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1.
Chaos ; 33(1): 013126, 2023 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36725622

ABSTRACT

We analyze the nonlinear dynamics of a quartic semiclassical system able to describe the interaction of matter with a field. We do it in both dissipative and conservative scenarios. In particular, we study the classical limit of both frameworks and compare the associated features. In the two environments, we heavily use a system's invariant, related to the Uncertainty Principle, that helps to determine how the dynamics tends to the pertinent classical limit. We exhibit the convergence to the classical limit and also verify that the Uncertainty Principle is complied with during the entire process, even in the presence of dissipation.

2.
Br Poult Sci ; 62(2): 166-171, 2021 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33325274

ABSTRACT

1. This study was undertaken to evaluate genetic diversity among three varieties of Japanese quail (British Range, English White and Tuxedo) differing in plumage colour. The level of genetic variation was rated through the histone H1 polymorphic loci (H1.b and H1.z) containing quantitatively similar (P > 0.05) isoforms (H1.b1, H1.b2 and H1.z1, H1.z2) that form both homozygous (b1, b2 and z1, z2) and heterozygous (b1b2 and z1z2) phenotypes.2. The complete set of histone H1 phenotypes were characteristic of the British Range and Tuxedo varieties. Phenotypes b2 and z2 were not detected in the English White variety. A lack of the former phenotypes resulted in excess of heterozygotes at loci H1.b (F = -0.563) and H1.z (F = -0.562), pointing to the presence of outbreeding.3. The English White variety deviated from Hardy-Weinberg proportions (H1.b - Χ2 = 7.61, P < 0.05 and H1.z - Χ2 = 5.84, P < 0.05), in contrast to the British Range variety (H1.b - Χ2 = 0.86, P > 0.05 and H1.z - Χ2 = 0.86, P > 0.05) and Tuxedo (H1.b - Χ2 = 1.6, P > 0.05 and H1.z - Χ2 = 1.6, P > 0.05). The estimated values of the FST index for loci H1.b (0.073) and H1.z (0.099) indicate a moderate genetic diversity of the quail population.4. The distinct array and distribution of histone H1 phenotypes among quail varieties suggested that histone H1 allelic variants might have an individual impact on characteristic pigmentation of poultry.


Subject(s)
Histones , Quail , Animals , Chickens , Coturnix/genetics , Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel/veterinary , Erythrocytes , Histones/genetics , Polymorphism, Genetic
3.
Drugs Today (Barc) ; 56(12): 755-768, 2020 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33332482

ABSTRACT

Fedratinib hydrochloride is a selective Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) inhibitor approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2019 for intermediate- 2 or high-risk primary or secondary myelofibrosis. The approval of this novel oral agent was based on the phase II and III JAKARTA-2 and JAKARTA trials, which both showed significant reduction in splenomegaly and myelofibrosis symptom burden. The most common adverse effects associated with fedratinib include anemia, gastrointestinal symptoms and elevation in liver transaminases. Early clinical trial data was concerning for an increased incidence of Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE), which led the FDA to place a clinical hold on further drug development. However, upon further investigation it was determined that there was no clear evidence that fedratinib causes WE, and the clinical hold was lifted in 2017. This inclusive review provides insight into the pharmacology, safety and efficacy, and future direction of fedratinib use in myeloproliferative neoplasms.


Subject(s)
Primary Myelofibrosis , Drug Development , Humans , Primary Myelofibrosis/drug therapy , Protein Kinase Inhibitors/adverse effects , Pyrrolidines , Sulfonamides
4.
Transplant Proc ; 50(7): 2140-2144, 2018 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30177126

ABSTRACT

Combined liver-kidney transplantation (CLKT) is a rare procedure in pediatric patients in which liver and kidney from 1 donor are transplanted to a recipient during a single operation. The aim of our study was to analyze indications and results of CLKT in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1990 and 2017 we performed 722 liver transplantations in children; we performed 920 kidney transplantations in children since 1984. Among them, 25 received CLKT. Primary diagnosis was fibro-polycystic liver and kidney disease in 17 patients, primary hyperoxaluria type 1 in 6 patients, and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome-related renal failure in 2 children. Age of patients at CLKT was 3 to 23 years (median 16 years) and body mass was 11 to 55 kg (median 35.5kg). All patients received whole liver graft. Kidney graft was transplanted after liver reperfusion before biliary anastomosis. Cold ischemia time was 5.5 to 13.3 hours (median 9.4 hours) for liver transplants and 7.3 to 15 hours (median 10.4 hours) for kidney transplants. In 8 patients X-match was positive. We analyzed posttransplant (Tx) course and late results in our group of pediatric recipients of combined grafts. RESULTS: Tx follow-up ranged from 1.5 to 17 years (median 4.5 years). Two patients died: 1 patient with oxalosis lost renal graft and died 2.6 years after Tx due to complications of long-term dialysis, and 1 died due to massive bleeding in early postoperative period. Twelve patients were transferred under the care of adult transplantation centers. Six patients were dialyzed after CLKT due to acute tubular necrosis, and time of kidney function recovery was 10 to 27 days in these patients. In 1 patient with aHUS, renal function did not recover. In children with oxalosis, hemodialysis was performed for 1 month after Tx as a standard, with the aim to remove accumulated oxalate. Primary immunosuppression consisted of daclizumab or basiliximab, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and steroids. Acute rejection occurred in 4 liver and 3 kidney grafts. One patient required liver retransplantation due to hepatitis C virus recurrence and 2 patients required kidney retransplantation. Two patients required dialysis. CONCLUSIONS: CLKT in children results in low rate of rejection and high rate of patient and graft survival.


Subject(s)
Kidney Transplantation/methods , Liver Transplantation/methods , Adolescent , Child , Child, Preschool , Female , Graft Survival , Humans , Male , Retrospective Studies , Treatment Outcome , Young Adult
5.
Contemp Clin Trials ; 60: 113-124, 2017 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28642211

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Depression and diabetes are highly prevalent worldwide and often co-exist, worsening outcomes for each condition. Barriers to diagnosis and treatment are exacerbated in low and middle-income countries with limited health infrastructure and access to mental health treatment. The INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT (INDEPENDENT) study tests the sustained effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a multi-component care model for individuals with poorly-controlled diabetes and depression in diabetes clinics in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adults with diabetes, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score≥10), and ≥1 poorly-controlled cardiometabolic indicator (either HbA1c≥8.0%, SBP≥140mmHg, and/or LDL≥130mg/dl) were enrolled and randomized to the intervention or usual care. The intervention combined collaborative care, decision-support, and population health management. The primary outcome is the between-arm difference in the proportion of participants achieving combined depression response (≥50% reduction in Symptom Checklist score from baseline) AND one or more of: ≥0.5% reduction in HbA1c, ≥5mmHg reduction in SBP, or ≥10mg/dl reduction in LDL-c at 24months (12-month intervention; 12-month observational follow-up). Other outcomes include control of individual parameters, patient-centered measures (i.e. treatment satisfaction), and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS: The study trained seven care coordinators. Participant recruitment is complete - 940 adults were screened, with 483 eligible, and 404 randomized (196 to intervention; 208 to usual care). Randomization was balanced across clinic sites. CONCLUSIONS: The INDEPENDENT model aims to increase access to mental health care and improve depression and cardiometabolic disease outcomes among complex patients with diabetes by leveraging the care provided in diabetes clinics in India (clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT02022111).


Subject(s)
Case Management/organization & administration , Depression/epidemiology , Depression/therapy , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/epidemiology , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/therapy , Self Care/methods , Adult , Aged , Blood Pressure , Case Management/economics , Cholesterol, LDL/blood , Cost-Benefit Analysis , Female , Glycated Hemoglobin , Humans , India , Male , Middle Aged , Motivational Interviewing/methods , Patient Education as Topic/methods , Research Design , Single-Blind Method
6.
Environ Sci Pollut Res Int ; 24(1): 547-557, 2017 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27734315

ABSTRACT

The study was carried out to determine the content of mercury in bone tissue of the proximal femur (head and neck bone) of 95 patients undergoing total hip replacement due to osteoarthritis, using CF-AFS analytical technique. Furthermore, the investigations were aimed at assessing the impact of selected factors, such as age, gender, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to chemical substance at work, type of degenerative changes, clinical evaluation and radiological parameters, type of medications, on the concentration of mercury in the head and neck of the femur, resected in situ. Mercury was obtained in all samples of the head and neck of the femur (n = 190) in patients aged 25-91 years. The mean content of mercury for the whole group of patients was as follows: 37.1 ± 35.0 ng/g for the femoral neck and 24.2 ± 19.5 ng/g for the femoral head. The highest Hg contents were found in femoral neck samples, both in women and men, and they amounted to 169.6 and 176.5 ng/g, respectively. The research showed that the mercury content of bones can be associated with body mass index, differences in body anatomy, and gender. The uses of statistical analysis gave the possibility to define the influence of factors on mercury content in human femoral bones.


Subject(s)
Femur Head/chemistry , Femur Neck/chemistry , Hip Joint/chemistry , Mercury/analysis , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Body Mass Index , Environmental Monitoring , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged
7.
Theor Appl Genet ; 126(7): 1793-808, 2013 Jul.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23558983

ABSTRACT

Hexaploid bread wheat evolved from a rare hybridisation, which resulted in a loss of genetic diversity in the wheat D-genome with respect to the ancestral donor, Aegilops tauschii. Novel genetic variation can be introduced into modern wheat by recreating the above hybridisation; however, the information associated with the Ae. tauschii accessions in germplasm collections is limited, making rational selection of accessions into a re-synthesis programme difficult. We describe methodologies to identify novel diversity from Ae. tauschii accessions that combines Bayesian analysis of genotypic data, sub-species diversity and geographic information that summarises variation in climate and habitat at the collection point for each accession. Comparisons were made between diversity discovered amongst a panel of Ae. tauschii accessions, bread wheat varieties and lines from the CIMMYT synthetic hexaploid wheat programme. The selection of Ae. tauschii accessions based on differing approaches had significant effect on diversity within each set. Our results suggest that a strategy that combines several criteria will be most effective in maximising the sampled variation across multiple parameters. The analysis of multiple layers of variation in ex situ Ae. tauschii collections allows for an informed and rational approach to the inclusion of wild relatives into crop breeding programmes.


Subject(s)
Genetic Variation , Triticum/genetics , Bayes Theorem , Climate , Environment , Genotype , Hybridization, Genetic , Phenotype , Poaceae/genetics
9.
Eur J Pediatr Surg ; 20(1): 5-10, 2010 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19866413

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Various congenital and acquired diseases of the lower urinary tract can lead to chronic renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy. AIM: The aim of the study was to assess problems and results of kidney transplantation in children with significant lower urinary tract dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1984 and 2007, there were 33 kidney transplantations in children with end-stage renal disease and severe lower tract dysfunction out of 539 kidney transplantations performed in our department. The patients were 23 males and 10 females. Thirty patients received a kidney from a deceased donor, the remaining 3 from a living related donor. The age at transplantation ranged from 2.25 years to 19 years. In 26 patients an ileal conduit modo Bricker was created (in 21 patients at transplant operation). Bladder augmentation was performed in 6 patients and a continent urinary reservoir was created in 1. RESULTS: Post-transplant follow-up ranged from 7 to 88 months (mean 32 months). Overall patient survival is 100% and graft survival is 97%. Creatinine concentrations ranged from 0.3 to 3.4 mg% (mean 0.92 mg%). Surgical complications were diagnosed in 16 patients. All surgical complications were treated successfully and none of them caused graft loss. Urinary tract infections (UTI) were the most commonly observed complication, occurring in 26/33 (78%) patients, but the majority of these UTI were asymptomatic and had no influence on graft function. CONCLUSIONS: Kidney transplantation in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction and end-stage renal failure offers excellent medium term results in our experience, despite the creation of non-standard urinary drainage. Recurrent urinary tract infections are the most common complications in these patients, but in the majority of cases this does not lead to impairment of graft function.


Subject(s)
Kidney Transplantation/methods , Urinary Bladder/surgery , Urinary Diversion/methods , Urinary Reservoirs, Continent , Urinary Tract/abnormalities , Urologic Diseases/surgery , Adolescent , Child , Child, Preschool , Cystostomy , Female , Humans , Male , Poland , Postoperative Complications , Retrospective Studies , Treatment Outcome , Ureterostomy , Urinary Diversion/adverse effects , Urinary Reservoirs, Continent/adverse effects , Young Adult
10.
Pol J Vet Sci ; 12(2): 231-5, 2009.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19645354

ABSTRACT

The results of studies conducted in 2006 revealed that mass red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) invasions cause somatic stress which may be responsible for the pathophysiological mechanism of decreased egg production, lower humoral immunity and higher mortality in layer hens. The aim of this study was to validate the above research results, to investigate whether in addition to somatic stress, red mite invasions cause psychogenic stress due to the activation of the sympatho-adrenomedullar system, and to determine the level of stress resulting from red mite infestations in comparison with a short, 1.5 h period of acute immobilisation stress. The study investigated 36 HY-Line Brown layer hens divided into three groups: a non-infested control group, an experimental group infested with red mites and a non-infested experimental group subjected to acute immobilisation stress for 1.5 h. Blood samples were taken from all hens for the determination of the levels of corticosterone, adrenaline, noradrenaline, albumin, and alpha-, beta- and gamma-globulins. The results validated the previous reports on the occurrence of somatic stress and on a significant decrease in y-globulin levels (p < or = 0.01) in the group of birds infested with red mites, in comparison with the control group. Adrenaline levels in infested hens were indicative of psychogenic stress. Based on a comparison of hormonal indicators in all hen groups, the level of somatic stress resulting from red mite infestation can be classified as moderate, while the level of psychogenic stress can be interpreted as high. A significant drop in y-globulin levels in the blood of birds infested with red mites also shows that the invasion induces chronic stress which lowers the humoral immunity of hens.


Subject(s)
Blood Proteins/metabolism , Catecholamines/blood , Chickens , Corticosterone/blood , Mite Infestations/veterinary , Poultry Diseases/parasitology , Animals , Female , Mite Infestations/blood , Mites/classification , Oviposition , Poultry Diseases/blood , Restraint, Physical , Stress, Physiological
11.
Med Vet Entomol ; 23 Suppl 1: 106-10, 2009 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19335837

ABSTRACT

The geographical distribution and seasonality of the New World screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax Coquerel (Diptera: Calliphoridae), were monitored through the use of sentinel animals as part of a co-ordinated programme involving veterinarians and farmers, as well as undergraduate students and teachers from veterinary colleges in Venezuela. This surveillance activity made it possible to collect NWS egg masses or larvae from all 23 states in the country and to determine that the rainy season has a strong positive influence on the number of cases of myiasis caused by C. hominivorax in dogs. In addition, efforts were made to obtain the co-operation of the public health service in order to document the extent of human myiasis in the western-central region of Venezuela. Preliminary results revealed 241 cases over a 7-year period, with cases reported in infants as well as in elderly people. Larvae causing myiasis, other than C. hominivorax, were collected from primary myiasis in rabbit (Lucilia eximia [Wiedemann]), dog (an unidentified sarcophagid species), birds (Philornis sp.) and wild mice (Cuterebra sp.). The economic impact of NWS in Venezuela has not been calculated in terms of loss of milk and meat production, damage to hides or death of animals. Control costs (e.g. cost of larvicides) have been estimated at US$ 2 m per year. Control of myiasis in animals is achieved through the use of chemical compounds, mainly organophosphorus (OP) compounds, macrocyclic lactones and, more recently, a foamy spray based on spinosad. Concerns about insecticide resistance to OP compounds have been raised.


Subject(s)
Diptera/pathogenicity , Screw Worm Infection/veterinary , Aged , Animals , Animals, Domestic/parasitology , Costs and Cost Analysis , Geography , Humans , Infant , Insecticides/economics , Insecticides/pharmacology , Meat/parasitology , Milk/parasitology , Myiasis/economics , Myiasis/prevention & control , Myiasis/veterinary , Screw Worm Infection/economics , Screw Worm Infection/epidemiology , Venezuela/epidemiology
12.
Environ Pollut ; 149(1): 31-43, 2007 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17337104

ABSTRACT

Concentrations of nitrogen gases (NH(3), NO(2), NO, HONO and HNO(3)) and particles (pNH(4) and pNO(3)) were measured over a mixed coniferous forest impacted by high nitrogen loads. Nitrogen dioxide (NO(2)) represented the main nitrogen form, followed by nitric oxide (NO) and ammonia (NH(3)). A combination of gradient method (NH(3) and NO(x)) and resistance modelling techniques (HNO(3), HONO, pNH(4) and pNO(3)) was used to calculate dry deposition of nitrogen compounds. Net flux of NH(3) amounted to -64 ng N m(-2) s(-1) over the measuring period. Net fluxes of NO(x) were upward (8.5 ng N m(-2) s(-1)) with highest emission in the morning. Fluxes of other gases or aerosols substantially contributed to dry deposition. Total nitrogen deposition was estimated at -48 kg N ha(-1) yr(-1) and consisted for almost 80% of NH(x). Comparison of throughfall nitrogen with total deposition suggested substantial uptake of reduced N (+/-15 kg N ha(-1) yr(-1)) within the canopy.


Subject(s)
Air Pollutants/analysis , Forestry , Nitrogen/analysis , Pinus sylvestris , Acid Rain , Aerosols , Ammonia/analysis , Environmental Monitoring/methods , Models, Theoretical , Netherlands , Nitrates/analysis , Nitric Acid/analysis , Nitric Oxide/analysis , Nitrogen Dioxide/analysis , Nitrous Acid/analysis , Oxidation-Reduction , Particulate Matter
13.
Br J Radiol ; 80(953): 347-54, 2007 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17068012

ABSTRACT

Routine anatomical imaging with CT and MRI does not reliably indicate the true extent or the most malignant areas of gliomas and cannot identify the functionally critical parts of the brain. The aim of the study was to see if the use of MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) along with functional MRI (fMRI) can better define both the target and the critical structures to be avoided to improve radiation delivery in gliomas. 12 patients with gliomas underwent multivoxel MRS and functional imaging using GE processing software. The choline to creatine ratio (Cho:Cr), which represents the degree of abnormality for each individual voxel on MRSI, was derived, converted into a grayscale grading system, fused to the MRI images and then transferred to the planning CT images. An intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plan was developed using the dose constraints based on both the anatomical and the functionally critical regions. Cho:Cr consistently identified the gross tumour volume (GTV) within the microscopic disease (clinical target volume, CTV) and allowed dose painting using IMRT. No correlation between MRSI based Cho:Cr > or =2 and MR defined CTV nor their location was noted. However, MRSI defined Cho:Cr > or =3 was smaller by 40% compared with post-contrast T1 weighted MRI defined GTV volumes. fMRI helped in optimizing the orientation of the beams. In conclusion, both MRSI and fMRI provide additional information to conventional imaging that may guide dose painting in treatment planning of gliomas. A Phase I IMRT dose intensification trial in gliomas using this information is planned.


Subject(s)
Brain Neoplasms/pathology , Glioma/pathology , Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods , Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/methods , Brain/pathology , Brain Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Choline/analysis , Cranial Irradiation/adverse effects , Creatine/analysis , Glioma/radiotherapy , Humans , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods , Radiotherapy Dosage , Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted/methods
14.
Transplant Proc ; 38(1): 253-4, 2006.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16504717

ABSTRACT

Treatment of patients with fulminant liver failure is a challenge of contemporary medicine. Liver transplantation, in this group, is presently the only reasonable alternative, but in many patients the disastrous condition of the patient results in serious life-threatening complications, including neurological sequelae, which may influence the quality of life after transplantation, and in some cases even cause death. From 1990 to 2004, we performed 241 liver transplantations in children, including 20 transplanted due to fulminant liver failure (8.2%). Serious neurological complications followed liver transplantation in five cases (20%), three of which were fatal. The analysis revealed that the duration of pretransplant coma (grade III or IV) strongly correlated with the incidence of neurological complications (P < .05). Also a suboptimal quality of the donor liver and poor early graft function may contribute to these posttransplant complications.


Subject(s)
Liver Failure, Acute/surgery , Liver Transplantation , Nervous System Diseases/etiology , Postoperative Complications/classification , Adolescent , Adult , Child , Child, Preschool , Coma/epidemiology , Coma/etiology , Humans , Liver Diseases/classification , Liver Diseases/surgery , Liver Transplantation/adverse effects , Liver Transplantation/mortality , Retrospective Studies , Survival Analysis
15.
Neuroscience ; 136(1): 259-67, 2005.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16182452

ABSTRACT

Many patients display elevated levels of serum cortisol following acute ischemic stroke. Given that glucocorticoids may potentiate some forms of insult, these studies examined the effects of corticosterone or dexamethasone exposure on cytotoxicity following oxygen-glucose deprivation in the cerebellum, a brain region susceptible to stroke. In organotypic cerebellar slice cultures prepared from neonatal rat pups, 90-min of oxygen-glucose deprivation at 15 days in vitro resulted in significant cytotoxicity at 24-, 48-, and 72-h post-oxygen-glucose deprivation, as measured by uptake of propidium iodide. Exposure of cultures following oxygen-glucose deprivation to the antioxidant trolox (500 microM), but not to the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist RU486 (10 microM), completely blocked oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced cytotoxicity. Corticosterone (1 microM) or dexamethasone (10 microM) exposure alone did not significantly increase propidium iodide uptake above levels observed in control cultures. However, corticosterone or dexamethasone exposure after oxygen-glucose deprivation potentiated oxygen-glucose deprivation-mediated propidium iodide uptake at each time point. Trolox, as well as RU486, co-exposure of cultures to corticosterone or dexamethasone after oxygen-glucose deprivation abolished all cytotoxicity. In conclusion, these data demonstrated that glucocorticoid exposure modulated oxygen-glucose deprivation-mediated propidium iodide uptake, which likely involved glucocorticoid receptor activation and pro-oxidant effects.


Subject(s)
Cerebellum/drug effects , Cerebellum/physiopathology , Corticosterone/pharmacology , Dexamethasone/pharmacology , Glucose/deficiency , Hypoxia/physiopathology , Animals , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Cell Death/drug effects , Cerebellum/metabolism , Chromans/pharmacology , Drug Synergism , Female , In Vitro Techniques , Male , Mifepristone/pharmacology , Propidium/pharmacokinetics , Rats , Rats, Sprague-Dawley
16.
J Dairy Sci ; 87(10): 3268-79, 2004 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-15377606

ABSTRACT

The objective was to evaluate the effects of pregnancy and bovine somatotropin (bST) on endometrial gene and protein expression related to maintenance of pregnancy in nonlactating dairy cows at d 17. In endometrial tissues, treatment with bST increased the steady state concentration of oxytocin receptor (OTR) mRNA; bST-treated cyclic (bST-C) cows had greater OTR mRNA than bST-treated pregnant (bST-P) cows. Estradiol receptor alpha (ERalpha) mRNA was reduced in bST-P cows compared with control P and C (no bST) cows. Western blotting revealed that pregnancy decreased the abundance of ERalpha protein, and bST stimulated an increase in ERalpha protein in C and P cows. Treatment with bST increased steady state concentrations of progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA. No differences were detected in steady state mRNA concentrations of prostaglandin H synthase-2 (PGHS-2), prostaglandin E synthase, and prostaglandin F synthase due to pregnancy or bST treatment. However, PGHS-2 protein was increased in response to pregnancy and bST treatment. Immunostaining indicated that P decreased ERalpha protein in luminal epithelium and increased PR protein in epithelial cells of the uterine glands. The PR protein response in the glands was less in bST-P cows than in P cows. In the stromal layer of the endometrium, bST decreased PR protein abundance in C and P cows. The PGHS-2 protein was localized exclusively in the luminal epithelium cells of endometrium and was increased in P cows. In conclusion, distinctly different mRNA and protein responses were detected between C and P cows related to prostaglandin biosynthesis, and bST-induced changes may potentially impact mechanisms associated with maintenance of pregnancy in nonlactating cows.


Subject(s)
Cattle/metabolism , Endometrium/metabolism , Gene Expression/drug effects , Growth Hormone/pharmacology , Pregnancy Maintenance/genetics , Animals , Blotting, Western , Dinoprost/analysis , Dinoprostone/analysis , Endometrium/chemistry , Estrogen Receptor alpha/genetics , Female , Hydroxyprostaglandin Dehydrogenases/genetics , Intramolecular Oxidoreductases/genetics , Pregnancy , Prostaglandin-E Synthases , Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/analysis , Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/genetics , RNA, Messenger/analysis , Receptors, Oxytocin/genetics , Receptors, Progesterone/genetics
17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-14698921

ABSTRACT

The general patterns of histone H1 proteins from erythrocyte nuclei of Muscovy duck individuals were similar to those of Pekin type ducks both in acetic acid-urea and 2D polyacrylamide gels. We show here that Muscovy duck histone H1.z in the tested population was represented by three different electromorphs, each presumably encoded by a distinct allelic gene. Accordingly, we have identified six phenotypes consisting of the homodimeric and heterodimeric combinations of the three isoforms. The frequency of the presumptive alleles ranged from 0.506 for the main allele z1 to 0.379 for allele z2 and only 0.113 for the rarest allele z3. In addition to a standard set of somatic H1 variants, an unusual protein X, absent in other avian species, was also revealed.


Subject(s)
Histones/chemistry , Alleles , Animals , Ducks , Erythrocytes/chemistry , Polymorphism, Genetic , Protein Isoforms/chemistry
18.
Reprod Suppl ; 61: 253-66, 2003.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-14635940

ABSTRACT

Evidence is presented that bovine somatotrophin (bST) treatment of lactating dairy cows enhances both expression of oviductal insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) mRNA and endometrial insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) mRNA between day 3 and day 7 of the oestrous cycle. mRNA encoding growth hormone (GH) receptor in endometrial tissues increased between day 3 and day 7 of the oestrous cycle. The changes induced by bST treatment may contribute to stimulation of embryo development and increase pregnancy rates in lactating dairy cows. Additive effects of bST and rb interferon tau (rbIFN-tau) to inhibit phorbol ester induction of prostaglandin F2alpha secretion in immortalized bovine endometrial cells indicates that there is interplay between their signal transduction pathways. Non-lactating dairy cows were killed at day 17 after oestrus to evaluate the effects of pregnancy status (cyclic versus pregnant) and bST (bST versus control) treatment on endometrial gene expression. Distinctly different mRNA and protein responses were detected between cyclic and pregnant cows that were related to luteolytic-antiluteolytic drive (that is expression of progesterone receptor, oxytocin receptor, oestradiol receptor alpha and prostaglandin GH synthase 2 (PGHS-2)). The bST-induced changes in PGHS-2 protein (+), oxytocin receptor mRNA (+) and oestrogen receptor alpha protein (+) may potentially affect the mechanisms associated with maintenance of pregnancy. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate whether ovarian follicular suppression induced by biodegradable deslorelin implants would reduce either early or late embryo losses. A 450 microg deslorelin implant used to induce ovulation in a timed insemination programme decreased subsequent follicular development and tended to reduce early embryo losses, whereas a 2.1 mg deslorelin implant failed to reduce late embryonic losses when inserted on day 27 of pregnancy.


Subject(s)
Cattle/physiology , Embryonic and Fetal Development/drug effects , Growth Hormone/pharmacology , Lactation/physiology , Pregnancy, Animal/physiology , Animals , Cyclooxygenase 2 , Endometrium/metabolism , Estrogen Receptor alpha , Fallopian Tubes/metabolism , Female , Gene Expression , Gestational Age , Isoenzymes/genetics , Isoenzymes/metabolism , Pregnancy , Progesterone/blood , Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/genetics , Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases/metabolism , RNA, Messenger/analysis , Receptors, Estrogen/genetics , Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism , Receptors, Oxytocin/genetics , Receptors, Oxytocin/metabolism , Receptors, Progesterone/genetics , Receptors, Progesterone/metabolism , Somatomedins/metabolism
19.
Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat ; 70(1-2): 119-29, 2002 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-12428683

ABSTRACT

Oxytocin receptor (OTR) concentrations in bovine cervical mucosa rise steeply a few days before estrus to high concentrations and fall rapidly after estrus. To study the physiological role of these OTR, the effect of OT on the release of PGE, from the cervical mucosa of periestrous cows in vivo was determined by inserting bags made of dialysis tubing containing isooncotic saline solution in the endocervix for two 2-h periods, a fresh bag for each period. During the first period no treatment was given, during the second period OT (100 IU) or saline was injected i.m. PGE2 content in the second bag was significantly greater in OT-treated cows than in saline-treated cows. In a second experiment cervical resistance to stretch, achieved by distention of a balloon inside the cervical canal, was measured in periestrous cows before and 10 h after i.m. injection of OT, or endocervical application of 2.5mg PGE1 in a jelly, or the inactive jelly. A significant reduction in the resistance was achieved with both OT and PGE1; in the doses given the effect of PGE1 was longer lasting than that of OT.


Subject(s)
Cervix Uteri/metabolism , Dinoprost/analogs & derivatives , Dinoprostone/metabolism , Oxytocin/pharmacology , Animals , Cattle , Cervix Mucus/chemistry , Cervix Mucus/drug effects , Cervix Uteri/drug effects , Dinoprost/blood , Dinoprost/pharmacology , Estrus , Female , Misoprostol/pharmacology , Mucous Membrane/metabolism , Receptors, Oxytocin/physiology
20.
Pol J Vet Sci ; 5(3): 145-50, 2002.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-12448077

ABSTRACT

The aim of the study was to compare the level of susceptibility to stress in two broiler turkey lines-BUT-9 and Big-6. The experiment was performed on 120 turkey toms aged ca. 8 weeks. Each of the genetic lines was represented by 60 birds divided into 4 groups--one control and three experimental ones, 15 birds in each. The open field test was conducted in the control groups (not exposed to any stress) in order to determine the motor activity of turkeys. The other groups were subjected to the stress of transport, crowding and overheating. When the experiment was over, following indices were determined in blood plasma obtained from all the birds: the concentration of corticosterone, adrenaline and noradrenaline, the level of glucose, cholesterol, total lipids and triglycerides as well as the activity of creatine kinase. The study revealed that the lighter and slower growing BUT-9 turkeys showed a higher resistance to stress than the Big-6. They were characterised by higher motor activity, a higher initial level of catecholamines in blood and heavier adrenals. The increase in corticosterone was much lower in these birds in response to stress. A lower reactivity was also observed in the biochemical indices (the level of cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose and the activity of creatine kinase). This confirms that BUT-9 turkeys are less sensitive to adverse environmental effects than are the Big-6, an interesting feature for poultry production.


Subject(s)
Stress, Physiological/blood , Stress, Physiological/genetics , Turkeys/classification , Turkeys/genetics , Animal Husbandry , Animals , Blood Glucose/metabolism , Cholesterol/blood , Corticosterone/blood , Creatine Kinase/blood , Environment , Epinephrine/blood , Genetic Predisposition to Disease , Lipids/blood , Male , Norepinephrine/blood , Triglycerides/blood , Turkeys/blood
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