[ Objective] To evaluate lactation performance of primiparous Nubian ewes and Yunling Black ewes. [ Method] Healthy primiparous Nubian ewes （20 ewes lambing twins and 19 ewes lambing single） and Yunling Black ewes ...[ Objective] To evaluate lactation performance of primiparous Nubian ewes and Yunling Black ewes. [ Method] Healthy primiparous Nubian ewes （20 ewes lambing twins and 19 ewes lambing single） and Yunling Black ewes （4 ewes lambing twins and 15 ewes lambing single） were used to study the effects of breeds and litter size on lactation performance. [Result] The total milk yield of the Nubian ewes lambing twins was 14.81% higher than that of the Nubian ewes lambing single （ P 〈 0.05） and 22.93% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins （ P 〈 0.05）. The total milk yield of the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins was 32.80% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing single （ P〈 0.05 ）, but the total milk yield of the Nubian ewes lambing single was 42.20% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing single （ P 〈 0.05）. The Nubian goats and the Yunling Black goats had similar lactation curves. The milk yield gradually increased during the early lactation period （5 - 15 d post partum）, and the lactation peak lasted for 20 d （15 -35 d post partum）. Then the milk yield gradually decreased. The predicted values showed the milk yield of the ewes may rapidly decrease during 80 -120 d post partum. Until Day 70 post partum, the Nubian ewes lambing twins had lost 3.06% more body weight than those lambing single had （P〈0.05）; the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins had lost 0.89% more body weight than those lambing single had （P〈0.05）. The Nubian ewes lambing lost 3.22% -5.39% more body weight than those with the same litter size did （ P 〈 0.05）. [ Conclusion] The regular pattern of primiparous lactation is similar between the Nubian ewes and the Yunling Black ewes, and their lactation performance is closely related to breeds and litter size.展开更多
The objective of this research was to investigate the biological and economical values of hydroponic barley (HB) on lactating Awassi ewes. A total of 48 lactating ewes were used in a feeding trial in two groups. The f...The objective of this research was to investigate the biological and economical values of hydroponic barley (HB) on lactating Awassi ewes. A total of 48 lactating ewes were used in a feeding trial in two groups. The first was fed a regular lactation TMR ration while ewes in the second treatment were fed similar ration except that regular wheat hay was totally replaced by HB for 120 days feeding trial. Results of the experiment showed that the green fodder yield in 8 days germination cycle was 7.5 kg per 1 kg barley grains of green fodder. HB had no effects on feed intake (FI), body weight changes, milk yield, and milk composition;however, HB had positive effects on ewe’s health conditions, mortalities, conception rates and abortion. In conclusion, HB can be used as feed for lactating sheep as cost of feed can be reduced by 42%.展开更多
In a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, 3 levels of L-arginine (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg BW per day) were tested at two stages of pregnancy (Early 60 days vs. Late 60 days) on the maternal blood metabolites and postnatal mi...In a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, 3 levels of L-arginine (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg BW per day) were tested at two stages of pregnancy (Early 60 days vs. Late 60 days) on the maternal blood metabolites and postnatal milk composition relative to the newborn traits of Najdi ewes. Thirty adult pregnant Najdi ewes were randomly assigned into 6 treatments (n = 5). Control early (CE) ewes were orally administered 50 mL normal saline (0.9% NaCl) daily during the first 60 days of pregnancy;control late (CL) ewes were similar to CE except saline was given at the last 60 days of pregnancy;low dose of L-arginine at early pregnancy (LE);low dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (LL);high dose of L-arginine at early (HE) and high dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (HL). Blood and milk samples were collected on a weekly basis. Data of lambing and newborn traits were considered. There were non-significant differences in litter size due to L-arginine;however lamb birth and weaning weights increased by 35% in LE-ewes. Arginine did not change blood protein and albumin. Low arginine decreased lipid fractions, creatinine, urea, and milk fat;however, it increased AST, ALT, milk lactose and milk ash. Administration of L-arginine at 75 mg/Kg BW per day for 60 days at an early gestation in ewes improved the maternal body health and milk composition for the welfare of the neonates.展开更多
Background： Interleukin-1β（IL-1β） is important mediator of inflammatory-induced suppression of reproductive axis at the hypothalamic level. At the beginning of inflammation, the main source of cytokines in the ce...Background： Interleukin-1β（IL-1β） is important mediator of inflammatory-induced suppression of reproductive axis at the hypothalamic level. At the beginning of inflammation, the main source of cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid（CSF） is peripheral circulation, while over time, cytokines produced in the brain are more important. Melatonin has been shown to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines concentration in the brain. In ewes, melatonin is used to advance the onset of a breading season. Little is known about CSF concentration of IL-1β in ewes and its correlation with plasma during inflammation as well as melatonin action on the concentration of IL-1β in blood plasma and the CSF, and brain barriers permeability in early stage of lipopolysaccharide（LPS）-induced inflammation.Methods： Systemic inflammation was induced through LPS administration in melatonin-and sham-implanted ewes. Blood and CSF samples were collected before and after LPS administration and IL-1β and albumin concentration were measured. To assess the functions of brain barriers albumin quotient（QAlb） was used.Expression of IL-1β（Il1B） and its receptor type Ⅰ（Il1r1） and type Ⅱ（Il1r2） and matrix metalloproteinase（Mmp） 3 and 9 was evaluated in the choroid plexus（CP）.Results： Before LPS administration, IL-1β was on the level of 62.0 ± 29.7 pg/mL and 66.4 ± 32.1 pg/mL in plasma and 26.2 ± 5.4 pg/mL and 21.3 ± 8.7 pg/mL in the CSF in sham-and melatonin-implanted group, respectively.Following LPS it increased to 159.3 ± 53.1 pg/mL and 197.8 ± 42.8 pg/mL in plasma and 129.8 ± 54.2 pg/mL and139.6 ± 51.5 pg/mL in the CSF. No correlations was found between plasma and CSF IL-1β concentration after LPS in both groups. The QAlb calculated before LPS and 6 h after was similar in all groups. Melatonin did not affected m RNA expression of Il1B, Il1r1 and Il1r2 in the CP. The m RNA expression of Mmp3 and Mmp9 was not detected.Conclusions： The lack of correlation between plasma and CSF IL-1β concentration indicates that at the beginning of inflammation the local synthesis of IL-1β in the CP is an important source of IL-1β in the CSF. Melatonin from slow-release implants does not affect IL-1β concentration in plasma and CSF in early stage of systemic inflammation.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the energetic profile of fetal fluids and to make comparisons of the concentrations of the constituents present with those in the maternal plasma.Methods: A study was conducted in 102 gravid she...Objective: To evaluate the energetic profile of fetal fluids and to make comparisons of the concentrations of the constituents present with those in the maternal plasma.Methods: A study was conducted in 102 gravid sheep uteri. The four stages of gestation as Stage I(0–60 days), Stage II(61–90 days), Stage III(91–120 days) and Stage IV(121–145 days) were identified based on the crown anus length of the embryo/fetus. The amniotic and allantoic fluids collected from the gravid uteri of each group were subjected to biochemical analysis of glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride.Results: The levels of glucose and triglyceride in maternal plasma were lower(P < 0.05)on late pregnancy as well as in amniotic and allantoic fluids. No significant variation(P > 0.05) of plasma cholesterol levels was detected between the sampling periods.Contrariwise, cholesterol concentrations of fetal fluids were higher in Stages III and IV of pregnancy when compared with the Stages I and II.Conclusions: The influence of pregnancy on the biochemical composition of fetal fluids was statistically significant.展开更多
Background:Implantation failure limits the success of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Wellorganized embryo-maternal crosstalk is essential for successful implantation.Previous studies mainly focused...Background:Implantation failure limits the success of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Wellorganized embryo-maternal crosstalk is essential for successful implantation.Previous studies mainly focused on the aberrant development of in vitro fertilized(IVF)embryos.In contrast,the mechanism of IVF-induced aberrant embryo-maternal crosstalk is not well defined.Results:In the present study,using ewes as the model,we profiled the proteome that features aberrant IVF embryo-maternal crosstalk following IVF-ET.By comparing in vivo(IVO)and IVF conceptuses,as well as matched endometrial caruncular(C)and intercaruncular(IC)areas,we filtered out 207,295,and 403 differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)in each comparison.Proteome functional analysis showed that the IVF conceptuses were characterized by the increased abundance of energy metabolism and proliferation-related proteins,and the decreased abundance of methyl metabolism-related proteins.In addition,IVF endometrial C areas showed the decreased abundance of endometrial remodeling and redox homeostasis-related proteins;while IC areas displayed the aberrant abundance of protein homeostasis and extracellular matrix(ECM)interaction-related proteins.Based on these observations,we propose a model depicting the disrupted embryo-maternal crosstalk following IVF-ET:Aberrant energy metabolism and redox homeostasis of IVF embryos,might lead to an aberrant endometrial response to conceptus-derived pregnancy signals,thus impairing maternal receptivity.In turn,the suboptimal uterine environment might stimulate a compensation effect of the IVF conceptuses,which was revealed as enhanced energy metabolism and over-proliferation.Conclusion:Systematic proteomic profiling provides insights to understand the mechanisms that underlie the aberrant IVF embryo-maternal crosstalk.This might be helpful to develop practical strategies to prevent implantation failure following IVF-ET.展开更多
Objective:To determine the effect of different cervical dilators on cervical dilation and reproductive performance of fat-tailed ewes.Methods: In experiment 1140 ewes were divided into seven groups with seven differen...Objective:To determine the effect of different cervical dilators on cervical dilation and reproductive performance of fat-tailed ewes.Methods: In experiment 1140 ewes were divided into seven groups with seven different treatments as following: 10 mL normal saline (control group), 100 IU oxytocin (OT group), 100 μg estradiol and 100 IU oxytocin (E2+OT group), 5 mL relaxin (R group), 2 mL sensiblex (SEN group), 200 μg misoprostol (MIS group) or 200 μg dinoprostone (DIN group). In experiment 2, artificial insemination was applied for evaluation of reproductive performance in experimental groups.Results: In experiment 1, the highest cervical dilation was observed in OT (90%) and E2+OT (100%) groups (P<0.05), while no significant differences was found among DIN, MIS, SEN and R groups (80%, 75%, 70% and 65%, respectively). In addition, the lowest cervical dilation was observed in control group. Experiment 2 found no significant differences among control, OT and E2+OT groups. The highest pregnancy rate, parturition rate and lambing rate were observed in OT groups (60%, 60% and 70%, respectively) and E2+OT groups (65%, 60% and 70%, respectively) compared to SEN, R, MIS and DIN groups (P<0.05).Conclusions:Oxytocin treatment alone or with estradiol could be used as a suitable dilator for improving reproductive efficiency during artificial insemination in fat-tailed ewes.展开更多
A total of one hundred and ten healthy dry ewes of Arabi sheep diffusive in three geographic locations in the north of Basrah (AL-Qurna, Al-Midaina and Al-Uazair) were divided into three different age groups: 3 years ...A total of one hundred and ten healthy dry ewes of Arabi sheep diffusive in three geographic locations in the north of Basrah (AL-Qurna, Al-Midaina and Al-Uazair) were divided into three different age groups: 3 years old, to investigate the influence of geographic location and age on the concentration of some biochemical parameters of sheep in the south of Iraq. The results showed significant (P < 0.05) changes among geographic locations in some bio-chemical parameters such as cholesterol, glucose, estridol and growth hormone concentrations. No significant differences were presented in concentrations of total protein, albumin, Fe, phosphorus, ascorbic acid, LH, T3 and T4 hormones in the blood of ewes in different geographic locations. The concentrations of cholesterol, T3 and T4 hormones decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while, the concentrations of glucose and estradiol hormone increased significantly (P < 0.01) in adult ewes compared with younger ewes.展开更多
This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of underfed Hu ewes from d 35 to110 of gestation with either rumen-protected L-arginine(RP-Arg)or N-carbamylglutamate(NCG)on placental amino acid(...This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of underfed Hu ewes from d 35 to110 of gestation with either rumen-protected L-arginine(RP-Arg)or N-carbamylglutamate(NCG)on placental amino acid(AA)transport,angiogenic gene expression,and steroid anabolism.On d 35 of gestation,32 Hu ewes carrying twin fetuses were randomly divided into four treatment groups,each consisting of eight ewes,and were fed the following diets:A diet providing 100%of NRC’s nutrient requirements for pregnant ewes(CON);A diet providing 50%of NRC’s nutrient requirements for pregnant ewes(RES);RES diet plus 5 g/d NCG(RES+NCG);or RES diet plus 20 g/d RP-Arg(RES+ARG).On the d 110 of pregnancy,blood samples were taken from the mother,and samples were collected from type A cotyledons(COT;the fetal portions of the placenta).The levels of 17β-estradiol and progesterone in the maternal serum and both the capillary area density(CAD)and capillary surface density(CSD)in type A COT were decreased in response to Arg or NCG supplementation when compared to the RES group.The concentrations of arginine,leucine,putrescine and spermidine in type A COT were higher(P<0.05)in the RES+ARG or RES+NCG group than in the RES group.The mRNA expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and solute carrier family 15,member 1(SLC15A1)were increased(P<0.05)while those of progesterone receptor(PGR)and fibroblast growth factor 2(FGF2)were decreased in type A COT by supplementation with either NCG or RP-Arg compared to the RES group.The results suggest that providing underfed pregnant ewes from d 35 to 110 of gestation with a diet supplemented with NCG or RP-Arg improves placental AA transport,and reduces the expression of angiogenic growth factor genes and steroid anabolism,leading to better fetal development.展开更多
This study investigated the effects of hormonal status; metabolic changes of restricted ewes during late pregnancy on the ovine fetus growth; development. One hundred Mongolian ewes, synchronized for oestrus; mated, w...This study investigated the effects of hormonal status; metabolic changes of restricted ewes during late pregnancy on the ovine fetus growth; development. One hundred Mongolian ewes, synchronized for oestrus; mated, were divided into three groups; offered 0.175 MJME·kgw[0.75]·d[1] (Restricted Group 1, RG1), 0.33 MJME·kgw[0.75]·d[1] (Restricted Group 2, RG2); ad libitum access to feed (Control Group, CG) during their late pregnancy respectively. The results suggested that with the supply of exogenous energy decreasing during late pregnancy, maternal body weight; net body weight loss in RG2; RG1 were lower than those of CG (Ps0.01). The insulin; IGF-1 concentrations of ewes in RG2; RG1 tended to be lower than those of CG (P】0.05), but the GH concentrations in RG2; RG1 were enhanced; there was significant difference between RG1; CG on d 120 of gestation (P【0.05). The glucose concentration of ewes in RG2; RG1 was decreased throughout the feed restriction period,; the differences were observed between RG1; CG on d 120 of gestation (P【0.05). In addition, the nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA); total amino acid (TAA) concentrations of ewes in RG2 tended to increase, but there was no significant difference (P】0.05). However, the NEFA; FAA concentrations of ewes in RG1 were reduced from d 90 to d 120 of gestation, then enhanced from d 120 to d 140 of gestation. During the late pregnancy, with the supply of nutrition decreasing, the negatively physiological; biochemical maternal reactions to restriction became worse, which significantly reduced the average lamb birth weight; daily growth rate of fetus in RG2 (P【0.05); RG1 (P【0.01).展开更多
In order to investigate the behavioral responses of pregnant ewes to high ambient temperature in a loose housing system,eighty-seven pregnant ewes(Chinese little fat-tailed sheep,Ovis aries)from the same loose house w...In order to investigate the behavioral responses of pregnant ewes to high ambient temperature in a loose housing system,eighty-seven pregnant ewes(Chinese little fat-tailed sheep,Ovis aries)from the same loose house were chosen,and nine ewes with the similar body weight and age were marked for later individual behavioral observation.The ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded,and the individual behaviors of the pregnant ewes were observed continuously from 04:50 to 20:00 once every other day for 14 days.The behavioral state of all the pregnant ewes was recorded once every hour from 5:00 to 20:00,the number of pregnant ewes selecting specific lying areas(designated as area A and area B),was recorded at 15 minute intervals from 12:00 to 17:00 everyday.The final results show that the behavioral durations are significantly different in eating and drinking,rumination,rest,and locomotion for pregnant ewes(P<0.05).The time spent in lying for rumination or rest is significantly longer than that for locomotion(P<0.05).Temperature has a significant effect on the number of pregnant ewes lying on the floor(P<0.05).There are significant differences for pregnant ewes’preference of area A and area B for lying at temperatures ranging from 27.0℃to 31.0℃(P<0.05).The results indicate that the lying behavior is significantly more than the locomotion behavior for the pregnant ewes in the loose housing systems under the high ambient temperature.展开更多
Real-time assessment of slope reinforcements to diagnose their state in all stages of service life is imperative for prompt evaluation of slope stability and establishing an efficient early warning(EW)system.Many poin...Real-time assessment of slope reinforcements to diagnose their state in all stages of service life is imperative for prompt evaluation of slope stability and establishing an efficient early warning(EW)system.Many point-based monitoring instruments have been used in the last few decades.However,these sensors suffer from a particular risk of detection failures and practical limitations.Fibre-optic sensing(FOS)technologies have been developed,tested,and validated across various geoengineering applications,including slope monitoring,as they offer exceptional advantages,such as high data-carrying capacity,precise mapping of physical parameters,durability,and immunity to electromagnetic interference.The deformation of rock/soil causes the deformation and fracture of reinforcement materials,which are subsequently transferred to the encapsulated fibre-optic(FO)sensors,providing valuable information on reinforcements'safety state and performance for early failure detection.This paper is devoted to critically analysing the application of cutting-edge FOS technologies for slope reinforcement monitoring.Firstly,a concise overview of the fundamental principles underlying discrete and distributed FOS methods is provided.The key considerations for selecting FO cables and the appropriate packaging techniques necessary to withstand the challenges posed by complex geological environments are also summarised.We delve into the details of three distinct cable installation techniques within slope reinforcement components:surface bonding,slot embedment,and clamping.The recent advancements in FOS methods for monitoring slope reinforcements such as rock bolts,soil nails,anti-slide piles,geosynthetics,and retaining walls are extensively reviewed.The paper addresses this novel sensing technique's challenges and comprehensively explores its prospects.This review is anticipated to be a valuable resource for geoengineers and researchers involved in slope monitoring through FOS technology,offering insightful perspectives and guidance.展开更多
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation Major Research Project of Yunnan Province (2004NG04)
文摘[ Objective] To evaluate lactation performance of primiparous Nubian ewes and Yunling Black ewes. [ Method] Healthy primiparous Nubian ewes （20 ewes lambing twins and 19 ewes lambing single） and Yunling Black ewes （4 ewes lambing twins and 15 ewes lambing single） were used to study the effects of breeds and litter size on lactation performance. [Result] The total milk yield of the Nubian ewes lambing twins was 14.81% higher than that of the Nubian ewes lambing single （ P 〈 0.05） and 22.93% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins （ P 〈 0.05）. The total milk yield of the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins was 32.80% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing single （ P〈 0.05 ）, but the total milk yield of the Nubian ewes lambing single was 42.20% higher than that of the Yunling Black ewes lambing single （ P 〈 0.05）. The Nubian goats and the Yunling Black goats had similar lactation curves. The milk yield gradually increased during the early lactation period （5 - 15 d post partum）, and the lactation peak lasted for 20 d （15 -35 d post partum）. Then the milk yield gradually decreased. The predicted values showed the milk yield of the ewes may rapidly decrease during 80 -120 d post partum. Until Day 70 post partum, the Nubian ewes lambing twins had lost 3.06% more body weight than those lambing single had （P〈0.05）; the Yunling Black ewes lambing twins had lost 0.89% more body weight than those lambing single had （P〈0.05）. The Nubian ewes lambing lost 3.22% -5.39% more body weight than those with the same litter size did （ P 〈 0.05）. [ Conclusion] The regular pattern of primiparous lactation is similar between the Nubian ewes and the Yunling Black ewes, and their lactation performance is closely related to breeds and litter size.
文摘The objective of this research was to investigate the biological and economical values of hydroponic barley (HB) on lactating Awassi ewes. A total of 48 lactating ewes were used in a feeding trial in two groups. The first was fed a regular lactation TMR ration while ewes in the second treatment were fed similar ration except that regular wheat hay was totally replaced by HB for 120 days feeding trial. Results of the experiment showed that the green fodder yield in 8 days germination cycle was 7.5 kg per 1 kg barley grains of green fodder. HB had no effects on feed intake (FI), body weight changes, milk yield, and milk composition;however, HB had positive effects on ewe’s health conditions, mortalities, conception rates and abortion. In conclusion, HB can be used as feed for lactating sheep as cost of feed can be reduced by 42%.
文摘In a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, 3 levels of L-arginine (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg BW per day) were tested at two stages of pregnancy (Early 60 days vs. Late 60 days) on the maternal blood metabolites and postnatal milk composition relative to the newborn traits of Najdi ewes. Thirty adult pregnant Najdi ewes were randomly assigned into 6 treatments (n = 5). Control early (CE) ewes were orally administered 50 mL normal saline (0.9% NaCl) daily during the first 60 days of pregnancy;control late (CL) ewes were similar to CE except saline was given at the last 60 days of pregnancy;low dose of L-arginine at early pregnancy (LE);low dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (LL);high dose of L-arginine at early (HE) and high dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (HL). Blood and milk samples were collected on a weekly basis. Data of lambing and newborn traits were considered. There were non-significant differences in litter size due to L-arginine;however lamb birth and weaning weights increased by 35% in LE-ewes. Arginine did not change blood protein and albumin. Low arginine decreased lipid fractions, creatinine, urea, and milk fat;however, it increased AST, ALT, milk lactose and milk ash. Administration of L-arginine at 75 mg/Kg BW per day for 60 days at an early gestation in ewes improved the maternal body health and milk composition for the welfare of the neonates.
基金supported by a project funded by the National Science Centre allocated on the basis of decision-DEC 2011/03/B/NZ9/00118supported by Ministry of Science and High Education
文摘Background： Interleukin-1β（IL-1β） is important mediator of inflammatory-induced suppression of reproductive axis at the hypothalamic level. At the beginning of inflammation, the main source of cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid（CSF） is peripheral circulation, while over time, cytokines produced in the brain are more important. Melatonin has been shown to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines concentration in the brain. In ewes, melatonin is used to advance the onset of a breading season. Little is known about CSF concentration of IL-1β in ewes and its correlation with plasma during inflammation as well as melatonin action on the concentration of IL-1β in blood plasma and the CSF, and brain barriers permeability in early stage of lipopolysaccharide（LPS）-induced inflammation.Methods： Systemic inflammation was induced through LPS administration in melatonin-and sham-implanted ewes. Blood and CSF samples were collected before and after LPS administration and IL-1β and albumin concentration were measured. To assess the functions of brain barriers albumin quotient（QAlb） was used.Expression of IL-1β（Il1B） and its receptor type Ⅰ（Il1r1） and type Ⅱ（Il1r2） and matrix metalloproteinase（Mmp） 3 and 9 was evaluated in the choroid plexus（CP）.Results： Before LPS administration, IL-1β was on the level of 62.0 ± 29.7 pg/mL and 66.4 ± 32.1 pg/mL in plasma and 26.2 ± 5.4 pg/mL and 21.3 ± 8.7 pg/mL in the CSF in sham-and melatonin-implanted group, respectively.Following LPS it increased to 159.3 ± 53.1 pg/mL and 197.8 ± 42.8 pg/mL in plasma and 129.8 ± 54.2 pg/mL and139.6 ± 51.5 pg/mL in the CSF. No correlations was found between plasma and CSF IL-1β concentration after LPS in both groups. The QAlb calculated before LPS and 6 h after was similar in all groups. Melatonin did not affected m RNA expression of Il1B, Il1r1 and Il1r2 in the CP. The m RNA expression of Mmp3 and Mmp9 was not detected.Conclusions： The lack of correlation between plasma and CSF IL-1β concentration indicates that at the beginning of inflammation the local synthesis of IL-1β in the CP is an important source of IL-1β in the CSF. Melatonin from slow-release implants does not affect IL-1β concentration in plasma and CSF in early stage of systemic inflammation.
文摘Objective: To evaluate the energetic profile of fetal fluids and to make comparisons of the concentrations of the constituents present with those in the maternal plasma.Methods: A study was conducted in 102 gravid sheep uteri. The four stages of gestation as Stage I(0–60 days), Stage II(61–90 days), Stage III(91–120 days) and Stage IV(121–145 days) were identified based on the crown anus length of the embryo/fetus. The amniotic and allantoic fluids collected from the gravid uteri of each group were subjected to biochemical analysis of glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride.Results: The levels of glucose and triglyceride in maternal plasma were lower(P < 0.05)on late pregnancy as well as in amniotic and allantoic fluids. No significant variation(P > 0.05) of plasma cholesterol levels was detected between the sampling periods.Contrariwise, cholesterol concentrations of fetal fluids were higher in Stages III and IV of pregnancy when compared with the Stages I and II.Conclusions: The influence of pregnancy on the biochemical composition of fetal fluids was statistically significant.
基金supported by the grants from National Key R&D Program(2017YFD0501901 and 2017YFD0501905)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.3167246 and 31972573)+1 种基金National Support Program for Youth Top-notch Talentsthe Earmarked Fund for the Innovative Teams of Beijing Swine Industrialization Research Program.
文摘Background:Implantation failure limits the success of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Wellorganized embryo-maternal crosstalk is essential for successful implantation.Previous studies mainly focused on the aberrant development of in vitro fertilized(IVF)embryos.In contrast,the mechanism of IVF-induced aberrant embryo-maternal crosstalk is not well defined.Results:In the present study,using ewes as the model,we profiled the proteome that features aberrant IVF embryo-maternal crosstalk following IVF-ET.By comparing in vivo(IVO)and IVF conceptuses,as well as matched endometrial caruncular(C)and intercaruncular(IC)areas,we filtered out 207,295,and 403 differentially expressed proteins(DEPs)in each comparison.Proteome functional analysis showed that the IVF conceptuses were characterized by the increased abundance of energy metabolism and proliferation-related proteins,and the decreased abundance of methyl metabolism-related proteins.In addition,IVF endometrial C areas showed the decreased abundance of endometrial remodeling and redox homeostasis-related proteins;while IC areas displayed the aberrant abundance of protein homeostasis and extracellular matrix(ECM)interaction-related proteins.Based on these observations,we propose a model depicting the disrupted embryo-maternal crosstalk following IVF-ET:Aberrant energy metabolism and redox homeostasis of IVF embryos,might lead to an aberrant endometrial response to conceptus-derived pregnancy signals,thus impairing maternal receptivity.In turn,the suboptimal uterine environment might stimulate a compensation effect of the IVF conceptuses,which was revealed as enhanced energy metabolism and over-proliferation.Conclusion:Systematic proteomic profiling provides insights to understand the mechanisms that underlie the aberrant IVF embryo-maternal crosstalk.This might be helpful to develop practical strategies to prevent implantation failure following IVF-ET.
文摘Objective:To determine the effect of different cervical dilators on cervical dilation and reproductive performance of fat-tailed ewes.Methods: In experiment 1140 ewes were divided into seven groups with seven different treatments as following: 10 mL normal saline (control group), 100 IU oxytocin (OT group), 100 μg estradiol and 100 IU oxytocin (E2+OT group), 5 mL relaxin (R group), 2 mL sensiblex (SEN group), 200 μg misoprostol (MIS group) or 200 μg dinoprostone (DIN group). In experiment 2, artificial insemination was applied for evaluation of reproductive performance in experimental groups.Results: In experiment 1, the highest cervical dilation was observed in OT (90%) and E2+OT (100%) groups (P<0.05), while no significant differences was found among DIN, MIS, SEN and R groups (80%, 75%, 70% and 65%, respectively). In addition, the lowest cervical dilation was observed in control group. Experiment 2 found no significant differences among control, OT and E2+OT groups. The highest pregnancy rate, parturition rate and lambing rate were observed in OT groups (60%, 60% and 70%, respectively) and E2+OT groups (65%, 60% and 70%, respectively) compared to SEN, R, MIS and DIN groups (P<0.05).Conclusions:Oxytocin treatment alone or with estradiol could be used as a suitable dilator for improving reproductive efficiency during artificial insemination in fat-tailed ewes.
文摘A total of one hundred and ten healthy dry ewes of Arabi sheep diffusive in three geographic locations in the north of Basrah (AL-Qurna, Al-Midaina and Al-Uazair) were divided into three different age groups: 3 years old, to investigate the influence of geographic location and age on the concentration of some biochemical parameters of sheep in the south of Iraq. The results showed significant (P < 0.05) changes among geographic locations in some bio-chemical parameters such as cholesterol, glucose, estridol and growth hormone concentrations. No significant differences were presented in concentrations of total protein, albumin, Fe, phosphorus, ascorbic acid, LH, T3 and T4 hormones in the blood of ewes in different geographic locations. The concentrations of cholesterol, T3 and T4 hormones decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while, the concentrations of glucose and estradiol hormone increased significantly (P < 0.01) in adult ewes compared with younger ewes.
基金The research was supported by the fund for the Top Talents Award Plan of Yangzhou University(2020)the Cyanine Project of Yangzhou University(2020).
文摘This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of underfed Hu ewes from d 35 to110 of gestation with either rumen-protected L-arginine(RP-Arg)or N-carbamylglutamate(NCG)on placental amino acid(AA)transport,angiogenic gene expression,and steroid anabolism.On d 35 of gestation,32 Hu ewes carrying twin fetuses were randomly divided into four treatment groups,each consisting of eight ewes,and were fed the following diets:A diet providing 100%of NRC’s nutrient requirements for pregnant ewes(CON);A diet providing 50%of NRC’s nutrient requirements for pregnant ewes(RES);RES diet plus 5 g/d NCG(RES+NCG);or RES diet plus 20 g/d RP-Arg(RES+ARG).On the d 110 of pregnancy,blood samples were taken from the mother,and samples were collected from type A cotyledons(COT;the fetal portions of the placenta).The levels of 17β-estradiol and progesterone in the maternal serum and both the capillary area density(CAD)and capillary surface density(CSD)in type A COT were decreased in response to Arg or NCG supplementation when compared to the RES group.The concentrations of arginine,leucine,putrescine and spermidine in type A COT were higher(P<0.05)in the RES+ARG or RES+NCG group than in the RES group.The mRNA expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and solute carrier family 15,member 1(SLC15A1)were increased(P<0.05)while those of progesterone receptor(PGR)and fibroblast growth factor 2(FGF2)were decreased in type A COT by supplementation with either NCG or RP-Arg compared to the RES group.The results suggest that providing underfed pregnant ewes from d 35 to 110 of gestation with a diet supplemented with NCG or RP-Arg improves placental AA transport,and reduces the expression of angiogenic growth factor genes and steroid anabolism,leading to better fetal development.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation ( NSFC) of China (Grant Nos. 30460095 and 30360074)Doctoral Fund of Ministry of Education of China (20060129008)Scientific Research Foundation for Doctor of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University (BJ06-36)
文摘This study investigated the effects of hormonal status; metabolic changes of restricted ewes during late pregnancy on the ovine fetus growth; development. One hundred Mongolian ewes, synchronized for oestrus; mated, were divided into three groups; offered 0.175 MJME·kgw[0.75]·d[1] (Restricted Group 1, RG1), 0.33 MJME·kgw[0.75]·d[1] (Restricted Group 2, RG2); ad libitum access to feed (Control Group, CG) during their late pregnancy respectively. The results suggested that with the supply of exogenous energy decreasing during late pregnancy, maternal body weight; net body weight loss in RG2; RG1 were lower than those of CG (Ps0.01). The insulin; IGF-1 concentrations of ewes in RG2; RG1 tended to be lower than those of CG (P】0.05), but the GH concentrations in RG2; RG1 were enhanced; there was significant difference between RG1; CG on d 120 of gestation (P【0.05). The glucose concentration of ewes in RG2; RG1 was decreased throughout the feed restriction period,; the differences were observed between RG1; CG on d 120 of gestation (P【0.05). In addition, the nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA); total amino acid (TAA) concentrations of ewes in RG2 tended to increase, but there was no significant difference (P】0.05). However, the NEFA; FAA concentrations of ewes in RG1 were reduced from d 90 to d 120 of gestation, then enhanced from d 120 to d 140 of gestation. During the late pregnancy, with the supply of nutrition decreasing, the negatively physiological; biochemical maternal reactions to restriction became worse, which significantly reduced the average lamb birth weight; daily growth rate of fetus in RG2 (P【0.05); RG1 (P【0.01).
基金The authors wish to thank the National“Eleventh Five-year Science and Technology Plan”(2006BAD14B01 and 2006BAD14B02)the Co-Construction Item of the Constructive Program from the Beijing Educational Committee(XK100190650)for providing financial support.
文摘In order to investigate the behavioral responses of pregnant ewes to high ambient temperature in a loose housing system,eighty-seven pregnant ewes(Chinese little fat-tailed sheep,Ovis aries)from the same loose house were chosen,and nine ewes with the similar body weight and age were marked for later individual behavioral observation.The ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded,and the individual behaviors of the pregnant ewes were observed continuously from 04:50 to 20:00 once every other day for 14 days.The behavioral state of all the pregnant ewes was recorded once every hour from 5:00 to 20:00,the number of pregnant ewes selecting specific lying areas(designated as area A and area B),was recorded at 15 minute intervals from 12:00 to 17:00 everyday.The final results show that the behavioral durations are significantly different in eating and drinking,rumination,rest,and locomotion for pregnant ewes(P<0.05).The time spent in lying for rumination or rest is significantly longer than that for locomotion(P<0.05).Temperature has a significant effect on the number of pregnant ewes lying on the floor(P<0.05).There are significant differences for pregnant ewes’preference of area A and area B for lying at temperatures ranging from 27.0℃to 31.0℃(P<0.05).The results indicate that the lying behavior is significantly more than the locomotion behavior for the pregnant ewes in the loose housing systems under the high ambient temperature.
基金funding support from JSPS KAKENHI(Grant Nos.21H01593 and 21K18794)through Tetsuya KogureThis work was also partially supported by the Sasakawa Scientific Research Grant(2023e2026)from the Japan Science Society(JSS)through Ashis Acharya.
文摘Real-time assessment of slope reinforcements to diagnose their state in all stages of service life is imperative for prompt evaluation of slope stability and establishing an efficient early warning(EW)system.Many point-based monitoring instruments have been used in the last few decades.However,these sensors suffer from a particular risk of detection failures and practical limitations.Fibre-optic sensing(FOS)technologies have been developed,tested,and validated across various geoengineering applications,including slope monitoring,as they offer exceptional advantages,such as high data-carrying capacity,precise mapping of physical parameters,durability,and immunity to electromagnetic interference.The deformation of rock/soil causes the deformation and fracture of reinforcement materials,which are subsequently transferred to the encapsulated fibre-optic(FO)sensors,providing valuable information on reinforcements'safety state and performance for early failure detection.This paper is devoted to critically analysing the application of cutting-edge FOS technologies for slope reinforcement monitoring.Firstly,a concise overview of the fundamental principles underlying discrete and distributed FOS methods is provided.The key considerations for selecting FO cables and the appropriate packaging techniques necessary to withstand the challenges posed by complex geological environments are also summarised.We delve into the details of three distinct cable installation techniques within slope reinforcement components:surface bonding,slot embedment,and clamping.The recent advancements in FOS methods for monitoring slope reinforcements such as rock bolts,soil nails,anti-slide piles,geosynthetics,and retaining walls are extensively reviewed.The paper addresses this novel sensing technique's challenges and comprehensively explores its prospects.This review is anticipated to be a valuable resource for geoengineers and researchers involved in slope monitoring through FOS technology,offering insightful perspectives and guidance.
