PGF2 Research Articles

Electronic hookah vaping reduces plasma concentrations of nitrate/nitrite and increases systemic oxidative stress

Abstract Background Electronic (e-) hookah–a new category of vaping devices–has increased in use among young adults in recent years. E-hookahs utilize the placement of e-bowls on traditional water pipes, allowing the flavored aerosol to pass through a water-filled base before being inhaled. Though advertised as a safe tobacco alternative, e-hookahs deliver flavored nicotine by creating an aerosol of fine particles and other free radicals that may increase cardiovascular disease risk. While acute e-hookah vaping impairs endothelial function, the underlying mechanism is not completely understood. Purpose To determine the mechanistic involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and oxidative stress underlying the acute e-hookah induced endothelial dysfunction. Methods Healthy young adult chronic hookah smokers (n=7; 26±1 years of age, 24.4±0.8 kg-m2; mean ±SE) were randomized to vape two 30-minute sessions of flavored e-hookah and sham vaping, separated by a 7-day washout period. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery was performed with the use of ultrasound. Circulating plasma nitrite/nitrate (NOx), as an index of nitric oxide (NO) concentration, and lipid peroxidation marker 8-isoprostane concentrations, as well as smoking exposure biomarkers (plasma nicotine and exhaled carbon monoxide) were measured before and after the vaping sessions. Results As compared to unchanged parameters with sham vaping (p=ns), e-hookah vaping induced an acute reduction in FMD by −27±3% (pre- vs. post-vaping, p<0.001), suggesting impairment in endothelial function. These vascular changes were accompanied by significant reductions in circulating plasma levels of NOx and increases in 8-iso prostaglandin F2a levels (−41±11% and +28±11%, respectively; p<0.001). Plasma nicotine concentrations increased 4-fold more after vaping e-hookah, whereas exhaled CO levels did not change (p=ns). Conclusions Our data demonstrate that e-hookah vaping transiently increases systemic oxidative stress and decreases NOx levels, the latter implies reduced NO bioavailability and is in line with the observed impairment in endothelial function, expressed by acute FMD reductions. Thus, in contrast to the unsubstantiated beliefs that e-hookah vaping is benign, in overtly healthy young adults, e-hookah vaping causes acute vascular functional impairment, likely mediated by oxidative stress. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): University of California Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program, University of California

Current knowledge about the processes of luteolysis and maternal recognition of pregnancy in camelids.

Camelids have many unique reproductive features that considerably differ from those of other domestic species. Females are induced ovulators with subsequent development of a corpus luteum (CL) with a short lifespan. Plasma progesterone concentration starts to increase on day 4, peaks on day 8-9 and, in non-pregnant animals, basal concentration is reached around day 10-11 post-induction of ovulation. Luteolytic pulses of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α ) are firstly detected on day 7 or 8 (approximately on day 5-6 after ovulation), with maximal luteolytic peaks observed between days 9 and 11 post-mating, in coincidence with a high endometrial expression of cyclooxygenase 2, a limiting enzyme in prostaglandins synthesis. Unlike other species, oxytocin seems not to be involved in the luteolytic process in these species. The CL is the main source of progesterone secretion, and its function is required to support pregnancy. Despite constant research efforts, aspects of reproduction and maternal recognition of pregnancy in camelids remain not fully understood. A transient decrease and subsequent recovery in plasma progesterone concentration are observed after day 9 post-mating in pregnant animals in association with a pulsatile release of PGF2α and a transitory decrease in CL vascularization. Thus, embryo recognition should occur between days 8 and 12 post-mating. In camels, conceptus tissues exhibit aromatizing activity with the capacity to synthesize large amounts of oestradiol. Similarly, llama blastocysts secrete oestradiol-17β during the preimplantation stage, with a higher production during the elongation period. An increase in the endometrial expression of oestrogen receptor α is also observed on day 12 post-mating. All these evidences suggest that oestrogen could be the signal released by the embryo at the time of its recognition in camelids. Besides, nearly 98% of pregnancies are carried out in the left horn. A decrease in the endometrial expression of mucin 1 and 16 genes has been reported, suggesting that these changes are crucial for successful embryo implantation; however, no differences have been observed between horns. Thus, maternal recognition of pregnancy in camelids is a particularly complex process that must occur in a concise time to allow the rescue of the CL and embryo survival.

RECURRENT CATAMENIAL PNEUMOTHORAX: AND WE THOUGHT OUR CRAMPS WERE BAD

RECURRENT CATAMENIAL PNEUMOTHORAX: AND WE THOUGHT OUR CRAMPS WERE BAD

The Effect of Yoga Exercise on Menstrual Pain Reduction

Pain mechanism is an integrated process of sensory input, emotional and cognitive systems. The body responds to pain as a feeling of discomfort. Menstrual pain is caused by increased uterine contractions and angiospasm triggered by prostaglandins F2 and E2. This study aims to determine how yoga exercises reduce menstrual pain in high school students. This type of research is quasi-experimental with a comparison group (pre and post-test with control group design). The study was conducted at SMA Negeri 6 Palembang for 30 days, from October 10 to November 10, 2021. The study sample was all class XI students who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of 50 respondents. The homogeneity of the respondents' characteristics was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Description analysis to determine the mean and standard deviation. The bivariate test used was Paired t-test with a significance degree of 0.05. From the results, it was found that the average score of menstrual pain was significantly decreased in the treatment group compared to the control group, with a p-value of 0.002. This study concludes that yoga exercise affects reducing menstrual pain.

Differential distribution of eicosanoids and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the Penaeus monodon male reproductive tract and their effects on total sperm counts

Eicosanoids, which are oxygenated derivatives of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), serve as signaling molecules that regulate spermatogenesis in mammals. However, their roles in crustacean sperm development remain unknown. In this study, the testis and vas deferens of the black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with Orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry. This led to the identification of three PUFAs and ten eicosanoids, including 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2) and (±)15-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid ((±)15-HEPE), both of which have not previously been reported in crustaceans. The comparison between wild-caught and domesticated shrimp revealed that wild-caught shrimp had higher sperm counts, higher levels of (±)8-HEPE in testes, and higher levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and prostaglandin F2α in vas deferens than domesticated shrimp. In contrast, domesticated shrimp contained higher levels of (±)12-HEPE, (±)18-HEPE, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in testes and higher levels of 15d-PGJ2, (±)12-HEPE, EPA, arachidonic acid (ARA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in vas deferens than wild-caught shrimp. To improve total sperm counts in domesticated shrimp, these broodstocks were fed with polychaetes, which contained higher levels of PUFAs than commercial feed pellets. Polychaete-fed shrimp produced higher total sperm counts and higher levels of PGE2 in vas deferens than pellet-fed shrimp. In contrast, pellet-fed shrimp contained higher levels of (±)12-HEPE, (±)18-HEPE, and EPA in testes and higher levels of (±)12-HEPE in vas deferens than polychaete-fed shrimp. These data suggest a positive correlation between high levels of PGE2 in vas deferens and high total sperm counts as well as a negative correlation between (±)12-HEPE in both shrimp testis and vas deferens and total sperm counts. Our analysis not only confirms the presence of PUFAs and eicosanoids in crustacean male reproductive organs, but also suggests that the eicosanoid biosynthesis pathway may serve as a potential target to improve sperm production in shrimp.

286 Effects of Presynchronization with Prostaglandin F2α and a Progestin, and Delayed Insemination on Pregnancy Rates with Sexed Semen in Replacement Beef Heifers

Abstract To determine effects of presynchronization and delayed fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) on pregnancy rates (PR/AI) with sexed semen, 1,844 beef heifers were enrolled in a completely randomized design at 12 locations. Within location, heifers were randomly assigned to one of five treatments: 1 and 2), heifers administered prostaglandin F2α (PGF) on day -7, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and a CIDR insert on day 0, PGF at CIDR removal on day 7, and another injection of GnRH at TAI 72 hours later with conventional (CTRL72-CNV) or sexed semen (CTRL72-SEX); 3 and 4), treated the same as CTRL72 but received a CIDR insert on day -7 at PGF administration and TAI at 60 hours with conventional (CIDR60-CNV) or sexed semen (CIDR60-SEX); 5), treated the same as CIDR60 but had TAI delayed to 72 hours with sexed semen (CIDR72-SEX). Estrus expression between day 7 and TAI did not differ (P=0.92) between CIDR60 and CIDR72 heifers but was greater (P< 0.001) in CIDR60 and CIDR72 heifers compared with CTRL72 heifers. Among treatments, PR/AI differed (P< 0.001) and were greater (P≤0.003) in CTRL72-CNV and CIDR60-CNV heifers than CIDR60-SEX and CIDR72-SEX heifers. Furthermore, PR/AI were greater (P< 0.001) in CTRL72-SEX and CIDR60-SEX heifers when compared with CIDR72-SEX heifers but only tended (P=0.09) to differ between CTRL72-SEX and CIDR60-CNV heifers. No differences (P=0.33) were determined between CTRL72-CNV and CIDR60-CNV or between CTRL72-SEX and CIDR60-SEX heifers (P=0.22). In conclusion, no differences were determined between heifers presynchronized with only PGF and those presynchronized with PGF and a CIDR insert when inseminated with either conventional or sexed semen. Therefore, use of a CIDR insert for an additional 7 days was not beneficial to PR/AI when heifers were TAI at 60 hours with either conventional or sexed semen. Additionally, delaying TAI to 72 hours with sexed semen after presynchronization with both PGF and a CIDR insert has a negative impact on PR/AI.

PSI-5 Comparison of 7&7 Synch and 7-day Co-Synch + Cidr Protocols in a Fixed-Time ai System on Beef Cows Using Y-Sorted sex-Selected Semen

Abstract The 7&7 Synch and the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR fixed-time estrous synchronization protocols were compared among mature and two-year-old lactating postpartum Angus and SimAngus cows (n=201). Mature (n=63) and two-year-old (n=36) cows treated with the 7&7 Synch received an injection of prostaglandin F2α (PGF; 25 mg dinoprost tromethamine) at the same time as insertion of an intravaginal progesterone-releasing insert (CIDR; 1.38g progesterone) on Day -17, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH; 100 μg gonadorelin) on Day -10, and PGF at time of CIDR removal on Day -3. Mature (n=65) and two-year-old (n=37) cows in the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR groups received an injection of GnRH on Day -10 that coincided with CIDR insertion and received PGF at the time of CIDR removal on Day -3. Fixed-timed AI (FTAI) by a single technician using Y-chromosome-bearing sex-sorted semen (4x106 sperm/unit of SexedULTRA 4M) from one of two Charolais bulls occurred on Day 0, 70 hours after PGF injection. Seven days later bulls were pastured with cows for the remainder of the breeding season. Transrectal ultrasound was performed 77-83 days after AI and fetal size was used to differentiate AI and natural service pregnancies. Within the mature cows and two-year-old age groups, the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS was used to compare FTAI and breeding season pregnancy rates with estrous synchronization treatment and sire as main effects. No differences (P=0.41) were observed amongst mature cows in FTAI pregnancy rates between the 7&7 Synch (52.4%) and the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR (44.9%) treatments. A greater (P=0.05) proportion of two-year-old cows were pregnant to FTAI following treatment with the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR (56.7%) as compared to the 7&7 Synch (33.4%). A greater (P=0.02) proportion of two-year-old cows in the 7-day CO-Synch+CIDR treatment (91.9%) were pregnant at the conclusion of the breeding season as compared with the 7&7 Synch (69.7%).

PSXII-4 Estrus Synchronization and Artificial Insemination in Korean Black Goats Using Frozen-Thawed Semen

Abstract Korean black goat (Capra hircus coreanae) populations are dwindling and facing genetic erosion due to artificial insemination. Here, we introduced an estrus synchronization method for Korean black goats to enable crossbreeding with non-native breeds on small farms and investigated the application of estrus synchronization and artificial insemination in Korean black goats. Semen was obtained using electro-ejaculation and preserved using a conventional and simple freezing method. Pre- and post-freezing semen was analyzed using computer-assisted sperm analysis, as per the Food Standards Agency 2011 guidelines. The percentage of motile sperm in the electro-ejaculated samples declined significantly after freezing and thawing. However, this did not influence the artificial insemination results. In addition, the incubation period was positively correlated with sperm motility decline in the frozen-thawed sperm samples. Blood progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2) concentrations were also analyzed to determine the optimal artificial insemination time in estrus-synchronized Korean black goats. The blood samples were collected from a jugular vein at approximately 0900 daily for 5 days. Subsequently, the serum was obtained using centrifugation and stored at -70°C until analysis. Although the P4 and E2 concentrations were generally unaffected by the estrous synchronization method, the controlled internal drug release + prostaglandin F2α + pregnant mare serum gonadotropin method yielded a 42.9% parturition rate after artificial insemination. In the present study, an offspring from an estrus-synchronized Korean black goat was successfully produced by artificial insemination using frozen-thawed semen. The successful cryopreservation of semen for artificial insemination was substantiated with sperm motility and pregnancy rates. In the future, additional studies of estrus synchronization for the artificial insemination of Korean black goats are needed. Our results are expected to significantly contribute to the Korean black goat breeding industry.

PSIII-5 Evaluation of Gnrh Administration day in the 7 & 7 Synch Protocol for Fixed-Timed Artificial Insemination in Multiparous Beef Cows

Abstract The objective was to determine the effects of a decreased interval of progesterone on the ovulatory follicle prior to fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI) in a 7 & 7 Synch estrous synchronization protocol using estrus expression (EE), FTAI pregnancy rates (AIPR) on 37±2d, and overall pregnancy rates (OPR) after a 60d bull exposure 90±2d determined via ultrasound. Using conventional Angus semen, multiparous Angus-cross cows (n=201) from two locations were randomized by age and days post-partum into two treatments. Both treatments used a controlled internal drug releasing device (Eazi-breedTM CIDR; 1.38g progesterone) inserted intravaginally –14d of the protocol simultaneous to administration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF; 500µg cloprostenol sodium; Estrumate®). In the first treatment (7&7), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; 86µg gonadorelin; Fertagyl®) was administered on –7d. In the second treatment (8&6), GnRH was administered on –6d. Both treatments were then administered PGF simultaneous to CIDR removal on 0d, 66±2h prior to FTAI and administration of GnRH. EE was determined at the time of artificial insemination using an EstrotectTM patch (Rockway Inc., Spring Valley, WI). EE was signified as a patch with 50% or more of the color rubbed off or missing. Subsequently, a patch with less than 50% of the color rubbed off, was not. AIPR, OPR and EE were analyzed by treatment using the GLIMMIX procedure on SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC.). There was a significant effect on EE (P=0.01), a tendency on PR (P=0.08), and no effect on OPR (P=0.53) by treatment. EE, AIPR, and OPR for 7&7 were 95±2.1%, 82±3.7% and 96.7±1.7% and for 8&6 were 86±4.0%, 91±3.1% and 98±1.5%, respectively. In conclusion, the altered timeframe of GnRH administration affected EE and tended to affect PR in multiparous beef cows, suggesting that GnRH administration may improve PR when administered 6d, instead of 7d, prior to CIDR removal.

292 Evaluation of two Beef cow Fixed-Time AI Protocols That Utilize pre-Synchronization

Abstract Pre-synchronization has been evaluated as a method to improve synchrony of ovulatory follicles before fixed-time AI (FTAI). The objective was to compare FTAI results in beef cows from two protocols that utilize pre-synchronization. Blood samples were collected on d-14 (d0=CIDR removal) to determine progesterone concentration at the start of synchronization (P4start: ≥1ng/mL=high, < 1ng/mL=low). In a subset (n=1,032), an additional blood sample was taken between d-21 and -29 to determine cyclicity. Cows (n=1,119), from 21 herds, were grouped by days postpartum and age and randomly assigned to one of two protocols. Cows assigned to the PG 6-day CIDR protocol (PG6d) received prostaglandin F2α (PG) on d-9, CIDR insertion and GnRH on d-6, and CIDR removal and PG on d0. Cows assigned to the 7&7 Synch protocol (7&7) were administered PG and CIDR insertion on d-14, GnRH on d-7, CIDR removal and PG on d0. For both protocols, FTAI occurred coincident with GnRH 66 h after second PG. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal ultrasonography 30-40 d following FTAI. The GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (9.4) was used to detect differences in estrus response and pregnancy success with herd included as a random variable. Estrus response (0 to 66 h) was influenced by treatment (P< 0.01; PG6d=60±5% and 7&7=74±4%), Body Condition Score (P< 0.01), cycling status (P=0.03), P4start (P< 0.01), and a P4start by treatment interaction (P< 0.001; PG6d-highP4=62±6%, PG6d-lowP4=58±6%, 7&7-highP4=84±3%, 7&7-lowP4=60±6%). Pregnancy success was influenced by estrus expression (P< 0.01; estrus=38±4% and no estrus=62±6%), and a treatment by P4start interaction (P=0.04; PG6d-highP4=58±5%, PG6d-lowP4=39±7%, 7&7-highP4=49±5%, 7&7-lowP4=55±8%) but was not influenced by treatment (P=0.45; PG6d=49±4% and 7&7=52±4%). In conclusion, effectiveness of pre-synchronization method depends on a cows’ physiological status at the beginning of the protocol. The 7&7 protocol increased estrus response compared to PG6d, but there was no difference in pregnancy success.

222 Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy in the Mare: What is Needed to Make Progress in our Understanding of This Complex Issue

Abstract Maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) resulting in prolonged luteal lifespan is crucial to maintenance of pregnancy. Mechanisms underlying MRP differ in between species, whereat the precise mechanism by which luteolysis is prevented has yet to be described for equine pregnancy. Transcriptional profiling studies entailing analysis of endometrial and embryonic tissues have shed light into the wider context of maternal recognition of pregnancy. Our own studies revealed the secretion of fibrinogen by preimplantation equine embryos, which is a peculiar finding as fibrinogen synthesis almost exclusively occurs in the liver. Conceptus-derived fibrinogen likely contributes to cell adhesion during fixation and underlines the helpfulness of transcriptome studies in identifying species-specific aspects of early pregnancy. Despite all our advances, we yet have to decipher the signaling pathways leading to reduced endometrial production of prostaglandin F2alpha during MRP. We recently analyzed samples from mares undergoing spontaneous pregnancy loss in the face of high progesterone in comparison to samples collected from mares at Day 20 of intact pregnancy. No differentially expressed transcripts could be detected. It appears that after maternal recognition of pregnancy and consequent suppression of luteolysis, progesterone, not the presence of a viable conceptus, is the driving force of gene expression. This finding underlines the importance of understanding the events surrounding luteostasis. We propose that a standardized approach in vitro cell culture model is needed to address mechanistic questions pertaining to MRP. Approaches currently underway such as CRISPR/Cas9-mediated targeted integration of TERT and TERC to immortalize equine endometrial stromal fibroblasts will be discussed.

Taohong Siwu Decoction Promotes Osteo-Angiogenesis in Fractures by Regulating the HIF-1α Signaling Pathway.

Background Vascular damage is a major consequence of bone fracture. Taohong Siwu decoction (TSD) can raise the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in fracture healing. However, its molecular mechanism in promoting angiogenesis is still unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential mechanisms of TSD in the regulation of osteo-angiogenesis in fracture healing. Methods A rat tibial fracture model was established. After low- (4.5 g·kg−1), medium- (9 g·kg−1), and high-dose TSD (18 g·kg−1) and panax notoginsenoside (25 mg kg−1) treatment, hematoxylin-eosin staining was employed to visualize pathological changes in bone tissues. The levels of cytokines (interleukin (IL)-2, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-6, and IL-1β), thromboxane B2 (TXB2), and 6 ketone prostaglandin F1α (6-Keto-PGF1α) were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunofluorescence was used to identify the rat aortic endothelial cells (RAECs). Control serum, 10% TSD-containing serum, and 10% TSD-containing serum combined with hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) inhibitor were used to treat the RAECs and rat osteoblasts. Transwell migration assay was utilized to examine the migration of the RAECs. The Matrigel tubulogenesis assay was used for the assessment of angiogenesis. The expression of angiogenesis- (von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor (VHL), HIF-1α, VEGF, angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), and pVHL) and osteogenesis-related (alkaline phosphatase (ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and osteopontin-1 (OPN-1)) protein and gene was detected by western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Results Compared with the model group, TSD increased the trabecular bone areas, numbers, and thicknesses in fractured rats. In the plasma, the levels of cytokines and TXB2 in the middle- and high-dose TSD group were significantly lower than those in the model group (P < 0.01). The 6-keto-PGF1α content was increased by middle- and high-dose TSD intervention (P < 0.01). Compared to the control serum group, the angiogenesis and migration of the RAECs were enhanced in the TSD group (P < 0.001). The expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, and Ang-2 in the TSD group upregulated significantly (P < 0.001). VHL and pVHL were inhibited under TSD-containing serum treatment (P < 0.001). ALP, Runx2, and OPN-1 were increased obviously in the TSD group (P < 0.001). Nevertheless, the HIF-1α inhibitor reversed these changes (P < 0.001). Conclusion TSD promotes angiogenesis and osteogenesis by regulating the HIF-1α signaling pathway. Meanwhile, it can effectively reduce the risk of inflammation and improve blood circulation.

The vaginal and uterine blood flow changes during the ovsynch program and its impact on the pregnancy rates in Holstein dairy cows

AimOvSynch is a hormonal protocol for synchronization of estrus and use of artificial insemination (AI) at an optimal time without adverse effects on the ovaries or uterus. This study investigated the use of noninvasive color Doppler ultrasound to assess changes in uterine and vaginal blood flow during the Ovsynch program for synchronization of estrus and its relation to the pregnancy rates in Holstein cows.Materials and methodsThe experimental cows received an intramuscular dose of 10 μg of a GnRH analogue (G1), followed 7 days later with an intramuscular injection of synthetic prostaglandin F2α (P: PGF2α) analogue (500 μg cloprostenol sodium), and given a 10 μg, injection of the GnRH analogue (G2) i.m. 48 h after the PGF2α treatment, and the cows were bred 14-16 h after. Uterine and vaginal perfusion were investigated by performing transrectal Doppler ultrasonography of both the uterine and vaginal arteries in Holstein cows at different time points during the Ovsynch program to determine: peak systolic velocity (PSV), time-averaged maximum velocity (TAMV), the volume of blood flow (BFV), pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), resistance impedance (S/D) and diameters of uterine (UA) and vaginal (VA) arteries. Steroid hormones were also assayed. Transrectal ultrasonography (TUS) was performed at 32 and 60 days to confirm the pregnancy per artificial insemination (P/AI).ResultsThe uterine PSV, TAMV, and PV were greater at the time of the cloprostenol sodium and second GnRH injections (p<0.05) than at the time of the first GnRH injection. The vaginal PSV, PV were greater at the time of the cloprostenol sodium than at the time of the first and second GnRH injections (p<0.05). The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) indicated a high correlation between the uterine and vaginal blood flow and the rate of the pregnancy (p<0.05). The area under the ROC curve was 0.920 and 0.87 (p<0.05) for vaginal and uterine arteries respectively at time of G2. The serum levels of progesterone, estrogen and cortisol were correlated with the P/AI (p<0.05). The P/AI significantly decreased from 43.9 % at 32 d to 35.37 % at 60 d.ConclusionThese results indicate that noninvasive Doppler ultrasonography is a valid method to evaluate changes in the characteristics of uterine and vaginal blood flow in cows during the Ovsynch protocol. Furthermore, vaginal and uterine blood flow are two determinant factors for the higher conception rates in Holstein dairy cows.

Effect of Different Ecbolic Agents on Postpartum Reproductive Performance in Surti Buffaloes

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different ecbolic therapies on puerperium in twenty four Surti buffaloes divided into four different groups consisting of six animals in each. Buffaloes in Group-I (T1) were not given any treatment and considered as control group. Group-II (T2) and Group- III (T3) buffaloes were injected methylergometrine (5 mg) and dinoprost tromethamine (25 mg) i/m, respectively, immediately after parturition. The animals in Group-IV (T4) received oral herbal ecbolic, 100 mL, daily for first 10 days postpartum. The time required for placental expulsion, persistence of lochial discharge, involution of uterus and service period were significantly (P&lt;0.05) longer in T1 (14.86±6.65 h, 12.17±1.94 days, 36.50±4.76 days and 103.33±12.10 days, respectively) than T2 (10.33±2.71 h, 8.83±1.47 days, 33.33±3.61 days and 95.00±8.74 days), T3 (7.00±1.48 h, 8.00±1.41 days, 29.50±1.14 days and 86.50±4.88 days) and T4 (9.38±1.62 h, 10.17±1.47 days, 31.17±3.19 days and 97.80±7.21 days, respectively). The conception rates achieved in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups/treatment were 50.00, 83.33, 100.0 and 83.33 %, respectively, with an overall conception rate of 79.17 % for all four groups of Surti buffaloes. The results were significantly superior with injection methylergometrine (5 mg) Group III given immediate postpartum, hence may be practiced to improve uterine health and postpartum fertility in buffaloes.

The time of eCG administration in progesterone injection-based estrus synchronization protocol could affect the time of estrus expression in ewes during non-breeding season

The objectives of this study were to investigate the suitable time of eCG administration following progesterone injections, and to propose the suitable time for AI in progesterone injection-based estrus synchronization protocol in ewes during non-breeding season. Healthy Shal ewes (n = 140) were used in this study. All ewes were exposed to rams for 10 h, after two months of isolation from males. Six days after ram exposure, all ewes were given progesterone (37.5 mg; SC; Day 0 of experiment) in association with GnRH analogue (7.5 µg Alarelin acetate; IM). Subsequently, the second (25 mg; SC) and the third (12.5 mg; SC) doses of progesterone were given, 3 days apart. Concurrent with the third dose of progesterone, all ewes received prostaglandin F2α analogue (250 µg Cloprostenol; IM). On Day 6, ewes were divided into four groups considering their age, BCS and parity. Ewes in groups 1, 2 and 3 received eCG (400 IU, IM), concurrent, 24 h, and 48 h following the last progesterone injection, respectively. Ewes in control group did not receive any further treatment. Estrus detection was carried out from the last progesterone injection for 6 days. Ewes that exhibited standing estrus were drafted and inseminated laparoscopically within 24 h after standing estrus. Data were analyzed using GLM and GENMOD procedures in SAS. The incidence of estrus was similar in all groups (P > 0.05). The time to estrus and AI after the last progesterone injection was longer in control than in other treatment groups (P < 0.05). Lambing rate in group 2 (66.7%) was higher than in control group (40%; P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in prolificacy among groups (P > 0.05). Fecundity in group 3 (83.3%) was higher than in control (43.3%; P < 0.05). The percentage of ewes that exhibited estrus within 24 h occurs earlier in eCG treated groups than in control (P < 0.05). In conclusion, although the time of eCG administration after the last progesterone injection could result in almost similar reproductive performance in ewe, it will shift the time of estrus expression and AI, affecting the proper time for AI.

Adding equine chorionic gonadotropin to the G6G protocol improves pregnancy rate of dairy cows under heat stress conditions

We studied 663 cyclic lactating Holstein cows in an industrial farm near Qazvin, Iran, from June 2119 to September 2020. We investigated the effects of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) hormone administration 80 h before the implementation of the Ovsynch and fixed-time artificial insemination (OVS + FTAI) program in the form of the G6G protocol on pregnancy rate and reproductive parameters of dairy cows in the first postpartum insemination under heat stress conditions. The cows were randomly assigned to one of the following protocols and received the following treatments: G6G (prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2α)-2d-gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)-6d-OVS+FTAI(GnRH(GnRH1)-7d-PGF2α(PG)-56h-GnRH-18h-FTAI, n = 213), 300 international unit (IU) eCG+G6G (300e+G6G) (PGF2α-2d- GnRH-64h-300 IU,eCG-80h-OVS+FTAI, n = 231), and 500 IU eCG+G6G (500e+G6G) (PGF2α-2d-GnRH-64h-500IU,eCG-80h-OVS+FTAI, n = 219). The overall pregnancy rates of cows in the G6G, 300e+G6G, and 500e+G6G protocols were 29.5 ± 0.03%, 33.7 ± 0.03%, and 35.6 ± 0.03%, respectively. The 500e+G6G protocol increased the pregnancy rate of cows with a body condition score (BCS) ≤ 2.5 compared to the G6G protocol (P = 0.04). The 500e+G6G protocol significantly increased the pregnancy rate of cows that produced &gt; 34 kg milk per day compared to the G6G protocol (P = 0.03). In conclusion, using 500 IU, eCG 80 h before the implementation of the OVS+FTAI program in the form of G6G protocol had beneficial effects on increasing the pregnancy rate of cows that had a BCS ≤ 2.5 or produced &gt; 34 kg milk per day compared to the G6G protocol under heat stress conditions.

Reproductive Performance and Economic Estimates of Pasundan Cattle Induced with Prostaglandins and Hormone Releasing Gonadotropins

Twenty Pasundan heifers were used in this study to determine the economic estimation of Pasundan cattle induced with prostaglandins and gonadotropin-releasing hormones. The cows were randomly divided into two groups of 10 each. The first group came from breeders who are members of the Rundayan Sawargi Group, Karya Mukti Village, Cibalong District, Garut Regency and the second group of cows came from the Mekar Tani 2 Livestock Group, having their address at Singasari Village, Jonggol District, Bogor Regency. All cows were injected with prostaglandins (PGF2α, dinoprost tromethamine) with a dose of 5 ml/head intramuscularly 2 (two) times with an interval of 11 days, and on the 9th day was injected with gonadotropin realizing hormone (GnRH, gonadorelin) of 2.5 ml/head intramuscularly. Cows in heat were artificially inseminated 2x with an interval of 6 hours. The variables observed were the percentage of birth rate, childbirth weight and body weight gain up to 120 days of age, percentage of calf mortality to 120 days of age, profit, and B/C ratio. The data were processed by analysis of variance and used descriptive methods. The results showed that cows in the Garut region had an average calving rate (birth rate) of 90%, birth weight of calves 21.51 ± 0.71 kg, body weight gain 0.60 ± 0.5 kg/head/day, mortality 0%, profit Rp. 26,495,000, - and B / C ratio 1.1. better than the Bogor area with a birth rate of 87.5%. Birth weight 19.95 ± 2.02 kg, body weight gained 0.55 ± 0.5 kg/head/day, mortality 0%, Profit Rp. 12,120,000, -and B / C ratio 0.51. It was concluded that the economic estimation of Pasundan cattle induced with prostaglandins and gonadotropin hormones in the Garut area is better than the Bogor area, with an increase in income of 218.23% per 13 months.&#x0D; Keywords: pasundan cows, hormone induction, reproductive performance, economic estimation

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF hCG IN THE DYNAMICS OF FUNCTIONAL STRUCTURE OF SUPEROVULATED ACEH CATTLE OVARIES USING PREGNANT MARE SERUM GONADOTROPINS

This study aimed to determine the biopotency of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) in stimulating the formation of dominant follicles and the biopotency of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in triggering an increase in the ovulation rate of the natural-estrus donor group and the prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) induced group using female Aceh cattle (n= 20) which were divided into two treatment groups: the group with natural estrus (A) and the group with PGF2α -induced estrus (B). Each donor group was superovulated using the injection of PMSGhCG (A1, B1) and only PMSG (A2, B2). The observations on total follicles and CL were carried out at D10, D14/D+0 and D21/D+7 using ultrasonography (USG). The results showed that PMSG gave a better superovulatory response to the development of dominant follicles (P0.01) at A1, A2, B1, and B2. The administration of hCG hormone 2000 IU i.m. was not able to increase the rate of ovulation. Total follicles after the addition of hCG were also not significantly different between A1:A2 and B1:B2. Statistically, the number of CL in all donor groups in D21 was not significantly different (P0.05). It concluded, superovulation using PMSG gave the same results to the donor cows with natural estrus and the donor cows with PGF2α-induced estrus. The hCG hormone with a dose of 2000 IU injected i.m. was also not able to increase the ovulation rate of Aceh cattle superovulated with PMSG 2500 IU i.m. ____________________________________________________

Integrated Analysis of Transcriptome and Metabolome Reveals Distinct Responses of Pelteobagrus fulvidraco against Aeromonas veronii Infection at Invaded and Recovering Stage.

Yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) is an important aquaculture fish susceptible to Aeromonas veronii infection, which causes acute death resulting in huge economic losses. Understanding the molecular processes of host immune defense is indispensable to disease control. Here, we conducted the integrated and comparative analyses of the transcriptome and metabolome of yellow catfish in response to A. veronii infection at the invaded stage and recovering stage. The crosstalk between A. veronii-induced genes and metabolites uncovered the key biomarkers and pathways that strongest contribute to different response strategies used by yellow catfish at corresponding defense stages. We found that at the A. veronii invading stage, the immune defense was strengthened by synthesizing lipids with energy consumption to repair the skin defense line and accumulate lipid droplets promoting intracellular defense line; triggering an inflammatory response by elevating cytokine IL-6, IL-10 and IL-1β following PAMP-elicited mitochondrial signaling, which was enhanced by ROS produced by impaired mitochondria; and activating apoptosis by up-regulating caspase 3, 7 and 8 and Prostaglandin F1α, meanwhile down-regulating FoxO3 and BCL6. Apoptosis was further potentiated via oxidative stress caused by mitochondrial dysfunction and exceeding inflammatory response. Additionally, cell cycle arrest was observed. At the fish recovering stage, survival strategies including sugar catabolism with D-mannose decreasing; energy generation through the TCA cycle and Oxidative phosphorylation pathways; antioxidant protection by enhancing Glutathione (oxidized), Anserine, and α-ketoglutarate; cell proliferation by inducing Cyclin G2 and CDKN1B; and autophagy initiated by FoxO3, ATG8 and ATP6V1A were highlighted. This study provides a comprehensive picture of yellow catfish coping with A. veronii infection, which adds new insights for deciphering molecular mechanisms underlying fish immunity and developing stage-specific disease control techniques in aquaculture.

The combination of melatonin implants and prostaglandin F2α improves lamb production in a late-autumn mating season

To determine the effect of the combination of melatonin implants and prostaglandin (PG) F2α on reproductive performance in the late breeding season (Dec at the northern hemisphere), 500 Lacaune ewes were divided into four groups. On day 0 (7 Nov), 150 ewes were treated with a melatonin (M) implant. From that group, 64 ewes (M + 1PGF group) were injected with 10-mg prostaglandin (PG) F2α 34 d after melatonin implantation (11 Dec). The remaining 86 ewes (M group) were treated with melatonin, only. Another group of 75 ewes (2PGF group) was treated with double injection of PGF2α (9 days between the first and second application) (2 and 11 Dec), and 75 non-treated ewes (C group) were the control group. The remaining 200 ewes of the flock were not considered in the study. Rams (n = 23) were introduced on 11 Dec. The percentage of prolificacy, lambing and fecundity rates were calculated. Lambing rate did not differ among groups (M: 79%; M + 1PGF: 78%; 2PGF: 69%; C: 71%). The M + 1PGF group had a higher % of prolificacy than the 2PGF group (P < 0.10) and the C group (P = 0.06) (M: 1.65 ± 0.07; M + 1PGF: 1.74 ± 0.09; 2PGF: 1.54 ± 0.08; C: 1.54 ± 0.07 lambs/lambing) (P < 0.05), and a higher fecundity than the 2PGF group (P < 0.05) and the C group (P < 0.10) (M: 1.30 ± 0.09; M + 1PGF: 1.36 ± 0.11; 2PGF: 1.07 ± 0.10; C: 1.08 ± 0.09 lambs/ewe). Ewes implanted with melatonin had significantly higher prolificacy (1.69 ± 0.06 lambs/lambing) (P < 0.05) and fecundity (1.33 ± 0.07 lambs/ewe) (P = 0.01) than did ewes that did not receive melatonin (1.54 ± 0.04 and 1.08 ± 0.04, resp.). In conclusion, melatonin implants increased the number of lambs born per ewe in a late-autumn mating season, and the effect was greatest if it was given in combination with PGF2α administration at ram introduction.