The Effect of Nanosilicates on the Performance of Polyethylene Terephthalate Films Prepared by Twin-Screw Extrusion

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films were prepared by cast extrusion using a twin-screw extruder with a severe screw profile. The effect of an organically modified montmorillonite on thermal, mechanical, optical, and barrier properties of the PET films were investigated. Morphological characterization of the nanocomposite films was performed by employing wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) followed by image analysis. The results unfold a mixed morphology for the nanocomposite films with more than 95% exfoliated and intercalated silicate layer structures, depending on the screw rotation speed. The remarkable dispersion of the organoclay particles at the nano-level is discussed in terms of solubility parameter and favorable interactions between PET macromolecules and organic modifier of the nanoclay. The crystal content of the nanocomposite films and their cold and hot crystallization temperatures confirmed the role of silicate nanolayers as a heterogeneous nucleating agent. While all nanocomposite films exhibit higher haze values in comparison to the neat PET samples, incorporation of 2 wt% nanoclay brought about 25% increase in tensile modulus and barrier properties. A range of screw rotation speeds with optimized properties in terms of haze, morphology, thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties is suggested.

Mathematical prediction of the spreading rate of COVID-19 using entropy-based thermodynamic model

In the COVID-19 pandemic era, undoubtedly mathematical modeling helps epidemiological scientists and authorities to take informing decisions about pandemic planning, wise resource allocation, introducing relevant non-pharmaceutical interventions and implementation of social distancing measures. The current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emerged in the end of 2019, Wuhan, China, spreads quickly in the world. In this study, an entropy-based thermodynamic model has been used for predicting and spreading the rate of COVID-19. In our model, all the epidemic details were considered into a single time-dependent parameter. The parameter was analytically determined using four constraints, including the existence of an inflexion point and a maximum value. Our model has been layout-based the Shannon entropy and the maximum rate of entropy production of postulated complex system. The results show that our proposed model fits well with the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in daily basis. Also, as a matter of fact that Shannon entropy is an intersection of information, probability theory, (non)linear dynamical systems and statistical physics, the proposed model in this study can be further calibrated to fit much better on COVID-19 observational data, using the above formalisms.

The effect of salt supplements on thyroid hormones and quality of pregnancy in female hypothyroid rats

Background

The use of nutrient supplements along with medication to optimize the treatment of diseases yields desirable outcomes. Hypothyroidism causes abnormalities in cells, and organs, and induces gene expression changes. The use of salt supplements and vitamins considerably helps to treat hypothyroidism.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of a food supplement containing iron, iodine, and folic acid on thyroid hormones changes as well as the quality and quantity of hypothyroid female rat's offspring.

Materials and Methods

In the current experimental study, 40 female rats were divided into six experimental and two control groups. The study was conducted in three phases. In the first phase, the role of a combinatory supplement along with levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism by assessing T3, T4, and TSH hormones was investigated. In the second phase, the dose-depended effects of a combinatory supplement were investigated. Additionally, in the third phase, the quality and quantity of the next generation were measured in the hypothyroid female rats receiving the salt supplement.

Results

The plasma level of T3, T4 and TSH in hypothyroid rats receiving nutrient supplements indicated that the use of combinatory supplements along with levothyroxine could have desirable effects on the treatment of hypothyroidism to such an extent that the level of T3 and T4 hormones in the intervention group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P≤0.01). The second phase demonstrated that the desired effects of combinatory supplements on the serum levels of T3, T4, and TSH hormones were dose-dependent so that by increasing the dosage of supplementation, a significant decrease in the TSH level was observed (P <0.05), while T3 and T4 levels increased (P <0.01).The results of the third phase demonstrated that salt supplements could be effective in reducing the number of dead or preterm pups, and the use of mineral salts along with levothyroxine could promote a healthy birth.

Conclusion

Salt supplements have considerable effects on the health status of the offspring of hypothyroid rats, resulting in the birth of more healthy pups and reducing the rate of abortion or preterm births.

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in diabetic patients with and without microalbuminuria

BACKGROUND

Nephropathy is a major complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is heralded by the insidious development of microalbuminuria (MA). It is suggested that the serum levels of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is correlated with diabetic nephropathy. In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated serum ICAM-1 level in diabetic patients with and without MA.

METHODS

A total of 187 participants were enrolled and were classified into three groups including 40 healthy controls and 2 diabetic groups with (n = 59) or without MA (n = 88). Serum levels of ICAM-1, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured in all three groups. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Serum levels of ICAM-1 were significantly higher in diabetic patients irrespective of MA. Moreover, ICAM-1 levels in patients with MA were significantly higher than patients without MA. Patients with MA had significantly higher age and blood pressure compared to those without MA (P = 0.001). Serum levels of ICAM-1 were significantly correlated with age and HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, serum ICAM-1 levels were significantly higher in T2DM patients with MA and it may be associated with the severity of diabetic kidney disease.

Tamoxifen and tranilast show a synergistic effect against breast cancer in vitro

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed at examining a separate or combined effect of tamoxifen and tranilast drugs on growth and proliferation of breast cancer cells.

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers and the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Tamoxifen is the most widely used anti-estrogen for the treatment of breast cancer. Studies show that a combination therapy with other drugs enhances the activity of tamoxifen. Tranilast is an anti-inflammatory drug. We hypothesize that tranilast plus tamoxifen can work synergistically and help getting better result from this anticancer drug.

METHODS

Two breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, were treated with graduated concentrations of tamoxifen and tranilast alone or in combination at 24, 48 or 72 hours for MCF-7, and 48 hours for MDA-MB-231 cells. We used the MTT assay and lactate dehydrogenase leakage (LDH) assay to evaluate cell viability and cytotoxicity, respectively.

RESULTS

In both ER-positive and ER-negative breast cancer cell lines, the combination of tranilast and tamoxifen was more effective in growth inhibition than single drug exposure.

CONCLUSION

We have demonstrated that by means of a synergistic/additive inhibitory effect, tranilast was capable of enhancing the in vitro activity of tamoxifen on breast cancer cell lines. Based on the results obtained in this study, tranilast could be a candidate drug for combination therapy in resistant breast cancer patients (Fig. 9, Ref. 17).

KEYWORDS

breast cancer, Tamoxifen, Tranilast, LDH release, MTT.

Chorionic morphine, naltrexone and pentoxifylline effect on hypophyso-gonadal hormones of male rats

BACKGROUND

Knowledge about harmful effects of morphine on hormone secretion seems to be necessary. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pentoxifylline on side effects derived by morphine on hypophyso-gonadal hormones of male rats.

METHODS

32 male rats were divided into the 4 groups of OSS: control (received 40 g Sucrose/l drinking water and intraperitoneal injection of 1 l/kg normal saline), OMS: morphine group (received 0.4 mg/l + 40 g Sucrose/l in drinking water and intraperitoneal injection of 1 l/kg normal saline), NMS: morphine+naltrexane group (received 0.4 mg/l + 40 g Sucrose/l in drinking water and IP injection dose of 10 mg/kg/ml/day Naltrexane) and PMS: morphine + pentoxifylline group (received 0.4 mg/dl + 40 g Sucrose/l in drinking water and IP injection dose of 12 mg/kg/ml/day Pentoxifylline) for 56 days, respectively.

RESULTS

Serum levels of testosterone, LH, FSH hormones were measured. Pentoxifylline increased serum levels of testosterone, LH, FSH hormones compared to control, morphine and morphine-naltrexane groups.

CONCLUSION

Pentoxifylline has a significant efficacy for increasing serum levels of sexual hormones. Considering that Pentoxifylline is safe and cheap, with easy application, we suggest for the usage of this drug for improving semen parameter's quality before performing ART for the treatment of morphine addicts (Fig. 1, Ref. 31).

Laparoscopic unroofing of symptomatic kidney cysts. A single center experience

AIM

This study was aimed to evaluate success and complications of laparoscopic transperitoneal renal cyst unroofing and assess its long-term results at our center.

METHODS

From October 2008 till April 2012, 23 patients (14 male and 9 female) with a mean age of 53.6 years (range 32-70), underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic renal cyst unroofing at our center. None of the patients, had history of ipsilateral kidney surgery. Complication and outcomes were evaluated. Symptom resolving and disappearance of the cyst or decreasing its size to less than 1/3 of its primary size in radiographies was considered as success.

RESULTS

Unroofing was achieved in 100% of patients. Mean operative time was 36.6 minutes (range 25 to 60) and mean hospital stay was 3 days (range 2 to 8). No open conversions were necessary during procedure but one patient underwent open exploration hours after laparoscopy because of need to complete hemostasis. Symptomatic and radiologic success was achieved in 91.3% of patients, with a mean follow-up of 15 months (range 3 to 24). One patient developed a recurrence. One ureter stricture revealed in follow up period which needed open uretero-ureterostomy. No visceral complication occurred.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic transperitoneal ureterolithotomy is an effective treatment option for skilled surgeons but care must be taken because complications may occur.

In vivo microdialysis of glutamate in ventroposterolateral nucleus of thalamus following electrolytic lesion of spinothalamic tract in rats

Central pain is one of the most important complications after spinal cord injury (SCI), and thereby, its treatment raises many challenges. After SCI, in a cascade of molecular events, a marked increase in glutamate at the injury site results in secondary changes which may impact on supraspinal regions, mainly ventroposterolateral (VPL). There is little information about the changes in glutamate metabolism in the VPL and whether it contributes to SCI-related central pain. The present study was performed to evaluate glutamate release in the VPL following electrolytic lesion of spinothalamic tract (STT). A laminectomy was performed at spinal segments of T9-T10 in male rats, and then, unilateral electrolytic lesions were made in the STT. Glutamate concentrations in ipsilateral VPL dialysate were measured by HPLC method at days 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 post-injury. Tactile pain and motor activity were also examined. Glutamate levels were significantly increased in ipsilateral VPL of spinal-cord-injured rats 2 weeks after SCI and remained high up to day 28 post-surgery. The STT lesions had no marked effect on our measures of motor activity, but there was a significant decrease in paw withdrawal threshold in the hind paws at day 14 post-SCI. These findings suggest that an increased release of glutamate in VPL plays a role in secondary pathologic changes, leading to neuronal hyperexcitation and neuropathic pain after SCI.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration training: evaluation of a new porcine lymphadenopathy model for in vivo hands-on teaching and training, and review of the literature

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Adequate training is required to achieve successful endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). Of the variety of training models currently available, none offers verisimilitude to the tactile feel of puncturing a human lymph node. The aim of the current study was to evaluate a new porcine lymph node model for EUS-FNA training and to evaluate its impact on trainees' performance in patients compared with the literature of other models available.

METHODS

Two trainees each performed EUS-FNA of 96 lymph nodes in 18 animals with induced lymphadenopathy (mean 1.6 cm [range 0.9-3.5 cm]). Accuracy, speed, adequacy of sampling, and trainees' performance pre- and post-training were measured. Using a questionnaire, data were gathered regarding the effect of training and comfort level in patients. Results were compared with those in the literature.

RESULTS

Trainees progressed from hands-on assistance to occasional verbal guidance toward the end of animal training. There was good correlation between puncture time and number of EUS-FNA procedures performed in all but the subcarinal location (r = - 0.17). Comparison of trainee performance in patients before and after training showed a reduction in puncture time (P = 0.0014). Questionnaire analysis revealed increased confidence in echoendoscope- and needle-handling. Comparison with other published models supports these results.

CONCLUSION

Results from the literature and the current study showed that animal training improves trainee performance, confidence, and procedural comfort when returning to patient examinations. The new model produces a realistic response that is similar to EUS-FNA in patients; this experience provides a benefit to endoscopists in terms of improved performance in patients and could be considered for use in accreditation. Due to the small numbers of trainees, larger experiences are needed to confirm training efficacy.

Effect of Ionomer on Barrier and Mechanical Properties of PET/Organoclay Nanocomposites Prepared by Melt Compounding

Poly(ethylene terephthalate)/organo-modified-montmorillonite (o-MMT) nanocomposites were prepared via melt compounding. A polyester ionomer was used as a compatibilizer to increase the interaction between the nanoclay and PET. The nominal o-MMT content was 2 wt.% and the ionomer/organoclay (mass ratio) was 3:1. The samples were characterized by WAXD, SEM, TEM, TGA, rheometry, DSC, O2 permeation and tensile testing. It was found that the addition of the ionomer improved the dispersion of the nanoclay particles in the PET matrix, leading to an exfoliated structure for the samples prepared by twin screw extrusion and by an internal mixer (Brabender). This was confirmed by larger complex viscosity and storage modulus at low frequency for molten samples. However, a subsequent processing using single screw extrusion to produce films resulted in thermal degradation of the organo-modifier of the clay and collapse of the gallery spacing. DSC results revealed that the cold crystallization temperature of nanocomposites-based films decreased and the melt crystallization temperature increased with the introduction of the organoclay, due to the strong heterogeneous nucleation effect of the clay particles. The tensile modulus of extruded films increased, while the yield strength remained constant with the incorporation of the organoclay. The oxygen permeability of PET-ionomer nanocomposites decreased as compared with samples containing no ionomer.

Protective effects of subchronic caffeine administration on cisplatin induced urogenital toxicity in male mice

In Cisplatin treated group, the degeneration intensity of the kidneys the diameter of seminiferous tubules as well as the apoptotic index in testes and kidney were increased. In Caffeine+Cisplatin treated groups, the total body weight, the weight of testes and kidneys and also the histopathological data did not show significant differences. The motility of sperm in cisplatin group reduced but in Caffeine+Cisplatin groups this parameter was increased. These data suggest that caffeine recovers toxicity induced by cisplatin in both kidneys and testes of mice.

Granulomatous mediastinal adenopathy: can endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration differentiate between tuberculosis and sarcoidosis?

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Mediastinal lymphadenopathy may indicate diseases such as tuberculosis or sarcoidosis, and it is often difficult to establish a diagnosis when standard medical work-up is inconclusive. In this study we investigated the diagnostic yield of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in the differentiation between tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this prospective study, 72 consecutive patients with mediastinal lymphadenopathy, negative endoscopic investigations including bronchoscopic procedures, and no radiological evidence of lung cancer or other malignancies on computed tomography were enrolled. EUS-FNA and subsequent cytology, microscopy for acid-fast bacilli, and culture were performed. At least 12 months' follow-up including further investigations was included to exclude tuberculosis.

RESULTS

Adequate samples were obtained from 71/72 patients (36 male; mean age 50.2 years). No complications occurred. The final diagnosis included 30 cases of sarcoidosis, 28 of tuberculosis, four malignancies, one abscess, and nine benign lymphadenopathies. The size of lymph nodes on EUS varied from 0.5 cm to 4.2 cm. Tuberculosis nodes were significantly smaller than those in sarcoidosis. Unrelated nodes were significantly smaller than in either tuberculosis or sarcoidosis. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of EUS - FNA for tuberculosis were 86 %, 100 %, 100 %, and 91 %, respectively; those for sarcoidosis were 100 %, 93 %, 91 %, and 100 %, respectively. For culture of tuberculosis, they were 71 %, 100 %, 100 %, and 84 %, respectively. EUS - FNA led to a definite diagnosis in 64/72 cases (89 %) that had not been previously diagnosed by routine methods.

CONCLUSION

EUS - FNA offers a high diagnostic yield for the differential diagnosis of tuberculosis and sarcoidosis that have not been diagnosed by conventional methods.

Methodology for artificial microswimming using magnetic actuation

We propose a methodology for swimming at low-Reynolds-number flows based on ciliary motion of a microswimmer using magnetic actuation of artificial cilia. By solving the coupled magnetic-elastic-hydrodynamic problem, we demonstrate nonreciprocal effective and recovery strokes for cilia that nicely mimic natural cilia beating. Cilia drag forces, microswimmer net displacement, velocity, and efficiency are calculated, and we show the model can swim using a prespecified magnetic actuation. The proposed methodology can be used for devising biomedical microdevices that swim in viscous flows inside the human body.

Beyond NOTES: randomized controlled study of different methods of flexible endoscopic hemostasis of artificially induced hemorrhage, via NOTES access to the peritoneal cavity

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM

Significant hemorrhage is a likely complication during natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) procedures. We tested three different prototype devices (involving endoscopic suturing, monopolar forceps, and forced argon plasma coagulation [FAPC]) for treatment of acute bleeding in a survival animal model.

METHOD

Using transgastric access (TGA) or transvaginal access (TVA), the endoscope was introduced into the peritoneal cavity and the first side-branch of the gastroepiploic artery (1aGE) was cut before the different hemostatic methods were applied.

RESULTS

Sutures could not be placed quickly enough before vision was inhibited. With monopolar forceps via TGA, the time to control bleeding was 10 - 140 s (mean 58 +/- 41 s) and with TVA it was 25 - 115 s (mean 57 +/- 26 s) (P = 0.54). It was not possible to stop the bleeding in 4/6 animals with TGA access and in 3/6 with TVA, and FAPC was needed to entirely stop it, taking a further 10 - 280 s (TGA mean 126 +/- 90 s, 34 - 242 s; TVA mean 152 +/- 61 s; P = 0.42). Using FAPC with TGA took 4 - 72 s (mean 28 +/- 20 s) to stop the bleeding, and 16 - 41 s (mean 24 +/- 9.4 s) with TVA ( P = 0.64). As the FAPC technique was relatively so much better, additional treatment of bleeding from the main gastroepiploic artery (aGe) was added in four cases for each method of access; this was successful but took significantly longer, with TGA at 10 - 260 s and with TVA at 30 - 172 s (means 98 +/- 82, 117 +/- 54 s, respectively; not significant).

CONCLUSION

Regarding the three methods tested, the new prototype FAPC device allowed hemostasis of notable bleeding from a major vessel even more quickly than forceps coagulation of a bleeding side branch. More studies are needed to further explore this potentially very valuable tool.

Comparative study of NOTES alone vs. EUS-guided NOTES procedures

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is in the developmental stage for various indications, but several obstacles remain to be overcome before NOTES procedures can come into routine clinical use. Of these obstacles, (1) transluminal injury due to exclusive use of endoluminal endoscopy to create the incision and (2) lack of orientation might be prevented by employing endoscopic ultrasound guidance. In this comparative study we assessed the role of endoscopic ultrasound guidance in various NOTES procedures.

METHODS

Three transesophageal (mediastinoscopy/thoracoscopy) or transgastric procedures (gastrojejunostomy, adrenal gland removal) were performed in pigs using NOTES alone or with endoscopic ultrasound guidance (EUS). In NOTES alone the study end point was three major complications, at which point EUS guidance was added for the same procedures up to the same number of cases. The primary outcome was the rate of major complications; secondary outcome parameters were all complications and technical success.

RESULTS

Forty-six pigs were included. Three major complications occurred in the first 24 NOTES-alone procedures: these were bleeding and organ injury, all during mediastinoscopy/thoracoscopy procedures. Adrenal gland removal failed in all procedures in which it was attempted, while gastrojejunostomy (n = 6) was performed successfully and without complications. In the next 22 animals EUS guidance enabled safe mediastinal access (n = 10) and adrenal gland removal (n = 6). For gastrojejunostomy, EUS guidance offered no additional benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS guidance appears to be helpful in gaining access or identifying structures in anatomically difficult areas in NOTES procedures.

Which parameters might predict complications after natural orifice endoluminal surgery (NOTES)? Results from a randomized comparison with open surgical access in pigs

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is currently developed and assessed mainly in pig experiments. The vast majority of studies show a good outcome in short-term follow-up. The current study aims at comparing various parameters of postinterventional assessment and surveillance in relation to clinical behavior and autopsy results to find suitable control parameters and also to assess the pig as suitable model for NOTES compared with open surgery.

METHODS

Within the framework of a randomized prospective study of 20 pigs with iatrogenic colonic perforation comparing endoscopic with open surgical closure, clinical examination, including observation of behavior, food intake, and body temperature, was carried out daily. Laboratory parameters (white blood cells [WBC], granulocytes) were measured in 14 animals. Weight was measured preoperatively and on days 2 and 7 postoperatively. Results were matched with complications found during/after 2 weeks' survival. Pre-autopsy sterile cultures were taken from the peritoneal cavities to determine possible bacterial contamination.

RESULTS

Three animals from the surgical group were sacrificed on days 4, 8, and 12 because they became severely ill, with autopsy revealing intussusception from adhesions, peritoneal abscess, and peritonitis, in one pig each; another animal had culture positive for ESCHERICHIA COLI. Three minor complications (2 cough, 1 continuing fever with adhesions to the bladder found on autopsy) occurred in the endoscopic group without compromised recovery. WBC were measured in 14 animals, and found to be elevated (8 - 36 x 10 (9)/l) in six on day 2 including the two animals with severe complications. Between pre- and post-procedure, WBC increased about twofold in the uneventful cases but fourfold in the two animals with severe complications. Cultures from the abdominal cavity before autopsy were negative in all but one animal.

CONCLUSION

Animal behavior was a reliable indicator of severe complications. Fever, body weight, and the results of in vitro cultures of the peritoneal fluid did not indicate complications. WBC proved not to be specific but showed a larger increase in pigs with severe complications.

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) in the mediastinum: long-term survival animal experiments in transesophageal access, including minor surgical procedures

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) within the peritoneal cavity is rapidly evolving, using transgastric, transcolonic, or transvaginal access. There is little experience with transesophageal NOTES access to the mediastinum. This prospective long-term animal survival study was performed to explore the feasibility and safety of transesophageal intrathoracic procedures including minor surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Nine pigs were used for acute (n = 2) and up to 6-week survival studies (n = 7), followed by autopsy and histological investigation. The esophageal incision site was chosen using EUS; this was followed by endoscopic mediastinoscopy and therapeutic procedures such as mediastinal lymph node removal, saline injection into myocardium, and pericardial fenestration. The wall was closed using a suturing system or endoscopic clips.

RESULTS

No acute complications were recorded with respect to mediastinal structures, pericardium, cardiac rhythm, or circulatory parameters. Removal of small mediastinal lymph nodes (n = 2) was feasible, but proved to be difficult. Other procedures, specifically at the heart were all successfully performed. Endoscopy after 4 - 6 weeks showed a well-healed esophageal incision. Autopsy with histology revealed no signs of mediastinitis, infection, bleeding, or pericarditis. The esophageal scar was found to be well healed in all cases, but with a muscular gap where clip closure had been used.

CONCLUSIONS

Transmural esophageal incision and endoscopic partial mediastinoscopy including therapeutic procedures on the heart or mediastinum proved feasible in long-term survival animal studies. Clip closure of the defect was effective, but did not close the esophageal muscle layer. Other means such as endoscopic suturing appear to be preferable.

Semen cryopreservation in Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) using SHOTOR diluent: Effects of cooling rates and glycerol concentrations

Experiments were conducted with a final goal of providing a suitable protocol for cryopreservation of Bactrian camel semen. In Experiment I, the effect of average cooling rate (slow cooling: 0.14 versus fast cooling: 0.55 degrees C/min) on the viability of chilled semen was evaluated. In Experiment II, the effect of different concentrations of glycerol (4, 6 and 8%) on the post-thaw viability of frozen sperm was investigated. In Experiment III, the efficiency of SHOTOR diluent was compared with IMV buffers for the cryopreservation of camel semen. Viability parameters including progressive forward motility (PFM), plasma membrane integrity and percentage of live spermatozoa were assessed. Progressive forward motility of sperm cooled at the faster rate was superior after incubating for 24h at 4 degrees C compared to that cooled at the slower rate (P<0.05). Post-thaw viability of Bactrian camel sperm was better using a final glycerol concentration of 6% compared to 4 and 8% (P<0.05). Progressive forward motility of frozen-thawed sperm was greater using SHOTOR diluent (29.9%) compared to IMV buffers (4.2%, P<0.05). In conclusion, semen cryopreservation in Bactrian camel is feasible when it is extended in SHOTOR diluent, cooled within 1h (average cooling rate: 0.55 degrees C/min) to 4 degrees C, and then exposed to glycerol, at the final concentration of 6%.

Effectiveness of a tris-based extender (SHOTOR diluent) for the preservation of Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) semen

The development of a suitable semen extender is required to extend artificial breeding programs and to preserve the genetic potential of Bactrian camel. Experiments were conducted to provide the optimal osmolality and pH of tris-based extender and to compare that with available extenders for short-term preservation of Bactrian camel semen at 4 degrees C during 24 h. In experiments I and II, the effects of varying osmolalities (270, 300, 330, 360, and 390 mOsm/kg) and pHs (5.5, 6, 6.9, 7.5, 7.9, and 8.9) of tris-based extender on sperm viability were investigated. In experiment III, the efficiency of tris-based extender (SHOTOR diluent) in preserving Bactrian camel semen was compared with lactose (10%), sucrose (10%) and Green buffer. Viability parameters including progressive forward motility (PFM), plasma membrane integrity and the percentage of live spermatozoa were assessed. The data were analyzed using general linear model procedure. In the majority of assessments using tris-based extender, the viability of spermatozoa was superior at the osmolality of 330 mOsm/kg and pH of 6.9. PFM was significantly greater at the time of semen dilution in tris-based (65.5%) and Green buffer (60.5%) compared to that of lactose (31%) and sucrose (28%) extenders (P<0.05), and remained elevated throughout the experiment. There was no significant difference in other viability parameters among 4 extenders (P>0.05). In conclusion, the utilization of a tris-based extender, having the osmolality of 330 mOsm/kg and pH of 6.9, favors the short-term preservation of the Bactrian camel spermatozoa under chilled condition.

104 COMPARING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF OSMOLALITY OF SUCROSE EXTENDER ON THE VIABILITY OF SPERMATOZOA IN BACTRIAN CAMEL (CAMELUS BACTRIANUS)

Disaccharides have been used as an extender for dromedary camel semen (Bravo et al. 2000 Anim. Reprod. Sci. 62, 173-193). More recently we have investigated the effect of different concentrations of lactose extender on the viability of Bactrian camel spermatozoa (Mosafer et al. 2005 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 17, 197). Considering the osmolality (316.1 � 1.48 mOsm/kg) and pH (7.4 � 0.03) of Bactrian camel semen (Mosaferi et al. 2005 Theriogenology 63, 92-101), the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of osmolality of sucrose extender on the viability of Bactrian camel spermatozoa. Sucrose at the concentrations of 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13% with osmolalities of 292, 331, 356, 386, and 410 mOsm/kg, respectively, were prepared. All extenders contained 20% egg yolk and antibiotics, with pH adjusted to 6.9. Semen was collected from camels with a sound history of semen quality and fertility (n = 3) using a modified artificial vagina and divided into different treatments after mechanical reduction of semen viscosity (3). Progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was examined at the time of semen collection and at 4, 12, and 24 h after incubation at 4�C. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure in SAS/STAT after arcsin transformation. At the time of semen dilution, the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was greater at osmolality of 331 (23%) compared with 292 (1%), 386 (6%), and 410 (3.5%) mOsm/kg (P < 0.05). No progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was noticed after 4 h incubation at 4�C at osmolalities of 292, 386, and 410 mOsm/kg. At this time, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) of progressive forward motility occurred at osmolalities of 331 (4%) and 356 (0.5%) compared with that of the time of dilution. After 12 and 24 h incubation at 4�C, no progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was detected in any of these extenders. In conclusion, 10% sucrose (331 mOsm/kg) at the adjusted pH of 6.9 was the most suitable concentration of this disaccharide for preserving Bactrian camel semen for less than 4 h under chilled conditions.

105 COMPARISON BETWEEN TWO EXTENDERS FOR CRYOPRESERVATION OF BACTRIAN CAMEL SEMEN

A Tris-based extender (SHOTOR diluent) has been developed for preserving Bactrian camel semen at 4�C (Niasari-Naslaji et al. 2005 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 17, 198 (abstr.)). The present study investigated the possibility of utilizing the SHOTOR diluent for the cryopreservation of Bactrian camel semen. A modified bovine artificial vagina (Masaferi et al. 2005 Theriogeology 63, 92-101) was used to collect semen from three fertile bulls. The viscosity of the semen was reduced mechanically (Mosateri et al. 2005) and the homogenized semen was divided equally into two parts. Each part was sequentially diluted with either IMV buffers (Green buffer: first extender; White buffer: second extender; IMV, France) or SHOTOR diluents (without glycerol: first extender; with 12% glycerol: second extender). SHOTOR diluent consists of 2.6 g TIS, 1.35 g citric acid, 1.2 g glucose, and 0.9 g fructose in 100 mL of deionized water, with an osmolality of 330 mOsm/kg and pH of 6.9. All extenders had 20% egg yolk and antibiotics. The semen was diluted at the ratio of 1:1 with the first extender. The diluted semen was then cooled within 2 h to 4�C. At this temperature, the second extender was added at the same volume as the diluted semen in three steps with an equal volume, 10 min apart. After a 30-min equilibration time, beginning after addition of the last fraction of the second extender, the diluted semen was loaded into 0.5-mL straws at a concentration of 50 � 106 sperm per straw. The straws were maintained for 20 min at 4 cm above the liquid nitrogen surface, after which they were plunged into liquid nitrogen. The semen was thawed at 40�C water bath for 20 s. Progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was assessed at the time of dilution and immediately after thawing of the semen. The experiment was replicated four times. Data were analyzed using GLM procedure in SAS/STAT after arcsine transformation. At the time of dilution, there was no significant difference in progressive forward motility of spermatozoa between IMV buffers (51.8%) and SHOTOR diluent (61%; P > 0.05). However, after thawing, there was a significant decrease in progressive forward motility of spermatozoa in IMV buffers (4.2%) compared to SHOTOR diluent (29.9%, P < 0.05). In conclusion, in this experiment, SHOTOR diluent was more efficient for cryopreserving Bactrian camel semen than IMV extender. Shotor means camel in the Persian language.

The results of cytogenetic analysis with regard to intracytoplasmic sperm injection in males, females and fetuses

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence of chromosome abnormalities among couples for whom intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment was indicated and fetuses conceived through the ICSI procedure.

METHODS

All cytogenetic results were evaluated retrospectively. Patients undergoing ICSI (n = 508) were classified according to the referring indications as: (1) males with severe infertility (87 azoospermia and 34 oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, OAT), (2) prior to ICSI (56 males and 61 females), and (3) following an unsuccessful ICSI procedure (132 males and 138 females). Fetuses conceived through ICSI (n = 475) were also classified into 4 groups according to the additional risk factors for chromosome abnormalities: ICSI (n = 185), ICSI + advanced maternal age (AMA, n = 215), ICSI + positive triple test result (TT, n = 50), and ICSI + abnormal ultrasound findings (USG, n = 25).

RESULTS

An abnormal karyotype was found in 31.03% of males with azoospermia and 14.71% of males with OAT, in 3.57% of males and 1.64% of females in the group prior to ICSI, and in 5.30 and 5.07%, respectively, in the group following unsuccessful ICSI treatment. Gonosomal aneuploidies were predominant in males with azoospermia and autosomal rearrangements in males with OAT, while low-level sex chromosome mosaicism was found in females. The overall frequency of chromosome abnormalities in fetuses was 4.42% and varied in the different groups from 1.62% in ICSI, 2.79% in ICSI + AMA, 10.0% in ICSI + TT to 28.0% in ICSI + USG. The frequencies of the different types of chromosome abnormalities were as follows: balanced 1.05%, unbalanced 3.37%, familial 0.84%, de novo 3.37%, autosomal 3.58%, gonosomal 0.84%, numerical 1.89%, structural abnormalities 2.53%, and mosaicism 1.26%.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that cytogenetic investigations of the ICSI parents and fetuses are essential for the families, genetic counselors and also reproductive centers. In fetal karyotyping, de novo structural chromosome abnormalities and mosaicism should be taken into consideration.

96 A NOVEL EXTENDER FOR PRESERVATION OF BACTRIAN CAMEL (CAMELUS BACTRIANUS) SEMEN

Lactose and Green buffer (IMV, France) are the most commonly used extenders for camel semen. The viability of Bactrian camel spermatozoa in lactose extender is reduced after 4 h of incubation at 4°C (unpublished data). Although Green buffer is used for dromedary camel semen, there are no data indicating its effectiveness for Bactrian camel semen. More recently, we reported that the osmolality and pH of Bactrian camel semen are 316.1 ± 1.48 mOsm/kg and 7.4 ± 0.03, respectively. The objective of this study was to compare three different semen extenders, to determine if a TRIS-based diluent (SHOTOR* Diluent), a completely defined diluent, can maintain cooled camel sperm as effectively as established diluents. SHOTOR Diluent consists of 2.6 g TRIS, 1.35 g citric acid, 1.2 g glucose, and 0.9 g fructose in 100 mL of deionized water, with an osmolality of 330 mOsm/kg and pH of 6.9. SHOTOR Diluent, lactose, 10% (w/v), with an osmolality of 330 mOsm/kg and pH of 6.9, and Green buffer were compared in this study. All extenders contained 20% egg yolk. Semen was collected from bulls with a sound history of semen quality and fertility (n = 3), using a modified artificial vagina, and divided equally into the different extenders (Mosaferi S et al. 2004 15th Int. Cong. Anim. Reprod. 2, 520; Mosaferi S et al. 2004 Theriogenology, in press). Progressive forward motility and percentage of live spermatozoa were examined at the time of semen collection (time 0) and after 4, 12, and 24 h of incubation at 4°C. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure in SAS/STAT after arcsine transformation. The forward progressive motilities of spermatozoa at 0, 4, 12, and 24 h after semen collection were 65.5, 54, 44.5, and 36.5% in SHOTOR Diluent; 31, 18.5, 8.5, and 0% in 10% lactose; and 60.5, 54.5, 33, and 32.5 % in Green buffer, respectively (Table 1). The percentage of live spermatozoa at 0, 4, 12, and 24 h were 84.5, 84, 81 and 74.5% in SHOTOR Diluent; 80, 79.5, 72.5, and 56.5% in 10% lactose; 89, 82.5, 82.5, and 77.5% in Green buffer, respectively (P > 0.05). The progressive forward motility of spermatozoa did not significantly decrease by 12 h at 4°C in SHOTOR Diluent (P > 0.05; Table 1), whereas it significantly decreased after 4 h and 12 h of incubation at 4°C in Green buffer and 10% lactose, respectively (P < 0.05; Table 1). Further decrease in the progressive forward motility occurred in all extenders after 24 h at 4°C (P < 0.05; Table 1). In conclusion, SHOTOR Diluent is better than Green buffer and 10% lactose as an extender for chilled storage of Bactrian camel semen for 12 hat4°C. Table 1. The progressive forward motility of Bactrian camel spermatozoa extended in SHOTOR Diluent (1), 10% lactose (2) and Green buffer (3) at the time of semen collection (time 0) and after 4, 12, and 24 h of incubation at 4°C *Shotor means camel in the Persian language. The authors wish to thank the director and station staff of Bactrian Camel Reseach Center at Meshkinshahr, Ardabil, for providing facilities and kind assistance throughout the experiment.

94 COMPARING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF OSMOLARITY AND pH OF LACTOSE EXTENDER ON THE VIABILITY OF SPERMATOZOA IN THE BACTRIAN CAMEL (CAMELUS BACTRIANUS)

Lactose has been used widely as a semen extender for camels although in the absence of evidence illustrating its suitablility. Considering the osmolarity (316.1 ± 1.48 mOsm/kg) and pH (7.4 ± 0.03) of Bactrian camel semen (Mosaferi S et al. 2004 Theriogenology, in press), the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of osmolarity and pH of lactose extender on the viability of Bactrian camel spermatozoa. In Experiment I, with pH adjusted to 6.9, the effect of lactose concentrations of 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13% with an osmolarity of 290, 333, 350, 376, and 419 mOsm/kg, respectively, on the viability of spermatozoa was investigated. In Experiment II, with lactose fixed at 10%, the effect of extender with pH of 5.9, 6.9, 7.5, 7.9, and 8.9 on the viability of spermatozoa was examined. All extenders contained 20% egg yolk. In both experiments, semen was collected from camels with a sound history of semen quality and fertility (n = 3), using a modified artificial vagina, and divided into different treatments after mechanical removal of semen viscosity (Mosaferi et al. 2004). Progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was examined at the time of semen collection and at 4, 12, and 24 h after incubation at 4°C. Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure in SAS/STAT (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC, USA) after arcsine transformation. At the time of semen dilution, the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was greater at osmolarity of 290 (28.5%), 333 (34%), and 350 (31%) compared to 376 (13.5%) and 419 (1%) mOsm/kg (P < 0.05). The same trend in the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was noticed after 4 h of incubation at 4°C; although a significant decrease (P < 0.05) occurred at 290 (11%), 333 (18 %) and 350 (16%). After 12 and 24 h of incubation at 4°C, the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was less than 10% at 333 and 350 mOsm/kg (P < 0.05). At the time of semen dilution, the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was greater (P < 0.05) at pH 6.9 (35.5%) and 7.5 (18%) compared to pH 5.9 (0%), 7.9 (7.5%) and 8.9 (2.5%). The same trend in the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was observed after 4 h incubation at 4°C; although, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) occurred at pH 6.9 (15%) and 7.5 (9%) at this time. After 12 h incubation at 4°C, the progressive forward motility of spermatozoa was less than 5% at pH 6.9 and 7.5 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, 10% (333 mOsm/kg) and 11% (350 mOsm/kg) lactose, at the adjusted pH of 6.9, were the most suitable concentrations of lactose extender for preserving Bactrian camel semen for less than 4 h after which the viability of spermatozoa deteriorated significantly in this extender. The authors wish to thank the director and station staff of Bactrian Camel Research Center at Jahadabad, Meshkinshahr, Ardabil, for kind provision of facilities and assistance throughout the experiment.

Frequencies of gap- and tight-junction mutations in Turkish families with autosomal-recessive non-syndromic hearing loss

Mutations in genes encoding gap- and tight-junction proteins have been shown to cause distinct forms of hearing loss. We have now determined the GJB2[connexin 26 (Cx26)] mutation spectrum in 60 index patients from mostly large Turkish families with autosomal-recessive inherited non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSSHL). GJB2 mutations were found in 31.7% of the families, and the GJB2-35delG mutation accounted for 73.6% of all GJB2 mutations. The carrier frequency of GJB2-35delG in the normal Turkish population was found to be 1.17% (five in 429). In addition to the described W24X, 233delC, 120delE and R127H mutations, we also identified a novel mutation, Q80R, in the GJB2 gene. Interestingly, the Q80R allele was inherited on the same haplotype as V27I and E114G polymorphisms. As little is known about the mutation frequencies of most other recently identified gap- and tight-junction genes as a cause for hearing loss, we further screened our patients for mutations in GJB3 (Cx31), GJA1 (Cx43), DeltaGJB6-D13S1830 (Cx30) and the gene encoding the tight-junction protein, claudin 14 (CLDN14). Several novel polymorphisms, but no disease-associated mutations, were identified in the CLND14 and GJA1 genes, and we were unable to detect the DeltaGJB6-D13S1830 deletion. A novel putative mutation, P223T, was found in the GJB3 gene in heterozygous form in a family with two affected children. Our data shows that the frequency of GJB2 mutations in Turkish patients with autosomal-recessive NSSHL and the carrier rate of the GJB2-35delG mutation in the Turkish population, is much lower than described for other Mediterranean countries. Furthermore, mutations in other gap- and tight-junction proteins are not a frequent cause of hearing loss in Turkey.

The novel R75Q mutation in the GJB2 gene causes autosomal dominant hearing loss and palmoplantar keratoderma in a Turkish family

Dominant mutations in the GJB2 gene encoding connexin 26 (Cx26) can cause non-syndromic hearing impairment alone or in association with palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK). We have identified the novel G224A (R75Q) mutation in the GJB2 gene in a four-generation family from Turkey with autosomal dominant inherited hearing impairment and PPK. The age of onset and progression of hearing loss were found to be variable among affected family members, but all of them had more severe impairment at higher hearing frequencies. Interestingly, the novel R75Q mutation affects the same amino acid residue as described recently in a small family (R75W) with profound prelingual hearing loss and PPK. However, the R75W mutation was also observed in a control individual without PPK and unknown hearing status. Therefore, the nature of the R75W mutation remains ambiguous. Our molecular findings provide further evidence for the importance of the conserved R75 in Cx26 for the physiological function of the inner ear and the epidermal cells of the skin.