415 USE OF COMPUTER-ASSISTED ULTRASOUND IMAGE ANALYSIS IN EMBRYO RECIPIENT SELECTION

2007 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
pp. 323 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. G. B. Siqueira ◽  
J . H. M. Viana ◽  
E. D. Souza ◽  
L. S. A. Camargo ◽  
J. F. Fonseca ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Image Analysis ◽  
Pregnancy Rate ◽  
Luteal Cell ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Ultrasound Evaluation ◽  
Tissue Area ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Pixel Value ◽  
Recipient Selection

Ultrasonography has been extensively used in the study of reproductive function in areas such as antral follicular dynamics, ovulation, luteal function, and early pregnancy. However, most studies with ultrasound evaluation are limited to measurement of diameter, length, or area of internal structures, and few groups use differences in image density (echotexture) as an evaluation parameter. For corpora lutea, echo-texture differences reflect variations in vascularization and luteal cell proportions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate image analysis as a tool for embryo recipient selection. Grades I or II embryos produced by conventional superovulation (n = 55) or IVF (n = 87) were nonsurgically transferred to primiparous cows or heifer recipients (n = 142). Estrous synchronization was performed using the heat-synch protocol (Day 0: CIDR�; Day 5: 400 IU of eCG; Day 7: 500 �g of cloprostenol plus CIDR removal; Day 9: 2 mg of estradiol benzoate). Sonographic corpora lutea images were obtained on the day of embryo transfer (Day 7), using a portable ultrasound device (Aloka SSD 500; Aloka Co., Sao Paulo, Brazil) equipped with a linear rectal 5 MHz probe. Images were digitalized in .TIFF format at a resolution of 1500 � 1125, using a video capture board (Pinnacle DC10; Pinnacle Systems, Mountain View, CA, USA). A representative elementary area (REA) of 2.704 pixels (25 mm2) was defined in the luteal tissue, using the criteria proposed by Van den Bygaart et al. (1999 Can. J. Soil Sci. 79, 149–160). Image analysis was performed using a custom software package (QuantPro�). Each image dot (pixel) received a numeric value ranging from 0 (black) to 255 (white). Data from cows and heifers later diagnosed as pregnant or not in the groups receiving SOV or IVF embryos were analyzed by ANOVA, and results are presented as means � SEM. As expected, the pregnancy rate was higher for conventional than for IVF embryos (58.2% vs. 31.0%; P < 0.05). There was a low correlation (R = 0.33) between luteal tissue area and pixel value for Day 7 corpora lutea. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in luteal tissue area or echotexture between pregnant and non-pregnant animals in the groups receiving superovulation embryos (3.12 � 0.26 cm2 vs. 2.63 � 0.25 cm2, and 78.03 � 2.25 vs. 79.73 � 3.73, respectively) and IVF embryos (3.25 � 0.24 cm2 vs. 3.03 � 0.14 cm2, and 74.81 � 1.93 vs. 70.82 � 1.62, respectively). However, in the IVF embryo group, no pregnancy was established in cows bearing a CL with mean pixel value lower than 60.25 or greater than 89.27 (total values ranged from 44.72 to 99.79). Corpora lutea image analysis, using the REA proposed in this approach, had limited value to predict pregnancy rate of embryo recipients. Further studies will investigate the accuracy of the REA established and other image characteristics, including the pixel distribution pattern.

scholarly journals 313 ASSESSMENT OF LUTEAL FUNCTION IN TOGGENBURG GOATS BY COMPUTER-ASSISTED IMAGE ANALYSIS

2009 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 253
Author(s):  
E. K. N. Arashiro ◽  
J. H. M. Viana ◽  
J. F. Fonseca ◽  
L. G. B. Siqueira ◽  
J. H. Bruschi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Image Analysis ◽  
Quantitative Assessment ◽  
Function Evaluation ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Abrupt Decrease ◽  
Luteal Function ◽  
Maximum Value ◽  
Computer Assisted Image ◽  
Pixel Value

Computer-assisted image analysis is a technological extension of reproductive ultrasonography and allows the quantitative assessment of the luteal echotexture, which is related to changes in histological features and, consequently, to steroidogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficiency of luteal echotexture evaluation as a tool to assess luteal function in different phases of the estrous cycle in Toggenburg goats. Nulliparous goats (n = 21), 8 months in age, 33.52 ± 1.22 kg of body weight, and body score condition of 3.5 ± 0.07 (1 to 5 scale), which showed estrus within a 48-h period during the natural breeding season (March and April), were used. After estrous detection (Day 0) and mating, ovarian sonographic evaluations were performed daily using a portable ultrasound device (Aloka SSD 500, Aloka Co.) equipped with an adapted linear transrectal 5-MHz probe. The examinations were preceded by blood sample collections, which were stored until radioimmunoassay for progesterone (P4). Images were recorded in VHS tapes, then digitized to TIFF files (resolution of 1500 × 1125 pixels) using a video capture board. A representative elementary area of 5625 pixels (0.31 cm2) was defined for the luteal tissue according to the criterion proposed by Van den Bygaart and Protz 1999. Computer-assisted analyses were performed using custom-developed software (Quantporo®). Each pixel received a numeric value ranging from 0 (black) to 255 (white). Luteal echotexture and plasma P4 data were analyzed by ANOVA, and differences among means were determined by Tukey’s test. Correlations were established by Pearson’s correlation method. Results are shown as mean ± SEM. Corpora lutea size increased progressively (P < 0.001) until Day 9, when it reached the maximum area (1.26 ± 0.32 cm2). No increase in size was detected on the subsequent days (P > 0.05). Plasma P4 levels increased until a maximum value on Day 9 (6.31 ± 0.46 ng mL–1), and no increase was observed further (P > 0.05). In nonpregnant animals (n = 7), luteolysis was characterized by an abrupt decrease in plasma P4 concentration, which dropped to values lower than 1 ng mL–1 24 h after the onset of the process, whereas luteal area decreased gradually. Plasma P4 concentration was correlated to luteal area during luteogenesis and luteolysis (r = 0.63 and r = 0.50, respectively; P < 0.05). Mean pixel value showed a progressive increase during luteogenesis and reached the maximum value on Day 13 (54.33 ± 1.83). During corpus luteum (CL) regression, mean pixel value decreased to lower values 48 h after the onset of natural luteolysis (P < 0.05). Through both luteogenesis and luteolysis, positive correlations were observed between mean pixel values and luteal area (r = 0.34 and r = 0.26, respectively; P < 0.05) and also between mean pixel values and plasma P4 concentration (r = 0.24 and r = 0.37, respectively; P < 0.05). Pixel heterogeneity was not correlated to luteal area nor plasma P4 levels. These results suggest an association between CL echotexture and steroidogenic function; therefore, the quantitative assessment of the pixel brightness has a potential to be used for luteal function evaluation in goats. FAPEMIG and CAPES.

scholarly journals 315 CORPORA LUTEA MORPHOLOGICAL AND ECHOTEXTURAL ATTRIBUTES RELATED TO PLASMA PROGESTERONE CONCENTRATION IN HEIFERS

2008 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 237
Author(s):  
L. G. B. Siqueira ◽  
J. H. M. Viana ◽  
C. A. A. Torres ◽  
E. D. Souza ◽  
L. S. Amorim ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Estrous Cycle ◽  
Ultrasound Image ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Progesterone Concentration ◽  
Plasma Progesterone ◽  
Functional Changes ◽  
Tissue Area ◽  
Luteal Tissue

It has been suggested that ultrasound image attributes are a potential indicator of the physiological and functional status of the corpus luteum (CL). The aim of this study was to evaluate corpus luteum morphological and echotextural changes, and to correlate these changes with plasma progesterone concentration [P4] throughout the bovine estrous cycle. Crossbred heifers were scanned daily, using a B-mode, real-time ultrasound machine equipped with a 5-MHz linear-array rectal transducer, throughout a natural estrous cycle (Experiment 1; n = 12) or during a shorter estrous cycle, interrupted on the 10th day, by luteolysis induction (Experiment 2; n = 6). Blood samples were collected for further plasma [P4] analyses by RIA. Corpora lutea areas (cm2) were measured, and daily images of each CL were videotaped (VHS tapes) until digitized. Computer-assisted analyses of image attributes were performed using a custom-developed software. Daily values of luteal area, echotexture, and plasma [P4] values were analyzed by ANOVA with Tukey's test to determine differences among means of each cycle day. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated between luteal area, mean pixel value, pixel heterogeneity, and plasma [P4]. In the first experiment, luteal tissue area increased to a maximum on the 10th day (P < 0.05), followed by a plateau, and then declined from Day 14 to next estrus. There was a significant correlation between luteal tissue area and plasma P4 (r = 0.69; P < 0.01). In the second experiment, plasma P4 dropped to basal values 24 h after luteolysis induction. Luteal tissue area decreased at a slow rate, and reached values similar to ones from metestrus 36 h after treatment. In Experiment 1, echotexture parameters of the CL were analyzed after data adjustment to the onset of luteolysis. In both experiments, mean pixel values did not change throughout the estrous cycle and there was no correlation between mean pixel values and plasma [P4] (P > 0.10). Pixel heterogeneity changed throughout the natural estrous cycle, with maximum value on metestrus (Day 14; Day 0 = luteolysis) and minimum on diestrus (Day 2; P < 0.01). However, this parameter did not change when luteolysis was induced (Experiment 2; P > 0.10). There were significant correlations between pixel heterogeneity and plasma progesterone in both of the experiments (r = –0.69 and r = –0.48; P < 0.05). In conclusion, mean pixel values do not reflect morphological or functional changes of the CL throughout the estrous cycle. On the other hand, based on the correlations between pixel heterogeneity and systemic [P4] in both experiments, this image attribute (heterogeneity) has the potential to indicate functionality and steroidogenic capacity of the luteal gland.

CHANGES IN THE DENSITY AND PROGESTERONE CONTENT OF LUTEAL TISSUE IN THE EGYPTIAN BUFFALO DURING THE OESTROUS CYCLE

1967 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 163-171 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. S. EL-SHEIKH ◽  
FRANÇOIS B. SAKLA ◽  
SAFAA O. AMIN
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Cell Volume ◽  
Distribution System ◽  
Oestrous Cycle ◽  
Luteal Cell ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Luteal Cells ◽  
Functional Changes ◽  
Parallel Increase ◽  
Luteal Tissue

SUMMARY The histological and functional changes of 31 corpora lutea of Egyptian buffaloes during the various phases of the oestrous cycle were studied. The volumes of the corpora lutea were calculated, the volume per cell, the cell volume and the volume of the intercellular spaces were estimated from transverse serial sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin, Mallory's triple stain or van Gieson's stain. The nuclear volumes were also determined and the cytoplasmic volume was calculated. The progesterone content was estimated using column absorption chromatography and a counter-current distribution system. It was concluded that the luteal cells increase both in volume and in number due to mitosis. The luteal cells decrease in volume after the 15th day after ovulation, the cells lose their distinct outlines in the regressive stage and disappear completely in the corpus albicans. There was a parallel increase in luteal cell volume and progesterone content until the 15th post-ovulatory day followed by a decrease in the regressive phase and disappearance of the hormone in the corpus albicans. A highly significant correlation (r = +0·875) was found between the progesterone content and the cytoplasmic volume. Progesterone concentration/g. luteal tissue increased from the corpus haemorrhagicum to the mature corpus luteum, decreased in the regressive corpus luteum and completely disappeared in the corpus albicans.

103 Effects of administration of human chorionic gonadotrophin at Day 5 post-ovulation on development of the original corpus luteum depend on the locational relationship between the original and accessory corpora lutea

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 177
Author(s):  
K. Hazano ◽  
S. Haneda ◽  
M. Matsui
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Chorionic Gonadotrophin ◽  
Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Intrauterine Environment ◽  
Prostaglandin F2a ◽  
Tissue Area ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Relationship Of

In cattle, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is administered at Day 5 post-ovulation to improve fertility. This treatment can induce ovulation of the first-wave dominant follicle (W1DF), from which an accessory corpus luteum (CL) is generated. In addition, hCG has the effect of promoting CL development. It is possible that the locational relationship between the original and accessary CLs influences the effect of hCG on CL development, because the locational relationship of the CLs affects intraovarian blood flow. The present study aimed to clarify whether the locational relationship between the original and accessory CLs influences the effect of hCG on their development. Cross-bred beef heifers (Holstein×Japanese Black, n=56) were used for the present study. The oestrus cycle was synchronized using oestradiol benzoate (EB) and a controlled internal drug release (CIDR)-based program. Briefly, an administration of EB (2mg) with 9-day CIDR insertion was followed by administration of prostaglandin F2a analogue (PGF2a) on the day of CIDR removal, EB (1mg) 1 day after a PGF2a injection, and GnRH 12h after the second EB injection. At Day 5 post-ovulation, the locational relationship between the original CL and the W1DF was confirmed using transrectal ultrasonography (USG), and two groups were defined: ipsilateral group (IG; n=30), in which the CL and the W1DF are in the same ovary, and contralateral group (CG; n=26), in which the CL and the W1DF are in separate ovaries. Moreover, IG and CG were respectively subdivided into two groups, with or without hCG (1500IU) treatment (IG/hCG, n=15; IG without hCG, n=15, and CG/hCG, n=14; CG without hCG, n=12). The diameter and luteal tissue area (i.e. minus the cavity area) of the original CL and the accessory CL were examined at Days 5, 7, and 14, using USG. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare the diameter and luteal tissue area between IG/hCG and IG without hCG, and between CG/hCG and CG without hCG. In CG, the diameter (P&lt;0.01) and luteal tissue area of the original CL (P&lt;0.001) at Day 7 was increased by receiving hCG, while it did not change in IG. The diameter and luteal tissue area of the original CL at Day 14 were not affected by the administration of hCG in either CG or IG. Moreover, for the accessory CL, no difference of the diameter and luteal tissue area was observed between CG and IG. The present study showed that hCG treatment at Day 5 post-ovulation stimulate the growth of the original CL at Day 7, when the original CL and accessory CL are on contralateral sides. Our results suggest that the effect of administration of the hCG at Day 5 post-ovulation on the original CL development depends on the locational relationship between the original and accessory CL (IG or CG). The function of the CL affects the intrauterine environment for embryonic development. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the effect of the hCG injection at Day 5 on the function of CL (i.e. plasma P4 concentration) in IG and CG, respectively.

Luteotrophic factors in hyperstimulated pseudopregnant rabbit: I – Evidence for aromatase activity in luteal tissue and luteal cells

1997 ◽  
Vol 154 (2) ◽  
pp. 249-257 ◽  
Author(s):  
R K Arioua ◽  
C Féral ◽  
A Benhaïm ◽  
B Delarue ◽  
P Leymarie
Keyword(s):  
Rabbit Model ◽  
Enzymatic Digestion ◽  
Small Cells ◽  
Luteal Cell ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Aromatase Activity ◽  
Luteal Cells ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Percoll Density Gradient

Abstract It is well established that the rabbit corpus luteum (CL) function depends upon endogenous oestradiol, the major source of which in the rabbit ovary is considered to be the ovarian follicles. The absence of oestradiol formation by the rabbit CL has been previously reported. In a hyperstimulated pseudopregnant rabbit model used in our laboratory which developed a large number of corpora lutea in response to chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG)/hCG, we observed the survival of corpora lutea in vivo, and normal levels of plasma progesterone throughout pseudopregnancy (PP), despite the scarcity or the absence of follicles as a source of the luteotrophic hormone. Measurement of oestradiol in the plasma indicated that it was at high levels and correlated with the number of corpora lutea. This led us to investigate the luteal origin of oestradiol in this model. PP was induced in rabbits by i.m. injection of 200 IU eCG daily for 2 days followed on day 4 by i.m. injection of 200 IU hCG (day 0 of PP). Luteal tissue obtained at days 5, 9 and 12 of PP and cultured for 24 h synthesized oestradiol and testosterone in addition to progesterone. However, under the same conditions, follicles had limited capacity to secrete oestradiol. The presence of an aromatase activity in luteal tissue was confirmed when exogenous testosterone was added to the culture medium. P450aromatase (P450arom) mRNA was found in luteal tissue at days 5, 9 and 12 of PP. Small or large luteal cells, obtained by enzymatic digestion of the tissue followed by centrifugation in a Percoll density gradient, were cultured during several days with or without gonadotrophin or dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP). Both types of cells secreted oestradiol. In small cells and luteal tissue, aromatase activity was stimulated (1·5–2-fold) by hCG and dbcAMP. Large cells exhibited a greater capacity to aromatize testosterone than small cells, but aromatase activity was not modified by hCG or by dbcAMP. FSH had no effect on aromatase activity of either luteal cell type. This intrinsic luteal tissue aromatase capacity and the absence of premature regression of corpora lutea despite the limited support of follicular oestrogen, suggest an autocrine and luteotrophic role for this luteal oestrogen. Journal of Endocrinology (1997) 154, 249–257

scholarly journals Luteal dynamics in goats: morphological and endocrine features

2010 ◽  
Vol 39 (9) ◽  
pp. 1937-1942 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eduardo Kenji Nunes Arashiro ◽  
João Henrique Moreira Viana ◽  
Jeferson Ferreira da Fonseca ◽  
Luiz Sérgio de Almeida Camargo ◽  
Carlos Antônio de Carvalho Fernandes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sharp Decrease ◽  
Maximum Size ◽  
Tissue Growth ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Multiple Ovulation ◽  
Tissue Area ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
The Moment ◽  
First Time ◽  
Endocrine Features

The aim of this study was to establish the morphologic and endocrine characteristics of luteal dynamics in goats. It was used Toggenburg female goats that showed natural estrus in a 48-hour interval. After estrus, ultrasonographic evaluations of the ovaries were daily performed during 21 days using a portable device (5MHz probe). Blood sample was collected for plasma progresterone (P4) determination. Corpora lutea were detected for the first time on day 5 and progressively increased in size until D9 (1.26 ± 0.08 cm²), with no variation on subsequent days. In females with one ovulation, the first visualization of the corpora lutea was earlier than in those with multiple ovulation (4.54 ± 0.18 vs 5.74 ± 0.25 days). At the moment of the first visualization, luteal area was smaller in animals with single ovulation. Plasma P4 concentration progressively increased until day 9 and it did not show significant increase until luteolysis, characterized by a sharp decrease in P4 concentration, reaching values below 1 ng/mL in 24 hours. The luteal area slowly and gradually decreased in size. It was observed a significant positive correlation between P4 concentration and area during luteogenesis and luteolysis (r = 0.63 and r = 0.50, respectively). When corpus luteum reached its maximum size (D9), female with more than one corpora lutea, with a greater luteal tissue area, did not show P4 concentration higher than those with one ovulation (5.92 ± 0.59 vs 7.04 ± 0.79 ng/mL). These results show that luteal dynamics in Toggenbur goats follow a similar pattern to those observed in other goat breeds and luteal tissue growth was positively correlated with corpora lutea functionality.

scholarly journals 312 LUTEAL MORPHOMETRIC PARAMETERS AND SONOGRAPHIC ECHOTEXTURE DURING LUTEOGENESIS PERIOD IN PREGNANT GOATS

2008 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 236
Author(s):  
E. K. N. Arashiro ◽  
J. H. M. Viana ◽  
J. F. Fonseca ◽  
L. G. B. Siqueira ◽  
J. H. Bruschi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Body Condition Score ◽  
Correlation Method ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Portable Ultrasound ◽  
Follicle Diameter ◽  
Ovulatory Follicle ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Condition Score ◽  
Mean Size ◽  
Pixel Value

Sonographic echotexture is an important parameter for corpora lutea (CL) evaluation, since it is related to variations on vascularization and histological features of CL and, consequently, to steroidogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the luteal dynamics and pixel value during the early luteogenic period in goats. Nuliparous Toggenburg females (n = 18) with an average age of 8 months, weight of 33.52 � 5.58 kg, and body condition score of 3.5 � 0.33 (1 to 5 scale) were used. Ovarian sonographic evaluations were performed daily for 21 days after natural estrus, using a portable ultrasound device (Aloka SSD 500, Aloka Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) equipped with an adapted linear rectal 5-MHz probe. CL and cavity areas were measured at their largest diameter. CL area minus the cavity area was considered luteal tissue. Images were digitalized in .TIFF format, at a 1500 � 1125 resolution, using a video capture board (Pinnacle DC10, Pinnacle Systems, Mountain View, CA, USA). Images recovered on Days 6, 8, 10, and 12 of the estrous cycle were analyzed using a custom software (Quantpro�). Each image dot (pixel) received a numeric value ranging from 0 (black) to 255 (white). Representative elementary area (REA) of 5625 pixels (0.31 cm2) was defined in the luteal tissue (proposed by Van den Bygaarty et al. 1999 Can. J. Soil Sci. 7, 149–160). Due to the possibility of early luteal regression, only data from pregnant animals (14/18, 77.8%) were used. Follicle diameter, CL area, and cavity were analyzed by ANOVA, and differences among means were evaluated by Tukey's test. Correlations were established by Pearson's correlation method. Results are presented as means � SEM. Mean diameter of ovulatory follicle was 0.75 � 0.01 cm. There was no significant correlation (P > 0.05) between ovulatory follicle diameter and CL area. CL were first visualized on Day 5.68 � 0.37 after the estrus, with a mean area of 0.56 � 0.05 cm2, and progressively increased in size (P < 0.001) until Day 12, reaching a maximum area of 1.18 � 0.06 cm2. A significant (P < 0.05) pixel value increase was observed from Days 6 to 12 of the cycle (42.79 � 5.06a; 47.90 � 4.51ab; 48.33 � 4.21b; and 52.95 � 4.65b, respectively, values with the same superscript not being significantly different). There was a significant positive correlation (R = 0.54, P < 0.0001) between luteal tissue area and pixel value during the luteogenesis period. In single ovulating goats (10/14; 71.42%), the mean time for the first CL visualization was lower (4.71 � 0.15 v. 6.78 � 0.89 days; P < 0.01) and the area of the CL on Day 12 was larger (1.32 � 0.04 v. 1.03 � 0.15 cm2; P < 0.01) than in goats with two or more ovulations, but there was no difference in luteal pixel value (52.32 � 3.19 v. 53.75 � 3.90; P > 0.05). The presence of luteal cavities was observed in 89.47% (17/19) of the CLs on the first day of visualization, with a mean size of 0.30 � 0.05 cm2, representing 45.31% of the total CL area and difficult echotexture analysis. These cavities progressively regressed (P < 0.01) until Day 11 of the cycle, with an area less than 0.1 cm2. These results show that pixel values are correlated to CL development in goats, suggesting an association between CL echotexture and steroidogenic function.

scholarly journals Ultrasound Characteristics of the Cavitary Corpus Luteum after Oestrus Synchronization in Heifers in Relation to the Results of Embryo Transfer

Animals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 1706
Author(s):  
Bartłomiej Maria Jaśkowski ◽  
Hartwig Bostedt ◽  
Marek Gehrke ◽  
Jędrzej Maria Jaśkowski
Keyword(s):  
Blood Serum ◽  
Functional Status ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Pregnancy Rate ◽  
Embryo Transfer ◽  
Progesterone Level ◽  
Blood Samples ◽  
Tissue Area ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Ultrasound Assessment

The aim of the study was to conduct an ultrasound analysis of quantitative parameters of the corpus luteum (CL) in recipient heifers on days 6–8 after oestrus, and to compare reproduction potential of both types of CL in those females. Analyses were performed on 300 heifers, synchronized with two injections of cloprostenol. Clinical and ultrasound examinations of ovaries were performed and measurements of the CL were recorded. The blood samples were taken to determine progesterone level. Pregnancy examination was conducted after 6–8 weeks from the ET. Cavitary CL was found in 32.7% heifers In 48.0% of the cavitary CL, its luteal tissue area was reduced by 14.3% compared to the compact CL, while 16.3% of the CL had luteal tissue reduced by more than 33.8%. Progesterone level in blood serum was higher in heifers with the cavitary CL (p < 0.001). Pregnancy rate was higher for females with a cavitary CL (52%) than those with compact ones (33%, p < 0.05). The ultrasound assessment of luteal tissue should be included in the evaluation of the functional status of the CL in ET-recipient heifers. The cavitary CL presence may indicate a higher potential of the recipient in maintaining the pregnancy.

Biodegradable polyester neuroprostheses promote the reconnection of separated peripheral nerve stubs

1992 ◽  
Vol 50 (2) ◽  
pp. 1094-1095
Author(s):  
Beverly L. Giammara ◽  
Jennifer S. Stevenson ◽  
Peggy E. Yates ◽  
Robert H. Gunderson ◽  
Jacob S. Hanker
Keyword(s):  
Image Analysis ◽  
Basement Membrane ◽  
Periodic Acid ◽  
Light And Electron Microscopy ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Type Iii Collagen ◽  
Image Analysis System ◽  
Biodegradable Polyester ◽  
Adult Rats ◽  
Type Iv

An 11mm length of sciatic nerve was removed from 10 anesthetized adult rats and replaced by a biodegradable polyester Vicryl™ mesh sleeve which was then injected with the basement membrane gel, Matrigel™. It was noted that leg sensation and movement were much improved after 30 to 45 days and upon sacrifice nerve reconnection was noted in all animals. Epoxy sections of the repaired nerves were compared with those of the excised segments by the use of a variation of the PAS reaction, the PATS reaction, developed in our laboratories for light and electron microscopy. This microwave-accelerated technique employs periodic acid, thiocarbohydrazide and silver methenamine. It stains basement membrane or Type IV collagen brown and type III collagen (reticulin), axons, Schwann cells, endoneurium and perineurium black. Epoxy sections of repaired and excised nerves were also compared by toluidine blue (tb) staining. Comparison of the sections of control and repaired nerves was done by computer-assisted microscopic image analysis using an Olympus CUE-2 Image Analysis System.

Localization of oxytocin and neurophysin in baboon (Papio anubis) corpus luteum by immunocytochemistry

1986 ◽  
Vol 113 (4) ◽  
pp. 570-575 ◽  
Author(s):  
Firyal S. Khan-Dawood
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Rabbit Serum ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Positive Staining ◽  
Normal Rabbit Serum ◽  
Fallopian Tubes ◽  
Papio Anubis ◽  
Luteal Cells ◽  
Luteal Tissue ◽  
Immunocytochemical Reaction

Abstract. Immunoreactive oxytocin is detectable in the corpora lutea of women and cynomolgus monkeys by radioimmunoassay. To localize the presence of oxytocin and neurophysin I in ovarian tissues of subhuman primates, three corpora lutea and ovarian stromal tissues and two Fallopian tubes obtained during the menstrual cycle of the baboon and decidua from two pregnant baboons were examined using highly specific antisera against either oxytocin or neurophysin I and preoxidase-antiperoxidase light microscopy immunohistochemistry. Oxytocin-like as well as neurophysin I-like immunoreactivities were found in some cells of all the corpora lutea only, but could not be demonstrated in ovarian stromal tissues, Fallopian tubes and decidua. Specificity of the immunocytochemical reaction was further confirmed by immunoabsorption of the antiserum with excess oxytocin or neurophysin, after which the immunoreactivities for both oxytocin and neurophysin in the luteal tissue were negative. Similar controls using normal rabbit serum gave no positive staining for either oxytocin or neurophysin. Counterstaining of the positive immunoreactivities for oxytocin and neurophysin I with Mayer's haematoxylin and eosin demonstrated clearly that the oxytocin and neurophysin I appeared as granular material mainly within the cytoplasm of the luteal cells. The localization of immunoreactive oxytocin and neurophysin I in the corpus luteum of the baboon demonstrates directly the presence of these two neurohypophysial peptides within primate luteal cells and suggests their local production.

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