Transcriptome analysis reveals that long noncoding RNAs contribute to developmental differences between medium-sized ovarian follicles of Meishan and Duroc sows.

Ovulation rate is an extremely important factor affecting litter size in sows. It differs greatly among pig breeds with different genetic backgrounds. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can regulate follicle development, granulosa cell growth, and hormone secretion, which in turn can affect sow litter size.

Identification of circular RNAs in the ovarian follicles of Meishan and Duroc sows during the follicular phase.

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a newly discovered class of endogenous non-coding RNAs that play an important role in growth and development by regulating gene expression and participating in a variety of biological processes. However, the role of circRNAs in porcine follicles remains unclear. Therefore, this study examined middle-sized ovarian follicles obtained from Meishan and Duroc sows at day 4 of the follicular phase.

Biomechanical Rationale for the Development of Atlantoaxial Instability and Basilar Invagination in Patients with Occipitalization of the Atlas: A Finite Element Analysis.

Objective: Occipitalization of the atlas (OA) often is associated with atlantoaxial dislocation and basilar invagination. The purpose of this study is to determine the biomechanical difference between normal and OA conditions in the craniovertebral junction and to further explore the rationale for development of atlantoaxial dislocation and basilar invagination using the finite element model (FEM).

Methods: A ligamentous, nonlinear, sliding-contact, 3-dimensional FEM of the occipitoatlantoaxial complex was generated.

Systematic Analysis of Long Non-Coding RNAs and mRNAs in the Ovaries of Duroc Pigs During Different Follicular Stages Using RNA Sequencing.

The dynamic process involving the selection and maturation of follicles is regulated and controlled by a highly synchronized and exquisitely timed cascade of gene expression. Studies have shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is essential for the normal maintenance of animal reproductive function and has an important regulatory function in ovarian development and hormone secretion. In this study, a total of 2076 lncRNAs (1362 known lncRNAs and 714 new lncRNAs) and 25,491 mRNAs were identified in libraries constructed from Duroc ovaries on days 0, 2 and 4 of follicle development.

Use of rapid prototyping drill template for the expansive open door laminoplasty: A cadaveric study.

Objective: Trough preparation is a technically demanding yet critical procedure for successful expansive open door laminoplasty (EOLP), requiring both proper position and appropriate bone removal. We aimed to use the specific rapid prototyping drill template to achieve such requirement.

Methods: The 3D model of the cadaveric cervical spine was reconstructed using the Mimics 17.