Plasma pH Research Articles

Establishment of an In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation for Melanin Binding and the Extension of the Ocular Half-Life of Small-Molecule Drugs.

A large variety of drugs bind effectively to melanin, and this binding influences their ocular pharmacokinetic and distribution profiles. We aimed to establish a correlation between in vitro melanin binding and in vivo ocular pharmacokinetics (PK). The extent of melanin binding in vitro was determined for a set of model drugs; binding kinetics and binding isotherms were generated and fitted to a mechanistic model to derive the drug-melanin binding parameters (Bmax, KD, kon, and koff). In addition, in vitro ADME properties such as cellular permeability, P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux, plasma protein binding, and octanol partition coefficients were determined. Moreover, cellular uptake was measured in the nonpigmented ARPE-19 cells and in lightly pigmented human epidermal melanocytes. Finally, in vivo ocular PK studies were performed in albino and pigmented rats using intravenous injections. Substantial drug enrichment accompanied by a very long residence time was observed in pigmented ocular tissues, which could be linked to the melanin binding determined in vitro and to the intracellular drug uptake into the pigmented cells. The resulting ocular PK profile is shown to be a consequence of the interplay of melanin binding with concurrent processes such as systemic clearance, plasma protein binding, cellular permeation, P-glycoprotein efflux, pH partitioning, and tissue binding. Understanding this interplay at a mechanistic level could help in the rational design and development of new small-molecule drug candidates with the desired PK/pharmacodynamic profile to target the back of the eye.

Changes in Physiology and Stress Responses of Pellet‐Reared Largemouth Bass Fed Live‐Forage Diets

AbstractAdvanced‐sized Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides to be used for stocking and experimentation can be efficiently reared on prepared feed in intensive culture conditions, but formulated diets containing high levels (≥20%) of dietary carbohydrates may lead to high liver and muscle lipid and high liver glycogen levels, which may affect survival and stress responses. Largemouth Bass were raised to a size of 240–344 mm TL on formulated diets and then were fed live forage (i.e., naturalization); the effects of naturalization on liver, blood, and muscle health indices and physiological stress measures were evaluated, and indices were compared with those of wild Largemouth Bass from three different reservoirs. Hepatosomatic index (HSI) decreased by week 1 of naturalization; liver glycogen decreased by week 2; liver lightness, yellowness, and steatosis decreased by week 4; and liver moisture and lipid concentration stabilized after 4 weeks. Plasma cortisol was higher by week 1 of naturalization than by week 6 and onward, and plasma pH decreased after 1 week. Muscle color showed changes by week 1 of naturalization, muscle collagen stabilized by week 4, and muscle lipids decreased more gradually compared to the liver. The magnitude of stress response in fish subjected to a 60‐s chasing stressor was unaffected by naturalization. Among populations of wild fish, many liver, blood, and muscle metrics were similar, with the exception of liver yellowness, glycogen, and HSI; muscle redness, lipids, and moisture; and the viscerosomatic index. Therefore, after rearing on a high‐carbohydrate, high‐lipid diet (i.e., 20% carbohydrates; 16% lipids), 4–6 weeks of naturalization can improve liver health, with most liver parameters being similar to those found in populations of wild fish.

Characterization of the Site-Specific Acid-Base Equilibria of 3-Nitrotyrosine.

The complete macro- and microequilibrium analyses of 3-nitrotyrosine, a biomarker of oxidative stress damage, are presented for the first time. The protonation macroconstants were determined by 1 H-NMR-pH titration, while microconstants were elucidated by a combination of deductive and NMR methods, in which properties of the methyl ester derivative as an auxiliary compound were also studied. Combination of the NMR-pH characterization of the title and auxiliary compounds and the pair-interactivity parameters of 3-iodotyrosine provided the sufficient system to evaluate all the microconstants. NMR-pH profiles, macroscopic and microscopic protonation schemes, and species-specific distribution diagrams are included. The phenolate basicity of 3-nitrotyrosine is 500 times below that of tyrosine, and it is even lower than that of 3-iodotyrosine. This phenomenon can be explained by the stronger electron withdrawing and the negative mesomeric effect of the nitro group. Based on our results, 89 % of the phenolic OH groups are deprotonated in 3-NT molecules at the pH of the blood plasma.

A Proof of Concept Study, Demonstrating Extracorporeal Carbon Dioxide Removal Using Hemodialysis with a Low Bicarbonate Dialysate.

Extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO2R) devices remove CO2 directly from blood, facilitating ultraprotective ventilation or even providing an alternative to mechanical ventilation. However, ECCO2R is not widely available, whereas dialysis is available in most intensive care units (ICUs). Prior attempts to provide ECCO2R with dialysis, by removing CO2 in the form of bicarbonate, have been plagued by metabolic acidosis. We hypothesized that bicarbonate dialysis is feasible, provided the plasma strong ion difference is maintained. We used a mathematical model to investigate the effects of bicarbonate removal on pH and CO2 in plasma, and performed in-vitro experiments to test CO2 removal using three dialysates with different bicarbonate concentrations (0, 16, and 32 mmol·L). Our modeling predicted a reduction in partial pressures of CO2 (PCO2) and increased pH with progressive lowering of plasma bicarbonate, provided strong ion difference and plasma proteins (Atot) were maintained. In our in-vitro experiments, total CO2 removal, scaled up to an adult size filter, was highest with our dialysate containing no bicarbonate, where we removed the equivalent of 94 ml·min (±3.0) of CO2. Under the same conditions, our dialysate containing a conventional bicarbonate concentration (32 mmol·L) only removed 5 ml·min (±4; p < 0.001). As predicted, pH increased following bicarbonate removal. Our data show that dialysis using low bicarbonate dialysates is feasible and results in a reduction in plasma PCO2. When scaled up, to estimate equivalent CO2 removal with an adult dialysis circuit, the amount removed competes with existing low-flow ECCO2R devices.

Effects of seminal plasma ionic content, pH and osmolality on spermatozoa motility in bester (Female Huso huso × Male Acipenser ruthenus) sturgeon

The ionic contents, pH and osmolality of seminal plasma and their relationships to sperm motility indices (sperm motility duration and percentage of motile sperm) were evaluated in bester. Semen was collected from six bester specimens and their seminal plasma was evaluated. The seminal plasma contained 54.5±2.8 mM sodium, 22.33±2.5 mM chloride, 7.1±1.2 mM potassium, 3.55±0.6 mM calcium and 0.58±0.09 mM magnesium. The result shows that Na+, Cl- and K+ (54.5±2.8, 22.33±2.5 and 7.1±1.2 mM, respectively) were predominant ions in bester seminal plasma like other sturgeons. However the concentrations of K+, Ca2+ and Cl- in bester seminal plasma were higher than those reported in beluga and sterlet as parental species. The mean pH and osmolality of seminal plasma were 8.09±0.34 and 127.6±20.8 mOsm kg-1, respectively. A significant negative regression was observed between osmolality and percentage motility (r=- 0.893).

Acute-Stress Biomarkers in Three Octopodidae Species After Bottom Trawling.

Several Octopodidae species have a great potential for the diversification of worldwide aquaculture. Unfortunately, the lack of stress-related biomarkers in this taxon results an obstacle for its maintenance in conditions where animal welfare is of paramount relevance. In this study, we made a first approach to uncover physiological responses related to fishing capture in Eledone moschata, Eledone cirrhosa, and Octopus vulgaris. Captured octopus from all three species were individually maintained in an aquaculture system onboard of oceanographic vessel in south-western waters of Europe. Haemolymph plasma and muscle were collected in animals at the moment of capture, and recovery was evaluated along a time-course of 48 h in Eledone spp., and 24 h for O. vulgaris. Survival rates of these species captured in spring and autumn were evaluated. Physiological parameters such as plasma pH, total CO2, peroxidase activity, lysozyme, hemocyanin, proteases, pro-phenoloxidase, anti-proteases, free amino acids, lactate and glucose levels, as well as muscle water percentage, free amino acids, lactate, glycogen and glucose values were analyzed. The immune system appears to be compromised in these species due to capture processes, while energy metabolites were mobilized to face the acute-stress situation, but recovery of all described parameters occurs within the first 24 h after capture. Moreover, this situation exerts hydric balance changes, as observed in the muscle water, being these responses depending on the species assessed. In conclusion, three Octopodidae species from south-western waters of Europe have been evaluated for stress-related biomarkers resulting in differentiated mechanisms between species. This study may pave the way to further study the physiology of stress in adult octopuses and develop new methodologies for their growth in aquaculture conditions.

Sperm quality in fish: Determinants and affecting factors

Fish sperm quality assessment is helpful for optimizing production and for monitoring the environmental state. Sperm can be monitored relatively easy and, to date, various analyses have been applied and proven to be helpful in this task. Among them, sperm motility parameters such as sperm speed are one of the main performance traits during assisted fish reproduction. Apart from motility the sperm concentration, volume, and seminal plasma pH and osmolality are also frequently evaluated and are the main sperm quality indicators measured in fish sperm. However, other parameters also determine sperm fertilization potential. Recent knowledge reveals several additional parameters of high importance for sperm function. Among them are DNA integration, membrane stability, mitochondria status and enzymatic activity. Measuring all these parameters in fish sperm provides complex knowledge regarding male fertility and helps to improve broodstock maintenance protocols as well as gamete handling and fertilization processes. This review focuses on the presentation of the sperm quality measures for freshwater and marine species of the fish and provides information regarding recent methods of sperm quality evaluation.

Efficacy of cold plasma functionalised water for improving microbiological safety of fresh produce and wash water recycling

Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) is an effective method for microbiological decontamination. This study evaluated an alternative water-based decontamination approach for inactivation of bacterial population from fresh produce and in the wash water generated from fresh produce washing. The study characterised ACP inactivation of attached Listeria innocua and Pseudomonas fluorescens inoculated on lettuce in comparison to chlorine treatment. P. fluorescens was sensitive to ACP treatment and was reduced below detection limit within 3 min of treatment. L. innocua population was reduced by ∼2.4 Log10 CFU/g after 5 min of treatment; showing similar inactivation efficacy to chlorine treatment. The microbial load in wash water was continuously decreased and was below detection limits after 10 min of ACP treatment. Micro-bubbling along with agitation assisted the bacterial detachment and distribution of reactive species, thus increasing bacterial inactivation efficacy from fresh produce and wash water. A shift in pH of plasma functionalised water was observed along with high concentration of nitrate and ozone with a relative amount of nitrites which increased with plasma exposure time. Further, L. innocua treated at different independent pH conditions showed minimal or no effect of pH on ACP bacterial inactivation efficacy. Aqueous ACP treatment poses a promising alternative for decontamination of fresh produce and the associated wash-waters which could be applied in the food industry to replace continuous chlorine dosing of process waters.

Acid‐Base Balance: Back to Basics

For decades students have struggled to understand the complexities of acid‐base balance. Facts must be learned, but more importantly concepts must be mastered. To complicate this issue, the student must appreciate the interactions between respiratory physiology, renal physiology, and the complexities involved in acid dissociation and buffering capability. The Davenport diagram provides a graphic representation of the Henderson‐Hasselbalch equation giving students a visual tool useful in understanding these complex interactions. One of the least understood components of this graph is the buffer line. The slope of the buffer line is determined by the amount of fixed buffers in the body which can decrease the extent to which new hydrogen ions alter pH. A rapid decrease in ventilation adds additional CO2 and produces acute respiratory acidosis. As can be seen on the ordinate of the Davenport diagram, the bicarbonate ion concentration can easily increase 3–4mEq/l. As this occurs, an equal amount of hydrogen ion is also produced. If it was not for the presence of fixed buffers, this would result in plasma pH≈3. The current teaching approach employs the van't Hoff Equation and the accepted rate of CO2 production in a normal individual. Using these values, it can be demonstrated that the amount of bicarbonate ions produced by reduced respiration is capable of increasing plasma bicarbonate ion by 3–4 mEq/l in several minutes. This increase in bicarbonate is independent of renal function.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

High Fructose Consumption during Pregnancy and Lactation Leads to Maternal Renal Function Alteration

The consumption of foods that have fructose in its formulations has grown in the last decades. Nevertheless, increased consumption of this sugar has been related to the development of diseases such as obesity, diabetes and others. Many physiological changes occur during pregnancy and lactation and high consumption of fructose in these periods can interfere with maternal health. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effects of increased fructose consumption on gestation and lactation on blood pressure and renal function.MethodsFemales Wistar rats were randomly assigned to groups: Control (C) and Fructose (F). The group C received food and drinking water ad libitum, and F received food and D‐fructose solution (20%) for drinking ad libitum. In F, the offer of D‐fructose solution begun 1week before mating and continued during pregnancy and lactation. Renal function was evaluated 21 days after offspring birth. Indirect measurement of systolic blood pressure (BPi), body weight, arterial blood pH, glycemia, ureia concentration in plasma, glomerular filtration rate ‐ GFR (creatinine clearance), excreted load of sodium (ENa+) and potassium (EK+) were measured. Ethic Committee on Animal Use of the Federal University of Sao Paulo approval number 757270117.ResultsCompared with C group, F presented higher values of BPi (129.7±1.4 vs 118.4±1.9 mmHg; p=0.0012), body weight (281.7±4.9 vs 232.7± 22.9 g; p=0.0245) and urinary flow (33.4±3.6 vs 14.6±2.1 mL; p=0.0035). F also had decreased GFR (3.8±0.4 vs 6.0± 0.5 mL/min/kg; p=0.0082), ENa+ (0.88±0.12 vs 1.42±0.25 mEq/24h; p=0.0350) and EK+ (2.24±0.38 vs 3.73±0.51 mEq/24h, p=0.0350). There were no significant differences between the groups regarding the arterial blood pH (7.40±0.01 vs 7.39±0.02; p=0.7599), glycemia (160.7± 3.5 vs 146.7±4.7 mg/dL; p=0.0565) and ureia concentration in plasma (36.7±1.2 vs 34.9±1.1 mg/dL; p=0.4645). Values presented as mean ± sem, Mann‐Whitney test, p ≤ 0.05; number of animals: C=6, F=7.ConclusionsThe results suggest that in rats, fructose overload during pregnancy and lactation can lead to maternal renal dysfunction (reduced GFR and sodium excretion), changes probably related to the increase in blood pressure observed in these animals.Support or Funding InformationFAPESP, CNPqThis abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Effects of a Portable Peritoneal Lavage Device on Dogs with Seawater-Immersed Open Abdominal Injury

Background Seawater-immersed open abdominal injury is a special injury during marine activities. Effective warmed peritoneal lavage in the field early after injury is the key to treatment. This pilot study aimed at exploring the treatment effects of a self-developed portable peritoneal lavage device compared with conventional treatment model. Material and Methods Beagle dogs were used to develop models of seawater-immersed open abdominal injury. A conventional lavage method or a novel peritoneal lavage device was used for lavage and rewarming. The vital signs, electrolyte, serum inflammatory cytokine expression levels, histological changes of mucosa, and microstructure variety of different groups were observed and compared before and after immersion and 2 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 5 d after lavage. Results The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, IFN-γ, VEGF, and TGF-β in the blood and the damage of tissues and cells in three groups were increased after immersion and decreased at the later points of time after lavage. The concentration of Na+, K+, Cl−, lactate, and lactate dehydrogenase in the plasma was significantly higher than that before immersion (P < 0.05), and the concentration of Ca2+ and HCO3− and plasma pH decreased slightly (P < 0.05). The degree of tissue inflammation and mucosal injury in the delayed control group and device group was lower than the control group. Conclusions Timely lavage and rewarming using a portable peritoneal lavage device reduced the inflammatory response of seawater-immersed open abdominal injury dogs and reduced the damage of multiple organs. The dogs recovered better and faster than the conventional treatment group.

Rapid measurement of hydrogen sulphide in human blood plasma using a microfluidic method

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is emerging as an important gasotransmitter in both physiological and pathological states. Rapid measurement of H2S remains a challenge. We report a microfluidic method for rapid measurement of sulphide in blood plasma using Dansyl-Azide, a fluorescence (FL) based probe. We have measured known quantities of externally added (exogenous) H2S to both buffer and human blood plasma. Surprisingly, a decrease in FL intensity with increase in exogenous sulphide concentration in plasma was observed which is attributed to the interaction between the proteins and sulphide present in plasma underpinning our observation. The effects of mixing and incubation time, pH, and dilution of plasma on the FL intensity is studied which revealed that the FL assay required a mixing time of 2 min, incubation time of 5 min, a pH of 7.1 and performing the test within 10 min of sampling; these together constitute the optimal parameters at room temperature. A linear correlation (with R2 ≥ 0.95) and an excellent match was obtained when a comparison was done between the proposed microfluidic and conventional spectrofluorometric methods for known concentrations of H2S (range 0–100 µM). We have measured the baseline level of endogenous H2S in healthy volunteers which was found to lie in the range of 70 μM – 125 μM. The proposed microfluidic device with DNS-Az probe enables rapid and accurate estimation of a key gasotransmitter H2S in plasma in conditions closely mimicking real time clinical setting. The availability of this device as at the point of care, will help in understanding the role of H2S in health and disease.

Sperm Quality and Seminal Biochemical Parameters in Infertile Men with and without Leukocytospermia

Objective: White Blood Cells (WBC) are commonly present in almost every human semen sample, but the clinical significance of leukocytospermia, defined as more than 1 × 106/mL of WBC in seminal plasma, is not elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of the leukocytospermia with sperm characteristics and biochemical markers of function of the male accessory glands in infertile men. Methods: One hundred and eighty-five men with fertility problems were investigated. They were composed of two groups, patients without leukocytospermia (n=115) and patients with leukocytospermia (n=70). The infertile men enrolled in the study underwent semen analysis and measurements of fructose, acid-phosphatase, zinc and γ- glutamyltranspeptidase in seminal plasma. Results: The mean age of study participants was 33.97 ± 6.45 years. The analysis of leukocyte concentration in semen has shown that 70 (37.8%) patients had leukocytospermia. Patients with leukocytospermia had significantly decreased sperm count and vitality while other sperm parameters such as seminal volume, progressive motility, morphology of pathological forms and seminal plasma pH were not affected. The levels of acid-phosphatase, fructose and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase were significantly decreased in infertile men with leukocytospermia compared to men without this condition. The levels of seminal zinc did not differ between the two groups of patients. Conclusion: Our results indicate that leukocytospermia has a significant negative effect on the standard semen parameters and biochemical compounds that reflect the function of accessory glands, prostate and seminal vesicles in particular.

Pharmacokinetics of intravenous administered two different high doses of ascorbic acid in healthy beagle dogs.

Objective:We performed a randomized two-way crossover study to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles of two high-dose ascorbic acid (AA) after IV infusion in healthy beagle dogs.Materials and Methods:The dogs were administered IV AA at two doses of 1.5 and 3 gm/kg for 4 h, and the AA concentration in plasma and urine pH was measured before and after administration.Results:The plasma concentrations of AA in both groups peaked 3 h after administration. Among the two groups, the urine pH was not significantly different (p = 0.1299–0.7944). High-dose IV AA did not induce serious adverse events in dogs.Conclusion:The results of this study suggest that the high dose of AA which reaches the therapeutic dose for cancer and supports the safety of high-dose IV AA in dogs.

Iron Sulfide Inhibition and Interaction With Zinc and Lead Sulfides

Summary Iron sulfide (FeS), zinc sulfide (ZnS), and lead sulfide (PbS) are considered to be among the most challenging scales in terms of inhibition and removal. They can form by the direct reaction of aqueous sulfide species with dissolved Fe, Zn, and/or Pb and by the exchange between aqueous sulfide species with preformed Fe compounds, such as Fe oxide hydroxide. These existing Fe compounds might have formed during production or intervention, such as an acid treatment. Similarly, PbS and ZnS can form by extracting sulfide from a more soluble sulfide scale (i.e., Zn exchanging with Fe in FeS). The objective of this work was to investigate FeS formation and inhibition under a range of conditions, including pH, temperature, and salinity, and to propose a mode of formation. In addition, the interaction between Fe, Zn, and Pb within solutions containing sulfide species was investigated. The majority of this study was conducted under anaerobic conditions, with the scale-formation/inhibition experiments being monitored by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis and pH and particle-size measurements. Among the tested scale inhibitors (SIs), two showed high efficiency against FeS, but high pH and salinity had detrimental effects on the performance of one of these products. Interestingly, these SIs prevented FeS deposition even under aerobic conditions (i.e., Fe hydroxide partially preformed). Moreover, at sufficiently high concentrations of SI, the deposition of ZnS and PbS was prevented even when these scales were formed by means of cation displacement (i.e., displaced ZnS and PbS ions from preformed FeS). The route of formation for FeS, ZnS, and PbS was seen to have a significant effect on the inhibition process. The particle sizes of inhibited (suspended) FeS were significantly lower than those of the blank FeS samples, with this effect increasing with increased SI concentration. This difference in particle size might have an important influence on in-line filter-blocking tests and produced-water quality issues.

Proximal Tubule-Specific Deletion of the NHE3 (Na+/H+ Exchanger 3) Promotes the Pressure-Natriuresis Response and Lowers Blood Pressure in Mice.

The present study directly tested the hypothesis that deletion of the NHE3 (Na+/H+ exchanger 3) selectively in the proximal tubules of the kidney lowers basal blood pressure by increasing the pressure-natriuresis response in mice. Adult male and female, age-matched wild-type (WT) littermates and proximal tubule-specific NHE3 knockout mice (PT- Nhe3-/-; n=6-16 per group) were studied for (1) basal phenotypes of electrolytes and pH, blood pressure, and kidney function; (2) the pressure-natriuresis response using the mesenteric, celiac, and abdominal arterial occlusion technique; and (3) the natriuretic responses to acute saline expansion (0.9% NaCl, 10% body weight, intraperitoneal) or 2-week of 2% NaCl diet. Under basal conditions, PT- Nhe3-/- mice showed significantly lower systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure ( P<0.01) than WT mice ( P<0.01). PT- Nhe3-/- mice also exhibited significantly greater diuretic ( P<0.01) and natriuretic responses than WT mice ( P<0.01), without altering 24-hour fecal Na+ excretion, plasma pH, Na+, and bicarbonate levels. In response to increased renal perfusion pressure by 30 mm Hg, the pressure-natriuresis response increased 5-fold in WT mice ( P<0.01), but it increased 8-fold in PT- Nhe3-/- mice ( P<0.01). In response to 10% acute saline expansion or 2-week 2% NaCl diet, more pronounced natriuretic responses were demonstrated in PT- Nhe3-/- than WT mice ( P<0.01). Our results support the scientific premise and physiological relevance that NHE3 in the proximal tubules plays an essential role in maintaining basal blood pressure homeostasis, and genetic deletion of NHE3 selectively in the proximal tubules of the kidney lowers blood pressure by increasing the pressure natriuretic response.

Sperm and seminal plasma proteomics of high- versus low-fertility Holstein bulls

Sperm are highly specialized compartmentalized cells, with unique compositional, morphological and functional properties, including a plasma membrane that undergoes dynamic protein remodeling and surface modifications. Seminal plasma is a highly complex biological fluid containing proteins, amino acids, enzymes, fructose and other carbohydrates, lipids, major minerals and trace elements. Seminal plasma proteins are involved in regulation of osmotic pressure and pH of seminal plasma, transport of ions, lipid and hormones. The objective was to compare sperm and seminal plasma proteomes of bulls with differing fertility and to relate differences to biological processes. Semen was collected from bulls with high or low fertility (4 bulls in each category). Sperm and seminal plasma proteins were isolated, purified, subjected to 2-D gel electrophoresis, protein identification and ontology. In sperm and seminal plasma, binder of sperm proteins (BSP)-1, −3 and −5, and spermadhesin-1, ALB, TIMP, AKI and PEBP1 were higher for high-versus low-fertility bulls (P < 0.05), whereas proteins CLU, CCT5 and 8, ELSPbP1, and PSMA6 were more abundant in sperm and seminal plasma of low- versus high-fertility bulls (P < 0.05). Further, HSP90, ZFP34, IFNRF4, BCL62, NADHD, TUBB3 and Histone H1 were in greater abundance in sperm of high- compared with low-fertility bulls. The two key biological processes of proteins differentially expressed in high- and low-fertility bulls were metabolic processes and biological regulation. The most prominent molecular functions for proteins that differed are binding, catalytic and receptor activities. The main cellular components for proteins that differed are cellular, extracellular, and plasma membrane. Since protein content differed in high- versus low-fertility bulls, we inferred that the efficiency of associated sperm functions that are necessary for fertility may also differ between high- and low-fertility semen. In conclusion, differences between high- and low-fertility bulls regarding abundance of sperm and seminal plasma proteins likely contributed to differences in fertility.

PH-Sensitive Co-Adsorption/Release of Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel by Carbon Nanotube, Fullerene, and Graphene Oxide in Combination with N-isopropylacrylamide: A Molecular Dynamics Study.

Nanotechnology based drug delivery systems for cancer therapy have been the topic of interest for many researchers and scientists. In this research, we have studied the pH sensitive co-adsorption and release of doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PAX) by carbon nanotube (CNT), fullerene, and graphene oxide (GO) in combination with N-isopropylacrylamide (PIN). This simulation study has been performed by use of molecular dynamics. Interaction energies, hydrogen bond, and gyration radius were investigated. Results reveal that, compared with fullerene and GO, CNT is a better carrier for the co-adsorption and co-release of DOX and PAX. It can adsorb the drugs in plasma pH and release it in vicinity of cancerous tissues which have acidic pH. Investigating the number of hydrogen bonds revealed that PIN created many hydrogen bonds with water resulting in high hydrophilicity of PIN, hence making it more stable in the bloodstream while preventing from its accumulation. It is also concluded from this study that CNT and PIN would make a suitable combination for the delivery of DOX and PAX, because PIN makes abundant hydrogen bonds and CNT makes stable interactions with these drugs.

Impacts of fisheries on elasmobranch reproduction: high rates of abortion and subsequent maternal mortality in the shortnose guitarfish

AbstractThe fate of bycatch species released back into the water is crucial to estimate population status and consequent decisions to implement adequate management measurements for elasmobranchs. The shortnose guitarfish, Zapteryx brevirostris, is an endemic species of the Southwest Atlantic. It is currently listed as ‘Vulnerable’ both in the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Brazilian red lists. Although this species displays high tolerance to capture and transportation by fishers from the capture site to the fish market, a significant reduction in survival rates is observed during the reproductive period. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine post‐capture and post‐commercial transportation consequences in pregnant females obtained as bycatch from artisanal fisheries in Southern Brazil. Results showed high abortion rates and reduced maternal survival after abortion, with all abortions occurring within 28 h of monitoring in laboratory. Stress plasma markers were also evaluated, to determine the physiological consequences of capture‐induced parturition to pregnant females. Results showed alteration in all markers measured (plasma urea, pH, lactate, phosphorus, and potassium) with values for dead pregnant females being different from non‐pregnant females and those which survived capture and subsequent abortions. The mortality caused by fisheries bycatch may prove difficult to manage, with immediate release and specific handling protocols for pregnant females implemented through environmental education environmental education and fishermen training programs, potential options to maintain adequate maternal survival and recruitment for this species.

AB034. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ejaculatory duct obstructive diseases

Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) is a cause of sperm dysfunction caused by obstructive factors in relation to vas deferens and epididymal obstruction. It is also one of the few male infertilities that can be cured by surgery, accounting for 1% to 5% of all male infertility causes. The causes of EDO can be divided into congenital and acquired factors. Congenital factors include loss of development, stenosis, Wolffian tube, Müllerian tube dysplasia, etc. Acquired factors include surgery, trauma, infection or inflammation, stones, tumors, etc. Congenital dysplasia is the most common cause of EDO when compared with acquired factors. EDO can be divided into one-sided EDO and bilateral EDO according to the anatomy of obstruction. According to the degree of obstruction, it can be divided into two types. Complete obstruction and incomplete obstruction. The clinical manifestations of complete obstruction are typical “four low” semen characteristics, that is, the amount of semen is small, there is no sperm, the pH of the seminal plasma is low, and the refined berry sugar is zero. Incomplete obstruction may have a variety of manifestations such as oligospermia, blood, pelvic pain. EDO has many clinical manifestations. Typically, typical semen exhibits a “four lows” feature. Transrectal ultrasound is an important imaging and surgical treatment for EDO screening. Magnetic resonance imaging provides high-resolution images of the reproductive system. Transurethral resection of the urethra (TURED) is a classic procedure for the treatment of EDO. The application of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy has become a new trend of minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of EDO, and the latest flexible vesiculovasoscopy (FVV) or vasoscopy techniques may further improve the diagnosis and treatment of EDO.