Abstract: An apparatus for separating and collecting one or more oocytes from a fluid mixture includes a chamber inserted into a hollow elongate tube. An inlet channel receives an injected fluid mixture of oocytes and extraneous fluids and passes the fluid mixture to the hollow elongate tube. A separation unit positioned within the chamber includes a porous filter that selectively filters the fluid mixture to retain the oocytes in the hollow elongate tube, and a propeller for agitating the extraneous fluids for allowing unobstructed passage of the extraneous fluids into an outlet channel and for compactly collecting fibrin elements from the extraneous fluids. A flow of the extraneous fluids rotates the propeller on application of a vacuum suction force. Furthermore, the chamber includes an outlet channel for allowing passage of the extraneous fluids separated from the fluid mixture out of the chamber, and retaining the oocytes in the hollow elongate tube.

Abstract: Devices, compositions, and methods for handling, separating, packaging, and utilization of spermatozoa (1) that can be derived from previously frozen sperm samples collected from a male mammal. Specifically, techniques to uniformily stain (2) spermatozoal DNA even when derived from previously frozen sperm and separation techniques to separate and isolate spermatozoa even when derived from previously frozen sperm samples into X-chromosome bearing and Y-chromosome bearing populations having high purity.

Abstract: A single nucleotide polymorphic site at position 59752 of the bovine PGR gene is associated with improved fertilization rate or early embryo survival. Disclosed are nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods.

Abstract: The present provides novel systems and methods to facilitate embryo transfer, to maximize implantation rates and to improve pregnancy rates resulting from In Vitro fertilization.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for detecting MusPV, also known as MmuPv1, infection of a rodent subject are described according to aspects of the present invention. In specific aspects, the present invention relates to assays for detecting MusPV infection of a rodent subject; vaccine compositions for inducing an immunological response against MusPV in a rodent subject; methods of inducing an immunological response to MusPV in a rodent subject; isolated MusPV protein; isolated antibodies which specifically binds to an MusPV protein, a fragment or variant thereof; isolated recombinantly expressed MusPV proteins; expression constructs comprising a nucleic acid encoding an MusPV protein; host cells comprising the expression construct; and hybridoma cell lines expressing an anti-MusPV monoclonal antibody specific for MusPV.

Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphic sites at positions 3117, 12195, 13244, 13319, and 13516 of the bovine STAT5 gene are associated with improved fertilization rate and/or improved embryo survival rate. Also disclosed are nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods.

Abstract: A conception device includes a dome having a collapsible sidewall, an annular rim, and three or more gripping flanges along the inner surface of the rim. The gripping flanges may effectively position and secure the device over the cervix for the concentration of semen on the cervical os to effect fertilization independently or with the aid of biologically active agents. The device may additionally include a handle extending from the annular rim at an angle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the production and culture of undifferentiated spermatogonial stem cells that can be maintained long term and are feeder free. The resultant feeder-free populations can be used in any of a number of protocols including the generation of progeny bulls. The present invention includes novel methods required for the successful enrichment of bovine spermatogonial stem cells, novel cell lines and other components used for the same, as well as the resultant stem cell compositions.

Abstract: An integrated microfluidic device and its usage are provided. The microfluidic device comprises an upper layer (1) and a lower layer (2), wherein the lower layer (2) is bound to the upper layer (1). The upper layer (1) comprises a micro-channel (3) and the lower layer (2) comprises a micro-well (7) array. The micro-channel (3) is in fluidic connection with the micro-well (7) array, and the height of the micro-channel (3) is greater than the diameter of the oocyte (4) flowing through the micro-channel (3). The integrated microfluidic device has many advantages including low cost, high integration, and convenient operation, and has application prospects in reproductive medicine and the research of fertilization and embryo early development.

Abstract: A sex selected equine embryo production system for the production of sex selected equine embryos and offspring by fertilization of oocytes with sex selected sperm by intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Abstract: A heterogeneous inseminate including a first amount of sperm of a first animal and a second amount of sperm of a second animal of the same species, the first amount of sperm and the second amount of sperm sex-selected sperm of the same sex, useful in the in-vivo or in-vitro fertilization of an egg of a female animal of the same species for the production of sex-selected embryos and sex-selected offspring.

Abstract: A catheter including a shaft comprising a body with a proximal portion and a distal portion, the body defining an opening from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the distal portion having an end that is beveled in a first direction across an end opening, such that a length of the shaft to a first point on the end is a first length and a length of the shaft to a second point on the end is a second length longer than the first length. A method including placing at least one embryo near an open end of a catheter, inserting the open end of the catheter into an endometrial lining of a subject's uterus, using the catheter to open a flap of the endometrial lining, and transferring the at least one embryo from the catheter to the pocket site.

Abstract: A catheter including a shaft comprising a body with a proximal portion and a distal portion, the body defining an opening from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the distal portion having an end that is beveled in a first direction across an end opening, such that a length of the shaft to a first point on the end is a first length and a length of the shaft to a second point on the end is a second length longer than the first length. A method including placing at least one embryo near an open end of a catheter, inserting the open end of the catheter into an endometrial lining of a subject's uterus, using the catheter to open a flap of the endometrial lining, and transferring the at least one embryo from the catheter to the pocket site.

Abstract: A conception device includes a dome having a collapsible sidewall, an annular rim, and three or more gripping flanges along the inner surface of the rim. The gripping flanges may effectively position and secure the device over the cervix for the concentration of semen on the cervical os to effect fertilization independently or with the aid of biologically active agents. The device may additionally include a handle extending from the annular rim at an angle.

Abstract: A detection tag and apparatus for the detection of the reproductive status of animals, or for assisting in the drafting of selected animals. The detection tag is capable of electronically transmitting a signal. Tags for detecting the reproductive status of an animal have a first surface that is affixable to the hide of an animal and a second and opposite surface which includes abradable material. Such detection tags are configured such that removal of some or all of the abradable material alters the ability of the detection tag to transmit a signal electronically or alters a characteristic of the electronically transmitted signal. A tag reader is used to read the signal from the tag. The detection tag can include an RF/EMF blocking circuit/loop and/or removable flood coat layer which is damaged/removed partially or completely during mounting of the animal allowing the tag to indicate a status change.

Abstract: Transgenic artiodactyls are described as well as methods of making and using such artiodactyls.

Abstract: Methods and devices for dispersion of clusters of somatic plant embryos suspended in a liquid are disclosed. The methods comprise i) subjecting the clusters of embryos to fluid dynamics forces causing axially extensional strain and radially compressional strain and ii) subjecting the clusters of embryos to fluid dynamics forces causing axially compressional strain and radially extensional strain fluid dynamics and iii) repeating said steps in sequence until the individual embryos are separated from each other. The devices may comprise a flow channel including at least one constriction, such that clusters of embryos flowing through the flow channel are first subjected to axially extensional strain and radially compressional strain, and then to axially compressional strain and radially extensional strain from fluid dynamics forces.

Abstract: Oogonial stem cell (OSC)-derived compositions, such as nuclear free cytoplasm or isolated mitochondria, and uses of OSC-derived compositions in autologous fertility-enhancing procedures are described.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port and at least one delivery catheter for placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.

Abstract: Purified air is provided, having a TVOC content of from less than 5 ppb to about 500 ppb, a Biologicals content of from less than 1 CFU/M3 to 150 CFU/M3 and a Particulate content of from about 1,000 0.3 ?m particles per ft3 to about 50,000 0.3 ?m particles per ft3, or from about 600 0.5 ?m particles per ft3 to about 500,000 0.5 ?m particles per ft3.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to compositions and methods for the detection of zinc. In particular, compositions and methods are provided to detect changes in cellular zinc concentration and to correlate them to cellular phenomena.

Abstract: The invention relates to an incubator for babies. It is of special value for the treatment of premature infants as an intensive care unit at any time during life from creation to implantation. A cradle is sided with ports to enable fluidic ventilation. Advantageously the incubator includes an optical path for imaging the patient via a clear bottom and open top. The incubator is provided with easy access and various accessories required for an intensive care unit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for improving viability and/or stress tolerance of viable biological material and using the said material comprising applying hydrostatic pressure to said biological material; keeping the said viable biological material at the hydrostatic pressure for a predetermined time period; releasing the hydrostatic pressure; and using the said material for any desired purpose in accordance with any useful protocol. The usage of the said biological material incorporates any techniques, protocols that are applicable in the field of assisted reproductive techniques, biotechnical and/or biotechnological manipulations.

Abstract: A device for aspirating sample media into a pipette for use in a micro-manipulation procedure includes a ring member having an opening sized for receiving a digit of an operator, and an aspirating bulb engaged with the ring member. The aspirating bulb has an open end sized for receiving an end of the pipette, and includes a compressible chamber capable of creating a suction force suitable for aspirating the sample media into the pipette. The aspirating bulb is oriented along the ring member such that the chamber is compressible by a digit on the same hand of the operator as the digit receivable in the ring member.

Abstract: A retrievable intrauterine device for placing within a uterine cavity one or more encapsulated elements capable of having interactions with uterine fluid comprising an intrauterine device loaded with the encapsulated elements.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods for rejuvenating normal somatic cells and for making normal somatic cells of a different type having the same genotype as a normal somatic cell of interest. These cells have particular application in cell and tissue transplantation. Also encompassed are methods of re-cloning cloned animals, particularly methods where the offspring of cloned mammals are designed to be genetically altered in comparison to their cloned parent, e.g., that are “hyper-young.” These animals should be healthier and possess desirable properties relative to their cloned parent. Also included are methods for activating endogenous telomerase, EPC-1 activity, and or the ALT pathway and/or extending the life-span of a normal somatic cell, and other genes associated with cell aging and proliferation capacity.

Abstract: A sperm cell process system providing to generate sperm cell insemination samples having controlled sperm cell fertility characteristics of sperm cells.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiment, bovine semen is mixed with a suitable solution to form an insemination medium which is injected into the reproductive organs of a female bovine to flood the uterine horns in a nonsurgical AI procedure. The invention includes an AI instrument having a disposable, single use pipette that may be used with this nonsurgical procedure. The AI instrument does not include a balloon and is referred to as “catheter free”. Preferably, the uterine horns are flooded concurrently, but in the alternative, they may be flooded sequentially.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for reorienting an implantable port. In one embodiment, an implantable port is provided and includes a base adapted to be anchored to tissue, and a housing pivotally mounted on the base and having a septum formed therein and adapted to receive fluid and to provide access to a fluid reservoir formed within the housing. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing can be pivotally mounted to the base using a ball and socket joint. For example, at least one of a distal surface of the housing and a proximal surface of the base is convex, and the other one of the distal surface of the housing and the proximal surface of the base is concave.

Abstract: The present invention relates to female germline stem cells and their progenitors, methods of isolation thereof, and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port and at least one delivery catheter for placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cervical condom for aiding in conception comprising: a dome shape flexible device, where said device is made of a flexible material; and a rim surrounding the outer perimeter of the device. The device is capable of containing a sperm sample for application upon a user's cervix. In one exemplary embodiment, the flexible material is silicone and the condom measures in a range of about two to five centimeters in length.

Abstract: The device comprises an injection system, which is made up of a rigid external tubular body (1) that enables it to be inserted into the abdominal cavity of a sow. This body is, in turn, covered by a sterile sleeve (2) that enables it to be used in different animals. A flexible duct (3) runs coaxially and its distal end connects with a bevelled needle (4) that permits insertion in the oviduct (12) at an angle of 45°. The proximal end of the flexible tube connects with a device (6) that includes a sheath (7) closed at the other end by a piston (8) that slides along the inside of the sheath and that enables the precision insertion of low-volume liquids.

Abstract: Provided is a multiple birth prognostic tool that is used to analyze data in order to predict a multiple birth event in a female human patient undergoing an infertility treatment. The MBP prognostic tool may also be used to enhance the accuracy of diagnostic or prognostic tests that predict embryo viability. The MBP prognostic tool of the present invention may be clinic specific or it may be modified to be used in a multi-clinic approach.

Abstract: A method for breeding bovines, especially a method for breeding dairy and beef cattle without use of heat detection prior to insemination or embryo implantation.

Abstract: A container or dish used for the micro manipulation, micro injection, biopsy and fertilization of oocyte and embryo culture. The dish allows the user to more readily perform procedures used to fertilize oocyte, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), biopsy embryos and perform additional procedures in used in assisted reproductive techniques (ART), human reproduction and in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques. The invention will allow ease in use, the reduction in the number of micro tools used in the procedure, as opposed to conventional dishes and procedures, and will allow the user to more readily locate the oocytes and embryos to be handled and worked on. The invention will add repetitiveness, consistency and may result in better results and outcome of the procedures. The invention will also give the user a more ergonomically correct dish for these types of procedures and related protocols.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.

Abstract: A sex selected equine embryo production system for the production of sex selected equine embryos and offspring by fertilization of oocytes with sex selected sperm by intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Abstract: There is provided a method for controlling a flow of fluid and/or other bodily matter in a lumen formed by a tissue wall of a patient's organ. The method comprises gently constricting (i.e., without substantially hampering the blood circulation in the tissue wall) at least one portion of the tissue wall to influence the flow in the lumen, and stimulating the constricted wall portion to cause contraction of the wall portion to further influence the flow in the lumen. The method can be used for restricting or stopping the flow in the lumen, or for actively moving the fluid in the lumen, with a low risk of injuring the organ. Such an organ may be the esophagus, stomach, intestines, urine bladder, urethra, ureter, renal pelvis, aorta, corpus cavernosum, exit veins of erectile tissue, uterine tube, vas deferens or bile duct, or a blood vessel.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods useful for determining an animal's genotype and to select animals having a desired genotype. Embodiments of the invention also provide isolated nucleic acid molecules and analytical kits that may be used to determine an animal's genotype. Furthermore, the present invention provides methods for improving desirable animal traits including improved growth, enhanced body composition, and improved reproductive traits. The invention also provides methods for allocating animals for predetermined uses, for picking potential parent animals for breeding, and for producing progeny animals. The instant invention also provides methods for identifying associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and phenotypic traits. Also provided are methods for identifying genetic markers in allelic association with the SNP disclosed herein and for identifying the genotypes of a causative mutation underlying a quantitative trait locus (QTL).

Abstract: The invention relates to a diagnostic method for detecting susceptibility to delivery, and to a test kit for this purpose. A low, but higher than baseline level concentration of Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1 (IGFBP-1), which is due to leakage from decidual cells, is detected by an immunological assay in a vaginal secretion sample.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions for treating male sub-fertility that include an agent that causes a reduction in an effect of extracellular DNA on sperm cells, are provided. The agent may be, for example, an enzyme that degrades DNA such as DNase, a substance that blocks the interaction between cell free DNA and sperm cell surface receptors, a substance that binds to DNA, a substance that inhibits endogenous sperm cell DNase, a substance that inhibits a member of a signal transduction pathway mediated by DNA binding to sperm cell surface receptors, or an agent that stimulates production of an endogenous substance that causes a reduction in an antifertility effect of cell free DNA on sperm cells. Also provided are methods for treating male sub-fertility by administering the pharmaceutical composition to a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: Methods for generating embryos using pluripotent stem cells are provided. The subject methods include methods for generating chimeric embryos, wherein only a subset of the cells of each embryo are genetically identical to the pluripotent stem cells used in the generation process. The subject methods also include methods for generating embryos that are identical or are essentially genetic clones of the pluripotent stem cells (e.g., the resulting embryos are substantially identical, genetically, to the pluripotent stem cells used in the generation process).

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for improving desirable dairy traits through the use of a genetic profile. Also provided are methods for determining an animal's genotype with respect to multiple markers used in the analysis of the genetic profile. In some embodiments, the genetic profile includes at least one marker associated with the polled trait. The invention also provides methods for selecting or allocating animals for predetermined uses, for picking potential parent animals for breeding, and for producing improved dairy products.

Abstract: A method for breeding bovines, especially a method for breeding dairy and beef cattle without use of heat detection prior to insemination or embryo implantation.

Abstract: The invention is designed to enhance mammalian reproduction and in particular to improve the use of existing artificial insemination catheters in combination with novel products and processes for the insemination of mammals such as pigs. The invention comprises a controlled/sustained release delivery system comprising a metabolite/carrier combination based on specific gels, polymers and/or other molecular complexes for metabolite delivery at the point of insemination in order to promote aspects of spermatozoa function.

Abstract: Non-surgical artificial insemination is achieved for sexed and unsexed equines in a commercially practical manner and with dosages of insemination sperm which were not previously thought to be practical for commercial implementation. Practical and field usable techniques for insemination are presented as well as techniques which offer success ratios at level comparable to the existing routine, high dosage unsexed artificial insemination techniques in equines. Improved insemination and sorting systems particularly adapted to use for sex-selected sperm are disclosed.

Abstract: Methods are provided for activating dormant ovarian primordial follicles in a mammal to promote development to preovulatory follicles.