As a paddy—upland rotation system, tobacco—rice rotation hastypical characteristics in the formation and evolution of soil fertility duringthe tobacco season with dry farming and rice season with water cultivation.T...As a paddy—upland rotation system, tobacco—rice rotation hastypical characteristics in the formation and evolution of soil fertility duringthe tobacco season with dry farming and rice season with water cultivation.To scientifically unveil the soil fertility formation process and grade thesoil fertility in tobacco—rice rotation areas, we collected 372 soil samplesfrom 11 tobacco stations (Haotang, Aoquan, Chengjiao, Renyi, Fangyuan,Anping, Huangsha, Taiping, Tushi, Dashiqiao, and Baimangying) in thetypical tobacco—rice rotation areas of Chenzhou and Yongzhou in SouthernHunan. The physical, chemical, and biological indicators of the soil sampleswere measured, and the tobacco and rice yields of each tobacco stationwere investigated. Machine learning was employed to screen the keyindicators influencing the tobacco yield, and a comprehensive numericalanalysis method combining principal component analysis and discriminantanalysis were adopted to cluster the sampling points, analyze their fertilityformation processes, and grade the soil fertility. The results showed thatclay content, available phosphorus, plow layer depth, slit-to-clay ratio, totalnitrogen, basal respiration, and organic carbon were identified as seven keyindicators influencing the tobacco yield. The results of the comprehensivenumerical analysis predicted two main processes involved in the formationof soil fertility in tobacco—rice rotation areas. One was the soil maturationprocess related to soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, and the other was theprocess of changes in soil physical properties such as clay content and slitto-clay ratio. According to the established soil fertility grading methodfor tobacco—rice rotation areas, the soil fertility of 11 tobacco stationswas graded. The results showed that the soil fertility was high in Haotang,Aoquan, Renyi, and Dashiqiao, medium in Huangsha and Tushi, and low inAnping, Baimangying, and Taiping. The tobacco and rice yields confirmedthat this grading standard can be effectively applied to the grading of soilfertility in the tobacco—rice rotation areas in Southern Hunan and canprovide a scientific basis for soil management in tobacco—rice rotation.展开更多
Objective Selective estrogen receptor modulators(SERMs)have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of hypogonadism in males and male factor infertility.Two SERMs,clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen,are now prescribed for...Objective Selective estrogen receptor modulators(SERMs)have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of hypogonadism in males and male factor infertility.Two SERMs,clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen,are now prescribed for off-label use to treat both conditions in males.However,existing literature compares mixed protocols with active management.We aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of clomiphene and tamoxifen versus placebo on natural pregnancy rates.Methods We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of electronic databases:MEDLINE,PubMed/PMC,EMBASE,CINAHL,Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL),Scopus,Google Scholar,and Web of Science.Articles satisfying all selection criteria were analyzed.The primary outcome was the incidence of pregnancy after receiving the treatment.Secondary outcomes included serum follicle-stimulating hormone,luteinizing hormone,and testosterone levels,and sperm count and motility.We calculated the pooled odds ratio,risk ratio,and risk difference to ascertain possible alterations in the direction of the pooled effect size.Results Ten randomized controlled trials were ultimately included and underwent data extraction.Clomiphene citrate and placebo groups had similar pregnancy rates(10.4%and 7.1%,respectively;odds ratio 1.30[95%confidence interval 0.27–6.17];p=0.74).No meta-analysis could be calculated for pregnancy rates in tamoxifen versus placebo groups.Heterogeneity among the studies of both SERMs ranged from low to high.Conclusion Although clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen are often used off-label for the treatment of male infertility secondary to hypogonadism,studies of SERMs in the treatment of idiopathic male factor infertility are limited and heterogenous,preventing this meta-analysis from investigating the efficacy of SERMs on male infertility.The effect of clomiphene citrate or tamoxifen on the pregnancy rate remains uncertain.展开更多
Organic material combined with inorganic fertilizer has been shown to greatly improve crop yield and maintain soil fertility globally. However, it remains unclear if crop yield and soil fertility can be sustained in t...Organic material combined with inorganic fertilizer has been shown to greatly improve crop yield and maintain soil fertility globally. However, it remains unclear if crop yield and soil fertility can be sustained in the long term under the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers. Three long-term field trials were conducted to investigate the effects of organic amendments on the grain sustainable yield index(SYI), soil fertility index(SFI)and nutrient balance in maize–wheat cropping systems of central and southern China during 1991–2019. Five treatments were included in the trials: 1) no fertilization(control);2) balanced mineral fertilization(NPK);3) NPK plus manure(NPKM);4) high dose of NPK plus manure(1.5NPKM);and 5) NPK plus crop straw(NPKS). Over time, the grain yields of wheat and maize showed an increasing trend in all four fertilization treatments at the Yangling(YL) and Zhengzhou(ZZ) locations, while they declined at Qiyang(QY). The grain yield in the NPKM and 1.5NPKM treatments gradually exceeded that of the NPK and NPKS treatments at the QY site. The largest SYI was recorded in the NPKM treatment across the three sites, suggesting that inorganic fertilizer combined with manure can effectively improve crop yield sustainability. Higher SYI values were recorded at the YL and ZZ sites than at the QY site, possibly because the soil was more acid at QY. The key factors affecting grain yield were soil available phosphorus(AP) and available potassium(AK) at the YL and ZZ sites, and pH and AP at the QY site.All fertilization treatments resulted in soil N and P surpluses at the three sites, but soil K surpluses were recorded only at the QY site. The SFI was greater in the 1.5NPKM, NPKM and NPKS treatments than in the NPK treatment by 13.3–40.0 and 16.4–63.6% at the YL and ZZ sites, respectively, and was significantly higher in the NPKM and 1.5NPKM treatments than in the NPK and NPKS treatments at the QY site. A significant, positive linear relationship was found between SFI and crop yield, and SYI and nutrient balance, indicating that grain yield and its sustainability significantly increased with increasing soil fertility. The apparent N, P and K balances positively affected SFI.This study suggests that the appropriate amount of manure mixed with mineral NPK fertilizer is beneficial to the development of sustainable agriculture, which effectively increases the crop yield and yield sustainability by improving soil fertility.展开更多
Fertility preservation and pregnancymanagement are critical considerations for patients undergoing organtransplantation.Innovations in assisted reproductive technologies,hormonalmodulation,and personalized medicine ha...Fertility preservation and pregnancymanagement are critical considerations for patients undergoing organtransplantation.Innovations in assisted reproductive technologies,hormonalmodulation,and personalized medicine have expanded options for these patients,who face unique challenges due to immunosuppressive therapy and organ functionconcerns.This mini-review explores advancements in cryopreservationtechniques,pre-conception counseling,and multidisciplinary strategies forsafe pregnancies post-transplantation.Emphasis is placed on balancing maternalhealth,graft function,and fetal outcomes.The integration of reproductive andtransplant medicine is paving the way for improved quality of life andreproductive autonomy for this patient population.展开更多
The symbiotic relationships between trees and different mycorrhizal fungi affect the biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships within forest communities,particularly across different strata from the understorey...The symbiotic relationships between trees and different mycorrhizal fungi affect the biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships within forest communities,particularly across different strata from the understorey to the overstorey.However,current research on this relationship has not yet reached a definitive conclusion.In this study,we used regression analyses and structural equation modelling based on a 9-ha mixed broadleaved-Korean pine(Pinus koraiensis)forest plot to explore the effects of different types of mycorrhizal fungi(arbuscular mycorrhizal(AM)and ectomycorrhizal(EM)fungi)on the relationship between tree species diversity and productivity.The study found that the dominance and productivity of AM species increased in the understorey with increasing soil nutrients,whereas the productivity of EM species declined despite increasing diversity.In the overstorey,the productivity of AM species continued to increase with increasing soil nutrients,while that of EM species decreased due to increased competition.As for diversity-productivity relationships(DPRs),in the understorey,both AM and EM tree species demonstrated a positive DPR,suggesting the presence of the niche complementarity effect.In the overstorey,AM species continue to exhibit positive DPR due to their competitive advantage in nutrient-rich environments.In contrast,EM species exhibit negative DPR due to increased competition or less efficient resource use.Additionally,slope influenced forest productivity indirectly by altering the accumulation and distribution of soil nutrients,thereby affecting species distribution and growth conditions.This indirect effect highlights the potential negative impact of slope on soil nutrients within forest ecosystems,as well as its influence on the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions.The study reveals how AM and EM trees influence forest productivity through distinct adaptability and competitive strategies across different forest strata,with a particular emphasis on the strata-dependent effects of mycorrhizal association on DPRs.This finding offers a new perspective on how mycorrhizal types modulate the complex relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions across various strata in temperate forests.展开更多
Artificial cyanobacteria crusts are formed by inoculating soil with cyanobacteria.These crusts help prevent soil erosion and restore soil functionality in degraded croplands.However,how fast the artificial cyanobacter...Artificial cyanobacteria crusts are formed by inoculating soil with cyanobacteria.These crusts help prevent soil erosion and restore soil functionality in degraded croplands.However,how fast the artificial cyanobacteria crusts can be formed is a key issue before their practical application.In addition,the effects of artificial cyanobacteria crusts on soil nutrients and plant growth are not fully explored.This study analyzed the effect of inoculation of cyanobacteria from local biological soil crusts on soil nutrients and Pak-choi(Brassica campestris L.ssp.Chinensis Makino var.communis Tsen et Lee;Chinese cabbage)growth in a cropland,northern China through field experiments by comparing with no fertilizer.The results showed that artificial cyanobacteria crusts were formed on the 18th d after inoculation with a coverage of 56.13%,a thickness of 3.74 mm,and biomass of 22.21μg chla/cm^(2).Artificial cyanobacteria crusts significantly improved the soil organic matter(SOM),NO_(3)^(-)-N,total nitrogen(TN)contents,and the activities of sucrase,alkaline phosphatase,urease,and catalase enzymes of plants on the 50th d after inoculation.Additionally,artificial cyanobacteria crusts led to an increase in plant biomass,improved root morphology,and raised the phosphorus and potassium contents in the plants.Furthermore,the biomass of plant grown with artificial cyanobacteria crusts was comparable with that of grown with chemical fertilizer.The study suggested that,considering plant biomass and soil nutrients,it is feasible to prevent wind erosion in the cropland of arid and semi-arid areas by inoculating cyanobacteria crusts.This study provides new perspectives for the sustainable development and environmental management of cropland in arid and semi-arid areas.展开更多
Cyclosporin A fermentation residue(CFR)is a type of organic waste generated during the production of cyclosporin A,which are abundant in nutrients including organic matter,phosphorus,nitrogen and potassium.Inappropria...Cyclosporin A fermentation residue(CFR)is a type of organic waste generated during the production of cyclosporin A,which are abundant in nutrients including organic matter,phosphorus,nitrogen and potassium.Inappropriate handling of CFR not only waste valuable bioresources,but may also lead to the cyclosporin A and associated resistance genes into the natural environment,posing a significant threat to ecological system and human health.Land application was an effective way to resource recovery of CFR after aerobic composting(CAC).This study investigated the impact of CAC on soil fertility and environmental safety.The results indicated that CAC could improve soil nutrient contents and enhance enzyme activities.CAC altered the diversity and community composition of soil bacteria,resulting in an increase in the abundance of relevant bacteria beneficial for organic matter decomposition and cyclosporin A degradation.The introduced cyclosporin A(71.69μg/kg)completely degraded within 20 days due to soil biodegradation.The significantly increased abundance of intIl,mdr3,pgp,TSR and pmra in the soil cultivation early stage were restored to the soil background level within 90 days,indicating a reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance.The results demonstrated that reasonable land application of CAC could improve soil fertility without antimicrobial resistance risk,which is helpful for evaluating the resource utilization value and environmental risks of antibiotic fermentation residue after aerobic composting.展开更多
Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine ...Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine Bangladesh,are generally low in organic matter status and deficient in necessary nutrient elements for crop production.Addressing this challenge,the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of various organic nutrient sources with inorganic fertilizers on crop yields,nutrient uptake,and soil fertility in farm(L1)and char land(L2)of Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh,Bangladesh from 2022(Y1)to 2023(Y2).For each location,eight treatments viz.T1(Control),T2[100%recommended fertilizer dose(RFD)],T3(75%RFD),T4(75%N from RFD 25%N from cow dung),T5(75%+N from RFD 25%N from poultry manure),T6(75%N from RFD 25%N from vermicompost),T7(75%N from++RFD 25%N from household compost)and T8(75%N from RFD 25%N from rice straw compost)were arranged in++a randomized complete block design with three replications using Wheat–Mungbean–T.Aman rice cropping pattern where three way interaction was considered for results.Treatment T5 performed the best in both years in both locations as it enhanced the yield components(p 0.05)and caused yield increment over control.The yield improvement in<Char land soils was higher than that in farm soils.For all three crops,treatment T5 consistently augmented the uptake of nitrogen,phosphorus,potassium,and sulphur by different parts of the crops and improved soil fertility properties such as organic matter status,cation exchange capacity,total nitrogen,available phosphorus,and sulphur as well as exchangeable potassium in both locations in both years.Cost and return analysis of different treatments for the whole cropping system showed that the highest marginal benefit-cost ratio(16.35 and 15.07)and gross return(about Tk 768,595/ha and 728,341/ha)were obtained from the T5 treatment in farm soils and Char land soils,respectively.Followed by poultry manure,vermicompost performed well in addition to mineral fertilizers for improving crop yield and soil fertility but its economic efficiency was less due to high input cost.These findings may be useful to the smallholder farmers in char areas,who could benefit from increased productivity,reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers,and improved soil health,contributing to the long-term sustainability of char land agriculture.展开更多
Objective The effects of prolonged exposure to persistently elevated atmospheric pollutants,commonly termed air pollution waves,on fertility intentions remain inadequately understood.This study aims to investigate the...Objective The effects of prolonged exposure to persistently elevated atmospheric pollutants,commonly termed air pollution waves,on fertility intentions remain inadequately understood.This study aims to investigate the association between particulate matter(PM)exposure and fertility intentions.Methods In this nationwide cross-sectional study,we analyzed data from 10,747 participants(5496 females and 5251 males).PM waves were defined as periods lasting 3‒6 consecutive days during which the daily average concentrations exceeded China’s Ambient Air Quality Standards Grade II thresholds(PM2.5>75μg/m3 and PM10>150μg/m3).We employed multivariate logistic regression models to assess the association between exposure to PM waves and fertility intentions.Results Significant inverse associations were detected between exposure to PM2.5 wave events(characterized by concentrations exceeding 75μg/m3 for durations of 4‒6 days,P<0.05)and PM10 wave events(defined as concentrations exceeding 150μg/m3 for 6 consecutive days,P<0.05)and fertility intentions among females.In contrast,neither the PM2.5 wave nor the PM10 wave events demonstrated statistically significant correlations with fertility intentions in males(P>0.05 for all comparisons).The potentially susceptible subgroup was identified as females aged 20–30 years.Conclusions Our results provide the first evidence that PM2.5 and PM10 waves are associated with a reduction in female fertility intentions,offering critical insights for the development of public health policies and strategies aimed at individual protection.展开更多
The ability of natural conception decreases with age,leading many advanced-age women with fertility desire begin to attempt in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET)technique nowadays.Traditional Chinese medi...The ability of natural conception decreases with age,leading many advanced-age women with fertility desire begin to attempt in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET)technique nowadays.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)believes that human body undergoes periodic changes corresponding to the natural rhythms.Women exhibit distinct physiological lunar rhythms of the thoroughfare vessel and the conception vessel,as well as pathological rhythms during the menstrual cycle and IVF-ET cycle.Based on the theory of TCM temporal rhythm,this paper discusses the pathogenesis characteristics of infertility in advanced-age women at different stages.It believes that acupuncture intervention should comply with the following ideas:determining main acupoints based on disease differentiation,with a preference for the acupoints on the thoroughfare vessel,the conception vessel,spleen meridian and kidney meridian,as well as the back-shu points of the liver,spleen and kidney;determining the supplementary acupoints based on syndrome differentiation and symptoms;determining the supplementary acupoints based on time differentiation of lunar rhythm of the thoroughfare vessel and the conception vessel,and integrating both reinforcing and reducing techniques.During the process of intervention,the physical and mental states were balanced simultaneously.展开更多
Selecting the embryo with the highest implantation potential is a top priority in in-vitro fertilization(IVF)centers.Few studies have explored the relationship between day 5 blastocyst morphokinetics and implantation ...Selecting the embryo with the highest implantation potential is a top priority in in-vitro fertilization(IVF)centers.Few studies have explored the relationship between day 5 blastocyst morphokinetics and implantation outcomes[1].Despite numerous time-lapse studies,the findings often conflict due to differences in patient demographics,lab conditions,and protocols,such as oxygen concentration[2].Thus,there is ongoing debate regarding which parameters are most predictive of implantation.展开更多
Spermatozoa are recognized as foreign cells by both male and female immune systems,leading to the production of antisperm antibodies(ASAs)when sperm are exposed to immune system due to a breach in the mucosal barrier....Spermatozoa are recognized as foreign cells by both male and female immune systems,leading to the production of antisperm antibodies(ASAs)when sperm are exposed to immune system due to a breach in the mucosal barrier.ASAs can be found in both sexes,though concentrations vary by individual and sex.This review examines ASAs production,their specific binding locations on sperm,and how ASAs may impair key sperm functions,including motility,viability,acrosome reaction,and capacitation.While ASAs are known to potentially interfere with sperm quality and sperm binding to zona pellucida in both humans and livestock,their impact on fertility remains debated,as ASAs are also detected in a significant number of fertile individuals.Furthermore,the practical relevance of ASAs screening in fertility assessment lacks consensus,with some findings suggesting that ASAs might even aid fertilization under certain conditions.By compiling the information on ASAs and their effects on semen quality and fertility,this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of ASAs in infertility.展开更多
Tomato reproductive success and yield are particularly vulnerable to the negative effect of heat stress leading to stigma exsertion(protrusion)and lower pollen viability,both interfering with fertilization.Thus,unders...Tomato reproductive success and yield are particularly vulnerable to the negative effect of heat stress leading to stigma exsertion(protrusion)and lower pollen viability,both interfering with fertilization.Thus,understanding the regulation of these two traits in tomato is crucial for the yield and quality of the crop.Here,we found that knocking out the tomato MADS-domain transcription factor FRUITFULL2(FUL2)function leads to a higher incidence of parthenocarpy in tomato.This phenotype was primarily due to impeded selfpollination as a consequence of the higher frequency of stigma exsertion and lower fertilization rates due to reduced pollen quality.Stigma exsertion in ful2 mutants,in contrast to heat stress-induced exsertion,was caused by style elongation,particularly in the younger flowers of a truss.Interestingly,Quantitative Trait Loci for style elongation,stigma exsertion,and pollen viability map close to the position of FUL2 on chromosome 3,making it a candidate gene underlying these QTLs.At the molecular level,ful2 mutant styles have higher expression of Style2.1 and SE3.1,which are known as positive regulators of style length.In addition,after reducing the impact of style exsertion and low pollen quality by manual pollination with wild-type pollen,ful2 mutants exhibited reduced fruit size independent of seed number.This study reveals the contributions of flower number,style length,and pollen quality,as affected by FUL2,to tomato fertility and fruit size.展开更多
Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNA...Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNAc) has been reported to be negatively linked to sperm function and fertility. Yet, the association between mtDNAc and sperm function in livestock remains unexplored. For this reason, this study aimed to shed some light on the link between mtDNAc and sperm function and fertilising potential in pigs. A qPCR method for mtDNAc quantification was optimised for pig sperm, and the association of this parameter with sperm motility, kinematics, mitochondrial activity, and fertility was subsequently interrogated.Results First, the q PCR method was found to be sensitive and efficient for mtDNAc quantification in pig sperm. By using this technique, mtDNAc was observed to be associated to sperm motility, mitochondrial activity and in vivo, but not in vitro, fertility outcomes. Specifically, sperm with low mtDNAc were seen to exhibit greater motility but decreased mitochondrial activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species. Interestingly, samples with lower mtD-NAc showed higher conception and farrowing rates, but similar in vitro fertilisation rates and embryo development, when compared to those with greater mtDNAc.Conclusions These findings enrich our comprehension of the association of mtDNAc with sperm biology, and lay the foundation for future research into employing this parameter as a molecular predictor for sperm function and fer-tility in livestock.展开更多
Crop yield depends on biomass,which is primarily associated with photosynthesis.We previously demonstrated that two photorespiratory bypasses,i.e.,GOC(glycolate oxidase+oxalate oxidase+catalase)and GCGT(glycolate oxid...Crop yield depends on biomass,which is primarily associated with photosynthesis.We previously demonstrated that two photorespiratory bypasses,i.e.,GOC(glycolate oxidase+oxalate oxidase+catalase)and GCGT(glycolate oxidase+catalase+glyoxylate carboligase+tartronic semialdehyde reductase),significantly increased photosynthesis,biomass,and grain yield,but decreased seed-setting rates in rice.This study explored the underlying mechanism of how elevated photosynthetic efficiency impacted the seed-setting.First,pollen germination assessed in vivo and in vitro,revealed a reduced germination rate in GCGT rice.Subsequent analysis found that photosynthates highly accumulated in the leaves and stems;sucrose and soluble sugar levels were increased but the starch level was reduced in the anthers.Uridine diphosphate glucose(UDP-Glc)was increased but uridine diphosphate galactose(UDP-Gal)was unaltered,thus causing an imbalance in the UDP-Glc/UDP-Gal ratio in GCGT anthers.Most anthers in GCGT plants had two locules in contrast to four in the wild-type(WT).Pollen tapetum was developmentally abnormal,and genes related to sucrose synthesis,transport,and tapetal programmed cell death(PCD)were upregulated,whereas those involved in starch synthesis and conversion were downregulated in GCGT anthers.Taken together,our results demonstrated that an increase in sugar content was the primary factor causing reduced seed-setting rates in high photosynthetic efficiency rice,during which metabolic disorder of sugars and UDP sugar imbalance in anthers lead to impaired pollen fertility.展开更多
Synthetic nitrogen(N)fertilizer has made a great contribution to the improvement of soil fertility and productivity,but excessive application of synthetic N fertilizer may cause agroecosystem risks,such as soil acidif...Synthetic nitrogen(N)fertilizer has made a great contribution to the improvement of soil fertility and productivity,but excessive application of synthetic N fertilizer may cause agroecosystem risks,such as soil acidification,groundwater contamination and biodiversity reduction.Meanwhile,organic substitution has received increasing attention for its ecologically and environmentally friendly and productivity benefits.However,the linkages between manure substitution,crop yield and the underlying microbial mechanisms remain uncertain.To bridge this gap,a three-year field experiment was conducted with five fertilization regimes:i)Control,non-fertilization;CF,conventional synthetic fertilizer application;CF_(1/2)M_(1/2),1/2 N input via synthetic fertilizer and 1/2 N input via manure;CF_(1/4)M_(3/4),1/4 N input synthetic fertilizer and 3/4 N input via manure;M,manure application.All fertilization treatments were designed to have equal N input.Our results showed that all manure substituted treatments achieved high soil fertility indexes(SFI)and productivities by increasing the soil organic carbon(SOC),total N(TN)and available phosphorus(AP)concentrations,and by altering the bacterial community diversity and composition compared with CF.SOC,AP,and the soil C:N ratio were mainly responsible for microbial community variations.The co-occurrence network revealed that SOC and AP had strong positive associations with Rhodospirillales and Burkholderiales,while TN and C:N ratio had positive and negative associations with Micromonosporaceae,respectively.These specific taxa are implicated in soil macroelement turnover.Random Forest analysis predicted that both biotic(bacterial composition and Micromonosporaceae)and abiotic(AP,SOC,SFI,and TN)factors had significant effects on crop yield.The present work strengthens our understanding of the effects of manure substitution on crop yield and provides theoretical support for optimizing fertilization strategies.展开更多
Necrozoospermia is a poorly documented condition with a low incidence,and its definition and clinical significance are unclear.Herein,we provide a reference range for necrozoospermia and discuss its possible etiology ...Necrozoospermia is a poorly documented condition with a low incidence,and its definition and clinical significance are unclear.Herein,we provide a reference range for necrozoospermia and discuss its possible etiology and impact on male fertility and assisted reproductive outcomes.We extracted relevant information from 650 Chinese male partners of infertile couples and statistically analyzed sperm vitality.Necrozoospermia was present in 3.4%(22/650)of our study population,and the lower cut-off value for sperm vitality was 75.3%.We compared two methods for assessing sperm vitality(eosin-nigrosin head staining and hypo-osmotic swelling test[HOST]),for which the percentage in the eosin-nigrosin group(mean±standard deviation[s.d.]:77.5%±10.5%)was significantly higher than that in the HOST group(mean±s.d.:58.1%±6.7%[5-10 min after incubation]and 55.6%±8.2%[25-30 min after incubation];both P<0.001).The incidence of necrozoospermia increased with age(odds ratio[OR]=1.116,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.048-1.189,P=0.001),while the percentage of normal sperm morphology and DNA fragmentation index(DFI)were significantly associated with necrozoospermia,with ORs of 0.691(95%CI:0.511-0.935,P=0.017)and 1.281(95%CI:1.180-1.390,P<0.001),respectively.In the following 6 months,we recruited 166 patients in the nonnecrozoospermia group and 87 patients in the necrozoospermia group to compare intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)and pregnancy outcomes between the two groups.The necrozoospermia group had a significantly lower normal fertilization rate(74.7%vs 78.2%,P=0.041;OR=0.822;95%CI:0.682-0.992)than that in the nonnecrozoospermia group.This study presents substantial information on necrozoospermia to establish comprehensive and applicable reference values for sperm vitality for spontaneous conception and artificially assisted reproductive management.展开更多
Objective:To explore the impact of Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract on fertility parameters in streptozotocin(STZ)-induced male rats.Methods:Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four different grou...Objective:To explore the impact of Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract on fertility parameters in streptozotocin(STZ)-induced male rats.Methods:Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four different groups.All groups except a normal control group were induced with 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin(STZ)intravenously to induce diabetes.A positive control group was treated with an antidiabetic drug,metformin(500 mg/kg)whereas a negative control group remained untreated throughout the experiment.Meanwhile,another diabetic rat group received treatment with 400 mg/kg of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract.Rats in the treatment group were administered Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract daily through forcefeeding via oral gavage for a 21-day period.Assessments included the sperm quality(count,motility and morphology),histology of the testes,serum testosterone and fasting blood glucose(FBG)level.Results:The FBG level of the Ficus carica-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease compared to the negative control group(P<0.05).Sperm quality analysis also indicated that the aqueous Ficus carica extract had significant positive effects on sperm count and motility(P<0.05).The histology of the testes in Ficus caricatreated rats revealed an improved cell arrangement in the germinal cell layer.Furthermore,serum testosterone level showed an increment in the Ficus carica treatment group in comparison to the negative control group.Conclusions:Our findings provide compelling evidence for the profertility and anti-hyperglycemic properties of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract in diabetic-induced male rats.展开更多
The two bay scallop subspecies,Argopecten irradians irradians(NN)and A.i.concentricus(SS),are fast growing and major cultured bivalves in China.However,their relatively small sizes and decreasing production traits cau...The two bay scallop subspecies,Argopecten irradians irradians(NN)and A.i.concentricus(SS),are fast growing and major cultured bivalves in China.However,their relatively small sizes and decreasing production traits caused by long-term inbreeding have been major concerns to the industry in the last two decades.Hybridization between the two bay scallop subspecies may provide a new approach to breed a new variety with superior production traits for the industry.For this end,in this study,we hybridized the two bay scallop subspecies in order to obtain a new strain that incorporates the genes of both subspecies.No significant difference was found in fertilization rate,hatching rate and metamorphosis rate between the purebred and crossbred cohorts(NN♀×SS♂,denoted as NS;SS♀×NN♂,denoted as SN).Both mating strategy(intra-vs.inter-population crosses)and egg origin had significant effects on growth and survival at the larval stage.Heterosis was observed in the crossbred and was more pronounced in older stages.Genetic diversity of the reciprocal hybrids,especially that of SN,was increased compared with the purebred cohorts.Almost all hybrids were completely fertile and able to reproduce by selffertilization or by backcrossing with either parent.Apparently,male sterile individuals whose gonads were fully occupied by the ovary part at mature stage were found in the hybrids for the first time.The hybrids,especially SN,may provide precious germplasm resources for the production of ternary hybrids with the Peruvian scallop,A.purpuratus.展开更多
Male germ cells employ specific metabolic pathways throughout their developmental stages.In a previous study,we discovered heightened expression of pyruvate kinase M(PKM),a pivotal glycolytic enzyme,in spermatogonia a...Male germ cells employ specific metabolic pathways throughout their developmental stages.In a previous study,we discovered heightened expression of pyruvate kinase M(PKM),a pivotal glycolytic enzyme,in spermatogonia and spermatids.To gain deeper insights into PKM's roles in spermatogenesis,sperm function,and male fertility,we engineered a conditional-knockout mouse model(Pkm-vkO mice)to selectively disrupt the Pkm gene within germ cells.Despite maintaining regular testicular histology and sperm morphology,the male Pkm-vko mice were infertility,characterized by significant impairments in sperm motility and adenosine triphosphate(ATP)generation.In addition,Pkm-null spermatozoa exhibited similar deficits in protein tyrosine phosphorylation linked to capacitation,as well as compromised performance in in vitro fertilization experiments.To conclude,PKM's presence is not obligatory for the entirety of spermatogenesis in male germ cells;however,it emerges as a critical factor influencing sperm motility and overall male fertility.展开更多
文摘As a paddy—upland rotation system, tobacco—rice rotation hastypical characteristics in the formation and evolution of soil fertility duringthe tobacco season with dry farming and rice season with water cultivation.To scientifically unveil the soil fertility formation process and grade thesoil fertility in tobacco—rice rotation areas, we collected 372 soil samplesfrom 11 tobacco stations (Haotang, Aoquan, Chengjiao, Renyi, Fangyuan,Anping, Huangsha, Taiping, Tushi, Dashiqiao, and Baimangying) in thetypical tobacco—rice rotation areas of Chenzhou and Yongzhou in SouthernHunan. The physical, chemical, and biological indicators of the soil sampleswere measured, and the tobacco and rice yields of each tobacco stationwere investigated. Machine learning was employed to screen the keyindicators influencing the tobacco yield, and a comprehensive numericalanalysis method combining principal component analysis and discriminantanalysis were adopted to cluster the sampling points, analyze their fertilityformation processes, and grade the soil fertility. The results showed thatclay content, available phosphorus, plow layer depth, slit-to-clay ratio, totalnitrogen, basal respiration, and organic carbon were identified as seven keyindicators influencing the tobacco yield. The results of the comprehensivenumerical analysis predicted two main processes involved in the formationof soil fertility in tobacco—rice rotation areas. One was the soil maturationprocess related to soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, and the other was theprocess of changes in soil physical properties such as clay content and slitto-clay ratio. According to the established soil fertility grading methodfor tobacco—rice rotation areas, the soil fertility of 11 tobacco stationswas graded. The results showed that the soil fertility was high in Haotang,Aoquan, Renyi, and Dashiqiao, medium in Huangsha and Tushi, and low inAnping, Baimangying, and Taiping. The tobacco and rice yields confirmedthat this grading standard can be effectively applied to the grading of soilfertility in the tobacco—rice rotation areas in Southern Hunan and canprovide a scientific basis for soil management in tobacco—rice rotation.
文摘Objective Selective estrogen receptor modulators(SERMs)have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of hypogonadism in males and male factor infertility.Two SERMs,clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen,are now prescribed for off-label use to treat both conditions in males.However,existing literature compares mixed protocols with active management.We aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of clomiphene and tamoxifen versus placebo on natural pregnancy rates.Methods We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of electronic databases:MEDLINE,PubMed/PMC,EMBASE,CINAHL,Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL),Scopus,Google Scholar,and Web of Science.Articles satisfying all selection criteria were analyzed.The primary outcome was the incidence of pregnancy after receiving the treatment.Secondary outcomes included serum follicle-stimulating hormone,luteinizing hormone,and testosterone levels,and sperm count and motility.We calculated the pooled odds ratio,risk ratio,and risk difference to ascertain possible alterations in the direction of the pooled effect size.Results Ten randomized controlled trials were ultimately included and underwent data extraction.Clomiphene citrate and placebo groups had similar pregnancy rates(10.4%and 7.1%,respectively;odds ratio 1.30[95%confidence interval 0.27–6.17];p=0.74).No meta-analysis could be calculated for pregnancy rates in tamoxifen versus placebo groups.Heterogeneity among the studies of both SERMs ranged from low to high.Conclusion Although clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen are often used off-label for the treatment of male infertility secondary to hypogonadism,studies of SERMs in the treatment of idiopathic male factor infertility are limited and heterogenous,preventing this meta-analysis from investigating the efficacy of SERMs on male infertility.The effect of clomiphene citrate or tamoxifen on the pregnancy rate remains uncertain.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42177341)the Natural Science Basic Research Program of Shanxi,China(202203021222138).
文摘Organic material combined with inorganic fertilizer has been shown to greatly improve crop yield and maintain soil fertility globally. However, it remains unclear if crop yield and soil fertility can be sustained in the long term under the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers. Three long-term field trials were conducted to investigate the effects of organic amendments on the grain sustainable yield index(SYI), soil fertility index(SFI)and nutrient balance in maize–wheat cropping systems of central and southern China during 1991–2019. Five treatments were included in the trials: 1) no fertilization(control);2) balanced mineral fertilization(NPK);3) NPK plus manure(NPKM);4) high dose of NPK plus manure(1.5NPKM);and 5) NPK plus crop straw(NPKS). Over time, the grain yields of wheat and maize showed an increasing trend in all four fertilization treatments at the Yangling(YL) and Zhengzhou(ZZ) locations, while they declined at Qiyang(QY). The grain yield in the NPKM and 1.5NPKM treatments gradually exceeded that of the NPK and NPKS treatments at the QY site. The largest SYI was recorded in the NPKM treatment across the three sites, suggesting that inorganic fertilizer combined with manure can effectively improve crop yield sustainability. Higher SYI values were recorded at the YL and ZZ sites than at the QY site, possibly because the soil was more acid at QY. The key factors affecting grain yield were soil available phosphorus(AP) and available potassium(AK) at the YL and ZZ sites, and pH and AP at the QY site.All fertilization treatments resulted in soil N and P surpluses at the three sites, but soil K surpluses were recorded only at the QY site. The SFI was greater in the 1.5NPKM, NPKM and NPKS treatments than in the NPK treatment by 13.3–40.0 and 16.4–63.6% at the YL and ZZ sites, respectively, and was significantly higher in the NPKM and 1.5NPKM treatments than in the NPK and NPKS treatments at the QY site. A significant, positive linear relationship was found between SFI and crop yield, and SYI and nutrient balance, indicating that grain yield and its sustainability significantly increased with increasing soil fertility. The apparent N, P and K balances positively affected SFI.This study suggests that the appropriate amount of manure mixed with mineral NPK fertilizer is beneficial to the development of sustainable agriculture, which effectively increases the crop yield and yield sustainability by improving soil fertility.
基金Supported by European Union-Next Generation EU,through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria,No.BG-RRP-2.004-0008.
文摘Fertility preservation and pregnancymanagement are critical considerations for patients undergoing organtransplantation.Innovations in assisted reproductive technologies,hormonalmodulation,and personalized medicine have expanded options for these patients,who face unique challenges due to immunosuppressive therapy and organ functionconcerns.This mini-review explores advancements in cryopreservationtechniques,pre-conception counseling,and multidisciplinary strategies forsafe pregnancies post-transplantation.Emphasis is placed on balancing maternalhealth,graft function,and fetal outcomes.The integration of reproductive andtransplant medicine is paving the way for improved quality of life andreproductive autonomy for this patient population.
基金financially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China(No.TD2023C006)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2572022DS13).
文摘The symbiotic relationships between trees and different mycorrhizal fungi affect the biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships within forest communities,particularly across different strata from the understorey to the overstorey.However,current research on this relationship has not yet reached a definitive conclusion.In this study,we used regression analyses and structural equation modelling based on a 9-ha mixed broadleaved-Korean pine(Pinus koraiensis)forest plot to explore the effects of different types of mycorrhizal fungi(arbuscular mycorrhizal(AM)and ectomycorrhizal(EM)fungi)on the relationship between tree species diversity and productivity.The study found that the dominance and productivity of AM species increased in the understorey with increasing soil nutrients,whereas the productivity of EM species declined despite increasing diversity.In the overstorey,the productivity of AM species continued to increase with increasing soil nutrients,while that of EM species decreased due to increased competition.As for diversity-productivity relationships(DPRs),in the understorey,both AM and EM tree species demonstrated a positive DPR,suggesting the presence of the niche complementarity effect.In the overstorey,AM species continue to exhibit positive DPR due to their competitive advantage in nutrient-rich environments.In contrast,EM species exhibit negative DPR due to increased competition or less efficient resource use.Additionally,slope influenced forest productivity indirectly by altering the accumulation and distribution of soil nutrients,thereby affecting species distribution and growth conditions.This indirect effect highlights the potential negative impact of slope on soil nutrients within forest ecosystems,as well as its influence on the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions.The study reveals how AM and EM trees influence forest productivity through distinct adaptability and competitive strategies across different forest strata,with a particular emphasis on the strata-dependent effects of mycorrhizal association on DPRs.This finding offers a new perspective on how mycorrhizal types modulate the complex relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functions across various strata in temperate forests.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFF1300802)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42377357).
文摘Artificial cyanobacteria crusts are formed by inoculating soil with cyanobacteria.These crusts help prevent soil erosion and restore soil functionality in degraded croplands.However,how fast the artificial cyanobacteria crusts can be formed is a key issue before their practical application.In addition,the effects of artificial cyanobacteria crusts on soil nutrients and plant growth are not fully explored.This study analyzed the effect of inoculation of cyanobacteria from local biological soil crusts on soil nutrients and Pak-choi(Brassica campestris L.ssp.Chinensis Makino var.communis Tsen et Lee;Chinese cabbage)growth in a cropland,northern China through field experiments by comparing with no fertilizer.The results showed that artificial cyanobacteria crusts were formed on the 18th d after inoculation with a coverage of 56.13%,a thickness of 3.74 mm,and biomass of 22.21μg chla/cm^(2).Artificial cyanobacteria crusts significantly improved the soil organic matter(SOM),NO_(3)^(-)-N,total nitrogen(TN)contents,and the activities of sucrase,alkaline phosphatase,urease,and catalase enzymes of plants on the 50th d after inoculation.Additionally,artificial cyanobacteria crusts led to an increase in plant biomass,improved root morphology,and raised the phosphorus and potassium contents in the plants.Furthermore,the biomass of plant grown with artificial cyanobacteria crusts was comparable with that of grown with chemical fertilizer.The study suggested that,considering plant biomass and soil nutrients,it is feasible to prevent wind erosion in the cropland of arid and semi-arid areas by inoculating cyanobacteria crusts.This study provides new perspectives for the sustainable development and environmental management of cropland in arid and semi-arid areas.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52170138)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFD1900305)+3 种基金Qingdao Agricultural University Doctoral Start-Up Fund(No.6631122003)the Project of Talent IntroductionEducation Program of Youth Innovation Teams in Universities of Shandong Province(2021–05)Shandong Provincial College Youth Innovation Team Program(No.2023KJ169).
文摘Cyclosporin A fermentation residue(CFR)is a type of organic waste generated during the production of cyclosporin A,which are abundant in nutrients including organic matter,phosphorus,nitrogen and potassium.Inappropriate handling of CFR not only waste valuable bioresources,but may also lead to the cyclosporin A and associated resistance genes into the natural environment,posing a significant threat to ecological system and human health.Land application was an effective way to resource recovery of CFR after aerobic composting(CAC).This study investigated the impact of CAC on soil fertility and environmental safety.The results indicated that CAC could improve soil nutrient contents and enhance enzyme activities.CAC altered the diversity and community composition of soil bacteria,resulting in an increase in the abundance of relevant bacteria beneficial for organic matter decomposition and cyclosporin A degradation.The introduced cyclosporin A(71.69μg/kg)completely degraded within 20 days due to soil biodegradation.The significantly increased abundance of intIl,mdr3,pgp,TSR and pmra in the soil cultivation early stage were restored to the soil background level within 90 days,indicating a reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance.The results demonstrated that reasonable land application of CAC could improve soil fertility without antimicrobial resistance risk,which is helpful for evaluating the resource utilization value and environmental risks of antibiotic fermentation residue after aerobic composting.
基金funded by Taif University,Saudi Arabia,Project No.(TU-DSPP-2025-30)The Science and Technology Fellowship Trust(SL No.39.00.0000.035.22.013.19.144)under the Ministry of Science and Technology of Bangladesh partially financed the current research。
文摘Improving crop productivity and soil fertility through the balanced application of inorganic and organic nutrient sources is a sustainable approach in modern agriculture.Char land soils,widely distributed in riverine Bangladesh,are generally low in organic matter status and deficient in necessary nutrient elements for crop production.Addressing this challenge,the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of various organic nutrient sources with inorganic fertilizers on crop yields,nutrient uptake,and soil fertility in farm(L1)and char land(L2)of Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh,Bangladesh from 2022(Y1)to 2023(Y2).For each location,eight treatments viz.T1(Control),T2[100%recommended fertilizer dose(RFD)],T3(75%RFD),T4(75%N from RFD 25%N from cow dung),T5(75%+N from RFD 25%N from poultry manure),T6(75%N from RFD 25%N from vermicompost),T7(75%N from++RFD 25%N from household compost)and T8(75%N from RFD 25%N from rice straw compost)were arranged in++a randomized complete block design with three replications using Wheat–Mungbean–T.Aman rice cropping pattern where three way interaction was considered for results.Treatment T5 performed the best in both years in both locations as it enhanced the yield components(p 0.05)and caused yield increment over control.The yield improvement in<Char land soils was higher than that in farm soils.For all three crops,treatment T5 consistently augmented the uptake of nitrogen,phosphorus,potassium,and sulphur by different parts of the crops and improved soil fertility properties such as organic matter status,cation exchange capacity,total nitrogen,available phosphorus,and sulphur as well as exchangeable potassium in both locations in both years.Cost and return analysis of different treatments for the whole cropping system showed that the highest marginal benefit-cost ratio(16.35 and 15.07)and gross return(about Tk 768,595/ha and 728,341/ha)were obtained from the T5 treatment in farm soils and Char land soils,respectively.Followed by poultry manure,vermicompost performed well in addition to mineral fertilizers for improving crop yield and soil fertility but its economic efficiency was less due to high input cost.These findings may be useful to the smallholder farmers in char areas,who could benefit from increased productivity,reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers,and improved soil health,contributing to the long-term sustainability of char land agriculture.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFC2705700)Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(No.2024A1515012355)+1 种基金the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(No.JCYJ20220530140609020)the Scientific Research Project of Wuhan Municipal Health Commission(No.WX21Q36).
文摘Objective The effects of prolonged exposure to persistently elevated atmospheric pollutants,commonly termed air pollution waves,on fertility intentions remain inadequately understood.This study aims to investigate the association between particulate matter(PM)exposure and fertility intentions.Methods In this nationwide cross-sectional study,we analyzed data from 10,747 participants(5496 females and 5251 males).PM waves were defined as periods lasting 3‒6 consecutive days during which the daily average concentrations exceeded China’s Ambient Air Quality Standards Grade II thresholds(PM2.5>75μg/m3 and PM10>150μg/m3).We employed multivariate logistic regression models to assess the association between exposure to PM waves and fertility intentions.Results Significant inverse associations were detected between exposure to PM2.5 wave events(characterized by concentrations exceeding 75μg/m3 for durations of 4‒6 days,P<0.05)and PM10 wave events(defined as concentrations exceeding 150μg/m3 for 6 consecutive days,P<0.05)and fertility intentions among females.In contrast,neither the PM2.5 wave nor the PM10 wave events demonstrated statistically significant correlations with fertility intentions in males(P>0.05 for all comparisons).The potentially susceptible subgroup was identified as females aged 20–30 years.Conclusions Our results provide the first evidence that PM2.5 and PM10 waves are associated with a reduction in female fertility intentions,offering critical insights for the development of public health policies and strategies aimed at individual protection.
基金Supported by Beijing University of Chinese Medicine First Class Discipline Construction:90010961020079。
文摘The ability of natural conception decreases with age,leading many advanced-age women with fertility desire begin to attempt in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer(IVF-ET)technique nowadays.Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)believes that human body undergoes periodic changes corresponding to the natural rhythms.Women exhibit distinct physiological lunar rhythms of the thoroughfare vessel and the conception vessel,as well as pathological rhythms during the menstrual cycle and IVF-ET cycle.Based on the theory of TCM temporal rhythm,this paper discusses the pathogenesis characteristics of infertility in advanced-age women at different stages.It believes that acupuncture intervention should comply with the following ideas:determining main acupoints based on disease differentiation,with a preference for the acupoints on the thoroughfare vessel,the conception vessel,spleen meridian and kidney meridian,as well as the back-shu points of the liver,spleen and kidney;determining the supplementary acupoints based on syndrome differentiation and symptoms;determining the supplementary acupoints based on time differentiation of lunar rhythm of the thoroughfare vessel and the conception vessel,and integrating both reinforcing and reducing techniques.During the process of intervention,the physical and mental states were balanced simultaneously.
文摘Selecting the embryo with the highest implantation potential is a top priority in in-vitro fertilization(IVF)centers.Few studies have explored the relationship between day 5 blastocyst morphokinetics and implantation outcomes[1].Despite numerous time-lapse studies,the findings often conflict due to differences in patient demographics,lab conditions,and protocols,such as oxygen concentration[2].Thus,there is ongoing debate regarding which parameters are most predictive of implantation.
文摘Spermatozoa are recognized as foreign cells by both male and female immune systems,leading to the production of antisperm antibodies(ASAs)when sperm are exposed to immune system due to a breach in the mucosal barrier.ASAs can be found in both sexes,though concentrations vary by individual and sex.This review examines ASAs production,their specific binding locations on sperm,and how ASAs may impair key sperm functions,including motility,viability,acrosome reaction,and capacitation.While ASAs are known to potentially interfere with sperm quality and sperm binding to zona pellucida in both humans and livestock,their impact on fertility remains debated,as ASAs are also detected in a significant number of fertile individuals.Furthermore,the practical relevance of ASAs screening in fertility assessment lacks consensus,with some findings suggesting that ASAs might even aid fertilization under certain conditions.By compiling the information on ASAs and their effects on semen quality and fertility,this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of ASAs in infertility.
基金supported by a fellowship from the China Scholarship Council(CSC),award nr.202106300012 to X.W.from EU-RISE Evofruland:grant agreement no.101007738 to X.W.
文摘Tomato reproductive success and yield are particularly vulnerable to the negative effect of heat stress leading to stigma exsertion(protrusion)and lower pollen viability,both interfering with fertilization.Thus,understanding the regulation of these two traits in tomato is crucial for the yield and quality of the crop.Here,we found that knocking out the tomato MADS-domain transcription factor FRUITFULL2(FUL2)function leads to a higher incidence of parthenocarpy in tomato.This phenotype was primarily due to impeded selfpollination as a consequence of the higher frequency of stigma exsertion and lower fertilization rates due to reduced pollen quality.Stigma exsertion in ful2 mutants,in contrast to heat stress-induced exsertion,was caused by style elongation,particularly in the younger flowers of a truss.Interestingly,Quantitative Trait Loci for style elongation,stigma exsertion,and pollen viability map close to the position of FUL2 on chromosome 3,making it a candidate gene underlying these QTLs.At the molecular level,ful2 mutant styles have higher expression of Style2.1 and SE3.1,which are known as positive regulators of style length.In addition,after reducing the impact of style exsertion and low pollen quality by manual pollination with wild-type pollen,ful2 mutants exhibited reduced fruit size independent of seed number.This study reveals the contributions of flower number,style length,and pollen quality,as affected by FUL2,to tomato fertility and fruit size.
基金funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation,Spain (AGL2017-88329-R, FPU18/00666 and PID2020-113320RB-I00)the Regional Government of Catalonia,Spain (2017-SGR-1229, 2020-FI-B-00412 and 2020-SGR-0900)the Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA)。
文摘Background Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, includ-ing energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content(mtDNAc) has been reported to be negatively linked to sperm function and fertility. Yet, the association between mtDNAc and sperm function in livestock remains unexplored. For this reason, this study aimed to shed some light on the link between mtDNAc and sperm function and fertilising potential in pigs. A qPCR method for mtDNAc quantification was optimised for pig sperm, and the association of this parameter with sperm motility, kinematics, mitochondrial activity, and fertility was subsequently interrogated.Results First, the q PCR method was found to be sensitive and efficient for mtDNAc quantification in pig sperm. By using this technique, mtDNAc was observed to be associated to sperm motility, mitochondrial activity and in vivo, but not in vitro, fertility outcomes. Specifically, sperm with low mtDNAc were seen to exhibit greater motility but decreased mitochondrial activity and intracellular reactive oxygen species. Interestingly, samples with lower mtD-NAc showed higher conception and farrowing rates, but similar in vitro fertilisation rates and embryo development, when compared to those with greater mtDNAc.Conclusions These findings enrich our comprehension of the association of mtDNAc with sperm biology, and lay the foundation for future research into employing this parameter as a molecular predictor for sperm function and fer-tility in livestock.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2020YFA0907600)the Major Program of Guangdong Basic and Applied Research (2019B030302006)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32101647)the Double First-Class Discipline Promotion Project (2023B10564004).
文摘Crop yield depends on biomass,which is primarily associated with photosynthesis.We previously demonstrated that two photorespiratory bypasses,i.e.,GOC(glycolate oxidase+oxalate oxidase+catalase)and GCGT(glycolate oxidase+catalase+glyoxylate carboligase+tartronic semialdehyde reductase),significantly increased photosynthesis,biomass,and grain yield,but decreased seed-setting rates in rice.This study explored the underlying mechanism of how elevated photosynthetic efficiency impacted the seed-setting.First,pollen germination assessed in vivo and in vitro,revealed a reduced germination rate in GCGT rice.Subsequent analysis found that photosynthates highly accumulated in the leaves and stems;sucrose and soluble sugar levels were increased but the starch level was reduced in the anthers.Uridine diphosphate glucose(UDP-Glc)was increased but uridine diphosphate galactose(UDP-Gal)was unaltered,thus causing an imbalance in the UDP-Glc/UDP-Gal ratio in GCGT anthers.Most anthers in GCGT plants had two locules in contrast to four in the wild-type(WT).Pollen tapetum was developmentally abnormal,and genes related to sucrose synthesis,transport,and tapetal programmed cell death(PCD)were upregulated,whereas those involved in starch synthesis and conversion were downregulated in GCGT anthers.Taken together,our results demonstrated that an increase in sugar content was the primary factor causing reduced seed-setting rates in high photosynthetic efficiency rice,during which metabolic disorder of sugars and UDP sugar imbalance in anthers lead to impaired pollen fertility.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD2301403-2)the Major Special Project of Anhui Province,China(2021d06050003)+2 种基金the Postdoctoral Foundation of Anhui Province,China(2022B638)the Special Project of Zhongke Bengbu Technology Transfer Center,China(ZKBB202103)the Grant of the President Foundation of Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of Chinese Academy of Sciences(YZJJ2023QN37)。
文摘Synthetic nitrogen(N)fertilizer has made a great contribution to the improvement of soil fertility and productivity,but excessive application of synthetic N fertilizer may cause agroecosystem risks,such as soil acidification,groundwater contamination and biodiversity reduction.Meanwhile,organic substitution has received increasing attention for its ecologically and environmentally friendly and productivity benefits.However,the linkages between manure substitution,crop yield and the underlying microbial mechanisms remain uncertain.To bridge this gap,a three-year field experiment was conducted with five fertilization regimes:i)Control,non-fertilization;CF,conventional synthetic fertilizer application;CF_(1/2)M_(1/2),1/2 N input via synthetic fertilizer and 1/2 N input via manure;CF_(1/4)M_(3/4),1/4 N input synthetic fertilizer and 3/4 N input via manure;M,manure application.All fertilization treatments were designed to have equal N input.Our results showed that all manure substituted treatments achieved high soil fertility indexes(SFI)and productivities by increasing the soil organic carbon(SOC),total N(TN)and available phosphorus(AP)concentrations,and by altering the bacterial community diversity and composition compared with CF.SOC,AP,and the soil C:N ratio were mainly responsible for microbial community variations.The co-occurrence network revealed that SOC and AP had strong positive associations with Rhodospirillales and Burkholderiales,while TN and C:N ratio had positive and negative associations with Micromonosporaceae,respectively.These specific taxa are implicated in soil macroelement turnover.Random Forest analysis predicted that both biotic(bacterial composition and Micromonosporaceae)and abiotic(AP,SOC,SFI,and TN)factors had significant effects on crop yield.The present work strengthens our understanding of the effects of manure substitution on crop yield and provides theoretical support for optimizing fertilization strategies.
基金supported by the Hunan Province Municipal Natural Science Foundation(No.2022JJ30018 to WNL)the Hunan Province Health Commission Science Foundation(No.B202301037899 to WNL)Research Grant of CITIC-Xiangya(No.YNXM-202219 to WNL).
文摘Necrozoospermia is a poorly documented condition with a low incidence,and its definition and clinical significance are unclear.Herein,we provide a reference range for necrozoospermia and discuss its possible etiology and impact on male fertility and assisted reproductive outcomes.We extracted relevant information from 650 Chinese male partners of infertile couples and statistically analyzed sperm vitality.Necrozoospermia was present in 3.4%(22/650)of our study population,and the lower cut-off value for sperm vitality was 75.3%.We compared two methods for assessing sperm vitality(eosin-nigrosin head staining and hypo-osmotic swelling test[HOST]),for which the percentage in the eosin-nigrosin group(mean±standard deviation[s.d.]:77.5%±10.5%)was significantly higher than that in the HOST group(mean±s.d.:58.1%±6.7%[5-10 min after incubation]and 55.6%±8.2%[25-30 min after incubation];both P<0.001).The incidence of necrozoospermia increased with age(odds ratio[OR]=1.116,95%confidence interval[CI]:1.048-1.189,P=0.001),while the percentage of normal sperm morphology and DNA fragmentation index(DFI)were significantly associated with necrozoospermia,with ORs of 0.691(95%CI:0.511-0.935,P=0.017)and 1.281(95%CI:1.180-1.390,P<0.001),respectively.In the following 6 months,we recruited 166 patients in the nonnecrozoospermia group and 87 patients in the necrozoospermia group to compare intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)and pregnancy outcomes between the two groups.The necrozoospermia group had a significantly lower normal fertilization rate(74.7%vs 78.2%,P=0.041;OR=0.822;95%CI:0.682-0.992)than that in the nonnecrozoospermia group.This study presents substantial information on necrozoospermia to establish comprehensive and applicable reference values for sperm vitality for spontaneous conception and artificially assisted reproductive management.
文摘Objective:To explore the impact of Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract on fertility parameters in streptozotocin(STZ)-induced male rats.Methods:Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four different groups.All groups except a normal control group were induced with 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin(STZ)intravenously to induce diabetes.A positive control group was treated with an antidiabetic drug,metformin(500 mg/kg)whereas a negative control group remained untreated throughout the experiment.Meanwhile,another diabetic rat group received treatment with 400 mg/kg of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract.Rats in the treatment group were administered Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract daily through forcefeeding via oral gavage for a 21-day period.Assessments included the sperm quality(count,motility and morphology),histology of the testes,serum testosterone and fasting blood glucose(FBG)level.Results:The FBG level of the Ficus carica-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease compared to the negative control group(P<0.05).Sperm quality analysis also indicated that the aqueous Ficus carica extract had significant positive effects on sperm count and motility(P<0.05).The histology of the testes in Ficus caricatreated rats revealed an improved cell arrangement in the germinal cell layer.Furthermore,serum testosterone level showed an increment in the Ficus carica treatment group in comparison to the negative control group.Conclusions:Our findings provide compelling evidence for the profertility and anti-hyperglycemic properties of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract in diabetic-induced male rats.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31972791)the Earmarked Fund for Agriculture Seed Improvement Project of Shandong Province(No.2020LZGC016)+1 种基金the Scientific and Technological Project of Yantai,Shandong Province(No.2022XCZX083)the Earmarked Fund for Shandong Modern Agro-Industry Technology Research System(No.SDAIT-14)。
文摘The two bay scallop subspecies,Argopecten irradians irradians(NN)and A.i.concentricus(SS),are fast growing and major cultured bivalves in China.However,their relatively small sizes and decreasing production traits caused by long-term inbreeding have been major concerns to the industry in the last two decades.Hybridization between the two bay scallop subspecies may provide a new approach to breed a new variety with superior production traits for the industry.For this end,in this study,we hybridized the two bay scallop subspecies in order to obtain a new strain that incorporates the genes of both subspecies.No significant difference was found in fertilization rate,hatching rate and metamorphosis rate between the purebred and crossbred cohorts(NN♀×SS♂,denoted as NS;SS♀×NN♂,denoted as SN).Both mating strategy(intra-vs.inter-population crosses)and egg origin had significant effects on growth and survival at the larval stage.Heterosis was observed in the crossbred and was more pronounced in older stages.Genetic diversity of the reciprocal hybrids,especially that of SN,was increased compared with the purebred cohorts.Almost all hybrids were completely fertile and able to reproduce by selffertilization or by backcrossing with either parent.Apparently,male sterile individuals whose gonads were fully occupied by the ovary part at mature stage were found in the hybrids for the first time.The hybrids,especially SN,may provide precious germplasm resources for the production of ternary hybrids with the Peruvian scallop,A.purpuratus.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81571488 and No.81771637).
文摘Male germ cells employ specific metabolic pathways throughout their developmental stages.In a previous study,we discovered heightened expression of pyruvate kinase M(PKM),a pivotal glycolytic enzyme,in spermatogonia and spermatids.To gain deeper insights into PKM's roles in spermatogenesis,sperm function,and male fertility,we engineered a conditional-knockout mouse model(Pkm-vkO mice)to selectively disrupt the Pkm gene within germ cells.Despite maintaining regular testicular histology and sperm morphology,the male Pkm-vko mice were infertility,characterized by significant impairments in sperm motility and adenosine triphosphate(ATP)generation.In addition,Pkm-null spermatozoa exhibited similar deficits in protein tyrosine phosphorylation linked to capacitation,as well as compromised performance in in vitro fertilization experiments.To conclude,PKM's presence is not obligatory for the entirety of spermatogenesis in male germ cells;however,it emerges as a critical factor influencing sperm motility and overall male fertility.
