Fertility Decline Research Articles

Adverse Effects of Human Activities on Forest Reserves in Ghana: Lessons of Experience from the Yenku Forest Reserve in the Central Region

This study examines the threat posed to sustainable forest management of human activities of communities within the Yenku Forest Reserve in the Central Region of Ghana. The reserve was identified for the study because it is the largest forest reserve has the highest number of fringe communities and is one of the most degraded forest reserve in the Winneba Forest District. Da, and observations and semi-structured were deployed for soliciting series of individual semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and observations were deployed to solicit data from residents within the fringe communities of the Yenku forest reserve. The findings of the study are that farming, charcoal burning, hunting, and harvesting of non-timber forest products are the major human activities and constitute the livelihood and survival of the fringe communities. The consequence of these human activities is the continuous degradation of the land, a decline of soil fertility, soil erosion, deforestation, and forest degradation, wildfires, and depletion of wildlife. The interviewees reported that they have little or no role to play when the issue of sustainability comes up in the management of the Yenku Forest Reserve. It emerged from the study findings that traditional authorities within the fringe communities and all relevant stakeholders needed to be actively engaged in the making of decisions regarding the Yenku forest reserve so as to integrate local peoples’ knowledge and livelihood objectives and strategies into the choices made and to improve the management of forest resources.

Melatonin protects aged oocytes from depalmitoylation-mediated quality reduction by promoting PPT1 degradation and antioxidation.

Oocyte aging is closely related to a decline in female fertility, accompanied by increased reactive oxygen species levels and changes in protein posttranslational modifications. However, the role of protein palmitoylation in oocyte aging has not been investigated. In the present study, a new association between redox and palmitoylation in aging oocytes was found. We found that the protein level of palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1), a depalmitoylation enzyme, was increased in maternally aged mice oocytes and follicular fluid of aged (age >35 years) patients with decreased ovarian reserve (DOR). Elevated PPT1 led to decreased S-palmitoylation levels in oocytes, which impaired oocyte maturation and spindle formation. Tubulin was identified as a critical palmitoylated protein regulated by PPT1, whose palmitoylation was also decreased by advanced age, accompanied by abnormalities in membrane localization and microtubule polymerization. Melatonin was found to down-regulate excessive PPT1 and rescue PPT1-induced damage in mouse oocytes, not only by regulating oxidative stress, but also by binding with PPT1 to regulate its lysosomal degradation. In summary, our data demonstrate that PPT1 participates in oocyte aging by regulating tubulin palmitoylation, providing evidence that oxidative stress regulates protein palmitoylation and revealing a novel mechanism of oocyte aging.

Fertility Decline to Low and Lowest-Low Levels in Latin America

Fertility Decline to Low and Lowest-Low Levels in Latin America

Farmers’ Awareness of Land Degradation in the Dry Zone Rain-fed Uplands: The Case of Ranpathwila Cascaded Tank Village System, Sri Lanka

Purpose: The Rain-fed uplands of Cascaded Tank Village Systems (CTVS) in the Sri Lankan dry zone are degrading while challenging the food security, economy and ecological sustainability of the nation. Farmers’ unawareness of land degradation (LD), and irresponsibility for land conservation are often accused of the LD, yet with limited empirical evidence. Therefore, this study aims at providing empirical evidence on farmers’ awareness of LD by investigating farmers’ perceived indicators and causes of LD i.e., deforestation, soil erosion, soil fertility decline, and their perceived responsibility to halt LD.Research Method: A questionnaire survey was administered among conveniently sampled 291 farmers in the Ranpathiwila CTVS area along with interviews and field observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including Multiple response analysis in SPSS 18.Findings: Farmers are aware of LD by physically examining and qualitatively assessing the relevant indicators of LD (E.g., onsite and offsite, and present and past consequences of LD) and recognizing both relevant natural and anthropogenic causes of LD. Moreover, farmers’ awareness embraces the holistic nature of their land resources. Although farmers feel high moral responsibility for the causes of LD, they feel low or partial moral responsibility to take action to halt LD.Value: The empirical evidence provides a basis for policymakers to avoid stereotyping of land-users as ignorant of LD in conservation interventions, thus suggesting to consider possible other factors affecting farmers’ conservation behavior.

Integrated TWAS, GWAS, and RNAseq results identify candidate genes associated with reproductive traits in cows

Low fertility in cows leads to early removal from herds. Since reproductive traits are complex and have low heritability, genetic analysis can aid in improving reproduction. This study identified key genes linked to fertility by conducting genome- and transcriptome-wide association studies, RNA-seq analysis, meta-analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, and functional enrichment analysis. Through these methods, we identified candidate genes related to Cow conception rate (CCR), Daughter pregnancy rate (DPR), Heifer conception rate (HCR), and overall fertility traits, helping to improve genetic selection for reproductive success in cows. The identified genes include RPL12, FKBP1B, FZD10, COX10, COX7A2, GAA, ETFBKMT, ACSM5, NUDT9, TIGAR, PAIP2, and PSMB5. Notably, GAA, ETFBKMT, COX10, and COX7A2 are involved in the “generation of precursor metabolites and energy” process. COX10, GAA, ETFBKMT, ACSM5, NUDT9, and TIGAR exhibit significant impacts on CCR, DPR, and HCR. COX7A2, PAIP2, and PSMB5 have been identified as hub genes related to fertility traits. RPL12 plays a role in protein synthesis, essential for gametogenesis and embryo development, while FKBP1B regulates calcium signaling, particularly in oocyte aging and fertility decline, and FZD10 is crucial in Wnt signaling. The identified genes serve as markers for genomic selection aimed at enhancing reproductive traits in cow.

Effect of age-associated oxidative stress on sperm viability, acrosomal integrity and sperm apoptosis and DNA fragmentation in Sahiwal breeding bulls.

Sperm motility is the prime functional attribute for semen quality and fertility of the bull. However, the bull's age directly affects the semen quality, and the bull's fertility and productive life decline with age. Even though research on age has been conducted in the past, it is still unclear how old a bull should be maintained at artificial insemination centers. The minimum standard protocol (MSP) states that a bull has an 8-years productive lifespan, yet it has been shown that some bulls older than 8 years have produced freezable ejaculates. It has yet to be established what the bull's ideal productive life is under the tropical climate of India without affecting in-vitro sperm functions. For the validation of the maximum age of a bull up to that it could be utilized in the artificial insemination centers, cut-off values of oxidative stress in freezable semen ejaculates were used. The current study was done at the Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-NDRI, Karnal, Haryana, India. A total of eighteen Sahiwal breeding bulls were divided into three groups: Young (2-4 years), Adult (> 4-8 years), and Older (> 8-11 years). Three ejaculates were taken from each bull; thus, a total of 18 ejaculates were utilized in each group for semen examination. Semen quality of Young bulls was poor compared with adult and older bulls. Seminal parameters such as dead, moribund, apoptotic, reacted acrosome, and protamine deficient sperms were higher in older bulls than in adult bulls; however, the values were non-significant. Less difference was found in the semen parameters among adult and older bulls. This indicates that the semen quality of older Sahiwal bulls was optimum, freezable, and can be utilized for up to 11 years (Average 9.5 years).

Early-life famine exposure and subsequent risk of chronic diseases in later adulthood: a population-based retrospective cohort study.

Over the past few decades, China has experienced significant demographic and epidemiological changes. The sharp decline in fertility and mortality rates has accelerated population aging, contributing to an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases. The nutritional condition during early life is associated with the onset of chronic illnesses later in adulthood. However, it remains unclear whether this association also increases the risk of multimorbidity in later adulthood. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the association between early-life famine exposure and the subsequent development of 14 chronic diseases, as well as multimorbidity, and whether there exists a discrepancy in gender, residence, and famine severity. Data are from the 2018 Wave 4 CHARLS database, a national survey covering 19,816 participants aged 45 years or older. Drawing from our past research on famine in China, we incorporated 3,867 participants, categorizing them into three groups based on their birth years. Considering that climate conditions and population density can influence the intensity of famine, we characterize its severity by establishing a threshold of 50% excess death rate. The 14 chronic diseases assessed by CHARLS were used as the main outcome indicator, with multimorbidity as a secondary outcome indicator. We conducted a stepwise logistic regression analysis to investigate the impact of exposure to famine in early life affects the development of chronic diseases in adulthood, presenting the findings as ORs and 95% CIs. Additionally, we assess multiple moderating factors such as gender, residence, and famine severity to evaluate the outcomes. Of the 3,867 participants included, the prevalence of each chronic disease ranged from 1.1% (Psychiatric disease) to 10.7% (Hypertension). Overall, 27.0% of participants reported being affected by at least one chronic disease, while 9.6% indicated they had suffered from two or more chronic conditions. Early-life exposure to famine makes it more likely to develop diabetes in later adulthood OR (95% CI) of 1.85 (1.26 to2.72), stroke OR (95% CI) of 1.96 (1.17 to 3.29), kidney disease OR (95% CI) of 1.91 (1.07 to 3.40), and multimorbidity OR (95% CI) of 1.39 (1.08 to 1.80), compared to those who did not face such conditions. The moderating effects analysis revealed that less severe famine exposure during toddlerhood was associated with an increased risk of multimorbidity in adulthood OR (95% CI) of 1.43 (1.01 to 2.03). Males exposed to famine during toddlerhood had a higher risk of multimorbidity in adulthood OR (95% CI) of 2.26 (1.29 to 3.98). Compared to the unexposed group, rural residents who experienced famine exposure in their early life are at a higher risk of developing multimorbidity by about 1.5 times in adulthood. Experiencing famine in early childhood increases susceptibility to developing chronic diseases in later adulthood, with the risk of diabetes, stroke, and kidney disease nearly doubling. The association of multimorbidity in later adulthood varies according to the severity of the famine, gender, and residential area.

Impact of Ultraviolet C Radiation on Male Fertility in Rats: Suppression of Autophagy, Stimulation of Gonadotropin-Inhibiting Hormone, and Alteration of miRNAs.

While ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation has beneficial applications, it can also pose risks to living organisms. Nevertheless, a detailed assessment of UVC radiation's effects on mammalian male reproductive physiology, including the underlying mechanisms and potential protective strategies, has not yet been accomplished. This study aimed to examine the critical roles of oxidative stress, autophagy, reproductive hormonal axis, and microRNAs in UVC-induced reproductive challenges in male rats. Semen, biochemical, molecular, and in silico analyses revealed significant dysregulation of testicular steroidogenesis, impaired spermatogenesis, deteriorated sperm quality, and altered reproductive hormonal profiles, which ultimately lead to a decline in fertility in male rats exposed to UVC radiation. Our data indicated that the suppression of autophagy, stimulation of gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone (GnIH), and alteration of microRNAs serve as key mediators of UVC-induced stress effects in mammalian reproduction, potentially contributing to male infertility. Targeting these pathways, particularly through pretreatment with hesperidin (HES), offers a promising strategy to counteract UVC-induced male infertility. In conclusion, the present findings emphasize the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms behind UVC-induced male infertility and offer valuable insights into the protective mechanisms and prospective role of HES in safeguarding male reproductive health.

Maternal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics during gestation and lactation caused fertility decline in female mouse offspring.

The impact of micro/nano plastics (MPs/NPs) on human health is a significant area of research. Studies on the effects of maternal exposure to microplastics (MPs) on the fertility in offspring have been conducted, but the damage caused by nanoplastics (NPs) remains ambiguous. In this study, pregnant Kunming mice were exposed to 30 mg/kg/day PS-NPs from 0.5 gestation day (GD) to 21 days postpartum (dpp). Increased rates of miscarriage and premature delivery were observed, as well as reduced litter size, indicating potential permanent reproductive injury in mice of PS-NPs group. Maternal exposure to PS-NPs impaired fertility of the female offsprings. Decreased primordial and increased growing follicles were observed in the ovaries of offspring at 1 dpp and 7 dpp in PS-NPs group, indicating premature activation of primordial follicles. This premature activation is likely due to the PS-NPs'induction of the AKT-FOXO3a signaling pathway by downregulating AMPK phosphorylation level and enhancing mTOR activity. Furthermore, a significant reduction in transzonal projections (TZPs) was noted in the ovaries of adult offspring mice in PS-NPs group. RNA sequencing of the ovaries from adult offspring female mice revealed that the TZPs related genes may be linked to CAMKIIβ, with a corresponding downregulation in expression levels. Overall, maternal exposure to PS-NPs induced profound and enduring effects on the reproductive functions of female offspring, raising critical alarms regarding the multigenerational reproductive toxicity risks associated with nanoplastic exposure in mammals.

Fertility decline and tax revenues in South Korea

Fertility decline and tax revenues in South Korea

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Restores NAD+ Levels to Alleviate LPS-Induced Inflammation via the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Pathway in Mice Granulosa Cells.

Inflammation disrupts the normal function of granulosa cells (GCs), which leads to ovarian dysfunction and fertility decline. Inflammatory conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), endometriosis, and age-related ovarian decline are often associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is an important precursor of NAD+ and has gained attention for its potential to modulate cellular metabolism, redox homeostasis, and mitigate inflammation. This study investigated the protective roles of NMN against lipopolysaccharide LPS-mediated inflammation in GCs. The results of this experiment demonstrated that LPS had negative effects on GCs in term of reduced viability and proliferation rates and upregulated the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Notably, the levels of NAD+ and NAD+/NADH ratio in GCs were reduced in response to inflammation. On the other hand, NMN supplementation restored the NAD+ levels and the NAD+/NADH ratio in GCs and significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory markers at both mRNA and protein levels. It also enhanced cell viability and proliferation rates of GCs. Furthermore, NMN also reduced apoptosis rates in GCs by downregulating pro-apoptotic markers, including Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and Bax while upregulating anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-2. NMN supplementation significantly reduced reactive oxygen species ROS and improved steroidogenesis activity by restoring the estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels in LPS-treated GCs. Mechanistically, this study found that NMN suppressed the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB/MAPK signaling pathways in GCs, which regulates inflammatory processes. In conclusion, the findings of this study revealed that NMN has the potential to reduce LPS-mediated inflammatory changes in GCs by modulating NAD+ metabolism and inflammatory signaling pathways. NMN supplementation can be used as a potential therapeutic agent for ovarian inflammation and related fertility disorders.

ISOLATION, MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND APPLICATION OF PENICILLIUM CITRINUM AS BIOFERTILIZER POTENTIALS TO ENHANCE COWPEA GROWTH

Chemical fertilizers are linked to a persistent decline in soil fertility, posing health hazards. This study investigated P. citrinum as a biofertilizer for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata growth. The test fungus was identified using molecular techniques from alligator pepper. Using a pot experimental method, an in-situ experiment was conducted on cowpea (TVX-3236) in the greenhouse to screen for the isolate's mycofertilizer potential. For six weeks, the cowpea was planted in six replicates in loamy soil. P. citrinum treatment was applied to the cowpea leaves in the following amounts 20 ml, 35 ml, 50 ml, 65 ml and 80 ml per bucket at a concentration of 0.08 spores per milliliter (mL) with no inoculation on the control. P. citrinum was applied on the second week and data was collected for agronomic traits (plant height, leaf number, leaf area, and root length) and leaf color. The impact of P. citrinum on cowpea height, leaf number, leaf area, and root length revealed that these agronomic parameters rose with increasing P. citrinum concentration. The cowpea in the pot that received the 80 ml P. citrinum inoculation performed the best, indicating that the plant benefited from this treatment. The experiment's results suggest that the isolate can be utilized as a mycofertilizer to promote cowpea growth. For that reason, this study offers some initial data for further investigation into the application of P. citrinum as a biofertilizer in agriculture. This fungus strain's capacity to stimulate plant development may aid in the preservation and revegetation of some vegetations.

Correlates of disappointment in a relationship of generations X, Y, Z: behavioural inhibition/activation system and sense of coherence

ObjectivesThe issue of mutual references, relationships and their quality is the centre of studies dealing with marriage and family. Fertility decline, increased number of divorces, increased expectations related to interpersonal relationships and at the same time a decline in the ability to establish and maintain such have been observed over the years by experts in various disciplines. Numerous attempts are made to define aspects of a successful relationship as one of the criteria for a fulfilling life. This study aims to explore the correlates of disappointment in a relationship among people from different generations (X, Y and Z).Material and methods595 people participated in the research, including 102 born between 1960 and 1975; 273 born between 1976 and 1996, and 220 born between 1997 and 2012. The correlates of relationship disappointment included temperamental ones, measured by the IPIP BIS/BAS questionnaire, and those related to life orientation, measured with the SOC-29 scale. The Good Marriage Questionnaire (KDM-2) was used to measure the quality of the relationship and assess the variable analysed.ResultsIn terms of the analysed variables, people from generations X Y and Z differ. Generation Z has the lowest tendency to work on and care for the relationship, the least close bond between partners and the lowest belief in mutual love, as well as the highest anxiety and the lowest sense of coherence.ConclusionsDisappointment with the relationship of members of the youngest generation is not related to their temperamental traits. The sense of coherence acts as a factor that protects relationships in each generation.

GENETIC ASPECTS OF AGING AND FERTILITY

As women age, reproductive challenges become more prevalent, including increased miscarriage rates due to genetic defects, as well as common complications of the pregnancy (i.e., preeclampsia, preterm birth, intrauterine growth retardation, etc.). Infertility, classified as a worldwide health problem by the World Health Organization, is closely linked to age. Understanding the age-related fertility decline is crucial in clinical practice to provide appropriate counseling and early intervention. Genetic testing is also essential for couples undergoing infertility treatment, as numerous genes have been associated with reproductive problems and aging. As more genes are identified, understanding the etiology of infertility will improve, leading to more successful management.

Fertility Decline and its Demographic Impact

This paper examines the global issue of declining fertility rates and its demographic impact, focusing on Europe and Qatar as case studies. Infertility is explored both biomedically and as a social construct, influenced by societal perceptions and individual desires for parenthood. Globally, declining fertility rates pose significant challenges, particularly in developed nations facing aging populations and shrinking workforces. The paper analyzes the intricate relationship between fertility, family planning, and socio-economic development, highlighting how access to information and reproductive choices empowers women and influences family size. Factors affecting fertility, including age-related decline and delayed childbearing, are discussed. The role of gender equality in fertility transitions is emphasized, arguing that more significant gender equity within families is crucial for achieving desired fertility rates. European fertility trends, characterized by below-replacement levels, are analyzed in relation to social security systems, family support policies, and employment policies. Finally, the paper examines Qatar's demographic challenges and aspirations outlined in its National Development Strategy 3 (NDS3), which aims to increase marriage, reduce divorce, and raise fertility rates through various social and financial incentives. Thus, the paper adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology to conclude with recommendations for reform, focusing on work-life balance, family-centered policies, and individual empowerment to address declining fertility rates and promote sustainable demographic environments.

Fertility Decline in Malawi: A Decomposition Analysis

Fertility in Malawi has been declining since the late 1980s. Total Fertility Rate is reported to have declined by 1.1 children per woman from 5.7 in 2010 to 4.6 in 2015. This reduction indicates a continuing rapid decline in fertility in the country. In view of the foregoing, this study aims to examine the influence of the age structure of the population, nuptiality, and marital fertility on fertility in Malawi. This study used the Malawi Demographic and Health Survey data from 1992, 2000, 2004, 2010, and 2015–2016. Standardization and decomposition methods were used to re-examine fertility trends in Malawi. The results confirms that fertility is declining in Malawi and the fall is clustered among women younger than 30 years of age. The contribution of marital fertility to the decline of Total Fertility Rate was 65.0% during the period 1992–2000, 89.5% during 2000–2004, 2.6% during 2004–2010, and 4.3% during 2010–2015, respectively. Over the same period, the respective contribution of the proportion married was 29.4%, 10.8%, 77.9%, and 92.6%. These percentages suggest that marital fertility followed by proportion of married were important factors before 2005. After 2005, fertility levels and patterns in Malawi are largely influenced by nuptiality. However, there is need for further studies to explain the marriage and fertility nexus in the Malawian context.

Declining appeal of marriage? Trends in marital intentions in South Korea, 1991–2018

ABSTRACT Research on declining marriage rates in Korea has predominantly focused on economic-structural factors. This study uses five nationally representative cross-sectional surveys from 1991–2018 to examine the marital intentions of never-married Korean women and men aged 20–29 by their education, employment, and partnership. The analysis shows that the share of single young adults not intending to marry increased, especially between 2015 and 2018, when uncertainty about marriage intentions also grew. Marital intentions vary little by education and employment but are closely related to partnership status. The ambivalence toward marriage grew in tandem with a fall in the number of young Koreans having a dating partner. The rise in negative and uncertain marriage intentions suggests that the decline in marriage rates is likely to continue, contributing to a further rise in childlessness and a decline in fertility as reproduction in Korean society occurs almost exclusively within marriage.

Characteristics of Steamed Brownies based on Fermented Coffee Fruit Skin by Rhizopus Oryzae

Dry land is a landscape where water is stagnant for a long time or all the time. The use of dry land usually occurs on land, dry land, or uncultivated land. Dry land has the potential to become agricultural land, with 45% of Indonesia's territory consisting of hills and dry land, which are ideal areas for development. However, many obstacles arise in arid, dry regions. In addition to dry land, hills, or areas above ground, they have a positive impact on the agricultural system. Bajawa is a region in the Flores plateau that has a very extensive dryland area. The purpose of writing this article is to facilitate the resolution of problems or obstacles that occur in dryland and hilly areas (upland areas) with a dry climate. The method used in this research is a literature approach. (library research). Data collection in the research was conducted by reviewing and exploring several journals, books, and documents (both printed and electronic) as well as other data sources and information deemed relevant to the research or study. To support sustainable agriculture, dryland management must be sustainable. In land management, there are several issues that often arise. This includes soil fertility decline due to erosion and leaching, very steep topography, water availability, and production issues. Able to identify obstacles and determine solutions. As an alternative, one can use vegetative or mechanical soil management methods, enhance rainwater harvesting, manage water resources comprehensively, and plant drought-resistant crops.

Study of Constraints in the Management of Dry and Hilly Lands in Flores Bajawa

Dry land is a landscape where water is stagnant for a long time or all the time. The use of dry land usually occurs on land, dry land, or uncultivated land. Dry land has the potential to become agricultural land, with 45% of Indonesia's territory consisting of hills and dry land, which are ideal areas for development. However, many obstacles arise in arid, dry regions. In addition to dry land, hills, or areas above ground, they have a positive impact on the agricultural system. Bajawa is a region in the Flores plateau that has a very extensive dryland area. The purpose of writing this article is to facilitate the resolution of problems or obstacles that occur in dryland and hilly areas (upland areas) with a dry climate. The method used in this research is a literature approach. (library research). Data collection in the research was conducted by reviewing and exploring several journals, books, and documents (both printed and electronic) as well as other data sources and information deemed relevant to the research or study. To support sustainable agriculture, dryland management must be sustainable. In land management, there are several issues that often arise. This includes soil fertility decline due to erosion and leaching, very steep topography, water availability, and production issues. Able to identify obstacles and determine solutions. As an alternative, one can use vegetative or mechanical soil management methods, enhance rainwater harvesting, manage water resources comprehensively, and plant drought-resistant crops.

Japan: Internal migration and population decline

AbstractExamining the interdependencies between internal migration and national population decline in Japan, this paper begins by analysing the impacts of internal migration on national fertility decline, for example, through the early post‐World War II flows from high‐fertility countrysides to low‐fertility cities. It then focuses on the way in which, in the context of national population decline, internal migration exacerbates the problems facing Japan's rural areas by adding population loss and, in particular, the loss of young adult populations, to the mounting problems of public and private‐sector disinvestment, job losses, ageing (both social and physical) and the abandonment of land use and built form.