Reproductive Characteristics Research Articles

Substitution of Chemical Fertilization using PGRs Evident in Growth and Yield of Tomato

The excessive utilization of synthetic fertilizers and chemicals poses a significant threat to both environment and human well-being. A pot experiment was done between December 2022 and April 2023 using a factorial randomized complete block design, which involved combining fertilizers and plant growth regulators (PGRs). The objective was to decrease the utilization of artificial fertilizers through the application of PGRs. The experiment involved applying fertilizers at 80, 90, 100 and 110% of the recommended doses. The recommended doses consist of 12 grams (g) of urea, 10 g of TSP, 5 g of MoP, 3 g of gypsum, 0.5 g of zinc sulphate, and 0.5 g of boric acid per plant. Furthermore, PGRs including gibberellic acid (GA3), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), 4-chlorophenoxy acetic acid (4-CPA), and salicylic acid (SA) were applied at a concentration of 50 ppm. The results showed that there were no significant differences in growth and yield-contributing features when the fertilizer dose was increased from 80% to 110% of the recommended amount. Nonetheless, there were significant differences compared to the control group. However, PGRs showed significant variability in the morphological and reproductive responses of tomatoes under the conditions being researched. The GA3 treatment resulted in significantly greater plant height, base diameter, number of branches and leaves per plant, canopy spread, and internode length. Moreover, GA3 at 50 ppm produced the highest number of flowers and fruits/plant, with a single fruit weighing 67.83 g and a total fruit production of 6.61 kg/plant of tomato. Among the other PGRs, salicylic acid showed statistical equivalence to GA3 treatment. Nonetheless, there was a notable decrease in both vegetative and reproductive features, including yield, when NAA and 4-CPA were used. The interaction between fertilizers and PGRs showed that combining GA3 and SA with any of the tested fertilizer rates resulted in statistically distinct and improved vegetative and reproductive responses. However, the combination of fertilizer with NAA and 4-CPA produced highly unsatisfactory outcomes. Therefore, GA3 at 50 ppm and SA at 50 ppm can effectively be employed as substitute of synthetic chemical fertilizers in tomato cultivation. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 6(1): 53-64, 2024

Fracture incidence in women: the impact of reproductive characteristics

BackgroundAlthough endogenous estrogen exposure, influenced by reproductive factors (RFs), is negatively associated with fracture risk, there is limited and conflicting information on the association between these factors and the incidence of fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the association between RFs and fracture incidence (FXI) separately.MethodsThis longitudinal study commenced in 1999 and concluded in 2021. It is performed on women without previous fractures and adjusted for confounders. RFs, including age at menarche, parity, abortion, duration of breastfeeding (BF), hormonal contraceptive use, and age at menopause, were exposure variables. The incidence of fractures was the primary outcome. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the associations between RFs and FXI outcomes.ResultsThe median (interquartile range) of follow-up time was 15.0 (12.1–17.0) years. A total of 19.9% (1324/6653)of the women were menopausal at baseline, and 13% (865/6653) of the remaining participants reached menopause at the end of follow-up. At the end of the follow-up, 222 (3.3%) participants had fractures. The mean age of participants at the initiation of the study and last follow-up were 35.8 (15.5) and 50.0 (15.3) years, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, the HR of FXI increased by 10% per one extra delivery (HR: 1.10,95% CI: (1.03, 1.18); p = 0.01), and by 12% per one-year increase in age at menarche (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: (1.02, 1.23); p = 0.02). The HR of FXI decreased by 3% per month extra exclusive BF (HR: 0.97,95% CI: (0.94, 0.99); p = 0.04).ConclusionsThe results elucidate that a longer duration of exclusive BF has a protective effect on FXI. In contrast, increasing age at menarche and the number of parities increase the risk of FXI.

Impact of Dietary Vitamin E and Selenium on Production Performance in Japanese Quail

The purpose of the current study was to study the impact of dietary supplementation of various levels of vitamin E and inorganic selenium (Sodium selenite) on daily egg weight, egg mass and egg production, accumulative egg per hen per week, final body weight gain for males, and feed conversion in both males and females of Japanese quail birds (Coturnix coturnix japonica). The study was conducted in the nutritional laboratory at the Veterinary Techniques Department/ Kalar Technical Institute /Garmian Polytechnic University in the Iraqi Kurdistan region for eight weeks from Apr 15 2021 to Jul 15 2021. In this study 128 birds (12 weeks old) were employed, they were raised in a cage system, measuring 50 width inches x 60 lengths inches × 60 height inches. Four supplemented dietary treatments from the experimental birds were designed as different levels of food regimens, and then each treatment was subdivided equally into eight replicated cages. The used experimental diets were: 0 = the basal diet (control) with no additions, T1 = 1.0-gram vitamin E and selenium mixture/kg diet, T2 = 1.5-gram vitamin E and selenium mixture/kg diet, T3 = 2-gram vitamin E and Selenium mixture/kg diet. As a result of this study, egg production (HD%/week), egg accumulation (eggs per hen per week), egg mass (gram per day), feed intake (gram per day), and feed conversion ratio (kilogram feed per kilogram egg) were altered significantly (P<0.01). Whereas, egg weight (g) and final body weight (g) for males were not significantly impacted (P>0.01). In conclusion, it was shown that vitamin E and sodium selenite were effective supplementary nutrients for enhancing the reproductive performance of Japanese quail hens, so it is recommended to use this diet in different poultry farms in order to increase some productive and reproductive features levels.

Whole-genome resequencing to investigate the genetic diversity and mechanisms of plateau adaptation in Tibetan sheep

IntroductionTibetan sheep, economically important animals on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, have diversified into numerous local breeds with unique characteristics through prolonged environmental adaptation and selective breeding. However, most current research focuses on one or two breeds, and lacks a comprehensive representation of the genetic diversity across multiple Tibetan sheep breeds. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the genetic structure, diversity and high-altitude adaptation of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds using whole-genome resequencing data.ResultsSix Tibetan sheep breeds were investigated in this study, and whole-genome resequencing data were used to investigate their genetic structure and population diversity. The results showed that the 6 Tibetan sheep breeds exhibited distinct separation in the phylogenetic tree; however, the levels of differentiation among the breeds were minimal, with extensive gene flow observed. Population structure analysis broadly categorized the 6 breeds into 3 distinct ecological types: plateau-type, valley-type and Euler-type. Analysis of unique single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and selective sweeps between Argali and Tibetan sheep revealed that Tibetan sheep domestication was associated primarily with sensory and signal transduction, nutrient absorption and metabolism, and growth and reproductive characteristics. Finally, comprehensive analysis of selective sweep and transcriptome data suggested that Tibetan sheep breeds inhabiting different altitudes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau adapt by enhancing cardiopulmonary function, regulating body fluid balance through renal reabsorption, and modifying nutrient digestion and absorption pathways.ConclusionIn this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of 6 Tibetan sheep breeds in Qinghai Province, China. Additionally, we analyzed the domestication traits and investigated the unique adaptation mechanisms residing varying altitudes in the plateau region of Tibetan sheep. This study provides valuable insights into the evolutionary processes of Tibetan sheep in extreme environments. These findings will also contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity and offer a foundation for Tibetan sheep diversity preservation and plateau animal environmental adaptation mechanisms.

Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) stocks in South American waters and its implications for fishery management

Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) is a highly prized resource in markets due to the quality of its meat. The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) implemented controls and regulations in response to the sharp rise in the illegal fishing of D. eleginoides in the 1990s. Today, four fisheries in waters close to the southern tip of South America are managed in accordance with stringent sustainability standards. Even though they are separate management units, both abundance assessments and annual catch allocations are conducted using different criteria regarding stock considerations across the region, leaving one of the fundamental premises of fisheries management unclear. This study examines historical data and recent research to explore the potential differentiation between Patagonian toothfish populations in South American waters, which is crucial for the management of diverse fisheries. Genetic studies, otolith microchemistry, morphometry, parasitic fauna, tagging programs, reproductive characteristics, and the impact of ocean circulation on dispersal and recruitment were analyzed. Tagging studies in the southern hemisphere oceans confirm the species’ affinity to specific habitats, suggesting minimal fish exchange between South American fishing grounds. From a fisheries perspective, this review suggests the existence of distinct stocks of the species structured along the shelf and slope of the southern cone of America based on reproduction areas along the continental shelves and slope, the diverse parasitic fauna, the variability in stable isotopes and trace elements of otoliths, and the little significant exchange of fish between current fishing grounds. All of this could lead to considering the D. eleginoides fishery as independent exploitation units.

Dietary supplementation with thyme oil improves the reproductive characteristics of Barki adult and prepubertal ewes

The reproductive technology has a significant impact on the development of livestock production. The thyme oil, rich in phytoestrogen chemicals like apigenin, has been found to enhance reproductive performance by mimicking estrogen’s action. This study aimed to investigate the effects of oral supplementation with thyme essential oil on the reproductive organ biometry, and reproductive performance in adult and prepubertal Barki ewes. Seventy ewes were treated with intravaginal sponges impregnated with 40 mg. medroxyprogesterone acetate for 14 days and simultaneously assigned randomly to two groups (20 adult and 15 prepubertal ewes per group), i.e., a control and a thyme oil treated (2.25 mg/kg body weight) group. The number of follicles, follicle diameter, corpora lutea diameter, and estrogen concentration were higher in the thyme oil-treated group than in the control group without comparing between adult ewes and prepubertal ewes. Additionally, the number and diameter of the large follicles were higher (P < 0.05) in the right-side ovary of adult ewes compared with that in prepubertal ewes at day 15. Moreover, thyme oil treatment resulted in higher conception (P < 0.01), lambing rates (P < 0.05), and fecundity (P < 0.01), with values 95.12, 136.73, and 130.25 compared with those in the control group, with values 63.51, 105.24, and 66.97, respectively, without comparing between adult ewes and prepubertal ewes. The adult ewes had a stronger estrus response and better fertility measurement values than prepubertal ewes. Additionally, the estrogen serum levels were positively correlated with the number (P < 0.05) and diameter (P < 0.01) of follicles, and the progesterone serum concentration was positively correlated with the corpora lutea diameter (P < 0.01), without treated group. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with thyme oil improved the follicular population and reproductive performance, which has a good effect on the adult and prepubertal ewes in the Barki ewes.

Population characteristics, seasonal distribution, and suppression potential of introduced Northern Pike in a Great Plains stream

AbstractObjectiveThe objectives of this study were to describe the population dynamics, reproductive characteristics, and movement of Northern Pike Esox lucius in the Niobrara River drainage of Wyoming. This information was used to estimate the necessary level of suppression to meaningfully reduce their abundance and thereby facilitate persistence of native nongame fishes.MethodsIn 2019 and 2020, Northern Pike were sampled to describe population size structure, age structure, growth, and mortality. An additional 42 gravid female Northern Pike were collected across 2020–2023 to determine a length–fecundity relationship. Vulnerability to recruitment overfishing was modeled with a static spawning potential ratio model. Finally, 15 mature fish were implanted with radio transmitters in 2021 and 2022 and tracked for 1 year to determine seasonal dispersal and spawning locations.ResultSampled Niobrara River drainage Northern Pike (n = 213) varied from 127 to 749 mm total length. Estimated ages of fish were between 0 and 8 years, and total annual mortality was estimated at 42% (95% confidence interval = 36–48%) in the presumed absence of fishing mortality. Recruitment was extremely stable, and growth was relatively fast through age 2. Some females matured at age 1, and all females were mature by age 2 and spawned annually. Estimated total fecundity for females between 297 and 914 mm total length varied from 3573 to 154,877 eggs. Most telemetered fish moved little throughout the year, but movements as large as 5.9 river kilometers were observed. Modeling suggests that exploitation of age‐1 and older Northern Pike should exceed 42% and exploitation of age‐2 and older fish should exceed 85% to meaningfully reduce the population's reproductive potential.ConclusionNorthern Pike growth and reproductive potential at older ages may be more limited in small prairie streams than within their native range. Observed annual home range was small, and spawning occurred annually in consistent locations. The necessary intensity of mechanical removal to achieve meaningful suppression in this system will likely require an intensive and ongoing interstate effort.

Comparative genome-wide association study of single- and multi-locus models with ontology analysis for enhancing Hanwoo cow reproductive traits.

The reproductive characteristics of Hanwoo play a significant role in farm profitability by decreasing the generation interval. This study analyzed 1015 primiparous and 916 multiparous cows using a genome-wide association study with both single-locus (GEMMA, GCTA) and multi-locus models (FarmCPU, BLINK). A significant marker for age at first service was identified across all methods. For age at first conception, GEMMA identified two markers, while FarmCPU and BLINK identified 14 and two markers, respectively. Regarding age at first calving, GEMMA identified two markers, and FarmCPU and BLINK found 15 and two markers, respectively. In multiparous cows, except for days open, one marker for gestation length and two markers for calving interval were identified in the multi-locus models (FarmCPU and BLINK). Additionally, one marker for the number of services per conception was identified using GEMMA. Key candidate genes included PLCB1 (maintaining pregnancy), MUC1 (fetal development), and ADCY5 (associated with fetal birth), while TXNL1 regulates embryo implantation timing. Gene ontology functions associated with embryo implantation and placental regulation were also confirmed (GO:0046875). Although the multi-locus models identified a greater number of markers and candidate genes, there was no overlap with the results from the single-locus models. The multi-locus models showed enhanced detection power, but slight inflation in test statistics (λ values) necessitates cautious interpretation to avoid false positives. Thus, a combination of both models is recommended to improve reproductive efficiency in cows, providing valuable insights into the genetic aspects of reproductive traits.

Assessment of Genetic Diversity Using Morphological and Molecular Characteristics of Indonesian Zoysiagrass Genotypes

Zoysiagrass is warm-season turfgrass thriving in tropical regions. Despite the adaptive nature, the existence of Indonesian zoysiagrass as well as morphological and genetic characteristics are not available. Therefore, this study aimed to explore Indonesian zoysiagrass from western and eastern parts of the country, as well as its morphological and molecular characteristics. Morphological characteristics was conducted to measure vegetative and reproductive characters while genotyping was performed using 15 simple sequence repeat markers. Morphological characteristics cluster three major groups, namely Group 1 corresponded to short, shorter, and fine leaves. Group 2 corresponded to tall, longer, and fine leaves, fewer seeds, and short spikelet, while Group 3 corresponded to tall, long, and wider leaves, more seeds, and longer spikelet. The results showed that the expected heterozygosity (He = 0.256) was lower than homozygosity (Ho = 0.341). The high level of discriminating capacity, polymorphism, and informativeness of SSR marker was observed (Effective Multiplex Ratio = 4.20, Marker Index = 2.394, and Resolving Power = 1.574). Additionally, population structure generated two subpopulations. Group 1 corresponded to Z. japonica from Sumatera Island and mixed province while Group 2 corresponded to Z. japonica from Central Java and Bali with Z. japonica and Z. matrella from mixed province. In conclusion, the exploration of morphological and genetic diversity from Indonesian zoysiagrass provided useful insight for conservation and future breeding improvement.

Complicated grief following the perinatal loss: a systematic review

BackgroundPerinatal loss is a severe stressor that usually triggers distressing symptoms of acute grief. Moreover, acute grief can worsen with time and become a chronic debilitating state known as complicated grief. However, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews on this topic. This systematic review aims to synthesize the existing literature on complicated grief following the perinatal loss.MethodsWe systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, ProQuest, and Web of Science to identify articles on complicated grief symptoms and influencing factors following perinatal loss. We performed a comprehensive, structured evaluation in full compliance with PRISMA guidelines.ResultsA systematic search produced 1163 results. Of these, 38 articles met the full-text screening criteria, and 10 pieces of literature met the inclusion criteria. Individuals may experience complicated grief following perinatal loss, manifesting in symptoms such as emotional reactions, physical responses, and social impairments. Furthermore, based on existing evidence, influencing factors include demographic characteristics, reproductive characteristics, marital relationships, social support, and coping strategies.ConclusionsComplicated grief following perinatal loss is easily overlooked and has not been adequately studied. Further empirical research is needed to explore the symptoms and factors influencing this condition. A better understanding of complicated grief will help develop and optimize care strategies, informing future clinical practice and improving psychological support for individuals affected by perinatal loss.Trial registrationPROSPERO registration number: CRD42023473510.

Improving the Dehydroepiandrosterone Induced PCOS Rat Model: Interplay of Age, High Fat Diet, and Treatment Regimen on Reproductive and Metabolic Phenotypes.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a ubiquitous reproductive condition with triggering hallmarks such as glucose intolerance, hyperandrogenism, and dyslipidemia. Despite the existence of various PCOS animal models, an ideal model which could encompass all PCOS-specific phenotype is of dire need. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) induced PCOS rats are frequently employed; though, determining the superior model among pubertal and prepubertal rats, incorporation of high fat diet (HFD), and their sustainability remains uncertain. This study aims to examine the age factor, impact of HFD, and DHEA regimen in model development. Prepubertal and pubertal Sprague-Dawley rats were subcutaneously injected with DHEA (6mg/kg and 60mg/kg/day, respectively) with and without HFD up to 21days. Serum testosterone, glucose, lipid profile, ovary morphology, and estrous cycle were evaluated. Following 21days of treatment with DHEA, pubertal PCOS rats exhibited better reproductive phenotype than prepubertal rats. However, there was no significant difference in the lipid profile. Accordingly, both the age-group rats were concomitantly treated with DHEA and HFD for additional 3weeks on alternate day basis after model development. The persistence of reproductive and metabolic features on treatment withdrawal were also simultaneously investigated by alienating the rats into continuous and stop dosing groups. The DHEA + HFD and DHEA treated pubertal rats in continuous dosing group showed significant PCOS features (p < 0.05) compared to stop dosing, prepubertal, and control groups. To conclude, continual dosing with DHEA on alternate days for 3weeks is necessary to sustain metabolic and reproductive phenotypes of PCOS.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIESBRADYBAENA PLECTOTROPIS LIVING IN THE VICINITY OF THE NARYN RIVER

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the terrestrial malacofauna in the Naryn River region, with a specific focus on Bradybaena plectotropis in Grigorievskoe Gorge, Kyrgyzstan, to enhance understanding of its ecological roles and biological features. Methods: Field surveys and anatomical analyses were conducted in August 2024, covering diverse biotopes across Grigorievskoe Gorge and Boom Gorge. Forty specimens were collected, documented, and examined for morphological and reproductive characteristics to determine ecological preferences and habitat distribution. Results: The study identified Bradybaena plectotropis as a dominant species in the region, demonstrating significant morphological adaptations and ecological versatility. Its roles in soil formation, organic matter decomposition, and trophic chains underscore its ecological importance. Additionally, its presence across varied biotopes highlights its adaptability and widespread distribution. Novelty: This research provides the first comprehensive faunistic and anatomical study of Bradybaena plectotropis in the Naryn River region, offering valuable insights into its taxonomy, ecological roles, and conservation relevance in Kyrgyzstan's mountainous ecosystem.

The potential role of the Mediterranean Diet for the treatment and management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a review of the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical evidence.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder amongst reproductive-aged women associated with cardiometabolic, reproductive and psychological abnormalities. Lifestyle modification, including a healthy diet, is considered first-line treatment for management of clinical symptoms. However, there is limited high-quality evidence to support one superior therapeutic dietary intervention for PCOS management that is beyond general population-based dietary guidelines. Adherence to a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been shown to decrease cardiometabolic disease risk and attenuate depressive symptoms, particularly in patients with metabolic perturbations. This narrative review summarises the proposed biological mechanisms underpinning the potential therapeutic benefits of a MedDiet for the management of cardiometabolic, reproductive and psychological features related to PCOS. Observational evidence suggests an inverse relationship between MedDiet adherence and PCOS features, particularly insulin resistance and hyperandrogenemia. Although the exact mechanisms are complex and multifaceted, they are likely related to the anti-inflammatory potential of the dietary pattern. These mechanisms are underpinned by anti-inflammatory bioactive constituents present in the MedDiet, including carotenoids, polyphenols, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Synthesis of the available literature suggests the MedDiet could be a promising therapeutic dietary intervention to attenuate short and long-term symptoms associated with PCOS and may aid in reducing the longer-term risks associated with cardiometabolic diseases and reproductive and psychological dysfunction. Nevertheless, current evidence remains insufficient to inform clinical practice and well-designed clinical trials are needed. As such, we provide recommendations for the design and delivery of future MedDiet interventions in women with PCOS, including exploring the acceptability, and feasibility to enhance adherence.

Analysis of BRCA1 Exon 2 Mutations in FFPE Tissues of Bangladeshi Bangali Females with Breast Cancer

Background: Among all breast cancers, 5 to 10% are hereditary and related to mutation of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene. To date, extensive researches have been carried out for detection of mutations in the exon2 of BRCA1 gene. Genetic study on these two genes from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue in Bangladeshi population has not been reported so far. Objective: To identify mutation in exon2 of BRCA1 gene from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue of adult Bangladeshi Bangali female patients with breast cancer. Methods: The research was cross-sectional descriptive type of study. The study was conducted on Adult Bangladeshi Bangali female patients with breast cancer aged more than 18 years. A questionnaire was developed to record information on socio-demographic and reproductive characteristics. The data was analyzed by SPSS (Statistical package for the social sciences) version 23.0. The whole sequence of exon2 of chromosome 17 was amplified by short range PCR using the Gotaq master mix and primer sequence. The amplicons were confirmed by 2% agarose gel electrophoresis and sequencing was done by Sanger sequencer. Data analysis was performed using Chromas® software version 2.33 and Mega 7 software. The quary sequences were compared with the NCBI database. Results: Average age of the breast cancer patients was 45.46 (± 11.52) and the mean age at menarche was 12.46 (± 0.646). In this study, new mutations along with known mutations were found in exon2 of BRCA1 gene of eight adult female breast cancer patients. The mutations are insertions (C&gt;A, C&gt;T, T&gt;A, G&gt;T, G&gt;C, T&gt;C, A&gt;T, C&gt;G), deletion (C_) and single nucleotide substitution (T-C, G-A, T-G, C-G, T-A, G-C, C-A) in types. Conclusions: The aim of the research was to identify mutation in exon2 of BRCA1 gene. Eight patients have mutation in their DNA sequence revealed from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue. Further studies are required to evaluate whether these mutation contribute to breast cancer or not. Identification of known mutation along with new mutation with this small sample size emphasizes the importance of exploration the genetic makeup of Bangladeshi population to develop a database for proper screening and genetic counseling of the disease.

Reproductive and Flight Characteristics of Lymantria xylina (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) in Fuzhou, China.

The biological characteristics of Lymantria xylina Swinhoe (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), a moth that threatens coastal forests in Fuzhou, China, are closely linked to its spread risk. To characterize these traits, we primarily investigated emergence, reproductive, and flight behaviors. Our findings show that females typically emerge, mate, and copulate during specific times of day. The peak hours of emergence, courtship, and copulation are 13:00-14:00, 19:00-21:00, and around 0:00, respectively. The starting time of oviposition was concentrated before dawn and during the daytime. They preferentially lay eggs on columnar objects, including artificial ones. On average, females laid 361 eggs, lived for 4.5 days, and weighed 0.74 g. Non-ovipositing females were observed to fly for short distances, especially during the evening. Field observations suggest that these females can potentially travel up to 184.5 m in total and 34.5 m continuously. While this indicates a theoretical risk of long-distance dispersal, our findings suggest that the overall risk is limited. These results contribute to our understanding of the biology and dispersal potential of L. xylina.

Sociodemographic and Health-Related Risk Factors Associated With Planned and Emergency Cesarean Births in Mexico.

Cesarean delivery is a contributing factor to many delivery care and postpartum maternal morbidities, especially when a cesarean delivery is unnecessary. Mexico has one of the highest cesarean birth rates in Latin America, and as such, our objective was to identify the sociodemographic, reproductive, maternal care, and health-related characteristics associated with the prevalence of planned and emergency cesarean births in Mexico. Using nationally representative data from a Mexican probabilistic survey (ENSANUT 2021), we examined and developed a cross-sectional analysis of women aged 12 to 19 with a live-birth and women 20 to 49 years who had their last live-birth within five years before the survey (n = 1330). We used multinomial logistic regression analysis to examine predictors associated with planned and emergency cesarean births. The live-births within our sample included 50.7% vaginal, 27.5% emergency cesarean births, and 21.8% planned cesarean births. Younger age groups at delivery, speaking an indigenous language, and receiving delivery care at open public services are negatively associated with having any cesarean birth. Receiving delivery care at private institutions and having hypertension during pregnancy increases the odds of having both planned and emergency cesarean births. Emergency cesarean births are positively associated with tertiary education and negatively correlated with the parity of three or more children, while planned cesarean births are more likely for women with a parity of two. Efforts to reduce unnecessary cesarean births should include evidence-based medicine recommendations, actions to avoid the first cesarean birth, and providing pregnant women with counseling to support informed decisions.

Is it beneficial to be a city dweller? Impact of urban conditions on red fox reproduction

AbstractVarious species inhabit cities around the world, and numerous changes in their biology can be observed. Among them, changes in the time of reproduction or productivity are often recorded in urban populations. Firstly, we compared selected reproductive features (i.e., litter size and time of breeding) of two red fox (Vulpes vulpes) populations, one living in the city of Warsaw and the other inhabiting a forest‐field mosaic in Central Poland. Secondly, we investigated fox reproductive and social behaviour in an extensive camera trap study in Warsaw (2018–2021). By means of generalized linear mixed effects models, we identified which factors (fox social group size, share of natural food, and level of urbanization, created by using principal components analysis for habitat and landscape variables) affected the reproduction and/or social group size of urban foxes. We found that urban foxes started breeding about 2 weeks earlier than their rural counterparts and produced bigger litters (3.98 vs. 3.48 cubs). Opposite to rural foxes where only pairs of adult foxes were reported, in the urban population, social groups were observed with a mean number of 2.37 individuals. Interestingly, none of the studied factors affected group size or litter size in urban foxes, while breeding time was influenced by the level of urbanization and share of natural food. Earlier reproduction in urban areas is fairly frequently observed and may be attributed to altered environmental conditions in urban habitats, while higher productivity is probably a consequence of higher food availability.

Morphological, ecological and genetic characteristics of the sandy sculpin (&lt;i&gt;Leocottus kesslerii&lt;/i&gt;, Cottidae) from the lakes Baikal, Arakhlei and Gusinoe, Transbaikalia

Studies on local forms of the Sandy sculpin, Leocottus kesslerii, in the lakes Baikal, Arakhlei and Gusinoye show that the differences between lake forms in terms of external morphology lie in the head length to width ratio. In the Baikal form, the head is wider than long, vs the opposite in both Apakhlei and Gusinoe forms. In the Baikal and Gusinoe forms, there is a gap between the dorsal fins, a gap being absent from the Arakhlei form and the dorsal fins are in touch with each other. In the Arakhlei form, the anal fin is long (37.4–43%, on average 39.3% SL). In the Baikal form, the length of the A base reaches 32.9% SL (29.0–34.5%). In the Baikal and Arakhlei forms, small and sparse bone prickles are present on the body, these being large and dense in the Gusinoe form. The differences identified show a low level of morphological isolation of the forms. More significant differences are established in ecological features: growth rate, food spectrum, reproductive characteristics, and fecundity values. The differences in ecological features are due to the adaptation of the Sandy sculpin forms to specific conditions of the lakes they inhabit. Studies on genetic differentiation were carried out using the control region (CR) of mtDNA. The study forms of the Sandy sculpin revealed weak genetic isolation. The p-distances between the L. kesslerii forms averaged from 0.33 ± 0.12 to 0.51 ± 0.24%. Such low values of genetic distances clearly lie within the limits of intraspecific variability. The data obtained on the morphological, ecological and genetic differentiation of lake forms of the Sandy sculpin show that fish from the lakes Baikal, Arakhlei and Gusinoe belong to the same nominative subspecies, Leocottus kesslerii kesslerii.

Productive and morphological features of females and calves of domestic deer of the Evenk and Nenets breeds during the calving period

Purpose: to conduct a comparative description of the productive and morphological characteristics of domestic reindeer of the Nenets and Evenki breeds.Materials and methods. Study of the morphological, behavioral and reproductive characteristics of domestic reindeer of the Nenets and Evenki breeds, kept in various natural and climatic conditions of the tundra and northern taiga, during the calving and dairy periods. Experimental data were collected from clinically healthy animals. The research was carried out in accordance with the basic methods of zootechnical research (observation, examination). Their gender (visually) and age were determined (using ear tags and animal registration data, and, if necessary, based on the degree of tooth wear); An assessment of the exterior of the reindeer herd was carried out before the rut to select males and females for mating. Methods of visual assessment, linear measurements of animals, and field chronometry of calving were used.Results. The Evenki breed of deer is distinguished by its large size, height, high load-carrying capacity and endurance when transporting goods and people. It has been established that the dynamics of calving of domestic reindeer of the Evenki breed is identical to the dynamics of calving of Nenets reindeer, but there are some peculiarities. In the tundra zone, calving takes 3—5 days longer, and the initial phase begins (on average) 7-10 days earlier than in the taiga zone. The live weight of Evenki breed calves at birth is 0.8 kg higher than that of Nenets breed calves. The intensity of growth up to 3 months of age is higher in the early, mass and late periods of calving. It has been established that calves of the early calving period exceed in live weight at birth and its growth the calves of the mass period, and those, in turn, exceed the calves of the late calving period. This pattern can be traced up to 6 months of age. Calves of early and mass calving periods, having the potential for rapid growth, find themselves in more favorable nutritional conditions in the first months of life than late calves. This is expressed in the ability to receive green pasture food 15-25 days earlier and be stronger by the time the blood-sucking dipterous insects appear. Early calving Nenets calves are more active at night, since there is still a lot of snow in the tundra zone during this period and the temperature sometimes drops below 0ºC.

The impact of enhanced early postnatal nutrition on the histomorphological features of the ovaries in fat-tailed Sanjabi ewe lambs.

This study aimed to investigate whether providing additional ad libitum feeding could improve reproductive characteristics in prepubertal ewe lambs. Twelve Sanjabi ewe lambs, approximately one-month-old and with an average initial weight of 11.6 ± 1.3kg, were monitored over a 3-month period, which was divided into three distinct periods of 30 days each. The first period spanned from the lambs' age of one to two months, the second period covered their age range of two to three months, and the third period encompassed their age range of three to four months. The lambs were randomly assigned to either a control group (C) or a treatment group (T). The control group received a basal diet consisting of hay and milk, whereas the treatment group received an enhanced diet comprising hay, milk, and concentrate. Live weight (LW) and average daily gain (ADG) were measured weekly, and blood samples were collected from the jugular vein at days 30, 60, and 90 of the experiment to determine the concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2). Following the 90-day experiment, the lambs were humanely euthanized in accordance with established protocols. Subsequently, both ovaries from each animal were removed, weighed and subjected to a comprehensive histological analysis. The ovaries underwent fixation, embedding, and sectioning procedures, followed by staining with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) to facilitate microscopic examination. Ovary microscopic sections from both C and T groups were examined to assess follicles at various developmental stages, including primordial follicle number (PreFN) and diameter (PriFD), primary follicle number (PriFN) and diameter (PriFD), secondary follicle number (SFN) and diameter (SFD), antral follicle number (AFN) and diameter (AFD), and granulosa layer thickness of secondary (GLTSF) and antral follicles (GLTAF). The impact of diet and three experimental periods on ADG and LW exhibited significant variations. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in LW in the T group compared to the T group, with noticeable differences in LW fluctuations observed during distinct periods. However, ADG was more prominent in the initial and second observation periods than in the third. The impact of diet and experimental periods on P4 and E2 concentrations was found to be negligible. The T group showed significant improvements (P < 0.05) in PreFD, PriFN, and GLTAF compared to the C group. This study suggests that ad libitum concentrate feeding may promote reproductive characteristics in prepubertal ewe lambs. Further research is needed to explore its potential impact on the age of puberty.