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Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is extensively used in regenerative medicine. Present work was aimed to investigate the effect of autologous PRP supplementation in semen freezing extender on sperm quality, antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidation and in vitro fertilizing capacity of frozen-thawed buffalo semen and subsequent embryo developmental competence. Buffalo bulls, n = 8, were used as semen donors. Semen ejaculates were separately divided into four equal parts and extended with autologous PRP 0 (control), 2, 5 and 10% supplemented Tris-based semen extender. Extended semen samples were then cooled to 5 °C for 2h and processed for cryofreezing in French straws. Post-thawed semen samples (37 °C for 30 s) were evaluated for progressive motility (PM), structural membrane integrity (SMI), functional membrane integrity (FMI), total abnormalities (TA), and acrosome integrity (AI). Supernatant from the thawed samples was examined colormetrically for superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation profile (MDA). Fertilizing capacity of post-thaw spermatozoa cryofrozen in 5% PRP extender was tested upon fertilization the buffalo oocytes in vitro. Higher (P 0.05) post-thaw sperm quality (PM, SMI, FMI, AI) in 5% PRP semen extender, whereas TA was lower in control, 2% and 10% concentrations. Five percent PRP supplemented semen extender resulted in greater (P 0.05) TAC and SOD, and lesser MDA levels compared to other groups. Inseminated buffalo oocytes with sperm cryofrozen in 5% PRP revealed higher fertilization, cleavage and blastocyst rate and lower polyspermy as compared to control. In conclusion, buffalo spermatozoa cryofrozen in autologous PRP supplemented semen extender enhanced cryotolerance and fertilizing potential.

The present investigation aimed to evaluate uterine hemodynamics in six multiparous postpartum buffaloes and their relationship with sex steroid hormone concentrations and enzymatic antioxidant levels. The buffaloes were examined by transrectal Doppler ultrasonography to record the vascular perfusion in uterine arteries of both ipsilateral and contralateral ones. All Doppler indices such as peak (PV) endpoints (EV) of velocity, peak systolic velocity (PSV), blood flow volume (BFV), resistance (RI), and pulsatility index (PI) were recorded from 1st to 6th postpartum. The blood samples were collected starting from 1st-week post-calving and every week thereafter following each ultrasound Doppler examination for assay of steroid hormones (progesterone and estradiol) and antioxidant (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase, CAT) were measured. PV of the ipsilateral previously gravid arteries showed a linear pattern of significant (P=0.001) decline from the 1st week after parturition till the 6th week. This decline was also associated with a linear decrease in EV from the 1st week till the 6th week after birth. While contralateral PV and EV are not significantly changed throughout weeks after parturition. The levels of SOD and CAT are significantly elevated at 1st week postpartum compared to the 6th week after parturition. In contrast, the GPx levels did not reveal any significant differences during the puerperal period. Estradiol and progesterone declined from 1st to 5th week after parturition. PV of the ipsilateral uterine artery had a significant (P≤0.05) positive correlation with BFV (r=0.49), estradiol 17- α(r=0.98) and progesterone (r=0.85). The same parameter showed a statically (P≤ 0.001) positive correlation with SOD (r=0.87) and CAT (r=0.92). While, Ipsilateral uterine RI showed a significant (P≤0.05) negative correlation with PV(r=-0.85), BFR ((r=-0.62), estradiol 17- α(r=-0.52), and progesterone (r=-0.88), in addition, RI also correlated negatively with both SOD (r=-0.57) and CAT (r=-0.63). Progesterone and estrogen levels are strongly correlated with SOD and CAT. The uterine hemodynamics in buffaloes is affected by the day of the postpartum period. SOD and CAT antioxidants recorded herein, except GPx, increase in the 1st weeks of calving and are affected by the day of the postpartum period.

This current study aimed to determine ovarian and luteal blood flow waveform patterns in buffalos synchronized using OvSynch protocol in cold and hot seasons. Six cyclic buffalo cows aged 6±0.5 years old, having a weight of 400 ± 50 kg, were scanned daily along three successive estrous cycles transrectally by Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate the normal ovarian hemodynamic during the normal spontaneous ovulation and before the start of experiments. Buffaloes were synchronized with gonadotropin[GnRH] –prostaglandin[P] –gonadotropin (GPG) protocol in which animals received 10μg of GnRH on day ??, 0.250μg of PGF2α on day 7, and another dose of 10μg of GnRH was administered 48h after the PGF2α injection. Blood sampling and ovarian ultrasound examinations (color and spectral Doppler modes) were conducted on the day of the estrous and luteal phases. Results revealed that peak systolic velocity waveform (PSV) was significantly (P

Oxidative stress (OS) is brought on by heat stress (HS), which weakens antioxidant defense and initiates OS. Since mitochondria are the primary source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), HS-mediated OS may be lessened by targeting mitochondria with particular antioxidants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of oral coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on the reproductive performance of goat bucks under HS conditions. Ten mature bucks were randomly separated into two groups and housed in an environment with a high-temperature humidity index (THI: 88.3 to 94.8; summer season). The first group (n = 5) got the baseline diet while the second group (n = 5) received supplemental oral CoQ10 (3 mg/kg BW; CoQ10 group) daily for six weeks. Testicular blood flow parameters (TBF), testicular volume (TV) and echogenicity (TE), nitric oxide (NO), seminal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and catalase (CAT) activities, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and semen quality traits were all measured. The examinations started a week before (W-1), on the first supplementation day (W0), and weekly for eight consecutive weeks (W1-W8). There were marked (P 0.05) increases in TBF (W3-W6) and TV, and a decrease in TE (W3-W5) in the CoQ10 group compared to the CON group. Similarly, testosterone (T) and NO levels (W3-W5) in the CoQ10 group were higher (P 0.05) than those of the control group. The CoQ10 group demonstrated significant (P (P

Heat stress (HS) during pregnancy adversely affects uterine vascular perfusion and foetal development. L-arginine (L-Arg), a nitric oxide (NO) precursor, has been proven to enhance an organ's vascular perfusion. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of L-Arg administration on the pregnant buffaloes' uterine haemodynamics and uteroplacental thickness under environmental HS conditions. For this purpose, pluriparous (n = 12) HS-pregnant buffaloes (mid-gestation, 180-190 days; temperature humidity index85) were haphazardly assigned into two groups, either administered a single intravenous (IV) bolus of 5 mg/kg BW of L-Arg Hcl (n = 6; ARG) or received normal saline (0.9%; IV; 25 ml) that served as a control group (n = 6; CON). Combined uteroplacental thickness (CUPT, mm), middle uterine arteries' (MUA) diameter (mm) and uterine Doppler haemodynamics (ipsilateral and contralateral to the pregnant horn) were examined utilizing B-mode and colour Doppler ultrasonography, respectively. The serum levels of progesterone (P4), estradiol 17β (E2), nitric oxide (NO) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assayed using commercial kits. The experimental time points were - 1, 0, 2, 4, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h post-L-Arg administration. The ARG group showed higher (p .05) CUPT and MUA diameter values starting at 24 h post-treatment and onward than the control buffalo cows. In addition, there were improvements (p .05) in the blood flow parameters in the ipsilateral MUA after L-Arg treatment evidenced by lower values of pulsatility and resistive indices starting at 48 and 4 h, respectively and onward, and higher values of peak systolic velocity, coloured areas towards the pregnant uterine horn (both 24-72 h). Increases in the NO levels were found during the period between 4 and 120 h in the ARG group compared to the CON group. Moreover, significant increases in the E2 and P4 means were noted in the ARG group, especially at 24 h onward, respectively compared to the CON group. Concerning the TAC status, neither the administration nor the hours affected serum TAC levels in the HS pregnant buffaloes (CON and ARG). In conclusion, L-Arg administration improved uteroplacental thickness and enhanced uterine haemodynamics, NO levels, and steroids production in mid-pregnant buffalo cows under environmental heat stress conditions which could improve foetal growth and development.

This study determined the ovarian, uterine, and luteal hemodynamic variations using Doppler between pregnant and non-pregnant pluriparous buffalos in relation to their anatomical and histological basics during the first 31 days after natural mating. Adult healthy cyclic Egyptian buffalo (n = 10) were selected and categorized into two groups; group 1 (n = 5) was mated naturally by a fertile bull during the late estrus phase, and group 2 (n = 5) was not mated. Animals were subjected to Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate luteal, ovarian, and uterine blood flows from day 7 until day 31 post-mating. Besides, three pregnant (one month) and other non-pregnant uterus (n = 6) were obtained from a local abattoir to study the anatomical and histological features. Our results revealed that the luteal, ovarian, and uterine arteries cross-sectional diameters/mm increased (P 0.05) from day 7 till day 31. Resistance (RI) and pulsatility indices (PI) decreased linearly (P 0.05) in pregnant buffalos till day 31, but the peak systolic, end diastolic velocities and flow volume of those arteries were increased. Additionally, luteal colored areas away and toward CL were increased (P 0.05) in the pregnant group compared to non-pregnant ones. There was a significant (P 0.05) increase in the lumen diameter of luteal, ovarian, and uterine artery sections in pregnant buffalos compared to those of non-pregnant ones. While the mean value of tunica media's thickness of both luteal and uterine artery was significantly higher in non-pregnant buffalos than pregnant ones, except for that of the ovarian artery. Additionally, the ovarian and uterine artery tunica muscularis relative area % was (P 0.05) higher in pregnant buffalos than in non-pregnant ones, except for that of the luteal artery. It was concluded that in pregnant buffalos, ovarian, uterine, and luteal blood flows were improved from the first week until 31 days post-mating via a decline in both Doppler indices with an increase in Doppler velocities and blood flow volume in relation to their histological changes based on their anatomical architecture in comparison to non-pregnant one.

To increase rams’ post-thaw semen quality following cryopreservation, this study used enriched Tris-based diluent with varying amounts of moringa leaf methanolic extract (MLME). The antioxidant activity, total phenolic, and total flavonoid content were all assessed in MLME. The sperm of five healthy Awassi rams were collected, divided into 4 equal aliquots, and diluted [1:5; (v/v)] in Tris-citrate-glucose extender supplemented with 0.48, 0.56, and 0.64 mg MLME/ml or without MLME supplementation (control). The percentages of sperm total motility (STM, %), sperm progressive motility (SPM, %) and viability (V, %), abnormal morphology (AM, %), membrane functional integrity (MFI, %), and acrosome integrity (AI %) were measured. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), ascorbic acid (AA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) were measured. The total phenolic gallic acid and flavonoid catechin (equivalent) contents were 19.78 mg/g and 11.94 mg/g, respectively. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (34.37 mM TE/g) and 2,2′-azino-bis/3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (53.47 mM TE/g) were found in MLME. MLME had a 64.59 mM TE/g ferric-reducing power. In comparison to control, the addition of 0.64 mg/ml MLME to Tris-based extender resulted in the highest (P P P = 0.03), NO (P = 0.012), CHO (P = 0.0001), and LDL (P = 0.004) were reduced by 0.64 mg/ml MLME, while AA (P = 0.017) and SOD (P = 0.0001) were elevated. In conclusion, the highest copper (P = 0.006) and lowest zinc concentrations in MLME (0.48 mg/ml extender) deteriorated the post-thaw semen quality, prompting us to suggest the addition of 0.64 mg MLME to rams’ Tris-based semen extender.

This study hypothesizes that melatonin with exogenous progesterone (CIDR) can improve follicular, luteal, ovarian and uterine haemodynamic of heat-stressed cows. Holstein cows (N = 12) studied for two spontaneous oestrous cycles during winter then divided equally during summer into the CIDR group received CIDR for 7 days and the melatonin group (Mel) received three injections of melatonin (75 mg/head) at the CIDR insertion, removal and ovulation days. Blood samples were collected to assay oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and nitric oxide (NO). On day 0 (Ovulation), Mel had more small follicles (p

The aim of the present investigation was to study the comparative efficacy of two estrous synchronization treatments on follicular, luteal changes, and ovarian hemodynamic associated with hormonal changes of progesterone and estrogen in addition to nitric oxide. Six cyclic buffalo cows were scanned daily along three successive estrous cycles transrectal by Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate the normal ovarian hemodynamic during normal spontaneous ovulation and before the start of experiments. Buffaloes in the current study will be categorized according to the experimental design. The buffalo cows in the first experiment were synchronized with progesterone releasing intra-vaginal device (PRID) - PGF2α (7 days inserted PRID and PGF2α injected on the 6th day, n = 6). In experiment 2 the same animals (n = 6)) were taken a rest for two successive estrous cycles. Then, buffaloes were synchronized with PRID- Modified Co- synch (PRID+GnRH) in which, 7 days inserted PRID intra-virginal then animals will receive 10μg of GnRH at day 0, 250μg of PGF2α at day 7, another 10μg of GnRH administered 48h after the PGF2α injection. Blood sampling and ovarian ultrasound examinations (color and power Doppler modes) were conducted on the day of PRID removal, estrous, and luteal phase. Results revealed that buffaloes treated with PRID - PGF2α had a higher total number of follicles and F1 dominant diameter. Color Doppler ultrasonography revealed that, F1 diameter, F1 area/pixel, F1 antrum area/pixel, F1 granulosa area, and F1 colored area/pixels significantly increased in PRID -PGF2α group as compared to normal spontaneous ovulating and PRID+GnRH group. In addition, the CL diameter and their vascularity (CL Area/pixels, CL Color area/pixels, CL Color area %) were markedly increased in PRID -PGF2α group as compared to normal spontaneous ovulating and PRID+GnRH group concurrent with a high level of plasma estrogen. The higher values of resistance index (RI) of ipsilateral and contralateral ovarian arteries were recorded in PRID -PGF2α and PRID+GnRH compared to the normal spontaneous ovulating. A similar tendency was observed in blood flow volume (BFV). However, the ovarian blood flow indices including time average mean velocity (TAMV) and peak systolic velocity PSV) did not change among different groups. A higher level of plasma estrogen was achieved in PRID -PGF2α as compared to other groups. However, the progesterone levels did not vary among groups. The nitric oxide level was significantly higher in PRID+GnRH as compared to others. In conclusion, synchronization with the PRID -PGF2α protocol could be enhanced the follicular activity and hemodynamics of Egyptian buffaloes.

This study aimed to evaluate the use of Doppler ultrasound for determining alterations in uterine thickness and uterine arteries, use of chromohysteroscopy in evaluating endometritis with biopsies, and the impact of endometritis on oxidative and hormonal status. Twenty Arabian mares were divided into control and endometritis groups. Each underwent a physical examination, Doppler ultrasound, chromoendoscopy, and uterine biopsy. Blood samples from each animal were collected for hematologic, hormonal, and oxidative analysis. Results revealed a significant increase in estradiol, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide metabolites (NOMs) associated with a significant decrease in progesterone and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the endometritis group. There was a significant difference in uterine thickness in the endometritis group. Uterine blood flow analyzed by color mode showed a significant increase in the endometritis group, while the spectral mode showed a significant increase in Doppler velocities and blood flow rate accompanied by a significant decrease in Doppler indices. The endometritis group showed ridged, bluish color in the endometrial wall, indicating hyperemia. Biopsy showed mononuclear inflammatory cells and edema in the endometrial interstitial tissue with sloughing of the epithelial lining. Conclusion: Endometritis in mares is associated with oxidative processes and presents with an increase in MDA and NOMs and a decrease in TAC. Doppler ultrasound improved endometritis diagnosis because it showed alterations in uterine vascularization. Chromoendoscopy improved the accuracy in taking biopsy samples because it allows the practitioner to select appropriate areas for biopsy to improve histopathological diagnostic outcomes. Therefore, this technique is worthy of further study in the field of veterinary equine reproduction.

The present study was carried out on pregnant and non-pregnant sexually adult Egyptian domestic queens to investigate the morphology of ovaries, uterus and Doppler findings to their arterial blood flow. The experimental group composed of eighteen (n= 18) female cats (3–6 years old) and four tomcats used for the mating method (6–9 years old). Four animals from total number were used for dissection, histological preparation and latex injection. The ovary and uterus were supplied by ovarian artery and uterine one, these arteries varied between pregnant and non-pregnant cats and Doppler concerns these findings. Doppler velocities increased reach a highest value of mating day and then decreased in both uterine artery and also a branch of the ovarian artery reached to the entire uterus, in addition to the flow rate and volume increased markedly on the mating day. Both Doppler velocities and Doppler indices are measured in pregnant cats till day 30 of pregnancy in normal pregnant cats (Day 0 = day of mating), as the two Doppler velocities increased linearly till reached a maximum values of day 30, while two Doppler indices decreased linearly from day 0 till day 30, in addition to blood flow rate and volume increased similar to blood velocities. In conclusion: complete examination with anatomical, histological and Doppler findings in uteroovarian vascularization waveform is essential to differentiate between non-pregnant and pregnant adult domestic cats in order to facilitate early diagnosis of any abnormalities in the feline genital tract and to predict the vascularity status.

This study was aimed to investigate the combined effect of zinc sulphate and folic acid (ZnF) dietary supplementation on testicular haemodynamics (TH), testicular volume (TV), plasma testosterone levels (T) and semen quality of rams under heat stress conditions. Fifteen Ossimi rams were allocated to three groups: (1) G0 (n = 5) received only basic diet; (2) G1 (n = 5) received basic diet +ZnF (Zn, 0.4 mg/kg bw; F, 0.02 mg/kg bw) and (3) G2 (n = 5) received basic diet +ZnF (Zn, 0.8 mg/kg bw; F, 0.04 mg/kg bw) daily for 60 days. TH was evaluated using colour (testicular coloration, TC) and spectral modes [resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI)] Doppler of the supra-testicular arteries (proximal and distal parts, STA). Semen traits including progressive motility (PM), alive sperm % (AS), sperm viability (SV), sperm abnormalities (SA) and acrosome integrity (AI) were also assessed. The examinations were carried out one month before (D-30), the beginning of ZnF inclusion in the diet (D 0) and continued for the successive two months (D 30 and D 60). TH was significantly (p .05) improved at D 30 and D 60, evidenced by lowering both RI and PI and increasing of TC in G1 compared to G0 and G2. In addition, both TV and serum T levels were elevated (p .05) at D 30 and D 60 in G1 compared to other groups. Semen quality parameters (PM, AS, SV and AI) were significantly (p .05) augmented in the same trend as TH, TV and T in G1 versus G0 and G2. A marked decrease (p .05) in SA % was noticed at Days 30 and 60 after ZnF inclusion in G1 compared to G0 and G2. In conclusion, supplementation of the summer diet with ZnF improved the whole reproductive functions such as testicular haemodynamics and semen quality of rams housed in heat stress conditions.

Improving the reproductive performance outside the breeding season could have a great impact on the animals' breeding industry. Curcumin (CUR) is a polyphenol known for its multi-effects on different biological issues due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptotic properties. This study aimed, for the first time, to assess the supplemental dietary CUR effects on Baladi bucks' reproductive performance in the non-breeding season. Ten Baladi bucks were used and allocated to two groups: the CON group received the basal diet only (n = 5); and the CUR group received the basal diet supplemented with CUR (200 mg/kg diet; n = 5) daily for six weeks. Testicular hemodynamics [TH; resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), peak systolic velocity (PSV), and colored area toward the testes/pixels(CA)], testicular traits [testicular volume (TV) and echotexture (TE)], reproductive hormones [FSH, LH, testosterone (T) and estradiol 17β (E2)], nitric oxide levels (NO), and semen quality [mass motility (MM; score 0-5), progressive motility (PM%), normal sperm (NS%), viability (SV%) and sperm concentration (SC × 10

This study investigates the changes in endometrial thickness between ipsilateral and contralateral uterine horns, diameter, blood flow area and hormonal concentrations in cows during natural and induced oestrus. In the induced group, six cows received a controlled internal device insert for 7 days. In the normal and induced oestrous group (n = 12), Doppler was performed day after day from day 5 till day 15. Oestradiol, progesterone and nitric oxide metabolites (NOMs) were measured. Results showed that dorsal, ventral and cross-section diameter of the ipsilateral horn increased during the induced oestrous group to reach a maximum on day 2 than during normal one. The total coloured area in both horns in a normal and induced group was also affected (p < .001), as the total coloured area in the ipsilateral horns, increased in the induced group, reach a maximum on day 2 after ovulation, while in normal it reaches a maximum on day of ovulation. Oestradiol increased during the induced cycle than during the normal one, but progesterone increased during days after ovulation reaches a higher value on day 10 in both groups. Nitric oxide showed two peaks, one on the day 3 and another peak on day 5. Conclusion: The ipsilateral uterine horn different diameters and thickness increased more rapidly in the induced oestrous group than the natural oestrus group. A complete analysis of variations in P4 and E2 concentrations and endometrial thickness suggested that decreases in P4 concentrations were related to an increase in endometrial thickness and that increases in E2 concentrations enhanced these endometrial changes.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a single intramuscular injection of melatonin on response of oestrus, rate of conception, ovarian and uterine blood supply during the non-breeding season. Melatonin powder was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and olive oil and injected in two dose of 25 mg (MEL-1; n = 10) and 50 mg (MEL-2; n = 10) in May. Ten ewes were served as the control (CON). Results showed that oestrous response was higher in the MEL-2 group than in other groups (p .01). The time to onset of oestrus in both the MEL-1 and MEL-2 groups was significantly shorter, compared with the CON group (p .01). Pregnancy rates reached 80% and 90% at 45 days of gestation. Doppler indices of the right and left ovarian artery were lower in the melatonin groups than in normal groups (p .01). Both Doppler indices in uterine arteries were not different among two treatment groups (p .05), but there was a significant difference when compared with the CON group (p .01), no difference found between two treatment group in the Doppler velocities of middle uterine arteries (p .05). In conclusion, the definite changes in the studied parameters showed two novel findings; (a) the increase in melatonin dose results in increasing the blood flow expressed by increased Doppler velocities in fatty tailed ewes, (b) as well as, melatonin can initiate the breeding season regardless of the season earlier by 1-2 months in ewes.

To investigate the ovarian and uterine blood flow responses, hemodynamic, circulating ovarian hormones and nitric oxide (NO) after end of treatment by Folltropin. Holstein Friesian (12) cows previously synchronized with CIDR underwent Doppler ultrasound after administrating of FSH daily for 4 days in eight injections started on day 10 of the second ovulation (day -5). Oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and nitric oxide (NOMs) were measured. During the follicular phase, follicle area and antrum area of the second cycle reached maximum value on the day of ovulation compared with that in the first cycle, while during the luteal phase, both showed a pattern of increase and decrease. The luteal area and total coloured area increased till day 10 in the first and second cycle. The first cycle ipsilateral ovarian artery (Ov.A) had higher pulsatility (PI) (p = .001), resistance (RI) (p = .001), peak velocity (PSV) (p = .009) and lower end-diastolic velocity (EDV) (p = .003) compared with the second cycle. The increased ipsilateral Ov.A PSV (p = .009) was accompanied by lower EDV. The first cycle ipsilateral middle uterine artery (MUA) had higher PI (p = .001) and RI (p = .001), with lower PSV (p = .001) and EDV (p = .001). It was concluded that blood flow of ovarian and middle uterine arteries changed after the end of superstimulation as the increased ipsilateral Ov. A and MUA PSVs accompanied by lower EDV and both Doppler indices that reflect the amount of ovarian and uterine blood flow waveform.

This study used autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to treat acute endometritis in jennies with follow-up for alterations in uterine hemodynamics, endoscopic, immunohistochemistry, oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, pro-inflammatory regulatory molecules, and transmembrane mucin expressions. Ten jennies suffering from endometritis (acute type; n = 10) were included in the study. PRP was prepared from each animal and two intrauterine infusions one week apart were administrated. Examination and follow-up were done physically, ultrasonographically, endoscopically and samples were taken for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and bacteriological examination. Blood and uterine fluid samples were taken to estimate biochemical and oxidative stress alterations. Expression of TRAF6 and MUC1 genes was investigated in uterine fluid, at days -1 (day of diagnosis establishment), 7, 14, and 21. Uterine bacteriological examination showed a decrease in bacterial isolates after PRP treatment. The uterine thickness and uterine vascular perfusion as illustrated by color Doppler ultrasonography were significantly decreased in jennies treated by PRP. Uterine spectral wave pattern showed a significant linear increase in pulsatility index only. Three weeks after first PRP treatment, white light endoscopic examination revealed normal uterine body mucosa and uterine horn folds. A high nuclear factor (NF-κB) expression was seen in the mononuclear cells. A significant reduction in oxidative stress biomarkers in both serum and uterine fluid was recorded after PRP treatment. The TRAF-1 gene expression significantly decreased gradually after intrauterine PRP infusion. The MUC-1 gene expression significantly decreased gradually after intrauterine PRP infusion. Both genes were within normal levels by week 3. Endometritis in jennies is associated with an oxidative process, alterations in serum biochemical parameters, Doppler indices, endoscopic appearance, high NF-κB expression, and upregulation of TRAF-1 and MUC-1 expressions. Two intrauterine infusions of autologous PRP restored normal endometrial appearance after acute endometritis.

Doppler ultrasonography enabled understanding of the reproductive system hemodynamics in cyclic and pregnant cattle. To confirm the hypothesis that the ipsilateral ovarian and uterine arterial blood flows to the ovulating ovary are higher than the contralateral one along days and phases (follicular, early luteal, mid-luteal, late luteal) of the estrous cycle, eight cyclic spontaneously ovulating cows were scanned with Doppler ultrasound each other day along three oestrous cycles to monitor the follicular dynamics, the vascularization of the ovulatory follicle (OF), the corpus luteum (CL) developmental dynamics, the ipsilateral and the contralateral ovarian and uterine arterial diameters and their blood flow. Results proved the hypothesis. Both days and phases of the estrus cycle influenced (P = 0.0001) the follicular dynamic, the luteal hemodynamics, the ovarian and uterine hemodynamic. The ovulatory wave and the mid-luteal non-ovulatory wave had expanding numbers and the diameters of small, medium and large follicles. Though area, antral area, vascularization area of the OF ascended from Day −4 to the day of ovulation (Day 0), but the percent of its vascularization area and that of granulose layer increased till Day −3. The CL diameter increase till Day 15, and its vascularization area increased till Day 13, but its% of vascularization area ascended (P = 0.0001) from Days 1–4 and declined from Days 9–13. Both RI and PI of the ipsilateral ovarian artery were lower than the contralateral one; but, both obtained high values during the follicular phase. A linear increase (P = 0.0001) of uterine horns vascularization area and both ovarian and uterine arteries diameters, PSV and EDV from follicular to late luteal phases accompanied a linear decrease of their PI and RI. In conclusion, the ovarian and uterine blood flows vary according to the estrous day, estrous phase, the ovulating ovary, ovulatory follicle growth and corpus luteum developmental stage.

This study aimed to determine the usefulness of colour and pulsed Doppler modes for the accurate diagnosis of donkeys suffering from subfertility to determine whether testicular vascularity assessment could be an indicator for sperm functionality. The study sample was composed of 10 male donkeys with normospermia (control group) and 10 donkeys with hypospermia. Animals underwent scrotal circumference measurement, testicular Doppler examination, seminal evaluation, blood sampling and hormonal assay. Semen volume and concentration were significantly (p ≤ .05) lower in the subfertile group (30.25 ± 1.22 ml and 89.44 ± 2.55 × 106 /ml) as compared with the control group (82.76 ± 1.65 ml and 452.78 ± 1.25 × 106 /ml), and total sperm/ejaculation was significantly (p ≤ .05) higher in the normal donkeys (28.30 ± 2.32 × 109 /total ejaculated) as compared with the subfertile group. Intratesticular coloured area showed a marked decline in the hypospermic males. There was no significant difference between the two groups in testosterone level, although the normal group showed an increase in nitric oxide metabolites. Both Doppler indices of the three branches of the testicular artery were elevated significantly (p ≤ .05) in abnormal donkeys, whereas Doppler peak systolic and end-diastolic velocities were increased in the normal group. Male donkeys with subfertility demonstrated lower arterial vascularity parameters in the form of intratesticular coloured area and blood flow rate; therefore, the most optimal parameters for differentiating subfertile hypospermic from normospermic donkeys were found to be the two Doppler indices, velocities parameters, testicular blood flow rate and nitric oxide levels.

The positive impact of melatonin on in vitro embryo production (IVEP) has been reported in many domestic species; however, no studies have been carried out in camelids. We aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin supplementation in maturation media on in vitro maturation, fertilization, and preimplantation embryo development of dromedary camel oocytes (experiment 1). We also evaluated the concentrations of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the IVM spent medium in relation to melatonin supplementation. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were cultured in in vitro maturation media (IVM) supplemented with either 0.0, 25.0, 50.0 or 75.0 μM of melatonin for 30 h. Matured oocytes were then fertilized in vitro with epididymal camel spermatozoa. Following IVF, the resulting embryos were cultured in vitro for seven days. The percentage of maturation, fertilization, cleavage, and embryo developmental rates (morula and blastocyst) was recorded (experiment 1). TAC and MDA levels in the IVM spent maturation media were also evaluated at 30 h post-IVM (experiment 2). The results showed that supplementation of IVM media with 25 μM melatonin significantly improved oocyte nuclear maturation, fertilization (18 h post-insemination; pi), cleavage (day 3 pi), morula (day 5 pi) and blastocyst (day 7 pi) rates as compared with the controls and other melatonin-supplemented groups. Furthermore, the TAC in the IVM spent media was significantly increased (P 0.05) in 25 μM melatonin supplemented groups than those supplemented with 0.0, 50.0, 75.0 μM melatonin. However, the concentration of MDA was significantly lower (P 0.05) in IVM media supplemented with 25.0 μM of melatonin when compared with the control and other treatment groups. In conclusion, supplementation of IVM medium with 25 μM of melatonin could enhance the in vitro developmental capacity of dromedary camel oocytes.

The present study was performed on 12 heads of donkey’s cadavers of both sexes for different anatomic techniques and on 20 live adult donkeys for ultrasonographic approaches of local anesthetic techniques. The aim was to achieve safe desensitization of the ear canal and tympanic membrane in addition to measuring different parameters of the structures occupying the infra-auricular parotid region. The internal auricular nerve was divided into two fine branches and constituting, at its origin, a characteristic V-shape with the caudal auricular nerve. The styloid process of auricular cartilage was an adequate landmark for ultrasonographic needle-guided anesthesia for internal auricular and auriculopalpebral nerves, whereas the great auricular nerve was easily palpated subcutaneously that showed safety and success in all cases. The auricular branch of mandibular nerve joined the auriculopalpebral branch of facial nerve. The maxillary vein was descending, partially embedded within the texture of the parotid glandular tissue. The parotid gland divided into five segments was clearly demarcated by maxillary vein tributaries with three main collecting radicles pouring into the parotid duct. The mandibular duct received about 12–15 fine radicles and supplied with a separate branch from the external carotid artery. Using the Doppler sonographic technique in donkeys for diagnosis of ear affections, evaluation of retrograde sialography to salivary glands with their blood vasculature and their indices might be helpful for the detection of different critical abnormalities, such as stenosis, thrombosis, and other vasopathological affections through measuring their resistivity and pulsatility indices.

To investigate the development of treated and untreated hormonal anovulatory follicles (AnOV) associated with uterine and ovarian vascularization, rectal Doppler ultrasound of seven Arabian mares was performed before and after the development of an AnOV. In addition to measuring the diameter, area and volume of the follicle, daily colour and power Doppler scans were analysed in order to measure red, blue and power blood flow areas in pixels. Serum levels of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), leptin, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured as well. The diameter (cm), area (cm2), volume (cm3), area in pixels, antral area in pixels, circumference, and percentage change in circulation of the AnOV progressively increased (P

The present detailed study aimed to establish for the first time the ovarian and uterine hemodynamic change in dairy cows after the end of the puerperal period to investigate a possible association between Doppler indices and volume of blood flow. Twenty cows weighing 500–600 kg (mean 400 ± 50 kg) and 4–5 years of age (mean 3.2 ± 0.5 years) categorized into two main groups (true anestrum, with corpus luteum, n = 10) and (normal cyclic, n = 10), The period of examination started from day 39 till day 70 after calving with day after day routinely examination by b-mode and Doppler performed on both ovaries with ovarian arteries (OA) and uterus with uterine arteries (MUA) in the ipsilateral (ipsi) and contralateral (contra) side to ovulation, in addition to a thickness in horns and body was measured. Estradiol and progesterone were also measured. Results showed that both Doppler indices in the OA and MUA ipsi and contra had a positive (P ≤ 0.001) correlation with contra Doppler indices, but revealed a negative (P ≤ 0.05) correlation with ipsi and contra Doppler velocities, blood flow rate and volume in anestrum cows. Both ovarian and uterine ipsi indices showed an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in the anestrum cows, and both PSV and EDV of both arteries ipsilateral showed (P ≤ 0.05) a decrease in the anestrum cows, the ipsi and contra ovarian and uterine colored % were lower in anestrum group than the normal group. Estradiol (P ≤ 0.05) decreased in anestrum cows than the normal, while progesterone increased in the anestrum group. Conclusion, although uterine and ovarian morphology were changed in anestrum cows, the vascular system of the ovary as well as uterus underwent much more marked vascular changes, the most significant being that of blood flow velocities and volume.

This study aimed to investigate dynamics of dominant and subordinate follicles' change of dimensions, vascularity, and angiogenic hormones from deviation to ovulation. Ten cyclic mares were subjected to daily blood sampling and Doppler examination along two estrous cycles. Three diameters were recorded for each follicle to estimate its area and volume. Leptin, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1), nitric oxide (NO) and estradiol were measured. Area of color and power Doppler modes with antral area and circumference of all follicles was measured in pixels. Follicles were classified into first large preovulatory follicle (1st F-ov), second large (2nd F-ov), and third large (3rd F-ov) on the ovulating ovary and on the contralateral nonovulating ovary into first (1st F-contra) and second large (2nd F-contra). Days before ovulation significantly (P

This study hypothesized that ovarian response for superovulation is better when using compounds containing luteinizing hormone (LH). To compare the ovarian responses and the ovarian blood flow using three gonadotropins, three equal groups of Holstein cows (N = 18) were treated with Pluset (P), Follitropin (F), and eCG (G). The ovarian response was evaluated from the day of starting treatments (Day -5) till Day 5 after ovulation using Doppler ultrasound. Results revealed that the ovarian arteries pulsatility index (PI), peak systolic velocity (PSV), and the blood flow volume (BFV) varied (P0.0001) between both ovarian arteries. Cows treated with P had low number of small and medium follicles and a high number of the large follicles on Day -1. Cows treated with F showed low (P = 0.0001) number and percentage of colored follicles and high % of ovulated follicles (P=0.0001) that obtained high colored areas (P = 0.043) and colored area % (P = 0.001). The G produced more (P = 0.001) colored follicles (Days -1, 0) of low area. Both P and G had the same higher (P = 0.0001) percentages of colored follicles (80 %) on Day-1 than F (60 %). F and P had higher ovulated colored follicles % than G. P obtained nearly the same ovulated follicles diameters and areas as F with higher antrum area (P = 0.029) but lower colored area (P = 0.043) and colored area % (P = 0.001). In conclusion, the number and the doses of gonadotropin injections and the side of the ovary influenced the ovarian response.