Follicle Size Research Articles

Participation of the spleen in the neuroinflammation after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus: implications for epileptogenesis and epilepsy.

Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affects millions of individuals worldwide. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms leading to epileptogenesis, the process by which a normal brain develops epilepsy, remain elusive. We, here, explored the immune system and spleen responses triggered by pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE) focusing on their role in the epileptogenesis that follows SE. Initial examination of spleen histopathology revealed transient disorganization of white pulp, in animals subjected to SE. This disorganization, attributed to immune activation, peaked at 1-day post-SE (1DPSE) but returned to control levels at 3DPSE. Alterations in peripheral blood lymphocyte populations, demonstrated a decrease following SE, accompanied by a reduction in CD3+ T-lymphocytes. Further investigations uncovered an increased abundance of T-lymphocytes in the piriform cortex and choroid plexus at 3DPSE, suggesting a specific mobilization toward the Central Nervous System. Notably, splenectomy mitigated brain reactive astrogliosis, neuroinflammation, and macrophage infiltration post-SE, particularly in the hippocampus and piriform cortex. Additionally, splenectomized animals exhibited reduced lymphatic follicle size in the deep cervical lymph nodes. Most significantly, splenectomy correlated with improved neuronal survival, substantiated by decreased neuronal loss and reduced degenerating neurons in the piriform cortex and hippocampal CA2-3 post-SE. Overall, these findings underscore the pivotal role of the spleen in orchestrating immune responses and neuroinflammation following pilocarpine-induced SE, implicating the peripheral immune system as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating neuronal degeneration in epilepsy.

Factors defining developmental competence of bovine oocytes collected for in vitro embryo production†.

Despite the currently relatively low effectiveness of producing bovine embryos in vitro, there is a growing interest in applying this laboratory method in the field of reproduction. Many aspects of the procedure need to be improved. One of the main problems is the inferior developmental competence of in vitro matured oocytes that are collected using the ovum pick-up method. The mechanisms of oocyte capacitation and maturation, as well as the in vivo conditions in which they grow and mature, should be carefully analyzed. A deliberate application of the identified mechanisms and beneficial factors affecting the in vitro procedures seems to be essential for achieving higher developmental competence of the oocytes that are subjected to fertilization. The results may be improved by developing and employing a laboratory maturation protocol that corresponds with appropriate preparation of donors before the ovum pick-up, an optimized hormonal treatment program, the appropriate size of ovarian follicles at the time of aspiration, and a fine-tuned coasting period.

Agarose-based 3D culture improved the developmental competence of oocyte-granulosa complex isolated from porcine preantral follicle

Various models have been established to culture whole follicles of the Preantral stage; however, the process remains inefficient and is an ongoing challenge formation. It is reported that oocyte-cumulus-granulosa complexes (OCGCs) isolated from Early Antral follicles (EAFs) undergo in vitro growth (IVG) and acquire meiotic competence in some animals. However, IVG for the oocyte-granulosa complexes (OGCs) from Preantral Follicles (PAFs) has not been firmly established.The present study indicated that the use of a modified medium with Ascorbic Acid (50 μM) facilitated granulosa cell proliferation, promoted cumulus cell differentiations, and increased antrum formation for the OGCs isolated from PAFs (0.3–0.4 mm). However, the two-dimensional 96-well plate system (2D) experienced smaller size follicles and could not prolong more than 10 days of IVG. Another method is to use an Agarose matrix 3D system to provide a soft, non-adhesive base that supports the IVG of OGCs isolated from PAFs and promotes cell proliferation, antrum formation, and maintenance for 14 days. OGCs that were grown using this method retained their spherical morphology, which in turn helped to attain healthy granulosa cells and maintain their connection with oocytes, in addition, these oocytes significantly increased diameter and lipid content, indicating developmental competence. Our result indicated that the OGCs from PAFs after IVG undergo a change in chromatin morphology and expression of acetylation of histone H3 at lysine 9 (Ac–H3-K9) and methylation of histone H3 at lysine 4 (Me–H3–K4), similar to the in vivo oocytes isolated from the ovary. Likewise, IVG oocytes cultured for maturation showed full cumulus expansion and reached mature oocytes. Furthermore, after in vitro maturation, IVG oocytes underwent the first cleavage following parthenogenetic activation. In conclusion, while most studies used whole follicles from the Preantral stage for IVG, our research finding was the first to reveal that oocytes isolated from the final stage of PAFs can migrate out of the follicle and undergo IVG under suitable conditions.

Effects of short and long – term nutrition and progesterone supplementation on the success of fixed – time artificial insemination in the ewe

The success of fixed - time artificial insemination (AI) in the ewe is variable due to poor synchrony of estrus. We examined the effects of long-term nutrition (LTN; low, medium, high - 6 months), short-term nutrition (STN; 1.0 M, 1.5 M – 14 days) and progesterone supplementation (P; single pessary, replacement on Day 9) on synchrony and reproductive outcomes. High LTN advanced (P < 0.05) estrus, increased (P = 0.06) pregnancy (range 71.1 – 81.1%) and improved (P < 0.01) litter size (range 1.30 – 1.50). STN increased (P < 0.05) pregnancy (79.0 versus 72.3%) but not litter size or timing of estrus. A LTN x STN interaction (P < 0.01) for time of estrus indicates that the effects of LTN were moderated by STN depending on the level of LTN. Pessary replacement delayed (P < 0.05) the onset of estrus, improved synchrony but did not affect pregnancy or litter size. High LTN increased (P < 0.05) the number of large (≥ 3.8 mm) and medium - size follicles (2.0 – 3.7 mm) but the diameter of large follicles tended to be reduced (P = 0.08) on Day 12. STN did not affect follicle number or size whilst P reduced (P < 0.05) the diameter of large follicles on Day 12 (4.83 versus 5.10 mm) and increased the number of medium – size follicles (3.56 versus 2.74 mm). In conclusion, both LTN and STN are major sources of variability in AI programs whilst pessary replacement has potential to reduce variability.

Melatonin's effect on hair follicles in a goat (Capra hircus) animal model.

Melatonin can treat androgenetic alopecia in males. Goats can be used as animal models to study melatonin treatment for human alopecia. In this study, a meta-analysis of melatonin's effects on goat hair follicles was pursued. Literature from the last 20 years was searched in Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and PubMed. Melatonin's effect on goat hair follicles and litter size were performed through a traditional meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. A network meta-analysis used data from oocyte development to blastocyst. The hair follicle genes regulated by melatonin performed KEGG and PPI. We hypothesized that there are differences in melatonin receptors between different goats, and therefore completed melatonin receptor 1A homology modelling and molecular docking. The results showed that melatonin did not affect goat primary follicle or litter size. However, there was a positive correlation with secondary follicle growth. The goat melatonin receptor 1A SNPs influence melatonin's functioning. The wild type gene defect MR1 is a very valuable animal model. Future studies should focus on the relationship between goat SNPs and the effect of embedded melatonin. This study will provide theoretical guidance for the cashmere industry and will be informative for human alopecia research.

65 Testing the effects of rigid encapsulations on bovine primordial follicle quiescence versus growth

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: There is an interest in developing a bioprosthetic ovary for ovarian tissue transplantation. The properties of the ovarian extracellular matrix need to be better understood in order to replicate the human ovary. We tested the effects of an encapsulating hydrogel at different rigidities on bovine primordial follicle activation, growth, and survival. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Bovine primordial follicles were isolated from ovarian cortex. A mean of 9.9 follicles (range 3-24) were encapsulated per bead in either 1% or 5 % alginate across 4 experiments. The encapsulated follicles were subsequently crosslinked in a calcium sulfate solution. Follicles were then cultured for 8 days with light microscopy imaging taken every other day along with media exchanges. Follicles were then examined using immunofluorescence. Growth and survival curves were constructed and all statistical analyses were performed using Graph Pad Prism 9. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: A total of 372 follicles were encapsulated across 32 beads (16 in 1% alginate and 16 in 5% alginate). There were no differences in initial follicle size between the two conditions (33.53 µm vs. 32.45 µm, p=0.47). At the end of 8 days, there was no difference between follicle size (59.55 vs. 56.06, p=0.48). Additionally, there was no difference in survival between 1% and 5% alginate encapsulation (57.75% vs. 52.43%. p=0.40). Immunofluorescence is being performed on encapsulated follicles to confirm the presence of DDX4, a molecular marker of oocytes, after 8 days in culture. Additional encapsulated follicles have also been submitted for histologic sectioning and hematoxylin and eosin staining to better characterize the viability and health of these follicles after 8 days in culture. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: There was no significant difference in growth or survival between primordial follicles cultured in 1% or 5% alginate gels. Immunofluorescent analysis confirmed the presence of viable follicles at the end of 8 days of culture. Future work needs to further explore how factors in the ovarian extracellular matrix impact follicle maintenance and growth.

Moringa oleifera extract affects the diameter of the Graafian follicles in female Mus musculus

HIGHLIGHTS This study unveils a dose-dependent relationship between Moringa leaf extract and increased Graafian follicle size in female mice. The significant positive effect of Moringa leaf extract on Graafian follicles suggests promising implications for fertility interventions, offering hope for individuals seeking natural treatment to address infertility challenges. ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of Moringa leaf extract (Moringa oleifera Lam.) on the diameter of Graafian follicles in female mice (Mus musculus). Materials and Methods: This study used experimental design, employing a cohort of 24 female mice of 20-25 grams in weight, aged between 2-3 months, and in good health. These subjects were divided into three treatment groups and subjected to oral doses of Moringa leaf extract at 300 mg/kg BW, 400 mg/kg BW, and 500 mg/kg BW over a 14-day period. The study procedures involved the preparation of the experimental animals, preparation of Moringa leaf extract, treatments administration, and the preparation of histological specimens. Subsequently, the diameters of Graafian follicles within each treatment group were measured. Data analysis were performed using the ANOVA test (p &lt;0.05) followed with the Least Significance Difference (LSD) test utilizing the IBM SPSS software. Results: There were variations in Graafian follicle diameters across the experimental groups. The average diameters were 180.944 µm in the control group, 239.942 µm in treatment group 1, 315.006 µm in treatment group 2, and 396.650 µm in treatment group 3. This indicated that dose administration starting from 300 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg had an effect on the size of the follicle and antrum diameter. The number of granulosa cells was found to increase, as well as the size of the ovum. Conclusion: Moringa leaf extract in different doses has a significant positive effect on increasing the diameter of the Graafian follicles in female mice.

The pFSH dose affects the efficiency of in vivo embryo production in Santa Inês ewes

This study compared the follicular growth, superovulatory response, and in vivo embryo production after administering two doses of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH) in Santa Inês ewes. The estrous cycle of 36 multiparous ewes was synchronized with the Day 0 protocol and superovulated with 133 mg (G133, n=18) or 200 mg (G200, n=18) of pFSH. Ultrasonographic evaluations of the ovaries were performed, ewes were mated and submitted to non-surgical embryo recovery. Viable blastocysts were stained with Nile Red and Hoechst. The G200 had a greater number of medium and large follicles, as well as a larger size of the third largest follicle. A total of 97.2% (35/36) of the ewes came into estrus and it was possible to transpose cervix in 80.6% (29/36). There were no effects of treatments in the response to superovulation, the proportion of ewes in which was possible to transpose the cervix, the number of corpora lutea, the number of anovulatory follicles, the proportion of ewes flushed with at least one recovered structure, number of recovered structures, number of viable embryos, viability rate, and recovery rate. The G200 ewes were in estrus for a longer period of time than the G133 ewes (54.0 ± 4.5 h vs. 40.3 ± 3.6 h) and produced more freezable embryos (6.5 ± 1.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.7) than G133. Both doses promoted an efficient superovulatory response and did not affect embryonic lipid accumulation. The dose of 200 mg of pFSH showed greater potential to increase the superovulatory response, as it increased follicular recruitment and the recovery of freezable embryos.

Comparison of Letrozole vs Clomiphene Citrate for induction of ovulation in polycystic ovarian syndromeAn Iraqi study

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder in young women and manifests as infertility in 55-75%. Clomiphene citrate is still the standard drug for inducing or augmenting ovulation. It is not, however, equally successful in all situations. L Metromile is an aromatase inhibitor and is one of the alternative treatments to Clomiphene. This study aims to answer the question (does letrozole add anything to the art Of ovulation induction and represent a real alternative to Clomiphene? To compare the effects of letrozole (5 mg) and clomiphene citrate (100 mg) for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. A prospective randomized trial study was done at Tikrit Teaching Hospital. The study comprised a total of 40 infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome; Patients were randomized to treatment with 5 mg Of letrozole daily (20 patients) or 100 mg of clomiphene citrate daily (20 patients) for 5 days starting on day 3 Of menses. Timed intercourse was advised 24-36 hours after hCG injection. Then, both groups were followed by sonography every other day from day 10 Of the menstrual cycle for the number and size Of follicles and endometrial thickness were assessed. The study revealed that the C . C group induce ovum with size &gt; 18mm 12 (60%) versus 17 (85%) among Letrzol group, while &lt; 18mm in about 8 C.C group as compared with 3 (15%) in Letrzol group, this relation was statistically not significant. The study revealed that C.C group induce &gt; 1 follicle 8 (40%) versus 2 (10%) among Letrzol group, while I follicle induced in about 6 (30%) in C.C group as compared with 16 (80%) in Letrzol group, this relation was statistically significant. The endometrium thickness was 4-5 mm in 14 (70%) among C.C group, and 17 (85%) in Letrzol group , while uterine thickness was 6-9.5mm in 6 (30%) among C.C group and 3 (15%) among Letrzol group, this relation was statistically not significant, study conclude that Letrozole should be considered as first line drug to get away from clomiphene's unwanted effects like thin endometrium and multifolliculogesis.

Effect of follicle size on pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing first letrozole-intrauterine insemination.

Letrozole has been proven to be an effective method for inducing ovulation. However, littleattentionhasbeenpaidto whether the lead follicle size will affect the success rate of intrauterine insemination (IUI) with ovulation induction with alone letrozole. Therefore, we hope to investigate the effect of dominant follicle size on pregnancy outcomes on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) day of the first letrozole-IUI. A retrospective cohort study design was employed. We included patients with anovulation or unexplained infertility undergoing first IUI treatment with letrozole for ovarian stimulation. According to the dominantfolliclesize measured on the day of hCG trigger, patients were divided into six groups (≤ 18mm, 18.1-19.0mm, 19.1-20.0mm, 20.1-21.0mm, 21.1-22.0mm, > 22mm). Logistic models were used for estimating the odds ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence interval (CIs) for achieving aclinicalpregnancyor alivebirth. A restricted cubic spline was drawn to explore the nonlinear relationship between follicle size and IUI outcomes. A total of 763 patients underwent first letrozole-IUI cycles in our study. Fisherexact test showed significant differences among the six follicle-size groups in the rates of pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth (P < 0.05 in each group). After adjusting the potential confounding factors, compared with the follicles ≤ 18mm in diameter group, 19.1-20.0mm, 20.1-21.0mm groups were 2.3 or 2.56 times more likely to get live birth [adjusted OR = 2.34, 95%CI (1.25-4.39); adjusted OR = 2.56, 95% CI (1.30-5.06)]. A restricted cubic spline showed an invertedU-shaped relationship between the size of dominant follicles and pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate, and the optimal follicle size range on the day of hCG trigger was 19.1-21.0mm. When the E2 level on the day of hCG trigger was low than 200pg/mL, the clinical pregnancy rates of 19.1-20.0mm, 20.1-21.0mm groups were still the highest. The optimal dominant follicle size was between 19.1 and 21.0mm in hCG-triggered letrozole-IUI cycles. Either too large or too small follicles may lead to a decrease in pregnancy rate. Using follicle size as a predicator of pregnancy outcomes is more meaningful when estrogen on the day of hCG trigger is less than 200pg/ml.

Effect of protected fatty acid supplementation on ovarian activity, reproductive hormone profiles and reproduction of Barki ewes under semiarid conditions

Abstract. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the impact of dietary supplementation with rumen-protected fat (calcium soaps of fatty acids, CSFA) and/or hormonal superovulation using equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on ovarian activity, changes in ovarian hormones, and reproductive performance in Barki ewes under semiarid conditions. A total of 39 non-pregnant Barki ewes, with an average body weight of 34.7 ± 0.25 kg and an average age of 3–4 years, were divided into four groups. The first group (9 ewes) served as the control, while the second group (10 ewes) received double doses of PGF2α, administered 9 d apart, and was superovulated with 600 IU (international unit) eCG. The third group (10 ewes) was supplemented with 30 g per head per day of rumen-protected fat. The fourth group (10 ewes) underwent the same superovulation protocol as the second group and was also supplemented with 30 g per head per day of rumen-protected fat. All the ewes were fed a basal diet. Ovarian activity was detected using ultrasonography during the estrus phase in all the groups, after which all the ewes were naturally bred with Barki rams. The results demonstrated significant (P&lt;0.05) increases in estradiol 17-β (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels in the treated groups compared to the control group. Ewes in all the treated groups exhibited large follicles, with an overall mean diameter (≥5 mm) significantly higher than that of ewes in the control group. Although there were no significant differences between the treated and control groups, the ewes treated with CSFA and/or the eCG hormone showed tendencies to improve the reproductive traits of Barki ewes. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrated a positive effect of CSFA alone or in combination with an estrous synchronization protocol on ovarian activity in Barki ewes, as indicated by the number and size of follicles and the presence of large-sized follicles.

Conception rate according to the size and location of corpus luteum and coexistent follicle before embryo transfer in Hanwoo

Conception rate according to the size and location of corpus luteum and coexistent follicle before embryo transfer in Hanwoo

52 Evaluation of linseed meal on ovarian follicular development after synchronization in preovulatory small ruminants during seasonal anestrus

Abstract Seasonal estrous of small ruminants can hinder overall reproductive efficiency of holistic management strategies involving sheep and goats. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of increased melatonin containing feed ingredients on ovarian function during seasonal anestrus. Ovarian follicle number and follicle sizes were evaluated on Spanish × Boer cross does and Rambouillet ewes amounts of lineseed meal in the treatment diet (P30DIET) or an isocoloric and isonitrogenous control diet (CON). The P30DIET contained 2.5% linseed meal which contained increased melatonin (Manchester et al. 2000). At d -18 ewes and does were stratified by age into treatment groups and the P30DIET and CON diets were supplemented (0.91 kg and 0.68 kg per animal per day for sheep and goats, respectively). Synchronization protocols were administered at d 0 for both groups and ovarian ultrasound measures were collected 48 h after the removal of the controlled internal drug release device (CIDR). Mixed model procedures of SAS were used to analyze the number of dominant follicles that were present following the synchronization protocols. The number of dominant follicles observed in the P30DIET goats was significantly greater than the CON consuming goats (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Least Squares Means estimates (LSMEANS) in the P30DIET were 1.5 ± 0.20 as compared with CON goats (0.91 ± .21). These data suggest that flushing small ruminants with greater linseed meal during the seasonal anestrus period can increase the number of dominant follicles therefore implying an improvement in reproductive efficiency in holistic management strategies of small ruminants.

130 Effect of an appeasing substance application on growth, stress, handling quality and reproduction of Bos indicus beef heifers synchronized to fixed-time AI

Abstract This experiment evaluated the effects of an analogue of bovine appeasing substance (BAS) on growth, stress, handling quality, and reproduction of Nellore heifers. Twenty-nine heifers [body condition score (BCS) = 4.84 ± 0.13; body weight (BW) = 371 ± 0.77 kg; 23 ± 2 months of age)] were assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) Saline solution (0.9 NaCl; n = 14) or BAS (Secure Cattle, IRSEA Group, Quartier Salignan, France; n = 15). Both solutions were applied topically in the nuchal skin area (5 mL/heifers) at the beginning (d -9) of the fixed-time artificial insemination protocol (FTAI). Heifers were allocated in two different pastures according to the treatment (one pasture per treatment) for 15 d (time of action of BAS) and then combined in a single group (both treatments in the same pasture). Heifers were inseminated on d 0, and BW and BCS were collected on d -9 and 40. The temperament in the squeeze chute (entry and exit scores; scale 1 – 3; chute score; scale 1 – 5; greater values mean more reactive heifers) and blood samples were collected on d -9, 0, 7, 14 and 30. The percentual of aggression, accident, and dirtiness in the perineal region were evaluated on d 0 along with time to inseminate, estrus expression scores (scale 1 – 3; 1 = no expression, 2 = low expression, 3 = greater expression), and dominant follicle size. The corpus luteum size was measured on d 7 and 14, and the pregnancy and embryo size on d 40. The BAS vs. Saline-treated heifers tended to have greater BW change (23.6 vs. 20.8 ± 1.03 kg; P = 0.09) and had greater BCS change (0.05 vs. -0.21 ± 0.05; P &amp;lt; 0.01). The BAS vs. Saline-treated heifers tended to have lesser entry scores (1.42 vs. 1.67 ± 0.09; P = 0.09) and percentual of dirtiness in the perineal region (48.3 vs. 71.1 ± 8.67 %; P = 0.06), and no effects of treatment were detected (P ≥ 0.39) for chute score, exit score, aggression, accident and time to inseminate. The BAS vs. Saline-treated heifers had greater estrus scores (2.00 vs. 1.27 ± 0.21; P = 0.03), and no effects were detected (P ≥ 0.11) for ovarian variables, pregnancy rate, and conceptus size. Furthermore, no treatment effects were detected (P ≥ 0.25) for serum concentration of cortisol and plasma concentration of haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, and progesterone. Therefore, BAS application at the beginning of the FTAI protocol could decrease the temperament and dirtiness in the perineal region and increase the growth and estrus expression of beef heifers.

The effectiveness of low-dose of eCG in timed AI Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers.

This study evaluated the efficacy of the administration of different doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG; 0 IU, 200 IU, or 300 IU) at the time of the progesterone device removal in 2-year-old Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers synchronized for fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI). On day 0 (D0), a total of 398 heifers received 2 mg of oestradiol benzoate i.m., 0.53 mg of cloprostenol i.m., and an eight-day previously used (second use) intravaginal device containing 1 g of progesterone (P4). Eight days later (D8), simultaneous with the P4 device removal, 0.5 mg of oestradiol cypionate i.m. and 0.53 mg of cloprostenol i.m. were administered. At the same time, heifers were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments: G-0 IU (n = 141; no eCG treatment), G-200 IU (n = 132; treated with 200 IU of eCG), and G-300 IU (n = 125; treated with 300 IU of eCG). FTAI was performed 48 h after the P4 device removal (D10). Ultrasonographic evaluations were performed at D0, D10, and D17. Heifers were scanned to measure the size of the largest follicle (LF), the presence, number, and size of the corpus luteum (CL), and the ovulation rate. Subsequently, at D40, the heifers underwent scanning to determine the pregnancy rate and identify any twin pregnancies. Additionally, at D70, scans were performed to assess pregnancy loss (PG). Data were analysed by orthogonal contrasts [C1 (eCG effect): control x (200 IU + 300 IU) and C2 (eCG dose effect): 200 IU × 300 IU]. On D0, CL presence was similar between the groups [G-0 IU = 65.2% (92/141), G-200 IU = 55.3% (73/132), and G-300 IU = 63.2% (79/125); p = .16]. No interactions between the presence of CL on D0 and eCG treatment were found for any of the variables (p > .05). The diameter of the LF at FTAI (D10) was not influenced by eCG treatment (p = .22) or eCG dose (p = .18). However, treatment with eCG increased the diameter of the CL at D17 (G-0 IU = 15.7 ± 0.3 mmb , G-200 IU = 16.6 ± 0.2 mma , and G-300 IU = 16.6 ± 0.3 mma ; p = .001), regardless of the dose used (p = .94). The ovulation rate was higher in heifers treated with eCG [G-0 IU = 79.4%b (112/141), G-200 IU = 90.2%a (119/132), and G-300 IU = 93.6%a (117/125); p = .002], but there was no effect of eCG dose (p = .36). Pregnancy per AI (P/AI) on D40 [G-0 IU = 32.6%b (46/141), G-200 IU = 42.4%a (56/132), and G-300 IU = 42.4%a (53/125); P = 0.05] and D70 [G-0 IU = 29.1%b (41/141), G-200 IU = 40.9%a (54/132), and G-300 IU = 40.8%a (51/125); p = .02] were higher on heifers that received eCG; however, no dose effect was observed for P/AI on D40 (p = .89) nor D70 (p = .98). Pregnancy loss between D40 and D70 tended to reduce (p = .07) in eCG-treated heifers without dose effect (p = .91). Heifers with CL at D0 presented a greater follicle diameter (LF) on D10 (With CL = 11.2 ± 0.2 mm and Without CL = 10.2 ± 0.2 mm; p = .05), CL diameter on D17 (With CL = 15.8 ± 0.03 mm and Without CL = 11.8 ± 0.6 mm; p = .01), and ovulation rate [With CL = 95.5% (233/244) and Without CL = 74.7% (115/154); p = .01]. However, no difference in pregnancy rate at D40 (p = .52) and D70 (p = .84) was found. In conclusion, eCG treatment increases ovulation and pregnancy rates of heifers submitted to a FTAI protocol. Furthermore, eCG treatment increases the diameter of the CL after FTAI and reduces pregnancy losses. No dose effect was observed, suggesting Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers respond to 200 IU of eCG treatment for FTAI.

Sexual Cycle of the Mediterranean Pond Turtle, &lt;i&gt;Mauremys leprosa&lt;/i&gt; (Testudines: Geoemydidae) in West Central Morocco

We studied the reproductive cycle of male and female Mauremys leprosa in central Morocco. The cycle for males starts in the spring with warming temperatures and the beginning of the dry-season with testicular enlargement and a decrease in epididimydes size accompanied by sperm production. The epididymis contains sperm mainly in winter, spring and summer. Females exhibited follicular enlargement from November reaching a peak in February when a maximum follicle size of 38.5 mm was observed. Ovulation appears to begin in April or May and oviductal eggs were present in our samples from April – July. Suspected mating activity occurred from January – March when environmental temperatures were lowest and the wet-season peaked. Sexual activity was coincident with the onset of maximum storage of sperm in the epididymis. The overall reproductive cycle of this species is similar to that of other Temperate Zone turtles with the exception that mating occurs in the winter, not in the spring and fall. Winter mating may be a response to the wet-season Mediterranean climates. Rain connects isolated pools in ephemeral rivers and streams in Morocco that form during the dry season, thus providing greater opportunities for access to mates.

Correlation of Metabolic and Ionic Components of Follicular Fluid with Estrogen Concentration

This study was aimed to assess the correlation between the metabolic and ionic composition of ovarian follicular fluid and its relationship to the concentration of estrogen and prolactin hormones as the follicle size changes in the local female cows. Ovaries were collected (80 ovaries) from non- pregnant 40 adult females cow at Hilla slaughterhouse at Babil province. The gathered ovaries were transported to the laboratory within two hours. Follicular fluid was pulled from small (2-5 mm) follicles, medium (6-10 mm), and large (11-20 mm) follicles, then it stored at 5 ° C until assayed. Follicular fluid samples were analyzed for metabolites composition of (cholesterol, total protein, and glucose), and ionic composition (calcium, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, zinc) ,and hormone concentration ( estrogen and prolactin). The results of the study showed that the total protein and glucose concentrations were increased significantly(p&gt; 05.0) with increased of follicle size. The study also showed the calcium, copper, and phosphorus concentration were increased significantly(p&gt; 05.0) with changes of follicular size, as well as the estrogen concentration was significantly increased (p &gt; 05.0) With increased follicular size. A significantly (p&gt; 05.0) correlation was found between both magnesium, zinc ions, and estrogen hormone.

Comparative clinical evaluation of Jeevantyadi Yamaka Matra Basti and Uttara Basti in Bandhyatva (Anovulation)

Introduction: Infertility is presently a leading and longstanding gynaecological issue affecting approximately 15% of the couples in reproductive age group around the globe while 10-15% in Indian population. Ovulatory dysfunctions form the major cause of female infertility, out of which Anovulation accounts for 40%. Anovulation can be interpreted as Abeejotsarga or Abeejata. Panchakarma plays an important role in the management of Infertility. Thus, the present study aimed at evaluating the ovulation inducing effect of Jeevantyadi Yamaka through Matra Basti and Uttara Basti. Methodology: The study was conducted on 40 female subjects, diagnosed of anovulation with either primary or secondary infertility, fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly allocated into two groups with 20 subjects in each. But only 33 patients completed the trial with 18 patients in Group A and 15 patients in Group B. Group A received Jeevantyadi Yamaka Matra Basti while Group B were administered with Jeevantyadi Yamaka Uttara Basti for a period of three menstrual cycles. The assessment of results was done by follicular study conducted from 9th day of menstrual cycle till 20th day of every cycle for consecutive three cycles. Results: Both the groups showed significant improvement in assessment parameters. Although the number of patients were less in Group B than Group A but Ovulation was observed in 5.5% of subjects in Group A and 40% of subjects in Group B. Discussion: Jeevantyadi Yamaka Matra Basti and Uttara Basti both are equally effective in increasing the size of follicles and other assessment parameters. But in overall, Jeevantyadi Yamaka Uttara Basti was more effective in achieving Ovulation due to its local effect. As, this study was only for three months so no result was seen on Conception.

Factors affecting the efficiency of equine embryo transfer (EET) in polo mares under subtropical conditions of Pakistan.

Equine embryo transfer (EET) is a prominent technology in the equine breeding industry, and its efficacy is affected by a number of factors. The current study aimed to determine the effects of the breed of donor/recipient mares, estrus/ovulation induction treatment, cooled transportation of embryos, and synchrony between donor and recipient mares on the efficiency of the EET under subtropical conditions of Pakistan. A total of eighty-four (n = 84) Polo-playing donor mares (Argentino-polo = 41 and Anglo-Arab = 43) and seventy (n = 70) recipient mares (light breed = 26 and heavy breed = 44) were used for EET. The donor mares exhibiting natural estrus (n = 28) were detected by teaser a stallion, and corpus luteum (CL) having mares (n = 56) were treated with prostaglandin (150 μg of Cloprostenol) for estrus induction. The mares' follicular growth was monitored through ultrasonography until the dominant follicle's size reached 35 mm or more with a moderate to obvious uterine edema score. Afterward, the mares were treated either with GnRH, i.e., 50 μg of Lecirelin acetate (n = 41) or Ovusyn, i.e., 1500 IU hCG (n = 43). Insemination with chilled semen was performed 24 hours later. The embryos were collected non-surgically, 7 or 8 days after ovulation, from the donor mares. The collected embryos were transferred into the well-synchronized recipient mares as fresh (n = 44) or chilled (n = 26) embryos. The pregnancy after ET was checked through ultrasonography. Statistical analysis revealed that the embryo recovery rate (ERR) remained significantly higher (P<0.05) for the Prostaglandin (PG) treated group of donors as compared to the natural heat group of donors. The breed of donor mares, type of ovulatory treatment given, and day of embryo collection did not significantly (P>0.05) affect the ERR. There was no significant effect of the type (fresh vs chilled), classification, and stage of development of embryo on pregnancy outcomes (P>0.05). ET pregnancy rate was significantly affected by the breed of recipient mares and ovulation synchrony between donor and recipient mares (P<0.05). In conclusion, under the subtropical conditions of Pakistan, PG-based estrus induction of donor mares, breed of recipient mares, and ovulation synchrony between the donor and recipient mares had a substantial effect on the efficiency of EET.

Exploring AMH levels, homeostasis parameters, and ovarian primordial follicle activation in pubertal infected sheep on a high-protein diet

“Exploring AMH Levels, Homeostasis and Primordial Follicle Activation in Pubertal Infected Sheep on a High Protein Diet “.The first activation wave of ovarian primordial follicles is part of the onset of puberty and fertility. Abomasal helminth infection may cause an undesirable delay in puberty manifestation. Helminth-infected animals demand a higher amount of protein in their diet to repair the damage caused by the parasite in sheep's tissues, replenish the blood losses, and build the host's immune response. Helminths become resistant to drug therapy shortly after being exposed to a new treatment. Besides, there is the possibility of contamination by anthelmintic drugs in ovine products, possibly affecting human health and the environment. This study's objective was to evaluate if ovarian and clinical parameters can be improved by supplementing their diet with protein, offering a more sustainable management approach than relying on anthelmintic usage. We used a 2 × 2 factorial model where eighteen ewe lambs (Ovis aries) between 6 and 7 months old - born to the same ram - were fed one of two diet protein levels (12% or 19%). After 35 days on this diet, they were infected or left uninfected with 10,000 Haemonchus contortus L3 larvae. We evaluated Anti-Mullerian Hormone serum levels, blood cells and biochemical parameters at four different time points. Following 42 days of infection and 77 days on the diet, the lambs had their left ovaries removed, and we examined ovarian morphometrics through histological analysis. The groups Supplemented Protein-Infected(n = 5), Control Protein- Infected(n = 5), Supplemented Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) and Control Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) did not differ in their bodyweight gain. In the factorial ANOVA analysis examining the relationship between plasma protein, diet, and infection, the protein level of the diet showed significance (p = 0.02). Primordial follicle size varied with the interaction between diet and infection (p < 0.05), and oocyte size was affected by the level of protein in the diet (p = 0.047). Additionally, to understand how all homeostasis parameters relate to the primordial follicle and oocyte size, we applied an explanatory linear mixed model. In conclusion, serum AMH levels remained stable despite the infection and variations in diet protein levels, indicating its reliability as a marker for ovarian reserve in pubertal sheep. The number of blood cells, biochemical parameters, and primordial follicle activation were affected by both diet and infection.