Abstract: A co-culture apparatus includes: a first airtight container; a co-culture device disposed outside of the first airtight container; a first culture medium source disposed in the first airtight container and storing a first culture medium; a second culture medium source storing a second culture medium having a lower dissolved oxygen concentration than that of the first culture medium; and a first conduit connected to the co-culture device and the first culture medium source. The co-culture device includes: a membrane having a first main surface, and a second main surface opposite to the first main surface for culturing cells; a first flow path partially defined by the first main surface and disposed such that the first culture medium flows therethrough; and a second flow path partially defined by the second main surface and disposed such that the second culture medium flows therethrough. The first flow path has an inlet connected to the first conduit.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining a thermal property of tissue includes a base unit with one or more energy source and at least two, preferably detachable, leads. The distal end of each lead, which is introduced into the tissue to be treated, has at least two longitudinally spaced temperature measuring elements to measure surrounding tissue temperature and at least two longitudinally spaced electrode surfaces for applying current to the tissue. Each distal end is also provided with an element which uses energy emitted by the sources of energy to heat up the surrounding tissue. The base unit has computing elements, current generating elements for generating an alternating current, and conductance determining elements for determining the tissue conductance between pairs of electrode surfaces based on the alternating current applied by the current generating elements to the tissue. Methods for using the device and leads for use in the device are also described.

Abstract: The invention encompasses improved catheters comprised of multiple tubular bodies and methods of using them in artificial insemination.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composition for selective enrichment of progressively motile non-fragmented/intact DNA sperms during swim-up of semen sample comprising combination of electrolytes, a mix of excipients, polyyvinylpyrrolidone, recombinant human serum albumin or bovine serum albumin. A method of selective enrichment of DNA-intact sperms using the compositions of the present invention is also disclosed. The DNA fragmentation index of the swim-up sperms are less than the DNA fragmentation index of the neat samples. The media compositions of the present invention are applicable for enrichment of non-fragmented/intact DNA sperms for therapeutic purposes in the field of assisted reproductive technologies.

Abstract: A device for enhancing the chance of conception is disclosed.

Abstract: A device for artificial insemination, gynaecological examination of the vagina and the cervix, intra-uterine treatments and uterine sample collection in livestock. The device includes: a guiding sleeve having a proximal end for being positioned in the reproductive system of the animal and a distal end for being handled by the user; a gynaecological instrument, such as an insemination gun, an insemination or treatment catheter, or a sample-collection swab, slidingly housed in the guiding sleeve, the instrument being capable of being operated by the user at the rear end thereof, located on the side of the distal end of the guiding sleeve, in order for the front end thereof to lead through an opening located at the proximal end of the guiding sleeve so as to allow the insemination, treatment or sample collection. The guiding sleeve has a blocking element for blocking the sliding of the instrument inside the guiding sleeve.

Abstract: A tissue sample processing system and associated methods is disclosed and described. The tissue sample processing system (100) can include a microfluidic separating system (110). The microfluidic separating system (110) can include a fluid channel to receive a carrier fluid (104) and a tissue sample (102), and a plurality of outlets. Flow of the carrier fluid (104) and the tissue sample (102) in the fluid channel can facilitate segregation of materials in the tissue sample (102) based on size into a plurality of size fractions, such that each one of the plurality of outlets receives a different size fraction of the materials in the tissue sample. In addition, the sample processing system (100) can comprise a cryopreservation system (120) associated with at least one of the plurality of outlets to freeze the material in the tissue sample (102) associated with the at least one of the plurality of outlets.

Abstract: The present artificial insemination instrument may include a single use, hollow, elongate, metal pipette and a single disposable syringe that is not toxic to bovine sperm. The apparatus is used with any type of diluent that is not toxic to bovine sperm. In various embodiments, a technician may use non-sorted reduced sperm count semen straws from a bull stud, cut an unsorted semen straw into several pieces to use one piece at a time per cow, thaw one straw and mix the non-sorted semen with diluent, or use reduced sperm count semen straws filled with sex sorted semen by the manufacturer. A procedure is disclosed to use the artificial in semination instrument, reduced sperm count semen from any of the aforementioned sources, a non-toxic syringe, and a diluent to achieve conception rates at least as good as conventional prior art device and procedure conception rates.

Abstract: A device for artificially inseminating a mammal with sperm from a male breeding animal is disclosed, the sperm being introduced through the vagina of the animal into or onto the uterus of the animal which is to be inseminated. The device comprises a tube which can be moved on the uterus through the vagina of the animal which is to be inseminated, and a heatable chamber for accommodating a thin tube containing the sperm, and a drive for removing the sperm from the thin tube and the uterus-sided opening of the tube. The device comprises a mechanism enabling the thin tube to be moved out from the chamber into the tube.

Abstract: A kit and method for intrauterine insemination is provided. The steps of the method include self-monitoring of a menstrual cycle of a patient by said patient, making an abrasion on the endometrial lining of a uterus of the patient following menstruation by the patient, predicting timing of ovulation by using an ovulation monitoring system or inducing ovulation; preparing sperm for insemination during ovulation by the patient, guiding an intrauterine insemination catheter accompanied by a cervical shield into the patient, depositing a semen sample into the uterine cavity or cervical canal, removing the catheter from the body of the patient while using a holding tool to hold the cervical shield in place at the entrance to the uterine cavity, and leaving the cervical shield in place for a predetermined time period.

Abstract: Cell sorting methods that improve sorting efficiency and productivity by elevating sorting pressures and incorporate certain steps to help the cells better survive such elevated pressures. In the case of sperm, sorting the steps of standardizing sperm samples, staining sperm samples in a single step, calibrating a flow cytometer to place sperm in the leading edge of droplets, and changing a catch fluid distance may be incorporated individually, or in combination to help sperm better survive the sex sorting process.

Abstract: A conception aid for assisting in natural conception may include a platform configured for placement in a vaginal canal, wherein the platform comprises one or more capturing elements configured to collect semen. A method of aiding conception may include providing a conception aid device including one or more capturing elements, collecting semen with the one or more capturing elements wherein the one or more capturing elements is configured to contain the collected semen on the device, and positioning the device in a vaginal canal.

Abstract: Provided is a method for obtaining female germline stem cells from follicular aspirates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for use in low dose artificial insemination and to a process for artificial insemination of a female mammal using a dose of sperm originating from a male mammal of the same species that is significantly lower than necessary in the absence of the composition. The preferred female mammal is a sow (Sus scrofa), and preferably the composition is for use in artificial uterine insemination, and the process for artificial insemination preferably is uterine insemination.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device for the atraumatic transfer of a material or substance with a reproductive, therapeutic or diagnostic purpose into a female mammal, comprising a body assembly, an outer sheath suitable for being inserted as far as the start of one of the uterine horns, an inner sheath inside the outer sheath and capable of being extended into the uterine horn, and a piston inserted into the inner sheath order to push the material or substance up to the distal end of the inner sheath. The body assembly comprises a rod extending away from the outer sheath, and on which a shuttle assembly is slidingly mounted, comprising a primary shuttle, mounted sliding on said rod and to which the piston is attached, and a secondary shuttle, mounted sliding on said primary shuttle and to which the inner sheath is attached.

Abstract: New, highly efficient enhancers for AFPs have now been discovered in the form of co-enzymes, and active fragments and mimetics thereof. These enhancer molecules do not have TH activity themselves, but can enhance the TH activity of AFPs by at least about 2-11 times. These molecules are so far the most effective enhancers for AFPs, and are characterized by containing coenzymes or fragments or mimetic thereof.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for detecting estrus in subjects are provided. Devices include a housing configured for intravaginal/intrauterine deployment and retention and a sensor disposed in or on the housing, and are configured to use condition information sensed by the sensor to determine an estrus condition of the subject. Methods include deploying a device in the subject, sensing the condition information, and determining an estrus condition using the condition information. Systems include a device configured to communicate with a base station and/or with other implanted devices, which are located within a reception radius thereof, regarding the determined estrus condition.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for freezing an alcoholic mixture using liquid nitrogen. The systems may comprise a ferromagnetic capsule configured to receiving an amount of alcoholic mixture, a cap comprising at least one magnet for magnetically sealing the capsule, a wand comprising at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to the capsule or the cap, and a vessel containing a quantity of liquid nitrogen maintained at or below its boiling point. In use, the alcoholic mixture can be poured into the capsule, the capsule can be sealed using the cap, and the wand can be used to submerge the capsule and the cap in the liquid nitrogen for a time sufficient to freeze the alcoholic mixture.

Abstract: Arrays of nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods based on novel SNPs on genes of the bovine transforming growth factor-? (TGF-?) signaling pathway for improved bovine fertilization rate. The methods and compositions of the present invention are related to SNPs in the DNA-binding protein inhibitor 3 (ID3) gene, and in the bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) gene corresponding to position 2702 of SEQ ID NO: 2. Also disclosed are methods for determining viability of developing bovine embryos by measuring the expression level of one or more target genes in the TGF-signaling pathway, and selecting for implantation only embryos whose target gene expression level is not up-regulated.

Abstract: The present invention provides an artificial insemination apparatus and methods for use with livestock that maintains the sterility of the semen until it is deposited at an optimum location in the reproductive tract of the animal without the maneuvering or tissue injury problems associated with prior art devices. Embodiments of the present invention comprise a uniquely shaped opening that is provided at the tip of a sheath that is used with an artificial insemination gun, and a movable or deformable plug or diaphragm that fits into and covers this opening. The plug or diaphragm has a rounded (convex) exterior surface, and may be made of a rigid or rubberized material that completely covers the opening at the tip of the sheath, and seals it closed in a smooth, flush engagement to prevent contaminants from collecting upon the tip, or entering into the sheath during the trip through the reproductive tract of the animal.

Abstract: A method of embryo transfer (“ET”) that improves fertility rates by eliminating transferred air during the procedure is provided. Also provided is a method for hormonally enhancing the uterine wall of a patient either prior to or during the time of ET. Quantitative administration of transfer solutions is accomplished with a modified apparatus that provides for implantation of an embryo into the uterus of a patient. The apparatus comprises an outer sheath and an inner lumen arranged to be slidably disposed within the outer sheath. The inner lumen includes at least one visual marker situated on the exterior surface adjacent its distal end thereof.

Abstract: The sheath (30) comprises a tube (31) and an end piece (32) that comprises a foot (33) introduced into an end portion of the tube (31), and a head (34) arranged in the extension of the tube (31). The foot (33) comprises, on the outer surface (40) thereof, a plurality of annular ribs (41-44) facing the inner surface (45) of the tube (31). The head (34) comprises a shoulder (38) facing the section (39) of the tube (31), projecting over the root of the foot (33). The end piece (32) and the tube (31) are attached to the periphery of at least one of said annular ribs exclusively by intrinsic welding. The method comprises the step of carrying out a peripheral tightening of the outer surface (37) of the tube on a level with the ribs (41-44), and the step of applying a sonotrode to the outer surface (35-36) of the head (34).

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a catheter shaft includes the steps of forming an inner layer of a first polymeric material, forming a plait matrix layer including a second polymeric material about the inner layer, and forming an outer layer of a third polymeric material about the plait matrix layer. The plait matrix layer includes a braided wire mesh partially or fully embedded within the second polymeric material, which is different from at least one of the first polymeric material forming the inner layer and the third polymeric material forming the outer layer. The second polymeric material has a higher yield strain and/or a lower hardness than at least the first polymeric material, and preferably both the first and the third polymeric materials. The first polymeric material and the third polymeric material may be different or the same. The catheter shaft may be formed by stepwise extrusion, co-extrusion, and/or reflow processes.

Abstract: a sexual stimulation and insemination apparatus, comprises a shaft having a tip, a base, and an elongated cylindrical body extending therebetween; a disposable plastic transfer pipette having an open tip, liquid-holding-chamber, and a pipe extending therebetween; a tunnel formed inside the shaft extending from the tip to the base, wherein the tunnel is in a shape of the disposable plastic transfer pipette, and wherein the disposable plastic transfer pipette can be inserted into or removed out of the tunnel; a button, wherein the button is a depressed area formed on the elongated cylindrical body and is located relatively above the liquid-holding-chamber of the disposable plastic transfer pipette when the disposable plastic transfer pipette is inserted in the tunnel; and an O-ring groove formed circumferentially on elongated cylindrical body of the shaft next to the base of said shaft, wherein said O-ring groove is radially smaller than said elongated cylindrical body.

Abstract: An injector for injecting a fertilized ovum(ova) or a sperm(s) for artificial insemination into a uterine body, by which an injection pipe can be introduced smoothly into a uterus, is disclosed. An injector for a fertilized ovum(ova) or a sperm(s) of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a guide pipe for insertion into a uterine body, an injection pipe which is inserted into the guide pipe and has a length longer than the guide pipe, and a nozzle connected to a frontal end of the injection pipe, wherein the injection pipe comprises a flexible 1st pipe section constituting a frontal side of the injection pipe, and a 2nd pipe section being more rigid than the 1st pipe section and constituting a rear side of the injection pipe.

Abstract: Methods for purifying air with air purifiers are disclosed. Optionally, the methods provide purified air characterized by: a TVOC content of from less than 5 ppb to about 500 ppb; 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: A sperm diluent of the present invention contains a chelating agent such as EDTA and/or, EGTA, which forms a complex with a calcium ion, in a base diluent. Further, the sperm diluent contains an immunosuppressive factor such as a steroid hormone and/or, a cytokine, which suppresses migration of leukocytes. By diluting frozen sperm with this sperm diluent followed by performing artificial insemination, death of the sperm before fertilization and phagocytosis of the sperm and embryos by leukocytes in the uterus can be suppressed, allowing enhancement of the conception rate and the implantation rate.

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: A method of manufacturing a catheter shaft includes the steps of forming an inner layer of a first polymeric material, forming a plait matrix layer including a second polymeric material about the inner layer, and forming an outer layer of a third polymeric material about the plait matrix layer. The plait matrix layer includes a braided wire mesh partially or fully embedded within the second polymeric material, which is different from at least one of the first polymeric material forming the inner layer and the third polymeric material forming the outer layer. The second polymeric material has a higher yield strain and/or a lower hardness than at least the first polymeric material, and preferably both the first and the third polymeric materials. The first polymeric material and the third polymeric material may be different or the same. The catheter shaft may be formed by stepwise extrusion, co-extrusion, and/or reflow processes.

Abstract: A device for artificial insemination, wherein the device includes a dildo member having an internal channel for receiving a tubing connected to a pumping mechanism and associated pumping arm, wherein fluid may be drawn into the dildo member through the pumping mechanism and discharged through the internal tubing at a distal end.

Abstract: A composition and method is provided to modify sperm fertility and sex ratio of mammalian offspring. The composition includes an amount of a class of compounds of phenoxazine or phenothiazine, having the structure (see FIG. 1) and ionic derivatives thereof, wherein R1 is H, a lower alkyl group or N (R3)2, R2 is N, S, O, and R3 is H or a lower alkyl group. A second component of the composition is an amount of an electron transfer agent capable of oxidizing a reduced cofactor (NADPH or NADH). A third component of the composition is an amount of a hexose sugar and/or the phosphorylated esters of such. When mixed with living sperm prior to or at the time of insemination, the composition results in modified rates of conception and an alteration of birth sex ratio.

Abstract: The invention discloses a surgical technique and apparatus for minimally invasive replacement of a fractured femoral head in hip arthroscopy. The fractured femoral head is first removed from the patient, and an incision made on the patient on a lateral aspect of the operative thigh. A hole is then drilled into the cortex of the operative femur of the patient through the incision. The femoral neck and femoral canal of the operative femur are reamed by inserting a reamer through the drilled hole. A hip prosthesis is then inserted into the wound and injected with molding. The hip prosthesis includes a femoral component having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end inserted and anchored in the reamed femoral canal, and a femoral head component with smooth surface. The femoral head component contains a deflated balloon that, when inflated with molding, is similar to a neo-femoral head.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods of increasing the genetic progress of a line, breed or herd of swine through the use of sex-selected sperm cells in artificial insemination techniques. The invention also encompasses methods of artificially inseminating a swine via deep intrauterine catheter or via a laparoscopic procedure, which allow the use of reduced doses of sex-selected sperm cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a container bag (1) for containing semen for artificial insemination of animals, of the types which are formed by at least two sheets (2.1, 2.2) of sealed thermoplastic material, forming a tubular body (3) with an inner hollow (4) divided by means of a central constriction (5) into first and second contiguous enclosures (7.1, 7.2) communicated by means of a cannula (6) secured in said constriction (5), which bag comprises a closure plug (10) for closing said cannula (6) secured to the bottom (13) of the second enclosure (7.2) of the inner hollow (4), means for securing the cannula (6) to the central constriction (5), and means for securing the closure plug (10) to the bottom (13) of the second enclosure (7.2).

Abstract: Everting balloon systems and methods for using the same are disclosed herein. The systems can be configured to access and dilate body lumen and cavities. For example, the systems can be used to dilate the cervix and access the uterine cavity. The systems can also be used to occlude the cervix. The systems can also be used to occlude the urethra.

Abstract: A method of sorting sperm cells and a method of producing at least one sexed embryo. The method of sorting sperm cells includes the steps of establishing a sheath fluid environment including a citrate for stained sperm cells, establishing a stream including stained sperm cells in said sheath fluid environment, sensing a property of the stained sperm cells, and discriminating between stained sperm cells for a desired sex characteristic. The method of producing at least one sexed embryo includes the steps for sorting sperm cells in addition to fertilizing at least one egg with the sexed sperm to form at least one sexed embryo.

Abstract: An injector for injecting a fertilized ovum(ova) or a sperm(s) for artificial insemination into a uterine body, by which an injection pipe can be introduced smoothly into a uterus, is disclosed. An injector for a fertilized ovum(ova) or a sperm(s) of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a guide pipe for insertion into a uterine body, an injection pipe which is inserted into the guide pipe and has a length longer than the guide pipe, and a nozzle connected to a frontal end of the injection pipe, wherein the injection pipe comprises a flexible 1st pipe section constituting a frontal side of the injection pipe, and a 2nd pipe section being more rigid than the 1st pipe section and constituting a rear side of the injection pipe.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for drug delivery. The device may include a housing configured for intraluminal deployment into a human or animal subject and first and second reservoirs within the housing, each reservoir having an actuation end, an opposed release end, and a plug moveable from the actuation end toward the release end. First and second drug formulations may be contained in the first and second reservoirs, respectively. The device may also include one or more actuation systems configured to drive the first and second plugs so as to drive the first and second drug formulations from the first and second reservoirs. The housing may include a porous membrane sidewall in fluid communication with the release ends of the first and second reservoirs, the porous membrane sidewall being configured to distribute the first and second drug formulations driven from the first and second reservoirs.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for drug delivery. The device may include a housing configured for intralumenal deployment into a human or animal subject and first and second reservoirs within the housing, each reservoir having an actuation end, an opposed release end, and a plug moveable from the actuation end toward the release end. First and second drug formulations may be contained in the first and second reservoirs, respectively. The device may also include one or more actuation systems configured to drive the first and second plugs so as to drive the first and second drug formulations from the first and second reservoirs. The housing may include a porous membrane sidewall in fluid communication with the release ends of the first and second reservoirs, the porous membrane sidewall being configured to distribute the first and second drug formulations driven from the first and second reservoirs.

Abstract: A reproductive infusion device for collection of semen for in-home insemination. The device features a collection vessel having a collection cavity defined by a sidewall which communicates through an elongated member extending therefrom. The collection vessel removably engages coaxially with an injection component to transfer collected semen thereto. A plunger engageable with an axial cavity of the injection component is provided for vaginal deposit of collected semen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of and compositions comprising cytokines for, improving the success rate of embryo implantation and the success rate of pregnancy rates in females, by providing an immunopermissive uterine environment prior to insemination or implantation of embryos. The methods of the present invention are used to make the uterus more receptive or less hostile to, for example, transferred embryos, sperm or other allografted tissue.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for modifying fertility and/or spermatogenesis or spermiogenesis in a male mammalian subject involve administering to the subject or contacting the subject's testis cells, germ cells or sperm with a composition that modifies the activation, nucleic acid expression, protein expression, signaling or activity of one or more T1R3 receptors or an intermediate in the signaling pathways thereof in the subject's testis cells or germ cells. In another embodiment, the method further involves administering to the subject or contacting the subject's testis cells, germ cells or sperm with a composition that modifies the activation, nucleic acid expression, protein expression, signaling or activity of G-?-gustducin, or an intermediate in the signaling pathways thereof. Methods for screening a test molecule for its effect on spermatogenesis or spermiogenesis or fertility and compositions for modifying spermatogenesis or spermiogenesis or fertility in a mammalian subject, e.g.

Abstract: Compositions and methods useful for processing animal semen for use in assisted reproduction. A composition, or colloid formulation, for separation of spermatozoa from a semen sample, the composition including at least one salt of an alkali metal and/or an alkaline earth metal, EDTA, a zwitterion buffer, silane-coated silica particles and water, the composition having a pH of 7.0-7.35 and an osmolarity of 300-345 mOsm. A method for preparing spermatozoa from a semen sample from a non-human animal by separating the spermatozoa from other semen constituents by centrifugation through a single layer of the composition, or colloid formulation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein include embodiments related to delivery of molecular molecules by a sperm cell to an egg cell for expression, including transient expression, in a fertilized progeny. Further embodiments relate to computerized systems for assisting in the disclosed methods.

Abstract: This invention concerns a device for gynaecological transfer or insemination with shape memory comprising a catheter comprising a polymer tube open at its ends, characterised in that this tube is comprised of a medium-density polymer associated with mineral filler. Such a device presents an adaptable diameter and a structure not enlarged by the presence of a metallic mesh without imposing fastidious handling such as can be the case of a flexible introducer catheter associated with a metallic rod for positioning.

Abstract: Improved methods of culturing embryos in media having amounts of lactate that have not previously been recognized as beneficial for embryo development. Also, compositions, devices and kits related to the same.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new method of gene integration in cells comprising the steps of: preparation of a suspension of poly nucleotide fragments comprising the desired gene in a hypotonic solution; administration of said suspension to cells or tissues; and maintenance of the cells or tissues in vitro or in its normal physiological condition. The invention also relates to a method of generating transgenic animal.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new and improved sperm stimulating additive comprising a certain amount of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi). Addition of PPi in the media for human/animal in vitro fertilization (IVF) improves fertilization rate; addition of PPi in the semen extender for farm animal artificial insemination (AI) may improve pregnancy rates; furthermore, mamalian oocytes matured in vitro in a medium including PPi attain improved fertilization and developmental potential, while embryos cultured in medium supplemented with PPi have improved development to blastocyst.

Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphic sites of the bovine HSP genes are associated with improved fertilization rate and/or improved embryo survival rate in cattle. Nucleic acid molecules, kits, methods of genotyping and marker assisted bovine breeding methods based on these SNPs are disclosed.

Abstract: Generally, polymeric members and laser marking methods for producing visible marks on polymeric members, such as on thin and/or curved surfaces. The laser marking methods can include methods of laser marking straws with the step of matching laser source properties to the properties of straws being marked or with the step of laser marking straws having photochromic dyes.