Fertility Tests Research Articles

Marfan syndrome is associated with increased risk for gynecologic disorders and maternal complications.

To determine whether patients with Marfan syndrome are at an increased risk for reproductive disorders. This retrospective cohort study was conducted using the US collaborative network on the TriNetX research network of health care organizations. We included female patients aged 18-44 and identified a cohort of 4347 patients with Marfan syndrome (ICD-10 Q87.4). Our control cohort consisted of 16,424,990 patients without a diagnosis of Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (ICD-10 Q79.6). The primary outcomes included gynecologic diagnoses such as dysmenorrhea and endometriosis, and our secondary outcomes included urogynecologic, fertility, and obstetric outcomes, all identified by ICD-10 codes. We conducted a relative risk analysis with a p-value of <0.05 considered significant. Patients with Marfan syndrome were at an increased risk for pelvic and perineal pain, dysmenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis (all p <0.0001), dyspareunia (p =0.0009), leiomyoma (p =0.0076), polyp of female genital tract (p =0.016), urinary incontinence (p <0.0001), female genital prolapse (p =0.0006), fertility testing (p =0.0075), cesarean delivery (p =0.0003), gestational hypertension (p =0.0012), and pre-eclampsia (p =0.0024) compared to the control group following an adjusted, matched comparison. Patients with Marfan syndrome have an increased risk of numerous reproductive disorders and obstetric complications compared to patients without this diagnosis.

A Novel Interpolation Method for Soil Parameters Combining RBF Neural Network and IDW in the Pearl River Delta

Soil fertility is a critical factor in agricultural production, directly impacting crop growth, yield, and quality. To achieve precise agricultural management, accurate spatial interpolation of soil parameters is essential. This study developed a new interpolation prediction framework that combines Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural networks with Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), termed the IDW-RBFNN. This framework initially uses the IDW method to apply preliminary weights based on distance to the data points, which are then used as input for the RBF neural network to form a training dataset. Subsequently, the RBF neural network further trains on these data to refine the interpolation results, achieving more precise spatial data interpolation. We compared the interpolation prediction accuracy of the IDW-RBFNN framework with ordinary Kriging (OK) and RBF methods under three different parameter settings. Ultimately, the IDW-RBFNN demonstrated lower error rates in terms of RMSE and MRE compared to direct RBF interpolation methods when adjusting settings based on different power values, even with a fixed number of data samples. As the sample size decreases, the interpolation accuracy of OK and RBF methods is significantly affected, while the error of IDW-RBFNN remains relatively low. Considering both interpolation accuracy and resource limitations, we recommend using the IDW-RBFNN method (p = 2) with at least 60 samples as the minimum sampling density to ensure high interpolation accuracy under resource constraints. Our method overcomes limitations of existing approaches that use fixed steady-state distance decay parameters, providing an effective tool for soil fertility monitoring in delta regions.

Cocoa Farmers’ Perceptions of Drought and Adaptive Strategies in the Ghana–Togo Transboundary Cocoa Belt

This study investigated the perception of drought by cocoa farmers and explored the effectiveness of adaptive strategies (ASs) used in smallholding farms in the transboundary region between Ghana and Togo. Drought significantly threatens cocoa production in this region, affecting farmers’ livelihoods and cocoa supply chains. This study used a multistage sampling approach, which involved surveys with questionnaires administered to 330 cocoa farmers throughout the study area, along with on-site observations. Statistical analysis included binary logistic and Poisson regression models to explore the relationship between farmer socioeconomic characteristics and adaptation practices. The findings revealed that cocoa farmers in the region have a nuanced understanding of drought, attributed to changing climatic patterns and unsustainable land management practices such as deforestation. To mitigate its impacts, farmers employ a variety of ASs, including investment in farm management, soil management, and intercropping with crop diversification. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors, including age, formal education, household size, land tenure right, adaptation cost assessment, and an underestimation of self-efficacy, were shown to affect the choice in the AS. Among the ASs adopted, only farm management practices (weeding, pruning, fertilizer application, etc.) significantly improved yield. This study contributes to understanding drought as a critical issue for cocoa farmers and the adaptation practices used by smallholder cocoa farmers. Given that among the strategies adopted, only farm management practices, also known as good agricultural practices (GAPs), significantly improves yield, this study recommends well-designed and innovative packages of sustainable farm management based on farm and owner characteristics. These include irrigation schemes, timely soil fertilizer monitoring and supply, and the provision of drought-resistant varieties along with technical itineraries. Additional interventions require drought emergency responses, with other factors such as education and financial support mechanisms expected to improve farmers’ timely decision-making to adapt and improve cocoa production resilience to drought episodes in international transboundary regions with complex governance structures.

BCL-2 and BAX expression and germ cell apoptosis following the intervention of 1-isothiocyanato-4-methylsulfinylbutane in cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity and sperm DNA fragmentation in Sprague-Dawley rat

Cisplatin (CP) has been used in clinical oncology but causes spermatogenesis damage. Isothiocyanato-4-methylsulfonylbutane (SFN) is a potent dietary bioactive agent that has been extensively studied for its effects on disease prevention. This study focused on the intervention of SFN on Germ cell apoptosis in CP-induced testicular toxicity and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). A total of ninety (90) male and ninety (90) female rats (weighing, 150–200 g, 12–14 weeks old) were assigned randomly into nine groups of ten (n = 10) rats each. Group A received normal saline, group B received a single dose of 10 mg/kg CP (i.p.), group C received 50 mg/kg bwt of SFN, group D received 100 mg/kg bwt of SFN, group E received 10 mg/kg bwt CP and 50 mg/kg bwt of SFN, group F received 10 mg/kg bwt CP and 100 mg/kg bwt of SFN, group G received 10 mg/kg bwt CP and 50 mg/kg bwt vitamin C, group H received 50 mg/kg bwt of SFN and 10 mg/kg bwt CP, Group I received 100 mg/kg bwt of SFN and 10 mg/kg bwt CP. The procedure lasted for 56 days. At the end of each treatment, the 90 male rats were introduced to the 90 female rats on the proestrus at a ratio of 1:1 for fertility tests. Testicular histopathological, apoptotic marker, immunoreactivity, sperm parameters, and SDF were investigated.Cisplatin significantly decreases chromatin condensation/de-condensation levels, haploid germ cells, the number of fetuses, and BCL-2 expression. Also, CP increases SDF and BAX expression relative to control. Treatment with SFN increased BCL-2 expression, haploid germ cells, protected sperm chromatin condensation, improved microarchitecture of testes, and decreased SDF and BAX expression.Therefore, SFN protects against CP-induced apoptosis by controlling BCL-2 and BAX expression and ameliorates SDF.

Menstrual Cycle and the Protective Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning Against Endothelial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: Comparison with Postmenopausal Women.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the capacity of remote ischemic preconditioning (IPC) against endothelial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury changes across the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women, and to compare IPC responses to postmenopausal women. Thirty-five women were studied (22 premenopausal/13 postmenopausal). Changes in endothelial function were determined during the early follicular versus the late follicular phase (after positive urine ovulation test; Study 1); versus the mid-luteal phase (after positive urine progesterone test; Study 2); and versus estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women; Study 3). Endothelium-dependent vasodilation was assessed by the forearm blood flow (FBF) to reactive hyperemia with/without I/R injury with remote IPC (3×5 min cycles of upper arm ischemia). In the premenopausal women, peak FBF responses during the early follicular phase were blunted 20% (P<0.0001) with I/R injury (from baseline: 23.4±6.2 to 19.5±4.9 ml/100 ml tissue/min) compared with the late follicular/mid-luteal phases despite IPC. In postmenopausal women, peak FBF was diminished (from: 21.1±5.1 to 17.2±4.4 ml/100 ml tissue/min), and total FBF (area under the curve) was decreased a third (-32%; P<0.001) with I/R injury. Protection from I/R injury was preserved during the late follicular (from baseline: 21.7±5.3 to 24.8±5.9 ml/100 ml tissue/min; P=0.109), and mid-luteal phases (from: 25.1±3.9 to 27.2±5.7 ml/100 ml tissue/min; P=0.267). Reduced estrogen during the early follicular phase, and the rise in estrogen associated with ovulation and the mid-luteal phase, may contribute to changes in IPC-mediated protection in premenopausal women, and sheds light about how cardioprotection may change with ovarian hormone deficiency with the menopause transition.

8303 Analysis of Over 2.2 Million Anti-Mullerian Hormone Patient Results Across Lifespan From Birth to Over 80 Years Using a Lab Developed Chemiluminescent Immunoassay

Abstract Disclosure: C. Cheng: None. D. Alfego: None. K.Y. Chun: None. Introduction: Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a glycoprotein produced by granulosa cells of the ovarian follicle in females and by Sertoli cells of the testes in males. AMH is best known to correlate with ovarian reserve in females. As such, AMH is among the most frequently ordered tests in reproductive age females. The clinical utility of AMH beyond ovarian reserve assessment, especially in males, pediatric and postmenopausal populations, is less commonly examined. As a national reference laboratory that serves approximately 50% of providers across the country, our large database provides an opportunity to examine the clinical utility of AMH testing in other areas of health besides fertility. Objective: To examine AMH test utilization across lifespan of males and females in the US. Methods: Retrospective AMH tests performed at Labcorp® endocrine specialty lab from year 2012 to 2023 of 2,229,845 female patients and 10,362 male patients have been analyzed. Patients with unspecified sex were excluded. Serum AMH levels from birth to 80 plus years for males vs females were compared. For clinical utility assessments, female results are separated into four age groups: pediatric (age 0-17), adult (age 18-39), perimenopausal (age 40-59), and postmenopausal (age &amp;gt;60), and males into pediatric (age 0-17), adult (age 18-59), and older adult (age &amp;gt;60). ICD-10 codes associated with testing order were reviewed for each subgroup based on age and sex Results: In postmenopausal females, AMH is most frequently ordered for evaluation of ovarian cancer, whereas menstrual disorders and PCOS make up the most frequent clinical entities associated with AMH orders in females &amp;lt;18 years. Fertility testing is the most common ICD-10 associated with AMH orders, particularly in reproductive age and perimenopausal females. The most common ICD-10s associated with AMH in pediatric males include delayed puberty, hypoplasia of penis, and childhood short stature. In the adult and older adult male groups, AMH is surprisingly found to also most commonly associate with fertility testing and hypogonadism, although the clinical significance of post pubertal AMH is less defined. Conclusion: AMH testing has most often been used for female fertility testing, but our data show that significant fraction (10-20%) of AMH testing is used to evaluate and manage other suspected endocrine disorders and malignancies including intersex conditions at birth, pubertal development disorder, polycystic ovarian syndrome, male gonadal disfunction at all ages and granulosa cell tumors. Analysis of our large database underscores a need for clinical study to better define AMH levels that are relevant for non-fertility-related conditions. Presentation: 6/2/2024

A-074 A Laboratory Developed Serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay: Performance and Retrospective Analysis of Over 2.2 Million Tests in Females and Males Across Lifespan

Abstract Background The quantification of serum Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), a glycoprotein dimer produced by granulosa cells of the ovarian follicle in females and by Sertoli cells of the testes in males, has clinical utility across lifespan in both females and males. AMH is most frequently ordered to assess fertility in females of reproductive age, where it correlates with ovarian reserve. The clinical applications of serum AMH beyond ovarian reserve assessment, especially in males, pediatric, and postmenopausal populations, include the investigation of peri-menopause transition, delayed or precocious onset of puberty, differential diagnosis of disorders of sexual development, the evaluation of male gonadal function, and as an ovarian tumor marker. The objective was to establish and validate a highly sensitive assay to quantify AMH and to use our database of more than 2 million tests to understand the clinical utility of measuring AMH across sex and lifespan. Methods A validated two-step electrochemiluminescence assay was used for the quantification of serum AMH. The analytical performance of the assay was assessed, including accuracy, precision, and dilutional linearity. ICD-10 codes ordered between 2012 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed for each subgroup based on age and sex to determine test usage. The analysis includes results from 2,229,845 female and 10,362 male patients across lifespan. Results The AMH analytical measurement range (AMR) was determined to be 0.015 - 15.0 ng/mL with a maximum reportable concentration of 960 ng/mL when run on dilution. Both inter- and intra-assay standard accuracy and precision were ≤ ±15.4% bias and ≤ 11.0% CV for all levels. Inter- and intra-assay sample precision was ≤ 9.6% CV across the AMR. Samples diluted linearly and recovered within 80 - 120% of the expected values when diluted up to 64X. Analytical interference caused by icterus, lipemia, or hemolysis was not observed. The most common ICD-10 associated with AMH orders was for fertility testing in females of reproductive age. AMH was also ordered in females for evaluation of ovarian cancer, menstrual disorders, and PCOS. In males, common ICD-10 codes associated with AMH include delayed puberty, hypoplasia of the penis, fertility testing, hypogonadism, and childhood short stature. Conclusions This study demonstrates a highly sensitive assay for the quantification of serum AMH with clinical utility across sex and lifespan. Using retrospective data, we determined that in addition to being used primarily in fertility testing, AMH is also commonly used to evaluate and manage other endocrine disorders and malignancies, including disorders of sexual development, disorders of puberty, PCOS, male gonadal dysfunction, and granulosa cell tumors. This assay can aid in defining the clinically relevant age and sex-specific levels of AHM in non-fertility-related conditions.

Differences in perinatal complications and serum hormone levels due to uterine endometrial preparation methods in frozen-thawed embryo transfer.

In frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET), differences in endometrial preparation methods affect the incidence of perinatal complications. However, the underlying causes are unclear. We aimed to investigate whether serum E2, P4 levels are associated with perinatal complications. This is a retrospective cohort study, involving 306 successful FET pregnancies from 2017 to 2022. Participants were divided into Natural Cycle (NC) and Hormone Replacement Cycle (HRC) group. We compared serum hormone levels, maternal backgrounds, and perinatal outcomes and complications. Furthermore, within the HRC group, serum hormone levels were compared for perinatal complications previously reported to show differences in incidence rates depending on the method of endometrial preparation. HRC exhibited significantly higher serum E2 levels during the implantation period, but lower P4 levels during ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy test period compared with NC. HRC also had significantly higher rates of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). There was no association found between perinatal complications more likely to occur in HRC and serum E2, P4 levels. In HRC, there were more occurrences of PPH and PAS. Although serum E2, P4 levels during FET did not correlate with perinatal complications.

Agricultural nanotechnology for a safe and sustainable future: current status, challenges, and beyond.

Nanotechnology, which involves manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scales to produce structures and devices ranging from 1 to 100 nm, is increasingly being applied in agriculture. Nanoscale materials possess distinct optical, electrochemical, and mechanical properties that enable the smart, targeted delivery of pesticides, fertilizers, and genetic materials to plants, as well as rapid sensing and on-site monitoring of plant health, soil fertility, and water quality in a digital format. This review explores the application of nanotechnology in agriculture, examining the challenges and benefits related to all aspects of crop production, with a particular focus on regulatory issues. Key findings indicate that nanotechnology can improve crop production and reduce the environmental footprint of agriculture through precise input management. However, several critical issues need to be addressed, including the limited knowledge of the long-term environmental impacts associated with agricultural nanotechnology and the ambiguity of current regulations. This underscores the need for further research to elucidate its impact on soil, water, and environmental and human health, to inform evidence-based regulations. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Towards a national model of humus (carbon) budget management in soils of agroecosystems in the Russian Federation

The prospect of adapting two methods for monitoring the fertility of agricultural soils (humus balance, HB) under spring and winter wheat crops (hereinafter referred to as grain crops) developed in the Russian Federation (RF) for the purposes of climate projects has been studied. It was revealed that the RosNIIzemproekt method (1998) underestimates the HB average value to -7.7 c/ha for RF. The RosNIIzemproekt method (1998) has logical errors in the calculation model and is not recommended for use. The TsINAO method (2000) has a more logical calculation model. According to this method, the average value of HB in soils for RF is generally positive and amounts to 3.3 c/ha (0.71 tCO2-eq/ha carbon units). This value constitutes ≈0.3% of average humus reserves in arable soils of the RF (108 tС/ha). The annual value of change in humus content under spring and winter wheat is incommensurably less than the total humus reserves in the soil. Statistically reliable assessment of changes in humus content requires a huge number of soil samples. This makes the verification procedure economically inexpedient. Another option is proposed to increase the time of humus accumulation. It is considered (IPCC, 2003) that a 20-year accumulation period is sufficient, which corresponds to the duration of soil climate projects. A coefficient (0.216) has been proposed for converting humus reserves (c/ha) to the value of a carbon unit (tCO2-eq/ha). The total sequestration of carbon by soils under grain crops in 2022 was about 11 million 914 thousand tCO2-eq. HB accounting significantly compensates for calculated emissions from agricultural production and reduces them by almost 10% (from 116 to 105 million tons CO2-eq in 2022). For both models of fertility monitoring, an assessment was made of the quality of the regression dependence of HB on the total biomass of photosynthesis (TBP) in soils under grain crops. It is shown that according to Fisher's t-test at a 5% significance level, the studied relationship is significant and characterized by the squares of the correlation coefficient (R2) equal to 0.554 and 0.998. In accordance with the Chaddock scale, the closeness of the correlative relationship between HB and TPB for winter wheat is assessed as high, and for spring wheat as very high.

Perspectives of Young Men With Spina Bifida on Fertility Potential and Future Parenthood

ObjectivesTo explore the perspectives of young adult males with spina bifida on their fertility potential and parenthood. MethodsSemi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted between 2/2021-5/2021 with men ≥18 years of age with spina bifida on perspectives on fertility potential and parenthood. Demographic and clinical characteristics were obtained from a survey and chart review. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and assessed through conventional content analysis framework. ResultsOf 30 eligible individuals approached, 20 agreed to participate. Median age was 22.5 years (range 18-29), and 80% had myelomeningocele. Most reported not being in a relationship (14/20, 70%), not being currently sexually active (13/20, 65%), and no participant reported a history of paternity. Many reported a desire for future fertility. Uncertainty and areas of concern were identified regarding their physiologic and psychosocial ability to be a parent. Perceived barriers to achieving parenthood included: 1) uncertainty around fertility potential and the hereditary nature of SB; and 2) concerns with being a parent and raising a child. Facilitators to help overcome uncertainty, such as gaining knowledge on fertility testing options and understanding means of preventing neural tube defects, were identified. Participants expressed the importance of strong peer and family support to help overcome challenges related to parenthood. ConclusionsMen with spina bifida are interested in future fertility, yet uncertainty exists around the physiologic and psychosocial ability to be a parent. Facilitators to help overcome uncertainty and concerns should be a focus of patient counseling around future fertility with young men with spina bifida.

Supplementation of sperm cooling medium with Eurycoma longifolia extract enhances native Thai chicken sperm quality and fertility potential.

Cooled semen storage methods result in oxidative stress generated by an imbalance between oxidation rates, specifically reactive oxygen species production, and sperm cell antioxidants, leading to degradation of semen quality. We aimed to investigate the impact of adding Eurycoma longifolia (EL) extract as an antioxidant supplement in semen storage medium (IGGKPh semen extender) on semen quality and fertility potential. EL extract at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/mL was assessed for its antioxidant capacity in IGGKPh semen extender. Our findings revealed that the total phenolic content in the EL extract did not vary significantly across the various concentrations and temperatures tested. However, incubation at 5°C was found to be the most effective temperature for increasing the EL extract antioxidant capacity as assessed via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl inhibition assay in a dose-dependent manner. Supplementation of the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract was found to enhance semen quality during cold storage for up to 48 h (p < 0.05), as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde levels in cooled semen (p < 0.05). However, antioxidant enzyme activities showed no significant differences among the various experimental groups (p > 0.05). The fertility test showed that the 15 mg/mL EL extract group stored for 24 h had a higher percentage than the control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in percentage between the two groups at 48 h of storage (p > 0.05). The hatchability showed no significant difference in both 24 and 48-h storage periods (p > 0.05). Our results indicated that supplementing the IGGKPh semen extender with 15 mg/mL EL extract may positively influence semen quality during storage, suggesting potential applications for enhancing semen quality.

Availability of self-care products for sexual and reproductive health provided by community pharmacists in Rwanda: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Access to and use of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services remain a global public health concern, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed to understand the attitudes and perceptions of pharmacists in Rwandan community pharmacies and to assess the availability of sexual and reproductive health products in these pharmacies. In a cross-sectional study conducted in Rwanda from 1 September 2023 to 30 November 2023, registered and licensed pharmacists from 864 community pharmacies were surveyed, employing a quantitative research approach. Systematic sampling was used to collect the data. A chi-square test was conducted for relationships between variables. SRH products for self-care were widely available in Rwandan community pharmacies, ranging from 82.3% to 97.3%, except for ovulation tests (28.4%). Chi-square tests indicated that married pharmacists were more likely to provide educational guidance on SRH products (χ 2 = 8.81, P-value = 0.012). Community pharmacists had positive attitudes and self-reported confidence in dispensing and providing education to pharmacy-based SRH users. The Rwandan community pharmacies had extensive availability of SRH products for self-care use. Pharmacists in these pharmacies had positive attitudes and self-reported confidence in dispensing and guiding the community on SRH products. Continuous professional training is recommended to enhance the quality and standards of SRH.

First-Principles Structure Search Study of 17-β-Estradiol Adsorption on Graphene.

17-Beta-estradiol (E2), a steroid hormone synthesized from cholesterol, has various impacts on health and the environment. Currently, the gold standard for its measurement in the body is a conventional blood test (mass spectrometry), but carbon-based electrochemical sensors have been proposed as an alternative due to their advantages, such as rapid analysis time and sensitivity. To improve the atomic-level understanding of the interactions at the substrate surface, we performed density functional theory (DFT) simulations to study the nature of the adsorption of E2 on pristine graphene. Bayesian Optimization Structure Search (BOSS) was employed to reduce human bias in the determination of the most favorable adsorption configurations. Two stable adsorption minimum configurations were found. Analysis of their electronic properties indicates that E2 physisorbs on graphene. Embarking upon complex carbonaceous materials, the importance of finding all possible minimum candidates with automated structure search tools is highlighted. Computational investigations facilitate tailoring substrate materials with outstanding performance and applications in neuroscientific research, fertility monitoring, and clinical trials. Combining them with experimental research carries significant potential to advance sensor design beyond the current state-of-the-art.

Associations of luteal phase changes in vagally mediated heart rate variability with premenstrual emotional changes

BackgroundA recent meta-analysis revealed that vagally mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV; a biomarker of emotion regulation capacity) significantly decreases in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. As two follow-up studies suggest, these vmHRV decreases are driven primarily by increased luteal progesterone (P4). However, analyses also revealed significant interindividual differences in vmHRV reactivity to the cycle, which is in line with longstanding evidence for interindividual differences in mood sensitivity to the cycle. The present study begins to investigate whether these interindividual differences in vmHRV cyclicity can explain who is at higher risk of showing premenstrual emotional changes. We expected a greater degree of midluteal vmHRV decrease to be predictive of a greater premenstrual increase in negative affect.MethodsWe conducted an observational study with a naturally cycling community sample (N = 31, M = 26.03 years). Over a span of six weeks, participants completed (a) daily ratings of negative affect and (b) counterbalanced lab visits in their ovulatory, midluteal, and perimenstrual phases. Lab visits were scheduled based on positive ovulation tests and included assessments of baseline vmHRV and salivary ovarian steroid levels.ResultsIn line with previous research, multilevel models suggest that most of the sample shows ovulatory-to-midluteal vmHRV decreases which, however, were not associated with premenstrual emotional changes. Interestingly, it was only the subgroup with luteal increases in vmHRV whose negative affect markedly worsened premenstrually and improved postmenstrually.ConclusionThe present study begins to investigate cyclical changes in vmHRV as a potential biomarker of mood sensitivity to the menstrual cycle. The results demonstrate a higher level of complexity in these associations than initially expected, given that only atypical midluteal increases in vmHRV are associated with greater premenstrual negative affect. Potential underlying mechanisms are discussed, among those the possibility that luteal vmHRV increases index compensatory efforts to regulate emotion in those with greater premenstrual negative affect. However, future studies with larger and clinical samples and more granular vmHRV assessments should build on these findings and further explore associations between vmHRV cyclicity and menstrually related mood changes.

The association between the use of fertility indicators and fecundability in a Danish preconception cohort.

The use of fertility indicators to predict ovulation has largely been studied for contraceptive purposes, while less so as fertility-promoting tools. To investigate the association between fertility indicators and fecundability in Danish women trying to conceive. Web-based preconception cohort study. We analysed data from 11,328 females aged 18-49 years trying to conceive without fertility treatment for ≤6 menstrual cycles, from the Danish SnartGravid.dk and SnartForældre.dk cohorts (2007-2023). Participants reported the use of fertility indicators (counting days since the last menstrual period, cervical fluid monitoring, urinary ovulation testing, feeling ovulation, using a smartphone fertility app and measuring basal body temperature [BBT]). Time to pregnancy was measured in menstrual cycles ascertained by self-reported pregnancy status. We estimated fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using proportional probabilities regression models adjusted for age, socio-economic position, health indicators, reproductive history and gynaecological factors. Fertility indicators were used by 63.3% of participants at study entry. Counting days was the most common (46.9%), while measuring BBT was the least (3.0%). Other indicators ranged from 17.0% to 23.6%, with 69.7% using more than one indicator. Compared with non-use, use of any fertility indicator was associated with greater fecundability (adjusted FR 1.14, 95% CI 1.08, 1.19). Cervical fluid monitoring showed the strongest association (aFR 1.46, 95% CI 1.03, 2.07), followed by urinary ovulation testing (aFR 1.35, 95% CI 1.16, 1.58) and counting days (aFR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09, 1.29). Feeling ovulation and fertility apps were modestly associated with fecundability, while measuring BBT was not associated. Sensitivity analysis restricting to ≤2 cycles of attempt time and two cycles of follow-up showed an aFR for any indicator use of 1.21 (95% CI 1.13, 1.31). In this Danish preconception cohort, use of fertility indicators was associated with a higher fecundability, varying by type of indicator.

Combined perceptual and chemical analyses show no compelling evidence for ovulatory cycle shifts in women's axillary odour.

Although men's attraction to women's body odour has been suggested to vary over the ovulatory cycle, peaking around the fertile window, we still lack methodologically robust evidence corroborating this effect. Further, the chemical underpinnings of male preference for the odour of ovulating women remain unknown. Here, we combined perceptual and chemical analyses to investigate the axillary odour of naturally cycling women over 10 days, covering the gradual change in fertility across the ovulatory cycle with a focus on fertile days. The fertile state was confirmed by urinary ovulation tests as well as salivary oestradiol and progesterone levels. Men rated the scent of unfamiliar women, resembling a first encounter. We used multivariate analyses to relate variation in both odour ratings and chemical composition to female conception probability, temporal distance to ovulation and ovarian hormone levels. Our results provide no evidence that males prefer the odour of fertile women. Furthermore, the volatile analysis indicated no link between axillary odour composition and current fertility status. Together, our results showed no convincing support for a chemical fertility cue in women's axillary odour, questioning the presence of olfactory fertility information that is recognizable during first encounters in modern humans.

Minimal influence of the menstrual cycle or hormonal contraceptives on performance in female rugby league athletes.

We examined performance across one menstrual cycle (MC) and 3weeks of hormonal contraceptives (HC) use to identify whether known fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone/progestin are associated with functional performance changes. National Rugby League Indigenous Women's Academy athletes [n=11 naturally menstruating (NM), n=13 using HC] completed performance tests [countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), isometric mid-thigh pull, 20m sprint, power pass and Stroop test] during three phases of a MC or three weeks of HC usage, confirmed through ovulation tests alongside serum estrogen and progesterone concentrations. MC phase or HC use did not influence jump height, peak force, sprint time, distance thrown or Stroop effect. However, there were small variations in kinetic and kinematic CMJ/SJ outputs. NM athletes produced greater mean concentric power in MC phase four than one [+0.41W·kg-1 (+16.8%), p=0.021] during the CMJ, alongside greater impulse at 50ms at phase one than four [+1.7N·s (+4.7%), p=0.031] during the SJ, without differences between tests for HC users. Among NM athletes, estradiol negatively correlated with mean velocity and power (r=-0.44 to -0.50, p<0.047), progesterone positively correlated with contraction time (r=0.45, p=0.045), and both negatively correlated with the rate of force development and impulse (r=-0.45 to -0.64, p<0.043) during the SJ. During the CMJ, estradiol positively correlated to 200ms impulse (r=0.45, p=0.049) and progesterone to mean power (r=0.51, p=0.021). Evidence of changes in testing performance across a MC, or during active HC use, is insufficient to justify "phase-based testing"; however, kinetic or kinematic outputs may be altered in NM athletes.

Comparison of Day-Specific Serum LH, Estradiol, and Progesterone with MiraTM Monitor Urinary LH, Estrone-3-glucuronide, and Pregnanediol-3-glucuronide Levels in Ovulatory Cycles.

Background and Objectives: Fertility tracking apps and devices are now currently available, but urinary hormone levels lack accuracy and sensitivity in timing the start of the 6-day fertile window and the precise 24 h interval of transition from ovulation to the luteal phase. We hypothesized the serum hormones estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) might be better biomarkers for these major ovulatory cycle events, using appropriate mathematical tools. Materials and Methods: Four women provided daily blood samples for serum E2, P, and LH (luteinizing hormone) levels throughout their entire ovulatory cycles, which were indexed to the first day of dominant follicle (DF) collapse (defined as Day 0) determined by transvaginal sonography; therefore, ovulation occurred in the 24 h interval of Day -1 (last day of maximum diameter DF) to Day 0. For comparison, a MiraTM fertility monitor was used to measure daily morning urinary LH (ULH), estrone-3-glucuronide (E3G), and pregnanediol-3-glucuronide (PDG) levels in three of these cycles. Results: There were more fluctuations in the MiraTM hormone levels compared to the serum levels. Previously described methods, the Fertility Indicator Equation (FIE) and Area Under the Curve (AUC) algorithm, were tested for identifying the start of the fertile window and the ovulation/luteal transition point using the day-specific hormone levels. The FIE with E2 levels predicted the start of the 6-day fertile window on Day -7 (two cycles) and Day -5 (two cycles), whereas no identifying signal was found with E3G. However, both pairs of (E2, P) and (E3G, PDG) levels with the AUC algorithm signaled the Day -1 to Day 0 ovulation/luteal transition interval in all cycles. Conclusions: serum E2 and (E2, P) were better biomarkers for signaling the start of the 6-day fertile window, but both MiraTM and serum hormone levels were successful in timing the [Day -1, Day 0] ovulatory/luteal transition interval. These results can presently be applied to urinary hormone monitors for fertility tracking and have implications for the direction of future fertility tracking technology.

Soil Fertility Mapping using Geo-spatial Technique for Khapradih Farm, DKS College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bhatapara, Chhattisgarh, India

The present study aimed to assess various chemical properties and available macro and micronutrients in the soil. Collection of 101 geo-referenced soil surface samples at 100-meter intervals of the Khapradih Farm of DKS College of Agriculture &amp; Research Station, district Balodabazar-Bhatapara of Chhattisgarh state and examined in the laboratory for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and available macro-nutrients (N, P, K, S) and micro- nutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, B). The results showed that the soil was generally neutral in pH, with a range of 5.7 to 7.6. The electrical conductivity indicated non-saline, varying from 0.11 to 0.26 dSm-1. Available nutrients were categorized as low, medium, or high based on nutrient index values. The study revealed that the soil in the area had low levels of available N and S, medium levels of available P and K, and high levels of available Fe, Mn, and Cu. Zn was found to be in the medium category, while B was low. Significant correlations were observed between various physico-chemical properties and available macro and micro nutrients. Using ArcGIS 10.4.1, thematic maps were created, representing the spatial distribution of soil properties and nutrient status. Based on these findings, fertilizer recommendations were developed for major crops grown in the area, resulting in enhanced crop productivity. The study concludes that GPS and GIS-based tools are valuable for soil fertility mapping, monitoring, and site-specific nutrient management, leading to sustainable and optimal crop yields.