• Animal Bioscience
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• v.37 no.1
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• pp.50-60
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• 2024

Objective: Testicular fat deposition has been reported to affect animal reproduction. However, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. The present study explored whether sperm meiosis and testosterone synthesis contribute to mouse testicular fat deposition-induced reproductive performance. Methods: High fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity CD1 mice (DIO) were used as a testicular fat deposition model. The serum hormone test was performed by agent kit. The quality of sperm was assessed using a Sperm Class Analyzer. Testicular tissue morphology was analyzed by histochemical methods. The expression of spermatocyte marker molecules was monitored by an immuno-fluorescence microscope during meiosis. Analysis of the synthesis of testosterone was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and reagent kit. Results: It was found that there was a significant increase in body weight among DIO mice, however, the food intake showed no difference compared to control mice fed a normal diet (CTR). The number of offspring in DIO mice decreased, but there was no significant difference from the CTR group. The levels of follicle-stimulating hormone were lower in DIO mice and their luteinizing hormone levels were similar. The results showed a remarkable decrease in sperm density and motility among DIO mice. We also found that fat accumulation affected the meiosis process, mainly reflected in the cross-exchange of homologous chromosomes. In addition, overweight increased fat deposition in the testis and reduced the expression of testosterone synthesis-related enzymes, thereby affecting the synthesis and secretion of testosterone by testicular Leydig cells. Conclusion: Fat accumulation in the testes causes testicular cell dysfunction, which affects testosterone hormone synthesis and ultimately affects sperm formation.

• Food Science of Animal Resources
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• v.44 no.4
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• pp.779-789
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• 2024

The effects of irradiation on meat constituents including water, proteins, and lipids are multifaceted. Irradiation leads to the decomposition of water molecules, resulting in the formation of free radicals that can have both positive and negative effects on meat quality and storage. Although irradiation reduces the number of microorganisms and extends the shelf life of meat by damaging microbial DNA and cell membranes, it can also accelerate the oxidation of lipids and proteins, particularly sulfur-containing amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. With regard to proteins, irradiation affects both myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins. Myofibrillar proteins, such as actin and myosin, can undergo depolymerization and fragmentation, thereby altering protein solubility and structure. Sarcoplasmic proteins, including myoglobin, undergo structural changes that can alter meat color. Collagen, which is crucial for meat toughness, can undergo an increase in solubility owing to irradiation-induced degradation. The lipid content and composition are also influenced by irradiation, with unsaturated fatty acids being particularly vulnerable to oxidation. This process can lead to changes in the lipid quality and the production of off-odors. However, the effects of irradiation on lipid oxidation may vary depending on factors such as irradiation dose and packaging method. In summary, while irradiation can have beneficial effects, such as microbial reduction and shelf-life extension, it can also lead to changes in meat properties that need to be carefully managed to maintain quality and consumer acceptability.

• The Journal of Korea Institute of Information, Electronics, and Communication Technology
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• v.17 no.3
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• pp.146-154
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• 2024

In this paper, we present a convenient liquid crystal (LC) molecular alignment method using brush hairs as an alternative to the rubbing process in the LC display industry. Titanium strontium yttrium zirconium oxide (TiSrYZrO) solution was prepared using a sol-gel process, and the TiSrYZrO alignment film production and LC molecular alignment were integrated through a one-step brush coating process. As the curing temperature increased, the LC molecule alignment of the LC cell improved, and the formation of a physical surface anisotropic structure due to the shear stress caused by the movement of the brush hairs on the coating surface led to uniform alignment of the LC molecules. Uniform and homogeneous LC molecular alignment was confirmed through polarizing optical microscopy and pretilt angle measurement. Through thermal oxidation using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the TiSrYZrO thin film well formed of metal oxide was confirmed and verified to have excellent optical transparency. From these results, it is expected that a convenient LC molecular alignment method using brush hairs as an alternative to the rubbing process will be a viable next-generation technology.

• Anatomy and Cell Biology
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• v.57 no.1
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• pp.31-44
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• 2024

The exocrine part of the pancreas has a duct system called the pancreatic ductal system (PDS). Its mechanism of development is complex, and any reorganization during early embryogenesis can give rise to anatomical variants. The aim of this study is to collect, classify, and analyze published evidence on the importance of anatomical variants of the PDS, addressing gaps in our understanding of such variations. The MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar databases were searched to identify publications relevant to this review. R studio with meta-package was used for data extraction, risk of bias estimation, and statistical analysis. A total of 64 studies out of 1,778 proved suitable for this review and metanalysis. The meta-analysis computed the prevalence of normal variants of the PDS (92% of 10,514 subjects). Type 3 variants and "descending" subtypes of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) predominated in the pooled samples. The mean lengths of the MPD and accessory pancreatic duct (APD) were 16.53 cm and 3.36 cm, respectively. The mean diameters of the MPD at the head and the APD were 3.43 mm and 1.69 mm, respectively. The APD was present in only 41% of samples, and the long type predominated. The pancreatic ductal anatomy is highly variable, and the incorrect identification of variants may be challenging for surgeons during ductal anastomosis with gut, failure to which may often cause ductal obstruction or pseudocysts formation.

• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• v.25 no.4
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• pp.49.1-49.15
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• 2024

Importance: Endochondral ossification plays an important role in skeletal development. Recent studies have suggested a link between increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and skeletal disorders. Moreover, previous studies have revealed that increasing the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and osteopontin (OPN) while inhibiting NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) can enhance bone growth. This investigation provides further evidence by showing a direct link between NOX4 and MPO, OPN in bone function. Objective: This study investigates NOX4, an enzyme producing hydrogen peroxide, in endochondral ossification and bone remodeling. NOX4's role in osteoblast formation and osteogenic signaling pathways is explored. Methods: Using NOX4-deficient (NOX4^-/-) and ovariectomized (OVX) mice, we identify NOX4's potential mediators in bone maturation. Results: NOX4^-/- mice displayed significant differences in bone mass and structure. Compared to the normal Control and OVX groups. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed NOX4^-/- mice had the highest trabecular bone volume, while OVX had the lowest. Proteomic analysis revealed significantly elevated MPO and OPN levels in bone marrow-derived cells in NOX4^-/- mice. Immunohistochemistry confirmed increased MPO, OPN, and collagen II (COLII) near the epiphyseal plate. Collagen and chondrogenesis analysis supported enhanced bone development in NOX4^-/- mice. Conclusions and Relevance: Our results emphasize NOX4's significance in bone morphology, mesenchymal stem cell proteomics, immunohistochemistry, collagen levels, and chondrogenesis. NOX4 deficiency enhances bone development and endochondral ossification, potentially through increased MPO, OPN, and COLII expression. These findings suggest therapeutic implications for skeletal disorders.

• Journal of the Korea institute for structural maintenance and inspection
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• v.28 no.4
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• pp.62-67
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• 2024

In this paper, we developed and optimized a chitosan-based polymer microbial bead carrier that is cell-friendly, has a high moisture absorption rate, and effectively provides the conditions for microbial biomineral formation as an optimal microbial carrier that protects microorganisms in concrete, and evaluated the self-healing performance of mortar using it. In order to incorporate circular-shaped microbial endospores, a circular-shaped microbial bead carrier was developed by combining chitosan and alginate polymers, and the amount of calcium carbonate produced could be actively controlled by adjusting the composition of the carrier. The amount of biominerals formed and the size of crystals were maximized in the hydrogel bead carrier containing chitosan, and in the case of mortar cracks using this, it was confirmed that self-healing of cracks with a maximum crack width of 0.3mm was achieved within 96 hours after crack generation.

• Journal of Yeungnam Medical Science
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.116-133
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• 1996

The biocompatibility of the titanium has been estabilished through various experimental studies such as cell culture toxicity test, pyrogen test, mutagen test and others. In order to confirm biocompatibility after fabrication of titanium and to clarify the difference between the bone reaction after insertion of the lathed titanium rods and the bone reaction after insertion of the finished and polished rods, both rods were implanted into the proximal femur of a rabbit. Histologic reactions in the bone were observed according to the ASTM standards at the intervals of 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 26 weeks after implantation. The result were as follows : In 6 weeks after implantation of lathed titanium rods, inflammatory reactions, such as minimal degree infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and lymphocytes were observed in all cases. This was thought to he caused by surgical trauma. However, inflammatory cell infiltration was not seen after implantation of polished and finished rods in all cases. The cellular infiltration and the histologic reaction of the hone after implantation of lathed group were significantly more pronounced than those after implantation of the finished group. In 12 weeks after implantation of lathed rods, two of four cases revealed a minimal degree of cellular infiltration. No inflammatory cell infiltration was demonstrated after implantation of the finished group. The cellular infiltration and histologic reaction seemed to be more pronounced in the lathed group, but they were not significant statistically. At 26 weeks after implantation of the lathed and finished group, there was no cellular infiltration in both groups. New bone formation was observed up 26 weeks, and no difference between lathed titanium rods and finished titanium rods were apparent. Mild bone necrosis was observed in 1 case out of 11 cases in which lathed titanium rods were implanted. Bone necrosis was not observed in the finished titanium rod group. Fibrosis was observed in both groups, but differences were not significant between the experimental groups. In the lathed titanium rods group and the shorter interval group, inflammatory cell infiltration was significantly higher. Finished titanium rods and longer interval groups had markedly decreased tendences in histologic reaction ratings. As a conclusion, although certificated titanium might be safe to use, difference of biocompatibility were observed depending on the method of surface finish. By identifying biocompatibility as a long-term standardized animal study, we can develop progressed internal fixation device that is safe for human beings.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.14 no.9
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• pp.1260-1266
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• 2001

The effect of protein supplementation, $O_2$ concentration and co-culture on the development of embryos produced by nuclear transfer using cultured cumulus cell was investigated. Recipient oocytes and cumulus cells were obtained from the ovaries of the slaughtered Hanwoo cows. Donor cumulus cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum at 5% $CO_2$ in air at $38.5^{\circ}C$. The 1 to 6 passages of cumulus cells were isolated and used as donor cells. The in vitro matured oocytes were enucleated and then the isolated donor cells were introduced. One $15{\mu}s$ pulse of 180 volts was applied to induce the fusion between karyoplast and cytoplast. The fused embryos were activated with $10{\mu}M$ calcium ionophore for 5 min and 2 mM 6-dimethylaminopurine for 3 h. To examine the effect of protein supplementation, nuclear transfer (NT) embryos were cultured in one of the following 4 treatments : 1) CR1aa + 3 mg/ml BSA for 7 days ; 2) CR1aa + 10% FBS for 7 days ; 3) CR1aa + 1.5 mg/ml BSA + 5% FBS for 7 days ; and 4) CR1aa + 3 mg/ml BSA for first 3 days and then CR1aa + 1.5 mg/ml BSA + 5% FBS for 4 days. Culture took place at 5% $CO_2$, 5% $O_2$ and 90% $N_2$ at $38.5^{\circ}C$. Although there were no significant differences in cleavage rate among different protein supplements, the rates of blastocyst formation were significantly different. When NT embryos were cultured in the medium supplemented with only BSA, they could develop to only morula not to blastocyst. However, when FBS was supplemented, NT embryos developed to blastocyst stage. In order to investigate the effect of $O_2$ concentration and co-culture, NT embryos were cultured in CR1aa + 1.5 mg/ml BSA + 5% FBS with or without cumulus cell co-culture at an atmosphere of 5% $CO_2$ in air (20% $O_2$) or 5% $CO_2$, 5% $O_2$, 90% $N_2$ (5% $O_2$) at $38.5^{\circ}C$ for 7 days. The percentage of blastocyst development was significantly higher when the NT embryos were cultured at an atmosphere of 5% $O_2$ than that of 20% $O_2$ (p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between with and without cumulus cell co-culture at an atmosphere of 5% $O_2$ or 20% $O_2$. Fifty embryos were transferred to 25 recipients and 5 recipients were pregnant at 100 days. From 5 pregnant cows, only one cow was delivered of female twin. In conclusion, the embryos reconstructed by enucleation of metaphase II oocytes and introduction of the cycling and quiescent cumulus donor cells in Hanwoo had developmental potential to term after embryo transfer to recipient cows.

• Toxicological Research
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• v.33 no.2
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• pp.107-118
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• 2017

Although alternative test methods based on the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) are being developed to replace animal testing in reproductive and developmental toxicology, they are still in an early stage. Consequently, we aimed to develop alternative test methods in male animals using mouse spermatogonial stem cells (mSSCs). Here, we modified the OECD TG 489 and optimized the in vitro comet assay in our previous study. This study aimed to verify the validity of in vitro tests involving mSSCs by comparing their results with those of in vivo tests using C57BL/6 mice by gavage. We selected hydroxyurea (HU), which is known to chemically induce male reproductive toxicity. The 50% inhibitory concentration ($IC_{50}$) value of HU was 0.9 mM, as determined by the MTT assay. In the in vitro comet assay, % tail DNA and Olive tail moment (OTM) after HU administration increased significantly, compared to the control. Annexin V, PI staining and TUNEL assays showed that HU caused apoptosis in mSSCs. In order to compare in vitro tests with in vivo tests, the same substances were administered to male C57BL/6 mice. Reproductive toxicity was observed at 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day as measured by clinical measures of reduction in sperm motility and testicular weight. The comet assay, DCFH-DA assay, H&E staining, and TUNEL assay were also performed. The results of the test with C57BL/6 mice were similar to those with mSSCs for HU treatment. Finally, linear regression analysis showed a strong positive correlation between results of in vitro tests and those of in vivo. In conclusion, the present study is the first to demonstrate the effect of HU-induced DNA damage, ROS formation, and apoptosis in mSSCs. Further, the results of the current study suggest that mSSCs could be a useful model to predict male reproductive toxicity.

• Applied Microscopy
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• v.36 no.3
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• pp.141-153
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• 2006

The purpose of this study is to find out how soft contact lens multi-purpose solution (MPS), often used for medical treatment, effects the inhibition on cell growth and research the result of using MPS, suspected to demage eye cells, on rabbit eye's corneal epithelium and endothelium tissue. In this treatise, $ReNu^{(R)}$ (Baush & Lomb, USA), Opti-free $express^{(R)}$ (Alcon, USA), Free-sol $plus^{(R)}$ (Hanamedicon, Korea) had been selected among the MPS. After culturing L929 roil line, cell growth inhibition rate was measured by MTT assay, and by making Hematoxylin and Eosin stain specimen. the morphology was observed by optical microscope. In the In vivo experiment,9 white rabbit eyes (18 eyes) were classified into 3 groups. The experimental group is left eyes (9 eyes) of rabbit, and MPS were dropped; however. the control group, the right eyes (9 eyes), were only used a saline solution without preservatives. After the dropping within the period, the cornea surface of rabbit eyes were stained by Rose bengal and observed. To figure out the changes of the corneal epithelium and endothelium tissue scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used. As the result, the rate of cell growth inhibition was 54%. 73% and 36%, respectively. Morphological changes represented that the shape has been changed into oval or round shape and those are not considered as a common formation of L929 cell line. When it comes to staining Rose bengal, each experiment group was stained red which is not shown in controls. The polygonal mosaic pattern of a corneal epithelium was disturbed in the picture taken by SEM; furthermore, the shape of the corneal endothelium was irregular. In conclusion, as we consider antimicrobial effect and the safety on living cells, it is necessary that we should improve concentration of preservatives and study continuously to develop a new preservatives without a toxic effect on the cornea surface.