Reproductive Characteristics Research Articles

Assessing Blue Catfish population dynamics across varying introduction timelines in Georgia

AbstractObjectiveUnderstanding the dynamic rate functions of introduced fish populations is essential in guiding management strategies. Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus population dynamics have been well studied; however, there is a gap in knowledge from populations that have been introduced into novel systems.MethodsBlue Catfish were collected from the Altamaha, Ocmulgee, Oconee, and Satilla rivers in Georgia. Age estimates were obtained through otolith analysis. Multimodel growth analysis was used to describe growth patterns, and early life growth was modeled with linear regression. Instantaneous mortality of each population was estimated and compared by using a generalized linear model approach.ResultThe four introduced Blue Catfish populations exhibited rapid growth and low mortality rates during establishment; however, we found that populations with earlier introduction histories generally had slower growth rates and lower mortality. The Satilla River population is comparatively the most recently introduced population (first discovered in 2011) that exhibited the fastest growth and highest mortality.ConclusionOur results suggest that Blue Catfish in our study systems are in an intermediate stage of invasion and have not yet reached an equilibrium state. As density continues to increase in these river systems, we expect a decline in growth rates, delayed sexual maturation, and a greater observed maximum age. However, additional monitoring is needed to identify how population dynamics and reproductive characteristics vary over time.

Investigation of pregnancy tendency, reproductive characteristics, and disability in women with multiple sclerosis: A secondary data analysis of the national registry in Iran

Abstract Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) predominantly affects women of childbearing age, significantly impacting their quality of life (QOL).The diagnosis of MS can influence pregnancy intention, and the level of disability associated with MS may change before and after pregnancy. This study aims to analyze the reproductive characteristics of Iranian female patients with MS (PwMS) and their association with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and pregnancy tendency, providing valuable insights into disease progression and the development of tailored treatments. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the nationwide MS registry of Iran (NMSRI) from 2018 to 2021. Patients without a documented history of pregnancy, MS type, or EDSS score were excluded from the study. Various statistical methods, including nonparametric tests, the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model, and multiple logistic regression, were employed to analyze the data. Results: The study included 1120 PwMS with a median diagnostic age of 31 and a disease duration of 6 years. The majority had relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and the mean EDSS score at bassline was 1.5 ± 1.4. A history of pregnancy or abortion was associated with higher EDSS scores. Multiparity before MS diagnosis was linked to EDSS score ≥ 5, while this EDSS range was associated with decreased parity after MS diagnosis (all P-values < 0.05). Conclusion: Pregnancy and parity can affect the disability in female PwMS irrespective of clinical symptoms, diagnosis age, and MS type. Moreover, the chance of parity may be affected by a higher disability score, which should be considered in the clinical setting.

Comparative study of five scab resistant apple cultivars

Vegetative and reproductive characteristics of five resistant apple cultivars budded on ‘М9-Т337’ rootstock were compared in the intensive orchard, planted at the density of 2380 trees per hectare (3.5 × 1.2 m) in the period 2017-2023. Trees were formed as tall spindle, under an insecticidal net against hail. Trees were grown under drip irrigation and sod-mulch system was applied. The cultivars FUJIONpbr and ENTERPRISE demonstrate greater trunk-cross section area, higher trees and greater crown volume to the tested cultivars. The smallest trees were noted in Cultivar GEMINI*. The lowest yield per unit area was obtained on cultivar FUJIONpbr. There was no significant difference among other cultivars. Despite of generally good characteristics the cultivar GEMINI* has relatively small fruits. Keywords: apple, vigor, productivity, fruit weight, yield

Vegetative traits, floral biology, and mutualistic interactions in the tropical mountain shrub Ribes ciliatum (Grossulariaceae)

Plant species in tropical mountain ecosystems experience significant environmental variation across short spatial distances. These systems offer an opportunity to assess geographic variation in plant traits in relation to biotic and abiotic environments. We examined plant vegetative and reproductive traits in the shrub R. ciliatum across two native conifer forests in central Mexico. We measured plant height, number of branches, leaf size, flower production, floral morphology, floral longevity, and plant reproductive success in R. ciliatum populations found in fir forests (3100 m) and Hartweg's pine forests (subalpine habitat, 3700 m). We also quantified the level of pollinator dependence, pollinator visitation rates, and fruit consumption rates by frugivorous birds in both populations. Plants were shorter and had smaller leaves in the subalpine forest than in the fir forest. Floral longevity decreased in the subalpine forest, but flower production, flower size, and fruit weight remained similar across populations. Fruit set and pollinator visitation rates were higher in the subalpine forest; however, seed weight and fruit consumption rates did not differ between sites. Hummingbirds and bumblebees were the primary pollinators of R. ciliatum, and the bird Ptiliogonys cinereus was the most important fruit consumer at both sites. Fruit set was entirely dependent on pollinators. Reduced plant size in the subalpine forest coincides with a general pattern associated with high mountain environments. In contrast, reproductive characters had a closer relationship to the pollination environment. The absence of variation in flower size and shape was consistent with the similarity in the composition of the pollinator community. Meanwhile, compared to lower-elevation forests, the subalpine forest exhibited shorter-lived flowers and increased fruit set, associated with higher pollinator visitation rates. Ribes ciliatum is a key resource for pollinators and frugivores at a time of year when few other floral resources are available in these high-elevation mountain forests.

Back together: Over 1000 single-copy nuclear loci and reproductive features support the holoendoparasitic Apodanthaceae and Rafflesiaceae as sister lineages in the order Malpighiales

The systematics of the holoendoparasitic flowering plant families Apodanthaceae and Rafflesiaceae has been discussed for over two centuries. The morphological reduction of roots, shoots and leaves in all members of both families, resulting in a cryptic mycelium-like vegetative body, has been interpreted either as a key common feature, or as a result of convergent evolution due to full dependence upon their hosts. Historically, the two families have been placed together due to similar morphological features, but recent analyses based on few mitochondrial and ribosomal gene markers placed them in the distantly related orders Cucurbitales and Malpighiales. Here we reevaluate the affinities of the Apodanthaceae and the Rafflesiaceae using a phylogenomic approach. We present (1) a historical account on their affinities over the last 200 years; (2) phylogenetic analyses reinstating their sister group relationship as part of the order Malpighiales, based on over 1000 single-copy nuclear protein-coding loci; and (3) a comprehensive list of putative morphoanatomical and developmental synapomorphies in light of the phylogenomic results, with emphasis on shared reproductive traits regardless of dramatic differences in floral size.

12500 Objective Evaluation Of Clustering Methods For Resolving The Heterogeneity Of PCOS

Abstract Disclosure: K. Brewer: None. R. Sisk: None. M. Dapas: None. C. Li: None. A. Dunaif: Consulting Fee; Self; AcaciaBio, Inc, Neurocine Biosciences, Inc. Speaker; Self; Quest Diagnostics. Other; Self; Co-Editor Endocrine Today, Healio, Slack Inc. Clustering methods have been used to resolve heterogeneity within complex diseases to elucidate underlying biologic mechanisms. We (Dapas et al. PLoS Med, 2020) and others have applied these methods to PCOS and identified discrete subtypes, including those that capture distinct reproductive or metabolic features. We objectively compared two widely used methods, hierarchical clustering (HC), which recursively merges subjects based on their similarity, and k-means (Km), which iteratively groups individuals to minimize their distance to cluster centroids. The number of clusters (k) was predefined in both approaches. We compared HC vs Km in 874 European ancestry PCOS cases diagnosed by NIH criteria using 8 traits (BMI, testosterone, SHBG, DHEAS, LH, FSH, fasting insulin, fasting glucose) and 9 traits with the addition of AMH. The ConsensusClusterPlus R package was used to evaluate cluster stability of both approaches with k=2, 3, or 4, using 8 or 9 traits. Genomewide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis was performed as reported with a discovery cohort (620 cases, 2951 controls) and a replication cohort (371 cases, 926 controls), except that genotypes were imputed to the newer TOPMED (r2) panel. Clustering using 8 traits and k=3 resulted in the best cluster stability for both HC and Km (pairwise consensus proportion: HC 0.98, Km 0.93) compared to k=2 with 8 traits (HC 0.88, Km 0.88) or 9 traits (HC 0.95, Km 0.92). No stability was observed for k=4 with 8 or 9 traits using either method (range: 0.35-0.66). Km showed slightly better cluster separation than HC (average silhouette width: Km 0.12 vs HC 0.09) with k=3 and 8 traits. The biologic relevance of the three PCOS subtypes, which we have designated as reproductive (cases with higher LH, FSH, SHBG), metabolic (higher BMI, insulin, glucose), and background, was assessed by GWAS, an orthogonal (i.e., uncorrelated) approach for subtype confirmation. The subtypes identified with HC had genomewide significant associations (metabolic subtype, c9orf3/FANCC, rs10761370, minor allele frequency [MAF] 0.47, p=1.21 x 10-8; background subtype, FSHB/ARL14EP, rs10835649, MAF 0.17, p=8.49 x 10-[1]0). There were no genomewide significant signals when the subtypes were identified with Km despite having a better cluster separation. In summary, only HC clusters appeared to capture biologically meaningful differences since two of the three subtypes thus identified were associated with genomewide significant loci. Neither the addition of AMH nor increasing the number of groups improved clustering metrics. Our results emphasize the importance of independent validation of clustering approaches using an orthogonal confirmation strategy such as GWAS. We conclude that HC clustering using 8 traits is superior to Km for resolving the genetic heterogeneity of PCOS. Presentation: 6/2/2024

12500 Objective Evaluation Of Clustering Methods For Resolving The Heterogeneity Of PCOS

Abstract Disclosure: K. Brewer: None. R. Sisk: None. M. Dapas: None. C. Li: None. A. Dunaif: Consulting Fee; Self; AcaciaBio, Inc, Neurocine Biosciences, Inc. Speaker; Self; Quest Diagnostics. Other; Self; Co-Editor Endocrine Today, Healio, Slack Inc. Clustering methods have been used to resolve heterogeneity within complex diseases to elucidate underlying biologic mechanisms. We (Dapas et al. PLoS Med, 2020) and others have applied these methods to PCOS and identified discrete subtypes, including those that capture distinct reproductive or metabolic features. We objectively compared two widely used methods, hierarchical clustering (HC), which recursively merges subjects based on their similarity, and k-means (Km), which iteratively groups individuals to minimize their distance to cluster centroids. The number of clusters (k) was predefined in both approaches. We compared HC vs Km in 874 European ancestry PCOS cases diagnosed by NIH criteria using 8 traits (BMI, testosterone, SHBG, DHEAS, LH, FSH, fasting insulin, fasting glucose) and 9 traits with the addition of AMH. The ConsensusClusterPlus R package was used to evaluate cluster stability of both approaches with k=2, 3, or 4, using 8 or 9 traits. Genomewide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis was performed as reported with a discovery cohort (620 cases, 2951 controls) and a replication cohort (371 cases, 926 controls), except that genotypes were imputed to the newer TOPMED (r2) panel. Clustering using 8 traits and k=3 resulted in the best cluster stability for both HC and Km (pairwise consensus proportion: HC 0.98, Km 0.93) compared to k=2 with 8 traits (HC 0.88, Km 0.88) or 9 traits (HC 0.95, Km 0.92). No stability was observed for k=4 with 8 or 9 traits using either method (range: 0.35-0.66). Km showed slightly better cluster separation than HC (average silhouette width: Km 0.12 vs HC 0.09) with k=3 and 8 traits. The biologic relevance of the three PCOS subtypes, which we have designated as reproductive (cases with higher LH, FSH, SHBG), metabolic (higher BMI, insulin, glucose), and background, was assessed by GWAS, an orthogonal (i.e., uncorrelated) approach for subtype confirmation. The subtypes identified with HC had genomewide significant associations (metabolic subtype, c9orf3/FANCC, rs10761370, minor allele frequency [MAF] 0.47, p=1.21 x 10-8; background subtype, FSHB/ARL14EP, rs10835649, MAF 0.17, p=8.49 x 10-[1]0). There were no genomewide significant signals when the subtypes were identified with Km despite having a better cluster separation. In summary, only HC clusters appeared to capture biologically meaningful differences since two of the three subtypes thus identified were associated with genomewide significant loci. Neither the addition of AMH nor increasing the number of groups improved clustering metrics. Our results emphasize the importance of independent validation of clustering approaches using an orthogonal confirmation strategy such as GWAS. We conclude that HC clustering using 8 traits is superior to Km for resolving the genetic heterogeneity of PCOS. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Hormonal determination of rhizogenesis in Shrub rose regenerants cultivated in vitro

The study of the reproduction characteristics of roses of the garden class Shrub, the definition of the dependence of the hormonal determination of explant rhizogenesis on the concentrations of phytohormones that are part of the nutrient media, is relevant and has both scientific and practical interest. The article presents the results of studies of hormonal determination of rhizogenesis in explants of cultivars of roses of the garden class Shrub: ‘Gärtnerfreude’ (W. Kordes’ Söhne, 1991), ‘Lavender Dream’ (G. P. Ilsink, 1984), ‘Pomponella’ (W. Kordes’ Söhne, 2005), ‘Red Cascade’ (R. S. Moore, 1976), ‘Sommerabend’ (W. Kordes’ Söhne, 1995) cultivated in vitro on nutrient media containing growth regulators. It has been established that of the nutrient media modified by the addition of 0.2–1.0 mg/l α-naphthylacetic acid (α-NAA), the most effective was the medium with the content of α-NAA 0.5 mg/l, the content of macro- and microelements half of the Murashige and Skoog prescriptions, and a decrease in the sucrose content to 2.0%. On this medium, the frequency of rhizogenesis averaged 61.2% for the studied cultivars. Hormonal determination of rhizogenesis and efficiency of root formation in vitro in the Shrub rose regenerants depended on the genotype of the plant (the cultivar): cv. ‘Gärtnerfreude’ (61.0%) and cv. ‘Lavender Dream’ (66.0%) had the highest rhizogenesis ability. The use of the universal growth regulator “Humifield” in combination with 0.5 mg/l α-NAA contributed to an increase in the rooting rate of the studied rose cultivars up to 70.0–86.0%.

A study on the genetic and phenotypic factors affecting specific ewe productivity traits in Sangsari sheep.

The study's objectives were to assess the genetic parameters of reproductive characteristics in Sangsari sheep. A data set of reproductive information with pedigree details from 1995 to 2016 was used. Studied traits were litter size at birth (LSB), litter size at weaning (LSW), litter mean weight per lamb born (LMWLB), litter mean weight per lamb weaned (LMWLW), total litter weight at birth (TLWB) and total litter weight at weaning (TLWW). Test significance of the environmental factors to be included in the model was conducted using the general linear model procedure of the SAS program. All traits were significantly affected by the year of lambing and ewe age at lambing (P < 0.01). The AI-REML procedure of the Wombat program was used to evaluate genetic parameters. A series of bivariate animal models were employed to calculate genetic (rg) and phenotypic (rp) correlations between traits. The total least square means ± standard error of LSB and LSW were 1.04 ± 0.05 and 0.96 ± 0.03, while LMWLB, LMWLW, TLWB, and TLWW were 3.12 ± 0.08, 15.40 ± 0.13, 3.28 ± 0.04, and 19.31 ± 0.16kg, respectively. The estimates of h2 were relatively low (P < 0.01) and ranged from 0.063 ± 0.028 for LSW to 0.181 ± 0.063 for TLWW. Repeatability estimates varied from 0.101 for LSW to 0.241 for TLWW. The sire service effects for LMWLB, TLWB, and TLWW were 0.012 ± 0.004, 0.023 ± 0.006, and 0.039 ± 0.009, respectively. The traits studied showed a greater magnitude of genetic correlation than phenotypic correlation, with values ranging from - 0.59 (LSB-LMWLB) to 0.87 (LMWLB-TLWB). It appears that focusing on TLWW for selection could result in more significant improvements in the reproductive performance of Sangsari ewes.

Characterisation of Fatty Acid Profiles in Tasmanian Atlantic Salmon Muscle, Oocytes and Eggs in Differing Fully Commercial Settings

ABSTRACTTasmanian Atlantic salmon broodstock may be conditioned in flow‐through (FT) systems where water quality fluctuates and temperatures approach their upper limit of thermal tolerance, or in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) where conditions are comparatively cool and stable. The impact of broad conditioning approach on the molecular cargo of salmon eggs has never been explored in dynamic commercial settings. Therefore, this study aimed to characterise the reproductive features of broodstock conditioned using different commercial approaches and determine whether the fatty acid (FA) profiles of muscle, oocytes and eggs varied between groups during vitellogenesis and at stripping. The collective conditioning approach had a marked impact on the somatic and reproductive dynamics of female salmon broodstock, and the eggs produced by each group of fish were fundamentally different in terms of their FA composition. Of particular note is the increased maternal investment of saturated FAs (mg.g−1) and monounsaturated FAs (percent and mg.g−1) by FT‐based eggs, and the higher n3 polyunsaturated FA (percent and mg.g−1), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, percent and mg.g−1), arachidonic acid (ARA, percent), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, percent), n3:n6 ratio and ARA:EPA ratio of RAS‐based eggs. These metrics combined with the apparently higher prevalence of neural development and survival of RAS embryos suggest that RAS eggs were of higher quality. On the other hand, there is evidence to suggest that FT broodstock attempt to prepare their offspring for a (presumably) challenging early life environment by producing larger eggs that are proportionally rich in short‐chain FAs and contain a higher total quantity of FAs per egg.

Population dynamics and reproductive features of the Amazon River prawn Macrobrachium amazonicum (Heller, 1862) in Neotropical reservoirs under drought events

Here, we describe population and reproductive dynamics of four populations of Macrobrachium amazonicum in reservoirs during drought events. Additionally, we analyze possible phenotypic changes in this species promoted by fish predation. Two populations had a large-size phenotype (with large body proportions and morphotypes in males) while a small-size phenotype (with reduced sizes and no morphotypes) was found in the two other populations. Overall, females were larger than males and there were varying sex ratios among the four studied populations. All populations had bimodal or polymodal patterns in their monthly size-class frequency, suggesting a seasonal influence and a potentially great capacity of these populations to adapt to adverse environmental conditions. No major changes were found in the patterns of sex ratio, recruitment, frequency of (larger) male morphotypes and female ovarian development stages during drought events. Macrobrachium amazonicum is a resilient species and undergoes continuous reproduction. Females with immature ovaries were predominant in all populations, performing multiple spawns and exhibiting rapid ovarian development cycles. In males, the initial morphotype (TC - translucent claw) was predominant in populations with a social hierarchy. Males of dominant morphotypes (GC1 and GC2 - green claw 1 and 2) use more energy to carry out and maintain metabolic processes, which could probably one of the explanations why their number in populations are limited. We did not find any clear evidence that fish predation affected phenotypes, suggesting that phenotypic plasticity could be more related to intrinsic factors, which would have to be further investigated.

Obesity may impair response to ovarian stimulation. A retrospective observational study on oocyte quality.

Ovulatory dysfunction is more common in women with obesity. Body fat distribution is also crucial because anovulatory women have a greater waist circumference and more abdominal fat than ovulatory women of similar BMI. The primary aim of the present study is to determine whether there is a relationship between BMI and reproductive characteristics, including hormonal values, antral follicle count (AFC), endometrial assessment at transvaginal ultrasound evaluation (TVUS) during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS), and oocyte retrieval after Ovum Pick-Up (OPU). Data from a cohort of 183 patients were analyzed and divided into three groups based on weight status: normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Evaluated reproductive characteristics included: age, basal values of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-beta-estradiol (E2), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), antral-follicle-count (AFC), duration of COS, E2, and progesterone at the last monitoring, TVUS endometrial thickness at the last monitoring before OPU, FOI after OPU. Additionally, the number of meiosis II oocytes retrieved (MII), the total dose of FSH administered, the ratio between MII and total FSH administered, and OSI were registered. AMH levels were significantly lower in obese patients compared to normal weight and overweight women (1.05 IQR 1.20, 1.58 IQR 2.16, 1.32 IQR 1.38, respectively, p-value = 0.032). When looking at the MII/FSH ratio, the normal weight group showed a median value of 3.3 with an IQR of 4.0, the overweight group showed a median value of 2.3 with an IQR of 1.9, and the obese group had a median value of 2.6 with an IQR of 2.8. Those data were statistically significant (p-value = 0.049). These results emphasize the importance of considering weight status in fertility assessment and treatment planning.

Genetic Variations of (SOD2; Rs5746136) and (PON2; Rs705379) are Associated with the Risk Of PCOS and Influence Metabolic Profile Among the Iranian Population

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent disorders affecting women's metabolic, psychological, and reproductive features. This study investigated the roles of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2; rs5746136) and paraoxonase 2 (PON2; rs705379) gene polymorphisms on the risk of PCOS and oxidative stress and clinical indices in Iranian women. This cross-sectional study included 56 patients (female) with PCOS and 54 healthy women (control group), and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of rs5746136 and rs705379 were genotyped. The results showed that there were no detectable variations in frequency between PCOS and control groups in SOD2 genotypes and alleles (p&gt;0.05). Compared with controls, the frequency of rs705379-CC genotype was higher in PCOS individuals [adjusted OR (95%CI) = 2.171 (1.098-4.313), P=0.016], which showed a significant association. While the frequency of the TT genotype was higher in the reference group (OR= 0.464 (0.236-0.97), P=0.015). Patients with the A and C alleles exhibited considerably greater serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and LH/FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) than the control group. Our results revealed that the PON1 gene (C&gt;T) polymorphism is related to the risk of PCOS. However, the SOD2 gene (G&gt;A) polymorphism in our study population did not show any relation to PCOS. Importantly, oxidative stress parameters showed a significant relationship with PON1 rs705379-genotype.

Embryonic development of the world's smallest puffer fish, Carinotetraodon travancoricus - a threatened freshwater fish of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot.

The Malabar dwarf puffer, Carinotetraodon travancoricus is the smallest known pufferfish (family Tetraodontidae) and one of the smallest freshwater fishes of the Indian subcontinent. Due to their miniature size, wacky behaviour and appearance, they are much preferred in the international aquarium fish trade, although little is known regarding their breeding activity in captivity and their embryonic development. The purpose of this study was to fill these knowledge gaps. Wild-caught Malabar dwarf puffers were acclimatised to conditions, and pairs were introduced to breeding tanks. Adult fishes were fed with live and frozen diets including Artemia nauplii, moina and bloodworm. During spawning seasons, adult fish displayed elaborate courtship behaviour around sunset. Carinotetraodon travancoricus is a batch spawner releasing 1 to 5 eggs per diem. The eggs were spherical, and non-sticky, with a diameter of 1.48 ± 0.1 mm, and hatching took place after 108 to 116 h post-incubation. The newly hatched larvae were 3.5 ± 0.2 mm in length, and weighed 2.9 ± 0.4 mg. The early larvae have substantial yolk and oil globules as an energy reserve. Histological studies on mature females suggested the batch spawning nature of the species and low fecundity. Given its unique reproductive behaviour and characters, in situ protected habitats are required to ensure their continued survival in the wild, apart from encouraging captive breeding to augment the demand in the international aquarium fish trade.

Non-invasive methods characterise the world’s largest tiger shark aggregation in Fuvahmulah, Maldives

Tiger sharks are apex predators with a circumglobal tropical and warm-temperate distribution, with a general lack of population data for the central Indian Ocean. In Fuvahmulah, Maldives, tiger sharks display frequent use of the harbour area, attracted by discarded fish waste. Here, we document the population structure, residency, and reproductive characteristics of the world’s largest known tiger shark aggregation in a geographically-restricted area. Using non-invasive methods, photo identification and laser photogrammetry, we identified 239 individual tiger sharks over a 7-year study period. The aggregation was female-dominated (84.5%), with both large juveniles and adults present. Adult females were resighted over the entire study period displaying strong inter- and intra-annual site fidelity. Modelled residency using maximum likelihood methods suggests they spent 60.7 ± S.E. 7.5 days in Fuvahmulah, with a larger aggregation size, shorter residence periods and longer absence periods compared to juvenile females. Prolonged abdominal distensions of adult females indicate they likely stay near Fuvahmulah during gestation and reproduce biennially. Fuvahmulah seems to provide suitable conditions for gestation given the year-round provision of food and warm waters, exhibited by strong site fidelity and temporal residency. Our results show indications of a thriving population within the confines of protected waters.

Aspects of the reproductive biology of sympatric Myrtaceae: &lt;i&gt;Myrceugenia euosma&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Siphoneugena reitzii&lt;/i&gt; in southern Brazil

Background: The Myrtaceae family represents one of the most diverse groups in South America. Yet, there are few studies on their reproductive characteristics. Among the species with limited information on their reproductive behavior are Myrceugenia euosma (O. Berg) D. Legrand and Siphoneugena reitzii D. Legrand. Questions: What are the floral attractions and resources of M. euosma and S. reitzii for pollinators? Who are the pollinators of these species? What is the predominant reproductive system in both species? Studied species: M. euosma and S. reitzii, two sympatric Myrtaceae from southern Brazil. Study site and dates: Urubici, Painel, and Rio Rufino, Santa Catarina state, southern Brazil. November 2021 - February 2022. Methods: Information was obtained on morphological aspects, anthesis time, stigmatic viability, floral resources, structures attractive to visitors, olfactory testing, observation and identification of floral visitors, and reproductive system testing. Results: The flowers of M. euosma opens between 11 am and 17 pm (- 20 pm), with full opening occurring mostly at night; S. reitzii flowers open between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m., with a highest peak by 8 a.m. Flowers of both species have receptive stigmas until senescence. Pollen is the primary floral reward and the scent coming from the anthers combined with the floral display attract native bees and Apis mellifera, legitimate pollinators of both species. The lack of fruit development in the self-pollination tests support cross reproduction in both taxa. Conclusions: Both species exhibit traits consistent with melittophily syndrome and potential self-incompatibility. These results are essential for conservation efforts.

Latitudinal trends in an invasive plant: genetic differentiation, phenotypic plasticity, and the effects of heavy metals and herbivores on growth, defence, and reproductive characteristics

Abstract Background and Aims Invasive species usually demonstrate remarkable adaptability across diverse environments, successfully inhabiting a wide variety of regions. This adaptability often links to genetic differentiation and phenotypic plasticity, leading to latitudinal trends in phenotypic traits. In this study, we collected seeds of invasive plant Phytolacca americana from different latitudes and planted them in homogeneous gardens to investigate the latitudinal variation of P. americana phenotypic traits and to evaluate the effects of herbivory and heavy metals on plant growth, defence, and reproductive characteristics. Methods P. americana seeds from different latitudes were planted in a homogeneous garden. For the experimental treatment, the seeds were divided into four groups: a heavy metal treatment group and its corresponding control group, and a cover treatment group with its corresponding control group. After the fruits matured, their growth, reproduction, and defence indicators were measured. Key Results Significant latitudinal trends were observed in P. americana’s growth and defence characteristics, including changes in branch number, underground biomass, total biomass, and leaf tannin content. Compared to previous field surveys on P. americana, our study found that the latitude trends in growth structure and defence traits were consistent. But the latitudinal trend of reproductive structure is different. Moreover, heavy metals and herbivory substantially influenced the plant’s growth, reproduction, and defence mechanisms, further shaping its latitudinal patterns. Conclusions The observed phenotypic variations in P. americana across latitudes can be largely attributed to the synergistic effects of phenotypic plasticity and genetic variation. At a broader geographical scale, adaptations to heavy metal stress and herbivory pressure among different P. americana populations involve distinct trade-offs related to growth, reproduction, and defence strategies.

Nocturnal moth pollination in an alpine orchid, Platanthera tipuloides

AbstractPollination success of alpine plants is often restricted by low and unpredictable pollinator activity because of harsh and unstable weather conditions, where nocturnal pollination is rare. The alpine orchid, Platanthera tipuloides (Orchidaceae), has inconspicuous greenish yellow flowers with a sweet scent and a long spur that contains nectar. These floral traits are expected to be related to nocturnal moth pollination. To elucidate the pollination mode and reproductive characteristics of this species, we measured floral traits (spur length, nectar content in the spur, floral scent), documented flower visitors using camera traps, and quantified self‐compatibility and the degree of pollen limitation through controlled pollinations at two study plots in the Taisetsu Mountains, northern Japan. It was revealed that P. tipuloides is self‐incompatible and pollen limitation was absent at one of the study plots. The flowers emitted more volatile substances during the night, including lilac aldehyde isomers, which are known to attract moths. A nocturnal moth, Entephria amplicosta, was observed foraging nectar from the flowers, while no diurnal visitors were observed. The proboscis of E. amplicosta was shorter than the spur length, but it was long enough to access the accumulated nectar in the spurs. These results suggest that nocturnal pollination by moths is possible and can be efficient even in an alpine ecosystem with harsh environmental conditions.

Latent Profiles of Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Breast Cancer Patients of Reproductive Age and Associations With Reproductive Concerns.

To identify distinct profiles of fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) among breast cancer patients of reproductive age, investigate the relationship between these profiles and reproductive concerns and explore potential risk factors encompassing sociodemographic, clinical and reproductive characteristics. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2022 to September 2022. A convenience sample of 210 reproductive-aged breast cancer patients completed a questionnaire that included a general information section, the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FoP-Q-SF) and the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer Scale (RCAC). Latent profile analysis was conducted using the scores of the 12 items from the FoP-Q-SF as explicit variables, while univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were employed for statistical analysis. Three latent variables were identified: low FCR-stable group (27.6%), moderate FCR-uneasy group (17.2%) and high FCR-intense group (55.2%). This study found that FCR was predicted by age, education level, cancer stage, chemotherapy and fertility intention. Furthermore, patients with heightened reproductive concerns exhibited a higher likelihood of belonging to the high FCR-intense group. These findings indicate that FCR varies among breast cancer patients of reproductive age and demonstrates individual differences. Early identification of FCR patterns in patients is crucial for medical professionals, with particular attention given to those in the high-intensity FCR group. Tailored prevention and care strategies should be implemented based on the unique characteristics and influencing factors associated with different potential categories of FCR among patients of childbearing age with breast cancer. No patient or public contribution.

PSIII-1 The effects of maternal diet on ram lamb reproductive characteristics

Abstract Maternal nutrition during gestation and resulting impacts on ram reproduction and epigenetics are poorly understood. We previously reported altered mRNA and epigenetic markers in F1 ram sperm due to poor maternal diet (restricted- and over-feeding) during gestation, yet the multigenerational effects on ram reproduction are unexplored. We hypothesized that F2 offspring born from restricted- and over-fed granddams would exhibit altered reproductive characteristics, and F1 and F2 offspring would display altered circulating concentrations of reproductive hormones. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of poor maternal diet on 1) the reproductive function of F2 ram offspring, and 2) key reproductive hormones in F1 and F2 offspring. To evaluate these objectives, multiparous Dorset ewes (F0, n = 46) were fed 100% (CON), 60% (RES), or 140% (OVER) of National Research Council requirements from d 30 of gestation through parturition and a control diet during lactation. Offspring are identified as CON-F1 (n = 10 ewes; 12 rams), RES-F1 (n = 13 ewes; 21 rams), and OVER-F1 (n = 16 ewes; 15 rams). The F1 ewes (n = 37) were maintained on a control diet throughout and were bred between 16 and 19 mo of age to establish the F2 generation. Resulting male offspring are referred to as CON-F2 (n = 6 rams), RES-F2 (n = 13 rams), and OVER-F2 (n = 9 rams) in correspondence to the diets of the granddam. Semen samples of F2 rams were collected via electroejaculation at d 248.4 ± 0.36 (collection 1) and d 255.4 ± 0.36 (collection 2). Semen quality (volume, pH, sperm motility, and sperm concentration) was evaluated at both collections using mCASA; iSperm, Aidmics Biotechnology Co., LTD. Scrotal circumference was measured at collection 2. Sperm morphology was determined by contrast microscopy. Testosterone (T) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured in F1 and F2 serum samples collected at d 256 ± 0.13 using commercially available kits. Data were analyzed using R Studio with P ≤ 0.05 considered significant and 0.05 &amp;lt; P ≤ 0.10 considered a tendency. An effect of granddam diet was not observed for F2 ram semen volume, pH, sperm motility, sperm concentration, scrotal circumference, nor histological sperm morphology (P ≥ 0.25). An effect of F0 diet was not observed for F1 or F2 offspring serum concentrations of T and FSH (P ≥ 0.28). In our model, F0 diet during gestation did not affect F2 male offspring sperm quality or circulating T and FSH in F1 and F2 generations. However, based on our previous reports that F0 diet altered F1 sperm epigenome, there may be an impact of maternal diet on epigenetic inheritance which warrants further exploration.