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Food and allied industries mainly contribute to the country's GDP. Among the food industries, the sugar industry plays a pivotal role in producing food and energy products. The present study aimed to assess carbon footprint based on a gate-to-gate life cycle assessment approach and identify the hotspots of greenhouse gas emissions to promote carbon neutrality. The estimated carbon footprint for the selected sugar industry was 199.4 tonnes of CO2 eq per tonne of sugar produced, to which electricity was a significant contributor. The milling process is the most critical contributor (40.1%) to embodied energy, cost, and electricity consumption in the sugar process, followed by cane fibrizers (21%) and Juice heaters (12.1%) stages. The embodied energy consumption for the sugar product is 49,052,795.75 MJ/tonne, and the total greenhouse gas emissions per tonne of sugar produced is 10,452,103. Based on the assessment, short and long-term goals are suggested to reduce the carbon footprint and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in the sugar industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sperm biomolecules impact the reproductive success of a bull in many ways from fertilization to the health of the offspring. The energy produced within the sperm enables them to remain motile and allows them to participate in fertilization events. In this study, we deciphered the genes associated with energy production and their influence on the fertility rate. Post-thaw buffalo semen samples (n=21) were analysed for sperm kinematics and field fertility for selecting high (n=5) and low (n=5) fertile samples. Sperm total RNAs were extracted using a double lysis method followed by column-based extraction and sequenced using the Illumina platform. The expression levels of the genes involved in energy-regulating pathways were analyzed. Among these genes, 14.6% were significantly (p<0.05) differentially expressed between high and low fertile sperm. The expression levels of up-regulated genes such as JAK3, DDX5, PRKCZ, CHD4, CHD5, and ADCY3 had a strong positive correlation (r>0.5) with progressive motility and velocities. The up-regulated genes were involved in chemokine signaling (ADCY2 and JAK2, p=0.0001), calcium signaling (AGTR1 and SLC25A4,p=0.0002) and oocyte meiosis (ADCY2 and ADCY3, p=0.049). The increase in the expression of ATP-producing genes substantiate the improved progressive motility (64.51±5.79 vs 33.07±3.34 %), curvilinear velocity (70.58±4.32 vs 50.15±4.92 μm/sec), straight-line velocity (39.84±3.16 vs 26.02±2.52 μm/sec) and average path velocity (49.46±3.59 vs 32.99±3.45 μm/sec) in high fertile bulls compared to low fertile bulls. The study suggests that the expression level of differentially expressed genes associated with energy-regulating pathways influences the fertilizing ability of sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruthenium arene-based complexes have attracted growing interest in overcoming the lack of efficiency of platinum-based chemotherapeutic drugs. Herein, we prepared two pyrazolyl-pyridine type bidentate ligands using 2-acetyl pyridine with biphenyl-4-carbaldehyde and 1-pyrene carbaldehyde. The isolated ligands were utilized to prepare two new Ru(p-cymene) complexes, [Ru(η6-p-cymene)(bpy)Cl]PF6 (Ru-bpy(1)) and [Ru(η6 -p-cymene)(pyn)Cl]PF6 (Ru-pyn(2)) and characterized well. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of Ru-bpy(1) revealed that the complex adopts pseudo-octahedral geometry. The MTT assay was performed on human breast carcinoma (MCF-7), cervical carcinoma (HeLa-S3) and lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells to determine the in vitro cytotoxicity of the complexes. Although the complexes were found to be insensitive to cervical and lung cancer cells at concentrations of up to 100 μM, both the complexes showed efficient cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells. Moreover, these complexes exhibited apoptosis-inducing activity and cell-free antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions between proteins are vital in almost all biological processes. The characterization of protein–protein interactions helps us understand the mechanistic basis of biological processes, thereby enabling the manipulation of proteins for biotechnological and clinical purposes. The interface residues of a protein–protein complex are assumed to have the following two properties: (a) they always interact with a residue of a partner protein, which forms the basis for distance‐based interface residue identification methods, and (b) they are solvent‐exposed in the isolated form of the protein and become buried in the complex form, which forms the basis for Accessible Surface Area (ASA)‐based methods. The study interrogates this popular assumption by recognizing interface residues in protein–protein complexes through these two methods. The results show that a few residues are identified uniquely by each method, and the extent of conservation, propensities, and their contribution to the stability of protein–protein interaction varies substantially between these residues. The case study analyses showed that interface residues, unique to distance, participate in crucial interactions that hold the proteins together, whereas the interface residues unique to the ASA method have a potential role in the recognition, dynamics, and specificity of the complex and can also be a hotspot. Overall, the study recommends applying both distance and ASA methods so that some interface residues missed by either method but crucial to the stability, recognition, dynamics, and function of protein–protein complexes are identified in a complementary manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minerals are required in small amounts but play significant roles in many physiological functions related with growth, reproduction, and health of goats such as biochemical, molecular systems, and optimized enzymatic activities due to their roles as co-factors to metalloenzymes. Among them, zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) are leading essential elements in goat nutrition, because of their role across several biological functions. The proportion of these minerals availability and absorption from the ingested feed is usually less, because of their complexities with un-degradable parts of feed resources. Hence, their exogenous supplementation is required for normal animal functions. On this background, this review presents findings associated with supplementation of these minerals in organic form as a way for improving the fertility of male goats with special focus on physico-chemical-kinetics of the semen for improving the application of reproductive technologies. This review emphasizes the organic sources of these minerals to replace the inorganic sources, based on their significance in improving semen qualities, antioxidant protection, and mediation of molecular activities. This review also discusses salient routes of Zn and Cu absorption and identifies the need for molecular exploration for positive outcomes with supplementation of these minerals as an area of the future goat nutrition-reproduction improvement strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of dietary calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) supplementation on serum biochemical parameters, steroid hormones, gene expression, and the sex ratio was investigated in female New Zealand white rabbits. A total of 25 rabbits were allocated into five treatment groups: The control group was fed with regular pellet feed, whereas, treatment groups were supplemented with Ca and Mg: T1 (0.40% and 0.01%), T2 (0.60% and 0.02%), T3 (0.80% and 0.03%) and T4 (1.00% and 0.04%), respectively. The rabbits were subjected to three breeding cycles. The T3 group skewed towards females (65.33%) from all three breeding. There was elevated Ca concentration in T3 (15.26 ± 0.77 mg dL-1) and T4 (15.61 ± 0.82 mg dL-1) groups compared to the control. The concentration of estradiol was significantly high in T3 and T4 groups at 0.5 days post-coitus (dpc) and T2, T3 and T4 groups at 21dpc. Testosterone was significantly high in T4 group at 0.50 dpc and T2 and T4 group at 21dpc. The expression of 13 genes was studied in the oviduct. Genes such as OVGP1, CCT4, ANXA2 and TLR4 were upregulated and positively correlated with the female sex ratio. The molecular functions and pathways of up-regulated genes were suggestive of their role in fertilization such as sperm selection, sperm storage, immune regulation, implantation and early embryonic development. The variations in the serum electrolytes, steroid hormones and gene expression might have an impact on the skewing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess the influence of cryostress on RNA integrity and functional significance in sperm fertilizing ability. The fresh and post-thawed buffalo sperm (n = 6 each) samples were evaluated for their functional attributes, and sperm total RNA was subjected to transcriptome sequencing followed by validation using real-time PCR and dot blot. Overall, 6911 genes had an expression of FPKM > 1, and among these 431 genes were abundantly expressed (FPKM > 20) in buffalo sperm. These abundantly expressed genes regulate reproductive functions such as sperm motility (TEKT2, SPEM1, and PRM3, FDR = 1.10E-08), fertilization (EQTN, PLCZ1, and SPESP1, FDR = 7.25E-06) and the developmental process involved in reproduction (SPACA1, TNP1, and YBX2, FDR = 7.21E-06). Cryopreservation significantly (p < 0.05) affected the structural and functional membrane integrities of sperm. The expression levels of transcripts that regulate the metabolic activities and fertility-related functions were compromised during cryopreservation. Interestingly, cryostress induces the expression of genes involved (p < 0.05) in chemokine signaling (CX3CL1, CCL20, and CXCR4), G-protein coupled receptor binding (ADRB1, EDN1, and BRS3), translation (RPS28, MRPL28, and RPL18A), oxidative phosphorylation (ND1, ND2, and COX2), response to reactive oxygen species (GLRX2, HYAL2, and EDN1), and immune responses (CX3CL1, CCL26, and TBXA2R). These precociously expressed genes during cryopreservation alter the signaling mechanisms that govern sperm functional competence and can impact fertilization and early embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oxidative stress negatively impacts pregnancy and its outcomes; hence, its avoidance through gestational antioxidant intakes is a desired nutrition-reproduction practices. Materials and Methods: Female rabbits (n=40) were divided into 5 groups and supplemented with 0, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg Chlorella vulgaris biomass per kilogram body weight daily, respectively throughout the gestation period. Upon kindling, kits of the female rabbits (n=75) were randomly selected and monitored from birth till 120 days old. The reproductive performance of the female rabbits was evaluated by computation of their reproductive index, while birth weight, growth rate, oestrogen and testosterone concentrations, oxidative stress biomarkers, and expression of selected functional genes of the progeny were determined. Results: The gestational intake of Chlorella vulgaris increased reproductive index of the female rabbits (p < 0.05), and it also increases the growth and oxidative stress protection status of the rabbit progeny (p < 0.05). Selected functional genes, including Gstp1, Cyp1a1, Ar, Ghr, Il2, and Il6 assessed in the progeny of the supplemented groups were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded from these results that gestational Chlorella vulgaris biomass intake improved reproductive index of the female rabbits, increased growth and oxidative stress protection in their progeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral supplementation has greater impact on male reproduction; however, the mechanism of action has not been studied in detail. The present study was aimed to deal with the lacuna in mechanism of action of mineral supplementation on improvement in sperm characteristics. A group of 40 bucks (aged 5 months) were assigned to 10 groups (4 in each group) based on their body weight and fed with concentrate mixture: basal roughage (minimal diet) in equal proportion to all the bucks. Among the 10 groups, one was considered as control, without any additional mineral supplementation, and the remaining 9 were treatment groups (3 groups each in Zn, Cu, and Zn + Cu). In treatment groups, organic Zn was fed in three different doses as 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg DM; organic Cu was fed in three different doses as 12.5, 25, and 37.5 mg/kg DM; and organic Zn + Cu was combinedly supplied as 20 + 12.5, 40 + 25, and 60 + 37.5 based on their mg/kg DM for 8 months period. The neat semen samples were processed for spermatozoal gene (stress- NOS3, HSP70, HIF1A; fertility- MTF1, MTA1, TIMP2, TNFa, and EGFR) expression studies through qRT-PCR and protein profile changes through single- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Significantly, the stress-responsive genes were downregulated, and fertility-related genes were upregulated in treatment groups. A significant correlation had been noticed among the genes studied: HIF1A with MTA1 (P < 0.05) and MTF1 with EGFR, TIMP2, TNFa, and NOS3 (P < 0.01) respectively. The organic Zn and Cu feeding modulated the expression of stress- and fertility-related genes and protein abundance, thereby improved the sperm characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex pre-selection of the progeny to suit the livestock production system aids in greatly increasing the efficiency and profitability of the livestock enterprise to meet the demand for animal meat and dairy products. Individual animals can skew the sex ratio in response to various social and environmental stipulations. These social and environmental factors include the composition of the maternal diet, maternal hormonal levels, maternal stress, and the time of insemination. Hence, this present review focuses on these approaches and their success rate as premises for the alterations of offspring sex ratio in different animal species. Numerous studies have linked maternal nutrition and its influence on offspring sex ratio. A maternal diet rich in calcium and magnesium favoured the production of more females, while diets rich in sodium and potassium favoured more males. Furthermore, feeding animals with a particular type of fat diet, including omega-3, omega-6, or omega-9 fatty acids, assists in sex pre-selection. The circulating hormone level in females during conception is associated with the skewing of sex ratio. In addition, maternal stress during the conception period is also found to be associated with the skewing of the sex ratio in favour of female offspring. The timing of insemination relative to the ovulation period has been identified as a promising approach for the pre-selection of offspring sex; however, proper detection of oestrus is crucial. Among all the approaches reported, dietary manipulation could be regarded as the most affordable and stands a better chance of being optimised for commercial livestock production. Reduction in the cost of desired sex production by adopting sex pre-selection techniques will lead to the improvement of the economy and minimise the culling of the undesired sex. However, further research is necessary to focus on the understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms for the production of animals of the desired sex. Sex pre-selection is the key area of interest as it aids in greatly increasing the efficiency and profitability of the farmers and livestock enterprise. Sex pre-selection through maternal diet alteration is clearly a reliable and cost-effective approach to allow the livestock industry to control the sex ratio of their domesticated animals. However, elucidating the mechanism associated with the skewing of offspring sex ratio is necessary to study and understand in large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-protein assemblies are complex molecular systems that perform highly sophisticated biochemical functions in an orchestrated manner. They are subject to changes that are governed by the evolution of individual components. We performed a comparative analysis of the ancient and functionally conserved spliceosomal SF3b complex, to recognize molecular signatures that contribute to sequence divergence and functional specializations. For this, we recognized homologous sequences of individual SF3b proteins distributed across 10 supergroups of eukaryotes and identified all seven protein components of the complex in 578 eukaryotic species. Using sequence and structural analysis, we establish that proteins occurring on the surface of the SF3b complex harbor more sequence variation than the proteins that lie in the core. Further, we show through protein interface conservation patterns that the extent of conservation varies considerably between interacting partners. When we analyze phylogenetic distributions of individual components of the complex, we find that protein partners that are known to form independent subcomplexes are observed to share similar profiles, reaffirming the link between differential conservation of interface regions and their inter-dependence. When we extend our analysis to individual protein components of the complex, we find taxa-specific variability in molecular signatures of the proteins. These trends are discussed in the context of proline-rich motifs of SF3b4, functional and drug binding sites of SF3b1. Further, we report key protein-protein interactions between SF3b1 and SF3b6 whose presence is observed to be lineage-specific across eukaryotes. Together, our studies show the association of protein location within the complex and subcomplex formation patterns with the sequence conservation of SF3b proteins. In addition, our study underscores evolutionarily flexible elements that appear to confer adaptive features in individual components of the multi-protein SF3b complexes and may contribute to its functional adaptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of organic copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) supplementation on blood biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzyme properties in growing Osmanabadi goats at the onset of puberty and semen quality. Forty bucks (five months) were allocated randomly into ten groups, all were fed with basal roughage and a concentrate mixture (50 : 50) supplemented (for a period of 8 months) either with different doses of organic Zn : 20 mg (T1), 40 mg (T2), 60 mg (T3), organic Cu : 12.5 mg (T4), 25 mg (T5), 37.5 mg (T6) and combination of Cu + Zn: 12.5 mg + 20 mg (T7), 25 mg + 40 mg (T8), 37.5 mg + 60 mg (T9), respectively, per kg dry matter (DM) or fed without additional mineral supplementation (Control). Blood samples collected on days 120 and 240 of treatment for analysis oftotal protein; albumin; cholesterol; high density lipoprotein (HDL) and glucose as well as enzyme activities like Catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione reductase (GR) and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were analyzed and correlated with spermatozoa functional characteristics. Significantly increased (P<0.05) enzymatic activities at days 120 and 240 were observed with positive correlations to the spermatozoa functional characteristics and enzyme activities. Varying level ofalbumin, glucose, HDL and protein in Cu treated groups of the experiment. Cu supplementation affects protein, glucose, HDL and albumin levels in goats; and supplementation of both organic Zn and Cu significantly increased the antioxidant defense enzyme activities in goats with positive correlation to sperm functional attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are the source for the mature male gamete. SSC technology in humans is mainly focusing on preserving fertility in cancer patients. Whereas in livestock, it is used for mining the factors associated with male fertility. The review discusses the present status of SSC biology, methodologies developed for in vitro culture, and challenges ahead in establishing SSC technology for the propagation of superior germplasm with special reference to livestock. Method: Published literatures from PubMed and Google Scholar on topics of SSCs isolation, purification, characterization, short and long-term culture of SSCs, stemness maintenance, epigenetic modifications of SSCs, growth factors, and SSC cryopreservation and transplantation were used for the study. Result: The fine-tuning of SSC isolation and culture conditions with special reference to feeder cells, growth factors, and additives need to be refined for livestock. An insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in maintaining stemness and proliferation of SSCs could facilitate the dissemination of superior germplasm through transplantation and transgenesis. The epigenetic influence on the composition and expression of the biomolecules during in vitro differentiation of cultured cells is essential for sustaining fertility. The development of surrogate males through gene-editing will be historic achievement for the foothold of the SSCs technology. Conclusion: Detailed studies on the species-specific factors regulating the stemness and differentiation of the SSCs are required for the development of a long-term culture system and in vitro spermatogenesis in livestock. Epigenetic changes in the SSCs during in vitro culture have to be elucidated for the successful application of SSCs for improving the productivity of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptive ability of sperm in the female reproductive tract micromilieu signifies the successful fertilization process. The study aimed to analyze the preparedness of sperm to the prevailing osmotic and pH stressors in the female reproductive tract. Fresh bovine sperm were incubated in 290 (isosmotic-control), 355 (hyperosmotic-uterus and oviduct), and 420 (hyperosmotic-control) mOsm/kg and each with pH of 6.8 (uterus) and 7.4 (oviduct). During incubation, the changes in sperm functional attributes were studied. Sperm kinematics and head area decreased significantly (p < 0.05) immediately upon exposure to hyperosmotic stress at both pH. Proportion of sperm capacitated (%) in 355 mOsm/kg at 1 and 2 h of incubation were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those in 290 mOsm media. The magnitude and duration of recovery of sperm progressive motility in 355 mOsm with pH 7.4 was correlated with the ejaculate rejection rate (R2 = 0.7). Using this information, the bulls were divided into good (n = 5) and poor (n = 5) osmo-adapters. The osmo-responsive genes such as NFAT5, HSP90AB1, SLC9C1, ADAM1B and GAPDH were upregulated (p < 0.05) in the sperm of good osmo-adapters. The study suggests that sperm are prepared for the osmotic and pH challenges in the female reproductive tract and the osmoadaptive ability is associated with ejaculate quality in bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Afrotheria is a clade of African-origin species with striking dissimilarities in appearance and habitat. In this study, we compared whole proteome sequences of six Afrotherian species to obtain a broad viewpoint of their underlying molecular make-up, to recognize potentially unique proteomic signatures. We find that 62% of the proteomes studied here, predominantly involved in metabolism, are orthologous, while the number of homologous proteins between individual species is as high as 99.5%. Further, we find that among Afrotheria, L. africana has several orphan proteins with 112 proteins showing < 30% sequence identity with their homologues. Rigorous sequence searches and complementary approaches were employed to annotate 156 uncharacterized protein sequences and 28 species-specific proteins. For 122 proteins we predicted potential functional roles, 43 of which we associated with protein- and nucleic-acid binding roles. Further, we analysed domain content and variations in their combinations within Afrotheria and identified 141 unique functional domain architectures, highlighting proteins with potential for specialized functions. Finally, we discuss the potential relevance of highly represented protein families such as MAGE-B2, olfactory receptor and ribosomal proteins in L. africana and E. edwardii, respectively. Taken together, our study reports the first comparative study of the Afrotherian proteomes and highlights salient molecular features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of the present study was to purify sheep spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from testicular isolate using combined enrichment methods and to study the effect of growth factors on SSC stemness during culture. Methods: The testicular cells from prepubertal male sheep were isolated, and SSCs were purified using Ficoll gradients (10 and 12%) followed by differential plating (laminin with BSA). SSCs were cultured with StemPro®-34 SFM, additives, and FBS for 7 days. The various doses (ng/ml) of growth factors, EGF at 10, 15, and 20, GDNF at 40, 70, and 100 and IGF-1 at 50, 100, and 150 were tested for the proliferation and stemness of SSCs in vitro. The stemness in cultured cells was assessed using SSC markers PLZF, ITGA6, and GFRα1. Results: Ficoll density gradient separation significantly (p < 0.05) increased the percentage of SSCs in 12% fraction (35.1 ± 3.8 vs 11.2 ± 3.7). Subsequently, purification using laminin with BSA plating further enriched SSCs to 61.7 ± 4.7%. GDNF at 40 ng/ml, EGF at 15 and 20 ng/ml and IGF1 at 100 and 150 ng/ml significantly (p < 0.05) improved proliferation and stemness of SSCs up to 7 days in culture. GDNF at 40 ng/ml outperformed other growth factors tested and could maintain the ovine SSCs proliferation and stemness for 36 days. Conclusions: The combined enrichment method employing density gradient centrifugation and laminin with BSA plating improves the purification efficiency of ovine SSCs. GDNF at 40 ng/ml is essential for optimal proliferation and sustenance of stemness of ovine SSCs in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 3D structure of a protein is essential to understand protein dynamics. If experimentally determined structure is unavailable, comparative models could be used to infer dynamics. However, the effectiveness of comparative models, compared to experimental structures, in inferring dynamics is not clear. To address this, we compared dynamics features of ~800 comparative models with their crystal structures using normal mode analysis. Average similarity in magnitude, direction, and correlation of residue motions is >0.8 (where value 1 is identical) indicating that the dynamics of models and crystal structures are highly similar. Accuracy of 3D structure and dynamics is significantly higher for models built on multiple and/or high sequence identity templates (>40%). Three‐dimensional (3D) structure and residue fluctuations of models are closer to that of crystal structures than to templates (TM score 0.9 vs 0.7 and square inner product 0.92 vs 0.88). Furthermore, long‐range molecular dynamics simulations on comparative models of RNase 1 and Angiogenin showed significant differences in the conformational sampling of conserved active‐site residues that characterize differences in their activity levels. Similar analyses on two EGFR kinase variant models highlight the effect of mutations on the functional state‐specific αC helix motions and these results corroborate with the previous experimental observations. Thus, our study adds confidence to the use of comparative models in understanding protein dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present work is focused on the sensory quality of yogurt produced with high fibre powder. Methods: Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the ingredients like: Milk (1000 ml), sugar (100 g), Jack fruit powder (20g) and Banana Stem Powder (25g). Results: The results showed that the model fit was significant (p < 0.05) and there was satisfactory correlation between actual and fitted values. The statistical model was used to optimise the factors level for highest acceptability, to produce yogurt with high fibre. Data obtained from RSM on yogurt produced with high fibre banana stem powder and Jack fruit powder were subjected to the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and analyzed using a second order polynomial equation. Sensory analysis for colour and taste in the yogurt produced with banana stem powder and Jack fruit powder at the optimized ingredients composition were performed. Conclusion: The optimum condition for the best sensory score is Milk- 826ml, Sugar- 99.8g, Jack fruit powder 20.3g and Banana Stem Powder-22.5g. Yogurt produced with high fibre powder under the optimum conditions for sensory score was again subjected to evaluation of sensory values and the results were compared with the RSM predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With artificial insemination (AI) and other precision dependent assisted reproductive technologies (ART) being followed in large scale in human and animal reproduction, assessing semen quality and fertilizability is under continuous scrutiny. Various tests have been developed to predict semen quality, but so far no single, highly reliable test is available. In this regard, transcriptomic profiling of spermatozoa assumes significance as it carries the information about spermatogenesis, sperm function, and paternal roles in post-fertilization events. Human spermatozoal transcriptome profiling has been carried out on a large number of individuals to predict the semen quality. A study in human indicated that the outcome of some idiopathic couples seeking reproductive care could be helped using transcriptomic profiling of spermatozoa. Such studies have a direct impact on the bovine dairy industry, wherein AI is practiced. Limited studies in bovine spermatozoal transcriptome profiling have revealed that the spermatozoa contain various classes of RNA, like in human. Approximately 13,000 bovine genes yield a series of spermatozoal transcripts, of which most are fragmented in nature. Their abundance is indicative of the timing of events associated with spermatogenesis, e.g., PRM1, IGF1, BMP2; sperm function, TSSK6, CRISP, HSFY2; fertility, UBE2D3, Integrin-β, LDC-1; and embryonic development, miR34c-5p, BCL2L11, BRCA1. The most abundant translated bovine transcripts are BSP3 and SPATA18, and are involved in regulation of germ cell development and the maintenance of chromatin integrity during spermatogenesis respectively. The presence of transcripts associated with placental development, e.g., placental associated glycoproteins (PAGs) have suggested their possible influence beyond early embryonic development. Changes in transcript levels like RPL31 and PRKCE that increase, and PRM1 that decreases, during cryopreservation need to be defined in order to optimize cryopreservation and fertility yield. Spermatozoal transcriptome profiling with validation studies are warranted in large numbers of animals to elucidate their significance for selecting fertile bulls for the breeding program. Abbreviations: AI: artificial insemination; BSE: breeding soundness evaluation; cfs-mRNA: cell-free seminal mRNA; piRNA: PIWI-interacting RNA; tRNA: transfer RNA; fg: femtogram; TPM: transcripts per million reads; RPKM: reads per kilobase million; rRNA: ribosomal RNA; mt-RNA: mitochondrial RNA; lncRNA: long non-coding RNA; sncRNA: small noncoding RNA; snoRNA: small nucleolar RNA; snRNA: small nuclear RNA; miRNA: microRNA; snaR: small NF90-associated RNAs; SINES: short interspersed nuclear elements; LINES: long interspersed nuclear elements; MER: medium reiterated sequence; F1 offspring: filial 1 offspring; PAGs: placental associated glycoproteins; TCP: Transcription factor T complex protein; BSP3: bovine seminal plasma protein 3; SCNT: somatic cell nuclear transfer; qPCR: quantitative (real-time) polymerase chain reaction; SSH: suppression subtractive hybridization; SNP: single nucleotide polymorphism; 2-DE: 2 dimensional gel electrophoresis; LC-MS/MS: liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility is declining in domestic animals across the world. The reduction in fertility could be attributed to male, female and managemental factors. Although artificial insemination (AI) using frozen semen emerged 50 years back, fertility rate with AI technology is less and unpredictable. In AI industry, one bull is used to produce at least three lakh insemination doses; hence, the selection of fertile bulls becomes very important. Since standard semen evaluation tests are not sufficient to predict bull fertility accurately, the researchers have sought laboratory assays / molecular tests that would accurately predict the fertilizing potential of a semen sample. In this context, biotechnological advances in "omic technologies" help to understand the events associated to spermatogenesis, sperm function, fertilization and embryonic development ending in birth of viable healthy offspring. Profiling fertility-regulating biomolecules substances in spermatozoa or seminal plasma are considered to be helpful to predict fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of different sources of zinc on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of semen and blood testosterone in Mahabadi mature bucks. Twenty-four mature male goats (40 ± 0.86 kg), approximately 1-1.5 years old, were divided into three groups (n = 8) and assigned to experimental treatments for 56 days in a completely randomized design. The treatments included: 1. control (a basal diet containing 22.14 mg/kg zinc without zinc supplement), 2. basal diet + 35 mg/kg Zn as ZnSO4 (an inorganic source of Zn), and 3. basal diet + 35 mg/kg Zn as ZnMet (an organic source of Zn). Qualitative (ejaculate volume, sperm concentration) and quantitative (viability, membrane integrity, morphology, and CASA detected parameters) properties of semen and plasma testosterone and Zn, Cu, and Fe concentrations were evaluated. Results showed that ZnMet vs. ZnSO4 increased sperm membrane integrity and plasma Zn concentration and reduced morphologically abnormal spermatozoa (P=0.05), but there were no significant differences in other parameters. Viability, membrane integrity, morphology, some of the CASA detected parameters (total motility, straight-line velocity, average path velocity, beat cross frequency of sperm), and the plasma concentration of testosterone in zinc-supplemented groups was significantly higher than the control group. In conclusion, the positive effects of an organic source of Zn were seen in reducing abnormal spermatozoa and improving membrane integrity, plasma Zn concentration, and plasma testosterone concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to ascertain the effectiveness of seminal plasma mRNAs as markers to assess the reproductive performance of bulls. Semen samples (33 ejaculates) from 11 bulls were evaluated for sperm kinematic and functional parameters. TotalRNAwas isolated from cell-free seminal (cfs) using TRIzol LS reagent and the concentration of cfs-RNA was 24.4±2.3 μgmL-1 seminal plasma. The cfs-RNA was fragmented to a size of 25-500 bp. Of the cfs-mRNAs screened using real time PCR, expression of protamine 1 (PRM1) was positively (P<0.05) associated with the mitochondrial membrane potential of raw semen, whereas expression of Fas Ligand (FASLG) was negatively (P<0.05) associated with sperm velocity, membrane integrity and chromatin distribution in post-thaw semen samples. The percentage of Type A spermatozoa (amplitude of lateral movement of head >2.5 mm and straightness >85%) in raw semen was positively (P<0.05) associated with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2D3 (UBE2D3), tumour-associated necrotic factor-associated death domain (TRADD) and caspase-3 (CASP3) expression. Nerve growth factor (NGF) expression was positively (P<0.05) associated with the maintenance of post-thaw functional membrane integrity in spermatozoa and could be used to assess the cryotolerance of bull semen. In conclusion, the expression of cfs mRNAs can be used to assess the reproductive performance of males and to predict the sensitivity of spermatozoa to cryoinjury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The buffalo seminal plasma protein profile and its relationship with sperm quality have not been studied in detail. Thus, the aim of the present study was to profile buffalo seminal plasma proteins and to assess the relationship between differentially expressed proteins and sperm characteristics. Semen samples (n=44) were collected from 11 Murrah buffalo bulls (four ejaculates from each animal) and seminal plasma protein profiling was performed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight analysis of one of the differentially expressed proteins, namely the 11-12 kDa protein, identified it as tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39). Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of TIP39, with TIP39 expression in seminal plasma varying among bulls. Based on TIP39 levels, bulls were classified into two groups, those with high and low protein. The percentages of spermatozoa positive for mitochondrial membrane potential test, chromatin distribution test, synthetic media sperm penetrability test and acrosomal integrity test were significantly (P<0.05) high in the high protein group. The present study is the first to demonstrate the presence of TIP39 in buffalo seminal plasma and the positive effect of TIP39 on the functional parameters and fertilising ability of spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assam Hill goat (AHG) is an important goat germplasm found in Assam and its adjoining areas of India. The study was designed with an objective to study the semen characteristics and freezability of AHG buck semen using Tris -Egg yolk-Citrate-Fructose diluent. The mean values of fresh semen characteristics in AHG bucks viz., ejaculate volume (ml), initial sperm motility (%), sperm concentration (x106/ml), live sperm (%), sperm abnormality (%), HOST-reacted sperm (%) and intact acrosome (%) recorded were 0.39 ± 0.01, 77.97 ± 0.73, 3201.00 ± 143.78, 83.02 ± 0.65, 7.66 ± 0.73, 66.95 ± 0.74 and 93.34 ± 0.51, respectively. Mean values for post-thaw semen characteristics i.e., sperm motility (%), live sperm (%), HOST-reacted sperm (%) and intact acrosome (%) were 55.39 ± 0.97, 71.01 ± 0.78, 54.77 ± 0.55 and 82.16 ± 0.43, respectively. It can be concluded that AHG bucks donate acceptable quality of semen which can be frozen successfully in Tris-Egg yolk-Citrate-Fructose diluents for using in Artificial Insemination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle ear disease is a common clinical entity; imaging, especially High resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT), plays a crucial role in diagnosis and assessing the disease extent, helping to decide appropriate management. Temporal bone imaging is challenging and involves thorough understanding of the anatomy, especially in relation to HRCT imaging. Most of the middle ear pathologies appear as "soft tissue" on imaging. Careful analysis of the soft tissue on the HRCT is crucial in achieving the right diagnosis; clinical information is essential and the imaging findings need correlation with clinical presentation and otoscopic findings. The purpose of this pictorial essay is to enlist the pathologies that present as soft tissue in middle ear and to provide a structured and practical imaging approach that will serve as a guide for confident reporting in daily practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  A 35 month old child was referred for electrophysiology testing with pendular nystagmus, corresponding head oscillations and reduced vision. Flash visual evoked potential (VEP) revealed large responses at the right occiput (but not the left occiput) from the right eye and similar large responses at only the left occiput from the left eye, indicating absent/deficient crossover at the chiasm. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan subsequently confirmed absence of the optic chiasm. There was no other evidence of midline brain defects. Her subsequent development to age 11 has been followed. The nystagmus has remained mainly horizontal but a torsional component was noted from age 5 years and described as see-saw at age 6 years. A small right esotropia was noted at 6 years and spectacles prescribed for low hypermetropic refractive error. Bilateral superior rectus recessions at age 7 years produced an improved head posture. Her visual acuity has remained stable at around 6/24 from age 4 years. No binocularity nor stereopsis has been demonstrated over subsequent visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was undertaken with an aim to record and analyse the data related to basic reproductive parameters such as length of estrous cycle, estrus duration, pre-ovulatory follicle size at ovulation, day of ovulation, length of gestation and days of occurrence of foal heat in respect of Kathiawari mares for a period of thirteen consecutive breeding seasons (2010-2023). The mares were monitored closely for their estrus signs, examined with transrectal ultrasonography for the size of the follicle variation and to determine the size of the follicle at ovulation. The mares were inseminated with the frozen thawed semen collected from Kathiawari stallions. This is the first time ever report that live foals have been obtained using frozen semen via artificial insemination in kathiawari horses. The data on reproductive indices of the mares of Kathiawari breed in India are scanty and there are no available reports on reproductive characteristics of Kathiawari breed until today in the literature. The results of the present findings are of much useful and may serve as a ready reckoner for the reproductive traits of Kathiawari breed reared under arid region. The differences in the reproductive parameters observed in relation to other breeds of Indian horses may be attributed to breed differences and other environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Boar sperm demonstrate significant sensitivity to the conditions during cryopreservation, with various factors, and show a reduction in their fertilization capacity due to damaging effects on sperm cell membranes. We investigated the effects of crude garden cress seed oil (CGCSO) on sperm viability, motility, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant activity in frozen boar semen. CGCSO improved post-thawed semen qualities such as the total motility, progressive motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and mitochondrial function as well as reduced lipid peroxidation. As a result, we suggested that 1% CGCSO in the freezing extender diminished the oxidative damage caused by cryopreservation and led to improved sperm quality after thawing. This study aimed to examine the effects of crude garden cress seed oil (CGCSO) on frozen–thawed boar sperm qualities. Semen ejaculates (n = 12) were collected and further divided into six equal aliquots based on CGCSO concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5% v/v) in the freezing extender. Semen samples were processed and cryopreserved utilizing the traditional liquid nitrogen vapor technique. Subsequently, semen samples were thawed in a thermos with warm water at 50 °C for 12 s and evaluated for sperm morphology using scanning electron microscopy, sperm motility using a CASA, sperm viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, MDA level, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activity. The results indicated that 1% CGCSO resulted in superior post-thaw sperm characteristics, including enhanced sperm morphology, motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and mitochondrial function. Particularly, the total motile sperm increased by 16.5%, progressive motile sperm increased by 13.0%, viability improved by 15.1%, acrosome integrity increased by 14%, and mitochondrial function improved by 14.1% compared to the control group. CGCSO treatment at 1% and 1.5% exhibited the lowest level of MDA (45.73 ± 11.2 and 45.73 ± 11.3 µmol/L, respectively) compared to the other groups. The CGCSO-supplemented groups showed higher values of TAC, GSH-Px, and CAT than the control group but not significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive efficiency of livestock is crucial for agricultural productivity and economic sustainability. One critical factor in successful fertilization and the viability of offspring is the quality of semen. Poor semen quality, especially in frozen-thawed semen used in artificial insemination (AI) have been shown to influence conception outcomes, resulting a negative impact on livestock production. Recent advancements in genetic research have identified specific markers linked to semen quality traits in various livestock species, such as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, buffalo, and equines. These genetic markers are essential in screening males for breeding suitability, which in turn enhances selective breeding programs. Understanding these markers is crucial for improving reproductive performance and increasing productivity in livestock populations. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the genetic markers associated with semen quality in key livestock. It explores the underlying genetic mechanisms and their practical implications in animal breeding and management. The review underscores the importance of integrating genetic insights into breeding strategies to optimize reproductive efficiency and ensure the sustainable development of livestock industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive efficiency of livestock is crucial for agricultural productivity and economic sustainability. One critical factor in successful fertilization and the viability of offspring is the quality of semen. Poor semen quality, especially in frozen-thawed semen used in artificial insemination (AI) have been shown to influence conception outcomes, resulting a negative impact on livestock production. Recent advancements in genetic research have identified specific markers linked to semen quality traits in various livestock species, such as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, buffalo, and equines. These genetic markers are essential in screening males for breeding suitability, which in turn enhances selective breeding programs. Understanding these markers is crucial for improving reproductive performance and increasing productivity in livestock populations. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the genetic markers associated with semen quality in key livestock. It explores the underlying genetic mechanisms and their practical implications in animal breeding and management. The review underscores the importance of integrating genetic insights into breeding strategies to optimize reproductive efficiency and ensure the sustainable development of livestock industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the possible pharmacological effects of Chlorella vulgaris (Cg), Spirulina platensis (St), and silymarin (Sl) against thioacetamide (TA)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, with a focus on their antioxidant, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. The following is the random grouping of sixty male rats into six groups of ten animals each: the control (negative control), TA-intoxicated group (positive control; 300 mg/kg body weight (BW)), Sl + TA group (100 mg Sl/kg BW + TA), St + TA group (400 mg St/kg BW + TA), Cg + TA (400 mg Cg/kg BW + TA), and St + Cg + TA group (400 St + 400 Cg mg/kg BW + TA) were all administered for 30 days. At the start of the study, groups 2 through 6 were administered TA intraperitoneally at a dosage of 300 mg/kg BW for two consecutive days, with a 24 h gap between each dose, to induce cardiac damage. Blood samples were obtained to measure hematological parameters and perform biochemical assays, including lipid profiles and cardiac enzymes. For histopathology and immunohistochemistry determination, tissue samples were acquired. The current findings showed that TA injection caused hematological alterations and cardiac injury, as evidenced by greater serum levels of troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, and total creatine kinase (p < 0.05), as well as significantly elevated serum malondialdehyde and decreased serum total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) concentrations. Moreover, an increase in blood low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol concentration (p < 0.05) was recorded in the TA group. There were alterations in the heart tissue's histological structure of the TA group compared to the control ones. These alterations were characterized by vacuolar degeneration of myocytes, loss of cross striation, coagulative necrosis, and fibrosis of interstitial tissue, which was ameliorated by the supplementation of SI, St, and Cg. The TA-intoxicated group showed weak expression of B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (p < 0.05) and strong immunoreactivity of tumor necrosis factor-α and B-cell lymphoma protein 2-associated X (p < 0.05). However, the groups receiving Sl, St, and Cg experienced the opposite. The administration of Sl, St, Cg, and St + Cg along with TA significantly improved and restored (p < 0.05) erythrogram indices, including RBCs, hemoglobin, total leukocytic count, lymphocytes, and monocyte, to the normal control values. The administration of Sl, St, and Cg alleviated the cardiotoxicity caused by TA via reducing oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and apoptosis in heart tissue. In summary, the current findings suggest that the treatment with Sl, St, and Cg was beneficial in ameliorating and reducing the cardiotoxicity induced by TA in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Artificial insemination (AI) is crucial for dairy cattle worldwide due to its impact on reproductive efficiency and profitability. This study examined the effects of thawing time and temperature, combined with a thermo-resistance test (TRT), on sperm motility and kinematic variables in dairy bulls' semen for AI. The semen thawing process is critical in maintaining sperm quality, requiring strict adherence to standardized techniques. Incorrect thawing procedures can damage sperm structures. Rapid thawing is necessary to prevent ice recrystallization, and excessive heat exposure can lead to detrimental changes. The thermo-resistance test simulates conditions of the female reproductive tract to assess sperm longevity. Results indicated that Jersey bulls were greater for total and progressive motility percentages compared to Holstein bulls. Jersey bulls exhibited higher values for various velocity parameters and linearity, while Holstein bulls had a lower crossover frequency. The optimal thawing condition was 37 °C for 30 s. Sperm quality decreased with longer post-thawing times. This investigation aimed to analyze the effect that thawing time and temperature in combination with a termo-resistance test had on straws from dairy bulls used for artificial insemination (AI) on semen motility and kinematic variables measured with CASA systems. Eight animals of Holstein and Jersey breeds were used, and nine frozen-thawed semen doses per animal were analyzed for each breed. Three temperatures (35, 37, and 40 °C) and three thawing times (35, 40, and 45 s) were evaluated using a factorial design. Motility and kinematic patterns were analyzed using CASA-mot (Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis of motility) technology at different post-thawing times (0.5, 1, and 2 h). Sperm motility in Jersey bulls was higher (p < 0.05) than in Holstein ones (64.52 ± 1.45% and 53.10 ± 1.40%, respectively). The same effect was seen with progressive motility among the two breeds (Jersey: 45.29 ± 1.00%; Holstein: 36.30 ± 0.98%, p < 0.05). The Jersey breed presented higher values (p < 0.05) of curvilinear velocity (VCL), rectilinear velocity (VSL), average velocity (VAP), linearity on forward progression (LIN), and wobble (WOB). The Holstein breed showed a lower mean value (p < 0.05) of the beat-cross frequency (BCF) compared to the Jersey breed, thus suggesting an effect on VCL and VAP. During the post-thaw period, a gradual increase in VCL was observed at 2 h. VSL and VAP showed a decrease (p < 0.05) as the post-thaw period was prolonged. The study showed differences in sperm quality between Holstein and Jersey breeds, influenced by cryopreservation, thawing, and post-thawing incubation. Thawing at 37 °C for 30 s was considered optimal in relation to sperm motility. In addition, a decrease in sperm quality was observed as post-thawing time increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of oral administration of White Radish root Juice (WRJ) on physiological response, blood profile and liver histology of broiler chickens was investigated. Day-old Arbor acre broiler chicks (n = 240) were allotted to six treatment groups of 40 birds each, replicated into four in a 2 by 3 factorial design, consisting of 2 dosages of WRJ (10 ml and 15 ml) and frequency of administration (FOA) (Zero (control), Twice/week and Thrice/week of WRJ). Birds in the control groups were administered broad-spectrum antibiotics. No significant (p>0.05) variation was observed in all the physiological parameters across the treatments. Lower (p<0.05) Red Blood Cell (RBC) value was recorded in the control group compared with other FOA. Birds on 10 ml WRJ thrice/week (2.22 x 1012/L) and 15 ml WRJ twice/week (2.25 x 1012/L) had higher (p<0.05) RBC compared with other treatment groups. Significantly (p<0.05) lower glucose (140.81 mg/dL), Total protein (48.08 g/L), Albumin (26.61 g/L), Creatinine (0.69 mg/dL), Alanine amino transferase (ALT) (50.98 U/L), Aspartate amino transferase (AST) (43.79 U/L), Alkaline phosphatase (72.93 U/L) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) (1.64 μmol/L) were observed in birds on 15 ml WRJ/L compared with birds on other groups. Likewise, birds on twice/week had significantly (p<0.05) lower Albumin, Uric acid, Creatinine, ALT, AST, Cholesterol and MDA compared with birds on thrice/week FOA. Mild congestion of the central veins was observed in the control group which was absent in all other groups. Hepatocytes and sinusoids appear normal in all the treatments. It can therefore be concluded that WRJ proffer health benefit on broiler chickens, significantly at 15 ml/L, and both Frequencies of administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chlorella vulgaris (CV) is a natural source of functional antioxidants capable of protecting against oxidative stress; its dietary supplementation in animals can serve as a way of improving animals' performance and productive output; on this background, the microalgae was supplemented to growing New Zealand white rabbits and its effects on performances and oxidative stress status were evaluated. Method: Thirty-five (35) 6-week-old New Zealand White rabbits (935.48 ± 5.92 g) were divided into five groups (n = 7 per group) in a completely randomized design experiment; rabbits in control groups were fed only commercial rabbits feed, while rabbits in treatment groups were supplemented with 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg Chlorella vulgaris biomass per kilogram of the body weight along with commercial rabbits feed daily. Feed intake and body weight changes were recorded daily and weekly; at the end of the study, blood was collected and subjected to chemical assays for evaluation of serum oxidative stress markers and antioxidant activities. Results: Dietary supplementation of the microalgae significantly increased the rabbits' growth weights (p < 0.01) without significant increase or reduction in feed intakes (p < 0.56), but significantly enhanced feed to gain ratio. The microalgae supplementation significantly protected the rabbits against oxidative stress damages through the reduction of malondialdehyde concentrations (p < 0.001) and increased total antioxidant capacity (p < 0.003). It also led to higher superoxide dismutase activity (p < 0.001), increased catalase activity (p < 0.003), and higher concentration of reduced glutathione (p < 0.001). Conclusion: It was concluded from outcomes of both performance and biochemical analysis of the rabbits that daily supplementation of Chlorella vulgaris between 200 and 500 mg per kilogram of the body weight in prepubertal rabbits significantly improved performances in forms of higher weight gains and enhanced feed utilization; it also protected against oxidative stress damages hence it was recommended as dietary antioxidant supplement for growing prepubertal rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising incidence of metabolic diseases is linked to elevated blood glucose levels, contributing to conditions such as diabetes and promoting the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs, formed by non-enzymatic reactions between sugars and proteins, build up in tissues and are implicated in various diseases. This article explores the relationship between glycemic control and AGE accumulation, focusing on fertility implications. A computational model using network theory was developed, featuring a molecular database and a network with 145 nodes and 262 links, categorized as a Barabasi–Albert scale-free network. Three main subsets of nodes emerged, centered on glycemic control, fertility, and immunity, with AGEs playing a critical role. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), a receptor expressed in several tissues including sperm, was identified as a key hub, suggesting that the modulation of TRPV1 in sperm by AGEs may influence fertility. Additionally, a novel link between glycemic control and immunity was found, indicating that immune cells may play a role in endocytosing specific AGEs. This discovery underscores the complex interplay between glycemic control and immune function, with significant implications for metabolic, immune health, and fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Donkeys play crucial roles in agriculture and human livelihoods globally. Reproductive disorders in donkeys pose significant challenges to their health and well-being. While donkeys share many similarities with horses, specific aspects of donkey disorders remain poorly understood. Knowledge about reproductive disorders of donkeys is important for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for these animals. This review aims to provide a brief update on reproductive disorders of donkeys including common infectious and non-infectious causes for infertility and pregnancy loss. Understanding reproductive health in donkeys plays a crucial role in enhancing the welfare status of donkeys and decreasing associated economic loss. Reproductive disorders in donkeys present a significant challenge to their health and welfare, impacting their roles in agriculture, conservation, and companionship. With the development of large-scale donkey farming in recent years, reproductive disorders have become a limiting factor for the expansion of the donkey population. In general, donkeys suffer from a similar array of diseases like horses, but little is known about the specificities of donkey reproductive disorders. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathogenesis, distribution, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of a diverse array of reproductive disorders affecting donkeys. There are similar infectious and non-infectious causes for infertility and pregnancy loss in jennies compared with mares, but a difference in disease susceptibility does exist, which may be attributed to genetic influence, pathogen specificity, the environment, and reproductive management practices. Diagnostic and treatment plans need to be tailored towards the particularities of donkey reproductive disorders to increase donkey populations and to enhance the standard of care for this species. Enhancing reproductive health in donkeys not only ensures their sustainable use but also promotes their welfare and longevity in diverse human–animal interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The process of acquiring sexed sperm involves the separation of sperm with X and Y chromosomes, allowing for the production of offspring of the desired sex. However, this process can negatively affect the quality of semen due to biochemical and physical stresses. ProAKAP4 is a major component of the sperm flagellum structure. In this study, sexed bull semen samples were evaluated using the proAKAP4 biomarker for the first time. Based on CASA and flow cytometry analysis of spermatozoa after thawing and incubation for 3 h, proAKAP4 is considered a practical biomarker for estimating the longevity of sexed sperm quality. ProAKAP4 is a sperm structural protein that regulates motility through the PKA-dependent cAMP signaling pathway, which is synthesized as an X chromosome-linked member of the gene family. This study aims to determine the optimal level of proAKAP4 for evaluating sexed semen through investigating its relationship with the longevity of sperm quality in sexed Holstein bull sperm. A total of 30 sexed sperm samples (bearing X chromosomes) from 30 distinct Holstein bulls (n = 30) were analyzed. The frozen bull sperm samples were assessed for their proAKAP4 levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity (PMAI), and spermatozoa movement parameters at hours 0 and 3 after thawing. The proAKAP4 levels in the sexed sperm samples ranged from 16.35 to 72.10 ng/10 M spz, with an average of 37.18 ± 15.1 ng/10 M spz. A strong positive correlation was observed between proAKAP4 levels and total motility, progressive motility, PMAI, high mitochondrial membrane potential, VAP, and VCL values after 3 h of incubation, when compared to post-thaw analyses. The results also reveal that spermatozoa with proAKAP4 levels of ≥40 ng/10 M spz exhibit higher quality. In conclusion, the level of proAKAP4 in sexed sperm aligns with previous studies and shows potential as a biomarker for assessing the longevity of sexed sperm quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Research on broiler feeding has increasingly focused on finding effective alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and antibiotic residues in food products. A total EU-wide ban on AGPs was implemented in 2006. However, 70% of antibiotics are still used in animal treatment, contributing to 700,000 deaths worldwide annually due to antibiotic-resistant infections. As a result, researchers have sought natural alternatives, such as probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and plant-based preparations like essential oils, which have shown promise in improving broiler production traits and meat quality. The experiment in this study demonstrated that phytogenic supplements improved the European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF). Additionally, meat from chickens on the phytogenic diet had better water-holding capacity, higher collagen content, and a favorable profile of amines, ketones, and aldehydes, indicating improved quality. These findings suggest that alternatives to AGPs can enhance broiler chicken production and meat physicochemical properties when used in appropriate doses and proportions. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of a phytogenic additive (PA) in broiler chickens' diet on production, physiochemical parameters, and the profile of volatile organic compounds present in broiler chickens' meat. The experiment was conducted in a commercial chicken house, where Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into two groups, each consisting of 65,000 broilers. One group was fed a diet supplemented with 100 ppm of PA throughout the rearing period. The primary chemical composition of the meat and its physicochemical parameters were determined. A visual assessment of breast muscles for defects and volatile organic compounds were evaluated using an electronic nose system. No statistically significant differences were shown in the production performance of the chickens; while summarizing all production parameters, a higher EPEF index of 31 points in the experimental group was highlighted. Breast muscle quality showed differences in drip loss and WHC (p ≤ 0.01) in favor of the experimental group, and a lower cutting force value (p ≤ 0.05) was found for breast muscles from the experimental group. The group also had a lower proportion of muscles with a white striping defect, and the results of volatile organic compound profiling showed the most aroma units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nTiO2) and graphene oxide (GO) are extensively used nanomaterials in various products and applications. Freshwater ecosystems are a crucial sink for these pollutants, posing severe threats to aquatic organisms. Although multiple studies have investigated the pristine toxicity of nTiO2 and GO in freshwater organisms, the combined toxicity of these materials remains unexplored. Interaction media is a crucial factor in evaluating toxicity nanomaterial toxicity towards algae. In this study, we have investigated the comparative effect of sterilized and filtered freshwater and BG-11 medium on the pristine and combined toxicity of nTiO² and GO on freshwater algae Chlorella sp. Results indicated that the combination of nTiO² and GO showed more toxicity when compared to their respective pristine forms. This could be due to the additive effect exhibited by nTiO² and GO on Chlorella sp. The enhanced growth inhibition for the combined toxicity was in the order of 1 mg L-1 nTiO² + 1 mg L-1 GO > 1 mg L-1 nTiO² + 0.1 mg L-1 GO > 0.1 mg L-1 nTiO² + 1 mg L-1 GO > 0.1 mg L-1 nTiO² + 0.1 mg L-1 GO. All test groups that interacted in BG-11 media exhibited less toxicity when compared to corresponding groups in the lake water medium. This could be attributed to the cushioning effect of BG-11 medium, providing supplementary nutrition to the algal cells. This signifies that the environmentally relevant conditions could be more detrimental than the laboratory conditions. This study elucidates valuable insights into the potential detrimental effects associated with the combination of nTiO² and GO on freshwater algae. Furthermore, we have evaluated the growth inhibition, oxidative stress, and photosynthetic activity of Chlorella sp. in both environmentally relevant interaction medium and well-defined culture medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high incidence of idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss (iRPL) may stem from the limited research on male contributory factors. Many studies suggest that sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress contribute to iRPL, but their roles are still debated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate various biological processes by modulating gene expression. While differential expression of specific miRNAs has been observed in women suffering from recurrent miscarriages, paternal miRNAs remain unexplored. We hypothesize that analyzing sperm miRNAs can provide crucial insights into the pathophysiology of iRPL. Therefore, this study aims to identify dysregulated miRNAs in the spermatozoa of male partners of iRPL patients. Total mRNA was extracted from sperm samples of iRPL and control groups, followed by miRNA library preparation and high-output miRNA sequencing. Subsequently, raw sequence reads were processed for differential expression analysis, target prediction, and bioinformatics analysis. Twelve differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in the iRPL group, with eight miRNAs upregulated (hsa-miR-4454, hsa-miR-142-3p, hsa-miR-145-5p, hsa-miR-1290, hsa-miR-1246, hsa-miR-7977, hsa-miR-449c-5p, and hsa-miR-92b-3p) and four downregulated (hsa-miR-29c-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p, hsa-miR-519a-2-5p, and hsa-miR-520b-5p). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that gene targets of the upregulated miRNAs are involved in various biological processes closely associated with sperm quality and embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buffalo is a dominant dairy animal in many agriculture-based economies. However, the poor reproductive efficiency (low conception rate) of the buffalo bulls constrains the realization of its full production potential. This in turn leads to economic and welfare issues, especially for the marginal farmers in such economies. The mammalian sperm surface proteins have been implicated in the regulation of survival and function of the spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Nonetheless, the lack of specific studies on buffalo sperm surface makes it difficult for researchers to explore and investigate the role of these proteins in the regulation of mechanisms associated with sperm protection, survival, and function. This study aimed to generate a buffalo sperm surface-specific proteomic fingerprint (LC-MS/MS) and to predict the functional roles of the identified proteins. The three treatments used to remove sperm surface protein viz. Elevated salt, phosphoinositide phospholipase C (PIPLC) and in vitro capacitation led to the identification of N = 1,695 proteins (=1 high-quality peptide-spectrum matches (PSMs), p < 0.05, and FDR<0.01). Almost half of these proteins (N = 873) were found to be involved in crucial processes relevant in the context of male fertility, e.g., spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and protection in the FRT, and gamete interaction or fertilization, amongst others. The extensive sperm-surface proteomic repertoire discovered in this study is unparalleled vis-à-vis the depth of identification of reproductionspecific cell-surface proteins and can provide a potential framework for further studies on the functional aspects of buffalo spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is often used as a chemotherapeutic agent in treating tumors and is said to have adverse effects, including nephrotoxicity. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Chlorella vulgaris (VL) and Saccharum officinarum L. (SOL) against 5-FU-induced nephrotoxicity in rats through the measurement of renal histology, kidney damage indicators, and antioxidant measures. A total of forty-eight male rats were allotted into six groups: group 1 acted as a control negative group (control), group 2 received 5-FU and worked as a control positive group (FU), group 3 received SOL 15 mL/kg (SOL), group 4 received VL 400 mg/kg (VL), group 5 received 5-FU+SOL (5-FU+SOL), and group 6 received 5-FU+VL (5-FU+VL). After fifteen days, blood and renal tissue specimens were collected for hematological, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological examinations. Findings of the current investigation showed that 5-FU leads to hematological alterations and kidney injury evinced by elevated serum concentrations of uric acid, creatinine, and urea (p < 0.01), and a marked increase in kidney MDA and NO levels with a reduction in kidney CAT, SOD and GSH activities (p < 0.05). Alterations of the histopathological structure of kidney tissue in the FU group were noticed compared to the other groups. 5-FU administration elevated expression levels of TNF-α, lipocalin 2, and KIM1 (p < 0.01) compared to the control ones. 5-FU-induced nephrotoxicity was ameliorated after treatment with SOL and VL via their free radical scavenging, potent antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that the treatment with SOL and VL significantly improved nephrotoxicity induced by 5-FU in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Sheep producers would benefit from the opportunity to change offspring sex ratio towards their preferred gender. For example, male lambs have higher average daily gain and better carcass quality than female lambs. Thereby reaching a higher market weight over a set time period. However, sheep interprises require breeding females, which may lead to a higher sale price of first-cross ewes at weaning. Maternal nutrition has potential to affect many aspects of reproduction outcomes including ovulation rate, pregnancy rate, embryo survival and sex ratio of offspring. It has been indicated that some dietary nutrients including glucose and polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as total energy could affect offspring sex ratio in different mammalian species. The influence of dietary mineral balance affect offspring sex ratio in sow and ewe. Experiments on pre- and postconception mechanisms demonstrated that these mechanisms influence the sex ratio in mouse embryos. Some studies based on theories that sperm carrying the X or Y chromosome favored different vaginal pH. Therefore, it has been suggested that the pH of the vagina at the time of fertilization may have a differential effect on X- or Y- sperm, thus affecting the sex of the offspring. Feeding a negative dietary cation- anion difference (DCAD) in prepartum dairy cows improves Ca metabolism in the peripartum cow through instigating a mild metabolic acidosis via feeding excess dietary anions. We hypothesized that feeding diet with negative DCAD around mating would decrase the pH of veginal fluid and subsequently might affect lamb sex ratio in Kurdish ewes. Therfore, the aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of dietary DCAD of flushing diet around mating on plasma metabolites and hormones concentrations and reproductive performance of Kurdish ewes as well as lamb sex ratio. Materials and Methods Eighty four Kurdish ewes with average BW of 40±5 kg, BCS of 2.75±0.25 and 2-4 years were used. Ewes were divided into two similar groups and randomly assigned to experimental diets. Experimental diets consisted of 1- cationic diet (diet with DCAD of +193 mEq/kg of DM) and 2- anionic diet (diet with DCAD of -21 mEq/kg of DM). Ewes fed experimental diets from 2 weeks before estrous synchronization till 3 weeks after mating. Estrous of ewes were synchronized by 9-d intravaginal sponge and intramuscular injection of 5 mL vetaroline at the day of sponge removal. Blood samples were collected from jugular vein using 10-mL evacuated tube containing sodium heparin at the day before the beginning of experiment, at the day of sponge removal and at the day of estrous and mating. Plasma concentrations of total cholesterol, total protein, urea nitrogen, glucose, triglyceride, insulin, progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium were determined. Results and Discussion Experimental diets had no effect on estrous response, fertility rate, lambing rate, twining rate and birth BW and sex of lambs. Ewes fed anionic diet had higher plasma progesterone and lower estradiol levels at the days of sponge removal and estrous than those fed cationic diet (P<0.05). Plasma concentrations of total protein, glucose, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium did not influence by DCAD of flushing diet. Whereas, feeding anionic diet around mating decreased plasma concentration of total cholesterol and triglyceride and increased urea nitrogen (P<0.05). Conclusion According to these results, feeding flushing diet with different DCAD around mating had no effect on lamb sex ratio in Kurdish ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examined the presence of cryptorchidism in a Marwari stallion based on the biometry of scrotum and level of testosterone. The variables considerfed include the level of blood testosterone which is validated by electrochemiluminescence method, semen sampling through artificial vaginal method and sperm concentration. A comparison of testosterone level in monorchid stallion, normal Marwaei stallion and exotic Poitou jacks is offered.

Mammalian spermatozoa deliver various classes of RNAs to the oocyte during fertilization, and many of them may regulate fertility. The objective of the present study was to determine the composition and abundance of spermatozoal transcripts in fresh bull semen. The entire transcriptome of the spermatozoa from bulls (n = 3) was sequenced using two different platforms (Ion Proton and Illumina) to identify the maximum number of genes present in the spermatozoa. The bovine spermatozoa contained transcripts for 13,833 genes (transcripts per million, TPM > 10). Both intact and fragmented transcripts were found. These spermatozoal transcripts were associated with various stages of spermatogenesis, spermatozoal function, fertilization, and embryo development. The presence of intact transcripts of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) in the spermatozoa suggest a possible influence of sperm transcripts beyond early embryonic development. The specific regions (exon, intron, and exon-intron) of the particular spermatozoal transcripts might help regulate fertilization. This study demonstrates that the use of two different RNA-seq platforms provides a comprehensive profile of bovine spermatozoal RNA. Spermatozoal RNA profiling may be useful as a non-invasive method to delineate possible causes of male infertility and to predict fertility in a manner that is more effective than the conventional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]