6(callus), 8(0 Gy), 9(75 Gy), 11(90 Gy), 12(100 Gy) and 13(120 Gy) genotypes appearing as the largest group. The 5th group included 7(160 Gy), 10(80 Gy), 14(140 Gy) and 15(Zanziber gem black) genotypes. The last group included 4(mather plant) and 5(callus) genotypes. In this context, genotypes 1, 5, and 6 had probably somaclonal variation. Moreover, genotypes that received doses of 100 and 120 Gy, had a medium diversity. There is a high possibility of introducing a cultivar with a low dose and high genetic diversity in the whole group. Genotype 7 in this classification, received the highest dose of 160 Gy. In this population, the Dutch variety, was used as a new variety. As a result, the ISSR marker could correctly group the genotypes. This is an interesting finding, and it could be hypothesized that the ISSR marker could correctly differentiate Zaamifolia genotypes and probably other ornamental plants under the effect of gamma rays mutagenesis in order to achieve novel variants.

Candidate genes for anthocyanin pigmentation in rice stem revealed by GWAS and whole-genome resequencing

Anthocyanin pigment as a phenolic secondary metabolite is accumulated in areal organs of some rice cultivars. Despite several research attempts, the majority of genomic regions and candidate genes for purple-colored stem (Ps) resulting from anthocyanin pigmentation of rice leaf sheath have not been identified. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) and whole-genome resequencing (WGR) analysis was applied for genetic dissection of anthocyanin pigmentation of rice stem. Using GWAS, the genomic regions (on chromosomes 2, 4, and 6) tagged to eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified to be significantly associated with purple stem, and in the vicinity of GWAS signals, 19 genes were highlighted as putative candidate genes. To narrow down the genomic regions more highly associated to the trait, a WGR study on recombinant inbred lines (RIL) with opposite phenotypes was conducted. After defining the DNA variation between reference genome, maternal parent and the two sister lines, a narrow genomic region on the short arm of chromosome 6 (4.7-6.2 Mbp interval) was identified to be highly associated with anthocyanin pigmentation of rice stem. In the interval, a few candidate genes with probable role in anthocyanin biosynthesis and accumulation were identified, which included five structural genes involved in the known pathways [one chalcone isomerase (CHI), two glycosyl transferases, and two UDP-flavonoid-3-O-glucosyl (UFGT) transferases] and two transcription factors [one basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH)- and one myeloblastosis (MYB)-coding genes]. The identified candidate genes can be used in breeding programs of rice or other Gramineae species for anthocyanin accumulation in areal organs.

Recombinant production of bovine Lactoferrin-derived antimicrobial peptide in tobacco hairy roots expression system

LFchimera is a chimerical peptide containing Lactoferricin and Lactoferrampin antimicrobial peptides of bovine lactoferrin, and it has stronger bactericidal activity. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) like LFchimera have great potential as an alternative candidate for conventional antibiotics. Plant hairy roots provide suitable platform for fast, easy and cost-effective production of various recombinant proteins. The aim of this study was to express recombinant LFchimera in Nicotiana tabacum hairy roots and investigate its antimicrobial activity. The integration and expression of the transgene in hairy roots were confirmed by PCR and RT-PCR, respectively. LFchimera levels were quantified by ELISA and the presence of LFchimera was verified by SDS-PAGE analysis of root extracts. Biological activity of the plant derived LFchimera was confirmed by investigating the antimicrobial activity of total solution protein against Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739). Hairy root biomass reached to 4.6 g and LFchimera accumulate about 4.8 μg/g fresh weight in Erlenmeyer flasks.

Effect of nitrogen sources on some morphological characteristics of in vitro stevia rebaudiana Bertoni

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni belongs to Asteraceae family that leaves 200-300 times sweeter than sugar. Low seed fertility is one of the most important problems in Stevia production. So, Plant tissue culture is an efficient method for mass propagation of Stevia. In this research, we studied the effect of various concentrations of nitrogen on some morphological traits of stevia under in vitro conditions. We used axillary nodes as explants and they were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing inorganic nitrogen sources i.e. NH4NO3(0, 825 and 1650 mg/l), KNO3(0, 950 and 1900 mg/l) were observed. The cultures were kept for 4 weeks at a temperature of 25±2°C with a photoperiod of 16/8 hour low light/dark each day. Maximum shoot length (89.33 mm), dry weight of plants (0.10 mg) and leaf fresh weight (0.42 mg) was observed on MS medium with 1650 mg/l NH4NO3 and 950 mg/l KNO3. Minimum shoot length (6.13 mm), root length (6.60 mm), leaf number (4.26), leaf dry weight (0.01 mg), leaf fresh weight (0.05 mg), total dry and fresh weight (0.02 and 0.15 mg) and growth rate was observed on a MS medium without nitrogen sources. Moreover, presence of nitrogen sources increases both shooting and rooting in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni.

VRS2 regulates hormone-mediated inflorescence patterning in barley

Plant architecture has clear agronomic and economic implications for crops such as wheat and barley, as it is a critical factor for determining grain yield. Despite this, only limited molecular information is available about how grain-bearing inflorescences, called spikes, are formed and maintain their regular, distichous pattern. Here we elucidate the molecular and hormonal role of Six-rowed spike 2 (Vrs2), which encodes a SHORT INTERNODES (SHI) transcriptional regulator during barley inflorescence and shoot development. We show that Vrs2 is specifically involved in floral organ patterning and phase duration by maintaining hormonal homeostasis and gradients during normal spike development and similarly influences plant stature traits. Furthermore, we establish a link between the SHI protein family and sucrose metabolism during organ growth and development that may have implications for deeper molecular insights into inflorescence and plant architecture in crops.

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist mediates toll-like receptor 3-induced inhibition of trophoblast adhesion to endometrial cells in vitro

STUDY QUESTION

Is interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) involved in the toll-like receptor 3 (TLR 3)-induced inhibition of trophoblast cells' adhesion to endometrial cells in vitro?

SUMMARY ANSWER

IL-1RA mediates the TLR 3-induced inhibition of trophoblast cells' adhesion to endometrial cells in vitro.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

It is well documented that endometrial TLR 3 activation leads to impairment of trophoblast binding to endometrial cells in vitro. IL-1RA is known as an anti-implantation factor, as its injection significantly reduced implantation rates in mice by an effect on endometrial receptivity.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Poly I:C was used as a TLR3 specific ligand and endometrial cells were either treated or not with Poly I:C (treated versus control) in vitro. IL-1RA was applied to block IL-1 signal transduction. IL-1RA was knocked down by Accell Human IL1RN siRNA. Flagellin was used to stimulate TLR 5. SP600125 (JNK) was applied to inhibit the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway. BAY11 -7082 was used to inhibit the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. The experiments were performed in three replicates on three separate days.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

An in vitro assay was developed using RL95-2 (an endometrial cell line) and JAr (a trophoblast cell line) cells. Initially, the production of IL-1RA in RL95-2 cells in response to TLR 3 activation was measured. To determine whether the TLR 3-induced inhibition of trophoblast binding was mediated through IL-1RA: (i) we evaluated the effect of IL-1RA on the attachment of trophoblast cells to endometrial cells; (ii) we knocked down TLR3-induced IL-1RA gene expression by IL-1RA Small interfering RNA (siRNA) and evaluated trophoblast attachment to endometrial cells. Finally, to clarify through which pathway TLR 3-induced inhibition of trophoblast binding occurs: (i) activation of NF-κB and MAPK was detected by transfecting the cells with secreted placental alkaline phosphatase reporter plasmids bearing promoter sequences for each transcription factor; (ii) the inhibitors for NF-κB and MAPK were used to block signaling; (iii) it was then investigated whether addition of these inhibitors could restore the TLR 3-induced impairment of trophoblast attachment to the endometrial cells.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Our results showed that addition of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) to RL95-2 cells significantly increased the production of IL-1RA (P < 0.05). Addition of human recombinant IL-1RA to RL95-2 cells remarkably decreased the adhesion rate of trophoblast cells to endometrial cells (P < 0.05). In addition, suppression of TLR3-induced IL-1RA gene expression in RL95-2 cells significantly restored trophoblast cells attachment to endometrial cells in the presence of Poly I:C (P < 0.05). Only TLR3 and not TLR5 induced MAPK activation (P < 0.05). TLR3 ligation did not affect NF-κB activation. Of NF-kB and MAPK inhibitors, only MAPK's inhibitor could achieve restoration of spheroid adhesion to endometrial cells (P < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

This study has been only done in vitro. Future in vivo studies will confirm our data.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

The findings of this study have a potential clinical application in introducing IL-1RA as one of the diagnostic infertility markers in the endometrium, which can affect the process of embryo adhesion at the time of implantation. Moreover, based on the novel data obtained in the current study, blocking and regulating the MAPK pathway by its inhibitors can be used as a new strategy to prevent and treat virus-induced infertility cases in ART techniques.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST

This study was partially funded by a Marie Curie IIF-253948 grant to I.C. and was partially funded by the author's institutions. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

Heat shock protein A8 stabilizes the bull sperm plasma membrane during cryopreservation: Effects of breed, protein concentration, and mode of use

Heat shock protein A8 (HSPA8) is a highly conserved member of the Hsp70 family, which is expressed in oviductal cells, translocated into oviductal fluid, and becomes attached to the sperm surface during sperm transport. Previous research has shown that HSPA8 supports mammalian sperm viability during in vitro incubation at both 5 °C and body temperature. The present series of experiments was designed to explore the possibility that bovine recombinant HSPA8 might therefore protect bull spermatozoa during cryopreservation through its beneficial effects on the sperm plasma membrane. Soy-based cryopreservation media were used in these experiments. The effects of HSPA8 addition before freezing were examined at concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 6.4 μg/mL, whereas the effects of postthaw HSPA8 addition were tested between 0.2 and 12.8 μg/mL. When bull spermatozoa (from beef and dairy breeds) were frozen in the presence of HSPA8, beneficial but complex effects on postthaw viability were observed. Low HSPA8 concentrations (0.2 and 0.4 μg/mL) resulted in significantly reduced postthaw sperm viability, but concentrations above 0.8 μg/mL improved plasma membrane integrity. If HSPA8 was added to spermatozoa after thawing, outcomes were also biphasic and beneficial effects on viability were only seen if the HSPA8 concentration exceeded 3.2 μg/mL. Beneficial effects were significantly more apparent with beef rather than dairy breeds. When HSPA8 was used in combination with cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin, spermatozoa from the beef breeds showed significantly lower apoptotic effects. This was not observed with the dairy breeds.

An introduction to epigenetics as the link between genotype and environment: a personal view

Lamarck was one of the first scientists who attempted to explain evolution, and he is especially well known for formulating the concept that acquired characteristics can be transmitted to future generations and may therefore steer evolution. Although Lamarckism fell out of favour soon after the publication of Darwin's work on natural selection and evolution, the concept of transmission of acquired characteristics has recently gained renewed attention and has led to some rethinking of the standard evolutionary model. Epigenetics, or the study of heritable (mitotically and/or meiotically) changes in gene activity that are not brought about by changes in the DNA sequence, can explain some types of ill health in offspring, which have been exposed to stressors during early development, when DNA is most susceptible to such epigenetic influences. In this review, we explain briefly the history of epigenetics and we propose some examples of epigenetic and transgenerational effects demonstrated in humans and animals. Growing evidence is available that the health and phenotype of a given individual is already shaped shortly before and after the time of conception. Some evidence suggests that epigenetic markings, which have been established around conception, can also be transmitted to future generations. This knowledge can possibly be used to revolutionize animal breeding and to increase human and animal health worldwide.

Activation of Toll-like receptor 3 reduces actin polymerization and adhesion molecule expression in endometrial cells, a potential mechanism for viral-induced implantation failure

STUDY QUESTION

Does activation of endometrial Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR 3) affect cell receptivity to trophoblast adhesion?

SUMMARY ANSWER

TLR 3 activation in vitro reduces the attachment of trophoblast cells to endometrial cells by altering the cell cytoskeleton and reducing the expression of adhesion molecules in human endometrial cells.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

It is well documented that the presence of an infection at the time of implantation can lead to implantation failure. The female reproductive tract recognizes invading micro-organisms through the innate pathogen recognition receptors such as the TLRs.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Poly I:C was used as a TLR 3-specific ligand and endometrial cells were either treated or not with Poly I:C (treated versus control) in vitro. The experiments were performed in three replicates on three separate days.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

An in vitro assay was developed using RL95-2 (a human endometrial cell line) and JAr (a human trophoblast cell line) cells. Initially, the percentage of attached JAr spheroids to RL95-2 was measured in response to TLR 3 activation. Next, actin polymerization in RL95-2 cells was assessed in response to TLR 2/6, 3 and 5 activation. Phalloidin was used to assess the mean fluorescence intensity of F-actin by flow cytometry or confocal microscopy. Secondly, the influence of TLR 2/6, 3 and 5 activation on the expression of cluster of differentiation 98 (CD98) and β3 integrin was determined. To further understand through which pathways the TLR 3-induced alterations occur, inhibitors were applied for Toll/interleukin-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor inducing interferon-beta (TRIF), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and nuclear factor pathways.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

We observed that stimulation of TLR 3 in endometrial cells with different concentrations of Poly I:C led to a reduction in the percentage of trophoblasts attached to the endometrial cells in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). This decrease was consistent in the Poly I:C treated group regardless of the co-incubation time (P < 0.05). In addition, our results demonstrated that actin polymerization and CD98 expression significantly decreased only in response to TLR 3 activation (P < 0.05). Activation of endometrial cells with TLR 2/6, 3 and 5 significantly reduced β3 integrin expression (P < 0.05). These alterations were shown to work via MYD88-MAPK pathways (P < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

This study has been performed in vitro. Future in vivo studies will be required in order to confirm our data.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This is a novel discovery which extends our current knowledge concerning diagnosis and treatment of viral-induced infertility cases.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

This research was supported by the COST Action FA1201 (GEMINI) by granting a Short Term Scientific Mission and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III by granting Grant PI11/01645. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.

122 SEX-SPECIFIC EFFECTS OF PARENTAL DIET DURING PREGNANCY ON EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT IN THE LONG SNOUT SEAHORSE (HIPPOCAMPUS REIDI; GINSBURG, 1933)

As in mammals, seahorse embryos develop internally but, unlike in mammals, this process occurs within a paternal structure (the brood pouch). Functionally, the brood pouch supports developing embryos through placenta-like interactions, but as egg quality is determined by the female's diet, the seahorse system offers opportunities to study the effect of the male's diet on embryo development while varying the female's diet independently. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that development of seahorse embryos is affected differentially by independent manipulation of the male and female parental diets. Adult males and females were fed separately with either wild-caught crustaceans (Male-W or Female-W, respectively) or commercial aquarium diet (Male-C or Female-C, respectively) for 1 month before conception and during the subsequent pregnancy (approximately 15 days). Dietary unsaturated fatty acid content (18:3n-3) and (20:4n-6) in the W diet was approximately double that in the C diet. In total, 5231 first-brood offspring were obtained from 4 treatment groups formed from (1) Male-W × Female-W; (2) Male-C × Female-W; (3) Male-W × Female-C; and (4) Male-C × Female-C. Each treatment was replicated with 4 couples. Newborns (10 from each brood) were weighed and dimensions measured. Fifteen-day postnatal survival rates were determined from 40 offspring/couple (N at Day 0 = 160/treatment) and fatty acid profiles were evaluated. Data were analysed by nested analyses of covariance (ANCOVA); replicates were nested within treatments and individual offspring measurements were nested within replicates (male and female parental sizes were used as covariates). Offspring produced by the Male-C × Female-W were ~10% taller (both as standard length and tail length; P < 0.05) than those produced by Male-W × Female-W couples but their 15-day survival was poorer (12.9% v. 39%; χ2 = 39.19, 1 DF; P < 0.001). Fifteen-day survival of the other groups was 0% in both cases. When both male and female parents were fed the commercial diet, their offspring were considerably smaller than those from all the other treatments (P < 0.05). The offspring produced by Male-W × Female-C couples showed distortion of the snout:head length ratio, a phenotypic feature that was highly consistent in the Male-W × Female-W treatment group. Fatty acid profiles of the offspring showed significant dependence on the preconception dietary treatment; 20:4n-6 and 22:6n-3 contents were significantly lower in Male-C × Female-C than in Male-W × Female-C (P < 0.01) offspring, showing that the male's pouch could compensate for the poorer quality of lipids derived directly from eggs. These results support the hypothesis that diet received during the preconception period and pregnancy by the males and females differentially affects embryonic growth and fatty acid content, and suggest that seahorses are a suitable model species for understanding the effects of parental diet on offspring health. Supported by the EU FP7/2007–2013 AquaExcel network (grant agreement No. 262336) and the COST Action (FA1201) (Epigenetics and Periconception Environment).

Effect of a pre-freezing treatment with cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrins on boar sperm longevity, capacitation dynamics, ability to adhere to porcine oviductal epithelial cells in vitro and DNA fragmentation dynamics

The aim of this work was to examine how a pre-freezing treatment with cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrins (CLC) affects boar sperm longevity, capacitation dynamics, ability to bind to a porcine telomerase-immortalised oviductal epithelial cell line (TERT-OPEC) in vitro and DNA integrity dynamics after freeze–thawing. Although the samples treated with CLC exhibited lower sperm quality than the control samples (P < 0.05) immediately after thawing, these differences disappeared (P > 0.05) after long-term incubation (26 h at 37 or 16°C). Additionally, the CLC-treated spermatozoa underwent similar capacitation and DNA fragmentation dynamics as the control spermatozoa (P > 0.05). However, CLC-treated spermatozoa were better able to bind to TERT-OPEC in vitro (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, the pre-freezing treatment of boar spermatozoa with CLC enhanced the ability of the spermatozoa to bind to TERT-OPEC in vitro, which could have an effect on the establishment of the sperm reservoir in the ampullary­–isthmic junction in vivo. Additionally, frozen–thawed spermatozoa can be stored at 16°C for at least 6 h without a significant observable decline in sperm quality, which could be beneficial for the transport of thawed diluted doses of spermatozoa from the laboratory to the farm.

The oviducal protein, heat-shock 70-kDa protein 8, improves the long-term survival of ram spermatozoa during storage at 17°C in a commercial extender

Poor fertility rates are often observed when fresh ram semen stored in conventional extenders is used for cervical artificial insemination (AI). Heat-shock 70-kDa protein 8 (HSPA8), found within the oviduct, prolongs boar, ram and bull sperm survival at body temperatures in vitro. Here, we aimed to determine whether supplementing extenders (INRA-96 and RSD-1) with HSPA8 (4 µg mL⁻¹) would improve their performance in maintaining freshly collected ram sperm viability and sperm nuclear DNA integrity during storage over 48 h at 17°C. Sperm function was assessed at 1, 6, 24 and 48h and this experiment was repeated using 25 × 10⁶ and 800 × 10⁶ spermatozoa mL⁻¹. INRA96 supplemented with HSPA8 maintained sperm viability significantly better than INRA96 alone at both sperm concentrations. However, sperm nuclear DNA fragmentation (DF) increased significantly during storage using the higher sperm concentration, irrespective of the extender and the protein treatment used. Increasing levels of sperm nuclear DF over time could explain why poor fertility rates are often observed following cervical AI using stored ram semen. However, further research is required to ascertain whether supplementing the commercially available INRA96 extender with HSPA8 will improve fertility rates following cervical AI using stored ram semen.

Effect of bonding application time on the microleakage of Class V sandwich restorations

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of bonding application time on the microleakage of Class V sandwich restorations.

METHODS

Eighty non-carious third molars were randomly divided into 16 groups. Two Class V cavities were prepared on the buccal and lingual surfaces of teeth. Three groups were restored with Fuji II GIC and treated with a total-etch bonding system (Stea/SDI) immediately after insertion, at 7 minutes and 15 minutes after mixing the glass ionomer cements (GICs). Another three groups were restored with Riva Self Cure GIC and treated with the total-etch system identically. The other six groups were subjected to self-etching bonding (Frog/SDI) after GIC placement in an identical procedure. The remaining groups were made using light cure GICs (Fuji II or Riva Light Cure) in conjunction with the total-etch or self-etching systems. Cavities were then restored with composite (Valux plus, 3M/ESPE). Samples were subsequently immersed in 2% methylene blue solution for 48 hours and observed under a stereomicroscope after sectioning. Four-scale grading was used to assess microleakage in occlusal and gingival walls. Data were analysed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests.

RESULTS

The self-etching bonding system exhibited more microleakage in occlusal margins regardless of time. Over time, microleakage significantly decreased in gingival margins in all self-cure groups except for Riva Self Cure treated with the total-etch system (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Bonding application time had no effect on the microleakage of occlusal margins. However, maturation of GICs induced a decreased microleakage in gingival margins.

Using computational modeling to investigate sperm navigation and behavior in the female reproductive tract

The processes by which individual sperm cells navigate the length and complexity of the female reproductive tract and then reach and fertilize the oocyte is fascinating. Numerous complex processes potentially influence the transport of spermatozoa within the tract, resulting in a regulated supply of spermatozoa to the oocytes at the site of fertilization. Despite significant differences between species, breeds, and individuals, these processes converge to ensure that a sufficient number of high quality spermatozoa reach the oocytes, resulting in successful fertilization without a significant risk of polyspermy. Different factors, such as the physical complexity of the oviductal environment, changing swimming patterns, capacitation, chemotactic and thermotactic attraction, attachment and detachment from the oviductal epithelium, interactions with local oviductal secretions, individual variations in spermatozoa and subpopulations, peristaltic contractions, and the movement of fluid have all been theorized to influence the transport of spermatozoa to the site of fertilization. However, the predominance of each factor is not fully understood. Computational modeling provides a useful method for combining knowledge about the individual processes in complex systems to help understand the relative significance of each factor. The process of constructing and validating an agent-based computational model of sperm movement and transport within the oviductal environment is described in this report. Spermatozoa are modeled as individual cells with a set of behavioral rules defining how they interact with their local environment and regulate their internal state. The inclusion or potential exclusion of each factor is discussed, along with problems identifying parameters and defining behavioral rules from available literature. Finally, the benefits and limitations of the model are described.

Synthesis and antimicrobial effects of silver nanoparticles produced by chemical reduction method

BACKGROUND AND THE PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The most prominent nanoparticles for medical uses are nanosilver particles which are famous for their high anti-microbial activity. Silver ion has been known as a metal ion that exhibit anti-mold, anti-microbial and anti-algal properties for a long time. In particular, it is widely used as silver nitrate aqueous solution which has disinfecting and sterilizing actions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity as well as physical properties of the silver nanoparticles prepared by chemical reduction method.

METHODS

Silver nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by reduction of silver nitrate in the presence of a reducing agent and also poly [N-vinylpyrolidone] (PVP) as a stabilizer. Two kinds of NPs were synthesized by ethylene glycol (EG) and glucose as reducing agent. The nanostructure and particle size of silver NPs were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser particle analyzer (LPA). The formations of the silver NPs were monitored using ultraviolet- visible spectroscopy. The anti-bacterial activity of silver NPs were assessed by determination of their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) against the Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis) as well as Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The silver nanoparticles were spherical with particle size between 10 to 250 nm. Analysis of the theoretical (Mie light scattering theory) and experimental results showed that the silver NPs in colloidal solution had a diameter of approximately 50 nm. Both colloidal silver NPs showed high anti-bacterial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Glucose nanosilver colloids showed a shorter killing time against most of the tested bacteria which could be due to their nanostructures and uniform size distribution patterns.

Effects of oviductal proteins, including heat shock 70 kDa protein 8, on survival of ram spermatozoa over 48 h in vitro

Following insemination, ram spermatozoa are transported to the isthmus region of the oviduct where they bind to the oviductal epithelial cells (OEC), remaining viable for several hours. The aim of the present study was to begin to decipher which component(s) of the ewe oviduct actively participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. A series of experiments was conducted to investigate whether: (1) soluble OEC apical plasma membrane proteins (sAPM) isolated from ewes prolong survival of ram spermatozoa over an extended (48 h) coincubation period at 39 degrees C; (2) a recombinant form of one of these oviductal proteins, namely heat shock 70 kDa protein 8 (HSPA8), prolongs survival of ram spermatozoa; and (3) pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody compromises the ability of sAPM to prolong the survival of ram spermatozoa. Both sAPM and recombinant HSPA8 had a beneficial effect on the viability of ram spermatozoa during coincubation, although both these effects were dose dependent. In contrast, pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody significantly negated the ability of sAPM to maintain the viability of ram spermatozoa. These findings suggest that HSPA8 is an active component of the ewe oviduct that participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. This is a potentially valuable observation given that there is a great deal of room for improving existing diluents for storing fresh ram semen.

Temporal dynamics of ram sperm binding and survival during 48-h coculture with oviducal epithelial cells

Following insemination, ram spermatozoa bind to oviducal epithelial cells (OEC) in vivo and remain viable for several hours before fertilisation. In the present study, we investigated whether OEC monolayers reproduce this effect in vitro, performing an analysis of ram sperm binding and survival over an extended (48 h) period at 39°C. We wanted to determine whether the reproductive cycle phase and/or oviducal region would influence ram sperm binding and survival in coculture with OEC and whether reproductive and non-reproductive epithelial cells bound and maintained the viability of ram spermatozoa equivalently. Oviducts were separated into groups based on their ovarian state (follicular or luteal) and then divided into two parts (isthmus and ampulla) for OEC isolation. Sheep kidney epithelial cells (Madin-Darby ovine kidney; MDOK) were purchased commercially. Reproductive cycle phase, but not oviducal region, affected sperm binding to OEC. Although more spermatozoa bound to luteal OEC than to follicular OEC at 1 h, at 24 h follicular OEC had bound more spermatozoa than luteal OEC. Generally, spermatozoa that were bound to OEC and MDOK had enhanced viability at each of the time points investigated (1, 6, 24 and 48 h), but the viability of the OEC-bound spermatozoa was greater than that of the MDOK-bound spermatozoa at 48 h. In conclusion, ram sperm–epithelial cell interactions are temporal, dynamic and depend on the origin of the epithelial cells.

Influence of thawing method on motility, plasma membrane integrity and morphology of frozen-thawed stallion spermatozoa

Different thawing methods are used for stallion semen, however, it is unclear which method is the optimal one. To determine if the thawing temperature has an effect on semen quality, we compared 2 thawing temperatures, 75 degrees C and 37 degrees C. The following parameters were used to measure sperm quality: sperm motility, sperm viability, plasma membrane integrity and sperm morphology. Twenty-three ejaculates from 10 Dutch Warmblood stallions were thawed either at 37 degrees C for 30 sec or at 75 degrees C for 7 sec. Sperm motility was evaluated by a Hamilton Thorn Motility Analyser. Plasma membrane integrity and sperm viability were evaluated by using a live/dead fluorescein stain containing a calcein AM probe and ethidium homodimer-1 probe. The eosinaniline blue staining method was used to evaluate the percentage of live and dead cells, as well as sperm morphology. There was no significant difference (P = 0.84) between sperm motility after thawing at 37 degrees C and 75 degrees C. There was also no significant difference (P = 0.053) between the percentage of live spermatozoa using the calcein AM/ethidium homodimer stain after thawing at 37 degrees C and 75 degrees C. There was, however, a significant difference (P = 0.032) between the percentage of live spermatozoa using the eosin-aniline blue stain after thawing at 37 degrees C compared with that at 75 degrees C. In conclusion, our laboratory results indicated that stud farms using frozen semen should thaw the straws at 37 degrees C instead of 75 degrees C. The lower temperature is easier to work with, as thawing at the higher temperature requires special equipment and has to be timed very carefully to avoid damage to the spermatozoa.

Menstrual cycle-dependent changes of Toll-like receptors in endometrium

BACKGROUND

Rapid innate immune defences against infection usually involve the recognition of invading pathogens by specific pattern recognition receptors recently attributed to the family of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Reports from our laboratory and others have demonstrated the existence of TLRs 1-6 in the female reproductive tract. However, little has been done to identify TLRs 7-10 in the female reproductive tract, particularly in the uterus. Also little information exists regarding variation in TLRs in the female reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle.

METHOD

The distribution of TLR7-10 protein was detected by immunostaining in timed endometrial biopsies from normal women. RT-PCR was used to show the existence of TLR1-10 genes in endometrial tissue and real-time PCR analysis to investigate the relative expression of these genes during the menstrual cycle in normal human endometrium.

RESULTS

TLR7-10 proteins were detected in endometrial epithelium and stroma. TLR1-10 genes were expressed in human endometrial tissue, and the mean relative expression of TLR2-6, 9 and 10 genes was significantly higher during the secretory phase compared with other phases of the menstrual cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

TLR7-10 localization is not limited to endometrial epithelium but is also present in the stroma of the endometrial tissue. Endometrial TLR2-6, 9 and 10 genes are cyclically expressed during the menstrual cycle.

Validation of an experimental strategy for studying surface-exposed proteins involved in porcine sperm-oviduct contact interactions

Previous experiments have shown that boar sperm survival in vitro is enhanced when co-incubated with a solubilised protein extract of porcine oviducal apical plasma membrane proteins. Here, we examine the hypothesis that the effects are mediated by direct oviduct-sperm contact and use in situ biotinylation of the oviducal epithelial surface to trace the surface-exposed biotinylated proteins through purification and solubilisation steps. We have also examined the effectiveness of mechanical scraping as a method of recovering oviducal epithelial proteins. We show that a subset of proteins originally exposed at the oviducal surface eventually bind to spermatozoa during incubation in vitro, but also show that a different protein subset is implicated if the sperm incubation is performed with proteins that had been biotinylated after (ex situ) extraction from the oviduct. Apical plasma membrane fractions biotinylated after purification contained many more biotinylated protein bands than preparations labelled before purification and multiple protein bands were eventually found to associate with spermatozoa. Although the evidence presented here supports the hypothesis that protein(s) anchored to the oviducal epithelium bind populations of spermatozoa directly and may have a role in the enhancement of sperm viability, it also shows that the choice of investigative technique exerts a major influence on experimental outcomes.

Harnessing the biology of the oviduct for the benefit of artificial insemination

Spermatozoa fulfil a single role, namely achieving syngamy by transporting the haploid genome to their counterpart gamete, the oocyte. Simple as this may seem, it is fraught with many difficulties, especially in the face of biological processes that enable females to select spermatozoa after they have mated multiply with several males. Conversely, the female reproductive tract sequesters a privileged sperm subpopulation in the oviductal isthmus for variable periods of time, releasing them when the time is opportune for fertilisation. Recent studies of sperm transport in the female reproductive tract suggest that these phenomena involve signalling dialogues between spermatozoa and the female reproductive tract environment. Opportunities for mutual signalling are immense but have received relatively little attention. The oviduct is an organ of crucial significance in modulating sperm function and may be one of the most important sites for determining many aspects of sperm selection and competition. The oviductal environment possesses the potential for enhancing sperm survival, suppressing and activating sperm motility as required, and responds to the arrival of spermatozoa by producing novel proteins. While the biological nature of the sperm-oviduct dialogue is interesting for its own sake, the mechanisms that govern these processes offer opportunities for the improvement of artificial insemination procedures. If oviductal proteins enhance sperm survival, they offer opportunities for the development of long-life semen diluents. Conversely, if we understood the basis of sperm selection we may be able to concentrate on identifying and using only the best sperm subpopulations for improved animal breeding efficiency.

Characterization of Toll-like receptors in the female reproductive tract in humans

BACKGROUND

Rapid innate immune defences against infection involve the recognition of invading pathogens by specific pattern recognition receptors recently attributed to the family of Toll-like receptors (TLR). Little is known about the in vivo protein expression or distribution of TLR in the female reproductive tract in humans. It is likely that TLR distribution in the female reproductive tract reflects the immunological tolerance to the commensal organisms in lower parts of the tract (vagina, ectocervix and, partially, endocervix) and the intolerance to commensal microbial flora in the upper tract (the uterus and uterine tubes).

METHODS

Using immunohistochemistry techniques, distribution of TLR1-6 was studied in surgical sections from the vagina, ecto- and endocervix, endometrium and uterine tubes, obtained from patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy for benign gynaecological conditions.

RESULTS

TLR1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 were present in the epithelia of different regions of female reproductive tract. However, TLR4 was only present in the endocervix, endometrium and uterine tubes and absent in vagina and ectocervix. In addition, a secretory form of TLR4 seems to be produced by the endocervical glands.

CONCLUSION

TLR4 may play an important role in modulation of immunological tolerance in the lower parts of the female reproductive tract, and in host defence against ascending infection.

293. Gametes alter the oviductal secretory proteome in vivo

We sought to identify altered oviductal protein secretions in response to the presence of gametes in the oviduct in vivo at the time of ovulation. Experiments were designed to compare oviductal fluid from a gamete-stimulated oviduct to a non-gamete-stimulated oviduct within the same animal. Clips were introduced at the infundibulum of both oviducts to prevent oocytes from entering the oviducts and one uterine horn was cut to prevent sperm access to that oviduct. Sows were artificially inseminated the next day with diluted boar semen. Control sows that had undergone the same surgical procedures were inseminated with diluent (no sperm). The day after insemination oviducts were removed and oviductal fluid was collected. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, isotope coded affinity tag (ICAT) technology and LC-ESI-MS/MS were used to identify and quantify proteins regulated by presence of spermatozoa in the oviduct. To identify the effect of oocyte presence in the oviduct, only one oviduct was clipped at the infundibulum. This prevented oocytes from entering that oviduct. Sows were monitored for ovulation using sonography and 24 h after ovulation oviducts were removed and oviductal fluid was analysed as described above. Results indicated that in vivo, the oviduct responded to the presence of spermatozoa and oocytes by altering its secretory proteomic profile. Our surgical interventions were not responsible for any of these alterations. Many of the identified proteins are known to be involved in oocyte maturation, maintenance of sperm viability, fertilisation, and embryonic development. Our findings suggest that the oviduct responds to gametes by providing specific molecules to sustain, regulate or enhance events preceding and during fertilisation, and early embryonic development. Furthermore, it seems a gamete recognition system is present in the oviduct. Supported by grants from the BBSRC and Sygen International PLC.

A probabilistic model for the extraction of expression levels from oligonucleotide arrays

In this work we present a probabilistic model to estimate summaries of Affymetrix GeneChip probe level data. Comparisons with two different models were made both on a publicly available dataset and on a study performed in our laboratory, showing that our model performs better for consistency of fold change.

In vitro maintenance of boar sperm viability by a soluble fraction obtained from oviductal apical plasma membrane preparations

Oviductal apical plasma membrane fractions have been successfully used to provide an in vitro model to study the role of direct membrane contact in sperm-oviduct interactions. Apical plasma membrane preparations from pig oviductal tissues show a dose-response in their ability to maintain boar sperm viability in vitro. Membrane preparations obtained from other tissues (lung and duodenum) are incapable of maintaining boar sperm viability to the same extent as oviductal tissue. The present study examined the validity of two hypotheses that arise from current knowledge of sperm-oviduct interactions, namely, that (i) apical plasma membranes prepared from ampullar regions of the oviduct are less effective than those from isthmus regions, and (ii) sperm survival is more effective in apical plasma membrane preparations derived from follicular phase oviducts than those derived from luteal phase oviducts. Both hypotheses were proved false. The nature of the active component(s) in the oviductal apical plasma membrane fractions was further investigated. Heat treatment (100 degrees C for 20 min) diminished the capacity of membranes to support boar sperm viability. Furthermore, a soluble salt-extracted fraction obtained from oviductal apical plasma membrane preparations was biologically active and supported boar sperm viability in vitro. This may indicate that the active factor(s) responsible for the maintenance of boar sperm viability is not an integral part of oviductal membranes and is peripherally bound to these membranes.