Elaeagnaceae Juss. belongs to the family Elaeagnus L. and Shepherdia Nutt. This study aims at the significance and vegetative reproduction of species of the family (Elaeagnus macrophylla Thunb. and Shepherdia canadens...Elaeagnaceae Juss. belongs to the family Elaeagnus L. and Shepherdia Nutt. This study aims at the significance and vegetative reproduction of species of the family (Elaeagnus macrophylla Thunb. and Shepherdia canadensis (L.) Nutt.) in the national economy. The trials were carried out in the experimental site of SamSU’s Botanic Garden, which is named after Sharof Rashidov. The study’s findings are based on the results obtained by planting cuttings of S. canadensis and E. macrophylla species of varying sizes and durations, as well as the cuttings’ roots and the impacts of growth chemicals.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 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
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
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
Variation in the vocal behavior of nonhuman vertebrates includes graded transitions and more dramatic changes.Wapiti males produce a reproductive bugle that has a fundamental frequency that surpasses 2,000 Hz with evi...Variation in the vocal behavior of nonhuman vertebrates includes graded transitions and more dramatic changes.Wapiti males produce a reproductive bugle that has a fundamental frequency that surpasses 2,000 Hz with evidence of biphonation and other nonlinear phenomena.Here,we analyze the acoustic structure of captive wapiti vocalizations to compare the male bugle with 3 categories of distress vocalizations:neonate distress(capture)calls,calf isolation calls,and adult female isolation calls.These 4 high-arousal call categories serve a common general function in recruiting conspecifics but occur in different behavioral contexts(capture,isolation,reproduction).Our goal was to distinguish characteristics that vary in graded steps that may correspond to an animal’s age or size from characteristics that are unique to the bugle.Characteristics of the high and loud fundamental(G0)varied in an age/size-graded manner with a decrease in minimum G0,an increase in the maximum and range of G0,with no evidence of sex differences.The nonlinear phenomena of deterministic chaos,biphonation,and frequency jumps were present in all 4 call categories and became more common from the distress vocalizations of neonates to calves to adult females to the male bugle.Two temporal characteristics sharply distinguished the bugle from the 3 categories of distress vocalizations:these included a prolonged call duration and a maximum G0 that occurred much later in the call for the bugle than for distress vocalizations.Our results suggest that distress vocalizations of different age groups and the reproductive bugle of wapiti share a high G0,with age/size-graded changes in G0 and nonlinear phenomena,but differ sharply in temporal characteristics.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 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
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
Antarctic krill(Euphausia superba)is a keystone species in the Southern Ocean;however,seasonal variations in reproductive development for krill are complex and remains unknown.A histological investigation with observa...Antarctic krill(Euphausia superba)is a keystone species in the Southern Ocean;however,seasonal variations in reproductive development for krill are complex and remains unknown.A histological investigation with observations of external secondary sex features of krill in the south Scotia Sea region was carried out using a multi-seasonal dataset for detail reproductive descriptions for this commercially important species.The monthly development of secondary sexual characteristics,the thelycum,as well as of oocytes over a period of two years were described.It was observed that krill have diverse reproductive development characteristics within the ovary,and that this function differently between the juvenile,sub-adult,and adult stages.During the summer,adult krill ovaries are large and ripe with oocytes rich in yolk ready for release in late summer.Post spawning,the ovaries resorb,fragment,and regress throughout the autumn and winter.During reproductive diapause period,krill focus on absorbing nutrients.Un-released eggs are reabsorbed by the ovary,the permanent germinal zone is active,and early oocytes begin to develop in preparation for the egg production phase.Krill that are about to spawn have an ovary that fills the space between the digestive gland and muscle.The ovarian development of krill is divided into 10 sexual developmental stages.As a part of this study,data on the carapace thickness with similar development patterns in krill size and carapace width,was investigated for the first time to help understand krill growth and development.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
Shrimps of the genus Synalpheus(Caridea)are commonly found in subtropical and tropical marine habitats around the world.The present work aims to provide the first description of the reproductive system of this genus u...Shrimps of the genus Synalpheus(Caridea)are commonly found in subtropical and tropical marine habitats around the world.The present work aims to provide the first description of the reproductive system of this genus using histological,histochemical,and morphological perspectives to elucidate the gonochoric or hermaphrodite sexual system in this genus.Males have a slender and very translucent reproductive system that is challenging to observe.The entire cephalothorax was histologically sectioned to ensure that all regions of the reproductive system could be identified.This non-gambarelloides group shows a gonochoric condition.The caridean pattern of the reproductive system was observed where the male has a pair of testes and a pair of very thin vasa deferentia,ending at the opening of the gonopore.Spermatophore structure is absent,without any layers surrounding the spermatozoa that are aggregated in a sperm mass.In females,the reproductive system consists of a pair of ovaries that extend to the end of the pleon.The extension of the ovary has a particular pattern compared to other caridean shrimps.Here,we hypothesize that males invest energy on somatic morphological structures to protect the host and female,using the larger pistol-like cheliped,while females invest energy in reproduction since all the members of this group are typical"pair-bond"examples.The observed pattern of the reproductive male morphology could also be evidence of a possible synapomorphy for this genus within theinfraorder.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
Objective:To evaluate the antioxidant activity of Kaempferia(K.)parviflora rhizome extract and study its protective effect against male reproductive impairment induced by fenitrothion.Methods:The phytochemicals and an...Objective:To evaluate the antioxidant activity of Kaempferia(K.)parviflora rhizome extract and study its protective effect against male reproductive impairment induced by fenitrothion.Methods:The phytochemicals and antioxidant properties of K.parviflora ethanolic extract were assessed.Twenty-four male mice aged 4-weeks-old were assigned into four groups.Groups 1 to 4 respectively received extra virgin olive oil(served as the vehicle control),20 mg/kg body weight(bw)of fenitrothion,50 mg/kg bw of K.parviflora ethanolic extract,and 50 mg/kg bw of K.parviflora ethanolic extract plus 20 mg/kg bw of fenitrothion.Upon completion of 28 days of continuous feeding treatment,the mice were subjected to mating evaluation and the assessment of epididymal sperm quality,lipid peroxidation,testosterone level and histological evaluation.Results:Eight phytochemical compounds were detected in the ethanolic extract of K.parviflora via GC-MS.The extract exhibited a DPPH radical scavenging activity with an EC50 value of(0.870±0.007)mg/mL.Mice fed with fenitrothion in group 2 displayed an increase in relative testis weight,lipid peroxidation levels and a significant reduction in all sperm parameters(sperm concentration,progressive motility,and viability),as well as serum testosterone levels compared to the control mice in group 1(P<0.05).On the other hand,mice fed with K.parviflora ethanolic extract in group 3 showed a significant increase in serum testosterone levels compared to group 1.Mice co-administered with K.parviflora ethanolic extract and fenitrothion in group 4 exhibited a significant improvement in testosterone levels,sperm concentration,motility,and viability compared to the mice administered only with fenitrothion in group 2(P<0.05).Histological analysis of testicular tissue from group 4 further revealed improved testicular morphology in comparison to fenitrothion-treated mice.Conclusions:Eight bioactive compounds were identified in K.parviflora ethanolic extract and the extract exhibited antioxidative properties.Fenitrothion administration impairs testicular function,reducing sperm parameters and testosterone while increasing lipid peroxidation.However,K.parviflora ethanolic extract coadministration alleviates oxidative stress,improves sperm parameters and testosterone levels,and enhances testicular morphology.These findings suggest that K.parviflora ethanolic extract has the therapeutic potential in mitigating male reproductive adverse effects induced by fenitrothion.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
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
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
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
文摘Elaeagnaceae Juss. belongs to the family Elaeagnus L. and Shepherdia Nutt. This study aims at the significance and vegetative reproduction of species of the family (Elaeagnus macrophylla Thunb. and Shepherdia canadensis (L.) Nutt.) in the national economy. The trials were carried out in the experimental site of SamSU’s Botanic Garden, which is named after Sharof Rashidov. The study’s findings are based on the results obtained by planting cuttings of S. canadensis and E. macrophylla species of varying sizes and durations, as well as the cuttings’ roots and the impacts of growth chemicals.
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.
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.
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.
基金The University of Winnipeg and The University of Winnipeg Foundation contributed funding to this research.
文摘Variation in the vocal behavior of nonhuman vertebrates includes graded transitions and more dramatic changes.Wapiti males produce a reproductive bugle that has a fundamental frequency that surpasses 2,000 Hz with evidence of biphonation and other nonlinear phenomena.Here,we analyze the acoustic structure of captive wapiti vocalizations to compare the male bugle with 3 categories of distress vocalizations:neonate distress(capture)calls,calf isolation calls,and adult female isolation calls.These 4 high-arousal call categories serve a common general function in recruiting conspecifics but occur in different behavioral contexts(capture,isolation,reproduction).Our goal was to distinguish characteristics that vary in graded steps that may correspond to an animal’s age or size from characteristics that are unique to the bugle.Characteristics of the high and loud fundamental(G0)varied in an age/size-graded manner with a decrease in minimum G0,an increase in the maximum and range of G0,with no evidence of sex differences.The nonlinear phenomena of deterministic chaos,biphonation,and frequency jumps were present in all 4 call categories and became more common from the distress vocalizations of neonates to calves to adult females to the male bugle.Two temporal characteristics sharply distinguished the bugle from the 3 categories of distress vocalizations:these included a prolonged call duration and a maximum G0 that occurred much later in the call for the bugle than for distress vocalizations.Our results suggest that distress vocalizations of different age groups and the reproductive bugle of wapiti share a high G0,with age/size-graded changes in G0 and nonlinear phenomena,but differ sharply in temporal characteristics.
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(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).
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.
基金Supported by the Inter-governmental Science and Technology Innovation(STI)Cooperation Special Program of the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFE0104500)the NIWA-SHOU-Otago Joint Research Center on Antarctic Marine Science。
文摘Antarctic krill(Euphausia superba)is a keystone species in the Southern Ocean;however,seasonal variations in reproductive development for krill are complex and remains unknown.A histological investigation with observations of external secondary sex features of krill in the south Scotia Sea region was carried out using a multi-seasonal dataset for detail reproductive descriptions for this commercially important species.The monthly development of secondary sexual characteristics,the thelycum,as well as of oocytes over a period of two years were described.It was observed that krill have diverse reproductive development characteristics within the ovary,and that this function differently between the juvenile,sub-adult,and adult stages.During the summer,adult krill ovaries are large and ripe with oocytes rich in yolk ready for release in late summer.Post spawning,the ovaries resorb,fragment,and regress throughout the autumn and winter.During reproductive diapause period,krill focus on absorbing nutrients.Un-released eggs are reabsorbed by the ovary,the permanent germinal zone is active,and early oocytes begin to develop in preparation for the egg production phase.Krill that are about to spawn have an ovary that fills the space between the digestive gland and muscle.The ovarian development of krill is divided into 10 sexual developmental stages.As a part of this study,data on the carapace thickness with similar development patterns in krill size and carapace width,was investigated for the first time to help understand krill growth and development.
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I.R.R.M.andA.L.C.were fundedby"Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico"(CNPQ grantPQ311034/2018-7)"Coordenacaode Aperfeicoamento deNivelSuperior-CAPES,Brazil(CAPES PRINT 88881.310767/2018-01,CAPES PROEX 23038.000802/2018-25)+2 种基金FJ.Z.would like to thank the laboratory support provided by the_Sao Paulo Research Foundation-FAPESP(JP#2005/04707-5 and Biota Intercrusta#2018/13685-5)CAPES-Ciencias do Mar II program(grant#1989/2014,23038.004309/2014-51)CNPq Research Scholarship(PQ2#309298-2020-2,PQ1D#308324/2023-4),and CNPq PPBio 2023/0723.
文摘Shrimps of the genus Synalpheus(Caridea)are commonly found in subtropical and tropical marine habitats around the world.The present work aims to provide the first description of the reproductive system of this genus using histological,histochemical,and morphological perspectives to elucidate the gonochoric or hermaphrodite sexual system in this genus.Males have a slender and very translucent reproductive system that is challenging to observe.The entire cephalothorax was histologically sectioned to ensure that all regions of the reproductive system could be identified.This non-gambarelloides group shows a gonochoric condition.The caridean pattern of the reproductive system was observed where the male has a pair of testes and a pair of very thin vasa deferentia,ending at the opening of the gonopore.Spermatophore structure is absent,without any layers surrounding the spermatozoa that are aggregated in a sperm mass.In females,the reproductive system consists of a pair of ovaries that extend to the end of the pleon.The extension of the ovary has a particular pattern compared to other caridean shrimps.Here,we hypothesize that males invest energy on somatic morphological structures to protect the host and female,using the larger pistol-like cheliped,while females invest energy in reproduction since all the members of this group are typical"pair-bond"examples.The observed pattern of the reproductive male morphology could also be evidence of a possible synapomorphy for this genus within theinfraorder.
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.
基金supported by Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman(UTAR)Research Fund(IPSR/RMC/UTARRF 2021-C2/40).
文摘Objective:To evaluate the antioxidant activity of Kaempferia(K.)parviflora rhizome extract and study its protective effect against male reproductive impairment induced by fenitrothion.Methods:The phytochemicals and antioxidant properties of K.parviflora ethanolic extract were assessed.Twenty-four male mice aged 4-weeks-old were assigned into four groups.Groups 1 to 4 respectively received extra virgin olive oil(served as the vehicle control),20 mg/kg body weight(bw)of fenitrothion,50 mg/kg bw of K.parviflora ethanolic extract,and 50 mg/kg bw of K.parviflora ethanolic extract plus 20 mg/kg bw of fenitrothion.Upon completion of 28 days of continuous feeding treatment,the mice were subjected to mating evaluation and the assessment of epididymal sperm quality,lipid peroxidation,testosterone level and histological evaluation.Results:Eight phytochemical compounds were detected in the ethanolic extract of K.parviflora via GC-MS.The extract exhibited a DPPH radical scavenging activity with an EC50 value of(0.870±0.007)mg/mL.Mice fed with fenitrothion in group 2 displayed an increase in relative testis weight,lipid peroxidation levels and a significant reduction in all sperm parameters(sperm concentration,progressive motility,and viability),as well as serum testosterone levels compared to the control mice in group 1(P<0.05).On the other hand,mice fed with K.parviflora ethanolic extract in group 3 showed a significant increase in serum testosterone levels compared to group 1.Mice co-administered with K.parviflora ethanolic extract and fenitrothion in group 4 exhibited a significant improvement in testosterone levels,sperm concentration,motility,and viability compared to the mice administered only with fenitrothion in group 2(P<0.05).Histological analysis of testicular tissue from group 4 further revealed improved testicular morphology in comparison to fenitrothion-treated mice.Conclusions:Eight bioactive compounds were identified in K.parviflora ethanolic extract and the extract exhibited antioxidative properties.Fenitrothion administration impairs testicular function,reducing sperm parameters and testosterone while increasing lipid peroxidation.However,K.parviflora ethanolic extract coadministration alleviates oxidative stress,improves sperm parameters and testosterone levels,and enhances testicular morphology.These findings suggest that K.parviflora ethanolic extract has the therapeutic potential in mitigating male reproductive adverse effects induced by fenitrothion.
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.
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 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.
