The biological species concept defines species as groups of actually or potentially interbreeding natural populations that are reproductively isolated from other such groups(Mayr,1942).Reproductive isolation,whether p...The biological species concept defines species as groups of actually or potentially interbreeding natural populations that are reproductively isolated from other such groups(Mayr,1942).Reproductive isolation,whether prezygotic or postzygotic,plays a central role in maintaining species boundaries.However,hybridization between closely related taxa can challenge these boundaries and provide insight into speciation,gene flow,and evolutionary processes(Coyne and Orr,2004).展开更多
Infertility,defined as the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 1 year of unprotected and regular sexual intercourse,affects approximately 8%–12%of couples worldwide during their childbearing years.Assiste...Infertility,defined as the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 1 year of unprotected and regular sexual intercourse,affects approximately 8%–12%of couples worldwide during their childbearing years.Assisted reproductive technology(ART)offers interventions to facilitate conception in couples with infertility.Since the inception of traditional in vitro fertilization(IVF)in 1978,ART has facilitated the birth of millions of infants.Intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)is an effective technique for couples ineligible for traditional IVF.Individual female factors,such as age and endometrial thickness,have been shown to affect embryo development during the IVF process,resulting in unfavorable pregnancy outcomes[1-3].However,the influence of environmental and male factors on early reproductive outcomes cannot be ignored.As a novel form of environmental pollution,light at night(LAN)has intensified with the rapid pace of urbanization,potentially leading to reproductive health problems in both women and men.However,to our knowledge,no study has explored the effects of LAN exposure on the early reproductive outcomes of IVF.Furthermore,the normal development of embryos relies on the contributions of both partners,and the influence of male factors on the early reproductive outcomes of IVF should not be overlooked.展开更多
Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research a...Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects,especially in improving sexual function,hormone regulation,anti-osteoporosis,immune function regulation,anti-oxidation,and anti-tumor activity.To date,we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system.However,their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years.This review critically focuses on the Epimedium,its bioactive compounds,and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system.Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.展开更多
Background Sow longevity and reproductivity are essential in the modern swine industry.Although many studies have focused on the genetic and genomic factors for selection,little is known about the associations between...Background Sow longevity and reproductivity are essential in the modern swine industry.Although many studies have focused on the genetic and genomic factors for selection,little is known about the associations between the microbiome and sows with longevity in reproduction.Results In this study,we collected and sequenced rectal and vaginal swabs from 48 sows,nine of which completed up to four parities(U4P group),exhibiting reproductive longevity.We first identified predictors of sow longevity in the rectum(e.g.,Akkermansia)and vagina(e.g.,Lactobacillus)of the U4P group using RandomForest in the early breeding stage of the first parity.Interestingly,these bacteria in the U4P group showed decreased predicted KEGG gene abundance involved in the biosynthesis of amino acids.Then,we tracked the longitudinal changes of the micro-biome over four parities in the U4P sows.LEfSe analysis revealed parity-associated bacteria that existed in both the rectum and vagina(e.g.,Streptococcus in Parity 1,Lactobacillus in Parity 2,Veillonella in Parity 4).We also identi-fied patterns of bacterial change between the early breeding stage(d 0)and d 110,such as Streptococcus,which was decreased in all four parties.Furthermore,sows in the U4P group with longevity potential also showed better reproductive performance.Finally,we discovered bacterial predictors(e.g.,Prevotellaceae NK3B31 group)for the total number of piglets born throughout the four parities in both the rectum and vagina.Conclusions This study highlights how the rectal and vaginal microbiome in sows with longevity in reproduc-tion changes within four parities.The identification of parity-associated,pregnancy-related,and reproductive performance-correlated bacteria provides the foundation for targeted microbiome modulation to improve animal production.展开更多
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide,presenting an increasing public health challenge,particularly in lowincome and middle-income countries.However,data on ...BACKGROUND Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide,presenting an increasing public health challenge,particularly in lowincome and middle-income countries.However,data on the knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices regarding breast cancer and the associated factors among females in Wollo,Ethiopia,remain limited.AIM To assess the impact of family history(FH)of breast disease on knowledge,attitudes,and breast cancer preventive practices among reproductive-age females.METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in May and June 2022 in Northeast Ethiopia and involved 143 reproductive-age females with FH of breast diseases and 209 without such a history.We selected participants using the systematic random sampling technique.We analyzed the data using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25 software,and logistic regression analysis was employed to determine odds ratios for variable associations,with statistical significance set at P<0.05.RESULTS Among participants with FH of breast diseases,the levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices were found to be 83.9%[95%confidence interval(CI):77.9-89.9],49.0%(95%CI:40.8-57.1),and 74.1%(95%CI:66.9-81.3),respectively.In contrast,among those without FH of breast diseases,these levels were significantly decreased to 10.5%(95%CI:6.4-14.7),32.1%(95%CI:25.7-38.4),and 16.7%(95%CI:11.7-21.8),respectively.This study also indicated that knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices related to breast cancer are significantly higher among participants with FH of breast diseases compared to those without HF breast diseases.CONCLUSION Educational status,monthly income,and community health insurance were identified as significant factors associated with the levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices regarding breast cancer among reproductive-age females.展开更多
Stromal vascular fraction(SVF)is a complex mixture derived from adipose tissue,consisting of a variety of cells.Due to its potential for tissue repair,immunomod-ulation,and support of angiogenesis,SVF represents a pro...Stromal vascular fraction(SVF)is a complex mixture derived from adipose tissue,consisting of a variety of cells.Due to its potential for tissue repair,immunomod-ulation,and support of angiogenesis,SVF represents a promising frontier in regenerative medicine and offers potential therapy for a range of disease condi-tions.In this article,we delve into the mechanisms through which SVF exerts its effects and explore its potential applications in treating both male and female reproductive disorders,including erectile dysfunction,testicular injury,stress urinary incontinence and intrauterine adhesion.展开更多
Background Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid(GenX),a substitute for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances,has been widely detected in various environmental matrices and foods recently,attracting great attention.Howeve...Background Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid(GenX),a substitute for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances,has been widely detected in various environmental matrices and foods recently,attracting great attention.However,a systematic characterization of its reproductive toxicity is still missing.This study aims to explore the male reproductive toxicity caused by GenX exposure and the potential cellular and molecular regulatory mechanisms behind it.Results Normally developing mice were exposed to GenX,and testicular tissue was subsequently analyzed and validated using single-cell RNA sequencing.Our results revealed that GenX induced severe testicular damage,disrupted the balance between undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonial stem cells,and led to strong variation in the cellular dynamics of spermatogenesis.Furthermore,GenX exposure caused global upregulation of testicular somatic cellular inflammatory responses,increased abnormal macrophage differentiation,and attenuated fibroblast adhesion,disorganizing the somatic-germline interactions.Conclusions In conclusion,this study revealed complex cellular dynamics and transcriptome changes in mouse testis after GenX exposure,providing a valuable resource for understanding its reproductive toxicity.展开更多
This is a correction to:Isabela R R Moraes,Mariana Antunes,Laura S Lopez-Greco,Fernando Jose Zara,Antonio Leao Castilho,Functional reproductive morphology of the snapping shrimp genus Synalpheus Spence Bate,1888(Decap...This is a correction to:Isabela R R Moraes,Mariana Antunes,Laura S Lopez-Greco,Fernando Jose Zara,Antonio Leao Castilho,Functional reproductive morphology of the snapping shrimp genus Synalpheus Spence Bate,1888(Decapoda,Alpheidae),Current Zoology,2024,71,338-352;https:/doi.org/10.1093/cz/zoae053.展开更多
Studying the reproductive system of the pine wood nematode,Bursaphelenchus xylophilus(Steiner&Buhrer)Nickle,will identify its characteristics and life cycle.This is crucial for developing more targeted control str...Studying the reproductive system of the pine wood nematode,Bursaphelenchus xylophilus(Steiner&Buhrer)Nickle,will identify its characteristics and life cycle.This is crucial for developing more targeted control strategies.In this study,the development of the gonads and reproductive organs were observed using microscopy,gonad dissection,and DAPI staining techniques.Second-stage juveniles(J2)had gonads composed of four primordial germ cells(Z1,Z2,Z3,and Z4)that form the adult gonads by proliferation within 72 h at 25℃.There were subtle differences in somatic gonad cell morphology between males and females,which developed from Z1 and Z4 in third-stage juveniles(J3).These differences became more pronounced at fourth-stage juveniles(J4)and adult stages.Z2 and Z3 germ cells underwent mitosis and two rounds of meiosis,ultimately developing into male and female gametes.Female vulval precursor cells and male cloacal cells developed rapidly during the J4 stage.These results provide a basis for identifying the expression sites and biological functions of key genes regulating reproductive system development.Based on this,in situ hybridization and RNA interference(RNAi)were used to determine the function of the Bxy-glp-1 gene to show that it is involved in vulval formation and spermatogenesis.The results of this study will lay the foundation for disrupting critical stages in the reproduction of B.xylophilus.展开更多
Background: Diabetes is a set of metabolic abnormalities typified by hyperglycemia believed to be associated with aberrant insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Erectile dysfunction and infertility are globally ...Background: Diabetes is a set of metabolic abnormalities typified by hyperglycemia believed to be associated with aberrant insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Erectile dysfunction and infertility are globally prevalent complications among male diabetic patients. There is a need to understand the role of a male reproductive hormone in the etiology of infertility in diabetic patients. Objective: This study aims to determine the effect of diabetes mellitus on the Male reproductive hormone (testosterone) on diabetic patients attending the Urology unit of Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria and the effect of industrial sugar consumption in rats model. Materials and Methods: 30 samples (including repeats, n = 3) were collected from known diabetic patients and 30 (including repeats, n = 3) control-non diabetic healthy individuals. Five millilitres (5 ml) of blood was collected from the antecubital vein of each participant and placed into a plain container for serum testosterone measurement using the enzyme-linked immunoassay technique. Blood was also collected from the same subjects in a fluoride oxalate container for plasma enzymatic glucose estimation using a Randox Glucose oxidase kit. For in vivo rat model, the albino rats were grouped into 2 of five (5) rats. The control group (1) was only given normal rat food and water while the test group (2) was treated with 0.4 g of industrial sugar/mL/body weight in addition to rat food and water via oral intubation for 21 days. Blood samples were collected via ocular puncture into plain tubes for testosterone measurement as described above. Results: There is a significant (p Conclusion: In conclusion, data available from this study suggests that increased plasma glucose levels and excessive industrial sugar consumption are associated with decreased testosterone levels in both human and animal models respectively. The mechanism is yet unclear but it could be that DM alters conventional sperm parameters, spermatogenesis, and biosynthesis of testosterone and induces degenerative changes in the testis and epididymis and ejaculatory dysfunction. These mechanisms need to be investigated.展开更多
The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect and mechanism of quercetin on reproductive performance in perinatal sows.According to the similar principle of parity and body weight,24 perinatal sows were...The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect and mechanism of quercetin on reproductive performance in perinatal sows.According to the similar principle of parity and body weight,24 perinatal sows were randomly divided into four treatments with six replicates,including normal control and three treatments fed by a basal diet supplemented with 0,0.025%,0.050%,and 0.075%quercetin,respectively.The feeding trial was conducted from 100 days of gestation to 28 days post-partum.Reproductive performance,colostrum composition,serum indexes of antioxidation,inflammation,hormones,and the diversity and relative abundance of fecal microflora were determined in perinatal sows.Compared with the control,quercetin significantly reduced the rate of constipation,serum content of malondialdehyde(MDA),prolactin(PRL),and progesterone(PROG),and significantly increased the content of serum estradiol(E2)and insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1)in colostrum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).Meanwhile,0.025%quercetin significantly increased glutathione(GSH)content in serum(P<0.05),0.050%quercetin significantly reduced the rate of backfat loss(P<0.05),and 0.075%quercetin significantly increased immunoglobulin M(IgM)content in colostrum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).In addition,0.050%and 0.075%quercetin significantly shortened estrus interval(P<0.05)and significantly increased the content of IgA and IgG in colostrum(P<0.05)and dopamine(DA)content in serum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).Quercetin significantly decreased the content of nitric oxide(NO),IL-1β,IL-6,TNF-α,and MCP-1 in serum(P<0.05)and significantly improved microflora abundance and diversity in feces of perinatal sows(P<0.05).In conclusion,dietary supplementation of quercetin reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and regulated intestinal microflora in perinatal sows,thus improved reproductive performance in perinatal sows.Under this experimental condition,the optimal supplementation with dietary quercetin was 0.075%in perinatal sows.展开更多
Individual phenological life-history variations in the context of seasonal conditions are well documented in fshes and birds.However,amphibians,a group heavily affected by habitat loss and fragmentation,have received ...Individual phenological life-history variations in the context of seasonal conditions are well documented in fshes and birds.However,amphibians,a group heavily affected by habitat loss and fragmentation,have received relatively little attention regarding research on life-history adaptations.Here we present 3 years of data on the timing of reproductive activity in a suburban European green toad(Bufotes viridis)population.We found annually consistent patterns of reproductive activity and investigated whether these were caused by allochrony or individual attributes.Body size(a proxy for age),body condition,and sex signifcantly affected the timing of reproductive activity.However,most individuals showed considerable overlap in their reproductive timeframe,refuting the existence of allochronic subpopulations.Our fndings may indicate life-history adaptations in the direction of a faster lifestyle in response to hazardous environments.We propose to focus further research efforts on phenological variations in the context of environmental conditions,and that phenological variations should be considered more strongly in amphibian conservation efforts.展开更多
Citrus,which has been consumed internationally for a long time,is widely used as a health food.Citrus and its active components exert significant effects on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism,which are closely asso...Citrus,which has been consumed internationally for a long time,is widely used as a health food.Citrus and its active components exert significant effects on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism,which are closely associated with female reproductive health.Studies suggest that citrus-derived compounds may alleviate oxidative stress by activating signaling pathways such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)and Sirtuin 1(SIRT1),and improve lipid metabolism through the activation of pathways such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα(PPARα).This review focuses on the effects of Citrus on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism,aiming to provide new insights for promoting female reproductive health;however,further work is needed to elucidate the mechanisms involved and validate the therapeutic potential of Citrus’s bioactive components in clinical settings.展开更多
Plants and their interaction partners offer unparalleled views of evolutionary ecology.Nectar larceny,entailing nectar extraction without pollinating,is thought to be an example of a harmful,antagonistic behavior,but ...Plants and their interaction partners offer unparalleled views of evolutionary ecology.Nectar larceny,entailing nectar extraction without pollinating,is thought to be an example of a harmful,antagonistic behavior,but the precise consequences of floral larceny on plant reproductive success remain contentious.We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of 153 studies across 120 plant species,using 14 moderators to assess the effects of floral larceny on plant reproductive success and examine the key moderators.We found that floral larceny negatively impacts flower traits,pollinator visitation,pollen deposition,and fruit set,while having a neutral effect on critical female fitness indicators,such as seed set and seed quality,as well as on male fitness.By altering pollinator behavior,floral larceny may reduce geitonogamy,potentially enhancing genetic diversity.Additionally,factors such as pollinator type,plant mating system,and pollen limitation were identified as key moderators of these effects.Our analysis reveals an ultimately neutral effect of floral larceny on plant reproductive success,with potential benefits in certain contexts.These findings suggest that floral larceny plays a complex and multifaceted role within plant-pollinator interactions,facilitating the evolutionary stability and coexistence of floral larcenists and host plants.展开更多
Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.En...Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.Enhancing reproductive drought tolerance in maize requires elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying its response to drought stress,which can then be incorporated into the development of new maize varieties through breeding programs.Additionally,innovative cultivation practices must be devised to complement these genetic improvements.In this review,the timing,duration,and severity of drought stress during the reproductive stage and their effects on maize kernel set are assessed,providing a basis for constructing a framework that links kernel setting to drought stress.Based on this framework,reproductive drought tolerance from tasseling through post-fertilization kernel establishment is subsequently examined.Evidence indicates that drought-induced fertilization failure is primarily due to delayed pollination resulting from slower silk elongation,which is caused by the loss of cell turgor and reduced carbon supply.Meanwhile,kernel abortion after fertilization is mainly triggered by carbohydrate starvation,increased ethylene emission,and the accumulation of abscisic acid(ABA).Therefore,sugar metabolism,hydraulic status,and hormone signaling collectively regulate maize's kernel setting tolerance to drought stress in a synergistic manner.Several novel gene candidates with potential for conferring drought tolerance in maize have been identified,offering promising targets for genetic improvement through genome editing combined with targeted cultivation practices to enhance maize drought tolerance and ensure stable grain yield in future crops.展开更多
Microplastics and nanoplastics(MPs/NPs)are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals(EDCs),raising significant concerns about their impact on human health.Research highlights the h...Microplastics and nanoplastics(MPs/NPs)are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals(EDCs),raising significant concerns about their impact on human health.Research highlights the hazardous effects of MPs/NPs on both male and female reproductive systems,influencing germ cells,embryo development,and progeny.Additionally,studies show that MPs/NPs affect the gene expression of anabolic steroid hormones in vitro and in vivo,inducing reproductive toxicity through mechanisms such as oxidative stress and inflammation.Considering these adverse effects,identifying natural compounds that can mitigate the toxicity of MPs/NPs is increasingly important.Plants offer a wealth of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can counteract these harmful effects.Among these,anthocyanins,natural colorants responsible for the vibrant hues of fruits and flowers,exhibit a wide range of biological activities,including antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-neoplastic properties.Moreover,anthocyanins can modulate sex hormone levels and alleviate reproductive toxicity.Cyanidin-3-glucoside(C3G),one of the most extensively studied anthocyanins,shows promise in reducing reproductive toxicity,particularly in females,and in protecting male reproductive organs,including the testis and epididymis.This protective effect is believed to result from its interaction with steroid receptors,specifically the androgen and estrogen receptors(ERs).These findings highlight the need to explore the mechanisms by which anthocyanins mitigate the reproductive toxicity caused by MPs/NPs.This review provides novel insights into how natural compounds can be leveraged to lessen the impact of environmental contaminants on human health,especially concerning reproductive health.展开更多
Animal coloration has a wide range of biological functions and may be subject to different,sometimes conficting,selective pressures.In crustaceans,the evolution of coloration is relatively unstudied,despite the broad ...Animal coloration has a wide range of biological functions and may be subject to different,sometimes conficting,selective pressures.In crustaceans,the evolution of coloration is relatively unstudied,despite the broad range of colors and color patterns,which includes variability at multiple levels.Freshwater crayfsh are known to show color variability within species and populations,as well as intra-individual variability,but thefunction,if any,of crayfsh coloration is largely unknown.Here,I report on an experiment to understand patterns of color variability in the crayfsh Faxonius virilis and show that variation is strongly correlated to ontogenetic changes from a summer non-reproductive form to a fall reproductiveform.Crayfsh showed comparatively little inter-and intra-individual color variation in their non-reproductive form,but substantial variation at bothlevels in the reproductive form.Transition to the reproductive form was associated with the development of greener or bluer coloration localizedto the chelae on a subset of individuals,but these changes showed no clear correlation with sex or body size.Future investigations should focuson determining whether differences in color between individuals in the mating season are associated with any physiological or behavioral differences,or with differential susceptibility to predation.展开更多
Background Compelling evidence has established a strong link between the gut microbiota and host reproductive health.However,the specific regulatory roles of individual bacterial species on reproductive performance ar...Background Compelling evidence has established a strong link between the gut microbiota and host reproductive health.However,the specific regulatory roles of individual bacterial species on reproductive performance are not well-understood.In the present study,Jinhua sows with varying reproductive performances under the same diet and management conditions were selected to explore potential mechanisms on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and host reproductive performance using 16S rRNA sequencing,metagenomics and serum metabolomics.Results Our findings revealed that the KEGG pathways for base excision repair and DNA replication were enriched,along with gene-level enhancements in spore formation,in sows with higher reproductive performance,indicating that the gut microbiome experiences stress.Further analysis showed a positive correlation between these changes and litter size,indicating that the host acts as a stressor,reshaping the microbiome.This adaptation allows the intestinal microbes in sows with high reproductive performance to enrich specific serotonin-related bacteria,such as Oxalobacter formigenes,Ruminococcus sp.CAG 382,Clostridium leptum,and Clostridium botulinum.Subsequently,the enriched microbiota may promote host serotonin production,which is positively correlated with reproductive performance in our study,known to regulate follicle survival and oocyte maturation.Conclusion Our study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the interactions between gut microbes and the host.It highlights new insights into reassembling gut microbiota in sows with higher litter sizes and the role of serotonin-related microbiota and serotonin in fertility.展开更多
The rapidly evolving environment of assisted reproductive technology(ART)requires consideration of how new innovations are reshaping clinical practice as much as research.In particular,there are three key areas that,w...The rapidly evolving environment of assisted reproductive technology(ART)requires consideration of how new innovations are reshaping clinical practice as much as research.In particular,there are three key areas that,while full of promise,also present significant challenges:the use of artificial intelligence(AI)in embryo selection,the impact of personalized medicine on ART success rates,and the ethical considerations of genetic screening of embryos[1].This letter is meant to provoke further discussion and highlight the need for harmonized global guidelines as these advances continue to reshape the reproductive medicine environment.展开更多
The objective of this study was to characterize the rumination time in lactating dairy cows fed with corn silage.Rumination time was recorded 24 h/day using direct visual observation.Six trials were conducted during 2...The objective of this study was to characterize the rumination time in lactating dairy cows fed with corn silage.Rumination time was recorded 24 h/day using direct visual observation.Six trials were conducted during 2018,2019 and 2020,and rumination time was recorded in 480-2-hour periods from 40 Holstein Friesian cows.In each trial,6 or 8 cows were selected and balanced for days in milk(DIM),milk production and number of lactations.Each cow was recorded continuously for periods of 2 h at a time to complete a full 24-h period per week(12 values per day).Data from all cows were associated with 4 reproductive statuses of cows:Inseminated(1-45 days after insemination),Open(45-150 days after calving),not-pregnant and pregnant.The longest rumination time(RT)was found in pregnant cows(average 536.9±29.87 min/day),and the shortest RT was in open cows(average 420.3±63.2 min/day).Inseminated and non-pregnant cows were found with intermediate values(527.3±82.4 min/day and 467.1±30.7 respectively).Significantly different RT means were found between pregnant and open cows(p<0.0001),pregnant vs.inseminated cows(p<0.0001),and between inseminated and open cows(p=0.0005).We concluded that some gynecological conditions of lactating cows affect the RT.Measurement of RT by visual observations proved to be acceptable for the conditions of this study when cows were housed indoors and were fed with partial mixed ration(PMR)based on corn silage.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32161143024,31970405)Iran National Science Foundation,Iran-China(INSF-NSFC)joint project(No.4002006).
文摘The biological species concept defines species as groups of actually or potentially interbreeding natural populations that are reproductively isolated from other such groups(Mayr,1942).Reproductive isolation,whether prezygotic or postzygotic,plays a central role in maintaining species boundaries.However,hybridization between closely related taxa can challenge these boundaries and provide insight into speciation,gene flow,and evolutionary processes(Coyne and Orr,2004).
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2018YFC1004201)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82473642)+3 种基金Research Funds of the Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM(No.JKS2023017)Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province(No.2408085QH278)Research Fund of the Anhui Institute of Translational Medicine(No.2022zhyx-C05)Anhui Medical University National Undergraduate Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program(No.S202410366070).
文摘Infertility,defined as the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 1 year of unprotected and regular sexual intercourse,affects approximately 8%–12%of couples worldwide during their childbearing years.Assisted reproductive technology(ART)offers interventions to facilitate conception in couples with infertility.Since the inception of traditional in vitro fertilization(IVF)in 1978,ART has facilitated the birth of millions of infants.Intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI)is an effective technique for couples ineligible for traditional IVF.Individual female factors,such as age and endometrial thickness,have been shown to affect embryo development during the IVF process,resulting in unfavorable pregnancy outcomes[1-3].However,the influence of environmental and male factors on early reproductive outcomes cannot be ignored.As a novel form of environmental pollution,light at night(LAN)has intensified with the rapid pace of urbanization,potentially leading to reproductive health problems in both women and men.However,to our knowledge,no study has explored the effects of LAN exposure on the early reproductive outcomes of IVF.Furthermore,the normal development of embryos relies on the contributions of both partners,and the influence of male factors on the early reproductive outcomes of IVF should not be overlooked.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.31960156,No.31660338,No.31760627,and No.32270848)Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Ministry of Education(2020-39),Science and Technology Support Program of Guizhou Province(QKH[2021]111,QKH[2020]4Y192,QKH[2018]5772-006,and QKH[2019]5406)Science and Technology Fund of Guizhou Provincial Health Commission(gzwkj2022-019).
文摘Compounds isolated from Epimedium include the total flavonoids of Epimedium,icariin,and its metabolites(icaritin,icariside Ⅰ,and icariside Ⅱ),which have similar molecular structures.Modern pharmacological research and clinical practice have proved that Epimedium and its active components have a wide range of pharmacological effects,especially in improving sexual function,hormone regulation,anti-osteoporosis,immune function regulation,anti-oxidation,and anti-tumor activity.To date,we still need a comprehensive source of knowledge about the pharmacological effects of Epimedium and its bioactive compounds on the male reproductive system.However,their actions in other tissues have been reviewed in recent years.This review critically focuses on the Epimedium,its bioactive compounds,and the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the male reproductive system.Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on the Epimedium and its bioactive compounds that protect the male reproductive system and provide some guidances for clinical treatment of related male reproductive disorders.
基金funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2023YFE0124400)the Specific university discipline construction project (2023B10564001)+1 种基金grants administered by the Arkansas Biosciences Institute and the USDAa core grant (P20GM121293, proteogenomics core)。
文摘Background Sow longevity and reproductivity are essential in the modern swine industry.Although many studies have focused on the genetic and genomic factors for selection,little is known about the associations between the microbiome and sows with longevity in reproduction.Results In this study,we collected and sequenced rectal and vaginal swabs from 48 sows,nine of which completed up to four parities(U4P group),exhibiting reproductive longevity.We first identified predictors of sow longevity in the rectum(e.g.,Akkermansia)and vagina(e.g.,Lactobacillus)of the U4P group using RandomForest in the early breeding stage of the first parity.Interestingly,these bacteria in the U4P group showed decreased predicted KEGG gene abundance involved in the biosynthesis of amino acids.Then,we tracked the longitudinal changes of the micro-biome over four parities in the U4P sows.LEfSe analysis revealed parity-associated bacteria that existed in both the rectum and vagina(e.g.,Streptococcus in Parity 1,Lactobacillus in Parity 2,Veillonella in Parity 4).We also identi-fied patterns of bacterial change between the early breeding stage(d 0)and d 110,such as Streptococcus,which was decreased in all four parties.Furthermore,sows in the U4P group with longevity potential also showed better reproductive performance.Finally,we discovered bacterial predictors(e.g.,Prevotellaceae NK3B31 group)for the total number of piglets born throughout the four parities in both the rectum and vagina.Conclusions This study highlights how the rectal and vaginal microbiome in sows with longevity in reproduc-tion changes within four parities.The identification of parity-associated,pregnancy-related,and reproductive performance-correlated bacteria provides the foundation for targeted microbiome modulation to improve animal production.
文摘BACKGROUND Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide,presenting an increasing public health challenge,particularly in lowincome and middle-income countries.However,data on the knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices regarding breast cancer and the associated factors among females in Wollo,Ethiopia,remain limited.AIM To assess the impact of family history(FH)of breast disease on knowledge,attitudes,and breast cancer preventive practices among reproductive-age females.METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in May and June 2022 in Northeast Ethiopia and involved 143 reproductive-age females with FH of breast diseases and 209 without such a history.We selected participants using the systematic random sampling technique.We analyzed the data using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25 software,and logistic regression analysis was employed to determine odds ratios for variable associations,with statistical significance set at P<0.05.RESULTS Among participants with FH of breast diseases,the levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices were found to be 83.9%[95%confidence interval(CI):77.9-89.9],49.0%(95%CI:40.8-57.1),and 74.1%(95%CI:66.9-81.3),respectively.In contrast,among those without FH of breast diseases,these levels were significantly decreased to 10.5%(95%CI:6.4-14.7),32.1%(95%CI:25.7-38.4),and 16.7%(95%CI:11.7-21.8),respectively.This study also indicated that knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices related to breast cancer are significantly higher among participants with FH of breast diseases compared to those without HF breast diseases.CONCLUSION Educational status,monthly income,and community health insurance were identified as significant factors associated with the levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices regarding breast cancer among reproductive-age females.
文摘Stromal vascular fraction(SVF)is a complex mixture derived from adipose tissue,consisting of a variety of cells.Due to its potential for tissue repair,immunomod-ulation,and support of angiogenesis,SVF represents a promising frontier in regenerative medicine and offers potential therapy for a range of disease condi-tions.In this article,we delve into the mechanisms through which SVF exerts its effects and explore its potential applications in treating both male and female reproductive disorders,including erectile dysfunction,testicular injury,stress urinary incontinence and intrauterine adhesion.
基金supported by the Guangdong Provincial Key Area Research and Development Program[grant number 2022B0202090002]China Postdoctoral Science Foundation[grant number 2024M760977].
文摘Background Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid(GenX),a substitute for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances,has been widely detected in various environmental matrices and foods recently,attracting great attention.However,a systematic characterization of its reproductive toxicity is still missing.This study aims to explore the male reproductive toxicity caused by GenX exposure and the potential cellular and molecular regulatory mechanisms behind it.Results Normally developing mice were exposed to GenX,and testicular tissue was subsequently analyzed and validated using single-cell RNA sequencing.Our results revealed that GenX induced severe testicular damage,disrupted the balance between undifferentiated and differentiated spermatogonial stem cells,and led to strong variation in the cellular dynamics of spermatogenesis.Furthermore,GenX exposure caused global upregulation of testicular somatic cellular inflammatory responses,increased abnormal macrophage differentiation,and attenuated fibroblast adhesion,disorganizing the somatic-germline interactions.Conclusions In conclusion,this study revealed complex cellular dynamics and transcriptome changes in mouse testis after GenX exposure,providing a valuable resource for understanding its reproductive toxicity.
文摘This is a correction to:Isabela R R Moraes,Mariana Antunes,Laura S Lopez-Greco,Fernando Jose Zara,Antonio Leao Castilho,Functional reproductive morphology of the snapping shrimp genus Synalpheus Spence Bate,1888(Decapoda,Alpheidae),Current Zoology,2024,71,338-352;https:/doi.org/10.1093/cz/zoae053.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)to Jiafu Hu(grant no.32371892,31670652,and 31870633)Hudie Shao(grant no.32401591).
文摘Studying the reproductive system of the pine wood nematode,Bursaphelenchus xylophilus(Steiner&Buhrer)Nickle,will identify its characteristics and life cycle.This is crucial for developing more targeted control strategies.In this study,the development of the gonads and reproductive organs were observed using microscopy,gonad dissection,and DAPI staining techniques.Second-stage juveniles(J2)had gonads composed of four primordial germ cells(Z1,Z2,Z3,and Z4)that form the adult gonads by proliferation within 72 h at 25℃.There were subtle differences in somatic gonad cell morphology between males and females,which developed from Z1 and Z4 in third-stage juveniles(J3).These differences became more pronounced at fourth-stage juveniles(J4)and adult stages.Z2 and Z3 germ cells underwent mitosis and two rounds of meiosis,ultimately developing into male and female gametes.Female vulval precursor cells and male cloacal cells developed rapidly during the J4 stage.These results provide a basis for identifying the expression sites and biological functions of key genes regulating reproductive system development.Based on this,in situ hybridization and RNA interference(RNAi)were used to determine the function of the Bxy-glp-1 gene to show that it is involved in vulval formation and spermatogenesis.The results of this study will lay the foundation for disrupting critical stages in the reproduction of B.xylophilus.
文摘Background: Diabetes is a set of metabolic abnormalities typified by hyperglycemia believed to be associated with aberrant insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Erectile dysfunction and infertility are globally prevalent complications among male diabetic patients. There is a need to understand the role of a male reproductive hormone in the etiology of infertility in diabetic patients. Objective: This study aims to determine the effect of diabetes mellitus on the Male reproductive hormone (testosterone) on diabetic patients attending the Urology unit of Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria and the effect of industrial sugar consumption in rats model. Materials and Methods: 30 samples (including repeats, n = 3) were collected from known diabetic patients and 30 (including repeats, n = 3) control-non diabetic healthy individuals. Five millilitres (5 ml) of blood was collected from the antecubital vein of each participant and placed into a plain container for serum testosterone measurement using the enzyme-linked immunoassay technique. Blood was also collected from the same subjects in a fluoride oxalate container for plasma enzymatic glucose estimation using a Randox Glucose oxidase kit. For in vivo rat model, the albino rats were grouped into 2 of five (5) rats. The control group (1) was only given normal rat food and water while the test group (2) was treated with 0.4 g of industrial sugar/mL/body weight in addition to rat food and water via oral intubation for 21 days. Blood samples were collected via ocular puncture into plain tubes for testosterone measurement as described above. Results: There is a significant (p Conclusion: In conclusion, data available from this study suggests that increased plasma glucose levels and excessive industrial sugar consumption are associated with decreased testosterone levels in both human and animal models respectively. The mechanism is yet unclear but it could be that DM alters conventional sperm parameters, spermatogenesis, and biosynthesis of testosterone and induces degenerative changes in the testis and epididymis and ejaculatory dysfunction. These mechanisms need to be investigated.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32072749)。
文摘The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effect and mechanism of quercetin on reproductive performance in perinatal sows.According to the similar principle of parity and body weight,24 perinatal sows were randomly divided into four treatments with six replicates,including normal control and three treatments fed by a basal diet supplemented with 0,0.025%,0.050%,and 0.075%quercetin,respectively.The feeding trial was conducted from 100 days of gestation to 28 days post-partum.Reproductive performance,colostrum composition,serum indexes of antioxidation,inflammation,hormones,and the diversity and relative abundance of fecal microflora were determined in perinatal sows.Compared with the control,quercetin significantly reduced the rate of constipation,serum content of malondialdehyde(MDA),prolactin(PRL),and progesterone(PROG),and significantly increased the content of serum estradiol(E2)and insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1)in colostrum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).Meanwhile,0.025%quercetin significantly increased glutathione(GSH)content in serum(P<0.05),0.050%quercetin significantly reduced the rate of backfat loss(P<0.05),and 0.075%quercetin significantly increased immunoglobulin M(IgM)content in colostrum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).In addition,0.050%and 0.075%quercetin significantly shortened estrus interval(P<0.05)and significantly increased the content of IgA and IgG in colostrum(P<0.05)and dopamine(DA)content in serum of perinatal sows(P<0.05).Quercetin significantly decreased the content of nitric oxide(NO),IL-1β,IL-6,TNF-α,and MCP-1 in serum(P<0.05)and significantly improved microflora abundance and diversity in feces of perinatal sows(P<0.05).In conclusion,dietary supplementation of quercetin reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and regulated intestinal microflora in perinatal sows,thus improved reproductive performance in perinatal sows.Under this experimental condition,the optimal supplementation with dietary quercetin was 0.075%in perinatal sows.
文摘Individual phenological life-history variations in the context of seasonal conditions are well documented in fshes and birds.However,amphibians,a group heavily affected by habitat loss and fragmentation,have received relatively little attention regarding research on life-history adaptations.Here we present 3 years of data on the timing of reproductive activity in a suburban European green toad(Bufotes viridis)population.We found annually consistent patterns of reproductive activity and investigated whether these were caused by allochrony or individual attributes.Body size(a proxy for age),body condition,and sex signifcantly affected the timing of reproductive activity.However,most individuals showed considerable overlap in their reproductive timeframe,refuting the existence of allochronic subpopulations.Our fndings may indicate life-history adaptations in the direction of a faster lifestyle in response to hazardous environments.We propose to focus further research efforts on phenological variations in the context of environmental conditions,and that phenological variations should be considered more strongly in amphibian conservation efforts.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82374510)the General Scientific Research Project of the Education Department of Zhejiang Province(No.Y202455593),China.
文摘Citrus,which has been consumed internationally for a long time,is widely used as a health food.Citrus and its active components exert significant effects on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism,which are closely associated with female reproductive health.Studies suggest that citrus-derived compounds may alleviate oxidative stress by activating signaling pathways such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)and Sirtuin 1(SIRT1),and improve lipid metabolism through the activation of pathways such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorα(PPARα).This review focuses on the effects of Citrus on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism,aiming to provide new insights for promoting female reproductive health;however,further work is needed to elucidate the mechanisms involved and validate the therapeutic potential of Citrus’s bioactive components in clinical settings.
基金support by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32170241,32160054,and 32470241)supported by the Chinese Academy of Science's PIFI Fellowship Initiative(2024PVC0046).
文摘Plants and their interaction partners offer unparalleled views of evolutionary ecology.Nectar larceny,entailing nectar extraction without pollinating,is thought to be an example of a harmful,antagonistic behavior,but the precise consequences of floral larceny on plant reproductive success remain contentious.We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of 153 studies across 120 plant species,using 14 moderators to assess the effects of floral larceny on plant reproductive success and examine the key moderators.We found that floral larceny negatively impacts flower traits,pollinator visitation,pollen deposition,and fruit set,while having a neutral effect on critical female fitness indicators,such as seed set and seed quality,as well as on male fitness.By altering pollinator behavior,floral larceny may reduce geitonogamy,potentially enhancing genetic diversity.Additionally,factors such as pollinator type,plant mating system,and pollen limitation were identified as key moderators of these effects.Our analysis reveals an ultimately neutral effect of floral larceny on plant reproductive success,with potential benefits in certain contexts.These findings suggest that floral larceny plays a complex and multifaceted role within plant-pollinator interactions,facilitating the evolutionary stability and coexistence of floral larcenists and host plants.
基金financially supported by the Natural Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFD2301500)。
文摘Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.Enhancing reproductive drought tolerance in maize requires elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying its response to drought stress,which can then be incorporated into the development of new maize varieties through breeding programs.Additionally,innovative cultivation practices must be devised to complement these genetic improvements.In this review,the timing,duration,and severity of drought stress during the reproductive stage and their effects on maize kernel set are assessed,providing a basis for constructing a framework that links kernel setting to drought stress.Based on this framework,reproductive drought tolerance from tasseling through post-fertilization kernel establishment is subsequently examined.Evidence indicates that drought-induced fertilization failure is primarily due to delayed pollination resulting from slower silk elongation,which is caused by the loss of cell turgor and reduced carbon supply.Meanwhile,kernel abortion after fertilization is mainly triggered by carbohydrate starvation,increased ethylene emission,and the accumulation of abscisic acid(ABA).Therefore,sugar metabolism,hydraulic status,and hormone signaling collectively regulate maize's kernel setting tolerance to drought stress in a synergistic manner.Several novel gene candidates with potential for conferring drought tolerance in maize have been identified,offering promising targets for genetic improvement through genome editing combined with targeted cultivation practices to enhance maize drought tolerance and ensure stable grain yield in future crops.
基金supported by two grants:the Ministry of Education and Culture,Finland Seed Funding–Finland-China Food and Health Network(FCFH)2023,University of Eastern Finlandand the Scientific Research Foundation of Zhejiang A&F University,China(Grant No.:2023CFR008).
文摘Microplastics and nanoplastics(MPs/NPs)are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals(EDCs),raising significant concerns about their impact on human health.Research highlights the hazardous effects of MPs/NPs on both male and female reproductive systems,influencing germ cells,embryo development,and progeny.Additionally,studies show that MPs/NPs affect the gene expression of anabolic steroid hormones in vitro and in vivo,inducing reproductive toxicity through mechanisms such as oxidative stress and inflammation.Considering these adverse effects,identifying natural compounds that can mitigate the toxicity of MPs/NPs is increasingly important.Plants offer a wealth of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can counteract these harmful effects.Among these,anthocyanins,natural colorants responsible for the vibrant hues of fruits and flowers,exhibit a wide range of biological activities,including antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-neoplastic properties.Moreover,anthocyanins can modulate sex hormone levels and alleviate reproductive toxicity.Cyanidin-3-glucoside(C3G),one of the most extensively studied anthocyanins,shows promise in reducing reproductive toxicity,particularly in females,and in protecting male reproductive organs,including the testis and epididymis.This protective effect is believed to result from its interaction with steroid receptors,specifically the androgen and estrogen receptors(ERs).These findings highlight the need to explore the mechanisms by which anthocyanins mitigate the reproductive toxicity caused by MPs/NPs.This review provides novel insights into how natural compounds can be leveraged to lessen the impact of environmental contaminants on human health,especially concerning reproductive health.
文摘Animal coloration has a wide range of biological functions and may be subject to different,sometimes conficting,selective pressures.In crustaceans,the evolution of coloration is relatively unstudied,despite the broad range of colors and color patterns,which includes variability at multiple levels.Freshwater crayfsh are known to show color variability within species and populations,as well as intra-individual variability,but thefunction,if any,of crayfsh coloration is largely unknown.Here,I report on an experiment to understand patterns of color variability in the crayfsh Faxonius virilis and show that variation is strongly correlated to ontogenetic changes from a summer non-reproductive form to a fall reproductiveform.Crayfsh showed comparatively little inter-and intra-individual color variation in their non-reproductive form,but substantial variation at bothlevels in the reproductive form.Transition to the reproductive form was associated with the development of greener or bluer coloration localizedto the chelae on a subset of individuals,but these changes showed no clear correlation with sex or body size.Future investigations should focuson determining whether differences in color between individuals in the mating season are associated with any physiological or behavioral differences,or with differential susceptibility to predation.
基金supported by Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(226-2024-00080)Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation Program of China(LZ25C170001)+2 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(32372889,U21A20249)China Agriculture Research System(CARS-35)National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs。
文摘Background Compelling evidence has established a strong link between the gut microbiota and host reproductive health.However,the specific regulatory roles of individual bacterial species on reproductive performance are not well-understood.In the present study,Jinhua sows with varying reproductive performances under the same diet and management conditions were selected to explore potential mechanisms on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and host reproductive performance using 16S rRNA sequencing,metagenomics and serum metabolomics.Results Our findings revealed that the KEGG pathways for base excision repair and DNA replication were enriched,along with gene-level enhancements in spore formation,in sows with higher reproductive performance,indicating that the gut microbiome experiences stress.Further analysis showed a positive correlation between these changes and litter size,indicating that the host acts as a stressor,reshaping the microbiome.This adaptation allows the intestinal microbes in sows with high reproductive performance to enrich specific serotonin-related bacteria,such as Oxalobacter formigenes,Ruminococcus sp.CAG 382,Clostridium leptum,and Clostridium botulinum.Subsequently,the enriched microbiota may promote host serotonin production,which is positively correlated with reproductive performance in our study,known to regulate follicle survival and oocyte maturation.Conclusion Our study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the interactions between gut microbes and the host.It highlights new insights into reassembling gut microbiota in sows with higher litter sizes and the role of serotonin-related microbiota and serotonin in fertility.
文摘The rapidly evolving environment of assisted reproductive technology(ART)requires consideration of how new innovations are reshaping clinical practice as much as research.In particular,there are three key areas that,while full of promise,also present significant challenges:the use of artificial intelligence(AI)in embryo selection,the impact of personalized medicine on ART success rates,and the ethical considerations of genetic screening of embryos[1].This letter is meant to provoke further discussion and highlight the need for harmonized global guidelines as these advances continue to reshape the reproductive medicine environment.
文摘The objective of this study was to characterize the rumination time in lactating dairy cows fed with corn silage.Rumination time was recorded 24 h/day using direct visual observation.Six trials were conducted during 2018,2019 and 2020,and rumination time was recorded in 480-2-hour periods from 40 Holstein Friesian cows.In each trial,6 or 8 cows were selected and balanced for days in milk(DIM),milk production and number of lactations.Each cow was recorded continuously for periods of 2 h at a time to complete a full 24-h period per week(12 values per day).Data from all cows were associated with 4 reproductive statuses of cows:Inseminated(1-45 days after insemination),Open(45-150 days after calving),not-pregnant and pregnant.The longest rumination time(RT)was found in pregnant cows(average 536.9±29.87 min/day),and the shortest RT was in open cows(average 420.3±63.2 min/day).Inseminated and non-pregnant cows were found with intermediate values(527.3±82.4 min/day and 467.1±30.7 respectively).Significantly different RT means were found between pregnant and open cows(p<0.0001),pregnant vs.inseminated cows(p<0.0001),and between inseminated and open cows(p=0.0005).We concluded that some gynecological conditions of lactating cows affect the RT.Measurement of RT by visual observations proved to be acceptable for the conditions of this study when cows were housed indoors and were fed with partial mixed ration(PMR)based on corn silage.
