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This study presents the synthesis and characterization of iron oxide nanocomposites (Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃ NC) functionalized with ascorbic acid (Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃@AA NC) for enhanced photocatalytic and antioxidant activities. The nanocomposites were synthesized using a modified co-precipitation method and characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and SEM. The photocatalytic degradation of Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) and amoxicillin (AMX) under sunlight irradiation was evaluated. Results showed a remarkable degradation efficiency of 99.2% for BCB and 99.1% for AMX using Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃@AA NC, compared to 97% and 95% with Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃ NC. The rate constants for the degradation of BCB were 0.041 min⁻1 for Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃@AA NC and 0.031 min⁻1 for Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃ NC, while for AMX, they were 0.035 min⁻1 and 0.025 min⁻1, respectively. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃@AA NC was significantly higher, ranging from 45% to 95.25%, compared to 41.8% to 79.6% for Fe₃O₄/Fe₂O₃ NC. These findings suggest that ascorbic acid functionalization significantly enhances the photocatalytic and antioxidant properties of iron oxide nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives of the present study were to investigate the characteristics including glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, as determined by Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) staining, of suboptimal porcine oocytes and to enhance the meiotic competence of those through pre-culture with cumulus cell masses (CCMs). Percentage of oocyte-cumulus complexes (OCCs) derived from small follicles (SF; <3 mm in diameter) containing the oocytes that were assessed as BCB-negative (BCB-) was significantly higher than those derived from medium follicles (MF; 3–6 mm in diameter). Degrees of dead cumulus cells were significantly higher in OCCs containing BCB- oocytes, regardless of the origin of OCCs (MF vs. SF), than those containing BCB-positive (BCB+) ones. Exposing OCCs containing BCB+ oocytes to the apoptosis inducer, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, for 20 h significantly induced the transition to BCB- and meiotic progression of exposed OCCs were significantly reduced in both SF and MF derived ones. Transit of BCB- oocytes to BCB+ was induced when OCCs were pre-cultured with CCMs of MF derived OCCs containing BCB+ oocytes for 20 h before IVM. This pre-culture also significantly increased the meiotic competence of BCB- oocytes, particularly in SF derived ones. However, reactive oxygen species levels were significantly higher in BCB+ oocytes as compared with BCB- ones, regardless of pre-culture with CCMs, whereas no significant differences were found in the ATP contents among the treatment groups. In conclusion, the BCB result of oocytes could be regulated by the healthy status and content of surrounding cumulus cells and the meiotic competence of suboptimal BCB- porcine oocytes is improved by pre-culture with healthy CCMs. • BCB assessment is effective to select SF-derived porcine oocytes with relatively high meiotic competence in vitro. • The incidence of BCB- oocytes increases when apoptosis of the oocyte-cumulus complexes is induced by CCCP. • Preculture of SF-derived BCB- oocytes results in the conversion of those to BCB+ and enhances their meiotic competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study reports better findings photogalvanic (PG) cell in order to accomplish this objective of providing the globe with pollution-free nature for sustainable development. The goal of the research is to increase electrical output by the use of PG cells, which will result in increased electrical output. Better PG cell output has been the desired goal of the research, and this has effectively proved the efficient system in an experimental way. The Open circuit voltage (Voc), and photocurrent found for the Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) + Ascorbic acid (AA) + Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) combination was 1124.0 mV and 240.00 µA, respectively. A proposed photochemical method for the conversion of solar radiation energy was offered for the current generation of PG cells. The BCB+AA+SLS system, PG cell configuration was used to get the desired electrical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the influence of thermal treatment on the photocatalytic performance of ZnCr layered double hydroxide-based mixed metal oxides in the degradation of methylene blue and brilliant cresyl blue organic dyes under simulated solar light irradiation. The photocatalysts were synthesized using a simple coprecipitation method and subjected to thermal treatment at temperatures ranging from 100°C to 900°C. Additionally, the study explored the antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using a novel antibacterial experimental setup. It not only involved the introduction of ZnCr samples into BioPeptone/prepared cell suspension to enhance photocatalyst–bacteria cell contact but also included research on antibacterial activity induced by solar irradiation and also in the absence of light, providing crucial insights into photocatalytic antibacterial activity of ZnCr photocatalysts. Despite satisfactory efficiencies observed for all thermally treated ZnCr samples (removal efficiency ranging from 40% to 90%), ZnCr 900 (thermally treated at 900°C) exhibited exceptional performance, achieving nearly 100% removal efficiency and complete growth inhibition for both bacteria. Integrating these findings with structural and textural characterization data, as well as kinetic studies, our comprehensive analysis enhances the understanding of structure-dependent photocatalytic activities. These insights open possibilities for the application of ZnCr photocatalysts in water purification and environmental remediation.

The treatment of sewage wastewater generates a substantial amount of sludge, which poses significant ecotoxicological and environmental challenges. Managing this sludge is critical, as traditional disposal methods carry risks: agricultural use can lead to environmental contamination, while landfill disposal raises concerns about solid waste management and the preservation of landfill sites. Our research focuses on converting this urban sludge into activated carbon. We employed various techniques to characterize NaOH-activated biochar, including infrared (IR) analysis. BET analysis revealed a specific surface area of 62.35 m2/g. We also assessed NaOH-activated biochar for its effectiveness in adsorbing brilliant cresyl bleu (BCB). The SSE error calculations indicated a first-order adsorption, while the isotherms suggested a better fit with the Sips model, indicating heterogeneous adsorption with an ns value of 0.95. Our study highlights the effectiveness of biochar in adsorbing dyes such as brilliant cresyl bleu BCB.

Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining is a method used for selection of developmentally competent porcine oocytes, in addition to the standard morphological classification. The aim of the current study was to assess the relationship between BCB staining in porcine oocytes with high and low morphological characteristics and its maturation rate. In the first part of the study, cumulus-oocytes complexes (COCs) (n=434) were aspirated from 60 ovaries. According to the morphological classification and BCB staining, they were divided in 4 groups: COC+/BCB+, COC-/BCB+, COC+/BCB-, and COC-/BCB-. In the second experiment, COCs (n=445) were categorized into 3 groups: control, BCB+, and BCB-. Significant differences in the maturation rate were observed between COC+/BCB+ and COC-/BCB- (66% vs. 23%), and between COC+/BCB+ and COC-/BCB+ (66% vs. 38%) (p

This paper aims to investigate the uptake of two basic dyes (methylene blue [MB] and brilliant cresyl blue [BCB]) using the formaldehyde-treated algae Fucus vesiculosus (FV-FORMALD). The surface and morphology of modified biomass was characterized by the point of zero-charge (pHPZC), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area (S BET), scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The equilibrium data were best described by the Langmuir and Freudnlich isotherm model for MB and BCB, respectively. Kinetics modeling shows that the adsorption of both dyes onto FV-FORMALD was well described by pseudo-second order. The thermodynamics parameters validated the exothermic nature and the spontaneously of the adsorption of both dyes. The optimum conditions for the adsorption of MB and BCB were at pH = 8 and 4, adsorbent concentration = 2 and 1 g L−1, and T = 313.15 and 300.15 K, respectively. The FV-FORMALD had reuse potential for at least three cycles with high adsorption capacities of MB and BCB dyes. A colored real wastewater was successfully treated using FV-FORMALD. According to the results, the brown algae FV-FORMALD could be considered appropriate for removing cationic dyes due to its high efficiency and an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and low-cost approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining is a method used for selection of developmentally competent porcine oocytes, in addition to the standard morphological classification. The aim of the current study was to assess the relationship between BCB staining in porcine oocytes with high and low morphological characteristics and its maturation rate. In the first part of the study, cumulus-oocytes complexes (COCs) (n=434) were aspirated from 60 ovaries. According to the morphological classification and BCB staining, they were divided in 4 groups: COC+/BCB+, COC−/BCB+, COC+/BCB−, and COC−/BCB−. In the second experiment, COCs (n=445) were categorized into 3 groups: control, BCB+, and BCB−. Significant differences in the maturation rate were observed between COC+/BCB+ and COC−/BCB− (66% vs. 23%), and between COC+/BCB+ and COC−/BCB+ (66% vs. 38%) (p<0.0001). Significant differences were also registered between COC−/BCB+ and COC−/BCB-(38% vs. 23%) and between COC+/BCB− and COC−/BCB− (53% vs. 23%) (p<0.01). Results from the second experiment showed that only BCB− oocytes had a significantly lower maturation rate (28%) compared to the control (63%) and BCB+ oocytes (59%) (p<0.001). These findings showed that COCs with high morphological characteristics had higher developmental ability compared to COCs with low morphology. The BCB-staining in high-quality oocytes did not have a significant impact on their maturation ability compared to a control group, but it might be useful for selecting developmentally competent oocytes with low morphology characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oocyte quality is acquired during ovarian folliculogenesis including oocyte growth and maturation, and plays a key role in subsequent embryo development. However, oocytes matured in vitro do not fully support the ability to develop into the blastocyst stage due to inadequate in vitro maturation (IVM) systems which do not sufficiently mimic the in vivo microenvironment. The sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is important for ovarian folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation. Furthermore, our previous study demonstrated that low-quality porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) exhibit low developmental competence with a weak SHH signaling pathway. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to clarify the restorative effects of SHH protein supplementation during IVM on the developmental competence of low-quality porcine COCs, as assessed by brilliant cresyl blue staining. The results showed that the low developmental competence of low-quality porcine COCs can be improved by supplementation with the SHH protein. This indicates that an active SHH signaling pathway is required for the acquisition of developmental competence in porcine COCs. The sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway is an important signaling pathway for mammalian ovarian folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation. A previous study demonstrated that low-quality porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) have low developmental competence, with lower SHH signaling protein expression before and after in vitro maturation (IVM) than high-quality COCs. However, there is no reported evidence on the restorative effects of SHH protein supplementation during the IVM of low-quality porcine COCs. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of SHH protein supplementation on the IVM of low-quality porcine COCs, as assessed by brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining. To examine this, we designed four groups: (i) BCB− (low-quality), (ii) BCB− + SHH, (iii) BCB+ (high-quality), and (iv) BCB+ + SHH. While the supplementation of SHH protein with high-quality COCs had no effect, supplementation with low-quality COCs significantly improved cumulus cell expansion, metaphase II rate, and subsequent embryo development following parthenogenetic activation. Our results provide the first evidence that the low developmental competence of low-quality porcine COCs can be improved by supplementation with the SHH protein. These results indicate that an active SHH signaling pathway is required for the acquisition of developmental competence in porcine COCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The recovery of organically polluted water using Ag 2 WO 4 /Co/g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst. • Constructing Z-scheme photocatalysts enhances the separation of electron-hole pairs. • The enhanced light absorption, catalytic activity, and excellent stability. • This advanced approach will be employed in the future to retrieve wastewater effluents. The strong photo-induced charge separation /transfer plays an essential function in improving the photocatalysis efficiency of Ag 2 WO 4 nanoparticles (AWO NPs). Herein, the novel Ag 2 WO 4 /Co/g-C 3 N 4 (ACG) nanocomposite (NCs) was fabricated via the ultrasonic and facile co-precipitation approach for the assessment of photocatalytic activity. Physiological and photoelectrochemical techniques investigated the optical characteristics, phase structures, morphology, and charge separation of pristine and ACG NCs. The crystalline nature of the fabricated nanomaterials was verified by XRD and a selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern. According to the optical properties of ACG NCs, the particle has a band gap energy of 2.7 eV, which allows it to break down brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) in the existence of visible light (VL). The findings show that the photocatalytic degradation performance of ACG NCs for BCB (97.46%) was greater than that of individual g-C 3 N 4 nanosheets (GCN NSs) (40.4%) and AWOs (58.78%). The produced photocatalyst exhibited an outstanding performance for the BCB dye degradation and the reaction mechanism obeyed the pseudo-first-order kinetics of the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. Through a radical trapping experiment, it was determined that the •OH and •O 2 radicals were primarily accountable for the catalytic activity involved in the degradation of BCB. Six rounds of testing were used to examine the reusability of ACG NCs, and the reusable efficiency was 93.04%. The hazardous organic contaminants found in the environmental water bodies may be rapidly eliminated with the use of the produced NCs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deficiency correlates with poor oocyte quality and fertilisation failure. However, the supplementation of mtDNA deficient oocytes with extra copies of mtDNA improves fertilisation rates and embryo development. The molecular mechanisms associated with oocyte developmental incompetence, and the effects of mtDNA supplementation on embryo development are largely unknown. We investigated the association between the developmental competence of Sus scrofa oocytes, assessed with Brilliant Cresyl Blue, and transcriptome profiles. We also analysed the effects of mtDNA supplementation on the developmental transition from the oocyte to the blastocyst by longitudinal transcriptome analysis. mtDNA deficient oocytes revealed downregulation of genes associated with RNA metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation, including 56 small nucleolar RNA genes and 13 mtDNA protein coding genes. We also identified the downregulation of a large subset of genes for meiotic and mitotic cell cycle process, suggesting that developmental competence affects the completion of meiosis II and first embryonic cell division. The supplementation of oocytes with mtDNA in combination with fertilisation improves the maintenance of the expression of several key developmental genes and the patterns of parental allele-specific imprinting gene expression in blastocysts. These results suggest associations between mtDNA deficiency and meiotic cell cycle and the developmental effects of mtDNA supplementation on Sus scrofa blastocysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesized that the coasting time may be beneficial to the quality of cumulus-oocyte complexes recovered from live ewes, as reported in cattle. The present study assessed the effect of coasting times on the quantity and quality of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in sheep. All ewes were subjected to the "Day 0 protocol", followed by an ovarian stimulation (80 mg of pFSH in three decreasing doses), varying only the coasting time [12 (G12), 36 (G36), or 60 h (G60]. In Experiment 1, data regarding follicular population was assessed. In Experiment 2, the COC quality was checked by their morphology, brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) test, evaluation of chromatin condensation pattern, and oocyte diameter. In Experiment 3, genes related to oocyte developmental competence were evaluated in BCB + COCs. The oocytes in the G60 group had more (P < 0.05) large follicles than the other groups and oocytes with a greater diameter than the G12. Oocyte morphology was similar (P > 0.05) among groups, as well as the BCB + COCs quantity. The G60-oocytes presented a better (P < 0.05) configuration of chromatin condensation compared with the other groups and a greater (P < 0.05) gene expression of BMP15, MATER, ZAR1 , and PTGS2 compared with G12, and PTGS2 and HAS2 compared with G36 group. In conclusion, 60 h of coasting time positively affects the quality of COCs recovered after subjecting ewes to the "Day 0 protocol" and ovarian superstimulation. Implementing the appropriate coasting time to a given protocol can positively impact the in vitro embryo production outcomes in sheep. • Ewes were subjected to an ovarian stimulation treatment varying only the coasting time (12, 36, or 60 h). • The G60-oocytes had more large follicles and oocytes with a larger diameter. • The G60-oocytes showed a better configuration of chromatin condensation pattern. • The G60-oocytes had a greater expression of BMP15, MATER, ZAR1, PTGS2, and HAS2. • 60 h of coasting positively affects the quality of COCs from superstimulated ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New insights are proposed into enhancing detection of uranyl ions (UO22+) by electropolymerization brilliant cresyl blue–modified glassy carbon electrode (PBCB/GCE). The mercury-free PBCB/GCE sensor was applied to determine UO22+ in water samples by differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry (DPAdSV). The unique combination of the PBCB/GCE and DPAdSV significantly improves sensitivity due to the polymer of high electroactive area and fast electron transfer rate. The DPAdSV current using a 3 mm diameter PBCB/GCE was proportional to the UO22+ concentration in the range 2.0–90.0 μg·L−1 (− 0.113 V vs. SCE) with a detection limit of 0.650 μg·L−1, RSD = 3.1% (n = 10), and 4.5% reproducibility. In addition, the sensitivity for UO22+ determination was further improved at using an 1 mm diameter PBCB/GCE, which enhances the efficiency of UO22+ deposition due to its higher current density. The 1 mm diameter PBCB/GCE based on DPAdSV technique could be used to determine uranyl ions in the concentration range 0.20–2.0 μg·L−1 (− 0.113 V vs. SCE) with a detection limit of 0.067 μg·L−1, RSD = 5.7 % (n = 10) and 5.4% reproducibility. Hence, the PBCB/GCE is a suitable candidate to substitute the mercury electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to assess the developmental competence of goat oocytes selected using Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining. Goat ovaries were collected from the slaughtered animals with unknown reproductive history. The oocytes retrieved by aspiration technique were selected based on morphology and subjected to BCB staining. Brilliant cresyl blue staining is based on the activity of glucose-6-phospahte dehydrogenase (G6PDH) enzyme synthesised by the oocytes. The cytoplasm remains blue in oocytes that have finished the growth phase (BCB+) while the growing oocytes remain colourless (BCB-). The stained and unstained oocytes were subjected to in vitro maturation separately to assess cumulus cell expansion index and polar body extrusion. A total of 206 culture grade oocytes were subjected to study, out of which, 76.75 ± 2.38 per cent of oocytes showed positive to BCB staining and 23.21 ± 2.38 per cent were negatively stained. Significantly higher maturation rate was observed in BCB+(92.89 ± 2.37%) oocytes than BCB-(29.72 ± 2.46%). The present study concluded that BCB staining can be used for selecting goat oocytes with good cytoplasmic maturation for further in vitro embryo production.

Aim: Several factors had been concerned with the developmental competence of the sheep oocyte. This study aims to investigate the effect of adding growth factors (insulin-like growth factor 1 [IGF-1] and epidermal growth factor [EGF]) in the maturation medium of ewe oocytes selected based on brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) screening on in vitro maturation (IVM), fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development. Materials and Methods: Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered ewes by either aspiration or slicing techniques. COCs were in vitro matured in a medium containing IGF-1 and EGF (control group). For BCB screening, oocytes were stained and divided into BCB+ oocytes that matured in the same maturation conditions without adding growth factors (Group 2) or in the presence of growth factors (Group 3), and BCB– oocytes that matured in medium without growth factors (Group 4) or with growth factors (Group 5). Results: The supplementation of the maturation medium with growth factors during IVM of (BCB+) oocytes resulted in a significant increase in nuclear maturation rate (90.9%), fertilization rate (75.6%), and embryo developmental rates (60.0%, 46.7%, and 33.3% for cleavage, morula, and blastocyst, respectively). Conclusion: Culturing BCB+ oocytes in a maturation medium containing both EGF and IGF-1 showed a significant improvement in nuclear maturation, fertilization, and pre-implantation embryo development in vitro.

The vibronic absorption spectra of brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) oxazine dye in an aqueous solution using 40 hybrid functionals, the 6-31++G(d,p) basis set, and the SMD solvent model were calculated. It turned out that the X3LYP functional provided the best agreement with the experiment in the positions of the main maximum and the short-wavelength shoulder. Our calculations showed that this shoulder is vibronic and is not caused by a separate electronic transition. At the same time, the shoulder intensity in the calculated spectrum turned out to be lower than in the experimental one. Various parameters of the BCB cation in the ground and excited states (IR spectra, atomic charges, dipole moments, and transition moment) were calculated. Maps of the distribution of electron density and electrostatic potential have been built. The influence of four strong hydrogen bonds of the dye with water molecules on the absorption spectrum was analyzed. It has been shown that these bonds are strengthened upon BCB excitation. It was found that explicit assignment of water molecules strongly bound to the dye leads to a redshift of the spectrum. Photoexcitation of the dye leads to a noticeable polarization of only one of the four considered water molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The kinetics of oxidative decolorization of brilliant cresyl blue dye (BCB)+ by persulfate in the presence of cobalt(II) as a catalyst were investigated in aqueous acidic medium. The effects of different parameters like [H+], [BCB+], [ ], [Co(II)], [organic ligands], [micelles], and temperatures were studied. The reaction between [BCB]+ and persulfate was studied under pseudo-first-order kinetics by using a large excess of [ ] over [BCB+]. The effect of cobalt(II) as catalyst on the rate of reaction at different temperatures was investigated. A plausible mechanism for the cobalt(II) enhanced decolorization of [BCB]+ by persulfate is suggested. The surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate was found to inhibate the reaction rate, whereas Triton X-100 had no effect. The effect of organic ligands like malonic acid, 1,10-phenanthroline, oxalic acid and EDTA was investigated and it was found that these compounds enhanced the reaction rate. An outer-sphere electron transfer process is the proposed mechanism for this reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental study was conducted to synthesize magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles and investigate their efficiency in removing arsenic, brilliant cresyl blue, and neutral red from aqueous solutions. The MgO nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analyses. The results revealed that the synthesized MgO nanoparticles had a spherical structure with an estimated average size of approximately 30 nm. The influence of solution pH, concentration, adsorbent amount, type of eluent, and interference of interfering ions was examined and optimized for removing arsenic, brilliant cresyl blue, and neutral red. The optimal conditions for the removal process were determined as pH of 7, MgO amount of 0.037 g, ultrasonication time of 16 min, and concentration of 25 mg L−1. The experimental removal efficiencies of arsenic, brilliant cresyl blue, and neutral red in aqueous samples ranged from 88.49% to 96.03%. The results of eluent selection showed that ethanol had the highest removal efficiency of analytes from the absorbent surface. The reusability of the MgO adsorbent demonstrated its effective use for the continuous removal of arsenic, brilliant cresyl blue, and neutral red for at least four consecutive cycles. Overall, the results suggest that MgO nanoparticles could be an effective and cost-efficient adsorbent for removing arsenic, brilliant cresyl blue, and neutral red from real samples. [Display omitted] • Synthesis and characterization of MgO nanoparticles. • Selection and optimization of the important parameters by RSM. • Under optimum conditions, remove 93.04% arsenic, 95.58% brilliant cresyl blue, and 97.09% neutral red by MgO nanoparticles. • Close concurrence between experimental values and RSM-responses of dyes and heavy metals removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oocyte quality and maturation are influenced by protein supplementation. Objective: To evaluate the influence of fetal bovine serum (FBS) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) concentrations on the recovery and in vitro maturation (IVM) of bovine oocytes. Methods: The study was divided into Stage 1 (oocyte recovery), and Stage 2 (IVM). In the first stage, three experiments were conducted according to the recovery (R) medium used: (R1) 10 vs. 20% FBS; (R2) 5 vs. 10% BSA; and (R3) the best results from R1, R2, and the combination of FBS+BSA (5+5%). Within the second stage, the maturation medium was supplemented according to three experiments: (M1) 5 vs. 10% FBS; (M2) 0.4 vs. 0.8% BSA; and (M3) better results of M1, M2, and the combination of FBS+BSA (5+0.8%). Results: In Stage 1 (R1 and R2), the media with 10% FBS and 10% BSA showed better oocyte quality results and were defined for experiment R3. In R3, the 10% FBS and the combination of FBS+BSA (5+5%) allowed recovery of better-quality oocytes. In Stage 2 (M1 and M2), media with both levels of FBS (5 and 10%) and 0.8% BSA were defined as better according to the maturation and viability rates of cumulus cells, so they were defined for experiment M3. In M3, no difference was noted among the supplements. Conclusions: For oocyte recovery, 10% FBS and the combination of FBS+BSA (5+5%) can be used to obtain immature oocytes. For the in vitro maturation, FBS (both levels, 5 and 10%) and BSA (0.8%) can be used alone or in combination.

Photocatalytic degradation of brilliant cresyl blue stain has been done by irradiating the solution pigment with a solar light in presence of aluminum oxide. The effect of important reaction has included many parameters such as catalyst mass, the initial concentration of brilliant cresyl blue dye, the effect of temperature, and initial P has been investigated in a batch reactor. All experiments are determined by usage of UV-visible spectrophotometer analyzer. The optimal concentration of catalytic has observed at 0.17 g/100 cm3 while the typical concentration of stain was recorded at 50 mg/cm3. Photocatalytic break down of shining cresyl blue pigment was favorable in the Ph 10 and 8.44 mW/cm2 light intensity. This type of degradation of the present dye study has obeyed the pseudo-first-order reaction. Photocatalytic degradation of brilliant cresyl blue dye has studied by using various concentrations of aluminum oxide. This concentration was suspended in an aqueous solution of dye which has irradiated by solar radiation in a vessel reactor at room temperature with 10 cm3/min air bubble was passed through the solution.

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In this study involves removing of Brilliant Dyes, were which (Brilliant Green {BG} and Brilliant Cresyl Blue {BCB}) by using Iraqi Siliceous Rocks Powder (SRP). Adsorption isotherms were studied and the factors which prefer it, like temperature and salt effect, Adsorption isotherms of dyes, Brilliant Cresyl Blue {BCB} was found to be comparable to Langmuir equation according to Giles classification, isotherms dye Brilliant Green {BG} was found to be comparable to Freundlich equation more than dye Brilliant Blue {BCB} according to Giles classification. The adsorption process on this surface (SRP) studied at different temperatures, the results showed that the adsorption of dyes (BCB, BG) on the surface increased with increased temperature (Endothermic process). According to valuable to the above results of the thermodynamic functions (ΔG, ΔS, ΔH) were calculated. The salt effect on the adsorption of dyes at (20C°) it was found that the adsorption increased by the presence of salt. The kinetics of the adsorption was studied, The results were treated according to (Lagergren equation) and treated according to the second-order equation model. The kinetics experimental data showed that the adsorption was pseudo order and changes according to the changing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technology has been applied in the construction of disease model, production of transgenic animals, therapeutic cloning, and other fields. However, the cloning efficiency remains limited. In our study, to improve SCNT efficiency, brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining were chosen to select recipient oocytes. In addition, DNA methyltransferase inhibitor Zebularine (5 nmol/L) and histone deacetylase inhibitor Scriptaid (0.2 μmol/L) were jointly used to treat sheep donor cumulus cells and reconstructed embryo. Moreover, the expression levels of embryonic development-related genes (OCT4, SOX2, H19, IGF2 and Dnmt1) of reconstructed embryo were also detected. Using BCB + oocytes as recipient cell, donor cumulus cells and reconstructed embryos were treated with 5 nmol/L Zebularine and 0.2 μmol/L Scriptaid, the blastocyst rate in Zeb + SCR-SCNT group (28.25%) was significantly higher than SCNT (21.16%) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, results showed that expression levels of OCT4, SOX2, H19, IGF2 and Dnmt1 genes in Zeb + SCR-SCNT embryos were more similar to IVF embryos. Our study proved that 5 nmol/L Zebularine and 0.2 μmol/L Scriptaid treating with sheep donor cumulus cells and reconstructed embryos improved SCNT blastocyst rate and relieve the abnormal expression of embryonic developmental related genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this experiment was to explore the effects of Roscovitine (Rosco) prior to in vitro maturation (IVM) of immature pig oocyte. Brilliant cresyl blue test has been used to select the good quality of oocyte. Specifically, the effects of Rosco exposure on nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, diameter, intracellular glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and gene expression levels in SCNT embryos have been measured. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) have been exposed in 75 μM of Rosco for 22 and 44 h. The COCs that were matured in the IVM for 44 h without Rosco used as control group. Diameter of matured porcine oocytes 44 h culture with Rosco was significantly lower than 22 h culture with Rosco and control groups. GSH was higher in control group than 22 h and 44 h with Rosco but reduction of ROS in 22 h than 44 h with Rosco. In PA, exposure with Rosco 44 h oocytes group has been significantly lower than 22 h and control group in rates of maturation, cleavage and blastocyst formation. Similarly, in SCNT embryos rates of maturation, cleavage and formation of blastocyst have been also significantly lower in 44 h Rosco treated group than other two groups. SCNT embryos treated with Rosco 22 h showed greater expression levels of POU5F1, DPPA2 and NDP52Il mRNA compared with other two groups. Our results demonstrate that Rosco treatment with 22 h prior to IVM improves the development competence of porcine oocyte.

Electropolymerization of brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) in ethaline deep eutectic solvent (DES) has been carried out. Poly(brilliant cresyl blue) (PBCB) films were formed by electrodeposition on carbon nanotube modified glassy carbon electrodes by potential cycling in ethaline (choline chloride + ethylene glycol) with the addition of different ionic species i.e. NO 3 −, SO 4 2−, Cl−, ClO 4 −. The novel nanocomposite films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The composition of the polymerization solution had a large influence on the morphology as well as on the electrochemical behaviour of the electrodeposited films. The effect of scan rate on BCB polymerization was also investigated and the PBCB film synthesized at 150 mV s−1 in ethaline + NO 3 − presented a superior electrochemical performance. The PBCB Ethaline -HNO 3 /MWCNT and PBCB aqueous /MWCNT nanocomposite films were used as electrode support for the enzymes glucose oxidase and tyrosinase for the biosensing of glucose and catechol, respectively and were more sensitive than the PBCB based electrodes prepared in aqueous solution. Image 101 • Electropolymerization of brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) in ethaline DES. • Ethaline doped with various acids (HNO 3 , H 2 SO 4 , HCl, HClO 4) for BCB polymerization. • Morphology of PBCB films influenced by polymerization solution composition. • Improved electrochemical performance of PBCB DES compared with PBCB aqueous films. • Application of PBCB DES modified carbon nanotubes as enzyme biosensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) vital labelling is a powerful method for analyzing the quality of porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes. Our aim was to investigate the correlation between the selection of porcine oocytes using BCB labelling and selected intranuclear characteristics of porcine oocytes and parthenotes. Moreover, BCB labelling was correlated with the diameter of the oocyte and the developmental potential of the parthenotes. The following methods were used: BCB labelling, measurement of the diameter of the oocyte, parthenogenetic activation, immunocytochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, enucleation and relative protein concentration (RPC) analysis. We determined that the diameter of the oocytes in the BCB-positive (BCB+) group was significantly larger than in the BCB-negative (BCB−) group. Immediately after oocyte selection according to BCB labelling, we found significant difference in chromatin configuration between the analyzed groups. BCB+ oocytes were significantly better at maturation than BCB− oocytes. BCB+ embryos were significantly more competent at cleaving and in their ability to reach the blastocyst stage than BCB− embryos. Ultrastructural analyses showed that the formation of active nucleoli in the BCB+ group started at the 8-cell stage. Conversely, most BCB− embryos at the 8-cell and 16-cell stages were fragmented. No statistically significant difference in RPC in nucleolus precursor bodies (NPBs) between BCB+ and BCB− oocytes was found. We can conclude that BCB labelling could be suitable for assessing the quality of porcine oocytes. Moreover, the evaluation of RPC indicates that the quantitative content of proteins in NPB is already established in growing oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Rabbits play an important role in people's lives due to their high nutritional value and high-quality hair that can be used as raw material for textiles. Furthermore, rabbits are an important animal model for human disease, as genome-edited animals are particularly valuable for studying gene functions and pathogenesis. Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is an important technique for producing genome-edited animals and it has great value in saving endangered species and in clone stem cell therapy. However, the low efficiency of SCNT limits its application, with the selection of suitable rabbit oocytes being crucial to its success. In the present study, we collected oocytes from ovarian follicles and stained them with 26 μM brilliant cresyl blue (BCB). We then matured the oocytes in vitro and used them for SCNT. Comparison of the BCB-positive oocytes with BCB-negative oocytes and the control group showed that the BCB-positive group had a significantly higher maturation rate (81.4% vs. 48.9% and 65.3% for the negative and control groups, respectively), cleavage rate (86.6% vs. 67.9% and 77.9%), blastocyst rate (30.5% vs. 12.8% and 19.6%), total number of blastocysts (90±7.5 vs. 65.3±6.3 and 67.5±5.7), and inner cell mass (ICM)/ trophectoderm (TE) index (42.3±4.2 vs. 30.2±2.1 and 33.9±5.1) (P <0.05). The BCB-positive group had a significantly lower apoptosis index (2.1±0.6 vs. 8.2±0.9 and 6.7±1.1 for the negative and control groups, respectively) (P <0.05). These findings demonstrate that BCB-positive oocytes have a higher maturation ability and developmental competence in vitro , indicating that BCB staining is a reliable method for selecting oocytes to enhance the efficiency of SCNT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photo-catalytic decolorization or adsorption of an aqueous solution of 3 ppm of brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) in a suspension of 0.26 gm/100 ml of TiO 2 metal oxide semiconductor as a catalyst, was achieved by using 200Watts UV lamp from an external source. The disappearance of the original colored dye concentration with irradiation time was monitored using UV-VIS Spectrophotometer. It was found that 74% of BCB dye was degraded after 120 min of irradiation time. In addition, the sensing properties of the TiO 2 films were examined on behalf of numerous concentrations of ethanol in the liquid phase by a straightforward and dependable I–V procedure at normal room conditions. The sensitivity of the sensor was found to be ˜0.052 mAM−1 cm-2 for ethanol. Thus, the degradation rate and the subsequent chemical sensing properties of TiO 2 nanoarchitecture are of immense importance for the functions of TiO 2 structure as a photo-catalyst and chemical sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The outcome of in-vitro -maturation and in-vitro -fertilization of feline oocytes depends on the selection of high quality oocytes, and is often restricted to morphological criteria. The aim of this study was to test whether the Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining is suitable for pre-selection of feline oocytes before in-vitro -maturation. Cumulus-oocytes-complexes (COC) were released from domestic cat ovaries obtained after ovariectomy and were subjected to BCB staining. BCB+ stained oocytes were characterized by a violet/pale blue staining of the ooplasma, BCB- oocytes remained unstained. Transmission electron microscopy indicated for a slightly advanced stage of BCB- oocytes within the maturation process. After 24 h in-vitro -maturation, almost 75% of BCB+ and 21.5% of BCB- oocytes were able to reach metaphase II. Also, after in-vitro -fertilization, significantly more oocytes developed to morulae (19.2%) if oocytes were preselected for BCB staining, although 8% of unstained COC still reached advanced embryo stages. Prolonged storage of ovaries before COC retrieval for 16–20 h at 4 °C was accompanied by reduced number of BCB+ oocytes (96 of 210, 45.7%) in comparison to freshly isolated COC (151 of 225, 67.1%), and impaired cleavage rate (19.8%) and morula rate (9.4%) of BCB+ oocytes but the rate of embryos which developed to advanced stages remained unchanged (∼50%). To conclude, BCB staining is a very useful tool to preselect immature COC of feline species ensuring higher developmental rates. Highlights • BCB staining is a very useful tool to preselect immature COC of feline species before maturation. • Selection for BCB+ COC before in-vitro -maturation ensures higher developmental rates after fertilization. • Prolonged storage of ovaries at 4 °C results in less BCB+ oocytes isolated from ovaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oocyte quality is a limiting factor for in vitro embryo production (IVEP). This study aimed to evaluate the brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining as a marker for selecting competent oocytes in alpacas, in vitro maturation (IVM), and get blastocyst embryos after parthenogenetic activation (PA). Ovaries from a slaughterhouse were collected and transferred to the laboratory at either 10 °C or 23 °C during 21 h. Oocytes from large follicles (3–7 mm) were classified into BCB+ and BCB- after exposure to BCB (26 μM) for 90 min; then cultured in Medium 199. Oocyte quality was assessed by blastocyst rates after PA in Potassium supplemented simplex optimized medium (KSOM) with 5 % CO 2 (condition 1) or in Global Total (GT) medium with 5 % CO 2 , 5 % O 2 , and 90 % N 2 (condition 2). Mann-Whitney U non-parametric statistics test was used to compare the BCB status and the control group (BCB-free). BCB-free and BCB+ oocytes had higher maturated oocyte than BCB- oocytes after 48 h of IVM (34.7 %, 29.1 % vs.11.7 %); and after 36 h of IVM, BCB-free vs. BCB+ oocytes (55.1 % vs. 51.5 %). In addition, BCB-free group had a higher cleavage rate. Under condition 2, only blastocysts were obtained in both BCB-free (10.6 %) and BCB+ (6.3 %). Therefore, we conclude BCB is a tool for identifying the developmental competence after PA in oocytes BCB stained previously to IVM. Moreover, our findings demonstrate that BCB status does not affect the developmental competence of alpaca oocytes. However, transport temperature, IVM time, culture medium, and culture conditions significantly impact their developmental competence. • BCB selection is a valuable method of screening the competent oocytes in different species but in alpaca oocyte remain in study to determinate differential oocytes competence previously in vitro maturation and the formation of blastocysts is not affected by BCB staining previously to IVM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrobic acid is key substance in the human metabolism and the rapid and accurate determination in food is of a great interest. Ascorbic acid is an electroactive compound, however poorly responded on the bare carbon paste electrodes. In this paper, brilliant cresyl blue and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were used for the modification of carbon paste electrode. Brilliant cresyl blue acts as a mediator improving the transition of electrons, whereas multiwalled carbon nanotubes increased the surface of the electrode. Both brilliant cresyl blue and multiwalled carbon nanotubes were added directly to the composite material. The electrochemical behavior of modified electode was determined in electrolyte at various pH, and the effect of the scan rate was also performed. It was shown that the electrochemical process on the surface of the modified carbon paste electrode was diffusion-controlled. The resulted modified carbon paste electrode showed a good electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of ascorbic acid at a reduced overpotential of +100 mV descreasing the risk of interferences. A linear response of the ascorbic acid oxidation current measured by the amperometry in the range of 0.1 - 350 µmol.L-1 was obtained applying the sensor for the standard solution. The limit of detection and limit of quantification was found to be 0.05 and 0.15 µmol.L-1, respectively. The novel method was applied for the determination of ascorbic acid in pharmaceutical vitamin preparation and fruit juice, and the results were in good agreement with the standard HPLC method. The presented modification of carbon paste electrode is suitable for the fast, sensitive and very accurate determination of ascorbic acid in fruit juices and pharmaceutical preparation.

The in vitro maturation (IVM) efficiency of porcine embryos is still low because of poor oocyte quality. Although brilliant cresyl blue positive (BCB+) oocytes with low glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity have shown superior quality than BCB negative (−) oocytes with high G6PDH activity, the use of a BCB staining test before IVM is still controversial. This study aimed to shed more light on the subcellular characteristics of porcine oocytes after selection using BCB staining. We assessed germinal vesicle chromatin configuration, cortical granule (CG) migration, mitochondrial distribution, the levels of acetylated lysine 9 of histone H3 (AcH3K9) and nuclear apoptosis features to investigate the correlation between G6PDH activity and these developmentally related features. A pattern of chromatin surrounding the nucleoli was seen in 53.0% of BCB+ oocytes and 77.6% of BCB+ oocytes showed peripherally distributed CGs. After IVM, 48.7% of BCB+ oocytes had a diffused mitochondrial distribution pattern. However, there were no significant differences in the levels of AcH3K9 in the nuclei of blastocysts derived from BCB+ and BCB− oocytes; at the same time, we observed a similar incidence of apoptosis in the BCB+ and control groups. Although this study indicated that G6PDH activity in porcine oocytes was correlated with several subcellular characteristics such as germinal vesicle chromatin configuration, CG migration and mitochondrial distribution, other features such as AcH3K9 level and nuclear apoptotic features were not associated with G6PDH activity and did not validate the BCB staining test. In using this test for selecting porcine oocytes, subcellular characteristics such as the AcH3K9 level and apoptotic nuclear features should also be considered. Adding histone deacetylase inhibitors or apoptosis inhibitors into the culture medium used might improve the efficiency of IVM of BCB+ oocytes.

Abstract In this paper, brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) was selected as a sonosensitizer. The sonodynamic damage to human serum albumin (HSA) in the presence of BCB and the mechanism were studied by means of fluorescence and absorption spectra. Firstly, BCB could quench the intrinsic fluorescence of HSA obviously and the quenching mechanism was static quenching due to the formation of HSA-BCB complex. The results of the displacement experiments and the molecular modeling suggested that the binding site of BCB on HSA was site I, and hydrophobic forces and hydrogen bonds played major roles in the interaction between HSA and BCB. Secondly, the damage of HSA induced by the combined effects of ultrasonic irradiation and BCB was more efficient than that only BCB or ultrasound irradiation, which confirmed that BCB had sonodynamic activity. The damage degree of HSA was positively correlated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced in the system, which indicated that ultrasound could activate BCB to produce ROS, and the kinds of ROS produced by the combined effects of ultrasonic irradiation and BCB were mainly hydroxyl free radical, singlet oxygen and superoxide anion radical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Maturing oocytes have diverse developmental potential and good quality oocytes exhibit a better ability to attain physiological milestones in a time-dependent manner. This situation necessitates the confirmation of oocyte developmental status more precisely under an in vitro embryo production (IVEP) regime. The aim of this study was to explain timely events in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), an important milestone of oocyte nuclear maturation, to delineate the developmental capacity of Bubalus bubalis oocytes. In addition, the expression profile of genes responsible for GVBD was assessed in order to understand the molecular context responsible for GVBD. The chronology of GVBD events at different time intervals during in vitro maturation (IVM) suggests that the rate at which oocytes undergo GVBD was strikingly different in the brilliant cresyl blue (BCB)+ and BCB− groups. The expression of AKT and CDC25B genes for BCB+ oocytes was maximum at 8 h of IVM, and CCNB (cyclin B) peaked at around 10 h, which suggested that GVBD was finished after 10 h in BCB+ oocytes, whereas the expression of AKT and CDC25B was found to peak at around 12–14 h of IVM. This difference consequently delays the GVBD event by 2–4 h in BCB− oocytes. Poor abundance of gene transcripts was mainly implicated in delay and lower rate of GVBD in BCB− oocytes which in turn strongly affected the translational ability of oocytes to blastocysts. The findings of this study support the idea that there is a propensity in sub-optimal grade oocytes for delayed GVBD that compromises the developmental ability of low grade buffalo oocytes. The study highlights the very small, but importantly vital and separate, time window of the GVBD event during which the competence levels of buffalo oocytes are altered along with their translational ability to develop into the prospective embryos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photogalvanic effect of Brilliant Cresyl Blue-Fructose system is reported in the presence of efficiency enhancer chemical such as surfactant (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) and small Pt electrode for solar energy conversion and storage in artificial light. The study has shown enhanced performance in terms of electrical parameters such as maximum power (291.2 μW), short-circuit current (1,120 μA), open-circuit potential (1,045 mV), efficiency (8.4%), and storage capacity as half change time (140 min). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the effect of four ovarian stimulation protocols on the follicular population and molecular status of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Twelve Santa Inês ewes (in a cross-over design) received 80 or 120 mg FSH alone in a multiple-dose (MD80 and MD120) regimen or in combination with 300 IU equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) in a one-shot (OS80 and OS120) protocol. The follicular population, COC recovery rate, mean COCs per ewe and the rate of brilliant Cresyl blue-positive (BCB+) COCs were similar among treatments (P > 0.05). The expression of markers of oocyte competence (ZAR1, zygote arrest 1; MATER, maternal antigen that embryo requires; GDF9, growth differentiation factor 9; BMP15, bone morphogenetic protein 15; Bcl-2, B-cell lymphoma 2; BAX, Bcl-2 associated X protein) and the steroidogenic pathway (ERα, oestrogen receptor α; LHr, LH receptor; FSHr, FSH receptor; STAR, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein) was affected by stimulation. Specifically, the expression of markers of the steroidogenic pathway was reduced with increasing FSH dose in the OS protocol. FSH at a dose of 80 mg reduced the expression of FSHr and ERα in the OS versus MD protocol. Conversely, in MD protocol, only LHr was affected by increasing FSH dose. In conclusion, 80 mg FSH in the MD or OS protocol was sufficient to promote the development of multiple follicles and obtain fully grown (BCB+) oocytes. The MD protocol may be more appropriate for the production of better-quality oocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of simple, fast and reproducible techniques that provide information about the antioxidant activity (AA) of different compounds is essential to screen and discover new molecules with potential applications in the therapeutic, cosmetic, toxicological and food fields. Here, a novel and simple colorimetric method (“ BCB assay ”) is proposed for measuring the AA of chemical compounds by protection of the reporter dye Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) from loss of color due to oxidation by hypochlorite (a physiological oxidant). The decay in BCB blue color ( λ max  = 634 nm) in the presence of hypochlorite occurred in only 5 min and was used to track the AA of different molecules. Particularly, the AA of monoterpenes was demonstrated and used to quantify them at milimolar concentrations. Natural antioxidants like vitamins C and E, resveratrol, dithiothreitol, N -actyl- l -cysteine and glutathione were used as controls to validate the assay. Linalool, geraniol and 1,8-cineole were tested and showed in vitro AA in a concentration-dependent manner. The monoterpene concentrations providing 50% protection against oxidation (AA 50 ) were 2.3, 36.2 and 135.0 mM for linalool, geraniol and 1,8-cineole respectively, suggesting interesting AA. The method provides a useful, fast, simple and low-cost tool to determine the in vitro AA of different molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the efficiency/safety of Brilliant Cresyl Blue (BCB) staining as a selection method of developmentally competent immature human oocytes.Materials and Methods: Immature oocytes of 32 pregnant women were recovered during cesarean section (CS). After retrieval, 92 oocytes were randomly divided into two groups: control (directly disposed to in vitro maturation - IVM) and treated - exposed to BCB 26 μM during 60 min. After staining, the treated group was classified as cytoplasm coloration, BCB positive (blue) or negative (colorless), and then disposed to IVM. Nuclear status was checked after 24 and 48 h of IVM. Nuclear maturation (polar body extrusion), meiosis resumption (absence of germinal vesicle) and degeneration rates were evaluated among the three groups (control, BCB positive and BCB negative) using Generalized Estimating Equations, followed by Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons.Results: Nuclear maturation was higher in BCB positive compared to BCB negative, after 24 and 48 h of IVM (p = .004 and p = .032). The control group was equal to BCB positive. There was no difference among groups analyzing meiosis resumption and degeneration rates.Conclusion: The BCB test can be a good marker in pre-selection procedures of developmentally competent human oocytes aspirated during CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of the corpus luteum (CL), temporary endocrine gland present on the ovaries, on the recovery of bovine immature oocytes derived from ovaries of post-mortem females. Thun, the following comparisons were performed: non-pregnant females with CL vs. females not-pregnant without CL; pregnant females with CL vs. not-pregnant females with CL; and ovary with CL vs. ovary without CL. So, ovaries were obtained in slaughterhouse and the oocytes recovered by follicular aspiration. The oocyte quality was evaluated by conventional morphology and brilliant cresyl blue assay (BCB), and viable and non-viable oocytes were quantified for each technique. All data were analyzed by Fisher test (P<0.05). Thus, evaluating females or ovaries with or without CL, no difference was observed in the evaluated parameters. Nevertheless, a higher percentage of viable oocytes by morphology were obtained from pregnant females with CL comparing nonpregnant females with CL. In conclusion, it can be stated that it is possible that recovery parameters and oocyte quality are not affected by the presence of CL, except in pregnant donors who presented oocytes of better quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this experiment was to explore the effects of Roscovitine (Rosco) prior to in vitro maturation (IVM) of immature pig oocyte. Brilliant cresyl blue test has been used to select the good quality of oocyte. Specifically, the effects of Rosco exposure on nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, diameter, intracellular glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and embryonic development after parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and gene expression levels in SCNT embryos have been measured. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) have been exposed in 75 μM of Rosco for 22 and 44 h. The COCs that were matured in the IVM for 44 h without Rosco used as control group. Diameter of matured porcine oocytes 44 h culture with Rosco was significantly lower than 22 h culture with Rosco and control groups. GSH was higher in control group than 22 h and 44 h with Rosco but reduction of ROS in 22 h than 44 h with Rosco. In PA, exposure with Rosco 44 h oocytes group has been significantly lower than 22 h and control group in rates of maturation, cleavage and blastocyst formation. Similarly, in SCNT embryos rates of maturation, cleavage and formation of blastocyst have been also significantly lower in 44 h Rosco treated group than other two groups. SCNT embryos treated with Rosco 22 h showed greater expression levels of POU5F1, DPPA2 and NDP52Il mRNA compared with other two groups. Our results demonstrate that Rosco treatment with 22 h prior to IVM improves the development competence of porcine oocyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the present studies were to investigate the developmental capacity of dromedary camel oocytes selected by brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining and to investigate the expression of select transcripts in germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes. These transcripts included BMP15 and GDF9 as important transcripts for folliculogenesis and oocyte development, Zar1 and Mater as maternal transcripts required for embryonic development, Cyclin B1 and CDK1 as cell cycle regulators and Oct4 and STAT3 as transcription factors. Dromedary camel oocytes were retrieved from ovaries collected at a local slaughterhouse. After exposure to BCB staining, cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) from BCB+, BCB− and control (selected based on morphological criteria) groups were subjected to in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization and in vitro culture. For gene expression studies, after BCB staining cumulus cells were stripped off and the completely denuded GV stage oocytes were used for RT-PCR analysis of selected transcripts. BCB+ oocytes showed higher maturation, and fertilization rates compared with BCB− and control groups. Indices of early embryonic development, namely, cleavage at 48 hours post insemination (hpi), and development to morula at day 5 and day 7 blastocyst rates were also significantly higher in the BCB+ group. RT-PCR revealed a higher expression of BMP15, GDF9, Zar1, Mater, Cyclin B1, CDK1, OCT4 and STAT3 in good quality oocytes that stained positively for BCB (BCB+). Collectively, results provide novel information about the use of BCB screening for selecting good quality oocytes to improve in vitro embryo production in the dromedary camel. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]