Photonic-chip-on-tip: compound photonic devices fabricated on optical fibers.

Just like nanometer-scale conductive paths in an electronic chip at some point end up connected to macroscopic wires of the printed circuit board, photonic integrated circuits often need light in/out coupling from/to external devices, such as light sources or detectors. In the optical domain, these connections are challenging due to the scale mismatch and alignment precision required. At the same time, there is more than 24,500 µm2 of space available on two cleaved single mode optical fiber tips. We demonstrate that this space can be used to fabricate compound photonic assembly - Photonic-chip-on-tip - directly integrated with the fibers. As an example, we present a simple setup consisting of in- and out-coupling prisms, tapered waveguide, and a whispering gallery micro-resonator, all made in a single process with two-photon laser photolithography. Temperature sensing is demonstrated as an example of application. This approach to photonic circuit design intrinsically addresses the problems of scale mismatch, fiber alignment, light coupling, and packaging.

Expression of PTX3, HAS2 AND TNFAIP6 genes in relation to real-time proliferation of porcine endometrial luminal epithelial cells in primary cultivation model.

Endometrial cells undergo very specific changes associated with reproductive processes. Cells prepare for embryo development by increasing their volume. Then, if fertilization fails, endometrial cells are liable for apoptosis, preparing new cells that are ready for subsequent processes related to the possibility of embryo implantation and the development of pregnancy. PTX3 and TNFAIP6 are absent or reduced in cultured COCs, resulting in a functional change in COC in vitro. In this work, we want to check how PTX3, HAS2 and TNFAIP6 behave in luminal epithelium primary cell culture. Cells obtained during slaughter from porcine specimens were cultured primarily in vitro for 7 days. Their proliferation patterns were then analysed using RTCA, with the expression of genes of interest evaluated with the use of immunofluorescence and RT-qPCR. The results of these changes in the expression of the genes of interest were analysed on each of the seven days of the porcine luminal primary cell culture. Our study showed the increased level of PTX3, HAS2 and TN¬FAIP6 expression at the same hours of primary culture. Rt-qPCR showed a higher level of expression of the PTX3 gene in the first 72 h, at the end of the lag phase (in the phase of stasis in which the cells adapt to the new environment and often die). In contrast, TNFAIP6 expression increases about 96 hours when the cells are in the full log phase (logarithmic phase growth) and continue this trend in the plateau phase. We did not observe such drastic changes in the HAS2 expression pattern, which leads us to hypothesize that PTX3 and TNFAIP6 are designed to maintain a constant level of HAS2 in the cell throughout its lifetime. The obtained results could become a point of reference for further in vivo and clinical research.

Balance between epithelial and stromal marker expression and distribution in primary culture model of porcine endometrium during real-time cell proliferation..

The similarity between humans and pigs, when it comes to tissue morphology, makes Sus scrofa not only a good research model, but also a potential source of cells for tissue engineering. Cell samples obtained from the pig donor, could be influenced in vitro, in order to become a source of tissue material for xenotransplantation, reconstructive and regenerative medicine. Significant amounts of data point to especially major similarities in pig and human reproductive systems. Because of that, particular scientific focus is centered on research concerning porcine COCs, theca and granulosa cells in primary cultures. One of the aspects of the reproductive process, that is still largely undiscovered, is the interaction between preimplantation blastocyst and maternal uterine tissues. In this study, we used molecular analysis techniques, such as RT-qPCR and immunocytochemistry, to analyze the expression and distribution of cytokeratin 18 and panCytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 and vimentin in porcine luminal endometrial epithelial cells, coupled with analysis of their behavior in RTCA. The results have confirmed the presence of epithelial, as well as stromal cell markers in the cells, varying in levels at different stages of culture. They have also given insight into the modes of proliferation and differentiation of studied cells in in vitro culture, as well as providing additional proof for the possible mesenchymal transdifferentiation of epithelial cells.

Microfluidic versus molecular assays - different approaches in assessing oocyte developmental competence.

In recent years, molecular techniques have brought about new solutions that focus on the developmental capacity of female oocytes and reproductive performance in the mammalian species. The developmental potency is the ability of oocytes to reach the MII stage following the long stages of folliculo- and oogenesis. The main proteins involved in this process belong to the connexin (Cx) family, which are responsible for the formation of gap junction (GJC) connections between the female gamete and surrounding somatic cells. The Cx are involved in bi-directional transport of small molecules and are therefore responsible for correct oocyte-somatic cell nutrition, proliferation, and differentiation. However, the application of certain molecular techniques often leads to destabilization or destruction of the materials of interest, such as cells or whole tissues. Therefore, the applications of microfluidic methods, which are non-invasive and quantitative, give new opportunities to further this area of biomedical research. Microfluidic research is based on real-time experiments that allow for control and/ or observation of the results during each step. The purpose of this review is to present both positive and negative aspects of molecular-microfluidic methods while describing the role of connexins in oocyte developmental capacity.

The differentiation of mammalian ovarian granulosa cells – living in the shadow of cellular developmental capacity.

The mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs) promotes oocyte growth and development during long stages of folliculogenesis and oogenesis. Before ovulation, the follicle is formed by a variety of fully differentiated cell populations; cumulus cells (CCs) that tightly surround the female gamete, granulosa cells (GCs) and theca cells (TCs) which build the internal and external mass of the follicular wall. It is well documented that CCs surrounding the oocyte are necessary for resumption of meiosis and full maturation of the gamete. However, the role of the granulosa cells in acquisition of MII stage and/or full fertilization ability is not yet entirely known. In this article, we present an overview of mammalian oocytes and their relationship to the surrounding cumulus and granulosa cells. We also describe the processes of GCs differentiation and developmental capacity. Finally, we describe several markers of mammalian GCs, which could be used for positive identification of isolated cells. The developmental capacity of oocytes and surrounding somatic cells – a “fingerprint” of folliculogenesis and oogenesis.

Association between progesterone and estradiol-17beta treatment and protein expression of pgr and PGRMC1 in porcine luminal epithelial cells: a real-time cell proliferation approach.

The correct functionality (sensitivity and receptivity) of endometrial tissue is regulated by paracrine and endocrine pathways that activate several mediators or metabolic pathways and gene cascades. This study aimed to investigate the influence of E2 and P4 on progesterone receptor (PGR) and progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) protein expression in porcine luminal epithelial cells and their influence on the proliferation of these cells in real-time. Surface uterine luminal epithelial cells were removed using sterile surgical blades from uterine horns of ten crossbred anestrus gilts. Following treatment with collagenase I, cells were separated and transferred into 48-well E-Plates for use in a realtime cell analyzer (RTCA). The luminal epithelial cells were cultured in vitro (IVC) in standard DMEM cell culture medium and incubated with E2 (10 pg/ml, 40 pg/ml, 500 pg/ml) and P4 (10 ng/ml, 40 ng/ ml, 500 ng/ml). The cell proliferation index was analyzed after 0-240 h, 0-120 h, 120-240 h. After using the RTCA analysis we found increased proliferation of luminal epithelial cells after treatment of low doses of P4 (10 and 40 ng/ml), (P < 0.001). Higher doses of P4 led to decrease of proliferation (P < 0.001). Conversely, higher doses of E2 (500 pg/ml) increased the proliferation index as compared to low doses (10 pg/ml) and control (P < 0.001). Confocal microscopic observations revealed that higher concentrations of E2 upregulate the expression of both PGR and PGRMC1. Additionally, P4 used in lower concentrations stimulated the expression of these receptors, too. Our study presents a new influence of E2 and P4 on the expression of PGR and PGRMC1 and on the real-time proliferation of porcine luminal epithelial cells. The relationship between PGR or PGRMC1 expression and the proliferation of luminal epithelial cells may be influenced (up- or down regulated) by E2 or P4 in a steroid type- and dose-dependent manner.

Relationships between milk protein composition, milk protein variants, and cow fertility traits in Dutch Holstein-Friesian cattle.

Selective breeding can change milk protein composition to improve the manufacturing properties of milk. However, the effects of such breeding strategies on other economically important traits should be investigated before implementation. The objectives of this study were to examine the association between cow fertility traits and (1) milk protein composition and (2) milk protein variants (ß-lactoglobulin, ß-casein, κ-casein, and ß-κ-casein) in commercial Dutch Holstein-Friesian cattle. Data on 1,644 first-lactation cows were analyzed by fitting linear mixed models. Greater relative concentration of α(S1)-casein within total milk protein had a positive phenotypic relationship with nonreturn rates and calving rate after first insemination. Furthermore, results showed virtually no significant relationship between cow fertility and concentration of other milk proteins or milk protein variants. Results of this study can be used to assess the correlated effects of breeding for improved milk protein composition on reproduction, thereby allowing for better evaluation of breeding programs before implementation. Our findings suggest that selecting cows based on milk protein composition or milk protein variants for improved manufacturing properties would have no negative influence on reproductive performance.

Changes in the interleukin-1 and interleukin-2 generation in duodenal ulcer patients during cimetidine treatment.

The effect of cimetidine treatment on the generation of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) was studied in 11 duodenal ulcer patients. The results obtained were compared with those for untreated healthy subjects. The drug was administered intravenously in a dose of 200 mg four times a day for 8 days. The investigations were performed before, during and 1 wk after cimetidine therapy. IL-1 generation was determined by the ability of supernatants from 2-day cultured adherent cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide to enhance proliferation of PHA-stimulated mice thymocytes. IL-2 generation was determined by the ability of supernatants from 2-day cultured, PHA-stimulated mononuclear cells to proliferate autologous 17-day cultured T cells. In all ulcer patients IL-1 generation diminished during cimetidine treatment (P less than 0.005). It continued to decrease in 4 subjects and increased in the other 7 ones following drug withdrawal. All the values were higher than those in healthy controls. IL-2 activity in ulcer patients was similar to that in healthy subjects and it increased significantly in all ulcer patients following the onset of the treatment (P less than 0.005) and decreased nearly to the initial values 1 wk after termination of the treatment (P less than 0.005). The present studies indicate that cimetidine, a selective histamine H2-receptor antagonist, deeply changes mechanisms of immunoregulation in patients with duodenal peptic ulcer.

The effect of cimetidine treatment on suppressor T cells in duodenal ulcer patients.

Changes in the suppressor T-lymphocyte activity were studied in 11 patients with duodenal ulcer during treatment with cimetidine. The drug was administered intravenously in a dose of 200 mg four times a day for a fortnight. Suppressor T-cell activity was determined by the Shou et al. method using two-stage culture before treatment, after 4 days of the treatment, just before drug withdrawal, and 2 days and 2 wk after the treatment. Suppressor T-cell activity significantly decreased soon after starting the treatment, remained low throughout the treatment, and rapidly and significantly increased following drug withdrawal.

Effect of epinephrine, propranolol, and verapamil on the chemiluminescence of neutrophils in duodenal ulcer patients.

To answer the question whether beta-adrenergic receptor agonists or antagonists and calcium channel blocking agents affect activation of neutrophils in vivo, the chemiluminescence (CL) test was employed. The intensity of emitted photons was amplified by luminol. The effect of investigated agents was measured after stimulation of isolated peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) with opsonized zymosan particles. The investigations were performed on 9 duodenal ulcer patients, aged 19-23 years, after informed consent. Single subcutaneous dose of epinephrine (0.014 mg/kg) induced a marked increase in PMNL number and a moderate, but significant, decrease in CL 30 min after injection. Verapamil (0.15 mg/kg intravenously) diminished CL, propranolol (0.1 mg/kg intravenously) enhanced CL, but 150 min after injections CL was approaching the initial values. The obtained results suggest that the investigated compounds may modify the PMNL function in vivo.

Phagocytic and bactericidal activities of neutrophils in duodenal ulcer patients during cimetidine treatment.

Phagocytic and bactericidal activities of neutrophils relative to Staphylococcus aureus 209 P strain were studied in 16 duodenal ulcer patients who were intravenously administered cimetidine in doses of 4 X 200 mg for 8 days and in a group of untreated healthy subjects. The investigations were made before the treatment on the last day of cimetidine administration, and one week after drug withdrawal. The bactericidal activity of neutrophils was found to be higher in duodenal ulcer patients than in the healthy controls. Cimetidine does not have a significant effect on the phagocytic activity of neutrophils and it has a moderately inhibitory effect (p less than 0.05) on the bactericidal activity relative to the ingested intracellular bacteria. This shows that cimetidine may modify some of the neutrophil functions in duodenal ulcer patients.

Electrophysiologic effects of intravenous dipyridamole.

We evaluated the electrophysiologic effects of dipyridamole given intravenously to 24 patients during intracardiac electrophysiologic study. Electrophysiologic parameters were measured before and 5 minutes following infusion of 0.5 mg/kg of dipyridamole. The drug significantly shortened the sinus cycle length by 26 per cent (P less than 0.001), sinuatrial conduction time by 15 per cent (P less than 0.01), maximal sinus node recovery time by 21 per cent (P less than 0.001), atrial and atrioventricular nodal effective refractory period by 8 and by 11 per cent, respectively (both P less than 0.01), ventricular effective refractory period by 4 per cent (P less than 0.001), paced cycle length to atrioventricular nodal Mobitz type II block by 5 per cent (P = 0.046), and QT interval during sinus rhythm by 10 per cent (P less than 0.01). After dipyridamole, the PA interval increased by 16 per cent (P less than 0.001), the AH interval by 11 per cent (P less than 0.01), and the corrected QT interval by 5 per cent (P less than 0.01). During retrograde conduction we observed a shortening of the ventriculoatrial interval by 6 per cent (P = 0.036), retrograde atrioventricular nodal effective refractory period by 5 per cent (P less than 0.001), paced cycle length to atrioventricular nodal Wenckebach and atrioventricular nodal Mobitz type II block both by 8 per cent (P less than 0.01). We conclude that intravenous dipyridamole increases sinus node automaticity and reduces atrial, atrioventricular nodal and ventricular refractory periods, prolongs intra-atrial and atrioventricular nodal conduction, but does not produce any changes in His-Purkinje system conduction times.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Electrophysiologic effects of blocking and stimulating the opioid system in patients with unexplained heart palpitations.

The opioid system plays a role in the regulation of the cardiovascular system. Endogenic as well as egzogenic administration of opioids influences the heart rhythm. This work was undertaken in order to assess the influence of crossover activity of the heart opioid system on the heart conduction system in patients with various disturbances of rhythm having an efficient circulatory system and a normal 12-lead stationary ECG. Subjects were 20 patients (9 men and 11 women of mean age of 38.7 years) reporting sudden heart palpitations. They were subjected to invasive programmable electrophysiological studies (PES). Naloxone was administered intravenously to 10 patients. Pentazocine was administered in the same way. In the remaining 10 patients the order of drug administration was reversed. PES was done in the basic state and after the administration of each drug. Study results were subjected to statistical analysis with no-parameter Wilcoxon test assuming differences to be significant at p less than 0.05. Blocking of the opioid system resulted in significant lengthening of the sinoatrial (SACT), intra-atrial (PA), and atrioventricular node (AH) conduction times, while no changes were induced in conduction in the His-Purkinje system (HV) and automation of the sinus node. Naloxone lengthened the atrial (ERPA) and atrioventricular node (ERPA AVN) effective refractory periods. Stimulation of the opioid system resulted in decreases of the following values: SACT, PA, AH, ERPA, ERPA AVN, while no effect was exerted on the SNRT, HV, ERPV. Neither drug influenced the QRS time, although naloxone lengthened QTc period significantly. Opioids did not influence the time of conduction in concealed extranodal atrioventricular pathways.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Value of the analysis of left-ventricular systolic time intervals in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease provoked by intravenous infusion of isoproterenol]. / Wartosc analizy podokresów skurczu lewej komory w rozpoznawaniu niedokrwienia miesnia sercowego prowokowanego dozylnym wlewem izoproterenolu.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the value of analysis of left ventricular systolic intervals during Isuprel test in diagnosis of ischemic heart disease. 30 patients with ischemic heart disease without myocardial infarction in the past (group I) and after myocardial infarction (group II) as well as 15 healthy persons (group III) underwent the study. Electrocardiograms and polycardiograms were analyzed by means of Weissler's method. In patients with CAD during Isuprel test decrease of QS2I, LVETI, LVETI/S1S2 and increase of Q-1, ICT, PEPI, PEP/LVET were stated in comparison with healthy persons. Sensitivity of Isuprel test estimated by ST segment analysis was 80%, specificity 100%, predictive value for CAD confirmation 100% and for its exclusion 71.4%. Diagnostic value of Q-1, QS2I and LVETI intervals and PEP/LVET index did not statistically significantly differ from ST segment diagnostic value. Sensitivity of Isuprel test estimated by means of these intervals analysis was 63.3%, specificity 93.3-100%, predictive value for CAD confirmation 95-100%, and for its exclusion 56-57.7%. Analysis of left ventricular systolic intervals during Isuprel test is a valuable complement of an ECG examination.

[Changes in left-ventricular function in chronic congestive heart failure treated with digoxin, furosemide and vasodilators]. / Zmiany czynnosci lewej komory w przewleklej zastoinowej niewydolnosci serca leczonej digoksyna, furosemidem i wazodylatorami.

48 patients (62.8 +/- 9.1 yrs) with III or IV NYHa class congestive heart failure after 2-week therapy with digoxin (D) and furosemide (F) underwent two-dimensional echocardiographic examination to assess left ventricular function. Then in 25 patients (group I) DF and nifedipine (N) were given within 2 weeks, D, F, N and captopril (C) within 4 weeks and again D, F, N within 2 weeks. In 23 patients (group II) isosorbide dinitrate (S) was administered instead of nifedipine. 2-DE examination had been performed at the end of the each study stage. Optimal daily drug dose were: D-0.34 +/- 0.07 mg, F-40.7 +/- 12.5 mg, S-44.3 +/- 10.4 mg and 75.8 +/- 26.4 mg. Nifedipine and isosorbide dinitrate administrated with digoxin and furosemide did not improve left ventricular function in comparison with a standard therapy (DF). The best positive changes were observed in both groups during treatment with captopril. Ejection fraction by Teichholz increased from 42.9 +/- 15.0% during DF stage to 45.2 +/- 11.5% (DFNK stage) in group I (p less than 0.001) and from 35.3 +/- 10.5% to 36.4 +/- 10.4% in group II respectively (p greater than 0.01). Left ventricular systolic and diastolic internal diameters significantly decreased (p less than 0.05) whereas stroke volume and cardiac indices nonsignificantly increased (p greater than 0.05). Captopril with digoxine, furosemide and nifedipine caused significant hemodynamic improvement. Effect of captopril with nifedipine was greater that of captopril with isosorbide dinitrate.

[Effect of a single dose of captopril on left-ventricular function in patients with chronic congestive cardiomyopathy]. / Wplyw jednorazowej dawki kaptoprylu na czynnosc lewej komory u chorych na przewlekla zastoinowa niewydolnosc serca.

In 15 patients with mild, chronic congestive heart failure the effect of a single dose of captopril (25 mg/m2 b.s.) on heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as on left ventricular function was studied at rest and after a submaximal physical effort. Preejection period (PEP), left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and the contractility index PEP/LVET were polycardiographically determined++. Left ventricular end diastolic volume (DVol), and systolic volume (SVol), ejection fraction (EF), stroke volume index (SVI) and cardiac index (CI) were estimated using two-dimensional echocardiography. Obtained data indicate, that in patients with chronic, congestive heart failure, a single dose of captopril lowers blood pressure at rest without significant changes of hemodynamic parameters, but improves left ventricular function during physical effort.

[Evaluation of the effect of nifedipine in patients with chronic congestive heart failure]. / Ocena dzialania nifedypiny u chorych na przewlekla zastoinowa niewydolnosc serca.

18 patients with II NYHA class chronic congestive heart failure (CCHF) had been given nifedipine (Cordipin) 54.4 +/- 12.0 mg (day) for 6 weeks (group I). In 25 patients with III--IV NYHA class CCHF after 2-week optimal improvement of a clinical state with digoxine (D) and furosemide (F), nifedipine (N) had been added for 2 weeks/mean daily dose -- 40.8 +/- 12.8 mg (group II). Estimation of a left ventricular function using 2-DE and a submaximal effort tolerance as well as clinical examinations were carried out initially, after 2 and 6 weeks in group I, whereas in group II post D, F 2-week therapy and after next 2 weeks of combined D, F, N treatment. Nifedipine significantly increased ejection fraction from 44.2 +/- 13.0% to 49.0 +/- +/- 12.6% and decreased myocardial oxygen demand factor from 23.36 +/- 9.81 to 21.08 +/- 7.55 X 10(3) (p less than 0.05). Nonsignificant but marked increase of diuresis, cardiac and stroke indices as well as body weight loss were observed. Nifedipine addition to D and F neither improved nor deteriorated examined parameters in patients with III-IV NYHA class CCHF. Nifedipine did not also improve the submaximal exercise tolerance in both groups.

Concurrent oral administration of monensin and selenium to broiler chickens: effects on concentration of different elements in the liver.

Broiler chicks were kept on feeds amended by the addition of 240 mg monensin and 15 mg selenium with or without 200 mg vitamin E/kg. After 12 days, birds in different groups were orally administered three doses of 250 mg monensin and 5 mg selenium/kg body weight. In the second experiment, after four weeks of adaptation on amended feeds, similar groups were orally administered 40 mg monensin and 1 mg selenium/kg body weight on alternate days for four weeks. Monensin increased the liver iron level. Selenium increased the hepatic levels of selenium and iron while variable degrees of depression occurred in copper, zinc, manganese and magnesium levels. Concurrent administration of monensin and selenium significantly increased the liver selenium levels. A marked decrease in body weight and increased mortality were recorded due to concurrent administration of monensin and selenium.

[Effect of short submaximal stable-load exertion on blood serum insulin and human growth hormone concentration as well as on various biochemical and acid-base blood parameters in healthy individuals]. / Wplyw krótkotrwalego submaksymalnego wysilku fizycznego o stalej mocy na stezenie insuliny, hormonu wzrostu, niektórych parametrów biochemicznych krwi oraz na równowage kwasowo-zasadowa u osob zdrowych.

The studies on effect of short-term submaximal physiol exercise with stable load on blood serum concentrations of insulin, human growth hormone, free fatty acids, glucose and aminoacid nitrogen were carried out on 20 healthy men, aged 19--21 years. In addition, lactic and pyruvic acid concentrations and some parameters of capillary blood acid-base equilibrium were determined. It was found that short-term submaximal exercise with stable load caused the increase of HGH concentration and the decrease of IRI concentration. During such an exercise blood serum free fatty acid concentrations also decreased, while blood serum glucose and aminoacid nitrogen ones did not change significantly. Blood serum lactic and pyruvic acid concentrations and hydrogen ion concentration increased. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide partial pressure decreased and base excess increased. This pattern of changes indicates metabolic acidosis compensated partially by hyperventilation.