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The aim of this study was to determine the propagation potential of some local varieties using the in vitro shoot-tip culture method. Bilecik İrikarası, Sarı Üzüm, Kartal Çavuş and Razakı were used as materials. As a result of the study, the values of rooting rate, number of roots, length of roots, number of shoots, length of shoots, number of leaves and number of nodes of the grape varieties were determined. When the cultivars were compared in terms of rooting characteristics, the highest rooting rate was 54.7%, the highest root number was 3.71 per plant, and the highest average root length value was 17.93 cm from Bilecik İrikarası. When the cultivars were evaluated in terms of shoot length, the highest shoot length value was determined in Razaki variety with 5.72 cm. Similarly, considering the number of leaves and nodes in the shoots were determined, with the highest leaf number value was of 8.71, the highest node number value was of 6.71 in Razakı variety. As a result of the study, local varieties that used as material in this study showed positive results in in vitro propagation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of chemical fertilizers and fertilizers containing microorganisms on broccoli yield were examined. It is aimed to reduce the amount of chemical fertilizer by using microorganisms. Mundo F1 Broccoli variety was used as plant material. The research was established according to the randomized block trial design with 3 treatments and 3 replications, and 20 plants were used in each replication. Applications: 1. Control: 100% chemical fertilization (U1), 2. Treatment II: 70% chemical fertilization + Microorganisms (U2), 3. Treatment II: 100% chemical fertilization + Microorganisms (U3). The aim of the study is the effects of chemical fertilizers and microorganisms on plant growth and development; To examine the effect of plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves and yield. It was concluded that the number of leaves, plant height and stem diameter generally increased in the plots where microorganisms were applied. When the results were evaluated in terms of yield compared to the control treatment, U2 treatment increased yield by 20% and U1 treatment increased yield by 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric CO2 concentration is elevated globally, which has "CO2 fertilization effects" and potentially improves plant photosynthesis, yield, and productivity. Despite the beneficial effect of CO2 fertilization being modulated by vapor pressure deficit (VPD), the underlying mechanism is highly uncertain. In the present study, the potential roles of hormones in determining CO2 fertilization effects under contrasting high and low VPD conditions were investigated by integrated physiological and transcriptomic analyses. Beneficial CO2 fertilization effects were offset under high VPD conditions and were constrained by plant water stress and photosynthetic CO2 utilization. High VPD induced a large passive water driving force, which disrupted the water balance and consequently caused plant water deficit. Leaf water potential, turgor pressure, and hydraulic conductance declined under high VPD stress. The physiological evidence combined with transcriptomic analyses demonstrated that abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonic acid (JA) potentially acted as drought-signaling molecules in response to high VPD stress. Increased foliar ABA and JA content triggered stomatal closure to prevent excessive water loss under high VPD stress, which simultaneously increased the diffusion resistance for CO2 uptake from atmosphere to leaf intercellular space. High VPD also significantly increased mesophyll resistance for CO2 transport from stomatal cavity to fixation site inside chloroplast. The chloroplast "sink" CO2 availability was constrained by stomatal and mesophyll resistance under high VPD stress, despite the atmospheric "source" CO2 concentration being elevated. Thus, ABA- and JA-mediated drought-resistant mechanisms potentially modified the beneficial effect of CO2 fertilization on photosynthesis, plant growth, and yield productivity. This study provides valuable information for improving the utilization efficiency of CO2 fertilization and a better understanding of the physiological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The 3Rs (Reduction, Refinement, Replacement) principle is driving the need for alternative methods in animal testing. Despite advancements in in vitro testing, complex systemic toxicity tests still necessitate in vivo approaches. The aim of this study was to develop a developmental toxicity test protocol using the Iberian ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl) as a model organism, integrating AI image analysis for embryo selection to improve test accuracy and reproducibility. Methods We established a developmental toxicity test protocol based on the zebrafish test. Gonadotropin was administered to induce ovulation, and in vitro fertilization was performed. Embryos were imaged at 5-6 and 6-7 h post-fertilization. AI image analysis was utilized to assess embryo viability. The test chemical was administered 24-48 h post-fertilization, and morphological changes were observed daily until day 8. Additionally, a time-lapse photography system was constructed to monitor embryonic development. Results Out of 24 cultured embryos, 75% developed normally to the late tail bud stage or initial hatching stage, whereas 25% experienced developmental arrest or death. AI image analysis achieved high accuracy in classifying embryos, with overall accuracies of 92.0% and 92.9% for two learning models. The AI system demonstrated higher precision in the selection of viable embryos compared to visual inspection. Conclusion The Iberian ribbed newt presents a viable alternative model for developmental toxicity testing, adhering to the 3Rs principles. The integration of AI image analysis substantially enhances the accuracy and reproducibility of embryo selection, providing a reliable method for evaluating developmental toxicity in pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Dokuz Eylul University Muhendislik Faculty of Engineering Journal of Science & Engineering / Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Mühendislik Fakültesi Fen ve Mühendislik Dergisi is the property of Dokuz Eylul Universitesi Muhendislik Fakultesi Fen ve Muhendislik Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Gracious Sea Urchin Tripneustes gratilla is a model organism for invertebrate marine animals and an economically important marine resource. This study investigated the effects of varying temperature ranges 29-30°C, 34-35°C, and 39-40°C on the reproductive capacity of T. gratilla. Under these temperature treatments, gamete viability was determined through the resazurin reduction test and quantified through resazurin absorbance at 630 nm, while fertilization and embryonic development were investigated through in vitro experiments. With increasing temperature, there was a significant decline in the viability of both sperm and egg cells. Gamete death was highest at 39-40°C followed by 34-35°C temperature ranges. Successful fertilization was highest at 29-30°C (92.26%) followed by 34-35°C (20.83%) and 39-40°C (11.05%) temperature ranges for the two batches. Normal embryonic development from 2 cells up to 2 arm echinopluteus was observed at 29-30 °C while abnormalities including apoptotic body formations, cell fragmentation, cell lysis, and embryo arrest were observed at 34-35°C and 39-40°C temperature ranges. This study confirmed the deleterious effect of increased temperature (34-40°C) on the reproductive potential of T. gratilla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This review presents a clinical approach to genetic issues in male infertility. Unlike other related reviews that discuss different types of genetic diseases (such as Klinefelter and Down syndrome), this review focuses on the clinical features that result from these genetic problems (such as azoospermia and oligospermia). Methods: A narrative review of the clinical literature in PubMed was conducted using keywords related to male infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, recurrent in vitro fertilization failure, and genetics. The search included articles with English reviews published online after 2020. Headlines were defined based on the available literature, and after a critical review of each manuscript, clinical facts were classified under the corresponding headlines, and a primary draft was written. Results: 29 relevant articles were selected from the search. According to the literature, there are clinical genetic approaches for azoospermia, severe oligospermia, severe teratospermia, severe asthenospermia, recurrent miscarriage, and recurrent in vitro fertilization failure. Conclusion: Although many mutations that can affect male fertility and spermogram have been identified, only a few have clinical predictive value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sperm motility is an essential factor in ensuring the fertility of males. Sperm mitochondria play a significant role in the generation of energy as well as the metabolism of sperm. The mitochondria nucleolus is essential for several sperm activities, such as sperm capping, hyperactivation, acrosome reactions, and oocyte fusion. Therefore, as the mitochondria are the basic regulators of sperm motility, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) is used to assess the mitochondrial activity and integrity of sperm. This is evaluated by examination of MMP, which may be achieved by using fluorescent dyes like the JC-1 probe. Objectives: To examine the correlation between MMP and sperm motility. Materials and methods: This study included semen samples of 60 males that were separated into two groups: 30 normomozoospermic and 30 asthenozoospermic. The samples were collected in the infertility clinic at the High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Al-Nahrain University and Um Al-Banin Center for management and in vitro fertilization. The collected samples were processed for seminal fluid analysis and evaluated according to the recommendations of WHO 2021 using an MMP-Assay kit with JC-1 dye and examined by fluorescent microscope for evaluation. Results: A positive significant correlation between subjects’ sperms motility percentage and active red-fluorescence MMP intensity (Red MMP) (P-value, 0.05, r = 0.406; P-value = 0.008). The MMP or activity plays an essential role in sperm motility and male fertility. The red MMP values in subjects with normal sperm motility were 10.22 ± 1.54 and showed a relatively higher reading in comparison to those readings of subjects group with low sperms motility (4.70 ± 0.91). Subjects with normal sperm motility showed a high MMP intensity (P-value = 0.004). Conclusion: Normal MMP is crucial for normal sperm motility. The sperm motility is proportionate to the MMP, or activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a technological innovation enabling infertile women to conceive through medical procedures. However, social inferences of IVF need to be contextualised within gender dynamics, especially in India. Though several studies have examined specific social aspects of IVF none have delineated the combination of determinants as well as implications of IVF for women. The present study assesses various social factors influencing choices for infertility treatments like IVF, and also the implications for women undergoing IVF. For a nuanced understanding of these conditions in the larger social context of India, 41 studies discussing important indices like gender dynamics, health status, power relations and social vulnerabilities of women experiencing IVF have been critically reviewed. Based on the review we contend that social pressures, gender identity, desire for a biological child, fear of marital discord and loss of self-esteem are most important factors determining such decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A geobotanical analysis of 160 steppe and ecotone plant communities with the participation of cereals in the north of the Lower Volga region (within Saratov oblast) has been carried out. The species diversity of apomictic cereals is significantly inferior to the diversity of their amphimictic relatives in the flora of the region and in the studied phytocenoses (24 apomictic and 109 amphimictic species in the flora; 17 and 34 species in the phytocenoses, respectively). At the same time, the dominants of the studied communities are equally represented by both amphimictic (14 species) and apomictic cereals (9 species). It is established that cereals with an amphimictic mode of reproduction dominate in 64 phytocenoses and apomictic cereals dominate in 48 ones. The number of phytocenoses in which apomicts are codominants significantly exceeds the number of plant communities with amphimicts codominance (46 and 22, respectively). The studied plant communities are similar in species richness and evenness. The data indicate successful competition between apomictic cereals and amphimicts and their significant contribution to the composition of steppe and ecotone phytocenoses in the northern Lower Volga region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of soil fertilization with animal manure on the spread and persistence of antibiotic resistance in the environment is far from being fully understood. To add knowledge about persistence and correlations between antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in fertilized soil, a longitudinal soil mesocosm study was conducted. Soil samples were collected from the mesocosms immediately before spreading and then afterward at fifteen time points during a 320-day observation period. Eight ARGs (ermB, sul1, tetA, tetG, tetM, cfr, fexA, and optrA) and the class 1 integron-integrase gene, intI1, were determined in both pig slurry and soil, as well as residues of 36 antibiotics. Soil chemical and biochemical parameters were also measured. Twelve antibiotics were detected in the slurry in the range of 3 µg kg−1–3605 µg kg−1, with doxycycline, lincomycin, and tiamulin being the most abundant, whereas ermB, sul1, and tetM were the predominant ARGs. Before spreading, neither antibiotic residues nor ARGs were detectable in the soil; afterwards, their concentrations mirrored those in the slurry, with a gradual decline over the duration of the experiment. After about three months, the effect of the amendment was almost over, and no further evolution was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of liquid fertilization through drip irrigation with nitrogenous (N) fertilizers, including ammonium sulfate and urea, compared to the application of granular fertilizers on highbush blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivar 'Draper' during the first three years of fruit production (2020-2022). Planting of the saplings took place in April 2018, distances were 1.1 m within rows and 2.8 m between rows, 3246 shrubs/ ha. Control variants (no fertilization) were identical for both fertilization methods (liquid and granular). The substrate was a mixture of soil, peat, and pine bark in a 1:1:1 ratio. Both types of fertilizers were used at three N rates, which were increased each year as the plants entered into production (70 to 95, 135 to 190, 195 to 270 kg/ha N). In the first year with liquid fertilization, the yield was 3.8 t/ha, while with granular fertilization, it was 2.7 t/ha, indicating a 29% higher yield with liquid fertilization. Additionally, the yield was 14.8% higher with ammonium sulfate compared to urea. The nitrogen concentration in the leaves with liquid fertilization reached 1.78%, while with granular fertilization, it was 1.67%. Moreover, with ammonium sulfate, it was 1.89%, and with urea, it was 1.73%. Overall, the highest total yield ranging from 16.9 to 25.9 t/ha during the first three years of production was achieved when the plants were fertilized with ammonium sulfate or urea at an annual rate of 70--95 kg/ha N. The conducted research found that liquid fertilization is more efficient in maximizing yield and optimizing the amount of nutrients. Liquid fertilizers were evenly distributed using drip irrigation; this uniform application helps ensure that all plants receive the same amount of nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The law (No.40/2004) stipulates that consent to Medically Assisted Procreation (MAP) remains irrevocable post ovum fertilization. Cryopreservation introduces complexities, enabling embryo implantation requests after a couple’s separation and the dissolution of the original parenthood plan. Constitutional Court Ruling No.161 in 2023 affirmed that the prohibition of revoking consent to MAP aligns with the Italian Constitution and the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights. This delicate equilibrium of conflicting interests upholds human freedom, allowing consent revocation prior to ovocyte fertilization. Permitting revocation until implantation could inflict more significant harm: the infertile woman can in fact miss the opportunity to become a mother, impacting her psychophysical well-being and freedom of self-determination. Moreover, the embryo loses the chance to live, remaining in cryopreservation, which violates its dignity. Addressing this issue requires thorough communication by medical profession-als to inform couples about the limitations on consent revocation. An element of objectivity in terms of standards and evidence-based guidelines, from which norms must originate, is of utmost importance. Relying on broadly shared rules, especially at the international level, is vital in light of the unremitting scientific advances in MAP, as in other areas of medicine, which will open up new opportunities for which current legal/regulatory frameworks are inadequate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binder of sperm (BSP) proteins represent a major class of proteins present in seminal plasma of ungulates. These proteins play a crucial role in various stages of fertilisation. The proteins have been extensively studied in purebred exotic cattle and many other species of ungulates. However, limited studies have been conducted with respect to BSP proteins in Vechur bull. This study was directed at isolation and characterisation of BSP proteins in Vechur bull seminal plasma. Seminal plasma was harvested from 36 ejaculates obtained from six healthy adult Vechur bulls. The mean protein content of seminal plasma was determined to be 84.10 ± 2.73 mg/mL. The proportion of BSP proteins recovered by gelatin affinity chromatography was 37.89 ± 0.83 per cent of the total protein. The SDS-page profiling of seminal plasma proteins revealed 20 protein bands in the 10-180 kDa region. Three bands were observed, corresponding to the molecular weights of 14.3, 13.1, and 30 kDa, representing BSP1, BSP3, and BSP5, respectively. This study identified BSP proteins as the major seminal plasma protein of Vechur bull seminal plasma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Semen sexing is among one of the most remarkable inventions of the past few decades in the field of reproductive biotechnology. The urge to produce offspring of a desired sex has remained since traditional times. Researchers have tried many methods for accurate semen sexing, but only the flow cytometry method has proved to be effective for commercial utilization. However, there were always concerns about the effects of sexed semen, especially on fertility and the rate of genetic gain. Some concerns were genuine because of factors such as low semen dosage in sexed semen straws and damage to sperm during the sorting process. Various researchers have conducted numerous studies to find out the effect of sexed semen on fertility and, in this article, we reflect on their findings. Initially, there were comparatively much lower conception rates (∼70% of conventional semen) but, with refinement in technology, this gap is bridging and the use of sexed semen will increase over time. Concerning genetic gain with use of sexed semen, a positive effect on rate of genetic progress with the use of sexed semen has been observed based on various simulation studies, although there has been a mild increase in inbreeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold transport of the cauda epididymides is a useful technique for shipping laboratory rat sperm. Cold transport of rat sperm avoids potential risks of microbiological infection, animal escape or death, and animal welfare issues. Previously, we reported that a cold-storage solution containing dimethyl sulfoxide and quercetin maintained the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm. However, cold-stored rat sperm exhibited a decreased fertilization rate after 24-h storage. To recover the fertility of cold-stored sperm, we focused on the effects of bovine serum albumin (BSA), a cholesterol acceptor that induces sperm capacitation. We sought to determine the optimal concentration of BSA in fertilization medium based on the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm. High concentrations of BSA (40 mg/ml) enhanced the fertilization rate of cold-stored rat sperm and maintained sperm fertility for 144 h. Embryos derived from cold-stored and BSA-treated sperm normally developed into pups after embryo transfer. In summary, high BSA concentrations enhanced the fertility of cold-stored rat sperm and prolonged the storage period to 144 h, thereby expanding the transportable region for genetically engineered rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recessive deleterious variants are known to segregate in livestock populations, as in humans, and some may be lethal in the homozygous state. Results: We used phased 50 k single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes and pedigree data to scan the genome of 6845 Manech Tête Rousse dairy sheep to search for deficiency in homozygous haplotypes (DHH). Five Manech Tête Rousse deficient homozygous haplotypes (MTRDHH1 to 5) were identified, with a homozygous deficiency ranging from 84 to 100%. These haplotypes are located on Ovis aries chromosome (OAR)1 (MTRDHH2 and 3), OAR10 (MTRDHH4), OAR13 (MTRDHH5), and OAR20 (MTRDHH1), and have carrier frequencies ranging from 7.8 to 16.6%. When comparing at-risk matings between DHH carriers to safe matings between non-carriers, two DHH (MTRDHH1 and 2) were linked with decreased insemination success and/or increased stillbirth incidence. We investigated the MTRDHH1 haplotype, which substantially increased stillbirth rate, and identified a single nucleotide variant (SNV) inducing a premature stop codon (p.Gln409*) in the methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MMUT) gene by using a whole-genome sequencing approach. We generated homozygous lambs for the MMUT mutation by at-risk mating between heterozygous carriers, and most of them died within the first 24 h after birth without any obvious clinical symptoms. Reverse transcriptase-qPCR and western blotting on post-mortem liver and kidney biological samples showed a decreased expression of MMUT mRNA in the liver and absence of a full-length MMUT protein in the mutant homozygous lambs. Conclusions: We identified five homozygous deficient haplotypes that are likely to harbor five independent deleterious recessive variants in sheep. One of these was detected in the MMUT gene, which is associated with lamb lethality in the homozygous state. A specific management of these haplotypes/variants in the MTR dairy sheep selection program would help enhance the overall fertility and lamb survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a decline in sexist language, traditional gender beliefs remain embedded in the scientific literature on reproductive biology and consequently continue to distort knowledge, encumber the learning process, and reinforce gender essentialism. This article analyzes the enduring force of gender stereotypes in Italian middle school science textbooks and a highly popular education film. It identifies a consistent set of stereotypes and assumptions running through textual and visual content regarding fertilization, reproductive anatomy, and human evolution. In addition, the article demonstrates congruence between these materials and students' understandings of fertilization through words and drawings elicited by a worksheet. Findings are examined within the context of pervasive gender stereotypes in textbooks and journal articles on reproductive biology, science and technology textbooks in general, and schoolbooks across subjects. The study shows that assigning gender traits to sex cells, reproductive systems, and ancestral humans misrepresents human biology, endorses a heteronormative vision of femininity and masculinity, and objectifies girls and women. Removing gendered representations from science textbooks is both more challenging and more urgent compared to other textbooks, given that their association with natural truth shields science textbooks from critical scrutiny as well as challenges to conventional conceptual frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the relationship between science, philosophy, and theology in the context of the conception of Jesus Christ. It discusses different interpretations and hypotheses throughout history, combining biological and philosophical knowledge with Christological notions. The article argues against certain models and hypotheses that do not align with Christian teachings on the Incarnation. It also examines the role of the Holy Spirit and the belief in the virginal motherhood of Mary in early Christian communities. The text emphasizes the transcendent nature of divine action in the Incarnation and cautions against reducing it to mere biological processes. It explores the role of the Virgin Mary in the conception and gestation of Jesus, suggesting that she played an active role in his development. The text presents a plausible interpretation of the conception of Jesus Christ that aligns with Catholic doctrine and respects biological facts. It discusses the biological process of fertilization and embryonic development, emphasizing that it cannot be directly applied to the conception of Jesus Christ due to the transcendent and divine action involved. The article describes the sequence of events during fertilization and the subsequent development of the zygote into a fetus. It suggests that Mary's body played a crucial role in nurturing and sheltering the developing fetus. The text also discusses the formation and development of the placenta and the organs of Jesus Christ during pregnancy. It explores the growth and maturation of Jesus' body, including the development of his brain and other organs. The interpretation presented in the text is based on a combination of biological knowledge and religious [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Mixed hybridisation trials involving Clarias gariepinus (CG), Heterobranchus longifilis (HL), and Heterobranchus bidorsalis (HB) were carried out with success using Ovulin as inducing agent. The crossing was followed by an early growth trial using post-yolk sac larvae that lasted ten days. Latency periods in the two catfishes differ, with 11 hours in crosses involving female CG and 12 hours in crosses involving female HL. The fertilisation rates of eggs from the females of the two species indicate that there is no significant discernment in fertilisation (p>0.05), with values ranging from 68.38% (CG×HB) to 80.94% (HL×CG). However, rates <80% indicate egg quality problems. The hatching rate was significantly higher (p<0.05) in both C. gariepinus (62.12%) and Heterobranchus sp. (47.75%) line crosses than the hybrids. There is an additive genetic effect due to the combination of pure-line male and female gametes that elicit better growth as against survival in crosses involving C. gariepinus. The genotype for better survival is in the maternal line of H. longifilis. These culminate into heterosis for growth in hybrid CG×HB and survival in hybrid HL×CG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Anatolian Environmental & Animal Science is the property of Bulent Verep and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Overnight coincubation of the cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) with spermatozoa may be accompanied by overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and possible determinant effects on sperm cellular status in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) program. The COCs from 100 cases were divided into two groups of short (2 hr) and long (18 hr) inseminations. The malondialdehyde (MDA) level as by-product of ROS was assessed in the insemination medium. The sperm DNA integrity, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and acrosome reaction (AR) were evaluated using sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD), fluorescence stain of JC-1, and double staining, respectively. Normally, fertilized oocytes (n = 525) were assessed via time-lapse monitoring (TLM) for assessment of the time of fading (tPNF), 2 until 8 timing (t2-t8), s1 (t2-tPNF), s2 (t4-t3), s3 (t8-t5), and duration of cell cycles. Finally, the best embryos were transferred, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Higher rates of MDA concentration, DNA fragmentation, and AR and low rate of MMP were noticed in long compared to short insemination groups (p ≤ 0.0001). The morphokinetic parameters showed five-cell stage (t5) and cell cycle 3 (cc3) that were significantly different between the groups (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03 , respectively). A high level of ROS observed in the long insemination group might have a detrimental effect on sperm status. Although, similar embryo quality and clinical outcomes were noticed in two insemination groups, but the trend was toward the short insemination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weeds are a major biotic constraint in rice production, causing crop yield losses. Fertilization system may be an effective control of weeds. This study aims to improve rice productivity through soil amendment and weed management in Burkina Faso. Method. The trial was set up in a Fisher block design with 4 replications and 10 fertilizer treatments. The effect of the fertilization was assessed on weeds at 45 days after planting through their abundance and dry biomass, and on rice through plant height and grain yield. weeds diversity at 65 days old has an average Shannon index of 2.9 bits. Three (03) weed clusters and their indicator species that are associated with the treatments studied were identified at 65 days after sowing. The Cyperus esculentus L. weed grouping was found to be associated with the organo-mineral fertilizer treatments. The application of poultry manure plus urea obtained simultaneously the lowest weed infestation rate (6.37 g/m²) and the highest grain yield (1.6 t/ha). Thus, to improve the productivity of upland rice, integrated weed management could be a combination of poultry manure treatments combined with mineral fertilization and specific control methods for the main species of the Cyperus esculentus L. group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils can act as carbon sinks mitigating global warming. This generates interest in determining how agricultural practices affect the stock of soil organic carbon (SOC). Fertilization increases SOC stocks and its impacts have been calculated at a global level. The aim of this study was to determine if fertilization leads to carbon sequestration in the Pampas of Argentina. A meta-analysis of local studies was performed to determine how fertilization impacts SOC stocks in agricultural soils. Forty studies were compiled presenting data from 27 experiments from which 109 comparisons of SOC stocks between fertilized and unfertilized treatments were extracted. Fertilization caused a significant increase of ca. 3% in the topsoil (0-20 cm) SOC stock. When nutrients application rate could be accurately defined (n= 71), the average increase in SOC stock was ca. 1 t ha-1. Increments were much smaller in comparison with those reported in literature and the carbon footprint of applied nutrients (2.31 t Ceq. ha-1). Even if increments in SOC stock in the subsoil were similar to those measured in the topsoil, greenhouse gas emission from fertilizer application would not be offset by the carbon sequestered in the soil. Fertilization has a low impact on SOC stocks and does not compensate greenhouse gases emissions in the Pampas. Rates of SOC increments resulting from fertilization identified in other regions of the world should not be applied in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indo-Pacific corals predominantly reproduce using synchronous mass spawning events to maximise fertilisation. However, as disturbances continue to thin population densities, the quantities of gametes released declines and colonies become more isolated, reducing the likelihood of cross-fertilisation. Local hydrodynamic conditions can promote or inhibit gamete contact; thus, the interaction between the abiotic environment and sperm density will determine the amount of time gametes interact. In this study, we investigated the sensitivity of reproduction to manipulations of two key limiting factors of fertilisation: sperm concentration and contact time between gametes. We explored fertilisation kinetics of phylogenetically and functionally similar and diverse coral taxa on the Great Barrier Reef and Western Australia (Acropora digitifera, A. tenuis; Coelastrea aspera, Platygyra daedalea). Results indicate that fertilisation is optimised at sperm concentrations > 103 sperm mL−1 and contact times > 30 s, but the extent of these relationships is species-specific. All species showed clear differences in fertilisation success across contact times, although these differences were less distinct for A. tenuis and P. daedalea at very high sperm concentrations. Acropora digitifera and P. daedalea exhibited nonlinear trends with steep slopes of increased fertilisation success once sperm concentration surpassed values of 104 sperm mL−1 and 102 sperm mL−1, respectively, followed by slight declines. Acropora tenuis and A. digitifera had the highest maximum fertilisation success, likely owing to beneficial evolved functional traits like large egg sizes. The present analysis underpins studies of fertilisation kinetics in natural reef populations to help inform management and restoration practices that assist population resilience and recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Echinoderms have long been utilized as experimental materials to study the genetic control of developmental processes and their evolution. Among echinoderms, the molecular study of starfish embryos has received considerable attention across research topics such as gene regulatory network evolution and larval regeneration. Recently, experimental techniques to manipulate gene functions have been gradually established in starfish as the feasibility of genome editing methods was reported. However, it is still unclear when these techniques cause genome cleavage during the development of starfish, which is critical to understand the timeframe and applicability of the experiment during early development of starfish. Results: We herein reported that gene functions can be analyzed by the genome editing method TALEN in early embryos, such as the blastula of the starfish Patiria pectinifera. We injected the mRNA of TALEN targeting rar, which was previously constructed, into eggs of P. pectinifera and examined the efficiency of genome cleavage through developmental stages from 6 to 48 hours post fertilization. Conclusion: The results will be key knowledge not only when designing TALEN‐based experiments but also when assessing the results. Key Findings: Molecular study of starfish embryos has received considerable attention in recent years.It is important to establish a robust assay of the genome editing with not only CRISPR/Cas9 but TALEN in starfish.However, it is still unclear when TALEN causes genome cleavage during the development of starfish.The results will be key knowledge not only when designing TALEN‐based experiments but also when assessing the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reasoned fertilization is an essential element of the agroecological approach, which aims first and foremost to improve soil and plant growth. The objective was to examine how slow-release nitrogen fertilizer will perform on the wheat productivity compared to conventional quick-release nitrogen fertilizers. A slow-release nitrogen cover fertilizer Duramon (24% N) was applied to soft wheat and compared to conventional nitrogen fertilizers as well as the local farmer practices. A randomized complete blocks design was adopted with four replications and four sites and repeated during three cropping seasons. Stand density, plant canopy height, tillers/plant, spikes/plant, biological yield, grain yield and harvest index were evaluated. Compared with conventional quick-release nitrogen fertilizers, the slow-release nitrogen significantly (P=0.05) improved tillering, spikes/plant, canopy height, biological yield, grain yield and harvest index. It achieved an average total biomass and grain yields of 3220 kg DM/ha and 978 kg/ha, respectively. The average gains for total biomass and grain yields were 14% and 21%, respectively. However, when compared with the local farmers' practices, the gains obtained were significantly higher, with 123% and 175% for the slow-release N fertilizer and 95% and 128% for the conventional quickrelease N fertilizer, respectively. The harvest index was improved by N application, rising from 25% in local controls up to 30% for slow-release N fertilizers. In conclusion, compared with conventional quick-release nitrogen fertilizers and local practices, the use of slow-release fertilizers with less units of nitrogen applied significantly improved spikes number, biological and grain yields and harvest index, even in dry years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION How do adult offspring in planned lesbian-parent families feel about and relate to their donor (half) sibling(s) (DS)? SUMMARY ANSWER A majority of offspring had found DS and maintained good ongoing relationships, and all offspring (regardless of whether a DS had been identified) were satisfied with their knowledge of and contact level with the DS. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The first generation of donor insemination offspring of intended lesbian-parent families is now in their 30s. Coincident with this is an increased use of DNA testing and genetic ancestry websites, facilitating the discovery of donor siblings from a common sperm donor. Few studies of offspring and their DS include sexual minority parent (SMP) families, and only sparse data separately analyze the offspring of SMP families or extend the analyses to established adult offspring. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This cohort study included 75 adult offspring, longitudinally followed since conception in lesbian-parent families. Quantitative analyses were performed from online surveys of the offspring in the seventh wave of the 36-year study, with a 90% family retention rate. The data were collected from March 2021 to November 2022. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants were 30- to 33-year-old donor insemination offspring whose lesbian parents enrolled in a US prospective longitudinal study when these offspring were conceived. Offspring who knew of a DS were asked about their numbers found, characteristics or motivations for meeting, DS terminology, relationship quality and maintenance, and impact of the DS contact on others. All offspring (with or without known DS) were asked about the importance of knowing if they have DS and their terminology, satisfaction with information about DS, and feelings about future contact. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of offspring, 53% (n = 40) had found DS in modest numbers, via a DS or sperm bank registry in 45% of cases, and most of these offspring had made contact. The offspring had their meeting motivations fulfilled, viewed the DS as acquaintances more often than siblings or friends, and maintained good relationships via meetings, social media, and cell phone communication. They disclosed their DS meetings to most relatives with neutral impact. The offspring, whether with known or unknown DS, felt neutral about the importance of knowing if they had DS, were satisfied with what they knew (or did not know) of the DS, and were satisfied with their current level of DS contact. This study is the largest, longest-running longitudinal study of intended lesbian-parent families and their offspring, and due to its prospective nature, is not biased by over-sampling offspring who were already satisfied with their DS. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The sample was from the USA, and mostly White, highly educated individuals, not representative of the diversity of donor insemination offspring of lesbian-parent families. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS While about half of the offspring found out about DS, the other half did not. Regardless of knowing of a DS, these adult offspring of lesbian parents were satisfied with their level of DS contact. Early disclosure and identity formation about being donor-conceived in a lesbian-parent family may distinguish these study participants from donor insemination offspring and adoptees in the general population, who may be more compelled to seek genetic relatives. The study participants who sought DS mostly found a modest number of them, in contrast to reports in studies that have found large numbers of DS. This may be because one-third of study offspring had donors known to the families since conception, who may have been less likely to participate in commercial sperm banking or internet donation sites, where quotas are difficult to enforce or nonexistent. The study results have implications for anyone considering gamete donation, gamete donors, donor-conceived offspring, and/or gamete banks, as well as the medical and public policy professionals who advise them. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding was provided for this project. The authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work was done in the shade house covered in Saran cloth at the College of Agriculture, University of Basrah, during the agricultural seasons of 2022–2023, to study the effect of nitrogen and potassium treatments on myrtle plants growing under saline stress and their interaction. Urea was used as a nitrogen source at concentrations of (0, 50, 100) mg L-1, and potassium sulfate was used as a potassium source at concentrations of (0, 50, 100) mg L-1. As for saline water, drainage water was used at concentrations of (1, 3, 6) ds.m-1. The results showed what the three study factors did. When the salinity stress level was set to 6 ds.m-1, many of the traits of the plants did better, including their rate of growth, number of stems, leaf area, and percentage of dry matter in their vegetative mass, reaching (76.67 cm, 4.81 branches plant-1, 8.93 cm, 5960 cm2, 60.07 %) respectively. The salinity stress treatment at 1 ds.m-1 outperformed the relative water content % rate and protein ratio % (54.13%, 12.15%), respectively. Meanwhile, the urea treatment at 50 mg L-1 outperformed the rate of vegetative mass dry matter percentage, nitrogen percentage, and protein (58.34%, 1.86%, 11.66%), respectively. A 50 mg L-1 dose of potassium sulphate was used for the treatment outperformed the rate of relative water content, nitrogen, and protein (54.63%, 1.83%, 11.46%), respectively. The binary and tertiary interactions were significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lowering nitrogen inputs is a major goal for sustainable agriculture. In the present study, a set of 10 Solanum melongena introgression lines (ILs) developed using Solanum incanum as the exotic donor parent were grown under two nitrogen fertilization doses supplied with the irrigation system: 1) 8.25 mmol $ L-1 NH4NO3, corresponding to the high nitrogen treatment (HN), and 2) no external nitrogen supply, corresponding to the low nitrogen treatment (LN). Twenty traits, including plant growth and yield parameters, fruit size and morphology, nitrogen and carbon content in leaf and fruit, and phenolics content in fruit, were evaluated. The aim was to select of potential materials for eggplant breeding under low N inputs, as well as to identify and locate putative QTLs associated with the traits evaluated. No significant differences were observed between the soil characteristics of the HN and LN treatments, except for nitrogen and iron content, which was slightly lower in the HN, probably as a consequence of higher nutrient removal from soil by plants in the latter group. Analysis of variance showed that lowering nitrogen inputs did not significantly affect the final yield, fruit morphology, size and phenolics content. Most agronomic traits were highly and positively correlated with each other under both treatments, as well as total phenolics with chlorogenic acid content. The assessment of the differences between each IL and the recipient parent resulted in the identification of 36 QTLs associated with most of the traitsd12 were specific to the HN, 17 specific to the LN, and 7 were stable across treatments. The introgressed fragment of S. incanum generally had a negative effect on the trait, except for QTLs for fruit dry matter, for fruit length on chromosome 10 under the HN, and for fruit pedicel length on chromosome 9 under the LN. The increase over AN-S-26 of the allele of S. incanum for the QTLs detected ranged between -73.98% and 26.03% in HN and -73.67% and 34.43% in LN. These findings provide useful tools for the utilization of S. incanum in eggplant breeding under lower nitrogen fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of internal fertilization has occurred repeatedly and independently across the tree of life. As it has evolved, internal fertilization has reshaped sexual selection and the covariances among sexual traits, such as testes size, and gamete traits. But it is unclear whether fertilization mode also shows evolutionary associations with traits other than primary sex traits. Theory predicts that fertilization mode and body size should covary, but formal tests with phylogenetic control are lacking. We used a phylogenetically controlled approach to test the covariance between fertilization mode and adult body size (while accounting for latitude, offspring size, and offspring developmental mode) among 1,232 species of marine invertebrates from three phyla. Within all phyla, external fertilizers are consistently larger than internal fertilizers: the consequences of fertilization mode extend to traits that are only indirectly related to reproduction. We suspect that other traits may also coevolve with fertilization mode in ways that remain unexplored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is focused on the influence of fertilisation and plant care on the productivity of the black currant variety 'Siuita Kyivska'. Black currant was planted on the Rodnikovka Experimental Farm of the Uman State Agrarian University. Better conditions for the development of such signs as the number of clusters per shrub and the length of a cluster were provided under the application of mineral fertilisation as a background and foliar application of fertiliser Riverm 5%, maintaining of interrow space as clean fallow and mulching plants in the row with straw. The best characteristics of clusters were obtained with N60P90K90 as background fertilisation. Foliar application of fertiliser Riverm 5% resulted in an increased (by 251.2-299.8) number of clusters per plant and longer (by 0.60-0.80 cm) clusters. A combination of clean fallow and application of Riverm 5% against the background of mineral fertilisation resulted in lower indicators of the fruit weight in a cluster compared to the control. This means that the yield structure of black currant under the effect of fertilisation and plant care changes towards an increase in the number of clusters, thereby reducing the number of fruits and the weight of fruits from one cluster. It was also found that foliar application of fertiliser Riverm 5% against the background of mineral fertilisation contributed to an increase in the yield of black currant. In the treatment with clean fallow between rows and mulching plants in rows, application of fertiliser Riverm 3% or 5% against the background of mineral fertilisation N60P90K90, the yield of fruits was 13.1 t/ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Hortícolas is the property of Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Horticolas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Ovarian fluid is essential for successful fertilization by maintaining the viability, motility, and velocity of sperm. The organic compounds and inorganic ions in ovarian fluid significantly influence spermatozoa's motility, velocity, and longevity. However, the effect of ovarian fluid on sperm performance is limited in teleost fish. In this study, the effect of ovarian fluid on sperm performance and its components in external fertilization species (Scophthalmus maximus , turbot) and internal fertilization species (Sebastes schlegelii , black rockfish) was investigated using computer-assisted sperm analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography, and metabolome analysis. The ovarian fluid had a distinct and species-specific effect on both species. In the black rockfish, the ovarian fluid from turbot significantly increased sperm motility (74.07% ± 4.09%), as well as VCL (45 ± 1.67 μm/s), VAP (40.17 ± 1.6 μm/s), and VSL (36.67 ± 1.86 μm/s), and longevity (352 ± 11.31 min) (P < 0.05). In the turbot, only the longevity (71.33 ± 5.69 min) and fertilization rate (65.27% ± 11.59%) showed significantly improvement (P < 0.05). The ovarian fluid was rich in organic compounds, suggesting enrichment in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways. The results suggest that glycometabolism plays a crucial role in improving sperm performance in teleost with internal fertilization. Thus, incorporating ovarian fluid into the sperm activation medium can enhance artificial fertilization in fish breeding. • Ovarian fluid has different effect in turbot and black rockfish. • Ovarian fluid enhanced sperm motility in black rockfish. • Ovarian fluid significantly prolonged sperm longevity in turbot and black rockfish. • Ovarian fluid may provide energy for sperm survival and extended longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment on brood rearing and induced breeding of the near threatened fish species Raikor, Cirrhinus reba using the pituitary gland (PG), was conducted from March to August 2020 at the Floodplain Sub-station of Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Santahar, Bogura. Broods were collected and reared in the ponds of the hatchery complex. The total length (cm), body weight (g), gonad weight (g), and gonado-somatic index (%) of this species were measured during the rearing period. To standardize the breeding technique, a total of 90 brood fish of C. reba were treated with different doses of PG, specifically, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0 mg/kg body weight for females and 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 mg/kg body weight for males in different treatments, namely T1, T2, and T3 respectively. A significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in fecundity, ovulation (%), and the fertilization rate (%) among the treatments. Based on the results, T2 (4.0 mg/kg body weight for females, 2.0 mg/kg body weight for males) produced the most favorable results. The current observations could be applied to C. reba stimulated breeding for the advancement of hatchery formation. More research on the nursing, nurturing, and culture of the near-threatened C. reba at varied densities and feedings is necessary for their conservation and restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen is one of the most critical elements for plants and herbivores because it is the main component of amino acids and nucleic acids. Understanding the relationship between nitrogen fertilization and the biology and reproductive potential of pests are critical in integrated pest management programs. This study evaluated the effects of nitrogen fertilization on the biology and life history traits of the jujube lace bug, Monosteira alticarinata Ghauri, feeding on jujube trees. The fertilizer treatments were administered at 0, 50, and 100% of recommended rates. The results showed that the lace bugs reared on plants receiving no nitrogen fertilization had a significantly longer total developmental time, shorter adult longevity, and lower fecundity than those reared on the other treatments. The lace bugs that fed on plants fertilized at the highest nitrogen fertilization level had the highest fecundity compared to those reared on other treatments. The net reproduction, mean generation time, gross reproductive rate, finite rate of increase and intrinsic rate of natural increase of lace bugs feeding on plants treated with the highest nitrogen dose were the highest, but doubling time was the lowest. The present data suggest that increasing nitrogen availability to the plants has the potential to increase population of the jujube lace bug and its damage to jujube trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to see the optimal level of fertilization in oil palms so that the macro and micronutrients are sufficient for the growth of oil palms. This research was carried out in the nursery area of the Soil Management Field Laboratory of the Indonesian Palm Oil Institute, Medan by observing soil characteristics. Soil analysis at the Soil, Plant, Fertilizer, and Water Laboratory at the Johor Agricultural Technology Study Center, North Sumatra, and the Analysis Laboratory at the Medan Oil Palm Research Center by observing soil analysis on chemical, physical, and cation exchange properties, as well as vegetative and fresh weight observations and dry plants. The study used a Completely Randomized Block Design where seedling height, stem circumference, number of leaf midribs, and leaf sheath length had the highest values in the sowing fertilization technique, as well as in the fresh weight of roots, shoots, and dry weight of roots, crowns also had the highest values in the sowing technique compared to sachets. and drip fertigation. This indicates that the growth and development of oil palm seedlings in the main nursery for PPKS 540 and SP-1 (Dumpy) varieties showed a positive response to the best growth increase in the sowing fertilization technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In bulls, semen quality is decisive in the fertilization process. In addition to routine tests, it´s important to assess the functionality of the plasma membrane and the integrity of the acrosomal membrane. To evaluate the plasmatic membrane, we have the HOS test and for the acrosomal membrane, Coomassie blue staining. The aim of this study was to jointly assess the functionality of the plasma membrane using the HOS test and the integrity of the acrosomal membrane using Coomassie Blue staining. Fifty-two straws (0.25 ml) of commercial frozen bovine semen were analyzed. Smears of semen samples submitted to the HOS test were made and then stained with Coomassie Blue. As control, the conventional HOS technique was used. The results obtained (Wilcoxon test p= 0.3625; Spearman test: 0.81) indicate that there are no significant differences between the techniques. We conclude that the combination of HOS with Coomassie Blue is equivalent to the HOS technique used routinely in our laboratory. The combination of the HOS test with Coomassie Blue allows us to perform a double determination on the same smear and can be carried out in any lowcomplexity laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrient fertilization is usually neglected by producers, especially for peanut, a crop that is frequently grown in crop rotation systems due to its low perceived nutrient requirements. New peanut cultivars are able to achieve high yields when grown under suitable conditions. However, fertilization recommendation tables are dated and do not consider the need for micronutrients. To support improvements in these recommendations, this study quantified the micronutrient demand (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) of three runner peanut cultivars (IAC Runner 886, IAC 505, and IAC OL3) during the biological cycle and the transport of these micronutrients to pods and kernels. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block with a split-plot design and nine replications. The whole plots consisted of the three peanut cultivars, and the subplots comprised nine plant samplings (at 14, 28, 42, 56, 70, 84, 105, 126, and 147 days after emergence (DAE)). These modern peanut cultivars exhibited high uptake and accumulation of Fe, but the proportion of Fe removed by pods and kernels was lowest among all analyzed micronutrients. The second-most-accumulated micronutrient was Mn. The maximum requirement for micronutrients of peanut occurred around 84 DAE, and IAC 505 had the highest micronutrient uptake and accumulation among the cultivars (especially at later stages), followed by IAC OL3 and IAC Runner 886. Our results provide new insights into micronutrient requirements for peanut and demonstrate the need for new fertilizer recommendation programs for peanut cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Croatian Nursing Journal is the property of University of Applied Health Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

STUDY QUESTION Can recurrent embryo developmental problems after ICSI be overcome by assisted oocyte activation (AOA)? SUMMARY ANSWER AOA did not improve blastocyst formation in our patient cohort with recurrent embryo developmental problems after ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The use of AOA to artificially induce calcium (Ca2+) rises by using Ca2+ ionophores (mainly calcimycin and ionomycin) has been reported as very effective in overcoming fertilization failure after ICSI, especially in patients whose Ca2+ dynamics during fertilization are deficient. However, there is only scarce and contradictory literature on the use of AOA to overcome embryo developmental problems after ICSI, and it is not clear whether abnormal Ca2+ patterns during fertilization disturb human preimplantation embryo development. Moreover, poor embryo development after ICSI has also been linked to genetic defects in the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) genes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort single-center study compared ICSI-AOA cycles and previous ICSI cycles in couples with normal fertilization rates (≥60%) but impaired embryonic development (≤15% blastocyst formation) in at least two previous ICSI cycles. In total, 42 couples with embryo developmental problems were included in this study from January 2018 to January 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Of the 42 couples included, 17 underwent an ICSI-AOA cycle consisting of CaCl2 injection and double ionomycin exposure. Fertilization, blastocyst development, pregnancy, and live birth rates after ICSI-AOA were compared to previous ICSI cycles. In addition, the calcium pattern induced by the male patient's sperm was investigated by mouse oocyte calcium analysis. Furthermore, all 42 couples underwent genetic screening. Female patients were screened for SCMC genes (TLE6 , PADI6 , NLRP2 , NLRP5 , NLRP7 , and KHDC3L) and male patients were screened for the sperm–oocyte-activating factor PLCZ1. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We compared 17 AOA cycles to 44 previous ICSI cycles from the same patient cohort. After AOA, a total fertilization rate of 68.95% (131/190), a blastocyst development rate of 13.74% (18/131), a pregnancy rate of 29.41% (5/17), and a live birth rate of 23.53% (4/17) were achieved, which was not different from the previous ICSI cycles (76.25% (321/421, P -value = 0.06); 9.35% (30/321, P -value = 0.18), 25.00% (11/44, P -value = 0.75), and 15.91% (7/44, P -value = 0.48), respectively). Calcium analysis showed that patient's sperm induced calcium patterns similar to control sperm samples displaying normal embryo developmental potential. Genetic screening revealed 10 unique heterozygous variants (in NLRP2 , NLRP5 , NLRP7 , TLE6 , and PADI6) of uncertain significance (VUS) in 14 females. Variant NLRP5 c.623-12_623-11insTTC (p.?) was identified in two unrelated individuals and variant NLRP2 c.1572T>C (p.Asp524=) was identified in four females. Interestingly, we identified a previously reported homozygous mutation PLCZ1 , c.1499C>T (p.Ser500Leu), in a male patient displaying impaired embryonic development, but not showing typical fertilization failure. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our strict inclusion criteria, requiring at least two ICSI cycles with impaired embryo development, reduced cycle-to-cycle variability, while the requirement of a lower blastocyst development not influenced by a poor fertilization excluded couples who otherwise would be selective cases for AOA; however, these criteria limited the sample size of this study. Targeted genetic screening might be too restricted to identify a genetic cause underlying the phenotype of poor embryo development for all patients. Moreover, causality of the identified VUS should be further determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Strong evidence for AOA overcoming impaired embryonic development is still lacking in the literature. Thus far, only one article has reported a beneficial effect of AOA (using calcimycin) compared to previous ICSI cycles in this patient population, whilst two more recent sibling-oocyte control studies (one using calcimycin and the other ionomycin) and our research (using ionomycin) could not corroborate these findings. Although no major abnormalities have been found in children born after AOA, this technique should be reserved for couples with a clear Ca2+-release deficiency. Finally, genetic screening by whole-exome sequencing may reveal novel genes and variants linked to embryo developmental problems and allow the design of more personalized treatment options, such as wild-type complementary RNA or recombinant protein injection. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Flemish Fund for Scientific Research (grant FWO.OPR.2015.0032.01 to B.H. and grant no. 1298722N to A.B.). A.C.B. D.B. A.B. V.T. R.P. F.M. I.D.C. L.L. D.S. P.D.S. P.C. and F.V.M. have nothing to disclose. B.H. reports a research grant from the Flemish Fund for Scientific Research and reports being a board member of the Belgian Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Belgian Ethical Committee on embryo research. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03354013 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Outline the views of Italian women, with fertility problems, on Medically Assisted Procreation. Methods. We have collected the opinions of 448 infertile women. The items used in the questionnaire were created with a qualitative method based on the Medically Assisted Procreation's most important bioethics issues and on the basis of the limits imposed by Law. The questions of the first part of the questionnaire were open; in the second part was closed ("Yes/No"); for each method they were asked whether they would introduce a legal limit to prohibit it. The tests have been standardized with test-retest method. Results. We found that much of the disputes that have, over time, been made to Law 40 of 2004 by Italian Courts, are shared by patients with infertility problems. Italian women do not share the legal limit for Medically Assisted Procreation in over 43 women, heterologous insemination with seed donation and egg donation. Moreover, our sample show that Italian women do not share legal limit to pre-implantation genetic diagnosis and cryopreservation of embryos. Moreover, it emerges that many Italian infertile patients disagree with the Medically Assisted Procreation for homosexual couples. Conclusion. It will be important, in the event of a legislative reform in Italy on the Medically Assisted Procreation, also consider the point of view of women with infertility problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fédida notes the extraordinary elasticity of organs (xx) and arrives at the striking formulation "sight is an affect of the organ". Fédida reiterates this language of "mastery" of the ego over the organ, which I believe is active in Freud's work. In this respect, Fédida effectively agrees with Freud when he argues that the human organ of sight is an assimilation of the genital organ and that castration (anxiety) cannot be dissociated from the physiological function of vision. Towards a Psychoanalysis of Organs: Fédida and Ferenczi Pierre Fédida's text starts from castration anxiety and ends with castration anxiety, but the trajectory it follows in this closing of the circle is an ingenious one. [Extracted from the article]