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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]

Sex control techniques are in great demand for aquaculture because of the huge benefits of mono-sex production. In a previous study on yellow catfish (Tachysurus fulvidraco), intersex individuals were produced by administrating 17a-methyltestosterone (MT) or aromatase inhibitor letrozole (LZ). The ovarian and testicular portions of intersexual gonads developed well and were completely separated, arousing our interest in producing selffertilizable fish and clone-like fish populations. In this study, yellow catfish fry were treated with a combination of MT and LZ at a low dose (5 mg kg-1 MT, 300 mg kg-1 LZ) at a low water temperature (27.0 °C, mixed sexproducing temperature, LL group) and a high temperature (33.5 °C, male-producing temperature, HL group), and with a high dose (10 mg kg-1 MT, 600 mg kg-1 LZ) at a low water temperature (LH group), during 12-65 days post-hatching, the critical period of sex differentiation. Both XX and XY intersex were produced with different percentages at the same time through co-treatment with MT and LZ, with or without the help of male-producing temperature. The highest percentage of XY intersex (53% in XY, 36% in XX and XY) and XX intersex (47% in XX, 25% in XX and XY) was produced in LH and HL groups, respectively. Results of gonadal morphology, histology, and sperm dynamic analysis indicate that some XX and XY intersex individuals were capable of self-fertilization through artificial insemination. The reproductive performance of these intersex individuals was then investigated by injecting spawning agents, dissecting gonads, and artificially fertilizing eggs with their own sperm. The XX, XY, and YY genotypic individuals were produced by the self-fertilization of XY intersex individuals. The present study successfully produced high percentages of XX and XY intersex and conducted self-fertilization by mating the eggs and sperm of a single intersex individual. Self-fertilization in fish will show great potential in aquaculture genetics and breeding, for example, generating highly homozygous (or "clonal") genetic material, producing mono-sex populations, and identifying unknown sex determination modes. In particular, the cloning method of producing genetic materials will be greatly beneficial for maintaining advantageous traits through self-fertilization generation after generation. [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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

The Orthodox Church has always taught that human life begins at conception when a sperm fuses with an egg to produce a living, genetically unique being. Just as the Church takes special care of helpless and defenseless human beings, so much more does she take care of human embryos and unborn babies, that is, helpless beings. By accepting and legislating the artificial interruption of pregnancy, paradoxically, hospitals and maternity hospitals, places meant to protect and give life, became cemeteries for those who were to see the light of day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stress such as high temperature at flowering is one of many conditions reducing yield of corn (Zea mays L.). Mixing corn cultivars with diverse functional traits increases within-crop diversity and provides a potential means of mitigating yield losses under stress conditions. We conducted a three-year field study to investigate the effects of cultivar mixtures on kernel setting rate, pollen sources, and yield. This study consisted of six treatments, including two high temperature-tolerant (HTT) monocrops of WK702 and DH701, two high temperature-sensitive (HTS) monocrops of DH605 and DH662, and two HTT-HTS mixtures of WK702-DH605 and DH701-DH662. The anthesis-silking interval (ASI) was 0.9-1.6 days shorter in mixtures than in monocrops. Kernel setting rate was increased in mixtures (86.4%-88.7%) compared with those in monocrops (74.7%-84.1%) as a result of synchrony and complementarity of pollination. Grain yields of the HTT-HTS mixtures increased by 13.3%-18.7%, equivalent to 1169 to 1605 kg ha-1, in comparison with HTS corn monocrops. The results of SSR markers showed that crossfertilization percentage in corn cultivar mixtures ranged from 29.3% to 47.8%, partially explaining yield improvement. Land equivalent ratio (LER) was 1.12 for corn mixtures and the partial land equivalent ratio (e.g., > 0.5) showed the complementary benefits in corn mixtures. The results indicated that mixing corn cultivars with diverse flowering and drought-tolerance traits increased yields via pollination synchrony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the effects of different nutrient source used for soil fertilization were detected on cooking characters of chickpea varieties. The field experiment was conducted in 2020 growing seasons. The experiment was designed randomized complete blocks in split plots with three replications. In study, it was used Arda, Gokce and local chickpea varieties in main plots. Four organic manures, one biofertilizer and chemical fertilizer (T0: control group, T1: 5 t.ha-1 ovine manure, T2: 5 t.ha-1 cattle manure, T3: 10.000 cc ha-1 liquid vermicompost, T4: 3 t.ha-1 chicken manure, T5: bacteria (Rhizobium ciceri) and T6: 50 kg ha-1 N, 90 kg ha-1 P) were in the sub plots. Comparison of two-way ANOVA test showed that fertilization treatments were no significant for all seed technological characters except for cooking time. Two-way ANOVA test revealed that chickpea varieties was determined superior than treatment and variety * treatment interaction on all characters except for swelling capacity and index. Dry weight, wet weight, dry volume, wet volume and hydration capacity traits varied depending on varieties. The liquid vermicompost treatment (Arda: 38.67 min) and chemical fertilizer (local variety: 40.00 min) showed the shortest cooking time than the other nutrient sources. On the contrary, local variety had the longest cooking time in ovine manure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Titelei" was published in the journal "GesR: Gesundheitsrecht" (Health Law). It is the issue from October 20, 2022, with a length of 613-680 pages. The journal covers topics such as medical law, hospital law, pharmacy law, and drug law. This issue presents various essays and legal decisions on different subjects, including postmortem fertilization, advance care planning in psychiatry, and the fee schedule for dentists. The journal is edited by lawyer Prof. Dr. Martin Rehborn and lawyer Dr. Rudolf Ratzel. Further information and orders are available on the website www.medstra-online.de. [Extracted from the article]

Aims: Debate over the optimal timing of oocyte denudation following oocyte retrieval continues. Multinucleation has been associated with lower embryo quality and implantation rate. Defining oocyte characteristics might increase the chances of better embryo selection. This study aimed to investigate the laboratory and clinical outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection when the oocytes were denuded immediately after oocyte retrieval. Methods: A prospective randomized sibling-oocyte study was performed. The participants were under 40 years of age with more than 5 oocytes. Patients with male factors were excluded. The study and control groups were formed by simple randomization. The study group underwent oocyte denudation immediately. In the control group, oocytes were routinely incubated in an equilibration solution for 2 h until the removal of the cumulus cells. Outcome measures were normal fertilization (two pronuclei, 2PN), multinucleation rate, the proportion of good quality embryos, blastocyst formation, and pregnancy rate. Results: A total of 792 oocytes were collected from 54 participants (mean age: 30.6±3.7 years). The fertilization rate was higher in the study group (n=209 in 376) compared with the controls (n=201 in 416) (55.6% vs. 48.3%, p=0.041). The multinucleation rate (6.6% vs. 4.3%, p=0.150), proportion of grade 1 embryos on day 3 (48.7% vs. 43%, p=0.112) and day 5 (27.7% vs. 23.8%, p=0.214), the proportion of embryos reaching blastocyst stage (34.0% vs. 28.1%, p=0.072), and the pregnancy rates (78.6% vs. 71.4%, p=1.000) were similar. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that immediate removal of cumulus cells does not have any negative impact on intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many people believe that human beings begin to exist with the emergence of the 1-cell zygote at fertilization. I present a novel argument against this belief, one based on recently discovered facts about human embryo development. I first argue that a human zygote is developmentally plastic: A zygote that naturally develops into a singleton (i.e., develops into exactly one infant/adult without twinning) might have naturally developed into a numerically different singleton. From this, I derive the conclusion that a human infant or adult is numerically distinct from the zygote she came from and so did not begin to exist at fertilization. This implies that a zygote does not have a "future like ours" and strongly suggests that it is not a human being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common wheat occupies the largest area of cultivated land in the world due to its many attributes and easy, fully mechanized cultivation technology. During 2019/2022 at A.R.D.S. Secuieni, the behavior of some genotypes in the pedoclimatic conditions of Central Moldova was experimented. The yields and quality of the genotypes varied from one year to another, being influenced by the climatic conditions; the most favorable agricultural year for the winter wheat crop was 2020/2021, in which the yields of the genotypes were between 10189 kg/ha (Semnal) and 5798 kg/ha (T 42-17). The yields of the studied genotypes varied between 4527 kg/ha (Ursita variety in the agricultural year 2019/2020) and 10189 kg/ha (Semnal variety, in the agricultural year 2020/2021). From a qualitative point of view, the highest protein content was 17,0%, a percentage recorded by the Bezostaia variety in the 2020/2021 agricultural year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egg yolk is one of the most widely used cryoprotective components of extenders, especially for the cryopreservation of mammalian species’ sperm cells. However, there is a lack of information regarding their efficacy in cryopreservation of fish sperm cells. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to compare the effectiveness of egg yolk from different avian species (duck, goose, and chicken) on post-thaw quality and fertilization ability of scaly carp (Cyprinus carpio) semen following cryopreservation. Sperm samples diluted with the sucrose-based extender at the ratio of 1:10 were supplemented with 10, 15, and 20% ratios of different avian egg yolks. In the control group, sperm samples were diluted with the sucrose-based extender, without egg yolk. Following dilution, sperm samples were equilibrated at +4⁰C for 10 min and aspirated into 0.25-ml straws. Then, sperm samples were frozen 3 cm above the liquid nitrogen (LN2) surface and plunged directly into the LN2. The frozen sperm cells were thawed in a water bath at 35 ⁰C for 30 s and fertilization was carried out using a 1x105 spermatozoa/egg ratio. Based on the results, supplementation of sperm cells with 20 % duck egg yolk in a sucrose-based extender exhibited the best post-thaw progressive motility (67.8 ±1.24%), progressive motility duration (32.6 ±1.45 s), viability (82.4 ±1.36%), and fertility (92.6 ±1.28%) compared to the control group (P<0.05). The results of the experiment showed that duck egg yolk could be used as an alternative instead of chicken egg yolk in a sucrose-based extender for the cryopreservation of scaly carp sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfluidics offers tremendous opportunities to understand the underlying biology of fertilization at the single-cell level and improve infertility management, however, its true clinical impact is yet to be realized. Lab-on-a-chip devices have generally failed to diffuse into clinical practice due to issues associated with their translation or their practicality and performance in clinical settings. In this perspective, I reflect on how the full potential of microfluidic technologies for fertility can be realized by considering regulatory and manufacturing considerations at the development stage and by redefining our developmental goals to directly target the ultimate clinical needs. I also challenge the common rationale around developing technologies for infertility treatment based on reducing cost and complexity in operation as the ultimate outcome is invaluable, human life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenically elevated CO2 (eCO2) concentrations have been suggested to increase woody cover within tropical ecosystems through fertilization. The effect of eCO2 is built into Earth system models, although testing the relationship over long periods remains challenging. Here, we explore the relative importance of six drivers of vegetation change in western Africa over the past ~500,000 years (moisture availability, fire activity, mammalian herbivore density, temperature, temperature seasonality, CO2) by coupling past environmental change data from Lake Bosumtwi (Ghana) with global data. We found that moisture availability and fire activity were the most important factors in determining woody cover, whereas the effect of CO2 was small. Our findings suggest that the role of eCO2 effects on tropical vegetation in predictive models must be reconsidered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction to articles published within the issue is presented in which the editors discuss topics on the phenomenon of cross-fertilization, the connection between medicine and literature, and strategies of self-care.

The study investigated the influence of traditional nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) mineral fertilizers and nano-fertilizers on yield, and its attributes, and fiber characters of two Egyptian cotton varieties Giza 94 and Giza 96. The design of the experiment was a split- plot with four replicates. Results indicated that Giza 94 cultivar surpassed Giza 96 in agronomic characteristics, although Giza 96 exhibited the highest fiber reading. Nano-chitosan (NPK)-fertilization significantly improved the mean value of boll weight, seed yield, lint yield, lint percentage, upper half mean (UHM ), fiber uniformity index, fiber tenacity, and Micronaire value in both seasons. Conversely, the most minimal values for the aforementioned characteristics were recorded with the control NPK fertilizer over the two seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intensive industrial and power sectors generate huge amounts of diverse wastes which have detrimental consequences for the environment if not properly managed. Fly ash is one of the most complex and abundant anthropogenic wastes and has traditionally been considered as highly problematic for the treatment and disposal. Being dumped on indigenous and community lands, FA-wastes block their usage and contaminate terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. These detrimental processes lead to chronic pollution and degradation of waters, soils, and air. Our previous pilot studies implied that the addition of coal-derived substances to soil help to improve soil physicochemical and biological properties stimulating plant growth and enhancing crop yield. The main advantage of FA as compared to many other inorganic amendments is that it can be easily engineeringly optimized due to its precisely characterized chemical composition, a specific combination of surface properties, and hierarchical porosity. The use of beneficial soil microorganisms as well as HA in combination with FA can potentially stimulate crop production through biofertilization mechanisms, including biological nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, phytohormone production, and biocontrol processes. Thus, PGPR is a key factor in maintaining soil fertility as a candidate for FA-HA composite engineering and co-inoculation could be an excellent application. The aim of the proposed research is to develop technology for the production of highly efficient biotechnological fertilizer of new-generation - FA-HA-PGPR. Synthesis of novel fertilizers by a combination of FA with traditionally used farmyard manure, digestate, compost, and sludge has a very promising potential. However, the ecological and biogeological behavior of FA is not yet adequately studied. Engineering of quality FA-based products requires determination of the nutrient release characteristics and detailed examination of its performance for various soil types and agroecological conditions. As a result, FA-HA-PGPR will be engineered and functionalized as a new fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorosis at leaf margins is a typical symptom of potassium (K) deficiency, but inappropriate application of K with other nutrients often masks symptoms of K deficiency. A two-year field experiment was conducted to measure the interactive effects of N and K on leaf photosynthesis and dry matter accumulation and the resulting growth dilution effect on K concentration and leaf K deficiency symptoms. N application aggravated the imbalance of N and K nutrients and further exacerbated K deficiency symptoms under K limitation. Synergistic effects of N and K promoted plant growth, amplified the growth dilution effect, and reduced the critical K concentration in leaves. Using 90% of the maximum shoot biomass as a threshold, the critical K concentration was 0.72% at the recommended N (N180) fertilization level. The critical K concentration increased by 62.5% owing to the reduced biomass under insufficient N (N90) supply. In contrast, high N (N270) reduced the critical K concentration (0.64%), accelerating chlorophyll decomposition and exacerbating K deficiency symptoms. The basis of changing the critical K concentration by magnifying growth dilution effect was the functional synergistic effect of N and K on photosynthetic characteristics. Under insufficient N, the low maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax) limited the net photosynthetic rate (An) and necessitated more K to maintain high CO2 transmission capacity, to improve the total conductance gtot /Vcmax ratio. High N supply increased gtot and Vcmax, possibly mitigating the effect of K reduction on photosynthesis. In conclusion, it is unwise to judge K status of plants only by K concentration without accounting for crop mass (or dilution effect), critical K concentration and deficiency symptoms are affected by N fertilization, and the synergistic effect of N and K on leaf photosynthesis is the foundation of maximal growth of plants under diverse critical K concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is insufficient evidence regarding the impact of dual trigger on oocyte maturity and reproductive outcomes in high responders. Thus, we aimed to explore the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) trigger alone or combined with different low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) regimens on rates of oocyte maturation and cumulative live birth in high responders who underwent a freeze-all strategy in GnRH antagonist cycles.Methods: A total of 1343 cycles were divided into three groups according to different trigger protocols: group A received GnRHa 0.2 mg (n = 577), group B received GnRHa 0.2 mg and hCG 1000 IU (n = 403), and group C received GnRHa 0.2 mg and hCG 2000 IU (n = 363).Results: There were no significant differences in age, body mass index, and rates of oocyte maturation, fertilization, available embryo, and top-quality embryo among the groups. However, the incidence of moderate to severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) was significantly different among the three groups (0% in group A, 1.49% in group B, and 1.38% in group C). For the first frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle, there were no significant differences in the number of transferred embryos and rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, live birth, and early miscarriage among the three groups. Additionally, the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate were not significantly different among the three groups. Similarly, there were no significant differences in gestational age, birth weight, birth height, and the proportion of low birth weight among subgroups stratified by singleton or twin.Conclusions: GnRHa trigger combined with low-dose hCG (1000 IU or 2000 IU) did not improve oocyte maturity and embryo quality and was still associated with an increased risk of moderate to severe OHSS. Therefore, for high responders treated with the freeze-all strategy, the single GnRHa trigger is recommended for final oocyte maturation, which can prevent the occurrence of moderate to severe OHSS and obtain satisfactory pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in subsequent FET cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil palm (Elaeis Guineensis Jagc.) is an oil palm plant belonging to the palm group which is an annual plant, oil palm is also a source of non-oil and gas foreign exchange for Indonesia. This research activity was carried out at PT. Socfindo Kebun seunagan, Nagan Raya, West Sumatra from 18 November 2021 to 16 December 2021. Research activities are specifically at learning and improving technical and managerial skills. The data obtained are primary data (direct) and secondary data (indirect). Primary data is data that the author directly observed during his internship at PT. Socfindo, in the form of plant height, stem diameter, and number of leaves. Direct observations to determine technical activities in the field and compared to standards, as well as direct discussions with workers and staff about oil palm nurseries. Secondary data obtained from daily reports, monthly reports and plant archives, secondary data includes climate, fertilization, organizational structure and matters related to labor. Observations on the vegetative growth of oil palm seedlings are expected to achieve appropriate growth. The purpose of this observation activity is to improve understanding, and technical skills, as well as to analyze oil palm nursery activities at the Pre-nursery and Main nursery stages at PT. Socfindo Seunagan Gardens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aggrandised advancement in utility of advanced day-to-day materials and nanomaterials has raised serious concern on their biocompatibility with human and other biotic members. In last few decades, understanding of toxicity of these materials has been given the centre stage of research using many in vitro and in vivo models. Zebrafish (Danio rerio), a freshwater fish and a member of the minnow family has garnered much attention due to its distinct features, which make it an important and frequently used animal model in various fields of embryology and toxicological studies. Given that fertilization and development of zebrafish eggs take place externally, they serve as an excellent model organism for studying early developmental stages. Moreover, zebrafish possess a comparable genetic composition to humans and share almost 70% of their genes with mammals. This particular model organism has become increasingly popular, especially for developmental research. Moreover, it serves as a link between in vitro studies and in vivo analysis in mammals. It is an appealing choice for vertebrate research, when employing high-throughput methods, due to their small size, swift development, and relatively affordable laboratory setup. This small vertebrate has enhanced comprehension of pathobiology and drug toxicity. This review emphasizes on the recent developments in toxicity screening and assays, and the new insights gained about the toxicity of drugs through these assays. Specifically, the cardio, neural, and, hepatic toxicology studies inferred by applications of nanoparticles have been highlighted. [Display omitted] • Zebrafish have a similar genetic structure to humans for genotoxicity analysis. • Omics technologies are used for evaluation in investigational toxicology. • Detailed investigation of toxicity is defined. • The Zebrafish model system follows the 3 Rs of animal model research studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilization of an egg by multiple sperm (polyspermy) leads to lethal genome imbalance and chromosome segregation defects. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the block to polyspermy is facilitated by a mechanism that prevents polytubey (the arrival of multiple pollen tubes to one ovule). We show here that FERONIA, ANJEA, and HERCULES RECEPTOR KINASE 1 receptor-like kinases located at the septum interact with pollen tube-specific RALF6, 7, 16, 36, and 37 peptide ligands to establish this polytubey block. The same combination of RALF (rapid alkalinization factor) peptides and receptor complexes controls pollen tube reception and rupture inside the targeted ovule. Pollen tube rupture releases the polytubey block at the septum, which allows the emergence of secondary pollen tubes upon fertilization failure. Thus, orchestrated steps in the fertilization process in Arabidopsis are coordinated by the same signaling components to guarantee and optimize reproductive success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptive value of sexual reproduction is still debated. A short‐term disadvantage of asexual reproduction is loss of heterozygosity, which leads to the unmasking of recessive deleterious mutations. The cost of this loss of complementation is predicted to be higher than the twofold cost of meiosis for most types of asexual reproduction. Automixis with terminal fusion of sister nuclei is especially vulnerable to the effect of loss of complementation. It is found, however, in some taxa including oribatid mites, the most prominent group of ancient asexuals. Here, I show that automixis with terminal fusion is stable if it is associated with inverted meiosis and that this appears to be the case in nature, notably in oribatid mites. The existence of automixis with terminal fusion, and its co‐occurrence with inverted meiosis, therefore, is consistent with the hypothesis that loss of complementation is important in the evolution of sexual reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is the mechanism by which human follicular fluid inhibits seminal plasma DNase activity? Human genomic DNA was incubated with human follicular fluid and seminal plasma (reaction mixture) under different experimental conditions; increasing volumes of human follicular fluid; proteinase K digested or heat inactivated human follicular fluid; and the addition of Ca2+ or Mg2+ to the reaction mixture. Increasing volume of human follicular fluid resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of seminal plasma DNase activity. Inhibition was not caused by proteins in the human follicular fluid as digestion with proteinase K or heat inactivation of human follicular fluid failed to abolish its inhibitory effect. Addition of divalent cations resulted in a reversion of the inhibitory effect, providing evidence that human follicular fluid inhibition of seminal plasma DNase activity seems to be mediated by a compound with chelating activity. Furthermore, incubation of genomic DNA with human follicular fluid in the presence of divalent cations served to elicit the existence of DNase activity. Human follicular fluid seems to contain a molecule or molecules with chelating capacity that inhibits DNase activity of both follicular fluid and seminal plasma. Our findings provide new insight to understanding sperm preservation and the physiology of fertilization biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is the main nutrient for plant nutrition, however, its fertilization management is still very complex. To evaluate wheat N utilization efficiency (NUtE) and yield in response to N fertilization management considering the influence of environmental conditions,  an experiment was carried out in three field conditions in Southern Brazil: Londrina in rainfed and irrigation conditions, and Ponta Grossa  in rainfed. A complete (2 × 2 × 2) + 1 factorial arrangement evaluated two N rates (40 and 80 kg ha-1), two N sources (ammonium nitrate and urea), two N timings of fertilization (at sowing or at the beginning of plant tillering), and additional treatment without  N fertilization. Agronomic characteristics related to wheat productivity and N plant nutrition were evaluated. Irrigation increased the  density of fertile spikes and the N accumulated in the shoot dry matter at anthesis, which partially explained the better grain yield in  the irrigated condition. The higher N accumulation in the shoot dry matter was essential for grain yield increase in the environments  with lower water deficit, based on their higher NUtE for grain yield. Nitrogen fertilization reduced NUtE for grain yield in Londrina (in  rainfed and irrigation conditions), and increased NUtE for shoot dry matter production in all environments. In a colder condition (i.e.  Ponta Grossa), the use of a higher N rate at sowing provided greater grain yield, thousand-grain weight, and density of fertile spikes.  Nitrogen rate can be reduced in warmer and wetter environmental conditions that favor the mineralization of soil organic matter and  the decomposition of soybean straw. The choice for urea or ammonium nitrate can be based on economic criteria in environments with  low water deficit and low potential for NH3 volatilization. Nitrogen fertilization carried out exclusively at wheat sowing may be suitable to supply spring wheat N requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of Sakha Agricultural Research Station (Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate), Agricultural Research Center, Egypt, during two successive seasons of 2019 and 2020 to study the performance of two Egyptian cotton varieties, i.e., Giza 94 and Giza 97 as affected by foliar spray with natural extracts and mineral fertilization rates, i.e., control (full dose of mineral fertilization rates with 60 kg N, 30 Kg P2O5 and 48 kg K2O/fed [A], 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea, 75 % A and foliar spray of algae extract, 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extract, 50 % A and foliar spray of compost tea, 50 % A and foliar spray of algae extract and 50 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts on cotton vegetative growth, yield components, yield, fiber and yarn properties. The experiments were laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replicates. Growing the promising cotton variety of Giza 97 significantly gave the maximum mean values of No. of sympodial/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, boll weight, lint %, seed cotton yield/fed, lint cotton yield/fed, upper half mean length, length uniformity index, fiber bundle strength, fiber elongation %, micronaire value, fiber yellowness degree and lea count strength product in addition to produce the lowest mean values of plant height, fiber brightness degree, yarn unevenness/100 m and No. of neps/100 m in both seasons. The highest mean values of plant height, No. of sympodial/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, boll weight, lint %, seed cotton yield/fed, lint cotton yield/fed, upper half mean length, fiber bundle strength, fiber elongation %, micronaire value, fiber brightness degree and lea count strength product in addition to the lowest fiber yellowness degree and No. of neps/100 m were obtained from Egyptian cotton plants treated by 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts, followed by 75 % A with foliar spray of algae extract treatment in both seasons. Egyptian cotton variety of Giza 97 when received 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts produced the highest mean values of No. of sympodial/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, boll weight, lint %, seed cotton yield/fed, lint cotton yield/fed, fiber bundle strength, micronaire value and lea count strength product as well as recorded the lowest mean values of No. of neps/100 m in the first and second seasons. Based on the previous results it could be concluded that, growing promising cotton variety of Giza 97 treated by 75 % A along with foliar spray of compost tea and algae extract treatment produced the maximum seed cotton yield and lint cotton yield as well as the properties fiber and yarn have improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of Sakha Agricultural Research Station (Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate), Agricultural Research Center, Egypt, during two successive seasons of 2019 and 2020 to study the effect of foliar spray with natural extracts and mineral fertilization treatments, i.e., control (full dose of mineral fertilization rates with 60 kg N, 30 Kg P2O5 and 48 kg K2O/fed [A], 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea, 75 % A and foliar spray of algae extract, 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts, 50 % A and foliar spray of compost tea, 50 % A with foliar spray of algae extract and 50 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts on vegetative growth, yield and yield components of two Egyptian cotton varieties, i.e., Giza 94 and Giza 97. The experiments were laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replicates. Results reveal that the superiority of the promising cotton variety of Giza 97 in No. of sympodial/plant, No. of fruiting sites/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, No. of total bolls/plant, opened bolls %, seed cotton yield/plant (g), lint cotton yield/plant (g), boll weight (g), lint %, seed cotton yield/fed (kentar) and lint cotton yield/fed (kentar) in addition to recorded the lowest bolls shedding % in both seasons as compared to Giza 94 cotton variety. While, the maximum plant height (cm), No. of monopodial/plant, bolls shedding %, seed index (g) and lint index (g) were achieved by Giza 94 variety in both seasons. Cotton plants treated by 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts significantly gave the maximum plant height, No. of sympodial/plant, No. of fruiting sites/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, No. of total bolls/plant, opened bolls %, seed cotton yield/plant, lint cotton yield/plant, boll weight, seed index, lint %, lint index, seed cotton yield/fed and lint cotton yield/fed, followed by 75 % A with foliar spray of algae extract treatment, respectively in both seasons. Cotton plants treated with 100 % mineral fertilizer treatment markedly gave the maximum bolls shedding % also recorded the lowest No. of opened bolls/plant and opened bolls % in both seasons. Growing Giza 97 variety treated by 75 % A and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts treatment recorded the greatest No. of sympodial/plant, No. of fruiting sites/plant, No. of opened bolls/plant, No. of total bolls/plant, opened bolls %, seed cotton yield/plant, lint cotton yield/plant, boll weight, lint %, seed cotton yield/fed and lint cotton yield/fed during both seasons. Based on the previous results it could be concluded that, growing promising cotton variety of Giza 97 treated by 75 % A along and foliar spray of compost tea with algae extracts treatment produced the maximum seed cotton yield and its related traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variation in sperm traits is widely documented both at inter- and intraspecific level. However, sperm traits vary also between ejaculates of the same male, due for example, to fluctuations in female availability. Variability in the opportunities to mate can indeed have important consequences for sperm traits, as it determines how often sperm are used, and thus the rate at which they are produced and how long they are stored before the mating. While being stored within males' bodies, sperm are subjected to ageing due to oxidative stress. Sperm storage may significantly impair sperm quality, but evidence linking male sperm storage and variation in sperm traits is still scarce. Here, we tested the effect of the duration of sperm storage on within-male variation in sperm traits in the zebrafish, Danio rerio. We found that without mating opportunities, sperm number increased as storage duration increased, indicating that sperm continue to be produced and accumulate over time within males without being discharged in another way. Long sperm storage (12 days) was associated with an overall impairment in sperm quality, namely sperm motility, sperm longevity, and sperm DNA fragmentation, indicating that sperm aged, and their quality declined during storage. Our results confirm that male sperm storage may generate substantial variation in sperm phenotype, a source of variation which is usually neglected but that should be accounted for in experimental protocols aiming to assay sperm traits or maximise fertilization success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life in extreme environments is typically studied as a physiological problem, although the existence of extremophilic animals suggests that developmental and behavioral traits might also be adaptive in such environments. Here, we describe a new species of nematode, Tokorhabditistufae, n. gen., n. sp., which was discovered from the alkaline, hypersaline, and arsenic-rich locale of Mono Lake, California. The new species, which offers a tractable model for studying animal-specific adaptations to extremophilic life, shows a combination of unusual reproductive and developmental traits. Like the recently described sister group Auanema, the species has a trioecious mating system comprising males, females, and self-fertilizing hermaphrodites. Our description of the new genus thus reveals that the origin of this uncommon reproductive mode is even more ancient than previously assumed, and it presents a new comparator for the study of mating-system transitions. However, unlike Auanema and almost all other known rhabditid nematodes, the new species is obligately live-bearing, with embryos that grow in utero, suggesting maternal provisioning during development. Finally, our isolation of two additional, molecularly distinct strains of the new genus—specifically from non-extreme locales—establishes a comparative system for the study of extremophilic traits in this model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of nitrogen (N) fertilization levels on protein and carbohydrate fractions in Marandu palisadegrass pasture [Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster] were investigated in a pasture over five years. The experimental design was completely randomized with four levels of N (0, 90, 180, and 270 kg N ha-1, as urea) for five years, and with three replicates. The study was conducted in a continuously stocked pasture during the forage growing season (December to April) in a tropical region. The effects of N fertilization were similar across the five years. With increasing N fertilization, the concentrations of crude protein (CP) increased from 103 to 173 g kg−1 (P < 0.001), soluble fractions (Fraction A + B1) increased from 363 to 434 g kg−1 of total CP (P = 0.006); neutral detergent fiber (NDF) decreased from 609 to 556 g kg−1 (P = 0.037); indigestible NDF (P = 0.046), potentially degradable neutral detergent fiber (P = 0.037), and acid detergent fiber decreased (P = 0.05), and total digestible nutrient (TDN) increased (P < 0.001). Increasing N fertilization decreased the concentrations of Fraction C (P = 0.014) and total carbohydrates (P < 0.0001), and increased CP:organic matter digestibility (P < 0.01). Concentrations of neutral detergent fiber free of ash and protein (P = 0.003), indigestible neutral detergent fiber (P < 0.001), neutral detergent fiber potentially degradable (P = 0.11), CP (P < 0.001), Fraction A + B1 (P < 0.001), Fraction B2 (P < 0.001), Fraction B3 (P < 0.01), and non-structural carbohydrates differed (P < 0.001) across years. Therefore, N fertilization can be used to increase CP, soluble protein, and TDN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With colleagues Brett Nixon and Mark Baker, Dr. Aitken has unraveled novel pathways involved in both sperm viability and sperm-egg recognition. Dr. Aitken has personally supervised 43 PhD students (9 current) and brought in more than $50 million in research funding. B Distinguished b B Andrologist Award b I (Sponsored i I by the Eugenia Rosemberg Endowment Fund) i GLO:FSQE/02jul21:andr13044-fig-0003.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): . gl R. John Aitken, PhD University of Newcastle Dr. Aitken has spent a lifetime studying the cell biology of mammalian spermatozoa and the role of defective sperm function in the etiology of male infertility. [Extracted from the article]

Diagnosis of complete XY gonadal dysgenesis exposes the patient to the prospect of infertility and many years of medical treatment in order to avoid the development of diseases associated with this condition. However, sufficiently early diagnosis followed by the implementation of proper therapy improves the prognosis for enabling future pregnancies after IVF through the development of reproductive organs and prevention of health complications of hypoestrogenism such as cardiovascular problems and osteoporosis. This syndrome is very rare and affects 1 in 80,000 women. Due to the high risk of developing a gonadal tumour, prophylactic bilateral gonadectomy is one of the main procedures performed in a relatively brief time after diagnosis. Unfortunately, despite characteristic symptoms like primary amenorrhoea and underdeveloped breasts, the diagnosis is often made quite late. We report the case of a 45-year-old woman who had been diagnosed with Swyer syndrome at the age of 16 years. The patient underwent bilateral gonadectomy one year after the diagnosis due to the associated risk of developing malignancy and was treated since with hormone replacement therapy. At the age of 32 and 34 years, 2 successful IVF procedures were performed with oocyte donations. The pregnancies proceeded without any complications and both were resolved by caesarean section. The healthy sons' weights were 3600 g and 3700 g, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the CREA research facility of Treviglio (Bergamo, Italy), to provide farmers with valuable hints for the transition from conventional to precision agriculture, information on crop production dynamics (Maize and Triticale) has been obtained using real-time soil mapping (resistivity technique) and production quality and quantity monitoring with a commercial yield mapping apparatus. The geostatistical processing of data resulted in the same zoning for Triticale, meaning that the characteristics of soil influenced crop behavior more than the variability resulting from other factors, which suggests that improvements in product yields can be planned and achieved acting, for instance, on variable rate distribution of fertilizers. The importance of the acquired data can help farmers to manage factors that are external to their plots of land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of N fertilizers on tropical acid soils is increasing because of their low native fertility. Chicken litter biochar was used to improve N use efficiency and rice yield. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of chicken litter biochar on selected chemical properties of a tropical acid soil under rice (MR219) cultivation. Treatments evaluated were in this study were as follows: (1) T1, soil only, (2) T2, existing recommended fertilization, (3) T3, chicken litter biochar alone, and (4) T4, chicken litter biochar + existing recommended fertilization. Plant and soil analyses were conducted using standard procedures. The use of chicken litter biochar increased soil pH, total carbon, total P, available P, total N, and exchangeable N. Also, this practice decreased soil total acidity and exchangeable Al3+. Compared with T2, T4 significantly increased Crop Recovery Efficiency and Agronomic Recovery Efficiency of N. This resulted in a significant increase in the grain yield (11 t ha−1) of MR219 (Malaysia hybrid rice) for T4 compared with the existing rice grain yield of 5.9 t ha−1 (T2). Moreover, application of chicken litter biochar (5 t ha−1) to tropical acid soil suggested that N application can be reduced to 26.67%, 30.03%, 30.15%, and 14.15% of the recommended rates by MADA on days 10, 30, 50, and 70 after transplanting, respectively. Chicken litter biochar can improve the chemical properties of tropical acid soils and rice (MR219) grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]