Abundance of selected genes implicated in testicular functions in Camelus dromedarius with high and low epididymal semen quality.

Studying testicular genes' expression may give key insights into precise regulation of its functions that influence epididymal sperm quality. The current study aimed to investigate the abundance of candidate genes involved in the regulation of testicular functions specially those regulate sperm function (PLA2G4D, SPP1, and CLUAP1), testicular steroidogenic function (ESR1 and AR), materials transport (AQP12B and LCN15), and defense mechanisms (DEFB110, GPX5, SOCS3, and IL6). Therefore, blood samples and testes with epididymis were collected from mature middle-aged (5-10 years) dromedary camels (n = 45) directly prior and after their slaughtering, respectively, during breeding season. Sera were evaluated for testosterone level and testicular biometry was measured with caliper. The epididymal tail semen was evaluated manually. Samples were distinguished based on testosterone level, testicular biometry, as well as epididymal semen features into high and low fertile groups. Total RNA was isolated from testicular tissues and gene expression was done using Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Results revealed that testosterone levels were significantly (P < 0.005) higher in camels with good semen quality than those of low quality. There was a significant (P < 0.0001) increase in testicular weight, length, width, thickness, and volume in high fertile than low fertile camels. PLA2G4D, SPP1, CLUAP1, ESR1, AR, AQP12B, LCN15, DEFB110, GPX5, and SOCS3 genes were upregulated (P < 0.001), and IL6 gene was downregulated (P < 0.01) in the testes of high fertile camels compared to the low fertile one. Thus, it could be concluded that examined genes might be valuable monitors of testicular functional status and fertility in dromedary camels.

Expression profile of viability and stress response genes as a result of resveratrol supplementation in vitrified and in vitro produced cattle embryos.

BACKGROUND: Resveratrol, a potent antioxidant, is known to induce the up-regulation of the internal antioxidant system. Therefore, it holds promise as a method to mitigate cryopreservation-induced injuries in bovine oocytes and embryos. This study aimed to (i) assess the enhancement in the quality of in vitro produced bovine embryos following resveratrol supplementation and (ii) monitor changes in the expression of genes associated with oxidative stress (GPX4, SOD, CPT2, NFE2L2), mitochondrial function (ATP5ME), endoplasmic reticulum function (ATF6), and embryo quality (OCT4, DNMT1, CASP3, ELOVL5). METHODS AND RESULTS: Three groups of in vitro bovine embryos were cultured with varying concentrations of resveratrol (0.01, 0.001, and 0.0001 µM), with a fourth group serving as a control. Following the vitrification process, embryos were categorized as either good or poor quality. Blastocysts were then preserved at - 80 °C for RNA isolation, followed by qRT-PCR analysis of selected genes. The low concentrations of resveratrol (0.001 µM, P < 0.05 and 0.0001 µM, P < 0.01) significantly improved the blastocyst rate compared to the control group. Moreover, the proportion of good quality vitrified embryos increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the groups treated with 0.001 and 0.0001 µM resveratrol compared to the control group. Analysis of gene expression showed a significant increase in OCT4 and DNMT1 transcripts in both good and poor-quality embryos treated with resveratrol compared to untreated embryos. Additionally, CASP3 expression was decreased in treated good embryos compared to control embryos. Furthermore, ELOVL5 and ATF6 transcripts were down-regulated in treated good embryos compared to the control group. Regarding antioxidant-related genes, GPX4, SOD, and CPT2 transcripts increased in the treated embryos, while NFE2L2 mRNA decreased in treated good embryos compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Resveratrol supplementation at low concentrations effectively mitigated oxidative stress and enhanced the cryotolerance of embryos by modulating the expression of genes involved in oxidative stress response.

A Cryptosporidium parvum vaccine candidate effect on immunohistochemical profiling of CD4+, CD8+, Caspase-3 and NF-κB in mice.

BACKGROUND: Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan parasite of medical and veterinary importance that causes neonatal diarrhea in many vertebrate hosts. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of an affinity-purified antigen as a C. parvum vaccine candidate using ileal and liver tissues of experimentally infected neonatal mice by immunohistochemical profiling and immune scoring of CD4+, CD8+, Caspase-3, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). This vaccine was prepared from the C. parvum oocysts antigen using immune affinity chromatography with cyanogen bromide-activated Sepharose-4B beads. METHODS: Thirty neonatal mice were divided into three groups (10 mice/group): (1) non-immunized non-infected, (2) non-immunized infected (using gastric tubes with a single dose of 1 × 105 of C. parvum oocysts in 250 µl PBS solution 1 h before a meal) and (3) immunized (twice with 40 µg/kg of purified C. parvum antigen at 2-week intervals and then infected with 1 × 105 C. parvum oocysts simultaneously with the second group). After euthanizing the animals on the 10th day, post-infection, their ileal and liver tissues were collected and prepared for immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining to detect CD4+, CD8+, Caspase-3, and NF-κB levels, which are indicators for T helper cells, cytotoxic T cells, apoptosis, and inflammation, respectively. RESULTS: The IHC results showed that CD4+, CD8+, Caspase-3, and NF-κB expression varied significantly (P < 0.001) in both organs in all the groups. We also recorded high CD4+ levels and low CD8+ expression in the non-immunized non-infected mice tissues, while the opposite was observed in the non-immunized infected mice tissues. In the immunized infected mice, the CD4+ level was higher than CD8 + in both organs. While the Caspase-3 levels were higher in the ileal tissue of non-immunized infected than immunized infected mice ileal tissues, the reverse was seen in the liver tissues of both groups. Furthermore, NF-κB expression was higher in the liver tissues of non-immunized infected mice than in immunized infected mice tissues. Therefore, the IHC results and immune-scoring program revealed a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the CD4+, CD8+, Caspase-3, and NF-κB expression levels in both ileal and liver tissues of all mice groups, which might be necessary for immunomodulation in these tissues. CONCLUSIONS: The improvement observed in the immunized infected mice suggests that this vaccine candidate might protect against cryptosporidiosis.

MALAT1 as a potential salivary biomarker in oral squamous cell carcinoma through targeting miRNA-124.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the long non-coding RNA "MALAT1" measured in the saliva of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and assess the salivary expression of microRNA-124, which MALAT1 targets. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty subjects were collected in a consecutive pattern and allocated into two groups. Group A included 20 patients with OSCC, while Group B included 20 healthy subjects. Salivary expression of MALAT1 and microRNA (miRNA)-124 was evaluated in the two study groups using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and correlated with histopathological examination of OSCC subjects. RESULTS: OSCC yielded a statistically significant higher expression of MALAT1 than healthy controls and a lower expression of miRNA-124 in OSCC than controls. There is a statistically significant inverse relationship between salivary MALAT1 and miRNA-124. Moreover, there is a statistically significant difference in the MALAT1 expression in saliva samples from metastatic cases compared with non-metastatic cases, as well as in patients with lymph node involvement compared with those without involvement. At a cut-off value of 2.24, salivary MALAT1 exhibited 95% sensitivity and 90% specificity in differentiating OSCC from healthy subjects. CONCLUSION: Salivary MALAT1 acts as a sponge for miRNA-124 and could be a potential salivary biomarker for OSCC.

Sleep and obstructive sleep apnea in women with infertility.

PURPOSE: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a common cause of infertility. Understanding predictors and outcomes of OSA in women with infertility may guide treatment. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was performed to assess OSA in women presenting to an infertility clinic using validated sleep questionnaires to assess sleep and fertility outcomes. An Infertile-C group (controls with male or tubal factors) and an Infertile-S group (unknown/other infertile causes) were analyzed to assess OSA risk and other sleep disorders (e.g., restless legs syndrome (RLS) and insomnia) with fertility outcomes (time to pregnancy, PCOS, irregular menstruation, and miscarriage). RESULTS: In 258 women, occurrences of OSA diagnosis (6%) and RLS (10%) were reported similar to women of child-bearing age in the general population. PCOS was unassociated with OSA risk. Predictors of OSA risk were BMI, insomnia symptoms, and sleep aid use. Obese women with high OSA risk were more likely to have other comorbidities (e.g., depression). In adjusted models, prior clinical OSA diagnosis was associated with miscarriage (odds ratio: 6.17 (1.24, 30.62), p = 0.026). RLS was associated with irregular menstruation (odds ratio: 3.73 (1.21, 11.53), p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS: Similar to other populations, women with infertility and OSA risk have more health comorbidities and higher BMI and may present with insomnia symptoms. While the data are limited, this study supports the potential associations of OSA and miscarriage. Further work is needed to evaluate OSA in female infertility.

Adenotonsillectomy for Snoring and Mild Sleep Apnea in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: The utility of adenotonsillectomy in children who have habitual snoring without frequent obstructive breathing events (mild sleep-disordered breathing [SDB]) is unknown. Objectives: To evaluate early adenotonsillectomy compared with watchful waiting and supportive care (watchful waiting) on neurodevelopmental, behavioral, health, and polysomnographic outcomes in children with mild SDB. Design, Setting, and Participants: Randomized clinical trial enrolling 459 children aged 3 to 12.9 years with snoring and an obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) less than 3 enrolled at 7 US academic sleep centers from June 29, 2016, to February 1, 2021, and followed up for 12 months. Intervention: Participants were randomized 1:1 to either early adenotonsillectomy (n = 231) or watchful waiting (n = 228). Main Outcomes and Measures: The 2 primary outcomes were changes from baseline to 12 months for caregiver-reported Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) Global Executive Composite (GEC) T score, a measure of executive function; and a computerized test of attention, the Go/No-go (GNG) test d-prime signal detection score, reflecting the probability of response to target vs nontarget stimuli. Twenty-two secondary outcomes included 12-month changes in neurodevelopmental, behavioral, quality of life, sleep, and health outcomes. Results: Of the 458 participants in the analyzed sample (231 adenotonsillectomy and 237 watchful waiting; mean age, 6.1 years; 230 female [50%]; 123 Black/African American [26.9%]; 75 Hispanic [16.3%]; median AHI, 0.5 [IQR, 0.2-1.1]), 394 children (86%) completed 12-month follow-up visits. There were no statistically significant differences in change from baseline between the 2 groups in executive function (BRIEF GEC T-scores: -3.1 for adenotonsillectomy vs -1.9 for watchful waiting; difference, -0.96 [95% CI, -2.66 to 0.74]) or attention (GNG d-prime scores: 0.2 for adenotonsillectomy vs 0.1 for watchful waiting; difference, 0.05 [95% CI, -0.18 to 0.27]) at 12 months. Behavioral problems, sleepiness, symptoms, and quality of life each improved more with adenotonsillectomy than with watchful waiting. Adenotonsillectomy was associated with a greater 12-month decline in systolic and diastolic blood pressure percentile levels (difference in changes, -9.02 [97% CI, -15.49 to -2.54] and -6.52 [97% CI, -11.59 to -1.45], respectively) and less progression of the AHI to greater than 3 events/h (1.3% of children in the adenotonsillectomy group compared with 13.2% in the watchful waiting group; difference, -11.2% [97% CI, -17.5% to -4.9%]). Six children (2.7%) experienced a serious adverse event associated with adenotonsillectomy. Conclusions: In children with mild SDB, adenotonsillectomy, compared with watchful waiting, did not significantly improve executive function or attention at 12 months. However, children with adenotonsillectomy had improved secondary outcomes, including behavior, symptoms, and quality of life and decreased blood pressure, at 12-month follow-up. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02562040.

Natural Products: A Dependable Source of Therapeutic Alternatives for Inflammatory Bowel Disease through Regulation of Tight Junctions.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract and mucosal layer and lead to intestinal damage and intestinal dysfunction. IBD is an inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract that significantly impacts public health development. Monoclonal antibodies and other synthetic medications are currently used to treat IBD, but they are suspected of producing serious side effects and causing a number of other problems with long-term use. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that organic macromolecules from plants and animals have an alleviating effect on IBD-related problems, and many of them are also capable of altering enzymatic function, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting the production of cytokines and release of proinflammatory transcriptional factors. Thus, in this paper, the natural products with potential anti-IBD activities and their mechanism of action were reviewed, with a focus on the protective effects of natural products on intestinal barrier integrity and the regulation of tight junction protein expression and remodeling. In conclusion, the insights provided in the present review will be useful for further exploration and development of natural products for the treatment of IBD.

Post-COVID-19 related osteonecrosis of the jaw (PC-RONJ): an alarming morbidity in COVID-19 surviving patients.

PURPOSE: The recent coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic mainly affects the respiratory system; however, several oral and maxillofacial post-COVID-19 complications have also been observed. This series reports the growing number of osteonecrosis cases associated with post-COVID-19 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective, multi-center case series that reports cases with maxillary osteonecrosis after various periods of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the period between January and August 2021 based on the PROCESS guidelines. RESULTS: Twelve cases were reported with post-COVID-19 manifestation of spontaneous osteonecrosis of the maxillary jaw. Five patients were hospitalized during COVID-19 management and all of the twelve cases had at least one systematic Co-morbidity, and undertake corticosteroids prescription based on the COVID-19 disease treatment protocol. The mean onset of osteonecrosis symptoms appearance was 5.5 ± 2.43 weeks calculated from the day of the negative PCR test. The management was successfully done through surgical debridement and pre and post-operative antibiotics. No anti-fungal medications were prescribed as the fungal culture and the histopathological report were negative. CONCLUSION: Post-COVID-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (PC-RONJ) could be now considered as one of the potential post-COVID-19 oral and maxillofacial complications that occurs unprovokedly and mainly in the maxilla.

Extracellular vesicles in low volume uterine lavage and serum: novel and promising biomarker for endometritis in Arabian mares.

BACKGROUND: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a promising biomarker and play a vital role in cell-cell communication. This study aimed (I) to identify and characterize EVs from low volume uterine lavage (LVL) and serum in mares with endometritis, compared to healthy controls and (II) to measure serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), and prostaglandins (PGF2α and PGE2). Mares were divided into 30 sub-fertile (endometritis) and 20 fertile (controls). Serum and LVL was collected for EV isolation, and determination of serum levels of inflammatory mediators. Characterization and visualization of EVs were done by electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and flow cytometry. RESULTS: Serial ultracentrifugation of LVL and use of a commercial kit for serum were strategies for EVs isolation. Mares with endometritis released higher amounts of larger size EVs. The EVs from mares with endometritis differentially expressed CD9 and CD63, compared to controls. Mares suffering from endometritis evoked higher levels of inflammatory mediators. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, EVs could be used for a better understanding the regulatory mechanisms associated with developing endometritis in mares.

Differential molecular and hormonal changes in oocytes, granulosa cells and follicular fluid of pregnant and non-pregnant camels.

This study aimed to compare the expression of genes regulating follicles development, survival and steroid hormones secretion in oocytes and granulosa cells (GCs) and study the correlation between their expression and follicular fluid (FF) levels of progesterone (P4) in pregnant and non-pregnant camels. In total, 138 ovarian pairs from slaughtered camels were used. Gene expression and hormonal assay were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. The obtained results revealed that the number of follicles (3-8 mm) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in pregnant, compared with non-pregnant, camels. P4 level in the FF was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in pregnant, compared with non-pregnant, camels. However, no significant (P > 0.05) difference was noticed in the oestradiol (E2) level. STAR, PTEN, IGF1 and BCL2 mRNA levels were significantly higher in GCs and significantly lower in oocytes of pregnant, compared with non-pregnant, camels. However, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) mRNA level was significantly lower in GCs and oocytes, and the BMP15 mRNA level was significantly lower in oocytes of pregnant, compared with non-pregnant, camels. P4 level in FF was positively correlated with STAR, PTEN, IGF1 and BCL2 mRNA levels in GCs and negatively correlated with BMP15 mRNA levels in oocytes and FSHR mRNA levels in GCs and oocytes of pregnant camels. It could be concluded that pregnancy-induced variations in oocytes and GC expression of BMP15, IGF1, FSHR, STAR, BCL2, and PTEN genes might be associated with a decrease in the number of follicles and an increase in the FF level of P4.

New insights into molecular aspects of sperm-oviductal binding in Egyptian buffaloes using an in vitro model: Effects of oviductal segments and media.

We aimed (I) to simulate an in vivo milieu, through establishing an in vitro paradigm to study sperm-oviductal interactions using different segments of oviduct, as well as different incubation media, and (II) to investigate spatial changes of oviductal gene expression. Two experiments were designed; one was to investigate the yield of oviduct aggregates from different oviduct segments; in the second experiment, we observed effects of different incubation media on sperm-oviductal binding. Oviduct cell pellets before (control) and after sperm binding were collected for RNA isolation and gene expression. Isthmus resulted in a higher aggregate yield and possessed the highest affinity towards spermatozoa. The different segments of oviduct showed clear changes in gene expression after sperm binding. TALP medium promoted formation of a higher number of oviduct aggregates towards spermatozoa. Different media resulted in profound alterations in isthmus gene expression. Collectively, isthmus segment in TALP media showed the highest binding affinity to spermatozoa. At the molecular level, our in vitro model was successful for simulation in vivo milieu. Thus, our findings could be used as a simple tool to gain more insights into the molecular regulation of sperm movement, selection and affinity for oviductal binding in buffaloes.

Dynamic patterns of expressed genes in granulosa cells during follicular and luteal stages in Egyptian buffaloes.

A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms in granulosa cells (GC) is warranted, during different follicular and luteal developmental stages in buffalo cows. We aimed to (I) study the expression of selected genes in GC during follicular and luteal phases, (II) evaluate correlations between GC gene expression and steroid concentrations {17-beta estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4)} in follicular fluid (FF), and (III) study effect of ovarian status on follicular population as well as follicular size frequency. Ovaries were collected in pairs from buffaloes (n = 178). Ovaries bearing corpus luteum (CL) were subdivided into hemorrhagic, developing, mature, and albicans. Follicles from luteal groups were classified only into small (< 4 mm) and large (9-20 mm), while follicles from follicular groups were classified into three subgroups: small (< 4 mm), medium (5-8 mm), and large (9-20 mm). The FF and GC were collected for steroid concentrations measurement and gene expression, respectively. In the follicular phase, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) and cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19) in small follicles decreased compared to medium ones. Large follicle showed an increase in LHCGR and CYP19 compared to medium ones. Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) decreased in large compared to medium size follicles. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) increased in small and large follicles. Meanwhile, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and phospholipase A2 group III (PLA2G3) decreased in small and large follicles. The different stages of luteal phase had a profound impact on GC gene expression. There were strong (positive and/or negative) correlations between gene expression and steroid hormones. The different scenarios between expressed genes in GC and steroid concentrations are required for the proper growth and development of follicles and CL.

Impact of nano-selenium on nuclear maturation and genes expression profile of buffalo oocytes matured in vitro.

Supplementation of maturation media with antioxidant (bulk form) improves oocyte maturation. However, the influence of adding antioxidant (nano-particles) on oocyte maturation is not well known. We aimed to evaluate the effect of selenium nano-particles (SeNP) and bulk selenium (Se) on buffalo oocytes maturation, in terms nuclear maturation and molecular level. Oocytes were distributed into four groups; 1st group was control, 2nd group was supplied with Se (10 ng/ml), 3rd and 4th groups were supplied with 1 µg/ml SeNP (67 nm), and SeNP (40 nm), respectively. Matured oocytes were fixed and stained to determine nuclear maturation. Oocytes and COC after IVM were stored at - 80 °C, for RNA isolation and qRT-PCR for selected genes. The Se and seNP (40 nm) had a positive effect on oocytes nuclear maturation rates. Apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase (CASP3) was reduced in all supplemented groups. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) was up-regulated in oocytes supplemented with SeNP (40 nm). In COC, AMH increased in group supplemented with SeNP (67 nm). In oocytes, phospholipase A2 group III (PLA2G3) decreased in all supplemented groups. While in COC, PLA2G3increased in group supplied with Se. In COC, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) increased in groups supplied with Se or SeNP (40 nm).Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) increased in all supplemented groups, in oocytes and COC. In oocytes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) was up-regulated in supplemented groups {Se and SeNP (67 nm)}.The DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) in oocytes was reduced in supplemented groups. In oocytes, the POU class 5 homeobox 1 (OCT4) increased in all supplemented groups. In COC, the OCT4 was over-expressed in group supplemented with SeNP (40 nm). Selenium supplementation in bulk or nano-particle improved in vitro buffalo oocytes maturation, viaup-regulation of antioxidant defense and development competence genes. SeNP (smaller size, 40 nm) induced higher expression of antioxidant gene.

Expression profiling of primary cultured buffalo granulosa cells from different follicular size in comparison with their in vivo counterpart.

This study aimed to: (i) characterize cultured granulosa cells (GCs) from different follicle sizes morphologically and molecularly; and (ii) select a suitable model according to follicular size that maintained GC function during culture. Buffalo ovaries were collected from a slaughterhouse and follicles were classified morphologically into: first group ≤ 4 mm, second group 5-8 mm, third group 9-15 mm and fourth group 16-20 mm diameter. GC pellets were divided into two portions. The first portion served as the control fresh pellet, and the secondwas used for 1 week for GC culture. Total RNA was isolated, and qRT-PCR was performed to test for follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), cytochrome P450 19 (CYP19), luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase (CASP3), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and phospholipase A2 group III (PLA2G3) mRNAs. Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels in the culture supernatant and in follicular fluids were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Basic DMEM-F12 medium maintained the morphological appearance of cultured GCs. The relative abundance of FSHR, CYP19, and LHCGR mRNAs was 0.001 ≤ P ≤ 0.01 and decreased at the end of culture compared with the fresh pellet. There was a fine balance between expression patterns of the proliferation marker gene (PCNA) and the proapoptotic marker gene (CASP3). AMH mRNA was significantly increased (P < 0.001) in cultured GCs from small follicles, while cultured GCs from other three categories (5-8 mm, 9-15 mm and 16-20 mm) showed a clear reduction (P < 0.001). Interestingly, the relative abundance of PLA2G3 mRNA was significantly (P < 0.001) increased in all cultured GCs. E2 and P4 concentrations were significantly (P < 0.001) decreased in all cultured groups. Primary cultured GCs from small follicles could be a good model for better understanding follicular development in Egyptian buffaloes.

Establishment a protocol for total RNA isolation from buffalo fresh and frozen semen for molecular applications.

To date, there is no an established protocol for total RNA isolation in Egyptian buffalo spermatozoa. The present study aimed (I) to establish a defined protocol for total RNA isolation from fresh and frozen spermatozoa, (II) to evaluate RNA quality and quantity from different extraction methods and studying gene expression. Warm and standard room temperature modified QIAzol Lysis Reagents were used for total RNA extraction. The quality and quantity of extracted RNA were checked, and subsequently qRT-PCR was performed using androgen receptor-like and three reference gene primers (GAPDH, ACTB and 18S). The warm modified QIAzol Lysis Reagents resulted higher yield of good quality RNA from fresh (569.54 ± 18.83 ng/µl) and frozen spermatozoa (110.59 ± 4.43 ng/µl), compared to standard room temperature modified QIAzol (421.26 ± 7.18 ng/µl) and (29.07 ± 5.25 ng/µl), for fresh and frozen semen samples respectively. The 260/280 ratio was 1.90 and 1.89 for fresh and frozen isolated semen by warm method respectively. The integrity of RNA was good and appeared as a sharp band on 2% agarose gel. The most stable reference gene was 18S. Reliable extraction method of high quality RNA yield could be a step forward for understanding mechanisms of spermatogenesis for improving male fertility.

Clinical and subclinical endometritis induced alterations in bovine endometrial transcriptome and miRNome profile.

BACKGROUND: Clinical and subclinical endometritis are known to affect the fertility of dairy cows by inducing uterine inflammation. We hypothesized that clinical or subclinical endometritis could affect the fertility of cows by disturbing the molecular milieu of the uterine environment. Here we aimed to investigate the endometrial molecular signatures and pathways affected by clinical and subclinical endometritis. For this, Holstein Frisian cows at 42-60 days postpartum were classified as healthy (HE), subclinical endometritis (SE) or clinical endometritis (CE) based on veterinary clinical examination of the animals and histological evaluation the corresponding endometrial biopsies. Endometrial transcriptome and miRNome profile changes and associated molecular pathways induced by subclinical or clinical endometritis were then investigated using GeneChip® Bovine Genome Array and Exiqon microRNA PCR Human Panel arrays, respectively. The results were further validated in vitro using endometrial stromal and epithelial cells challenged with subclinical and clinical doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). RESULT: Transcriptome profile analysis revealed altered expression level of 203 genes in CE compared to HE animals. Of these, 92 genes including PTHLH, INHBA, DAPL1 and SERPINA1 were significantly upregulated, whereas the expression level of 111 genes including MAOB, CXCR4, HSD11B and, BOLA, were significantly downregulated in CE compared to the HE animal group. However, in SE group, the expression patterns of only 28 genes were found to be significantly altered, of which 26 genes including PTHLH, INHBA, DAPL1, MAOB, CXCR4 and TGIF1 were common to the CE group. Gene annotation analysis indicated the immune system processes; G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway and chemotaxis to be among the affected functions in endometritis animal groups. In addition, miRNA expression analysis indicated the dysregulation of 35 miRNAs including miR-608, miR-526b* and miR-1265 in CE animals and 102 miRNAs including let-7 family (let-7a, let-7c, let-7d, let-7d*, let-7e, let-7f, let-7i) in SE animals. Interestingly, 14 miRNAs including let-7e, miR-92b, miR-337-3p, let-7f and miR-145 were affected in both SE and CE animal groups. Further in vitro analysis of selected differentially expressed genes and miRNAs in endometrial stroma and epithelial cells challenged with SE and CE doses of LPS showed similar results to that of the array data generated using samples collected from SE and CE animals. CONCLUSION: The results of this study unraveled endometrial transcriptome and miRNome profile alterations in cows affected by subclinical or clinical endometritis which may have a significant effect on the uterine homeostasis and uterine receptivity.

In vitro and ex vivo protoscolicidal effect of poly(amidoamine) nanoemulsion against Echinococcus granulosus.

Hydatidosis causes a serious health hazard to humans and animals leading to significant economic and veterinary and public health concern worldwide. The present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and ex vivo protoscolicidal effects of synthesized poly(amidoamine), PAMAM, nanoemulsion. In this study, PAMAM was characterized through dynamic light scattering technique to investigate the particle size and zeta potential of nanoemulsified polymer. For the in vitro and ex vivo assays, we used eosin dye exclusion test and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to evaluate the effects of the prepared and characterized PAMAM nanoemulsion against protoscoleces from Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato G6 (GenBank: OQ443068.1) isolated from livers of naturally infected camels. Various concentrations (0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mg/mL) of PAMAM nanoemulsion at different exposure times (5, 10, 20 and 30 min) were tested against protoscolices. Our findings showed that PAMAM nanoemulsion had considerable concentration- and time-dependent protoscolicidal effect at both in vitro and ex vivo experiments. Regarding in vitro assay, PAMAM nanoemulsion had a potent protoscolicidal effect when compared with the control group with a highest protoscolicidal activity observed at the concentration of 2 mg/mL at all exposure times, such that 100% of protoscolices were killed after 20 min of exposure. Also, the mortality of protoscolices was 100% after 30 min of exposure to 1 and 1.5 mg/mL of PAMAM nanoemulsion, in vitro. Concerning ex vivo assay PAMAM nanoemulsion recorded the highest mortality rates at the concentration of 2 mg/mL (55, 99.4 and 100% at 10, 20, 30 min, respectively). Ultrastructure examination of examined protoscolices after 20 min of exposure to PAMAM nanoemulsion showed a complete loss of rostellar hooks, disruption of suckers with disorganization of hooks with partial or complete loss of them, and damage of protoscolices tegument with loss of their integrity in the form of holes and contraction of the soma region were observed in 1.5 and 2 mg/mL of PAMAM, in vitro and ex vivo, showing more damage in the in vitro conditions. It can be concluded that PAMAM nanoemulsion is a promising protoscolicidal agent offering a high protoscolicidal effect at a short exposure time. Further in vivo studies and preclinical animal trials are required to evaluate its efficacy and clinical applications against hydatid cysts.

Novel Drug Delivery Systems: An Important Direction for Drug Innovation Research and Development.

The escalating demand for enhanced therapeutic efficacy and reduced adverse effects in the pharmaceutical domain has catalyzed a new frontier of innovation and research in the field of pharmacy: novel drug delivery systems. These systems are designed to address the limitations of conventional drug administration, such as abbreviated half-life, inadequate targeting, low solubility, and bioavailability. As the disciplines of pharmacy, materials science, and biomedicine continue to advance and converge, the development of efficient and safe drug delivery systems, including biopharmaceutical formulations, has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. This article presents an overview of the latest advancements in drug delivery systems, categorized into four primary areas: carrier-based and coupling-based targeted drug delivery systems, intelligent drug delivery systems, and drug delivery devices, based on their main objectives and methodologies. Additionally, it critically analyzes the technological bottlenecks, current research challenges, and future trends in the application of novel drug delivery systems.

The beneficial effects of quinoa seed extract supplementation on ram sperm quality following cryopreservation.

Although cryopreservation is a reliable method used in assisted reproduction to preserve genetic materials, it can stimulate the occurrence of oxidative stress, which affects sperm structure and function. This research was conducted to explore the effects of quinoa seed extracts (QSE) on ram sperm quality, oxidative biomarkers, and the gene expression of frozen-thawed ram sperm. Semen samples were diluted in extenders supplemented with 0 (QSE0), 250 (QSE1), 500 (QSE2), 750 (QSE3), and 1000 (QSE4) µg of QSE /mL, and then frozen according to the typical procedure. The findings indicate that the QSE3 and QSE4 groups provided the optimal results in terms of sperm viability and progressive motility. Sperm kinematics were considerably enhanced in the QSE3 group compared to the other groups (P<0.01). QSE (500-1000 µg/mL) significantly decreased the apoptosis-like changes (higher viable and lower apoptotic sperm) in ram sperm (P<0.001). The percentage of live sperm with intact acrosomes was significantly increased, while the percentage of detached and intact acrosomes in live and dead sperm were significantly decreased respectively by the QSE addition (P<0.001). All QSE groups had higher TAC and lower MDA and H2O2 levels than the control group (P<0.001). The expressions of SOD1, CAT, GABPB1, and GPX1 genes in sperm samples were significantly increased, while the CASP3 gene was significantly decreased in all QSE-supplemented samples. Our data suggest that QSE has beneficial effects on sperm quality of cryopreserved ram semen, which are achieved by promoting sperm antioxidant-related genes and reducing apoptosis-related gene.

Neighborhood Disadvantage, Quality of Life, and Symptom Burden in Children with Mild Sleep-disordered Breathing.

Rationale: Neighborhood disadvantage (ND) has been associated with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children. However, the association between ND and SDB symptom burden and quality of life (QOL) has not yet been studied.Objectives: To evaluate associations between ND with SDB symptom burden and QOL.Methods: Cross-sectional analyses were performed on 453 children, ages 3-12.9 years, with mild SDB (habitual snoring and apnea-hypopnea index < 3/h) enrolled in the PATS (Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy Trial for Snoring) multicenter study. The primary exposure, neighborhood disadvantage, was characterized by the Child Opportunity Index (COI) (range, 0-100), in which lower values (specifically COI ⩽ 40) signify less advantageous neighborhoods. The primary outcomes were QOL assessed by the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-18 questionnaire (range, 18-126) and SDB symptom burden assessed by the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire-Sleep-related Breathing Disorder (PSQ-SRBD) scale (range, 0-1). The primary model was adjusted for age, sex, race, ethnicity, maternal education, recruitment site, and season. In addition, we explored the role of body mass index (BMI) percentile, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), and asthma in these associations.Results: The sample included 453 children (16% Hispanic, 26% Black or African American, 52% White, and 6% other). COI mean (standard deviation [SD]) was 50.3 (29.4), and 37% (n = 169) of participants lived in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Poor SDB-related QOL (OSA-18 ⩾ 60) and high symptom burden (PSQ-SRBD ⩾ 0.33) were found in 30% (n = 134) and 75% (n = 341) of participants, respectively. In adjusted models, a COI increase by 1 SD (i.e., more advantageous neighborhood) was associated with an improvement in OSA-18 score by 2.5 points (95% confidence interval [CI], -4.34 to -0.62) and in PSQ-SRBD score by 0.03 points (95% CI, -0.05 to -0.01). These associations remained significant after adjusting for BMI percentile, ETS, or asthma; however, associations between COI and SDB-related QOL attenuated by 23% and 10% after adjusting for ETS or asthma, respectively.Conclusions: Neighborhood disadvantage was associated with poorer SDB-related QOL and greater SDB symptoms. Associations were partially attenuated after considering the effects of ETS or asthma. The findings support efforts to reduce ETS and neighborhood-level asthma-related risk factors and identify other neighborhood-level factors that contribute to SDB symptom burden as strategies to address sleep-health disparities.Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02562040).